bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher complication risk of totally implantable venous access port systems in patients with advanced cancer – a single institution retrospective analysis
Authors: Chang Yi-Fang , Lo An-Chi , Tsai Chung-Hsin , Lee Pei-Yi , Sun Shen , Chang Te-Hsin , Chen Chien-Chuan , Chang Yuan-Shin , Chen Jen-Ruei
Published: December 2011

Background:

Totally implantable port systems are generally recommended for prolonged central venous access in diverse settings, but their risk of complications remains unclear for patients with advanced cancer.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to assess the risk of port system failure in patients with advanced cancer.

Design:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study in a comprehensive cancer centre.

Setting/participants:

A detailed chart review was conducted among 566 patients with 573 ports inserted during January–June, 2009 (average 345.3 catheter-days). Cox regression analysis was applied to evaluate factors during insertion and early maintenance that could lead to premature removal of the port systems due to infection or occlusion.

Results:

Port system-related infection was significantly associated with receiving palliative care immediately after implantation (hazard ratio, HR = 7.3, 95% confidence interval, 95% CI = 1.2–46.0), after adjusting for probable confounders. Primary cancer site also impacted the occurrence of device-related infection. Receiving oncologic/palliative care (HR = 3.0, P = 0.064), advanced cancer stage (HR = 6.5, P = 0.077) and body surface area above 1.71 m2 (HR = 3.4, P = 0.029) increased the risk of port system occlusion.

Conclusions:

Our study indicates that totally implantable port systems yield a higher risk of complications in terminally ill patients. Further investigation should be carefully conducted to compare outcomes of various central venous access devices in patients with advanced cancer and to develop preventive strategies against catheter failure.
Transition Services for Young Children With Disabilities
Authors: Rous Beth S. , Hallam Rena A.
Published: December 2011

The study of transition process for young children with disabilities and their families is complex. This complexity is reflected in efforts by researchers and policy makers to understand the phenomenon and determine ways to improve the transition experiences and outcomes of young children with disabilities and their families. This article synthesizes the literature from early childhood special education as well as general early childhood in an effort to exemplify the current understanding of transition processes and practices. Future directions for more integrated approaches to transition research, policy, and practice are presented.
Rebel Manhood
Authors: Eastman Jason T.
Published: December 2011

Southern men occupy a contradictory place in U.S. culture as the rest of the country stereotypes them as backwards and deviant, yet simultaneously celebrates Southern males as quintessential exemplars of American manhood. I explore this contradiction using interviews with musicians, participant observation of concerts, and an ethnographic content analysis of contemporary Southern rock lyrics and websites. I find marginalized men embrace a Southern rebel identity to meet hegemonic masculine ideals shared across social classes and geographic regions. Rebels reject the middle class roles and cultural capital most men use to signify their manhood by accruing authority and resources through education, career, and family. Instead, southern rebels empower the masculine self by protesting authority figures, dominating women and signifying their independence by drinking, using drugs, and brawling. While rebels define their selves in contrast to middle-class morals and practices, dismissing them as deviant and backward overlooks how rebels use the symbolic resources they have at their disposal to meet the hegemonic masculine ideals celebrated throughout the country.
Victim Age-Based Subtypes of Juveniles Adjudicated for Sexual Offenses
Authors: Fanniff Amanda M. , Kolko David J.
Published: December 2011

Adolescents adjudicated for sexual offenses are a heterogeneous group. The identification of more homogeneous subgroups of offenders may enable improved treatment, as the specific risks and needs presented by each group could be more effectively targeted. The current study examines three subgroups derived based on the age of victim(s), a popular method of subtyping that has mixed empirical support, using a sample of 176 males adjudicated for a sexual offense and court-ordered to participate in a community-based collaborative intervention program that integrates treatment and probationary services. Differences expected between groups based on theories regarding victim-age based subtypes are examined, in addition to differences consistently identified in prior research. Results indicate that these three subgroups are more similar than different, although some expected differences were found. Juveniles with child victims were more likely to have male victims and biologically related victims. Juveniles with peer/adult victims were more likely to have poor monitoring by their parents and more likely to have been arrested again. Juveniles with mixed types of victims appeared similar to juveniles with child victims on some variables and similar to those with peer/adult victims on others. Treatment implications and future directions for research are discussed. Typologies based on clinical characteristics of the youth rather than offense characteristics may have more promise for identifying meaningful subgroups.
On wrinkling of a sandwich panel with a compliant core and self-equilibrated loads
Authors: Frostig Y.
Published: December 2011

