bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outpatient hysteroscopy: Factors influencing post‐procedure acceptability in patients attending a tertiary referral centre
Authors: MCILWAINE Kate , READMAN Emma , CAMERON Melissa , MAHER Peter
Published: December 2009

Background:  Ambulatory hysteroscopy is a safe, reliable and cost‐effective alternative to hysteroscopy under a general anaesthetic for the diagnosis of abnormal uterine bleeding.

Aim:  The objective of this study was to assess which factors influenced patients’ willingness to attend for future outpatient hysteroscopy. The outpatient hysteroscopy service commenced at the Mercy Hospital for Women in 2000. It provides women with the opportunity to have the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding diagnosed in an outpatient setting.

Methods:  A prospective audit was conducted of 283 women attending for outpatient hysteroscopy at the Mercy Hospital for Women over a period of almost five years (May 2003 through February 2008).

Results:  Of the women audited, 88.7% stated that they would accept the procedure in future, whilst 11.3% would not. There was a significant difference between the two groups with respect to their median visual analogue pain scale (VAS) pain scores during the procedure (3.00 versus 6.50 P < 0.0001) with the higher score in the group who would not re‐attend for the procedure. There was also a significant difference between the two groups with respect to the change in median VAS score from pain anticipated to pain experienced (0.00 versus 3.50 P = 0.0001). The rate of unsuccessful procedures was significantly higher (40.6% versus 0.8%P < 0.05) in future non‐attendees as well as a higher rate of clinical vasovagal episodes (25% versus 5.2%P = 0.01) in women who stated that they would not re‐attend for the procedure. Preprocedure analgesia and type of anaesthetic administered during the procedure did not seem to influence whether women would attend for outpatient hysteroscopy in future.

Conclusions:  The acceptability rate for women attending for outpatient hysteroscopy during the audit period was 88.7%. Pain was a significant determinant of procedure acceptability; however, the acceptability rate was not influenced by analgesia or type of anaesthetic administered.
Trends and determinants of caesarean sections births in Queensland, 1997–2006
Authors: HOWELL Stuart , JOHNSTON Trisha , MACLEOD Sue‐Lynne
Published: December 2009

Background:  The determinants of Queensland’s rising caesarean section (CS) rate remain poorly understood because of the historical absence of standard classification methods.

Aims:  We applied the Robson Ten Group Classification System (RTGCS) to population‐based data to identify the main contributors to Queensland’s rising CS rate.

Method:  The RTGCS was applied retrospectively to the Queensland Perinatal Data Collection. CS rates were described for all ten RTGCS groups using data from 2006. Trends were evaluated using data for the years 1997–2006. Public and private sector patients were evaluated separately.

Results:  In Queensland, in 2006, CS rates were 26.9 and 48.0% among public and private sector patients, respectively. Multiparous women with a previous caesarean birth (Group 5) made the greatest contribution to the CS rate in both sectors, followed by nulliparous women who had labour induced or were delivered by CS prior to the onset of labour (Group 2) and nulliparous women in spontaneous labour (Group 1). CS rates have risen in all RTGCS groups between 1997 and 2006. The trend was pronounced among multiparous women with a previous caesarean delivery (Group 5), among women with multiple pregnancies (Group 8) and among nulliparous women who had labour induced or were delivered by CS prior to the onset of labour (Group 2).

Conclusions:  The CS rate in Queensland in 2006 was higher than in any other Australian state. The increase in Queensland’s CS rates can be attributed to both the rising number of primary caesarean births and the rising number of repeat caesareans.
A long‐term follow‐up study of Dravet syndrome up to adulthood
Authors: Akiyama Mari , Kobayashi Katsuhiro , Yoshinaga Harumi , Ohtsuka Yoko
Published: December 2009

Purpose:  We intended to elucidate the whole clinical course of Dravet syndrome (DS) comprehensively, from infancy through adulthood.

Methods:  Subjects were 31 patients with DS (14 with typical DS, and 17 with borderline DS) who were followed from childhood to at least 18 years of age. Their seizures, abilities, and electroencephalography (EEG) findings were investigated and statistically analyzed.

Results:  The clinical findings of the patients with typical DS and those with borderline DS became largely similar in adolescence and adulthood. Seizures were intractable in childhood in all patients, but suppressed in five (16.1%) during follow‐up. Thirty‐five (87.5%) of the 40 apparently generalized convulsive seizures that were captured by ictal EEG recording at 7 years of age or later were of focal origin. The seizure‐free outcomes were significantly correlated with the experience of <3 episodes of convulsive status epilepticus, and also with disappearance of spikes on the follow‐up EEGs. Mental outcomes involving less severe intellectual disability were correlated with the presence of occipital alpha rhythms in the background activity of the follow‐up EEGs. Mean age at the recording of the follow‐up EEGs was 23.8 years.

