bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Chronic Kidney Disease and Cerebral Small Vessel Disease with Cognitive Impairment in Elderly Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Umemura Toshitaka , Kawamura Takahiko , Umegaki Hiroyuki , Kawano Naoko , Mashita Shinichi , Sakakibara Toshimasa , Hotta Nigishi , Sobue Gen
Published: July 2013

Background/Aims: In recent years, the relationship between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cognitive impairment has been attracting attention. Cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) is also associated with an increased risk of cognitive impairment. However, it is still unknown whether CKD markers are associated with cognitive impairment independently of SVD in elderly diabetic patients. Methods: Seventy-nine type 2 diabetic patients (mean age, 76.0 years) were enrolled in the present study. CKD was defined as the presence of albuminuria and/or a low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2). SVD was evaluated by the presence and severity of silent brain infarcts (SBIs) and white matter lesions (WMLs) on brain magnetic resonance imaging. Neuropsychological tests were assessed using four validated cognitive instruments. Results: In multiple linear regression analyses, albuminuria was associated with worse modified Stroop Color Word scores (β = 0.284, p = 0.017) and low eGFR was associated with reduced Digit Symbol Substitution scores (β = -0.224, p = 0.026) after adjustment for age, sex, education years, diabetes duration, hypertension, multiple SBIs, and advanced WMLs. In contrast, there were no significant associations between CKD markers and Mini-Mental State Examination or Word Recall scores. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that albuminuria and low eGFR are associated with frontal lobe dysfunction independently of SVD in elderly type 2 diabetic patients.
Declining Mortality Rates despite Increases in Clinical Coronary Artery Disease among US Dialysis Patients: A National Registry Study
Authors: Stack Austin G. , Neylon Antoinette M. , Abdalla Ahad A. , Hegarty Avril , Hannigan Ailish , Cronin Cornelius J. , Nguyen Hoang T. , Casserly Liam F.
Published: July 2013

Background/Aims: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major risk factor for death on dialysis. The objective of this study was to compare prevalent trends and patterns of survival in successive national cohorts. Methods: National data on 823,753 incident dialysis patients, aged 18 and over, were analyzed from the US Renal Data System from 1995 to 2004. The prevalence of CAD was compared across calendar years by sex and race categorized as; White, Black, Asian and Native American/Alaskan Native (Native Am). Two-year mortality rates were determined for annual cohorts and multivariable Cox regression compared hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals. Results: From 1995 to 2004, the annual prevalence of CAD increased significantly in men from 25.2 to 30.1% and in women from 22.1 to 25.3%, p < 0.001. For men, the rise in prevalence was largely due to increases among Black men and older White men. For women, the pattern was similar. During this period, death rates decreased significantly from 379 to 348 and from 396 to 357 per 1,000 person-years in men and women respectively. Multivariate analysis identified significant reductions in mortality with advancing calendar year for White (HR 0.98 (0.98-0.99)), Asian (HR 0.93 (0.91-0.96)), and Native Am men (HR 0.95 (0.90-0.99)), and for White (HR 0.99 (0.98-0.99)) and Native Am women (HR 0.93 (0.89-0.98)). No significant trends were observed for Black patients. Conclusions: Despite a rising burden of CAD among incident US dialysis patients, mortality rates have fallen for most groups. Substantial racial disparities remain.
Atrial Natriuretic Peptide–Mediated Inhibition of Microcirculatory Endothelial Ca
2+
and Permeability Response to Histamine Involves cGMP-Dependent Protein Kinase I and TRPC6 Channels
Authors: Chen Wen , Oberwinkler Heike , Werner Franziska , Gaßner Birgit , Nakagawa Hitoshi , Feil Robert , Hofmann Franz , Schlossmann Jens , Dietrich Alexander , Gudermann Thomas , Nishida Motohiro , Del Galdo Sabrina , Wieland Thomas , Kuhn Michaela
Published: June 2013

Objective—

Histamine increases microvascular endothelial leakage by activation of complex calcium-dependent and -independent signaling pathways. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) via its cGMP-forming guanylyl cyclase-A (GC-A) receptor counteracts this response. Here, we characterized the molecular mechanisms underlying this interaction, especially the role of cGMP-dependent protein kinase I (cGKI).

Approach and Results—

We combined intravital microscopy studies of the mouse cremaster microcirculation with experiments in cultured microvascular human dermal endothelial cells. In wild-type mice, ANP had no direct effect on the extravasation of fluorescent dextran from postcapillary venules, but strongly reduced the histamine-provoked vascular leakage. This anti-inflammatory effect of ANP was abolished in mice with endothelial-restricted inactivation of GC-A or cGKI. Histamine-induced increases in endothelial [Ca
2+
]
i
in vitro and of vascular leakage in vivo were markedly attenuated by the Ca
2+
-entry inhibitor SKF96365 and in mice with ablated transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) 6 channels. Conversely, direct activation of TRPC6 with hyperforin replicated the hyperpermeability responses to histamine. ANP, via cGKI, stimulated the inhibitory phosphorylation of TRPC6 at position Thr
69
and prevented the hyperpermeability responses to hyperforin. Moreover, inhibition of cGMP degradation by the phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor sildenafil prevented the edematic actions of histamine in wild types but not in mice with endothelial GC-A or cGKI deletion.

