bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fertility in Turner syndrome
Authors: Hewitt Jacqueline K. , Jayasinghe Yasmin , Amor David J. , Gillam Lynn H. , Warne Garry L. , Grover Sonia , Zacharin Margaret R.
Published: July 2013

There is increasing interest in fertility and use of assisted reproductive technologies for women with Turner syndrome (TS). Current parenting options include adoption, surrogacy, and spontaneous and assisted reproduction. For women with TS, specific risks of pregnancy include higher than usual rates of spontaneous abortion, foetal anomaly, maternal morbidity and mortality. Heterologous fertility assistance using oocytes from related or unrelated donors is an established technique for women with TS. Homologous fertility preservation includes cryopreservation of the patient's own gametes prior to the progressive ovarian atresia known to occur: preserving either mature oocytes or ovarian tissue containing primordial follicles. Mature oocyte cryopreservation requires ovarian stimulation and can be performed only in postpubertal individuals, when few women with TS have viable oocytes. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation, however, can be performed in younger girls prior to ovarian atresia – over 30 pregnancies have resulted using this technique, however, none in women with TS. We recommend consideration of homologous fertility preservation techniques in children only within specialized centres, with informed consent using protocols approved by a research or clinical ethics board. It is essential that further research is performed to improve maternal and foetal outcomes for women with TS.
Progress in understanding the association between high myopia and primary open‐angle glaucoma
Authors: Ma Fei , Dai Jinhui , Sun Xinghuai
Published: July 2013

Many clinical and fundamental studies have shown that high myopia (HM) and glaucoma are closely associated. In particular, the occurrence and progression of primary open‐angle glaucoma interact with the progression of HM. Two hypotheses have been proposed to explain the association between the two disorders: the hypertension gene theory and the collagen‐related gene theory. HM and primary open‐angle glaucoma patients show similar collagen changes and hypersensitive responses to glucocorticoids. Consequently, these common features may hold key information regarding their underlying mechanisms. Advances in life sciences, such as molecular genetics, provide opportunities for clarifying their association at the molecular level. This article reviews available research on the association between these two disorders from the perspectives of epidemiology, clinical manifestation, diagnosis and pathogenic mechanisms.
Origins of lacrimal surgery, and evolution of dacryocystorhinostomy to the present
Authors: Harish Varun , Benger Ross S
Published: July 2013

The creation of an alternative pathway from the lacrimal sac into the nose has been practised for over two millennia. Early historical figures who pioneered lacrimal surgery were Celsus and Galen, treating dacryocystitis by plunging a red‐hot cautery iron through the lacrimal bone into the nose. Better understanding of lacrimal physiology and anatomy led to the introduction of more sophisticated techniques in the 18th century. However, despite these approaches, the technique of Celsus continued to be practised well into the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Modern lacrimal surgery began when the Italian otolaryngologist, Toti, described his external dacryocystorhinostomy procedure in 1904. Dupuy‐Dutemps and Bourget refined Toti's procedure, and introduced the technique of anastomosing lacrimal and nasal mucosal flaps which remains the foundation of the external dacryocystorhinostomy performed today. The endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy was described before the external approach, but its popularity and success grew only in recent times.
Prostaglandin associated periorbitopathy in patients using bimatoprost, latanoprost and travoprost
Authors: Kucukevcilioglu Murat , Bayer Atilla , Uysal Yusuf , Altinsoy Halil I
Published: July 2013

Background

To investigate the frequency of prostaglandin‐associated periorbitopathy among bimatoprost, latanoprost and travoprost users.

Design

Retrospective observational case series.

Participants

The study group included 105 patients who were using one of the drugs in one eye for more than 1 month, and the other eye was used as a control.

Main Outcome Measures

The frequency of prostaglandin‐associated periorbitopathy.

Methods

Special care was taken to detect five prostaglandin‐associated periorbitopathy findings. Hertel exophthalmometry measurements and colour pictures of the periocular area were taken.

Results

Statistically significant differences were found among the groups regarding the presence of all prostaglandin‐associated periorbitopathy findings (P < 0.05). Periorbital fat loss was the most frequent and was observed in nearly all prostaglandin‐associated periorbitopathy patients except those who were relatively young. The overall frequency of prostaglandin‐associated periorbito pathy was 93.3% in the bimatoprost group, 41.4% in the latanoprost group and 70% in the travoprost group. The frequency of deepening of the upper lid sulcus was 80% in the bimatoprost group, 15.7% in the latanoprost group and 45% in the travoprost group. The frequency of milder changes (the presence of either only periorbital fat loss or dermatochalasis involution or the presence of both) was higher in the latanoprost group (62%) than in the travoprost (35.7%) and bimatoprost (7.1%) groups.

Conclusions

Prostaglandin‐associated periorbitopathy is as common as other adverse effects when careful examinations are performed and is more frequent and more severe in bimatoprost users. The loss of the periorbital fat pad is the first sign to occur during the evolution of prostaglandin‐associated periorbitopathy, especially in older patients.
Prevalence and causes of corneal blindness
Authors: Wang Haijing , Zhang Yaoguang , Li Zhijian , Wang Tiebin , Liu Ping
Published: July 2013

Background

The study aimed to assess the prevalence and causes of corneal blindness in a rural northern Chinese population.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Participants or Samples

The cluster random sampling method was used to select the sample.

