bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Transaction Prices to Re-Examine Price Dispersion in Electronic Markets
Authors: Ghose Anindya , Yao Yuliang
Published: February 2010

Price dispersion is an important indicator of market efficiency. Internet-based electronic markets have the potential to reduce transaction and search costs, thereby creating more efficient, “frictionless” markets, as predicted by theories in information economics. However, earlier work has reported significant levels of price dispersion on the Internet, which is in contrast to theoretical predictions. A key feature of the existing stream of work has been its use of posted prices to estimate price dispersion. In theory, this can lead to an overestimation of price dispersion because a sale may not have occurred at the posted price. In this research, we use a unique data set of actual transaction prices collected from both the electronic and offline markets of buyers in a business-to-business market to evaluate the extent of price dispersion. We find that price dispersion in the electronic market is as low as 0.22%, which is substantially less than that reported in the existing literature. This near-zero price dispersion suggests that in some electronic markets the “law of one price” can prevail when we consider transaction prices, instead of posted prices. We further develop a theoretical framework that identifies several new drivers of price dispersion using transaction data. In particular, we focus on four product-level and market-level attributes—product cost, order cycle time, own price elasticity, and transaction quantity, and we estimate their impact on price dispersion. We also examine the electronic market's moderating role in the relationship between these drivers and price dispersion. Finally, we estimate the efficiency gains that accrue from transactions in the relatively friction-free market and find that the electronic market can enhance consumer surplus by as much as $97.92 million per year.
The Trap of Continual Ownership Change in International Equity Joint Ventures
Authors: Chung Chris Changwha , Beamish Paul W.
Published: February 2010

This article examines how multiple ownership changes unfold in international equity joint venture (IEJV) evolution and how such repeated changes impact short-term performance and long-term survival. By theorizing a new concept—the trap of continual change—in the IEJV context, we challenge the adaptive viewpoint assumed in alliance dynamics research. We propose that partners sometimes respond to an initial dissatisfaction with the venture result with a dysfunctional repetition of rearranging the ownership control structure. This continual change locks the organization into bad choices and sends it into a downward spiral. Acknowledging the mixed motive nature of inter-partner relationships, we incorporate cooperative versus competitive dynamics manifested in shared control arrangements. We propose that shared ownership control lends stability to the IEJV until the initial IEJV agreement is renegotiated; this stability is a result of the cooperative forces of mutual interdependence and mutual forbearance between the partners. However, when the power balance breaks down, the potential for inter-partner conflict increases. When the ownership control structure of the IEJV is restructured, especially multiple times, shared control arrangements become increasingly unstable as behavioral, cultural, and managerial differences are amplified.
Organizational Learning and Interfirm Control: The Effects of Partner Search and Prior Exchange Experiences
Authors: Dekker Henri C. , Van den Abbeele Alexandra
Published: February 2010

Partner search processes and prior exchange experiences constitute important organizational learning processes that provide firms with valuable partner information, which may enhance their ability to design control structures for new interfirm transactions. By increasing trust and by providing first-hand partner information, prior experiences may, however, also reduce the need for control and for new information during the search process. An analysis of 287 transactions between buyers and suppliers of information technology supports that partner search and experience facilitate learning and subsequent control design, but that partner experience simultaneously reduces the need for control and the intensity of the partner search process. Our findings thus indicate that partner experience can have opposite and offsetting effects on control design, which contributes to the discussion on whether prior exchange experiences complement or substitute formal control.
Plain Dextrose 5% in Water or Hypotonic Saline Solutions Could Result in Acute Hyponatremia and Death in Healthy Children; Investigate and Clarify Requests for Missing Doses; Provera, Prozac, or Proscar?
Authors: Cohen Michael R. , Smetzer Judy L.
Published: February 2010

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them at your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) Medication Errors Reporting Program. Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.

Errors, close calls, or hazardous conditions may be reported directly to ISMP through the ISMP Web site ( www.ismp.org ), by calling 800-FAIL-SAFE, or via e-mail at ismpinfo@ismp.org . ISMP guarantees the confidentiality and security of the information received and respects reporters' wishes as to the level of detail included in publications.
BEACOPP(escalated) Regimen for Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Solimando Dominic A. , Waddell J. Aubrey
Published: February 2010

The complexity of cancer chemotherapy requires pharmacists be familiar with the complicated regimens and highly toxic agents used. This column reviews various issues related to preparing, dispensing, and administering antineoplastic therapy and to the agents, commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.
A Practical Approach for Conversion to Insulin Pens in a Health System
Authors: Pisupati Radhika , Kornblit Susan , Sobel Mitch , Cairoli Michael
Published: February 2010

Although patient-specific insulin pens offer advantages over insulin vials, institutions converting to patient-specific pen use must plan for common practical problems and errors encountered during and after conversion. Conversion considerations include staff education, storage, handling, technique issues, policy development, and continuous quality improvement.
The STanding Orders Protocol (STOP): A Pharmacy Driven Pneumococcal and Influenza Vaccination Program
Authors: Veltri Keith T. , Ferguson-Myrthil Nadia , Currie Brian
Published: February 2010

Purpose

A Medical Board-approved pharmacy-based inpatient STanding Orders Protocol (STOP) for influenza and pneumococcal vaccination was designed and implemented at Montefiore Medical Center in response to federal and state regulations put in place in 2006. This vaccination program aims to improve historically poor vaccination rates in a complex, urban patient population. Developing this initiative in a large health care system with high turnover and a diverse (many non-English speaking) population represented a formidable challenge.