Conclusions—

ANP attenuates the inflammatory actions of histamine via endothelial GC-A/cGMP/cGKI signaling and inhibitory phosphorylation of TRPC6 channels. The therapeutic potential of this novel regulatory pathway is indicated by the observation that sildenafil improves systemic endothelial barrier functions by enhancing the endothelial effects of endogenous ANP.
25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Parathyroid Hormone Are Not Associated With Carotid Intima-Media Thickness or Plaque in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Blondon Marc , Sachs Michael , Hoofnagle Andrew N. , Ix Joachim H. , Michos Erin D. , Korcarz Claudia , Gepner Adam D. , Siscovick David S. , Kaufman Joel D. , Stein James H. , Kestenbaum Bryan , de Boer Ian H.
Published: June 2013

Objective—

Observational evidence supports independent associations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) with cardiovascular risk. A plausible hypothesis for these associations is accelerated development of atherosclerosis.

Approach and Results—

We evaluated cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of 25-OHD and PTH with carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and carotid plaques among 3251 participants free of cardiovascular disease in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. 25-OHD and PTH were measured at baseline by mass spectrometry and immunoassay, respectively. All subjects underwent a carotid ultrasound examination at baseline and 9.4 years later (median, range 8–11.1 years). Multivariable linear and logistic regressions were used to test associations of 25-OHD and PTH with the extent and progression of IMT and the prevalence and incidence of carotid plaque. Mean (SD) 25-OHD and PTH were 25.8 ng/mL (10.6) and 44.2 pg/mL (20.2), respectively. No independent associations were found between 25-OHD or PTH and IMT at baseline (increment of 1.9 μm [95% confidence interval, −5.1 to 8.9] per 10 ng/mL lower 25-OHD; increment of 0.8 μm [95% confidence interval, −3.2 to 4.8] per 10 pg/mL higher PTH) or progression of IMT (increment of 2.6 μm [95% confidence interval, −2.5 to 7.8] per 10 ng/mL lower 25-OHD, increment of 1.6 μm [95% confidence interval, −1.9 to 5.2] per 10 pg/mL higher PTH). No associations were found with the baseline prevalence of carotid plaque or the incidence of new plaques during the study period. We did not observe any interaction by race or ethnicity (White, Chinese, Black, and Hispanic).

Conclusions—

The consistent lack of association of vitamin D and PTH with carotid IMT and plaque suggests that these hormones may influence cardiovascular risk through pathways not reflected by carotid atherosclerosis.
Hydrogen Sulfide Attenuates Cardiac Dysfunction After Heart Failure Via Induction of Angiogenesis
Authors: Polhemus David J. , Kondo Kazuhisa , Bhushan Shashi , Bir Shyamal C. , Kevil Christopher G. , Murohara Toyoaki , Lefer David J. , Calvert John W.
Published: June 2013

Background—

Hydrogen sulfide (H
2
S) has been shown to induce angiogenesis in in vitro models and to promote vessel growth in the setting of hindlimb ischemia. The goal of the present study was to determine the therapeutic potential of a stable, long-acting H
2
S donor, diallyl trisulfide, in a model of pressure-overload heart failure and to assess the effects of chronic H
2
S therapy on myocardial vascular density and angiogenesis.

Methods and Results—

Transverse aortic constriction was performed in mice (C57BL/6J; 8–10 weeks of age). Mice received either vehicle or diallyl trisulfide (200 µg/kg) starting 24 hours after transverse aortic constriction and were followed up for 12 weeks using echocardiography. H
2
S therapy with diallyl trisulfide improved left ventricular remodeling and preserved left ventricular function in the setting of transverse aortic constriction. H
2
S therapy increased the expression of the proangiogenic factor, vascular endothelial cell growth factor, and decreased the angiogenesis inhibitor, angiostatin. Further studies revealed that H
2
S therapy increased the expression of the proliferation marker, Ki67, as well as increased the phosphorylation of endothelial NO synthase and the bioavailability of NO. Importantly, these changes were associated with an increase in vascular density within the H
2
S-treated hearts.

Conclusions—

These results suggest that H
2
S therapy attenuates left ventricular remodeling and dysfunction in the setting of heart failure by creating a proangiogenic environment for the growth of new vessels.
Postdischarge Outcomes in Heart Failure Are Better for Teaching Hospitals and Weekday Discharges
Authors: McAlister Finlay A. , Au Anita G. , Majumdar Sumit R. , Youngson Erik , Padwal Raj S.
Published: June 2013

Background—

It is unclear whether teaching status or day of discharge influences outcomes after a heart failure hospitalization.

Methods and Results—

We evaluated adults discharged after a heart failure hospitalization between 1999 and 2009 in Alberta, Canada. The primary outcome was death or nonelective readmission 30 days postdischarge. Of 12 216 patients discharged from teaching hospitals and 12 157 patients from nonteaching hospitals, 20 524 (84%) discharges occurred on weekdays. Although they had greater comorbidity and used more healthcare resources before their heart failure hospitalization, patients discharged from teaching hospitals exhibited shorter lengths of stay (adjusted ratio, 0.83; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.80–0.86) and significantly lower rates of death or readmission in the 30 days after discharge than those discharged from nonteaching hospitals (17.4% versus 22.1%; adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.83; 95% CI, 0.77–0.89). Patients discharged on weekdays were older and had greater comorbidity, yet exhibited significantly lower rates of death or readmission at 30 days than those discharged on weekends (19.5% versus 21.1%; aHR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.80–0.94). Compared with weekend discharge from a nonteaching hospital, 30-day death/readmission rates were lower for weekday discharge from a nonteaching hospital (aHR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.77–0.94), weekend discharge from a teaching hospital (aHR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.69–0.92), and weekday discharge from a teaching hospital (aHR, 0.71, 95% CI, 0.63–0.79).