Discussion:  Prevention of the occurrence of convulsive status epilepticus was indicated to be critically important for the improvement of seizure prognosis in DS.
High‐density SNP screen of sodium channel genes by haplotype tagging and DNA pooling for association with idiopathic generalized epilepsy
Authors: Makoff Andrew , Lai Teck , Barratt Catherine , Valentin Antonio , Moran Nick , Asherson Philip , Nashef Lina
Published: December 2009

We have investigated seven voltage‐gated sodium channel genes for association with idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE). Probands and control DNA were grouped into pools and used to screen 85 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), mostly HapMap SNPs tagging the common variation in these genes. Twelve SNPs exhibiting an allele frequency difference between pools were genotyped individually in our sample of 232 probands, 313 controls, and 95 parent–proband trios. Two SNPs, in SCN1A and SCN8A, were associated by allele and genotype at nominal level of significance, but were not significant after Bonferroni correction. Two SCN2A SNPs (rs3943809 and rs16850331) were associated by case–control with a subgroup with IGE and history of febrile seizures and also by transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) in parent–proband trios. Both SNPs are part of a linkage disequilibrium (LD) cluster of 38 SNPs, but none are obvious functional variants. The association of rs3943809 with the febrile seizure subgroup (p = 0.0004) remains significant after the conservative Bonferroni correction for multiple testing.
Cortical Thickness Reduction of Normal Appearing Cortex in Patients with Polymicrogyria
Authors: Oliveira Jr Pedro Paulo de Magalhães , Valente Kette Dualibi , Shergill Sukhwinder S. , Leite Claudia da Costa , Amaro Jr Edson
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVE

To examine cortical thickness and volumetric changes in the cortex of patients with polymicrogyria, using an automated image analysis algorithm.

METHODS

Cortical thickness of patients with polymicrogyria was measured using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) cortical surface‐based analysis and compared with age‐ and sex‐matched healthy subjects. We studied 3 patients with disorder of cortical development (DCD), classified as polymicrogyria, and 15 controls. Two experienced neuroradiologists performed a conventional visual assessment of the MRIs. The same data were analyzed using an automated algorithm for tissue segmentation and classification. Group and individual average maps of cortical thickness differences were produced by cortical surface‐based statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Patients with polymicrogyria showed increased thickness of the cortex in the same areas identified as abnormal by radiologists. We also identified a reduction in the volume and thickness of cortex within additional areas of apparently normal cortex relative to controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that there may be regions of reduced cortical thickness, which appear normal from radiological analysis, in the cortex of patients with polymicrogyria. This finding suggests that alterations in neuronal migration may have an impact in the cortical formation of the cortical areas that are visually normal. These areas are associated or occur concurrently with polymicrogyria.
Masticatory dysfunction is associated with worse functional ability: a population‐based study
Authors: Laudisio Alice , Marzetti Emanuele , Pagano Francesco , Bernabei Roberto , Zuccalà Giuseppe
Published: December 2009

Laudisio A, Marzetti E, Pagano F, Bernabei R, Zuccalà G. Masticatory dysfunction is associated with worse functional ability: a population‐based study. J Clin Periodontol 2010; 37: 113–119. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2009.01518.x.

Aim: Because of the ageing of populations, disability has become an emergent problem from the clinical, social, and economic perspectives. Nevertheless, the determinants of disability in older subjects are still unclear. We assessed the association between self‐assessed masticatory dysfunction (MD) and functional ability in older subjects.

Materials and Methods: We analysed data of all 350 subjects aged 75+ living in Tuscania (Italy). Functional ability was estimated using the Katz' activities of daily living (ADLs), and the Lawton and Brody instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) scales.

Results: MD was reported by 145 (41%) participants. Disability in the ADLs and IADLs was found in 37 (25%) and 53 (37%) of participants with MD, respectively, but only in 11 (5%) and 30 (15%) of the other participants (p<0.001). MD was associated with disability in the ADLs [odds ratio (OR)=2.40, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.05–5.51], and IADLs (OR=2.77, 95% CI=1.07–7.16) in logistic regression, after adjusting. The association of MD with disability was stronger among subjects aged 80+.

Conclusions: MD is independently associated with disability in community‐dwelling elderly. Further studies are needed to evaluate the impact of early detection and correction of MD on the preservation of functional status in older populations.
What changes in health‐related quality of life matter to multiple myeloma patients? A prospective study*
Authors: Kvam Ann K. , Fayers Peter , Wisloff Finn
Published: December 2009