Methods

In 2006 the institution initiated a program to improve patient care. The program involved a clinical pharmacist rounding on patient care units specifically to encourage the acceptance of the pneumococcal and influenza vaccine in patients at least 65 years of age at 1 of the 2 campus sites in the Bronx, New York. Medical residents were also employed to facilitate the pharmacist and achieve national standards. Registered nurses and licensed practical nurses are authorized to administer standing orders for vaccines and anaphylaxis treatment agents as needed under this protocol without direct physician examination. Vaccine information sheets (VIS) and gender- and ethnicity-specific patient teaching aids provide statistical information regarding disease and mortality rates. Language barriers are reduced by providing VIS in both Spanish and English, and telephone translation in most languages are utilized when necessary. Documentation of refusal of, previously received, or a newly ordered vaccination is placed in the patient's chart and in the central database.

Discussion

Prior to the STOP program, the total in-hospital vaccination encounter rates according to various Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) audits was approximately 18% for pneumococcal and 27% for influenza vaccinations, respectively. The institution's current encounter rates have dramatically increased to more than 85% for pneumococcal and 55% for influenza vaccine.

Conclusion

The cooperative efforts of physicians, pharmacists, and nursing staff have led to the creation of a successful inpatient-based vaccine standing orders protocol. As a result, in 2007 the institution approved a second clinical pharmacist to allow for coverage at both of Montefiore's hospital sites. The hospital's goal is to ultimately decrease pneumococcal disease and its severity, increase and maintain the highest vaccination rates in New York City, and comply with national standards. The implication for decreasing morbidity and readmission of patients is promising. Future plans include the development of an ambulatory-based program with a similar design model.
Clinical Surveillance: Another Tool in the Pharmacist's Armamentarium
Authors: Fox Brent I. , Felkey Bill G.
Published: February 2010

This month we discuss a type of software tool to support the pharmacist's efforts to ensure safe and efficacious medication therapy. The tool utilizes data within separate components of an individual hospital's information system, pulling the data together to compare it to a set of criteria. The criteria can be designed to look for medication-related problems and opportunities, as defined by the user. Appropriate action can be taken based on patient-specific needs.
An Innovative Solution to Pharmacy Department Information Sharing
Authors: Eberts Matthew W. , Mark Scott M. , Weber Robert J.
Published: February 2010

The Director's Forum series is written and edited by Michael Sanborn and Robert Weber and is designed for guiding pharmacy leaders in establishing patient-centered services in hospitals and health systems. Another specific goal of this column is addressing many of the key challenges that pharmacy directors currently face, while also providing information that will foster growth in pharmacy leadership and patient safety. Previous articles in this series have discussed the many different aspects of pharmacy management and leadership challenges. This feature addresses an innovative solution to pharmacy department information sharing.
Vaccine with 2 Components; Kapidex and Casodex Confusion; Valtrex(Valacyclovir) and Valcyte (Valganciclovir) Confusion
Authors: Cohen Michael R. , Smetzer Judy L.
Published: February 2010

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them at your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) Medication Errors Reporting Program. Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.

Errors, close calls, or hazardous conditions may be reported directly to ISMP through the ISMP Web site ( www.ismp.org ), by calling 800-FAIL-SAFE, or via e-mail at ismpinfo@ismp.org . ISMP guarantees the confidentiality and security of the information received and respects reporters' wishes as to the level of detail included in publications.
Cerebral Angioedema Associated with Enalapril; Trastuzumab-Associated Cardiomyopathy; Risperidone-Induced Hyperamylasemia, Hyperlipasemia, and Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome; DVT Associated with Oral Contraceptive Drospirenone/Ethinyl Estradiol; Autoimmune Hepatitis Associated with Long-Term Minocycline Use in Adolescents; Herpes Simplex Encephalitis during Treatment with TNF-alpha Inhibitors; Review: Fluoroquinolones and Dysglycemia; Review: Anticholinergic Drugs and Elderly Patients
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: February 2010

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), discuss methods of prevention, and promote reporting of ADRs to the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) MEDWATCH program (800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting, preventable ADR to MEDWATCH, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Smoothing the Path for Intravenous (IV) to Oral (PO) Conversion: Where Have We Come in 11 Years?
Authors: Banko Heidi , Goldwater Shannon H. , Adams Erin
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The objectives of this study were to determine how many hospitals have active programs for converting patients from intravenous (IV) to oral (PO) therapy and obtain details of their conversion policies and documented cost savings and clinical impact from the IV to PO programs. In addition, the perceived benefits of these types of pharmacy programs will be highlighted.