The nonlinear response of a unidirectional sandwich panel that is associated with wrinkling of the face sheets, due to a self-equilibrated loading scheme is presented. This loading scheme may be a results of a manufacturing process where the core is tensioned first and the sandwich panel is formed through bonding of the face sheets to the tensioned core while wrinkling occurs as a result of the release of the tensile force of the core, i.e. similar to the manufacturing of electroactive polymers (EAPs) [Wantanaba et al. (2002)] or due to prestressing of the core which is associated with the pre-strain the edge of the core only. These self-equilibrated loads yield compression in the face sheets as well as in the core which may be associated with loss of stability as a result of overall buckling of the entire panel or wrinkling of the face sheets. Thus, for such loading scheme the longitudinal rigidity of the core must be considered although it is small as compared with that of the face sheets. The governing equations along with the appropriate boundary conditions are derived through the introduction of longitudinal normal stresses in the core along with high-order distribution functions for the displacements through its depth. The mathematical formulation is based on variational principles along with moderate type of deformations for the kinematic relations. The results of the various structural quantities in the form of curves along the panel, equilibrium curves and deformed shapes for a particular sandwich panel are presented. The study discusses the effects of the transfer of the compressive load from the core to the face sheets, either directly through an edge beam or without it. Conclusions are drawn and presented.
Influence of a quadratic power take-off on the behaviour of a self-contained inertial referenced wave energy converter
Authors: Bailey Helen , Bryden Ian G
Published: December 2011

This paper describes a non-linear power take-off system within a buoyant heaving wave energy converter. The power take-off uses the relative velocity between the main structure of the wave energy converter and an inertial referenced mass contained within its outer envelope. The power take-off consists of a linear spring and a quadratic damper. In this paper the mathematical principles behind a working time domain simulation of a non-linear power take-off as applied to a relative motion inertial referenced wave energy converter are presented. The principles could, however, be applied to any differential motion system. The resulting numerical simulation is used to investigate the performance of a representative system in irregular waves, and the methodology necessary to determine optimal power extraction is discussed and applied. ‘Optimisation’ of the power take-off parameters is discussed with respect to limiting the overall relative motion and large accelerations, as indicators of the expected lifetime and the maintenance requirements of the wave energy converter.
The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme after 30 years: A critical inquiry
Authors: Bunnell Tristan
Published: November 2011

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (MYP) was first created in 1980. This article charts its historical origins and growth. It offers a critical overview of the operation of the MYP revealing both its geographical distribution disparities and the current picture in terms of external moderation of student work. There are several emerging themes of concern. The exact role of the MYP within the IB ‘continuum’ can be questioned, while the MYP is a complex programme in terms of its philosophy and structure, and remains a little researched and seemingly little understood curriculum.
Performativity in School Management and Leadership in Botswana
Authors: Pansiri Nkobi Owen
Published: December 2011

The thesis of this article is that the uncritical adoption of Western models of education management and leadership policies results in poor performance in schools in disadvantaged communities in developing countries. The argument shows that this has led to the institutionalization of generic education policies that are not contingent to the circumstances of the small, dispersed, rural and remote schools. In my analysis, I agree with the growing concern in educational development debates over the uncritical transportation or the uncritical international transfer of school effectiveness assumptions and models to African contexts. I use Botswana as a case study to show the continuing mismatch between educational management models adopted from Western countries and the application in the Botswana context, and the related failure of school improvement initiatives proposed by aid agencies. When a school fails the head is charged with the underperformance.
Nab2 regulates secondary CD8+ T-cell responses through control of TRAIL expression
Authors: Wolkers Monika C. , Gerlach Carmen , Arens Ramon , Janssen Edith M. , Fitzgerald Patrick , Schumacher Ton N. , Medema Jan Paul , Green Douglas R. , Schoenberger Stephen P.
Published: December 2011

CD4+ Th cells are pivotal for the generation and maintenance of CD8+ T-cell responses. “Helped” CD8+ T cells receive signals during priming that prevent the induction of the proapoptotic molecule TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) during reactivation, thereby enabling robust secondary expansion. Conversely, “helpless” CD8+ T cells primed in the absence of Th induce TRAIL expression after restimulation and undergo activation-induced cell death. In the present study, we investigated the molecular basis for the differential regulation of TRAIL in helped versus helpless CD8+ T cells by comparing their transcriptional profiles, and have identified a transcriptional corepressor, NGFI-A binding protein 2 (Nab2), that is selectively induced in helped CD8+ T cells. Enforced expression of Nab2 prevents TRAIL induction after restimulation of primary helpless CD8+ T cells, and expression of a dominant-negative form of Nab2 in helped CD8+ T cells impairs their secondary proliferative response that is reversible by TRAIL blockade. Finally, we observe that the CD8+ T-cell autocrine growth factor IL-2 coordinately increases Nab2 expression and decreases TRAIL expression. These findings identify Nab2 as a mediator of Th-dependent CD8+ T-cell memory responses through the regulation of TRAIL and the promotion of secondary expansion, and suggest a mechanism through which this operates.
Deletion of HIF-2α in the enterocytes decreases the severity of tissue iron loading in hepcidin knockout mice
Authors: Mastrogiannaki Maria , Matak Pavle , Delga Stéphanie , Deschemin Jean-Christophe , Vaulont Sophie , Peyssonnaux Carole
Published: December 2011

Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) is a highly prevalent genetic disorder characterized by excessive parenchymal iron accumulation leading to liver cirrhosis, diabetes, and in some cases hepatocellular carcinoma. HH is caused by mutations in the genes encoding upstream regulators of hepcidin or more rarely in the hepcidin gene itself. A deficit in hepcidin results in intestinal iron hyperabsorption; however, the local effectors mediating the up-regulation of iron absorption genes are unknown. We hypothesized that HIF-2 could mediate high iron absorption rates in HH. We generated Hepc−/− mice (a murine model of hemochromatosis) lacking HIF-2 in the intestine and showed that duodenal HIF-2 was essential for the up-regulation of genes involved in intestinal iron import and the consequent iron accumulation in the liver and pancreas. This study highlights a role of HIF-2 in the dysregulation of iron absorption and chronic iron accumulation, as observed in patients with hemochromatosis.
Tazarotene-induced gene 1 inhibits prostaglandin E2-stimulated HCT116 colon cancer cell growth
Authors: Tsai Fu-Ming , Wu Chang-Chieh , Shyu Rong-Yaun , Wang Chun-Hua , Jiang Shun-Yuan
Published: December 2011

Background

The tazarotene-induced gene 1 (TIG1) is a putative tumor suppressor gene. We have recently demonstrated both TIG1A and TIG1B isoforms inhibited cell growth and induced the expression of G protein-coupled receptor kinase 5 (GRK5) in colon cancer cells. Because elevated prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) signaling plays a significant role in colorectal carcinogenesis, the objective of this study was to explore the effect of TIG1 on PGE2-induced cellular proliferation and signaling in colon cancer cells.

Methods

HCT116 cells as well as TIG1A and TIG1B stable cells established from HCT116 colon cancer cells using the GeneSwitch system were used. TIG1 isoform expression was induced by mifepristone treatment in stable cells. Cell growth was determined using the WST-1 cell proliferation assay. Activation of β-catenin/TCF and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/CREB signaling pathways were determined using luciferase reporter assays. Expression and subcellular distribution of β-catenin were analyzed using Western blot and confocal microscope. Levels of cAMP were measured using an enzyme immunoassay. RNA interference was used to examine the effects of TIG1- and GRK5-mediated changes.

Results

PGE2-stimulated cell growth was reduced in inducible TIG1A- and TIG1B-stable HCT116 cells. GRK5 expression was upregulated by both TIG1A and TIG1B isoforms, and its expression suppressed PGE2-stimulated HCT116 cell growth. GRK5, TIG1A, and TIG1B expression significantly inhibited PGE2-stimulated β-catenin/TCF and cAMP signaling pathway reporters and cAMP. Also, PGE2-stimulated nuclear localization of β-catenin was inhibited by expression of TIG1A and TIG1B, which was ameliorated by both TIG1 and GRK5 siRNAs.

Conclusions

TIG1 suppressed PGE2-stimulated Wnt and cAMP signaling pathways in colon cancer cells through GRK5.
Characterization of Salvia Miltiorrhiza ethanol extract as an anti-osteoporotic agent
Authors: Cui Yan , Bhandary Bidur , Marahatta Anu , Lee Geum-Hwa , Li Bo , Kim Do-Sung , Chae Soo-Wan , Kim Hyung-Ryong , Chae Han-Jung
Published: November 2011

Background

Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) has long been used as a traditional oriental medicine for cardiovascular disease. Accumulating evidence also indicates that SM has anti-osteoporotic effects. This study was conducted to examine the SM-induced anti-osteoporotic effect and its possible mechanisms with various doses of SM.

Methods

We studied Sprague-Dawley female rats aged 12 weeks, divided into six groups: sham-operated control (SHAM), OVX rats supplemented with SM (1, 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg) orally for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected and biochemistry analysis was performed. Specimens from both tibia and liver were processed for light microscopic examination. DEXA and μ-CT analyses of the tibia were also performed.

Results

SM treatment significantly ameliorated the decrease in BMD and trabecular bone mass according to DEXA and trabecular bone architecture analysis of trabecular bone structural parameters by μ-CT scanning. In serum biochemical analysis, SM decreased the released TRAP-5b, an osteoclast activation marker and oxidative stress parameters including MDA and NO induced by OVX.

Conclusions

The preventive effect of SM was presumably due to its anti-oxidative stress partly via modulation of osteoclast maturation and number. In current study, SM appears to be a promising osteoporosis therapeutic natural product.
Associations of food group and nutrient intake, diet quality, and meal sizes between adults and children in the same household: a cross-sectional analysis of U.S. households
Authors: Zuercher Jennifer L , Wagstaff David A , Kranz Sibylle
Published: November 2011

Background

One might assume that individuals living in the same household have similar dietary intakes of food groups and nutrients. However, the manner in which an adult's dietary intake affects children's food consumption, diet quality (defined as meeting intake recommendations), and meal sizes is understudied to date. The objective of this study was to estimate these relationships between minor children and the female or male head of household.

Methods

Dietary intakes of one randomly selected child of each age group (2-5, 6-11, or 12-18 years old (n = 2,380)) and that of the female/male head of household ((HH), proxy for mother and father) using multiple 24-hour recalls from the Continuing Survey of Food Intake by Individuals (CSFII) 1994-1996 was coded to reflect food group and nutrient density (servings/grams per 1,000 kcal). Linear or logistic regression models were used to determine the association between intakes, whether individuals' diets trended toward meeting her/his intake recommendations, and whether individuals were in the highest quintile for food group densities at four distinct eating occasions (breakfast, brunch/lunch, supper/dinner, or other) in each subject group. Stata's survey commands were used to fit linear or logistic regression models and obtain adjusted regression coefficients or odds ratios.