Objective: To determine the clinical significance of changes in quality‐of‐life scores in patients with multiple myeloma (MM), we have estimated the minimal important difference (MID) for the health‐related quality‐of‐life instrument, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) QLQ‐C30. The MID is the smallest change in a quality‐of‐life score considered important to patients. Methods: Between 2006 and 2008, 239 patients with MM completed the EORTC QLQ‐C30 at inclusion (T1) and after 3 months (T2). At T2, a structured quality‐of‐life interview was also performed. MIDs were calculated by using mean score changes (T2–T1) for patients who in the interview stated they had improved, deteriorated or were unchanged. MIDs were also estimated by the receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve method as well as by calculation effect sizes using standard deviations of baseline scores. Results: MIDs varied slightly depending on the method used. Patients stating in the interview that they had ‘improved’ or ‘deteriorated’ had a corresponding change in EORTC QLQ‐C30 score ranging from 6 to15 (improvement) and from 9 to17 (deterioration) (scale range 0–100). The ROC analysis indicated that changes in score from 7 to17 represent clinically important changes to patients. The effect size method suggested 5–6 to be a small and 11–15 to be a medium change. Conclusion: Calculation of MIDs as mean score changes or by ROC analysis suggested that a change in the EORTC QLQ‐C30 score in the range of approximately 6–17 is considered important by patients with MM. These MIDs are closer to a medium effect size than to a small effect size. Our findings imply that mean score changes smaller than 6 are unlikely to be important to the patients, even if these changes are statistically significant.
Species identification of Alnus (Betulaceae) using nrDNA and cpDNA genetic markers
Authors: REN BAO‐QING , XIANG XIAO‐GUO , CHEN ZHI‐DUAN
Published: December 2009

One nuclear and three chloroplast DNA regions (ITS, rbcL, matK and trnH‐psbA) were used to identify the species of Alnus (Betulaceae). The results showed that 23 out of all 26 Alnus species in the world, represented by 131 samples, had their own specific molecular character states, especially for three morphologically confused species (Alnus formosana, Alnus japonica and Alnus maritima). The discriminating power of the four markers at the species level was 10% (rbcL), 31.25% (matK), 63.6% (trnH‐psbA) and 76.9% (ITS). For ITS, the mean value of genetic distance between species was more than 10 times the intraspecific distance (0.009%), and 13 species had unique character states that differentiated them from other species of Alnus. The trnH‐psbA region had higher mean values of genetic distance between and within species (2.1% and 0.68% respectively) than any other region tested. Using the trnH‐psbA region, 13 species are distinguished from 22 species, and seven species have a single diagnostic site. The combination of two regions, ITS and trnH‐psbA, is the best choice for DNA identification of Alnus species, as an improvement and supplement for morphologically based taxonomy. This study illustrates the potential for certain DNA regions to be used as novel internet biological information carrier through combining DNA sequences with existing morphological character and suggests a relatively reliable and open taxonomic system based on the linked DNA and morphological data.
Bodies of Knowledge for Research in Behavioral Operations
Authors: Bendoly Elliot , Croson Rachel , Goncalves Paulo , Schultz Kenneth
Published: December 2009

Whenever intrepid researchers venture into new terrain, they find that they require knowledge outside of their formal training. This paper reviews bodies of knowledge for operations management (OM) researchers interested in the new area of Behavioral Operations. We highlight theoretical constructs and empirical phenomena from cognitive psychology, social psychology, group dynamics, and system dynamics. We also provide a guide for where to go to learn more about each body of knowledge. Our overall goal is to lower the startup costs for new researchers in Behavioral Operations.
Stochastic Optimization for Natural Disaster Asset Prepositioning
Authors: Salmerón Javier , Apte Aruna
Published: December 2009

A key strategic issue in pre‐disaster planning for humanitarian logistics is the pre‐establishment of adequate capacity and resources that enable efficient relief operations. This paper develops a two‐stage stochastic optimization model to guide the allocation of budget to acquire and position relief assets, decisions that typically need to be made well in advance before a disaster strikes. The optimization focuses on minimizing the expected number of casualties, so our model includes first‐stage decisions to represent the expansion of resources such as warehouses, medical facilities with personnel, ramp spaces, and shelters. Second‐stage decisions concern the logistics of the problem, where allocated resources and contracted transportation assets are deployed to rescue critical population (in need of emergency evacuation), deliver required commodities to stay‐back population, and transport the transfer population displaced by the disaster. Because of the uncertainty of the event's location and severity, these and other parameters are represented as scenarios. Computational results on notional test cases provide guidance on budget allocation and prove the potential benefit of using stochastic optimization.
Influence of Bilge Keel Width on the Roll Damping of FPSO
Authors: Thiagarajan Krish P. , Braddock Ellen C.
Published: December 2009

Current industry practice to control roll motions in floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels is based on using large-width bilge keels. This paper details an experimental study involving a range of bilge keel widths from 0% to 20% of half beam of a FPSO with rectangular geometry. Both free decay and forced oscillation tests were conducted on the range of geometries at different amplitudes and frequencies. The results show that, for given amplitude of roll motion, the damping coefficient increases with increasing bilge keel size up to a certain point and then declines. Numerical simulations using the free surface random vortex method were performed on rectangular cross sections with bilge keels, which show good agreement with the experimental results. Simulations extended up to even larger keel widths indicate that the same trend for damping coefficient as a function of keel size is found. An examination of the simulation results suggests a likely explanation for this behavior. A simplified formulation for damping coefficient is developed as a function of bilge keel width and roll amplitude.
An Elasticity Solution for the Global Buckling of Sandwich Beams/Wide Panels With Orthotropic Phases
Authors: Kardomateas George A.
Published: December 2009

