bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case of thyroid storm complicated by acute hepatitis due to propylthiouracil treatment
Authors: Tufton Nicola , Hashim Nazhri , Sze Candy , Waterhouse Mona
Published: August 2015

A 57-year-old female presented 17 days after treatment with radioactive iodine (RAI) for difficult-to-control hyperthyroidism. She was febrile, had a sinus tachycardia, and was clinically thyrotoxic. Her thyroid function tests showed a suppressed TSH <0.02 mU/l, with free thyroxine (FT4) >75 pmol/l and total triiodothyronine (TT3) 6.0 nmol/l. She was diagnosed with thyroid storm and was managed with i.v. fluids, propylthiouracil (PTU) 200 mg four times a day, prednisolone 30 mg once daily and propanolol 10 mg three times a day. She gradually improved over 2 weeks and was discharged home on PTU with β blockade. On clinic review 10 days later, it was noted that, although she was starting to feel better, she had grossly abnormal liver function (alanine transaminase (ALT) 852 U/l, bilirubin 46 μmol/l, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) 303 U/l, international normalized ratio (INR) 0.9, platelets 195×109/l). She was still mildly thyrotoxic (TSH <0.02 mU/l, FT4 31 pmol/l, TT3 1.3 nmol/l). She was diagnosed with acute hepatitis secondary to treatment with PTU. Ultrasound showed mild hepatic steatosis. PTU was stopped and she was managed with fluids and prednisolone 60 mg once daily and continued β blockade. Her liver function gradually improved over 10 days (bilirubin 9 μmol/l, ALT 164 U/l, ALP 195 U/l, INR 0.9, platelets 323×109/l) with conservative management and had normalised by clinic review 3 weeks later. This case highlights the potentially fatal, but rare, complications associated with both RAI and PTU, namely, thyroid storm and acute hepatitis respectively.

Learning points

Thyroid storm is an important, albeit rare, endocrinological emergency.

Thyroid storm following RAI treatment is extremely rare.

Management is with i.v. fluids, β blockade, anti-thyroid drugs and steroids.

High dose glucocorticoid steroids can block the peripheral conversion of T4 to active T3.

Liver dysfunction, acute hepatitis and potential hepatic failure are significant adverse drug reactions known to occur with PTU treatment. Supervising clinicians should be vigilant for evidence of this developing and intervene accordingly.

Clinicians need to be aware of possible interactions between regular paracetamol use and PTU in predisposing to liver impairment.
Ellsworth C. Dougherty: A Pioneer in the Selection ofCaenorhabditis elegansas a Model Organism
Authors: Ferris Howard , Hieb W F
Published: August 2015

Ellsworth Dougherty (1921–1965) was a man of impressive intellectual dimensions and interests; in a relatively short career he contributed enormously as researcher and scholar to the biological knowledge base for selection of Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism in neurobiology, genetics, and molecular biology. He helped guide the choice of strains that were eventually used, and, in particular, he developed the methodology and understanding for the nutrition and axenic culture of nematodes and other organisms. Dougherty insisted upon a concise terminology for culture techniques and coined descriptive neologisms that were justified by their linguistic roots. Among other contributions, he refined the classification system for the Protista.
THE NUMBER OF LIFE YEARS LOST (DALYS) DUE TO PREMATURE MORTALITY IN THE POPULATION OF TOMSK REGION IN 2012
Authors: Kobyakova O. S. , Deev I. A. , Nesvetailo N. Ya. , Boikov V. A. , Shibalkov I. P. , Naumov A. O. , Kulikov E. S. , Starovoitova E. A. , Mazeina S. V.
Published: August 2015

Aim: to calculate the index of years of life lost population due to premature death in the Tomsk region in 2012, and the contribution of various groups of diseases in the total indicator DALY among males and females.  Materials and methods: in the calculation of DALY used the number and the gender and age structure of the population of Tomsk region by 01.01.2012, according to Rosstat. To conduct the calculation of DALY used the methodology presented by the world Bank in the report «Investing in health» in 1993 According to the methodology, the DALY is the number of years of life of the population, lived with disability or other health problems, and lost due to premature death. Results: the total loss of DALYs in the Tomsk region by the end of 2012 amounted 112,3, per 1000 population (11,6±8,9). In the structure of DALYs by cause of death 1st place is occupied by diseases of the circulatory system, 2nd injury and poisoning, 3rd neoplasms. Conclusions: the indicator DALY in the Tomsk region are significantly lower than the Russian Federation as a whole (according to S.A. Leonov - 1.25 times, according to G. Yang - 2 times). The relatively low level of DALYs in the Tomsk region is associated with favourable compared with other regions of the age structure (younger populations). It should also be noted that more than 70% of population live in urban areas, where, as is known, the availability of medical care are higher than in rural.
INDIVIDUAL PRECONSCIOUS AFFECTIVE BIASES TO THREATENING AND APPETITIVE FACIAL STIMULI AND CARDIOVASCULAR STRESS-REACTIVITY
Authors: Aftanas L. I. , Pavlov S. V. , Brak I. V. , Korenek V. V.
Published: August 2015