Results

Associations between food group/nutrient densities were significant but weak to moderate. Adults with diets that trended toward meeting their intake recommendations doubled the odds for children to have diets that trended toward meeting the recommendations; for many meals, adults consuming in the highest quintile for food group density predicted that children's intakes were also in the highest quintile.

Conclusions

Female and male adults living in the same household significantly affect children's food group and nutrient intakes, diet quality, and meal sizes. There is an urgent need for in-depth analysis to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, especially for studies involving both the female and male HH.
Functionalized halloysite nanotube-based carrier for intracellular delivery of antisense oligonucleotides
Authors: Shi Yin-Feng , Tian Zhong , Zhang Yang , Shen He-Bai , Jia Neng-Qin
Published: November 2011

Halloysites are cheap, abundantly available, and natural with high mechanical strength and biocompatibility. In this paper, a novel halloysite nanotube [HNT]-based gene delivery system was explored for loading and intracellular delivery of antisense oligodeoxynucleotides [ASODNs], in which functionalized HNTs [f-HNTs] were used as carriers and ASODNs as a therapeutic gene for targeting survivin. HNTs were firstly surface-modified with γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane in order to facilitate further biofunctionalization. The f-HNTs and the assembled f-HNT-ASODN complexes were characterized by transmission electron microscopy [TEM], dynamic light scattering, UV-visible spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectrophotometry. The intracellular uptake and delivery efficiency of the complexes were effectively investigated by TEM, confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry. In vitro cytotoxicity studies of the complexes using MTT assay exhibited a significant enhancement in the cytotoxic capability. The results exhibited that f-HNT complexes could efficiently improve intracellular delivery and enhance antitumor activity of ASODNs by the nanotube carrier and could be used as novel promising vectors for gene therapy applications, which is attributed to their advantages over structures and features including a unique tubular structure, large aspect ratio, natural availability, rich functionality, good biocompatibility, and high mechanical strength.
Propensity score analysis in the Genetic Analysis Workshop 17 simulated data set on independent individuals
Authors: Lin Chen Min , Sathirapongsasuti Fah J , Kerner Berit
Published: December 2011

Genetic Analysis Workshop 17 provided simulated phenotypes and exome sequence data for 697 independent individuals (209 case subjects and 488 control subjects). The disease liability in these data was influenced by multiple quantitative traits. We addressed the lack of statistical power in this small data set by limiting the genomic variants included in the study to those with potential disease-causing effect, thereby reducing the problem of multiple testing. After this adjustment, we could readily detect two common variants that were strongly associated with the quantitative trait Q1 (C13S523 and C13S522). However, we found no significant associations with the affected status or with any of the other quantitative traits, and the relationship between disease status and genomic variants remained obscure. To address the challenge of the multivariate phenotype, we used propensity scores to combine covariates with genetic risk factors into a single risk factor and created a new phenotype variable, the probability of being affected given the covariates. Using the propensity score as a quantitative trait in the case-control analysis, we again could identify the two common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (C13S523 and C13S522). In addition, this analysis captured the correlation between Q1 and the affected status and reduced the problem of multiple testing. Although the propensity score was useful for capturing and clarifying the genetic contributions of common variants to the disease phenotype and the mediating role of the quantitative trait Q1, the analysis did not increase power to detect rare variants.
A Google Earth-based surveillance system for schistosomiasis japonica implemented in the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, China
Authors: Sun Le-Ping , Liang You-Sheng , Wu Hong-Hui , Tian Zeng-Xi , Dai Jian-Rong , Yang Kun , Hong Qing-Biao , Zhou Xiao-Nong , Yang Guo-Jing
Published: November 2011

Background

Due to the success of the national schistosomiasis control programme in China, transmission has been sufficiently reduced in many areas to severely limit identification of areas at risk by conventional snail surveys only. In this study, we imported Google Earth technology and a Global Positioning System (GPS) into the monitoring system for schistosomiasis surveillance of the banks of the Yangtze River in Jiangsu Province, China.

Methods

A total of 45 sites were selected and the risk was assessed monthly by water exposure of sentinel mice at these sites from May to September in 2009 and 2010. The results were assembled and broadcast via the Google Earth platform.

Results

The intensity of schistosomiasis transmission showed peaks of risk in June and September of 2009, while there was only one small peak in June in 2010 as the number of detected positive transmission sites dropped dramatically that year thanks to improved mollusciciding. River ports were found to be areas of particular risk, but ferry terminals and other centres of river-related activities were also problematic.