Methods

Surveys were sent via e-mail to approximately 7,905 pharmacy managers and clinical pharmacists throughout the United States, which were obtained from American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) and American College of Clinical Pharmacy (ACCP) by working through various list-serves that target this group of practitioners. The survey questioned participants regarding their hospital's policies for IV to PO conversion programs, including demographics, criteria, process, medications involved in the switches, clinical outcomes, and cost savings of such programs.

Results

Of 276 surveys completed and returned, 42% of responders were from the south; 81% had an active IV to PO program (larger hospital systems were more likely to have a program in existence for a longer period of time); and 82% identified patients via a computer-generated list of target patients and drugs for pharmacists to intervene. The majority of medications involved in IV to PO switches included antibiotics, GI, and antifungal drug classes. Fifty-four percent of responders indicated pharmacy manpower was the largest barrier to implementation and continuation of IV to PO conversion programs. Sixty-seven percent of responders documented cost savings and 47% of the 81 facilities that specified savings had saved at least $50,000 annually.

Conclusion

There was no change in the percent of facilities with IV to PO conversion programs (81%). There were minimal differences in the types of medications involved in conversion programs between 1996 and 2007. The policy and procedures supporting these type of programs have become more defined in the 11 years between surveys. In addition, methods of conversions have become more automatic since the first survey. Financial impact of IV to PO conversion programs were documented in both surveys.
Tolvaptan
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri L. , Baker Danial E.
Published: February 2010

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive 5 to 6 well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing inservices. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation (DUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent in print and are also available online. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. Subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The November 2009 monograph topics are telavancin, pitavastatin, asenapine, colchicine, and indacaterol. The DUE is on telavancin.
Components of the Basal Lamina and Dystrophin–Dystroglycan Complex in the Neurointermediate Lobe of Rat Pituitary Gland: Different Localizations of β-Dystroglycan, Dystrobrevins, α1-Syntrophin, and Aquaporin-4
Authors: Pócsai Károly , Bagyura Zsolt , Kálmán Mihály
Published: February 2010

The so-called neurointermediate lobe is composed of the intermediate and neural lobes of the pituitary. The present immunohistochemical study investigated components of the basal lamina (laminin, agrin, and perlecan), the dystrophin–dystroglycan complex (dystrophin, β-dystroglycan, α1-dystrobrevin, β-dystrobrevin, utrophin, and α1-syntrophin), and the aquaporins (aquaporin-4 and −9). Glia markers (GFAP, S100, and glutamine synthetase) and components of connective tissue (collagen type I and fibronectin) were also labeled. In the neurohypophysis, immunostaining of basal lamina delineated meningeal invaginations. In these invaginations, vessels were seen to penetrate the organ without submerging into its parenchyma. On the parenchymal side of the invaginations, β-dystroglycan was detected, whereas utrophin was detected in the walls of vessels. Immunostaining of α1-dystrobrevin and α1-syntrophin did not delineate the vessels. The cells of the intermediate lobe were fully immunoreactive to α1-dystrobrevin and α1-syntrophin, whereas components of the basal lamina delineated the contours of the cells. GFAP-immunoreactive processes surrounded them. Aquaporin-4 localized at the periphery of the neurohypophysis, mainly adjacent to the intermediate lobe but not along the vessels. It colocalized only partially with GFAP and not at all with α1-syntrophin. Aquaporin-9 was not detected. These results emphasize the possibility that the components of the dystrophin–dystroglycan complex localize differently and raise the question about the roles of dystrobrevins, α1-syntrophin, and aquaporin-4 in the functions of the intermediate and neural lobes, respectively.
Development of an Ultrasound-emitting Device for Performing Rapid Immunostaining Procedures
Authors: Hatta Hideki , Tsuneyama Koichi , Kondo Takashi , Takano Yasuo
Published: February 2010

Although intraoperative rapid diagnosis is conventionally performed using hematoxylin–eosin (HE)-stained specimens, the use of additional special staining, together with immunostaining techniques, has been examined in recent years to improve diagnostic accuracy. In intraoperative rapid diagnosis, immunostaining should be completed within 7–10 min, because the pathologist is typically presented with an HE-stained specimen within the same time period. We hypothesized that ultrasound may enhance antigen–antibody reactions and reduce the number of immunostaining steps. To clarify the ability of ultrasound to support immunostaining, we first created an ultrasonic generator specifically for immunostaining. Next, we explored the optimal conditions for immunostaining of formalin-fixed specimens to examine the utility of the ultrasonic generator. Finally, we tried immunostaining with the ultrasonic generator using frozen specimens to simulate intraoperative rapid diagnosis. We report herein that ultrasound enables immunostaining of frozen specimens in ×10 min.
Quantitative and Qualitative Alterations of Heparan Sulfate in Fibrogenic Liver Diseases and Hepatocellular Cancer
Authors: Tátrai Péter , Egedi Krisztina , Somorácz Áron , van Kuppevelt Toin H. , Dam Gerdy ten , Lyon Malcolm , Deakin Jon A. , Kiss András , Schaff Zsuzsa , Kovalszky Ilona
Published: February 2010