Aim: to investigate cardiovascular stress-reactivity in association with individual preconscious affective biases to threatening and appetitive facial stimuli. Patients and methods: preconscious affective biases were assessed in healthy individuals (n =38, mean age M =28,10 years, 1SD =8,64) using a modified (masked) version of a pictorial emotional Stroop task (backward masking of the angry, fearful and joyful faces). Results: it was revealed that individual preconscious bias to speeded up perception of angry faces correlates significantly with heightened anxiety, lowered platelet serotonin (5-HT) levels, sustained central overactivation of at rest (as indexed by lowered delta, theta, and beta-1 EEG power over frontal, central and posterior cortical areas) and exaggerated arterial blood pressure stress-reactivity during re-experiencing of personally relevant anger. Conclusions: considering uncovered associations, individuals with preconscious bias to speeded up perception of angry faces may be regarded as having enhanced risk to fall sick with essential hypertension, yet this perceptive bias could be seen as a putative neurobehavioral predictor of the risk.
WHICH PATIENTS WITH OVARIAN CANCER SHOWS THE COMBINATION OF TRABECTEDIN WITH PEGYLATED LIPOSOMAL DOXORUBICIN
Authors: Khokhlova S. V. , Cherkasova M. V. , Orel N. F. , Limareva S. V. , Bazaeva I. Ya. , Gorbunova V. A.
Published: August 2015

Given the high rate of recurrence of ovarian cancer, the search for new therapeutic strategies are topical issue. According to various studies the effectiveness of drug treatment relapse depends on the platinum-free interval, increasing in proportion to its duration. If therapy is platinum-resistant recurrent ovarian cancer is a standard approach, the treatment of platinum-sensitive recurrent algorithm is not fully defined. Comparison of platinum and non-platinum combinations revealed the advantage of combined platinum- treatment for patients with platinum-free interval of more than 6 months without an increase in life expectancy. Non-platinum combination of trabectedin with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin has shown comparable efficacy with an advantage in overall survival in patients with platinum-free interval of 6–12 months. A platinum-free interval prolongation by the use of non-platinum mode increases the efficiency of subsequent platinum-based therapy, increasing the life expectancy of patients . Currently under study molecular markers and prognostic factors allowing to define a group of patients who have the greatest benefit from the use trabectedin with pegylated liposomal doxorubicin as second-line chemotherapy.
ONCOLYTIC PROPERTIES OF SOME ORTHOPOXVIRUSES, ADENOVIRUSES AND PARVOVIRUSES IN HUMAN GLIOMA CELLS
Authors: Razumov I. A. , Svyatchenko V. A. , Protopopova E. V. , Kochneva G. V. , Kiselev N. N. , Gubanova N. V. , Shilov A. G. , Mordvinov V. A. , Netesov S. V. , Chumakov P. M. , Loktev V. B.
Published: August 2015

Currently one of the most promising approaches in development of cancer virotherapy is based on the ability of oncolytic viruses to selective infection and lysis of tumor cells. Aim.The goal of the study was to identify and evaluate perspective oncolytic viruses capable of selectively destroying human glioma cells. Patients and methods. Original GB2m, GA14m and GB22m glioma cell cultures derived from patients were used for evaluating in vitro oncolytic activity of some typical orthopoxviruses, adenoviruses and parvoviruses. Results. The oncolytic activity in the human glioma cell models was confirmed for LIVP and WR strains of vaccinia virus,  Adel2 and Ad2del strains with deletions within E1B/55K gene and derived from human adenoviruses type 2 and 5, respectively. Conclusions. We consider these oncolytic viruses as promising agents for the treatment of human malignant glioma.
HYPOXIC PRECONDITIONING OF STEM CELLS AS A NEW APPROACH TO INCREASE THE EFFICACY OF CELL THERAPY FOR MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
Authors: Maslov L. N. , Podoksenov Yu. K. , Portnichenko A. G. , Naumova A. V.
Published: August 2015

During the last decade, stem cell research has developed at an accelerated pace. Various types of stem cells have been tested for myocardial infarction therapy. Despite the preclinical benefits of cell therapy success in clinical trials remains modest. The main obstacles to regeneration of the infarcted heart using stem cells are: 1) not every stem cell type can differentiate into cardiomyocytes; and 2) low survival rates of transplanted cells, due to the harsh environment of the infarcted myocardium. Hypoxic preconditioning (HP) has been shown to improve transplantation efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells and cardiac progenitor cells in animal models of myocardial infarction. It has also been shown that transplantation of preconditioned cells decreases infarct size, prevents postinfarction remodeling of the heart, and positively modulates development of ischemic cardiomyopathy. Hypoxic preconditioning also prevents extensive death of transplanted cells due to necrosis and apoptosis during long-term hypoxia or oxidative stress. The protective effect of HP is based on three main processes: (1) modification of cell phenotypes to help survival during hypoxia (enhancement of HIF-1α expression, ERK1/2 and Akt activation, enhancement of erythropoietin receptor expression and erythropoietin production, and an elevation in levels of antiapoptotic proteins Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL); (2) upregulation of various secretable factors including the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and expression of VEGF-2 and HGF-receptors; (3) enhancement in the formation of CXCR4 and CXCR7 receptors, which play an important role in mobilization and homing of stem cells in the ischemic region. .
CHANGES OF EPIDERMAL GROWTH FACTOR LEVEL IN BLOOD SERUM, SALIVA AND GASTRIC JUICE IN CHILDREN WITH DUODENAL ULCER
Authors: Zhukova E. A. , Vidmanova T. A. , Viskova I. N. , Kolesov S. A. , Korkotashvili L. V. , Shirokova N. Yu. , Kan'kova N. Yu.
Published: August 2015