Conclusions—

Patients discharged from teaching hospitals or on weekdays exhibited better outcomes despite having higher risk profiles. Future studies should focus on distinguishing which discharge processes differ between teaching and nonteaching hospitals and between weekdays and weekends to define those that optimize patient outcomes.
Individual Common Carotid Artery Wall Layer Dimensions, but Not Carotid Intima–Media Thickness, Indicate Increased Cardiovascular Risk in Women With Preeclampsia
Authors: Akhter Tansim , Wikström Anna-Karin , Larsson Marita , Naessen Tord
Published: June 2013

Background—

Preeclampsia (PE) is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. Ultrasound assessment of the common carotid artery intima–media thickness (IMT) during or after PE has not indicated any increased cardiovascular risk.

Methods and Results—

We used high-frequency ultrasound (22 MHz) to estimate the individual common carotid artery IMTs in 55 women at PE diagnosis and in 64 women with normal pregnancies at a similar stage. All were re-examined about 1 year postpartum. A thick intima, thin media, and high intima/media (I/M) ratio are signs of a less healthy artery wall. PE was associated with a significantly thicker mean common carotid artery intima, thinner media, and higher I/M ratio than in normal pregnancy (mean I/M difference, 0.21; 95% confidence interval, 0.17–0.25;
P
<0.0001). After adjustment for first trimester body mass index and mean arterial pressure, differences in intima thickness and I/M remained significant. About 1 year postpartum, these values had improved in both groups, but group differences remained significant (all adjusted
P
<0.0001). There were no significant differences in IMT between groups. In receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis, intima thickness and I/M were strongly predictive of prevalent PE (area under the curve, ≈0.95), whereas IMT was not (area under the curve, 0.49).

Conclusions—

The arteries of women with PE were negatively affected during pregnancy and 1 year postpartum compared with women with normal pregnancies, indicating increased cardiovascular risk. Estimation of intima thickness and I/M ratio seem preferable to estimation of common carotid artery IMT in imaging cardiovascular risk in PE. Results from this pilot study warrant further confirmation.
Coronary Endothelium-Dependent Vasoreactivity and Atheroma Volume in Subjects With Stable, Minimal Angiographic Disease Versus Non–ST-Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Puri Rishi , Nicholls Stephen J. , Nissen Steven E. , Brennan Danielle M. , Andrews Jordan , Liew Gary Y. , Nelson Adam J. , Carbone Angelo , Copus Barbara , Tuzcu E. Murat , Beltrame John F. , Worthley Stephen G. , Worthley Matthew I.
Published: June 2013

Background—

Epicardial plaque burden and endothelial function are recognized predictors of coronary events. We aimed to investigate mechanistic relationships between atheroma volume and endothelial function in patients with non–ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) using intravascular ultrasound.

Methods and Results—

In coronary vessels of patients with near-normal or minimal angiographic disease (n=23) and NSTEMI (n=24), intravascular ultrasound-derived measures (percent atheroma volume), arterial remodeling index, and segmental lumen volumes were performed in contiguous 5-mm epicardial segments. Repeat intravascular ultrasound imaging was performed after consecutive 5-minute intracoronary infusions (vehicle solution, 0.30 μg/min and 0.60 μg/min intracoronary salbutamol) to measure changes in segmental lumen volume (endothelium-dependent function). Male sex, diabetes mellitus, smoking, higher triglycerides, and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were more prevalent in the NSTEMI group. Patients with NSTEMI demonstrated greater segmental percent atheroma volume (40.4±12 versus 27.5±14%, P<0.001), remodeling index (1.2 [1.0–1.5] versus 1.0 [0.9–1.0], P<0.001), and displayed less endothelium-dependent vasomotion (% change segmental lumen volume: 2.1±0.89 versus 5.1±0.89%, P=0.02) compared to patients with minimal angiographic disease. No significant difference in endothelial function between both groups was observed when controlling for plaque burden. Multivariate analysis for change in segmental lumen volume identified percent atheroma volume (β=−0.18, P=0.0004), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein >2 mg/L (β=−3.1, P=0.03), diabetes mellitus (β=−6.9, P<0.0001), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (β=−0.04, P=0.01), and smoking (β=–3.2, P=0.01) as independent associates.