Conclusions

The results confirm that the surveillance system can be rapidly updated and easily maintained, which proves the Google Earth approach to be a user-friendly, inexpensive warning system for schistosomiasis risk.
Use of [18F]FDOPA-PET for in vivo evaluation of dopaminergic dysfunction in unilaterally 6-OHDA-lesioned rats
Authors: Kyono Kiyoshi , Takashima Tadayuki , Katayama Yumiko , Kawasaki Toshiyuki , Zochi Riyo , Gouda Maki , Kuwahara Yasuhiro , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Wada Yasuhiro , Onoe Hirotaka , Watanabe Yasuyoshi
Published: November 2011

Background

We evaluated the utility of L-3,4-dihydroxy-6-[18F]fluoro-phenylalanine ([18F]FDOPA) positron emission tomography (PET) as a method for assessing the severity of dopaminergic dysfunction in unilaterally 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-lesioned rats by comparing it with quantitative biochemical, immunohistochemical, and behavioral measurements.

Methods

Different doses of 6-OHDA (0, 7, 14, and 28 μg) were unilaterally injected into the right striatum of male Sprague-Dawley rats. Dopaminergic functional activity in the striatum was assessed by [18F]FDOPA-PET, measurement of striatal dopamine (DA) and DA metabolite levels, tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunostaining, and methamphetamine-induced rotational testing.

Results

Accumulation of [18F]FDOPA in the bilateral striatum was observed in rats pretreated with both aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors. Unilateral intrastriatal injection of 6-OHDA produced a significant site-specific reduction in [18F]FDOPA accumulation. The topological distribution pattern of [18F]FDOPA accumulation in the ipsilateral striatum agreed well with the pattern in TH-stained corresponding sections. A significant positive relationship was found between Patlak plot K
i values and striatal levels of DA and its metabolites (r = 0.958). A significant negative correlation was found between both K
i values (r = -0.639) and levels of DA and its metabolites (r = -0.719) and the number of methamphetamine-induced rotations.

Conclusions

K
i values determined using [18F]FDOPA-PET correlated significantly with the severity of dopaminergic dysfunction. [18F]FDOPA-PET makes it possible to perform longitudinal evaluation of dopaminergic function in 6-OHDA-lesioned rats, which is useful in the development of new drugs and therapies for Parkinson's disease (PD).
Simulating Maximum and Residual Displacements of RC Structures: II. Sensitivity
Authors: Yazgan Ufuk , Dazio Alessandro
Published: December 2011

The simulated response of a structure subjected to seismic excitation is sensitive to the idealizations made to model its response. This paper examines critical idealizations and assumptions that have a strong influence on the accuracy of the maximum and residual displacements predicted by response-history analysis. A set of shake table tests are numerically reproduced for this purpose. The investigated idealizations include the discretization scheme, the axial load, the steel hysteretic model, the viscous damping ratio, and the time-integration step size. The results indicate that the simulated residual displacements are significantly more sensitive to the model idealizations than the maximum displacements. It is found that the adopted discretization scheme and the utilized steel hysteresis model have very large influences on simulated residual displacements.
Simulating Maximum and Residual Displacements of RC Structures: I. Accuracy
Authors: Yazgan Ufuk , Dazio Alessandro
Published: December 2011

Estimation of likely global and local response measures plays an important role in seismic performance assessment. The capabilities and limitations of beam-column element modeling strategies in predicting the dynamic nonlinear flexural response of RC models are investigated in this study. For this purpose, 12 shake table tests are numerically reproduced. Correlations of the predicted deformations with the measured ones are evaluated. The results show that maximum displacements can be estimated with sufficient accuracy if the adopted hysteresis model takes into account stiffness degradation. However, accurate estimation of the residual displacements is found to be difficult to achieve. The results suggest that the assumed small-cycle behavior has a strong influence on the estimated residual displacements. Fiber-section models are found to provide relatively more accurate estimates of the residual displacements than modified Takeda hysteretic and bilinear models. A companion paper, Part II: Sensitivity, presents the sensitivity of the simulated displacements to a set of the model parameters and idealizations.
Identifying the Collapse Hazard of Steel Special Moment-Frame Buildings with Viscous Dampers Using the FEMA P695 Methodology
Authors: Miyamoto H. Kit , Gilani Amir S. J. , Wada Akira , Ariyaratana Christopher
Published: December 2011

An innovative design using steel special moment frames sized per building code requirements for strength and viscous dampers to control story drift ratios results in longer period structures that limit floor accelerations with excellent performance in design-level earthquakes. However, the response of this design to extreme seismic events is not well understood. This is due to the lack of: a) limit state data for dampers, and b) data on the response of the system when subjected to large earthquakes. To address these issues, analytical investigation of the limit states of dampers was performed and the performance of the model was correlated with experimental data. This model was then implemented in a group of archetypes subjected to collapse-level loading. Analysis showed that this design had satisfactory performance when subjected to extreme seismic events. Additional significant improvement in performance was obtained with an enhanced damper design and with a damper safety factor of 1.3.
Logic Tree Branch Weights and Probabilities: Summing up to One is not Enough
Authors: Scherbaum Frank , Kuehn Nicolas M.
Published: December 2011