92 children, age 8-17 years, with duodenum ulcer were under observation. The peculiarities of EGF level changes in human biological mediums, depending on phase of the disease. The highest EGF level was detected with acute peptic ulcer in the presence of ulcerous defects. EGF level increasing was marked out in the remission phases ulcerous defects healing, and it didn`t reach normal values in gastric juice. EGF content changes in biological mediums were revealed with different variants of duodenum ulcer clinical course in children. The lowest EGF level was marked out in blood, saliva and gastric juice with unfavorable course of the disease (frequent relapses, cicatricial-ulcerous strains formation), which can serve as a prognostic factor.
USE OF MATHEMATICAL MODELS INFRARED SPECTROSCOPY SERUM IN THE DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF ULCERATIVE COLITIS AND CROHN'S DISEASE IN CHILDREN
Authors: Fedulova E. N. , Gordetsov A. S. , Fedorova O. V. , Korkotashvili L. V. , Tutina O. A.
Published: August 2015

Relevance of research. Inflammatory bowel diseases are among the most severe pathologies in pediatric gastroenterology, often lead to disability. Despite the similarity of the clinic, pathogenetic mechanisms, the question of the differential diagnosis of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease is relevant in view of their different prognosis and treatment strategy. In recent years, in medical uses infrared spectroscopy of blood serum for the differential diagnosis of various inflammatory diseases, benign and malignant tumors. Besides finding increasing application of mathematical methods for data processing, the so-called mathematical modeling of pathological processes, allowing objectify the survey results for a more accurate diagnosis and prognosis of pathological processes. Objective: improving the differential diagnosis of ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease in children. Patients: 21 children with ulcerative colitis, 56 children with Crohn's disease and 34 healthy children. The method of infrared spectroscopy of serum and mathematical modeling results through multivariate entropy analysis. Results: the obtained spectral characteristics of blood serum in children with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease and in healthy children, as well as "images of disease" in these pathologies. Conclusion: The use of this medical technology reduced the time of diagnosis, which contributes to the timely choice of rational treatment strategies and provides an opportunity to avoid the development of complications, worsening of the disease.
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER TO THE FACILITY FOR PRODUCTION OF MEDICINES
Authors: Beregovykh V. V. , Spitskii O. R.
Published: August 2015

Innovation development of pharmaceutical industry is close connected to knowledge transfer going to each subsequent life cycle phase of medicinal product. Formal regulation of technology and knowledge transfer is essential for achievement high quality during production of medicines designed during development phase. Conceptual tools, approaches and requirements are considered that are necessary for knowledge and technology transfer across all the life cycle phases of medicines. They are based on scientific knowledge of medicinal products and take into account both international and Russian regulations in the area of development, production and distribution of medicines. Importance of taking into consideration all aspects related to quality of medicines in all steps of technology transfer is shown. An approach is described for technology transfer organization for Russian pharmaceutical manufacturers based on international guides in this area.
ROLE OF THE GENETIC FACTORS, DETOXICATION SYSTEMS AND OXIDATIVE STRESS IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND INFERTILITY (REVIEW)
Authors: Dubinskaya E. D. , Gasparov A. S. , Fedorova T. A. , Lapteva N. V.
Published: August 2015

The aim of this paper is to provide a systematic review of the role of the genetic factors, detoxication systems and oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and infertility. Endometriosis and infertility are still both the most uncommon diseases in gynecology. Many aspects of female reproductive function are strongly influenced by genetic factors, and numerous studies have attempted to identify susceptibility genes for disorders affecting female fertility such as polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, fibroids, cancer (ovarian, vulvar, cervical), premature ovarian failure, recurrent pregnancy loss and pre-eclampsia. The most solid evidence linking specific polymorphisms to endometriosis is showed by the studies investigating a phase II detoxification enzyme. No data were found concerning influences of the genetic factors on the female infertility. Contrary, a lot of studies devoted to the genetic factors of male infertility are presented. It’s known that endometriosis associated with increased systemic oxidative stress. The implication of increased systemic oxidative stress in disease progression or the association with other oxidative stress-related pathologic conditions needs to be addressed in further studies. The majority of studies suggest a reduced antioxidant capacity in infertile women with endometriosis. In the present review we discussed the role of the genetic factors in the pathogenesis of endometriosis and infertility. NAT2 polimorphism, xenobiotic methabolism and exogenous factors are somehow related with these diseases. An altered balance between pro-oxidant and antioxidant activities may have an impact on folliculogenesis and adequate embryo development.
ROLE OF HEPATOPROTECTORS AND IMMUNOMODULATORS IN REGULATION OF HEPATOCYTE APOPTOSIS INDUCED BY ANTITUBERCULOSIS TREATMENT
Authors: Sukhanov D. S. , Bazhanova E. D. , Teplyi D. L.
Published: August 2015