Heparan sulfate (HS), duetoits abilitytointeract with a multitude of HS-binding factors, is involved in a variety of physiological and pathological processes. Remarkably diverse fine structure of HS, shaped by non-exhaustive enzymatic modifications, influences the interaction of HS with its partners. Here we characterized the HS profile of normal human and rat liver, as well as alterations of HS related to liver fibrogenesis and carcinogenesis, by using sulfation-specific antibodies. The HS immunopattern was compared with the immunolocalization of selected HS proteoglycans. HS samples from normal liver and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) were subjected to disaccharide analysis. Expression changes of nine HS-modifying enzymes in human fibrogenic diseases and HCC were measured by quantitative RT-PCR. Increased abundance and altered immunolocalization of HS was paralleled by elevated mRNA levels of HS-modifying enzymes in the diseased liver. The strong immunoreactivity of the normal liver for 3- O-sulfated epitope further increased with disease, along with upregulation of 3-OST-1. Modest 6- O-undersulfation of HCC HS is probably explained by Sulf overexpression. Our results may prompt further investigation of the role of highly 3- O-sulfated and partially 6- O-desulfated HS in pathological processes such as hepatitis virus entry and aberrant growth factor signaling in fibrogenic liver diseases and HCC.
Localization of Thy-1–positive Cells in the Perichondrium During Endochondral Ossification
Authors: Nakamura Hiroaki , Yukita Akira , Ninomiya Tadashi , Hosoya Akihiro , Hiraga Toru , Ozawa Hidehiro
Published: February 2010

We elucidated the localization of Thy-1–positive cells in the perichondrium of fetal rat limb bones to clarify the distribution of osteogenic cells in the process of endochondral ossification. We also examined the formation of calcified bone-like matrices by isolated perichondrial cells in vitro. At embryonic day (E) 15.5, when the cartilage primodia were formed, immunoreactivity for Thy-1 was detected in cells of the perichondrium adjacent to the zone of hypertrophic chondrocytes. At E17.5, when the bone collar formation and the vascular invasion were initiated, fibroblast-like cells at the sites of vascular invasion, as well as in the perichondrium, showed Thy-1 labeling. Double immunostaining for Thy-1 and osterix revealed that Thy-1 was not expressed in the osterix-positive osteoblasts. Electron microscopic analysis revealed that Thy-1–positive cells in the zone of hypertrophic chondrocytes came in contact with blood vessels. Perichondrial cells isolated from limb bones showed alkaline phosphatase activity and formed calcified bone-like matrices after 4 weeks in osteogenic medium. RT-PCR demonstrated that Thy-1 expression decreased as calcified nodules formed. Conversely, the expression of osteogenic marker genes Runx2, osterix, and osteocalcin increased. These results indicate that Thy-1 is a good marker for characterizing osteoprogenitor cells.
Problematizing a fundamentalist ideology: A close analysis of Atef Hetata's The Closed Doors and Phil Mullaly's The Martyrs of Uganda
Authors: Mushengyezi Aaron
Published: February 2010

This paper discusses Atef Hetata's The Closed Doors and Phil Mullaly's The Martyrs of Uganda and the ways in which they problematize a fundamentalist vision. Through close reading and analysis of the language, cinematographic and mise en scne elements in these films,
the paper examines the cineastes' portrayal of the dilemmas and dangers posed when extremist religious dogma conflicts with the socio-economic and political realities and contradictions in society. The paper raises questions about the course of action human beings choose in pursuit of extremist
agendas today in a world where tolerance for diversity and multiculturalism has become part and parcel of a new global culture.
Music and narrative in five films by Ousmane Sembne
Authors: Diop Samba
Published: February 2010

Diop's article focuses on music in Ousmane Sembne's films as an integral part of film narrative. The author first describes the traditional instruments of Senegal and their usage, and proceeds to analysing the mood they create in Sembne's first three socio-realist films (Borom sarret,
La noire de/Black Girl, Mandabi). As a narrative counterpoint to traditional instruments, piano dance music mostly indicts the colonial ideology and its aftermath after independence. This study also illustrates Sembne's well-known concern for egalitarianism among the various ethnic groups
of Senegal. Diop extends his study to Sembne's changing and experimental concept of sound as a narrative device. He analyses the meaning of vocals (with their translation), the sounds of the environment as well as silence in Emita; and in Sembne's more recent films, he interprets the use of
popular stars heard over the radio as a sign of the democratization of the enjoyment of music.
Book Review
Authors: Kerr David
Published: February 2010