There exist several formulas for the global buckling of sandwich plates, each based on a specific set of assumptions and a specific plate or beam model. It is not easy to determine the accuracy and range of validity of these rather simple formulas unless an elasticity solution exists. In this paper, we present an elasticity solution to the problem of global buckling of wide sandwich panels (equivalent to sandwich columns) subjected to axially compressive loading (along the short side). The emphasis on this study is on the global (single-wave) rather than the wrinkling (multiwave) mode. The sandwich section is symmetric, and all constituent phases, i.e., the facings and the core, are assumed to be orthotropic. The buckling problem is formulated as an eigenboundary-value problem for differential equations, with the axial load being the eigenvalue. The complication in the sandwich construction arises due to the existence of additional “internal” conditions at the face-sheet/core interfaces. Results are produced for a range of geometric configurations, and these are compared with the different global buckling formulas in the literature.
Experimental
Investigations of an Internal Flow Generated by Porous
Injection
Authors: Fournier Clarisse , Michard Marc , Bataille Françoise
Published: December 2009

An anisothermal channel flow generated by a porous injection is investigated in details for different Reynolds numbers of the injection in order to highlight the impact of the microstructure of porous material on the flow development. Two types of porous materials, being characterized by different matrices and pore sizes are studied: a coarse bronze porous plate (30% porosity and 100 μm average pore diameter) and a stainless steel porous plate (30% porosity and 30 μm average pore diameter). Particle image velocimetry, hot-wire anemometry, and cold wire thermometer measurements lead to the comparison of mean profiles, rms profiles, and energy spectra for the velocity and temperature fields. Two-point spatial correlations for the fluctuating velocity are also calculated. In the case of the coarse bronze plate, the flow is slightly fluctuating with big space coherence. In the opposite, the results obtained with the fine pore plate show a flow close to a fully developed turbulent channel flow. The comparison of the aerodynamic field with computational simulations based on a Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) model underlines the difficulties to reproduce exactly the evolution of the mean and fluctuating velocities in all the explored part of the channel.
The Free and Forced Vibrations of a Closed Elastic Spherical Shell Fixed to an Equatorial Beam—Part I: The Governing Equations and Special Solutions
Authors: Simmonds J. G. , Hosseinbor A. P.
Published: December 2009

The classical theories of shells and curved beams are used to develop the equations of motion of an elastically isotropic spherical shell attached to an elastic equatorial beam of rectangular cross section. The mass densities and elasticities of the shell and beam are, in general, different. Remarkably, for the natural frequencies, the final set of eight linear homogeneous algebraic equations uncouples into two sets of four. The only approximations made are of the same order of magnitude as those inherent in classical shell and beam theory. Although solutions of the shell equations involve Legendre functions (and not polynomials), the final set of algebraic equations involve only trigonometric and gamma functions. Several special exact solutions are given. In Part II, perturbation techniques are used to find the natural frequencies for beam-shell configurations ranging from nearly pure beams to nearly pure shells.
Stable Controller Interpolation and Controller Switching for LPV Systems
Authors: Rasmussen Bryan P. , Chang Young Joon
Published: December 2009

This paper examines the gain-scheduling problem with a particular focus on controller interpolation with guaranteed stability of the nonlinear closed-loop system. For linear parameter varying model representations, a method of interpolating between controllers utilizing the Youla parametrization is proposed. Quadratic stability despite fast scheduling is guaranteed by construction, while the characteristics of individual controllers designed a priori are recovered at critical design points. Methods for reducing the state dimension of the interpolated controller are also given. The capability of the proposed approach to guarantee stability despite arbitrarily fast transitions leads naturally to application to switched linear systems. The efficacy of the method is demonstrated in simulation using a multi-input, multi-output, nonminimum-phase system, while interpolating between two controllers of different sizes and structures.
Combined Steady State and Transient Analysis of a Patrol Vessel as Affected by Varying Amounts of Damping and Periodic and Random Wave Excitation
Authors: Falzarano Jeffrey M. , Vishnubhotla Srinivas , Juckett Sarah E.
Published: December 2009

In this paper various techniques of dynamical system analysis are used to analyze the effect of damping on large amplitude nonlinear ship-rolling motion of a patrol vessel. In particular steady state magnification curves, Poincare maps are for harmonic forcing and project phase planes are for random forcing. It has been found that varying amounts of damping substantially affect the vessel’s critical behavior. This is important since most stability regulations ignore damping and solely concentrate on the vessel’s righting ram curve. Moreover roll damping is difficult to predict accurately and small changes in damping may have a significant effect.
“Did you say 50% of my grade?” — Teaching Introductory Physics to Non-Science Majors Through a Haunted Physics Lab
Authors: Donaldson Nancy
Published: December 2009

Several years ago I attended an AAPT Haunted Physics Workshop taught by Dr. Tom Zepf from Creighton University. Dr. Zepf's highly successful Haunted Physics Lab1 at Creighton was put on every October by his physics majors. I found the concept of exhibiting physics projects in a “fun” way to students, faculty, and the public very exciting, so an idea brewed in my head to use this at our university. When our dean asked me to design an introductory physics course for non-science majors, I decided it was the right time to put the haunted lab idea to use. The ensuing course, entitled “Phascination in Physics,” was designed as a half-semester 4.0-credit physics lecture/lab course for non-science majors.
Cooling of Water in a Flask: Convection Currents in a Fluid with a Density Maximum
Authors: Velasco S. , White J. A. , Román F. L.
Published: December 2009