It was currently shown that hepatopathy due to drug toxicity is associated with increased apoptosis of hepatocytes. Therefore, development of drugs which regulate cell death is of great importance. Aim: to involve some hepatoprotectors (ademethionine, reamberin, remaxol) and immunomodulators (cycloferon) into regulation of apoptosis in experimental models of liver first-line antituberculousis drugs (isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide). Materials and methods: levels of apoptosis (TUNEL), expression of CD95 (receptor of tumor necrosis factor ― by immunohistochemistry), expression of caspase-8, caspase-3 and p53 (Western-blotting) were measured. Results: exposition of first-line antituberculousis drugs leads to dysthrophia of liver parenchyma cells with increased apoptosis of hepatocytes and activation of CD95, caspase-8 (external way) and overexpression of p53 and caspase-3. It was found that reamberin, cycloferon and remaxol have hepatoprotective effect improving liver histology; ademethionine administered by intraperitoneal injection showed no positive effects. Reamberin demonstrated apoptosis-inhibiting effect in the experiment whereas other drugs were found to be apoptosis inductors for hepatocytes in toxic hepatopathy. Conclusions: regulation of apoptosis by cycloferon and remaxol mediated by external and p53-dependent pathway is confirmed by increased expression of CD95 and p53 protein. Ademethionine might induce apoptosis by the intrinsic pathway.
RECENT ADVANCES IN THE STUDY OF THE STEM CELLS MIGRATION METHODS
Authors: Poveshchenko A. F. , Poveshchenko O. V. , Konenkov V. I.
Published: August 2015

Review is devoted to a comparative analysis of stem cells migration methods for studying in experimental conditions and clinics, assessing their strengths and weaknesses. It is impossible to single out any one preferred method for studying the migration of stem cells. Each method has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. X-ray methods " suffer" from non-specific binding of contrast marks, followed by rapid degradation and the release of the body. If it is necessary to study the migration of the transplanted stem cells for a long time interval, the visualization of the reporter gene is the best available techniques, since it can provide a non-invasive real time monitoring of the location in the tissue and stem cells isolated help assess their viability and proliferation. The most attractive of the agents for monitoring - endogenous, i.e. natural constituents stem cells, for example, genetic markers. Criteria for the application of methods to study migration in clinical and experimental results have significant differences. The main criteria for the methods of the study of cell migration in clinical settings, it must be biocompatible, safe, non-toxic, non-invasive. Accordingly, the main criteria for the experimental methods for studying the migration will be accuracy, the ability to quantify the long-term migration of cells and stability of the "label".
Los movimientos migratorios y la simbología del territorio en La luna siempre será un amor difícil de L. H. Crosthwaite
Authors: Ábrego Perla
Published: August 2015

N/A
N. Michelle Shepherd
Authors: Shepherd N. Michelle
Published: August 2015

N/A
Extranodal Marginal Zone Lymphoma of Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue of the Salivary Glands: A Multicenter, International Experience of 248 Patients (IELSG 41)
Authors: Jackson Amie E. , Mian Michael , Kalpadakis Christina , Pangalis Gerassimos A. , Stathis Anastasios , Porro Elena , Conconi Annarita , Cortelazzo Sergio , Gaidano Gianluca , Guillermo Armando Lopez , Johnson Peter W. , Martelli Maurizio , Martinelli Giovanni , Thieblemont Catherine , McPhail Ellen D. , Copie-Bergman Christiane , Pileri Stefano A. , Jack Andrew , Campo Elias , Mazzucchelli Luca , Ristow Kay , Habermann Thomas M. , Cavalli Franco , Nowakowski Grzegorz S. , Zucca Emanuele
Published: August 2015

Background.

The salivary gland is one of the most common sites involved by nongastric, extranodal marginal zone lymphomas of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT). A large series of patients with long-term follow-up has not been documented. This multicenter, international study sought to characterize the clinical characteristics, treatment, and natural history of salivary gland MALT lymphoma.

Methods.

Patients with biopsy-confirmed salivary gland MALT lymphoma were identified from multiple international sites. Risk factors, treatment, and long-term outcomes were evaluated.

Results.

A total of 247 patients were evaluated; 76% presented with limited-stage disease. There was a history of autoimmune disorder in 41%, with Sjögren disease being the most common (83%). Fifty-seven percent of patients were initially treated with local therapy with surgery, radiation, or both; 37 of patients were treated with systemic therapy initially, with 47% of those receiving rituximab; and 6% of patients were observed. The median overall survival (OS) was 18.3 years. The median progression-free survival (PFS) following primary therapy was 9.3 years. There was no difference in the outcomes between patients receiving local or systemic therapy in first-line management. On multivariate analysis, age <60 years and low to intermediate international prognostic index were associated with improved OS and PFS; Sjögren disease was associated with improved OS.

Conclusion.

Salivary gland MALT lymphoma has an excellent prognosis regardless of initial treatment, and patients with Sjögren disease have improved survival. Risks for long-term complications must be weighed when determining initial therapy.