Pierre Barrot (ed.), 2008, Nollywood: The Video Phenomenon in Nigeria
Oxford, Ibadan, Bloomington & Indianapolis, James Currey, Heinemann Educational Books Nigeria and Indiana University Press, pp. 176, ISBN: 9781847015044, Paperback, 14.99
Opportunities of Web 2.0: Potentials of learning
Authors: Paus-Hasebrink Ingrid , Wijnen Christine W , Jadin Tanja
Published: February 2010

Starting with the empirical evidence regarding young people's attitudes towards the Internet with focus on the social web in the every day lives of adolescents, the article discusses what successful learning can be like. Furthermore, an Austrian pilot study on learning with Web 2.0
encompassing nine schools is outlined. In this project children worked together on a school-embracing wiki on Austrian national parks. Through the evaluation of the project, which included questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions in class, different aspects of successful project-based
learning as well as relevant aspects on Internet safety were investigated. In doing this, weaknesses in pupils' Internet usage on the one hand as well as ways of raising children's awareness of safer Internet use through project-based learning with wikis on the other were discovered.
Towards the liberalisation of labour markets in Europe
Authors: Oliveira Lusa , Carvalho Helena
Published: February 2010

One of the objectives of this article is to understand to what extent precarious employment is disseminated in European Union (EU) countries and to analyse if it is a conjuncture phenomenon or if it represents a structural reconfiguration of the labour markets. This analysis was carried
out by comparing three generations in different periods of time. We used statistical information about precarious employment and comparisons within and between EU countries (Eurostat 1985; 1995; 2005) over the past 20 years, using a multidimensional method: principal components analysis for
categorical data. We concluded that the labour markets in Europe are showing a structural change in the direction of defining a new salary relation, which we have termed neo-competitive. All the countries are moving towards a greater liberalisation of the employment relationship, through easier
dismissal processes, or by the expansion of precarious employment or a combination of both.
From BBC radio personality to online audience personae: the relevance of fan studies to Terry Wogan and the TOGs
Authors: Hills Matt
Published: February 2010

This article suggests that radio studies and fan studies can, and should, be encouraged into meaningful dialogue. It argues that there is a general reason for this, to address the notable absence of work in the field on radio fandom, and a specific media-technological reason; the role of media convergence in making a wider range of fans more culturally visible, and ever more important to media industries, radio included. It takes Sir Terry Wogan (STW) and the unofficial online community of Terry's Old Gals or Geezers (TOGs) as its case study, partly because BBC Radio 2 and its audiences have been academically under-represented in favour of work on cool or cultural networks such as R1 and R4. This piece argues that www.togs.org can be analysed as a site for off-brand sociability with listeners rarely referring to Sir Terry Wogan orWake up to Wogan, sometimes even playfully denying knowledge of them. However, following developments in fan studies, it is argued that an emphasis on symbolic performances of self, rather than on explicit textual interpretations, can demonstrate how TOGs self-reflectively draw on value systems embedded inWake up to Woganand the text of Terry Wogan as a radio personality. TOGs distance themselves from the label of fandom as a resistance both to negative stereotypes and to the branding strategies the textual overflow of media convergence.
Rapid methods for extracting high-quality DNA from shell-boring “Conchocelis”
Authors: Wang Jinfeng , Jiang Peng , Zhou Wei , Cui Yulin , Qin Song
Published: February 2010

The genome DNA required for molecular studies of Porphyra has generally been extracted from either blades or free-living “Conchocelis”. However, the main disadvantages are complicated procedures, high cost, and DNA contamination. In this study, we developed a strategy for pure DNA extraction from shell-boring “Conchocelis” and a single-step technique to prepare PCR templates. The results show that contamination of free-living “Conchocelis” with microalgae was eliminated after the filaments had bored into shells. The electrophoretic banding patterns and intensities were similar between materials obtained from free-living “Conchocelis” and shell-boring “Conchocelis”, suggesting that total DNA extraction from the latter was efficient. Molecular evidence demonstrated additional bands in PCR products of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) amplifications prepared from cultures of free-living “Conchocelis” contaminated with microalgae. The additional bands appeared in all three Porphyra yezoensis replicates and one out of three Porphyra haitanensis replicates, but were not detectable in preparations from shell-boring “Conchocelis”. The DNA extracted from shell-boring “Conchocelis” reduced the risk of microalgal contamination and the single-step technique reduced the time required for the preparation of DNA for molecular studies of Porphyra. The single-step method should be useful for PCR amplification of small amounts of materials, large sample sizes, or samples contaminated with microalgae. The technique may also be suitable for other genera of Bangiaceae, providing that shell-boring “Conchocelis” stages are present in their life cycles.
Coexistence of Ulva rigida and Ulva laetevirens (Ulvales, Chlorophyta) in Venice Lagoon and other Italian transitional and marine environments
Authors: Sfriso Adriano
Published: February 2010