Logic trees have become the most popular tool for the quantification of epistemic uncertainties in probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA). In a logic-tree framework, epistemic uncertainty is expressed in a set of branch weights, by which an expert or an expert group assigns degree-of-belief values to the applicability of the corresponding branch models. Despite the popularity of logic-trees, however, one finds surprisingly few clear commitments to what logic-tree branch weights are assumed to be (even by hazard analysts designing logic trees). In the present paper we argue that it is important for hazard analysts to accept the probabilistic framework from the beginning for assigning logic-tree branch weights. In other words, to accept that logic-tree branch weights are probabilities in the axiomatic sense, independent of one's preference for the philosophical interpretation of probabilities. We demonstrate that interpreting logic-tree branch weights merely as a numerical measure of “model quality,” which are then subsequently normalized to sum up to unity, will with increasing number of models inevitably lead to an apparent insensitivity of hazard curves on the logic-tree branch weights, which may even be mistaken for robustness of the results. Finally, we argue that assigning logic-tree branch weights in a sequential fashion may improve their logical consistency.
ACTH-Dependent Regulation of MicroRNA As Endogenous Modulators of Glucocorticoid Receptor Expression in the Adrenal Gland
Authors: Riester Anna , Issler Orna , Spyroglou Ariadni , Rodrig Sharon Haramati , Chen Alon , Beuschlein Felix
Published: December 2011

MicroRNA (miR) are a subset of small RNA molecules, which posttranscriptionally modulate target gene expression. Although miR have been demonstrated to impact a number of processes during development and tumorigenesis, little is known about the expression and the role of miR in the adrenal gland. Because tight regulation of steroid synthesis is crucial for maintaining homeostasis upon stressful stimuli, here, we determined the miR expression pattern in mouse adrenal glands under baseline conditions, as well as 10, 30, and 60 min upon ACTH stimulation, using miR microarray. Changes in miR expression levels detected by array analysis were confirmed by real-time PCR and further analyzed by bioinformatic tools to identify miR that putatively target genes involved in adrenal function. After selecting miR, with a significant change in their expression level upon ACTH stimulation, four of the predefined miR (miR-96, miR-101a, miR-142-3p, and miR-433) were found to putatively target the glucocorticoid receptor [nuclear receptor subfamily 3, group C, member 1 (Nr3c1)]. Nr3c1 expression levels were elevated 10 min after ACTH stimulation but decreased after 60 min in comparison with baseline conditions. Modified Nr3c1-3′-untranslated region constructs were further tested by in vitro luciferase assays. Thereby, we could confirm that miR96, miR101a, miR142-3p, and miR433 target the Nr3c1-3′-untranslated region and result in a 20–40% repression of it. Taken together, ACTH stimulation could be demonstrated to acutely influence adrenal miR expression pattern in vivo; thus, potentially modulating adrenal response to acute stressors.
Will There Always Be An Institution? I: The Impact of Epidemiological Trends
Authors: Wolfensberger Wolf
Published: November 2011

In this two-part series of articles, it is predicted that institutions will be phased out because of five trends: development of nonresidential community services; new conceptualizations of and attitudes toward residential services; increased usage of individual rather than group residential placements; provision of small, specialized group residences; and a decline in the incidence and prevalence of severe and profound retardation due to reduction in the birthrate of high risk groups, improvement of health services for the population generally and for high risk groups specifically, increased practice of abortion, general environmental betterment, and early childhood education. In this (first) part, the impact of the predicted epidemiological trends upon residential services is discussed.
Relationships Among Moral Reasoning, Empathy, and Distorted Cognitions in Men With Intellectual Disabilities and a History of Criminal Offending
Authors: Langdon Peter E , Murphy Glynis H , Clare Isabel C. H , Steverson Tom , Palmer Emma J
Published: November 2011

Eighty men, spread equally across 4 groups, were recruited, including men with and without intellectual disabilities. The men were either criminal offenders or nonoffenders. Participants completed measures of moral reasoning, empathy, and distorted cognitions. The results indicated that the moral reasoning abilities of offenders with intellectual disabilities were developmentally delayed but were still more mature than those of nonoffenders with intellectual disabilities. Offenders without intellectual disabilities had less mature moral reasoning abilities than nonoffenders without intellectual disabilities. The differences may be partially accounted for by intellectual ability. The results also indicated that the relationship between empathy and distorted cognitions was mediated by moral reasoning. The findings have implications for the use of psychological interventions with offenders with intellectual disabilities.
Bullying: a stepping stone to dating aggression?
Authors: Josephson Wendy L. , Pepler Debra
Published: November 2011

Bullying is the use of power and aggression to control and distress another. In this paper, we review research to explore whether the lessons learned in bullying provide a stepping stone to aggressive behavior in dating relationships. We start by considering definitions and a relationship framework with which to understand both bullying and dating aggression. We consider bullying from a developmental-contextual perspective and consider risk factors associated with the typical developmental patterns for bullying and dating aggression, including developmental and sociodemographic, individual attributes, and family, peer group, community, and societal relationship contexts that might lead some children and youths to follow developmental pathways that lead to bullying and dating aggression. We conclude by discussing implications for intervention with a review of evidence-based interventions.
Reaching Jewish ultra-orthodox adolescents: results from a targeted smoking prevention trial
Authors: Knishkowy Barry , Verbov Gina , Amitai Yona , Stein-Zamir Chen , Rosen Laura
Published: November 2011

Background: Ultra-orthodox, Jewish adolescent boys are considered to have relatively high smoking rates, but are generally not targeted by Israel’s smoking prevention programs.