Implications for Practice:

Patients with salivary gland extranodal marginal zone lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) have an excellent prognosis, particularly those with associated Sjögren's disease. A wide range of available therapies may provide similar durable rates of disease control and survival. Therefore, an important goal in selection of therapy should be to minimize morbidity from treatment. When determining initial therapy for these patients, practitioners should consider the potential side effects and long-term toxicities of treatment.
Adjuvant Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Lourdes Laura S. , Jalal Shadia I. , Hanna Nasser
Published: August 2015

Nonrandomized studies have suggested a potential benefit with use of an EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor in the adjuvant setting in patients with EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer. These nonrandomized studies cannot substitute for well-conducted, adequately powered, prospectively randomized phase III trials. Such trials are under way, and their results are eagerly anticipated.
Realized Bank Risk during the Great Recession
Authors: Altunbas Yener , Manganelli Simone , Marques-Ibanez David
Published: August 2015

In the years preceding the 2007-2009 financial crisis, forward-looking indicators of bank risk concentrated and suggested unusually low expectations of bank default. We assess whether the ex-ante (i.e. prior to the crisis) cross-sectional variability in bank characteristics is related to the ex-post (i.e. during the crisis) materialization of bank risk. Our tailor-made dataset crucially accounts for the different dimensions of realized bank risk including access to central bank liquidity during the crisis. We consistently find that less reliance on deposit funding, more aggressive credit growth, larger size and leverage were associated with larger levels of realized risk. The impact of these characteristics is particularly relevant for capturing the systemic dimensions of bank risk and tends to become stronger for the tail of the riskier banks. The majority of these characteristics also predicted bank risk as materialized before the financial crisis.
Securitization and Lending Standards: Evidence from the European Wholesale Loan Market
Authors: Kara Alper , Marques-Ibanez David , Ongena Steven
Published: August 2015

We assess the effect of securitization activity on banks’ lending rates employing a uniquely detailed dataset from the euro-denominated syndicated loan market. We find that, in the run up to the 2007-2009 crisis banks that were more active at originating asset-backed securities did not price their loans more aggressively (i.e. with narrower lending spreads) than less-active banks. Using a unique feature of our dataset, we show that also within the set of loans that were previously securitized, the relative level of securitization activity by the originating bank is not related to narrower lending spreads. Our results suggest that while the credit cycle seems to have a major impact of lending standards, the effect of securitization activity appears to be very limited.
An Empirical Study of Audit Expectation Gap in Hungary
Authors: Füredi-Fülöp Judit
Published: August 2015

The audit expectation gap has preoccupied the finance and accounting profession for a long time. Considerable research has been conducted into this issue and attempts have been made to provide an accurate definition of the audit expectation gap, model this concept and assess the possibilities of its narrowing. Also, a number of studies investigate whether there is an audit expectation gap in several researched regions. The objectives of empirical studies on the structure and nature of the audit expectation gap aim at recognising the actual existing and expected roles and responsibilities of auditors as well as identifying the factors, that contribute to the existence of the audit expectation gap in a society.The findings of international research on the audit expectation gap cannot directly be applied to a particular country without further investigation. Nor can they be applied in Hungary. This is because economic, social and legal factors of a specific country have a considerable impact on research results and might even distort them. Therefore, the objective of this research is to identify the causes and the typical composition of the audit expectation gap in Hungary in order to enable us to find appropriate combinations of solutions for narrowing the expectation gap.
Capa e Contracapa
Authors: Santos Alvaro
Published: August 2015

V3.N3.2015
Effectiveness of Laser Application for Periodontal Surgical Therapy: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Behdin Shabnam , Monje Alberto , Lin Guo‐Hao , Edwards Bruce , Othman Abdullah , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: August 2015

Background: Evidence has shown some improved clinical outcomes and morbidity reduction with the use of lasers for non‐surgical periodontal therapy due to ablation, vaporization, hemostasis, and field sterilization. The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate and compare studies involving lasers as monotherapy or adjunctive to surgical periodontal treatment.

Methods: Electronic and manual searches were conducted by two independent reviewers in several databases for articles written in English up to December 2014. Articles were included in this review if they reported outcomes of surgical periodontal therapy with and without the use of lasers. The primary outcome was probing depth (PD), and secondary outcomes were measured changes in clinical factors such as clinical attachment level (CAL) and gingival recession (GR). For the comparative studies included, the pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of each variable were calculated using random‐effects meta‐analysis.

Results: Eight and nine articles were included in the quantitative and qualitative analyses, respectively. Although low‐to‐moderate risk of bias was detected, high heterogeneity among studies was found. In flap surgery with or without laser treatment, there was no statistically significant difference in primary outcome. Similarly, in guided tissue regeneration (GTR)/enamel matrix derivative (EMD) with and without laser treatment, the WMD of PD was negligible; however, the GTR/EMD group showed better outcomes (P = 0.005) than the laser group. Regarding the secondary outcomes, in the flap surgery group, the WMD of CAL gain was 1.34 mm, and the WMD of GR was −0.24 mm; no significant difference was detected between groups. In GTR/EMD with and without laser treatment, the WMD of CAL gain was 0.10 mm and the WMD of recession was −0.18 mm; again, no significant difference was detected between groups.