The effect of density inversion on the convective flow of water in a spherical glass flask cooled with the help of an ice-water bath is shown. The experiment was carried out by temperature measurements (cooling curves) taken at three different heights along the vertical diameter of the flask. Flows inside the flask are visualized by seeding the water with blue ink.
Morphology of Salmonella Typhimurium typing phages of the Lilleengen set
Authors: Eisenstark Abraham , Rabsch Wolfgang , Ackermann Hans-W.
Published: December 2009

The Lilleengen scheme for typing Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium consists of 12 tailed phages. Ten phages are podoviruses and morphologically identical to Salmonella phage P22. Two phages are siphoviruses and identical to flagella-specific phage χ.
An Australian environmental survey reveals moderate Spiroplasma biodiversity: characterization of four new serogroups and a continental variant
Authors: Regassa Laura B. , Murphy April C. , Zarzuela Alexander B. , Jandhyam Haritha L. , Bostick David S. , Bates C. Ryan , Gasparich Gail E. , Whitcomb Robert F. , French Frank E.
Published: December 2009

An environmental survey of tabanid host spiroplasma carriage was undertaken at 10 collection sites in Australia during February 1999. A total of 164 tabanid flies, representing 27 species, were collected and sustainable spiroplasma isolations were made from 48 of the flies. The morphology of the cultured spiroplasmas, as observed in M1D medium under dark-field microscopy, was typical of either (i) Apis group spiroplasmas (relatively thick cells (~150 nm) with six or more turns) or (ii) chrysopicola–syrphidicola–TAAS-1 clade spiroplasmas (narrower, often much shorter cells) serologically related to Spiroplasma serogroup VIII. Repetitive serological analyses, involving successive rounds of dilution cloning and serological reevaluation, identified one serotype referable to the Spiroplasma serogroup VIII strain complex and five putative members of the Apis clade. Apis clade placement for these five groups was verified using 16S rRNA phylogenetic analyses. Among the Apis clade members, one serotype representing 11 isolates was identified as a geographic variant of Spiroplasma turonicum . Spiroplasma turonicum (Tab4C) was originally isolated from a tabanid Haematopoda sp. in France. The other 34 isolates represented four new serogroups (= putative species). The following strains are proposed as representatives of the new serogroups: strain GSU5478 (group XXXIX), strain GSU5490 (group XL), strain GSU5508 (group XLI), and strain GSU5603 (group XLII). In summary, six serogroups were observed from isolations originating from seven distinct sample sites in Australia. Surprisingly, the serotype with the greatest geographical range (five sites from 16°48.9′S to 35°40.0′S) and the greatest host diversity (nine species over three genera) was the geographic variant of S. turonicum, which had only been reported previously in France.
Real-time molecular beacon NASBA for rapid and sensitive detection of norovirus GII in clinical samples
Authors: Lamhoujeb Safaa , Charest Hugues , Fliss Ismail , Ngazoa Solange , Jean Julie
Published: December 2009

To improve the sensitivity and efficiency of the real-time nucleic acid sequence based amplification (NASBA) assay targeting the open reading frame 1–2 (ORF1–ORF2) junction of the norovirus (NoV) genome, a selection of clinical samples were analyzed. The assay results were compared with those of TaqMan and conventional reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and a commercial enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) for the specific detection of GII NoV in 96 fecal samples. Based on end-point dilution, the two real-time assays had similar sensitivities (0.01 particle detectable units), two log10cycles greater than that of conventional RT-PCR. GII NoV was detected in 88.54% of the samples by real-time NASBA, in 86.46% by TaqMan RT-PCR, in 81.25% by conventional RT-PCR, and in 65.7% by ELISA. The two real-time assays were in agreement for 88.5% of the samples. These results demonstrate that real-time NASBA with a molecular beacon probe is highly sensitive, accurate, and specific for NoV detection in clinical samples. Applying this technique to samples with complex matrix and low viral loads, such as food and environmental samples, could be useful for the detection of NoVs and will improve the prevention of NoV outbreaks.
EXACT SOLUTION FOR THE MASSLESS CYLINDRICALLY SYMMETRIC SCALAR FIELD IN GENERAL RELATIVITY, WITH COSMOLOGICAL CONSTANT
Authors: MOMENI D. , MIRAGHAEI H.
Published: December 2009

In this paper, we present a new exact solution for scalar field with cosmological constant in cylindrical symmetry. Associated cosmological models, including a model that describes a cyclic universe, are discussed.
On the Independent Origins of Complex Brains and Neurons
Authors: Moroz Leonid L.
Published: December 2009