There is confusion about the identity of laminar Ulva thalli in Italian and Mediterranean transitional systems and on the open coasts. Although some authors report the presence of both U. rigida and U. laetevirens, systematic revisions for the Adriatic and Mediterranean Seas recognise only the presence of U. laetevirens. This paper uses anatomical and environmental analyses to provide evidence for the presence of both species. The only diagnostic character that distinguishes the two is cell shape in cross section of rhizoidal and basal regions. Therefore, identification of floating thalli in these regions is not possible. The species grow and coexist in the same environments and on the same substrata, but analysis of environmental data suggests that U. rigida occurs preferentially in eutrophic environments, especially lagoon areas rich in phosphate, ammonium and phytoplankton, whereas U. laetevirens is more abundant in areas where nutrient levels are low.
Suicidal Behaviors in Surviving Monozygotic and Dizygotic Co‐Twins: Is the Nature of the Co‐Twin's Cause of Death a Factor?
Authors: Segal Nancy L.
Published: February 2010

Genetically informative samples can address hereditary and experiential influences on suicide‐related behaviors. The frequency of suicide‐related behaviors was compared in twins from two survivor groups: (1) those whose co‐twins' deaths were suicides (monozygotic [MZ]: n = 47; dizygotic [DZ]: n = 31), and (2) those whose co‐twins' deaths were nonsuicides (MZ: n = 347; DZ: n = 170). The frequency of suicide attempts among suicide survivors was significantly higher in MZ than DZ twins, while the frequency of suicide attempts among nonsuicide twin survivors did not differ between MZ and DZ twins. Twin concordance for suicide attempts more likely reflects a genetic predisposition than a behavioral reaction to the loss.
Thoughts of Death and Suicide in Early Adolescence
Authors: Stoep Ann Vander , McCauley Elizabeth , Flynn Cynthia , Stone Andrea
Published: February 2010

The prevalence and persistence of thoughts of death and suicide during early adolescence were estimated in a community‐based cohort. A latent class approach was used to identify distinct subgroups based on endorsements to depression items administered repeatedly over 24 months. Two classes emerged, with 75% in a low ideation class across four assessments. Less than 2% persisted in the high ideation class over three or more assessments. African American and Asian American adolescents were more likely than European Americans to belong to the high ideation class. No members of the low ideation class endorsed “thought about killing myself,” while “thoughts of death and dying” was endorsed by members of both classes. Implications for interpreting meanings of death and suicide ideation in early adolescence are discussed.
What Does Psychological Autopsy Study Tell Us About Charcoal Burning Suicide—A New and Contagious Method in Asia?
Authors: Chan Sandra S.M. , Chiu Helen F.K. , Chen Eric Y.H. , Chan Wincy S.C. , Wong Paul W.C. , Chan Cecilia L.W. , Law Y. W. , Yip Paul S.F.
Published: February 2010

Charcoal burning suicides in Hong Kong between 2002–2004 in the 15 to 59‐year‐old age group were investigated using the psychological autopsy method. The psychopathological profiles of charcoal burning suicides (N = 53) were compared against “other suicides” (N = 97). The two groups did not differ significantly in the prevalence of DSM‐IV axis I diagnoses with the exception of schizophrenic spectrum disorder which was less frequently associated with charcoal burning suicides. Score on “neuroticism” in the NEO‐five Factor Inventory (NEO‐FFI) was significantly higher in victims of charcoal burning suicide. There was also a trend toward higher score on “conscientiousness” in the NEO‐FFI among charcoal burners than victims of other suicide.
Nonfatal Suicidal Behavior Among Chinese Women Who Have Been Physically Abused by Their Male Intimate Partners
Authors: Wong Susan P.Y. , Phillips Michael R.
Published: February 2010

Three hundred fifty‐three women (median age = 32 years) admitted to the emergency rooms of nine general hospitals serving rural areas in China were interviewed for nonfatal suicidal behavior. Spousal conflict was the most commonly reported cause for their suicidal behavior and one third of respondents reported being victims of physical abuse by their spouses. Compared to non‐abused women, abused women were younger, had more disturbed family relationships, and experienced less financial hardship and more divorce. No differences were found between the groups in the proportion who reported psychiatric symptoms or in the level of suicidal intent; however, abused women were less impulsive and expressed more sadness at not having been successful in ending their lives.
Questionnaire-Based Case Finding of Celiac Disease in a Population of 8- to 9-Year-Old Children
Authors: Toftedal Peter , Hansen Dorte Gilså , Nielsen Christian , Lillevang Søren Thue , Hansen Tine Plato , Husby Steffen
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE:

Antibody screenings and diagnosis of celiac disease (CD) among children with type 1 diabetes have suggested that a considerable proportion of children with CD may, in fact, have preclinical (undiagnosed) symptoms. We aimed to test if a questionnaire would lead to significant case finding in an unselected population of 8- to 9-year-old children.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

The study population included 9880 children aged 8 to 9 years. Before the study, 13 children from the study population were known to have CD. We developed a questionnaire on the basis of 5 simple items suggestive of CD and mailed the questionnaire to the families of all children in the study population who resided in the County of Funen, Denmark. In total, 7029 respondents returned the questionnaire (70%); among them, 2835 children had 1 or more symptoms. These children were invited for a blood test to determine their human serum immunoglobulin A (IgA) anti–tissue transglutaminase antibody (anti-tTG) levels.