Objective: The objective of this trial was to test the effectiveness of a religion-based tobacco control intervention in reducing smoking prevalence among these youth.

Methods: The study population participants were 340 boys from 63 religious boys’ schools in Jerusalem. The intervention consisted of a mailing that included a pamphlet describing the health effects of and rabbinical prohibitions on smoking. A cluster randomized trial was conducted between March and May, 2005. The primary endpoint was current smoking status. Secondary endpoints were future intent to smoke and attitudes towards smoking. Generalized estimating equations and mixed models of analysis of variance were used to perform the analyses.

Results: The intervention did not significantly affect current smoking, intent to smoke or attitudes towards smoking. Prevalence of smoking and future intent to smoke were higher in schools without enforced smoking regulations [odds ratio (OR) 2.74, p=0.026, OR 3.38, p=0.018]. Increased smoking prevalence was associated with a high prevalence of smoking among friends (p=0.031) and not finding smoking repulsive (p=0.024).

Conclusions: This study adds to the public health literature linking smoke-free schools and peer influences to adolescent smoking. Pamphlets containing rabbinic prohibitions on smoking initiation did not affect smoking behavior or intent to smoke.
Erlebnis intuitive Interaktion — ein phänomenlogischer Ansatz
Authors: Ullrich Daniel , Diefenbach Sarah
Published: December 2011

Ein „intuitives Bedienkonzept” gilt als ein unabdingbares Qualitätsmerkmal interaktiver Produkte. Doch was genau Anwender sich hiervon versprechen, und welche Merkmale „intuitive” Nutzungserlebnisse aufweisen, ist weniger eindeutig. Der vorliegende Beitrag stellt einen Ansatz vor, der sich dem Erlebnis intuitive Interaktion aus phänomenologischer Sichtweise nähert. Neben Schilderungen aus Nutzersicht wurden Erkenntnisse der Intuitionsforschung aus der Entscheidungspsychologie berücksichtigt. Die hierbei identifizierten vier Komponenten intuitiver Interaktion (Mühelosigkeit, Gefühlsgeleitet, Verbalisierungsfähigkeit, Magisches Erleben) bildeten die Grundlage für die Entwicklung des INTUI-Fragebogens, mit dessen Hilfe sich verschiedene Pattern des Erlebens intuitiver Interaktion abbilden lassen. Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über bisherige Studienergebnisse zu Einflussfaktoren auf INTUI-Pattern und die Entstehung von Intuitivitätsurteilen sowie einen Ausblick auf zukünftige Forschungsfragen.
Serum inhibin pro-αC is a tumor marker for adrenocortical carcinomas
Authors: Hofland Johannes , Feelders Richard A , van der Wal Ronald , Kerstens Michiel N , Haak Harm R , de Herder Wouter W , de Jong Frank H
Published: December 2011

Objective

The insufficient diagnostic accuracy for differentiation between benign and malignant adrenocortical disease and lack of sensitive markers reflecting tumor load emphasize the need for novel biomarkers for diagnosis and follow-up of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC).

Design

Since the inhibin α-subunit is expressed within the adrenal cortex, the role of serum inhibin pro-αC as a tumor marker for ACC was studied in patients.

Methods

Regulation of adrenal pro-αC secretion was investigated by adrenocortical function tests. Serum inhibin pro-αC levels were measured in controls (n=181) and patients with adrenocortical hyperplasia (n=45), adrenocortical adenoma (ADA,n=32), ACC (n=32), or non-cortical tumors (n=12). Steroid hormone, ACTH, and inhibin A and B levels were also estimated in patient subsets.

Results

Serum inhibin pro-αC levels increased by 16% after stimulation with ACTH (P=0.043). ACC patients had higher serum inhibin pro-αC levels than controls (medians 733 vs 307 ng/l,P<0.0001) and patients with adrenocortical hyperplasia, ADA, or non-adrenocortical adrenal tumors (148, 208, and 131 ng/l, respectively,P=0.0003). Inhibin pro-αC measurement in ACC patients had a sensitivity of 59% and specificity of 84% for differentiation from ADA patients. Receiver operating characteristic analysis displayed areas under the curve of 0.87 for ACC vs controls and 0.81 for ACC vs ADA (P<0.0001). Surgery or mitotane therapy was followed by a decrease of inhibin pro-αC levels in 10/10 ACC patients tested during follow-up (P=0.0065).