Conclusions—

Although coronary endothelial vasoreactivity is blunted in the setting of NSTEMI, this is a reflection of the greater volume of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk factors. Thus, the relationship between coronary endothelium-dependent vasomotor reactivity and atheroma volume remains constant irrespective of the nature of the clinical presentation.
Thrombolytic Therapy for the Treatment of Prosthetic Heart Valve Thrombosis in Pregnancy With Low-Dose, Slow Infusion of Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator
Authors: Özkan Mehmet , Çakal Beytullah , Karakoyun Süleyman , Gürsoy Ozan Mustafa , Çevik Cihan , Kalçık Macit , Oğuz Ali Emrah , Gündüz Sabahattin , Astarcioglu Mehmet Ali , Aykan Ahmet Çağrı , Bayram Zübeyde , Biteker Murat , Kaynak Evren , Kahveci Gökhan , Duran Nilüfer Ekşi , Yıldız Mustafa
Published: June 2013

Background—

Prosthetic valve thrombosis during pregnancy is life-threatening for mother and fetus, and the treatment of this complication is unclear. Cardiac surgery in pregnancy is associated with very high maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. Thrombolytic therapy has rarely been used in these patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of low-dose (25 mg), slow infusion (6 hours) of tissue-type plasminogen activator for the treatment of prosthetic valve thrombosis in pregnant women.

Methods and Results—

Between 2004 and 2012, tissue-type plasminogen activator was administered to 24 consecutive women in 25 pregnancies with 28 prosthetic valve thrombosis episodes (obstructive, n=15; nonobstructive, n=13). Mean age of the patients was 29±6 years. Thrombolytic therapy sessions were performed under transesophageal echocardiography guidance. The mean dose of tissue-type plasminogen activator used was 48.7±29.5 mg (range, 25–100mg). All episodes resulted in complete thrombus lysis after thrombolytic therapy. One patient had placental hemorrhage with preterm live birth at the 30th week, and 1 patient had minor bleeding.

Conclusions—

Low-dose, slow infusion of tissue-type plasminogen activator with repeated doses as needed is an effective therapy with an excellent thrombolytic success rate for the treatment of prosthetic valve thrombosis in pregnant women. This protocol also seems to be safer than cardiac surgery or any alternative medical strategies published to date. Thrombolytic therapy should be considered first-line therapy in pregnant patients with prosthetic valve thrombosis.
Effects of Noninvasive Brain Stimulation on Language Networks and Recovery in Early Poststroke Aphasia
Authors: Thiel Alexander , Hartmann Alexander , Rubi-Fessen Ilona , Anglade Carole , Kracht Lutz , Weiduschat Nora , Kessler Josef , Rommel Thomas , Heiss Wolf-Dieter
Published: June 2013

Background and Purpose—

Modulation of activity in language networks using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may possibly support recovery from poststroke aphasia. Case series and feasibility studies seem to indicate a therapeutic effect; however, randomized sham-controlled, proof-of-principle studies relating clinical effects to activation patterns are missing.

Methods—

Twenty-four patients with subacute poststroke aphasia were randomized to a 10-day protocol of 20-minute inhibitory 1 Hz rTMS over the right triangular part of the posterior inferior frontal gyrus or sham stimulation, followed by 45 minutes of speech and language therapy. Activity in language networks was measured with O-15-water positron emission tomography during verb generation before and after treatment. Language performance was assessed using the Aachen Aphasia Test battery.

Results—

The primary outcome measure, global Aachen Aphasia Test score change, was significantly higher in the rTMS group (
t
test,
P
=0.003). Increases were largest for subtest naming (
P
=0.002) and tended to be higher for comprehension, token test, and writing (
P
<0.1). Patients in the rTMS group activated proportionally more voxels in the left hemisphere after treatment than before (difference in activation volume index) compared with sham-treated patients (
t
test,
P
=0.002).There was a moderate but significant linear relationship between activation volume index change and global Aachen Aphasia Test score change (
r
2
=0.25;
P
=0.015).

Conclusions—

Ten sessions of inhibitory rTMS over the right posterior inferior frontal gyrus, in combination with speech and language therapy, significantly improve language recovery in subacute ischemic stroke and favor recruitment of left-hemispheric language networks.
Differences in Outcome and Predictors Between Ischemic and Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Bhalla Ajay , Wang Yanzhong , Rudd Anthony , Wolfe Charles D.A.
Published: June 2013

Background and Purpose—

Few population-based studies describing functional outcome between ischemic stroke and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in the short- and long-term are available. Knowledge of the natural history and factors associated with poor outcome is important in providing prognostic information and resource allocation.

Methods—

Data were collected within the population-based South London Stroke Register between 1995 and 2011. Baseline data were collection of sociodemographic factors, case mix, risk factors before stroke, and acute stroke processes, with outcomes at 7 days, 3 months, 1 year, 5 years, and 10 years after stroke. Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with poor outcome (dead and dependency: Barthel index <15).

Results—

Age and incontinence were associated with poor outcome at 3 months, 1 year, 5 years, and 10 years in ICH, whereas age, incontinence, failed swallow, atrial fibrillation, and diabetes mellitus were associated with poor outcome in ischemic stroke. ICH was more likely to have poorer outcomes at 3 months (odds ratio, 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.8–2.8) and 1 year (odds ratio, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.7–2.6) but not at 5 years (odds ratio, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.8–1.4) or 10 years (odd ratio, 0.8; 95% CI, 0.57–1.22); however, the improvement of functional outcome from day 7 to 3 months was significantly greater for ICH (regression coefficient: 1.8; 95% CI, 1.1–2.6;
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

ICH has poorer outcomes up to 5 years after stroke. The improvement of functional outcome up to 3 months was significantly greater with ICH. Identification of factors associated with poor outcome may be used for clinical predictions.
‘Marketless Trading in Hammurabi’s Time’: A Re-appraisal
Authors: Dale Gareth
Published: June 2013