Conclusions: The available evidence is insufficient to support the effectiveness of dental lasers as an adjunct to resective or regenerative surgical periodontal therapy. However, precautions must be exercised when interpreting the results of this study because of the small sample size and high heterogeneity among studies.
Physiologic Levels of Endogenous Hydrogen Sulfide Maintain the Proliferation and Differentiation Capacity of Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells
Authors: Su Yingying , Liu Dayong , Liu Yi , Zhang Chunmei , Wang Jinsong , Wang Songlin
Published: August 2015

Background: Many invading oral bacteria are known to produce considerable amounts of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). The toxic activity of exogenous H2S in periodontal tissue has been demonstrated, but the role of endogenous H2S in the physiologic function of periodontal tissue remains poorly understood. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the biologic functions of H2S in the proliferation and differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs).

Methods: PDLSCs were isolated from periodontal ligament tissues of periodontally healthy volunteers or patients with periodontitis. Immunocytochemical staining, flow cytometry, and Western blot analysis were used to examine the expression of H2S‐synthesizing enzymes cystathionine‐β‐synthase (CBS) and cystathionine‐γ‐lyase (CSE). The proliferation capacity of PDLSCs was determined by cell counting kit‐8 assay, carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester analysis, and 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine assay. The osteogenic potential of PDLSCs was tested using alkaline phosphatase staining, Alizarin Red staining, and in vivo transplantation experiments. Oil Red O staining was used to analyze adipogenic ability.

Results: The results show that human PDLSCs express both CBS and CSE and produce H2S. Blocking the generation of endogenous H2S with CBS inhibitor hydroxylamine significantly attenuated PDLSC proliferation and reduced the osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation capacity of PDLSCs. In contrast, CSE inhibitor dl‐propargylglycine had no effect on PDLSC function. Exogenous H2S could inhibit the production of endogenous H2S and impair PDLSC function in a dose‐dependent manner.

Conclusion: Physiologic levels of endogenous H2S maintain the proliferation and differentiation capacity of PDLSCs, and CBS may be the main source of endogenous H2S in PDLSCs.
The Contribution of Missed Clinic Visits to Disparities in HIV Viral Load Outcomes
Authors: Zinski Anne , Westfall Andrew O. , Gardner Lytt I. , Giordano Thomas P. , Wilson Tracey E. , Drainoni Mari-Lynn , Keruly Jeanne C. , Rodriguez Allan E. , Malitz Faye , Batey D. Scott , Mugavero Michael J.
Published: August 2015

Objectives. We explored the contribution of missed primary HIV care visits (“no-show”) to observed disparities in virological failure (VF) among Black persons and persons with injection drug use (IDU) history.

Methods. We used patient-level data from 6 academic clinics, before the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Health Resources and Services Administration Retention in Care intervention. We employed staged multivariable logistic regression and multivariable models stratified by no-show visit frequency to evaluate the association of sociodemographic factors with VF. We used multiple imputations to assign missing viral load values.

Results. Among 10 053 patients (mean age = 46 years; 35% female; 64% Black; 15% with IDU history), 31% experienced VF. Although Black patients and patients with IDU history were significantly more likely to experience VF in initial analyses, race and IDU parameter estimates were attenuated after sequential addition of no-show frequency. In stratified models, race and IDU were not statistically significantly associated with VF at any no-show level.

Conclusions. Because missed clinic visits contributed to observed differences in viral load outcomes among Black and IDU patients, achieving an improved understanding of differential visit attendance is imperative to reducing disparities in HIV.
Sharing a Playbook: Integrated Care in Community Health Centers in the United States
Authors: Jones Emily B. , Ku Leighton
Published: August 2015

Objectives. We investigated basic measures used to assess collaboration between colocated providers and to gauge the extent to which health centers practice integrated care.

Methods. We used the Assessment of Behavioral Health Services survey and the 2010 Uniform Data System to explore the elements of integrated care for behavioral health conditions. We used multivariable regression models to examine the correlates of integrated care.

Results. More than 85% of health centers provided mental health services in 2010, and almost half offered substance use treatment. Health centers commonly reported shared access to information among behavioral health and medical providers and joint care planning. A higher degree of integrated care involving joint case conferences was less common. Health centers without electronic health records and those with lower percentages of total staff composed of behavioral health workers were less likely to provide integrated care.

Conclusions. A 2-pronged strategy involving financial incentives and technical assistance to spread best practices might increase integrated care, particularly among health centers that are not maximizing the potential of electronic health records and health centers with low behavioral health staffing levels.
“We’ll Get to You When We Get to You”: Exploring Potential Contributions of Health Care Staff Behaviors to Patient Perceptions of Discrimination and Satisfaction
Authors: Tajeu Gabriel S. , Cherrington Andrea L. , Andreae Lynn , Prince Candice , Holt Cheryl L. , Halanych Jewell H.
Published: August 2015

Objectives. We qualitatively assessed patients’ perceptions of discrimination and patient satisfaction in the health care setting specific to interactions with nonphysician health care staff.