RESULTS:

Of the 1720 children who were tested for the human serum IgA anti-tTG, 24 participants had a positive result (range: 20 to >150 U). Seventeen of these children underwent an upper endoscopy procedure. Fourteen children had histologic signs of CD (Marsh classification stage III). Fourteen children met the diagnostic criteria for CD. The prevalence proportion of patients who were newly diagnosed with CD was 0.14% (95% CI: 0.08–0.24) (14 of 9967), and the estimate of the minimum total prevalence proportion of children with CD was 0.27% (95% CI: 0.18–0.39) (27 of 9980). The maximal prevalence proportion of patients with newly diagnosed CD was 1.22% (95% CI: 0.76–1.90) (21 of 1720), including those participants who had a positive anti-tTG result but not a final diagnosis of CD. The ratio of known to minimally symptomatic CD was ∼1:1.

CONCLUSION:

A number of preclinical and low-grade symptomatic patients with CD may be identified by their responses to a mailed questionnaire.
The Course of Inattention and Hyperactivity/Impulsivity Symptoms After Foster Placement
Authors: Linares L. Oriana , Li MinMin , Shrout Patrick E. , Ramirez-Gaite Marta , Hope Stephanie , Albert Andrea , Castellanos Francisco Xavier
Published: February 2010

BACKGROUND:

It is largely unknown whether symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity of foster children decline over time after placement and what the role of the quality and stability of the foster placement is on the course of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptom trajectories. Longitudinal studies of normative trajectories of symptom types in nonreferred children may assist in appropriately diagnosing ADHD and designing the clinical treatment for foster children.

OBJECTIVE:

We described average level and slope of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms over time and examined parental (biological and foster) warmth and hostility and placement stability (number of foster-home moves and discharge from care) as reported by 3 informants (biological parent, foster parent, and classroom teacher) after considering maltreatment risks (child age, gender, sibling ADHD, and comorbidity) and use of ADHD medication.

METHODS:

We studied 252 maltreated children in 95 families during 4 yearly waves, beginning shortly after placement; children were assessed whether they remained in or were discharged from foster care.

RESULTS:

Average level of inattention declined according to the biological parent, whereas hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms declined according to both biological and foster parents. Higher inattention was associated with lower parental warmth (foster parent), higher parental hostility (biological, foster, and teacher), and discharge from care (biological parent). Higher hyperactivity was also associated with lower parental warmth (foster parent) and higher parental hostility (biological and foster parent), higher (average) number of foster-home moves, and discharge from care (biological report). Higher teacher-derived hyperactivity symptoms were associated with a history of child abuse (versus neglect); however, abused children showed a steeper decline of hyperactivity over time than those with neglect histories. Unexpected interactions were found for the impact over time of parental (foster) warmth and number of foster-home moves.

CONCLUSION:

Findings point to the clinical usefulness of attending to the parenting quality and placement stability as malleable factors affecting symptom reduction subsequent to placement.
Association Between Parents' and Children's Use of Oral Health Services
Authors: Isong Inyang A. , Zuckerman Katharine E. , Rao Sowmya R. , Kuhlthau Karen A. , Winickoff Jonathan P. , Perrin James M.
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE:

Several parental factors influence children's use of oral health services. Some localized studies have shown that children's dental use patterns correlate positively with those of their parents. The objective of this study was to investigate associations between parents' and children's oral health–seeking behaviors among a representative sample of US children.

METHODS:

We used the 2007 National Health Interview Survey to analyze a sample of children aged 2 to 17 years, matched with 1 parent. Using logistic regression, we examined associations between parents' and children's use of dental services and deferred dental care because of cost.

RESULTS:

The sample included 6107 child–parent pairs. Overall, 77% of children and 64% of parents had a dental visit in the previous 12 months. Adjusting for sociodemographic and use variables, children were more likely to have a dental visit when their parents also had a dental visit (adjusted odds ratio: 3.36 [95% confidence interval: 2.71–4.18]), compared with children of parents who did not have a dental visit. In addition, compared with children of parents who did not defer seeking dental care, children of parents who deferred their dental care because of cost were more likely to have care deferred because of cost as well (adjusted odds ratio: 12.47 [95% confidence interval: 9.09–17.11]).