Conclusions

Inhibin pro-αC is produced by the adrenal gland. Differentiation between ADA and ACC by serum inhibin pro-αC is limited, but its levels may constitute a novel tumor marker for ACC.
Esthetic Evaluation of Single-Tooth Morse Taper Connection Implants Placed in Fresh Extraction Sockets or Healed Sites
Authors: Mangano Francesco G. , Mangano Carlo , Ricci Massimiliano , Sammons Rachel L. , Shibli Jamil A. , Piattelli Adriano
Published: December 2011

The aim of this study was to compare the esthetic outcome of single implants placed in fresh extraction sockets with those placed in fully healed sites of the anterior maxilla. This retrospective study was based on data from patients treated with single-tooth Morse taper connection implants placed in fresh extraction sockets and in fully healed sites of the anterior maxilla. Only single implant treatments were considered with both neighboring teeth present. Additional prerequisites for immediate implant treatment were intact socket walls and a thick gingival biotype. The esthetic outcome was objectively rated using the pink esthetic/white esthetic score (PES/WES). The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare the PES and the WES between the 2 groups. Twenty-two patients received an immediate implant, and 18 patients had conventional implant surgery. The mean follow-up was 31.09 months (SD 5.57; range 24–46) and 34.44 months (SD 7.10; range 24–48) for immediately and conventionally inserted implants, respectively. No implants were lost. All implants fulfilled the success criteria. The mean PES/WES was 14.50 (SD 2.52; range 9–19) and 15.61 (SD 3.20; range 8–20) for immediately and conventionally placed implants, respectively. Immediate implants had a mean PES of 7.45 (SD 1.62; range 4–10) and a mean WES of 7.04 (SD 1.29; range 5–10). Conventional implants had a mean PES of 7.83 (SD 1.58; range 4–10) and a mean WES of 7.77 (SD 1.66; range 4–10). The difference between the 2 groups was not significant. Immediate and conventional single implant treatment yielded comparable esthetic outcomes.
Helicobacter pylori antibiotic resistance in Brazil: clarithromycin is still a good option
Authors: Eisig Jaime Natan , Silva Fernando Marcuz , Barbuti Ricardo Correa , Navarro-Rodriguez Tomás , Moraes-Filho Joaquim Prado P , Pedrazzoli Jr José
Published: December 2011

CONTEXT: The antibiotic susceptibility is the cornerstone for the eradication therapies of Helicobacter pylori. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the prevalence of primary resistance of H. pylori was evaluated in an urban Brazilian population. METHODS:H. pylori isolates were obtained from patients submitted to an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy for the evaluation of dyspeptic symptoms. Biopsies from antrum, corpus and fundus were taken to determine the antibiotic susceptibility of H. pylori isolates. The minimal inhibitory concentration of furazolidone and bismuth were routinely determined by agar dilution method and the minimal inhibitory for amoxicillin, clarithromycin, tetracycline, levofloxacin, and metronidazole were routinely determined with the E-test. RESULTS: Fifty-four patients were included. In vitro antimicrobial susceptibility of H. pylori strains were obtained from 39 patients. Resistance to metronidazole was detected in 20 patients (51%), to clarithromycin in 3 patients (8%), to levofloxacin in 9 patients (23%) and to bismuth in 2 patients (5%). There was no observed resistance to amoxicillin, tetracycline or furazolidone. CONCLUSION: Due to the low amoxicillin and clarithromycin resistance observed in this study, therapies using these antimicrobials remain appropriated first-line H. pylori therapy.
Modelo de avaliação da gestão municipal para o planejamento em saúde
Authors: Berretta Isabel Quint , Lacerda Josimari Telino de , Calvo Maria Cristina Marino
Published: December 2011

Este artigo apresenta um modelo de avaliação da gestão municipal para o planejamento em saúde. Trata-se de pesquisa metodológica cuja construção da matriz avaliativa utilizou o referencial teórico de planejamento em saúde, a compreensão de organização e funcionamento delineado pelo PlanejaSUS e definições de responsabilidades para a área em nível municipal do Pacto de Gestão. Os indicadores e medidas foram validados por técnica de consenso, com especialistas em planejamento e avaliação. Sua aplicabilidade foi testada em 271 municípios de Santa Catarina, Brasil, considerando o porte populacional. O modelo proposto tem duas dimensões avaliativas, que refletem o compromisso do gestor municipal com o planejamento: a garantia de recursos e de relações internas e externas necessárias ao desenvolvimento das atividades. Os dados foram analisados com a utilização de indicadores, subdimensões e dimensões. Concluiu-se que o modelo é viável e adequado para avaliar o empenho da gestão municipal para o planejamento em saúde.
Financial health and customer satisfaction in private health care providers in Brazil
Authors: Schiozer Rafael Felipe , Saito Cristiana Checchia , Saito Richard
Published: December 2011

This paper analyzes the relationship between the financial health and organizational form of private health care providers in Brazil. It also examines the major determinants of customer satisfaction associated with the provider's organ-izational form. An adjusted Altman's z-score is used as an indicator of financial health. A proxy variable based on customer complaints filed at the Brazilian National Agency for Supplementary Health is used as an indicator for customer satisfaction. The study uses a sample of 270 private health care providers and their operations over the period 2003-2005. Panel data analysis includes control variables related to market, operations, and management. Principal results indicate that: (1) private health care providers benefit from economies of scale; (2) self-funded health plans have better financial health; (3) spending on marketing does not have a signif-icant impact on customer satisfaction in Brazil; (4) weak empirical evidence exists showing that good financial performance enhances customer's satisfaction.