Analysis of the origin and evolution of neurons is crucial for revealing principles of organization of neural circuits with unexpected implications for genomic sciences, biomedical applications and regenerative medicine. This article presents an overview of some controversial ideas about the origin and evolution of neurons and nervous systems, focusing on the independent origin of complex brains and possible independent origins of neurons. First, earlier hypotheses related to the origin of neurons are summarized. Second, the diversity of nervous systems and convergent evolution of complex brains in relation to current views about animal phylogeny is discussed. Third, the lineages of molluscs and basal metazoans are used as illustrated examples of multiple origins of complex brains and neurons. Finally, a hypothesis about the independent origin of complex brains, centralized nervous systems and neurons is outlined. Injury-associated mechanisms leading to secretion of signal peptides (and related molecules) can be considered as evolutionary predecessors of inter-neuronal signaling and the major factors in the appearance of neurons in the first place.
Endothelial-Specific Deletion of Connexin40 Promotes Atherosclerosis by Increasing CD73-Dependent Leukocyte Adhesion
Authors: Chadjichristos C.E. , Scheckenbach K.E.L. , van Veen T.A.B. , Richani Sarieddine M.Z. , de Wit C. , Yang Z. , Roth I. , Bacchetta M. , Viswambharan H. , Foglia B. , Dudez T. , van Kempen M.J.A. , Coenjaerts F.E.J. , Miquerol L. , Deutsch U. , Jongsma H.J. , Chanson M. , Kwak B.R.
Published: December 2009

Background—

Endothelial dysfunction is the initiating event of atherosclerosis. The expression of connexin40 (Cx40), an endothelial gap junction protein, is decreased during atherogenesis. In the present report, we sought to determine whether Cx40 contributes to the development of the disease.

Methods and Results—

Mice with ubiquitous deletion of Cx40 are hypertensive, a risk factor for atherosclerosis. Consequently, we generated atherosclerosis-susceptible mice with endothelial-specific deletion of Cx40 (Cx40del mice). Cx40del mice were indeed not hypertensive. The progression of atherosclerosis was increased in Cx40del mice after 5 and 10 weeks of a high-cholesterol diet, and spontaneous lesions were observed in the aortic sinuses of young mice without such a diet. These lesions showed monocyte infiltration into the intima, increased expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, and decreased expression of the ecto-enzyme CD73 in the endothelium. The proinflammatory phenotype of Cx40del mice was confirmed in another model of induced leukocyte recruitment from the lung microcirculation. Endothelial CD73 is known to induce antiadhesion signaling via the production of adenosine. We found that reducing Cx40 expression in vitro with small interfering RNA or antisense decreased CD73 expression and activity and increased leukocyte adhesion to mouse endothelial cells. These effects were reversed by an adenosine receptor agonist.

Conclusions—

Cx40-mediated gap junctional communication contributes to a quiescent nonactivated endothelium by propagating adenosine-evoked antiinflammatory signals between endothelial cells. Alteration in this mechanism by targeting Cx40 promotes leukocyte adhesion to the endothelium, thus accelerating atherosclerosis.
Compliance, Safety, and Effectiveness of Fixed-Dose Combinations of Antihypertensive Agents
Authors: Gupta Ajay K. , Arshad Shazia , Poulter Neil R.
Published: December 2009

Two or more antihypertensive agents are increasingly used to control blood pressure (BP) in hypertensive patients. However, it is unclear whether fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) of 2 antihypertensive agents in a single tablet provide greater benefits than the corresponding free-drug components given separately. A meta-analysis was performed to assess compliance, persistence, BP control, and safety associated with FDCs in comparison with their free-drug components. Fifteen included studies (n=32331) reported on ≥1 of the evaluated outcomes. In 3 cohort studies and 2 trials reporting on drug compliance (n=17 999), the use of FDCs was associated with significantly better compliance (odds ratio: 1.21 [95% CI: 1.03 to 1.43];
P
=0.02) compared with its corresponding free-drug combinations. In 3 cohort studies (n=12 653), there was a nonsignificant improvement in persistence with therapy (odds ratio: 1.54 [95% CI: 0.95 to 2.49];
P
=0.08), and in 5 trials (n=1775) the odds ratio for adverse effects for FDC use compared with free-drug combination use was 0.80 (95% CI: 0.58 to 1.11;
P
=0.19). In 9 trials (n=1671) with BP data, use of an FDC was associated with nonsignificant changes in systolic and diastolic BPs of 4.1 mm Hg (95% CI: −9.8 to 1.5;
P
=0.15) and 3.1 mm Hg (95% CI: −7.1 to 0.9;
P
=0.13), respectively. In these BP-lowering comparisons, there was heterogeneity associated with differences in study design but no publication bias. In conclusion, compared with free-drug combinations, FDCs of antihypertensive agents are associated with a significant improvement in compliance and with nonsignificant beneficial trends in BP and adverse effects.
Representation Sharpening Can Explain Perceptual Priming
Authors: Moldakarimov Samat , Bazhenov Maxim , Sejnowski Terrence J.
Published: December 2009