Abstract

In this article I revisit Karl Polanyi’s writings on ancient Mesopotamia. I begin by situating them in the context of his general approach to trade, markets and money in the ancient world. Next, I reconstruct his major theses on Mesopotamia, drawing upon his published works as well as unpublished documents in the Karl Polanyi and Michael Polanyi archives. Finally, I provide a critical assessment of the merits and demerits of his contribution, with reference to Assyriological research published in the decades that have elapsed since his death in 1964.
New Jurassic amber outcrops from Lebanon
Authors: Nohra Youssef , Azar Dany , Gèze Raymond , Maksoud Sibelle , El-Samrani Antoine , Perrichot Vincent
Published: June 2013

Amber predating the Lower Cretaceous is extremely rare. During the past two decades, records of discoveries of amber sites have increased considerably worldwide. We report herein the discovery of ten new outcrops of amber from the Late Jurassic in Lebanon, in addition to other nine outcrops described by Azar et al. (2010). Some of these outcrops gave large centimetric sized amber pieces. Each of these new amber outcrops is described, and its infrared spectrum is given. Though the Jurassic amber yielded to date no more than some fungal inclusions, this discovery is significant and promising especially in the reconstruction of the paleoenvironment.
A Maghrebian Sharḥ to the Hafṭara for the Minḥa Service on the Day of Atonement
Authors: Bar-Asher Moshe
Published: June 2013

Abstract

This article deals with the text of a sharḥ (i.e., a Judeo-Arabic translation) to the hafṭara for the afternoon service on the Day of Atonement according to the traditions of Tafilalt and Todgha in Southeast Morocco. This text is a written version of a sharḥ that was transmitted orally for generations and was finally put down in writing in Jerusalem, apparently in the 1960s. The paper discusses a few unique and innovative linguistic phenomena that characterize this text in the realms of orthography, pronunciation, syntax, and lexicon. It also examines the exegetical method that is reflected in this sharḥ and comments on three aspects of the scribe’s work in transmitting the oral tradition to writing.
Death, Time, and Psychosis
Authors: Lombardi Riccardo
Published: June 2013

Working through the awareness of death and the consciousness of time, it is hypothesized, plays a decisive role in the analytic process and in the mental growth of psychotic analysands, as well as in the integration of the psychotic areas in healthier patients. Clinical material is presented from a psychotic woman treated analytically, four sessions a week, for twelve years. The patient suffered several acute relapses, during which the analytic work was not interrupted. Her fourth psychotic episode in the course of analysis, which involved a delusion about gray men and the theft of time, is explored in particular depth. This phase fostered the patient’s recognition of the value of time, together with the acquisition of her own center of psychosensory integration, the basis of an ability to learn from experience.
Willingness to disclose a mental disorder and knowledge of disorders in others: Changes in Australia over 16 years
Authors: Reavley Nicola J , Jorm Anthony F
Published: June 2013

Objective:

To assess whether willingness to disclose experience of a mental disorder and treatment, and awareness of others’ experiences have changed over a 16-year period.

Methods:

In 2011, telephone interviews were carried out with 6019 Australians aged 15+. The survey interview used the same questions as those of the 1995 and 2003/4 national mental health literacy surveys, in which participants were presented with a case vignette describing either depression, depression with suicidal thoughts (2003/4 only), early schizophrenia or chronic schizophrenia (2003/4 only). Participants were asked whether they had a close friend or family member who had experienced a problem similar to that described in the vignette and whether the person received professional help. They were also asked whether they had experienced such a problem and whether they received professional help.

Results:

The numbers of those disclosing experiences of depression and early schizophrenia, and of having received professional help for depression, have increased since 1995. Awareness of a family member or close friend with experiences of depression and early schizophrenia also increased between these years, as did awareness that the person received professional help.

Conclusions:

The numbers of those disclosing experiences of and treatment for mental disorders has increased in the last 16 years. This is likely to be due to increased willingness to disclose rather than increased prevalence of disorders or increased rates of help-seeking.
Le modèle chamanique soutient-il l’hypothèse adaptative de l’origine de la religion ?
Authors: Baril Daniel
Published: June 2013

Two diverging evolutionary accounts of religion are centered on explaining the phenomenon as an adaptive advantage versus an emergent phenomenon. In the first account, religion is seen as promoting health, with the link formalized in ancestral shamanism, for example. However, empirical research has not been conclusive in demonstrating a direct adaptive function of religion in this particular respect. The second account views religion as a derived product of non-religious adaptive abilities. This account is more compatible with the composite functions of the entity which is termed “religion.”
Are Workers Who Leave a Job Exposed to Similar Physical Demands as Workers Who Develop Clinically Meaningful Declines in Low-Back Function?
Authors: Ferguson Sue A. , Marras William S. , Lavender Steven A. , Splittstoesser Riley E. , Yang Gang
Published: June 2013

Objective:

The objective is to quantify differences in physical exposures for those who stayed on a job (survivor) versus those who left the job (turnover).

Background:

It has been suggested that high physical job demands lead to greater turnover and that turnover rates may supplement low-back disorder incidence rates in passive surveillance systems.