CONCLUSIONS:

Parental oral health–seeking behaviors for themselves may have an important effect on oral health–seeking behaviors on behalf of their children, regardless of the child's insurance status. Comprehensive strategies to eliminate barriers that target parents and not just children may help to address children's underuse of oral health services.
Locus of control and contraceptive knowledge, attitude and practice among university students
Authors: Alves Aline Salheb , Lopes Maria Helena Baena de Moraes
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship between locus of control and knowledge, attitude and practice regarding pill and condom use among university students. METHODS: The inquiry was developed in Campinas, a city in Southeastern Brazil, in 2006. A total of 295 adolescent newcomers to a public university answered a structured questionnaire and Levenson's multidimensional locus of control scale. The scores of the dimensions of locus of control were calculated and Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to assess their correlation with knowledge and practice concerning pill and condom use. In order to assess the relationship between the dimensions of locus of control and sociodemographic variables and variables related to the individuals' sex life, Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used. RESULTS: Male adolescents had higher scores of powerful others externality when compared to female adolescents (p=0.01). Students living alone had lower internality (p=0.01). When locus of control was compared to condom use in the first intercourse, considering only the 102 students who informed the age of the beginning of sexual activity, greater internality was found among male adolescents who did not use condoms (p<0.05). When the locus of control scores were correlated with contraceptive knowledge and practice, it was found that the higher the powerful others externality locus, the lower the adequate use of contraceptive methods (r = -0.22, p=0.03). CONCLUSIONS: The powerful others externality locus influences the practice of contraceptive use in this group of adolescents.
Violência entre parceiros íntimos e consumo de álcool
Authors: Zaleski Marcos , Pinsky Ilana , Laranjeira Ronaldo , Ramisetty-Mikler Suhasini , Caetano Raul
Published: February 2010

OBJETIVO: Estimar a prevalência de violência por parceiros íntimos e o consumo de álcool durante os eventos dessa violência. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com amostra probabilística de múltiplos estágios, representativa da população brasileira, composta por amostra de 1.445 homens e mulheres casados ou vivendo em união estável, entrevistados entre novembro de 2005 e abril de 2006. As entrevistas foram realizadas na casa dos entrevistados, usando um questionário fechado padronizado. As taxas de prevalência de violência por parceiros foram estimadas e testes qui-quadrado foram empregados para avaliar as diferenças de gênero nessa prevalência. RESULTADOS: Homens apresentaram uma prevalência geral de 10,7% de episódios de violência por parceiros e as mulheres 14,6%. Homens consumiram álcool em 38,1% dos casos de e as mulheres em 9,2%. Com relação à percepção de consumo de álcool pela companheira, homens informaram que sua parceira consumia em 30,8% dos episódios de violência e mulheres que o seu parceiro fazia ingestão de álcool em 44,6% dos episódios. CONCLUSÕES: As mulheres se envolveram em mais episódios de (perpetração, vitimização ou ambos) leves e graves do que os homens. A freqüência quatro vezes maior de relatos de homens alcoolizados durante os eventos permitem supor que a prevenção à violência por parceiros possa se beneficiar de políticas públicas de redução do consumo de álcool.
Resultado do teste rápido anti-HIV após o parto: uma ameaça à amamentação ao nascimento
Authors: Oliveira Maria Inês Couto de , Silva Kátia Silveira da , Gomes Junior Saint Clair , Fonseca Vânia Matos
Published: February 2010

OBJETIVO: Analisar fatores associados à não-amamentação na primeira hora de vida, sobretudo a influência do momento do resultado do teste rápido anti-HIV. MÉTODOS: Estudo de coorte, sendo o ponto inicial a submissão ao teste rápido e o final a primeira mamada do bebê. A população estudada incluiu 944 parturientes submetidas ao teste rápido anti-HIV, com resultado negativo, em 2006, nos cinco hospitais amigos da criança do Sistema de Gestação de Alto Risco no município do Rio de Janeiro, RJ. Entrevistadoras treinadas obtiveram dados do laboratório e do prontuário e no pós-parto aplicaram questionário para entrevista às mães. O modelo multinível foi adotado para analisar a influência de características sociodemográficas, de assistência pré-natal e ao parto sobre a não-amamentação na primeira hora de vida. RESULTADOS: Dentre as participantes, apenas 15,6% receberam seu resultado antes do parto, 30,8% depois do parto e 53,6% ainda desconheciam o resultado ao ser entrevistada. A prevalência de não-amamentação na primeira hora de vida foi de 52,5% (IC 95%: 49,3;55,8). Após ajuste, o recebimento do resultado do teste rápido após o parto dobrou o risco da não-amamentação na primeira hora de vida (RR=2,06; IC 95%: 1,55;2,75). Outros fatores de risco foram: cor não branca, renda materna de um salário mínimo ou menos, parto cesáreo, mãe não querer amamentar o bebê ao nascimento e mãe referir que a equipe hospitalar não a escutava. O desconhecimento da realização do teste rápido anti-HIV pela mãe se mostrou como fator de proteção. CONCLUSÕES: O principal fator de risco para a não-amamentação na primeira hora de vida foi o recebimento do resultado do teste rápido após o parto. O teste anti-HIV deve ser amplamente disponibilizado no pré-natal e o teste rápido deve ser realizado sob indicação, na admissão, com busca ativa e pronta comunicação do resultado à mulher.