Methods. We conducted 12 focus-group interviews with African American and European American participants, stratified by race and gender, from June to November 2008. We used a topic guide to facilitate discussion and identify factors contributing to perceived discrimination and analyzed transcripts for relevant themes using a codebook.

Results. We enrolled 92 participants: 55 African Americans and 37 European Americans, all of whom reported perceived discrimination and lower patient satisfaction as a result of interactions with nonphysician health care staff. Perceived discrimination was associated with 2 main characteristics: insurance or socioeconomic status and race. Both verbal and nonverbal communication style on the part of nonphysician health care staff were related to individuals’ perceptions of how they were treated.

Conclusions. The behaviors of nonphysician health care staff in the clinical setting can potentially contribute to patients’ perceptions of discrimination and lowered patient satisfaction. Future interventions to reduce health care discrimination should include a focus on staff cultural competence and customer service skills.
The Relationship Between Financial Distress and Life-Course Socioeconomic Inequalities in Well-Being: Cross-National Analysis of European Welfare States
Authors: Niedzwiedz Claire L. , Pell Jill P. , Mitchell Richard
Published: August 2015

Objectives. We investigated to what extent current financial distress explains the relationship between life-course socioeconomic position and well-being in Southern, Scandinavian, Postcommunist, and Bismarckian welfare regimes.

Methods. We analyzed individuals (n = 18 324) aged 50 to 75 years in the Survey of Health, Ageing, and Retirement in Europe, 2006–2009. Well-being was measured with CASP-12 (which stands for control, autonomy, self-realization, and pleasure) and life satisfaction. We generated a life-course socioeconomic index from 8 variables and calculated multilevel regression models (containing individuals nested within 13 countries), as well as stratified single-level models by welfare regime.

Results. Life-course socioeconomic advantage was related to higher well-being; the difference in life satisfaction between the most and least advantaged was 2.09 (95% confidence interval = 1.87, 2.31) among women and 1.65 (95% confidence interval = 1.43, 1.87) among men. The weakest associations were found among Scandinavian countries. Financial distress was associated with lower well-being and attenuated the relationship between life-course socioeconomic position and well-being in all regimes (ranging from 34.26% in Postcommunist to 72.22% in Scandinavian countries).

Conclusions. We found narrower inequalities in well-being in the Scandinavian regime. Reducing financial distress may help improve well-being and reduce inequalities.
Modeling the Movement of Homicide by Type to Inform Public Health Prevention Efforts
Authors: Zeoli April M. , Grady Sue , Pizarro Jesenia M. , Melde Chris
Published: August 2015

Objectives. We modeled the spatiotemporal movement of hotspot clusters of homicide by motive in Newark, New Jersey, to investigate whether different homicide types have different patterns of clustering and movement.

Methods. We obtained homicide data from the Newark Police Department Homicide Unit’s investigative files from 1997 through 2007 (n = 560). We geocoded the address at which each homicide victim was found and recorded the date of and the motive for the homicide. We used cluster detection software to model the spatiotemporal movement of statistically significant homicide clusters by motive, using census tract and month of occurrence as the spatial and temporal units of analysis.

Results. Gang-motivated homicides showed evidence of clustering and diffusion through Newark. Additionally, gang-motivated homicide clusters overlapped to a degree with revenge and drug-motivated homicide clusters. Escalating dispute and nonintimate familial homicides clustered; however, there was no evidence of diffusion. Intimate partner and robbery homicides did not cluster.

Conclusions. By tracking how homicide types diffuse through communities and determining which places have ongoing or emerging homicide problems by type, we can better inform the deployment of prevention and intervention efforts.
Drawing the Curtain Back on Injured Commercial Bicyclists
Authors: Heyer Jessica H. , Sethi Monica , Wall Stephen P. , Ayoung-Chee Patricia , Slaughter Dekeya , Jacko Sally , DiMaggio Charles J. , Frangos Spiros G.
Published: August 2015

Objectives. We determined the demographic characteristics, behaviors, injuries, and outcomes of commercial bicyclists who were injured while navigating New York City’s (NYC’s) central business district.

Methods. Our study involved a secondary analysis of prospectively collected data from a level 1 regional trauma center in 2008 to 2014 of bicyclists struck by motor vehicles. We performed univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses.

Results. Of 819 injured bicyclists, 284 (34.7%) were working. Commercial bicyclists included 24.4% to 45.1% of injured bicyclists annually. Injured commercial bicyclists were more likely Latino (56.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 50.7, 62.8 vs 22.7%; 95% CI = 19.2, 26.5). Commercial bicyclists were less likely to be distracted by electronic devices (5.0%; 95% CI = 2.7, 8.2 vs 12.7%; 95% CI = 9.9, 15.9) or to have consumed alcohol (0.7%; 95% CI = 0.9, 2.5 vs 9.5%; 95% CI = 7.2, 12.3). Commercial and noncommercial bicyclists did not differ in helmet use (38.4%; 95% CI = 32.7, 44.4 vs 30.8%; 95% CI = 26.9, 34.9). Injury severity scores were less severe in commercial bicyclists (odds ratio = 0.412; 95% CI = 0.235, 0.723).