Method:

A prospective study with 811 participants was conducted. The physical exposure of distribution center work was quantified using a moment monitor. A total of 68 quantitative physical exposure measures in three categories (load, position, and timing) were examined. Low-back health function was quantified using the lumbar motion monitor at baseline and 6-month follow-up.

Results:

There were 365 turnover employees within the 6-month follow-up period and 446 “survivors” who remained on the same job, of which 126 survivors had a clinically meaningful decline in low-back functional performance (cases) and 320 survivors did not have a meaningful decline in low-back functional performance (noncases). Of the job exposure measures, 6% were significantly different between turnover and cases compared to 69% between turnover and noncases. Turnover employees had significantly greater exposure compared to noncases.

Conclusion:

Turnover employees had similar physical job exposures to workers who remained on the job and had a clinically meaningful decline in low-back functional performance. Thus, ergonomists and HR should be aware that high turnover jobs appear to have similar physical exposure as those jobs that put workers at risk for a decline in low-back functional performance.
Mortality and psychiatric disorders among public mental health care clients in Utrecht: A register-based cohort study
Authors: Termorshuizen Fabian , van Bergen Addi PL , Smit Ronald BJ , Smeets Hugo M , van Ameijden Erik JC
Published: June 2013

Background:

Different studies have shown similar or even lower mortality among homeless persons with compared to homeless persons without a severe mental disorder.

Aims:

To clarify the association between presence of a psychiatric diagnosis and mortality among the socially marginalized.

Methods:

The Public Mental health care (PMHc) is a legal task of the municipal authority aiming at prevention and intervention in case of (imminent) homelessness among persons with a serious shortage of self-sufficiency. The data of PMHc clients (N=6,724) and personally matched controls (N=66,247) were linked to the registries of Statistics Netherlands and analysed in a Cox model.

Results:

The increased mortality among PMHc clients, compared to the general population (HR=2.99, 95%-CI: 2.63-3.41), was associated with a broad range of death causes. Clients with a record linkage to the Psychiatric Case Registry Middle Netherlands (‘PMHc+’) had an increased risk of suicide (HR=2.63, 0.99-7.02, P=0.052), but a lower risk of natural death causes (HR=0.71, 0.54-0.92, P=0.011), compared to clients without this record linkage (‘PMHc-’). Compared to controls, however, ‘PMHc-’ clients experienced substantially increased risks of suicide (HR=3.63, 1.42-9.26, P=0.007) and death associated with mental and behavioural disorders (ICD-10 Ch.V) (HR=7.85, 3.54-17.43, P<0.001).

Conclusion:

Psychiatric services may deliver an important contribution to the prevention of premature natural death among the socially marginalized.

Keyphrases

The earlier observed lower mortality among vulnerably housed and homeless persons with a psychiatric diagnosis compared to vulnerably housed and homeless persons without a psychiatric diagnosis appears to be due to a significantly lower risk of natural causes of death. Compared to controls from the general population, vulnerably housed and homeless persons without registered diagnosis at a local psychiatric service have a significantly increased mortality associated both with natural death causes and with suicide and death due to mental and behavioural disorders. Services for mental health care may deliver an important contribution to the prevention of premature death due to somatic disorders among the socially marginalized.
Derivations of energy-based modelling for ply cracking in general symmetric laminates
Authors: McCartney LN
Published: June 2013

Recently, as a part of the third World-Wide Failure Exercise (WWFE-III), the author provided a modelling capability, entitled ‘Energy methods for modelling damage in laminates’, published in this special issue (2013, Vol 20–21, pages 2613–2640). This paper describes full details and the mathematical basis of the author’s methods used to predict the properties of undamaged laminates and the development of damage in laminates, based on an energy balance methodology.
Headache and Co-morbid Pains Associated with TMD Pain in Adolescents
Authors: Nilsson I.-M. , List T. , Drangsholt M.
Published: June 2013

This case-control study evaluated the association of headache and other co-morbid pain with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) pain in adolescents and explored the temporal co-variance of headache and TMD pain. In a population-based sample of 12- to 19-year-olds, 350 patients with self-reported TMD pain and 350 healthy age- and sex-matched individuals were mailed questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, 95% CI, and OR analyses—logistic regression models with TMD pain as the outcome variable and adjusted for age and gender—were used for the analysis of individuals’ responses. Headache, whether defined as once a week or more (OR = 6.6) or as moderate or severe (categorical), was significantly related to TMD pain. Severe headache ( vs. mild) showed stronger associations with TMD (OR = 10.1) than between moderate and mild headache (OR = 5.5). Neck (OR = 4.0) and back (OR = 2.6) pain was also significantly related to TMD pain. When participants were grouped according to headache onset and TMD pain, the highest association between headache and TMD pain was found in the subgroup “Headache onset before TMD pain” (OR 9.4). In conclusion, headache appears to be independently and highly associated with TMD pain in adolescents. Neck pain and somatic complaints were also significantly associated with TMD pain. Headache seems to precede TMD pain in many adolescents with pain.
Microbial ethanol production in postmortem urine sample
Authors: Sutlovic Davorka , Nestic Marina , Kovacic Zdravko , Gusic Stjepan , Mlinarek Tajana , Salamunic Ilza , Sardelic Sanda
Published: June 2013