Perceiving and identifying an object is improved by prior exposure to the object. This perceptual priming phenomenon is accompanied by reduced neural activity. But whether suppression of neuronal activity with priming is responsible for the improvement in perception is unclear. To address this problem, we developed a rate-based network model of visual processing. In the model, decreased neural activity following priming was due to stimulus-specific sharpening of representations taking place in the early visual areas. Representation sharpening led to decreased interference of representations in higher visual areas that facilitated selection of one of the competing representations, thereby improving recognition. The model explained a wide range of psychophysical and physiological data observed in priming experiments, including antipriming phenomena, and predicted two functionally distinct stages of visual processing.
General Risk and Need, Gender Specificity, and the Recidivism of Female Offenders
Authors: Rettinger L. Jill , Andrews D. A.
Published: December 2009

The study examined the predictive performance of social cognitive variables derived from a gender-neutral theory of criminal behavior in relation to several variables suggested as relevant by feminist perspectives. Multivariate analyses revealed that eight gender-neutral risk factors—assessed via the Level of Service/Case Management Inventory (LS/CMI)—performed very well in the prediction of the general and violent recidivism of more than 400 adult female offenders. None of the gender-specific factors, including parenting responsibility and stress, victimization history, and self-harm, had incremental validity over the gender-neutral risk and need variables. However, financial problems and a measure of personal misfortune did predict reoffending among low-risk/low-need women. The findings suggest that risk factors derived from a gender-neutral social cognitive theory of crime are relevant for adult females and that perhaps gender-specific concerns may be best viewed as specific responsivity factors.
The Confluence of Mental Health and Psychopathic Traits in Adolescent Female Offenders
Authors: Cook Nathan E. , Barese Trevor H. , Dicataldo Frank
Published: December 2009

The relation among psychopathic traits, violence, and mental health needs was investigated in a sample of juvenile offenders. Information was gathered from 100 youth offenders, 50 female and 50 male, committed to a state juvenile justice agency. Case file information was used to score the Psychopathy Checklist: Youth Version (PCL:YV), and additional archival data were used to code offense and mental health variables. Female offenders scoring high on the PCL:YV, particularly the Lifestyle and Antisocial features, were more likely to have histories of psychiatric hospitalization, and a stronger relation between mental health needs and psychopathic traits was found among female compared with male offenders. The differential manifestation of psychopathic traits in female adolescents and relevant treatment implications are discussed.
Sex, Gender, and Decisions at the Family → Work Interface
Authors: Powell Gary N. , Greenhaus Jeffrey H.
Published: December 2009

What is the linkage between individuals’ sex and the interface between their work and family roles? The answer to this question is by no means straightforward as gender roles, work roles, and family roles evolve. To address the question, the authors examine the influence of family-domain factors on work-domain decisions and their linkages to sex and gender. According to the logic of appropriateness, a theory of decision making, people develop and apply rules in decision-making situations that are consistent with their personal identities. The authors identify three broad types of decisions in the work domain—role entry, participation, and exit decisions—that may be influenced by factors in the family domain according to such rules. Next, they review the literature on the linkage between individuals’ sex and an example of each of these types of decisions: the role entry decision about whether to start a business, the role participation decision about the number of hours to devote to one’s job or business, and the role exit decision about whether to quit a job. The review suggests that (a) family-domain factors mediate effects of sex on work-domain decisions and (b) sex moderates relationships between family-domain factors and work-domain decisions. Based on the review, the authors offer a model of the linkages among sex, family-domain factors, and work-domain decisions that incorporates constructs from theories of the psychology of gender (femininity) and identity theories (family role salience). Finally, the authors offer guidelines for future theory and research to test and extend the model.
Evaluation of an adjustment group for people with multiple sclerosis: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Forman AC , Lincoln NB
Published: December 2009

Objective: The aim was to evaluate a group treatment for people with multiple sclerosis and low mood.

Design: Randomized controlled trial.

Setting: Community.

Participants: Patients with multiple sclerosis and low mood, scoring >7 on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scales or >2 on the General Health Questionnaire 12.

Interventions: Participants either attended an adjustment group for six, 2-hour group treatment sessions or were on a waiting list to attend the group.

Outcomes: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, General Health Questionnaire 12, Multiple Sclerosis Self Efficacy Scale, Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale and Short Form 36 administered 3 and 6 months after random allocation.

Results: Of the 219 patients identified, 100 (46%) reported depressive symptoms and 126 (58%) anxiety symptoms. Forty participants were recruited, aged 25—68 (mean 47.7 SD 9.7) and eight were men. Patients allocated to the group intervention reported fewer depressive symptoms than those in the control group (U 109.5, P<0.05) but there were no significant differences in anxiety symptoms, self-efficacy or quality of life.