Conclusions. Commercial bicyclists represent a unique cohort of vulnerable roadway users. In NYC, minorities, especially Latinos, should be targeted for safety education programs.
A Systems Approach to Improving Tdap Immunization Within 5 Community-Based Family Practice Settings: Working Differently (and Better) by Transforming the Structure and Process of Care
Authors: Shultz Cameron G. , Malouin Jean M. , Green Lee A. , Plegue Melissa , Greenberg Grant M.
Published: August 2015

Objectives. We examined how family medicine clinic physicians and staff worked in collaborative teams to implement an automated clinical reminder to improve tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis (Tdap) booster vaccine administration and documentation.

Methods. A clinical reminder was developed at 5 University of Michigan family medicine clinics to identify patients 11 to 64 years old who were in need of the Tdap booster vaccine. Quality improvement cycles were used to improve clinic care processes. Immunization rates from 2008 to 2011 were compared with rates at 4 primary care control clinics.

Results. Vaccination rates among eligible patients increased from 15.5% to 47.3% within the family medicine clinics and from 14.1% to 30.2% within the control clinics. After adjustment for covariates, family medicine patients had a higher probability of vaccination than control patients during each measurement period (0.17 vs 0.15 at baseline, 0.53 vs 0.22 during year 1, and 0.50 vs 0.30 during year 2).

Conclusions. Automated clinical reminders, when designed and implemented via a consensus-based framework that addresses the process of care, can dramatically improve provision of preventive health care.
Indicated Prevention of Childhood Anxiety and Depression: Results From a Practice-Based Study up to 12 Months After Intervention
Authors: Kösters Mia P. , Chinapaw Mai J. M. , Zwaanswijk Marieke , van der Wal Marcel F. , Koot Hans M.
Published: August 2015

Objectives. We investigated whether intervention effects of FRIENDS for Life, a school-based prevention program for children with anxiety or depression symptoms, were maintained over a period of 12 months after the intervention in a naturalistic setting.

Methods. We used a quasi-experimental design, with 339 children in the intervention group and 157 in the control group (aged 8–13 years) in schools in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. We collected self-, teacher, and peer reports of anxiety and depression scores before and after intervention, and 6 and 12 months after intervention, from 2010 to 2012.

Results. Intervention-group children reported a continuing and significant decrease in anxiety and depression scores compared with the control group. Twelve months after the intervention, participants’ anxiety and depression levels were comparable to those of the general population. Girls reported a stronger decrease in anxiety scores than did boys. Teacher reports suggested no effects. Although classmates reported increased internalizing problems in intervention-group children immediately after intervention, these effects disappeared over time.

Conclusions. FRIENDS for Life, an indicated prevention program, yielded long-lasting and continuing reduction in anxiety and depression problems when implemented in daily school practice.
Firearm Prevalence and Homicides of Law Enforcement Officers in the United States
Authors: Swedler David I. , Simmons Molly M. , Dominici Francesca , Hemenway David
Published: August 2015

Objectives. In the United States, state firearm ownership has been correlated with homicide rates. More than 90% of homicides of law enforcement officers (LEOs) are committed with firearms. We examined the relationship between state firearm ownership rates and LEO occupational homicide rates.

Methods. We obtained the number LEOs killed from 1996 to 2010 from a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) database. We calculated homicide rates per state as the number of officers killed per number of LEOs per state, obtained from another FBI database. We obtained the mean household firearm ownership for each state from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System.

Results. Using Poisson regression and controlling for factors known to affect homicide rates, we associated firearm ownership with the homicide rates for LEOs (incidence rate ratio = 1.044; P = .005); our results were supported by cross-sectional and longitudinal sensitivity analyses. LEO homicide rates were 3 times higher in states with high firearm ownership compared with states with low firearm ownership.

Conclusions. High public gun ownership is a risk for occupational mortality for LEOs in the United States. States could consider methods for reducing firearm ownership as a way to reduce occupational deaths of LEOs.
Suicide Rates and State Laws Regulating Access and Exposure to Handguns
Authors: Anestis Michael D. , Anestis Joye C.
Published: August 2015

Objectives. Using previous research, we examined the impact of 4 handgun laws (waiting periods, universal background checks, gun locks, and open carrying regulations) on suicide rates.

Methods. We used publicly available databases to collect information on statewide laws, suicide rates, and demographic characteristics for 2013.

Results. Each law was associated with significantly lower firearm suicide rates and the proportion of suicides resulting from firearms. In addition, each law, except for that which required a waiting period, was associated with a lower overall suicide rate. Follow-up analyses showed a significant indirect effect on overall suicide rates through the proportion of suicides by firearms, indicating that the reduced overall suicide rate was attributable to fewer suicide attempts, fewer handguns in the home, suicide attempts using less lethal means, or a combination of these factors. States that implemented any of these laws saw a decreased suicide rate in subsequent years, whereas the only state that repealed 1 of these laws saw an increased suicide rate.

Conclusions. Our results were supportive of a potentially vital role in suicide prevention for state legislation that limits access and exposure to handguns.