We present a case in which postmortem blood ethanol concentration was 0.02 g/kg and acetone concentration was 0.51 g/kg, while urine ethanol concentration was 6.0 g/kg and acetone concentration was 0.63 g/kg. In the urine sample, sodium fluoride was not added. The urinary ethanol concentration continued to increase without any remarkable increase of isopropanol concentration and external contamination was excluded. Species of bacteria and yeasts, including Candida glabrata, were isolated from urine and blood samples. A few days after the collection of samples, we received the information that the patient was diabetic and did not receive insulin therapy regularly. To prevent postmortem microbial ethanol production and incorrect diagnosis of the cause of death, it is necessary to add sodium fluoride to blood and urine samples collected from diabetic patients.
Temporal and regional variations in accidental deaths of elderly people in Japan
Authors: Kibayashi Kazuhiko , Shimada Ryo , Nakao Ken-ichiro
Published: June 2013

To ascertain the characteristics of accidental deaths of elderly people in urban and rural areas, we analyzed the deaths of elderly people over the 10-year period from 2000 to 2009, in three geographic areas: nationwide, in the 23 wards of the metropolis of Tokyo, and in Saga prefecture. In addition, to assess the regional variation in accidental deaths of the elderly, we aggregated the numbers of accidental deaths of elderly people for each of Japan’s prefectures in the year 2009 and categorized the deaths by accident type. The results showed that nationwide, deaths due to threats to breathing, falls, and drowning and submersion are increasing, while deaths due to transport accidents are decreasing, indicating a need for measures to prevent deaths from accidents other than transport accidents. In the urban areas of Tokyo’s 23 wards, there is an increasing incidence of deaths due to falls, which is likely due to the high number of structures such as buildings and railway stations that elderly people need to negotiate. In urban areas, measures to reduce the incidence of accidental deaths need to focus on improving the physical environment to help prevent falls. In the rural locality of Saga prefecture, increasing numbers of elderly people are dying by drowning and submersion. The results of analysis of accidents in all prefectures of Japan by accident type show that the causes of accidental deaths of elderly people vary regionally, suggesting that accident prevention measures for elderly people need to consider the characteristics of the locality.
Science Parks and the Co-location of High-tech Small- and Medium-sized Firms in China’s Shenzhen
Authors: Cheng Fangfang , van Oort Frank , Geertman Stan , Hooimeijer Pieter
Published: June 2013

Science parks (SPs) have received special attention as a policy tool to facilitate localised economic growth by attracting high-tech firms, especially small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The effectiveness of this strategy has been called into question. Empirical studies suggest that the benefits of SPs for high-tech firms are limited. While this debate is mainly concentrated in the US and Europe, this paper sheds light on the role of SPs in China. It is found that, despite the presence of alternatives, the locations of high-tech SMEs in the region of Shenzhen are determined by hierarchically structured and governed SPs. This finding supports the notion that SPs can play a positive role in attracting high-tech SMEs. Moreover, these effects occur in the relatively unexplored Chinese context of increasingly liberalised but governed market circumstances, where a mature innovation system is still lacking.
The Contribution of Age to the Static-99 Risk Assessment in a Population-based Prison Sample of Sexual Offenders
Authors: Rettenberger Martin , Haubner-Maclean Tanja , Eher Reinhard
Published: June 2013

The Static-99 is the actuarial risk assessment instrument most commonly used and best validated for sexual offenders. Some research has indicated that the original version of the instrument does not sufficiently cover the influence of age-related decreases in recidivism risk of sexual offenders. Therefore, an age-corrected version, the Static-99R, has been proposed. It includes four age categories compared with only two in the original instrument. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of several age-related variables on the predictive accuracy of the German version of the Static-99 using a population-based sample of prison-released sexual offenders ( N = 1,077). The results indicated that—for the prediction of sexual reoffenses in a population-based prison sample—the original Static-99 performed better than the age-corrected Static-99R. Theoretical and empirical implications for research as well as recommendations for applied risk assessment settings are discussed.
The Lives of Lupe/Lupín
Authors: Cerullo Margaret , Valiño Raziel
Published: June 2013

The life history of a Mexican hombre/mujer (man/woman) who was brutally murdered in her home village in 2007 can best be understood by queering the framework of violence against women or feminicide and emphasizing the impact of neoliberalism and transnational migration on the gender order. Attention to the ways in which “queerness” has entered the vernacular discourses of transnational migration reveals little-noticed dimensions of the epochal transformations through which we are all—differentially—living.

El presente articulo aborda la muerte y la vida de un hombre/mujer, quien fue brutalmente asesinada en el 2007 en un pueblo del centro de México. Argumentamos que esta historica no puede ser entendida sin una perspectiva queer dentro del macro de violencia contra las mujeres o de feminicidios. Además, nuestra explicación ve la importancia del papel que el neoliberalismo y la migración transnacional ha tendio en relación con el orden de género. Prestamos especial atención a como lo queer se ha permeado en los discursos vernaculares sobre la migración transnacional, revelando las dimensiones poco reconocidas de las transformaciones características de esta época, las cuales son vividas por todos, aunque en formas distintas.
Egypt in Transition
Authors: Wafa Dina Mohamed
Published: June 2013