Conclusion: Depressive symptoms were reduced following group intervention, which suggests this may be an effective psychological treatment and warrants further evaluation.
Cultural Festivals and Economic Development in Nonmetropolitan Australia
Authors: Gibson Chris , Waitt Gordon , Walmsley Jim , Connell John
Published: December 2009

Examining a database of 2,856 festivals in Australia and survey results from 480 festival organizers, we consider how nonmetropolitan cultural festivals provide constraints as well as opportunities for economic planners. Cultural festivals are ubiquitous, impressively diverse, and strongly connected to local communities through employment, volunteerism, and participation. Despite cultural festivals being mostly small-scale, economically modest affairs, geared around community goals, the regional proliferation of cultural festivals produces enormous direct and indirect economic benefits. Amidst debates over cultural and political issues (such as identity, exclusion, and elitism), links between cultural festivals and economic development planning are explored.
Male—Female Dynamics in Groups: A Field Study of The Weakest Link
Authors: Raghubir Priya , Valenzuela Ana
Published: December 2009

This article develops an integrative framework for understanding gender-based group dynamics based on sex composition. The authors study decisions made by male and female members of a group to eliminate or promote other male and female group members. Study 1 uses game simulations modeled on the television show The Weakest Link to show how male and female players trade off individual versus group utility in a group setting and how such trade-offs affect group dynamics. They identify four patterns of sex-based group dynamics: old boys’ club, queen bee, bounded rationality, and females as finalists but not winners. These patterns are part of a mosaic based on differences in sex composition and sex differences between male and female group members discriminating positively, negatively, or not at all against other male and female group members. The authors propose that differences in the degree of competition versus cooperation in the group, the initial sex composition, and the mean and variance of players’ abilities by sex interactively determine which pattern will be noted. Study 2 uses observational data from The Weakest Link to test these predictions in a field setting. Implications for the motivational, cognitive, and strategic antecedents of gender effects based on sex composition of the group are discussed.
On the Same Page
Authors: Ploessl Donna M. , Rock Marcia L. , Schoenfeld Naomi , Blanks Brooke
Published: December 2009

As increasing numbers of students with disabilities are taught in general education classrooms, co-teaching has become an established method of special education service provision. No longer viewed by education professionals as a collaborative model-come-lately, this shared approach of working side by side with a colleague in a classroom can be a rewarding and at the same time frustrating experience. This article offers co-teachers practical techniques to enhance their interactions and, in turn, improve educational outcomes for all of their students.
Breast Cancer, Depression, Culture, and Marital Conflict
Authors: Sperry Len
Published: December 2009

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer and the second leading cause of death in middle-age women. Several psychological, cultural, and systemic factors can exacerbate the course of this disease and complicate its treatment and recovery. These include clinical depression, cultural factors, and marital dynamics, particularly marital conflict. Individual and couples counseling can be essential for effective medical treatment and clinical outcomes. A case example illustrates these points.
Pulse wave amplitude is associated with brachial artery diameter: Implications for gender differences in microvascular function
Authors: Heffernan Kevin S , Karas Richard H , Mooney Paula J , Patel Ayan R , Kuvin Jeffrey T
Published: December 2009

The ratio of pulse wave amplitude (PWA) during reactive hyperemia compared to baseline as measured by peripheral arterial tonometry (PAT) is a non-invasive measure of microvascular endothelial function referred to as the pulse wave amplitude reactive hyperemia index (PWA-RHI). Whether upstream conduit vessel structure may affect downstream resistance vessel PWA has not been clearly examined. We tested the hypothesis that digital PWA is influenced by brachial artery diameter (BAD) and that this association would influence comparison of PWA-RHI between genders. Measures of vascular structure and microvascular function were carried out in 115 patients varying in cardiovascular risk profiles (average age 57 years, male n = 79, CAD n = 43). PWA was assessed using plethysmography at baseline and following 5 minutes of brachial artery occlusion. BAD was assessed using high-resolution ultrasonography. Results: There was a negative association between BAD and PWA-RHI ( r = —0.34, p < 0.05). Women had greater PWA-RHI and smaller BAD compared with men ( p < 0.05). When co-varying for BAD, there were no longer gender differences in PWA-RHI. Moreover, when a sub-group of men and women without CAD ( n = 40), matched for BAD, were examined, there were no gender differences in PWA-RHI. In conclusion, PWA-RHI obtained from PAT is associated with BAD. Studies examining gender differences in microvascular endothelial function with PAT may need to correct for BAD as a potential confounder.
Adolescents under rocket fire: when are coping resources significant in reducing emotional distress?
Authors: Sagy Shifra , Braun-Lewensohn Orna
Published: December 2009

Stress reactions and coping resources of adolescents in chronic and acute situations evoked by missile fire were examined. Data were gathered during August 2006 (Second Lebanon War) on a sample of 303 Israeli adolescents living in Northern Israel (acute state) and 114 youths from Sderot and the Negev, an area which has been exposed to frequent rocket attacks in the last seven years (chronic state). State anxiety and psychological distress were measured as stress reactions. Sense of coherence, family sense of coherence, sense of community and level of exposure were investigated as potential explanatory factors in reducing emotional distress. The overall magnitude of variance explanation was found to be different at each state: a relatively high amount explained variance of stress reactions was found in the chronic stress situation, but not in the acute state. These data support the value of developing a model that differentiates stress situations with the aim of understanding patterns of significant resources in moderating stress reactions in each state. (Global Health Promotion, 2009; 16 (4): pp. 5—15)