Egypt witnessed an unexpected uprising on 25 January 2011. People took to the streets demanding their rights to freedom, equity and a better economy, and in only 18 days managed to oust President Mubarak, who had held power for 30 years. The transition period is still ongoing with an unfolding of events creating turbulence in the political, social and economic arena. This study looks at the impact of the uprising of 25 January and the subsequent transition in higher education in general, with a focus on the School of Global Affairs and Public Policy (GAPP), Executive Education Unit at the American University in Cairo (AUC). GAPP Executive Education is considered the training arm of the school, providing education and training opportunities that serve to reinforce and reinvigorate professional leadership capacities within government agencies, public institutions, civil society and media organizations in a challenging global environment within Egypt and the region. GAPP Executive Education offers both customized programs and open enrollment programs according to current trends and needs. The unit was established in May 2010, quickly finding itself in a mixed realm of events. As an income-generating unit serving government agencies and public institutions, the transition period in Egypt and the region placed GAPP Executive Education in a test situation to find responsive solutions. The study is divided into five sections: a brief background; role of educational institutes as partners in change; impact of challenging times on structure; impact of economic changes on pedagogy; and the impact of social and political changes.
Getting It On Versus Getting It Over With
Authors: Muise Amy , Impett Emily A. , Desmarais Serge
Published: June 2013

Across three studies, we demonstrate that pursuing sex for approach goals, such as to enhance intimacy, fuels satisfaction and pursuing sex for avoidance goals, such as to avoid disappointing a partner, detracts from satisfaction. In Study 1, we use hypothetical scenarios to provide experimental support for the associations between sexual goals and sexual and relationship satisfaction. In Study 2, a dyadic daily experience study of dating couples, we demonstrate that daily sexual goals are associated with both partners’ daily relationship and sexual satisfaction. In Study 3, a dyadic daily experience study, we replicate the daily associations between sexual goals and satisfaction in a sample of long-term couples, and demonstrate that sexual goals impact partner’s relationship and sexual quality 4 months later. In all studies, the associations between sexual goals and enhanced satisfaction as reported by both partners were mediated by sexual desire. Implications for research on sexual motivation and close relationships are discussed.
When Suppressing One Stereotype Leads to Rebound of Another
Authors: Geeraert Nicolas
Published: June 2013

A known consequence of stereotype suppression is post-suppressional rebound (PSR), an ironic activation of the suppressed stereotype. This is typically explained as an unintended by-product from a dual-process model of mental control. Relying on this model, stereotype rebound is believed to be conceptual. Alternative accounts predict PSR to be featural or procedural. According to the latter account, stereotype rebound would not be limited to the suppressed social category, but could occur for a target from any social category. The occurrence of procedural stereotype rebound was examined across five experiments. Suppression of one particular stereotype consistently led to rebound for social targets belonging to the same or a different stereotype in an essay-writing task (Experiments 1-3) and led to facilitation in recognition of stereotype-consistent words (Experiment 4). Finally, stereotype suppression was shown to impact on assessments of stereotype use but not on heuristic thinking (Experiment 5).
Feeling Entitled to More
Authors: Poon Kai-Tak , Chen Zhansheng , DeWall C. Nathan
Published: June 2013

Five experiments tested whether ostracism increases dishonesty through increased feelings of entitlement. Compared with included and control participants, ostracized participants indicated higher levels of dishonest intentions (Experiments 1-3) and cheated more to take undeserved money in a behavioral task (Experiments 4 and 5). In addition, increased feelings of entitlement mediated the effect of ostracism on dishonesty (Experiments 3-5). Framing ostracism as beneficial weakened the connection between ostracism, entitlement, and dishonest behavior (Experiment 5). Together, these findings highlight the significance of entitlement in explaining when and why ostracism increases dishonest behavior and how to weaken this relationship.
Financial Implications of Local and Nonlocal Rival Isomorphism
Authors: Miller Stewart Robert , Indro Daniel C. , Richards Malika , Chng Daniel Han Ming
Published: June 2013

We develop an isomorphism-signaling framework to explain the likelihood of isomorphic behavior (and nonconformity) by a focal firm toward local rivals and nonlocal rivals and then predict financial performance associated with the action. In the presence of asymmetric information, we predict a causal relationship between rival isomorphism and financial performance that reveals a paradox—that is, we theorize and show conditions in which “conforming” reflected by rival isomorphic behavior is a signal that “separates” high-quality from low-quality firms. We consider a firm’s costs and benefits of local and nonlocal rival isomorphism and assert that a firm can signal its quality, which affects financial performance of the equity offering. We test and find support for our hypotheses using a sample of firms raising capital abroad from 1994 to 2005.
Revisiting How and When Perceived Organizational Support Enhances Taking Charge
Authors: Burnett Meredith F. , Chiaburu Dan S. , Shapiro Debra L. , Li Ning
Published: June 2013

Current theory and research suggest a positive linear relationship between perceived organizational support (POS) and employees’ taking charge, or change-suggesting, behaviors. Via a sample of 89 subordinate-supervisor dyads, we hypothesize and test an inverted U-shaped relationship between employees’ POS and their taking charge behaviors and the likelihood that this curvilinear pattern is accentuated when employees anticipate costs related to their taking charge. Results support both of these patterns. We conclude by discussing our findings’ implications regarding future needed sensitivity on the part of managers as well as management scholars regarding how to gauge optimal levels of POS.