Methods

This population‐based study included 11 787 participants of all ages in rural Heilongjiang Province, China. These participants underwent a detailed interview and eye examination that included the measurement of visual acuity, slit‐lamp biomicroscopy and direct ophthalmoscopy. An eye was considered to have corneal blindness if the visual acuity was <9/18 because of corneal diseases.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measure was prevalence rates of corneal blindness and low vision.

Results

Among the 10 384 people enrolled in the study, the prevalence of corneal blindness is 0.3% (95% confidence interval 0.2–0.4%). The leading cause was keratitis in childhood (40.0%), followed by ocular trauma (33.3%) and keratitis in adulthood (20.0%). Age and illiteracy were found to be associated with an increased prevalence of corneal blindness.

Conclusion

Blindness because of corneal diseases in rural areas of Northern China is a significant public health problem that needs to be given more attention.
Effectiveness of hand splints in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Jackman Michelle , Novak Iona , Lannin Natasha
Published: July 2013

Aim

The aim of this review was to determine the effectiveness of hand splinting for improving hand function in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and brain injury.

Method

A systematic review with meta‐analyses was conducted. Only randomized and quasi‐randomized controlled trials in which all participants were children aged 0 to 18 years withCPor brain injury and a hand splint (cast, brace, or orthosis) were included.

Results

Six studies met the inclusion criteria. No study included participants with a brain injury; therefore, the results relate only toCP. Five studies investigated ‘non‐functional hand splints’ and one investigated a ‘functional hand splint’. Moderate‐quality evidence indicated a small benefit of non‐functional hand splints plus therapy on upper limb skills over therapy alone (standard mean difference [SMD]=0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.03–1.58), although benefits were diminished 2 to 3 months after splint wearing stopped (SMD=0.35,CI−0.06 to 0.77).

Interpretation

In children withCP, hand splints may have a small benefit for upper limb skills. However, results are diminished after splint wearing stops. Given the costs – potential negative cosmesis and discomfort for the child – clinicians must consider whether hand splinting is clinically worthwhile. Further methodologically sound research regarding hand splinting combined with evidence‐based therapy is needed to investigate whether the small clinical effect is meaningful.
C‐reactive protein and incident diabetes in patients with arterial disease
Authors: Verhagen Sandra N. , Wassink Annemarie M. J. , van der Graaf Yolanda , Visseren Frank L. J. ,   SMART Study Group
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Systemic low‐grade inflammation, as measured by high‐sensitive C‐reactive protein (hsCRP), may contribute to the risk of type 2 diabetes in patients with manifest arterial disease.

Methods

Cohort study in 4072 patients with manifest arterial disease without diabetes. The relation between quartiles of hsCRP and type 2 diabetes was assessed with Cox regression analyses, taking age, smoking and blood pressure–lowering medication and lipid‐lowering medication into account. Insulin resistance was estimated with homeostasis model of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR). In exploratory models, adjustments were performed for body mass index (BMI) and visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 5·0 (IQR 2·5–8·2) years, 288 subjects developed diabetes. High hsCRP was independently associated with incident diabetes (Q4 vs. Q1 males: HR 1·62; 95% CI 1·06–2·48; females: HR 3·12; 95% CI 1·57–6·21). HOMA‐IR at baseline is related to hsCRP plasma levels (Q4 vs. Q1: males: β 0·27; 95% CI 0·19–0·36; females: β 0·35; 95% CI 0·22–0·48). The risk of diabetes associated with hsCRP was abolished in males (Q4 vs. 1 HR 1·23; 95% CI 0·80–1·88) and attenuated in females (Q4 vs. 1 HR 2·32; 95% CI 1·14–4·75) after adding BMI to the model, but not modified by statin use (P for interaction: 0·61).

Conclusions

Patients with manifest arterial disease with high hsCRP plasma levels are at increased risk to develop type 2 diabetes and are more insulin resistant as compared to those with low hsCRP levels. This increase in risk is more pronounced in females than in males and is not modified by statin use.
Integrating multi‐receiver electromagnetic induction measurements into the interpretation of the soil landscape around the school of gladiators atCarnuntum
Authors: Saey T. , Van Meirvenne M. , De Smedt P. , Neubauer W. , Trinks I. , Verhoeven G. , Seren S.
Published: July 2013

Recently, the unique foundations of a school of gladiators were discovered in theRoman town ofCarnuntum (40 km southeast ofVienna,Austria) by applying a combination of non‐invasive archaeological prospection techniques such as magnetometry, ground penetrating radar, aerial photography, airborne laser scanning and airborne imaging spectroscopy. Although the well‐preserved remains of the building complex were revealed down to a depth of 1.8 m by high‐resolution near‐surface geophysics, some questions about the surrounding soil landscape remained unanswered. Therefore, a proximal soil sensing procedure based on a survey with a multi‐receiver electromagnetic induction (EMI) instrument was conducted to interpret the surroundings of the school, covering an area of 5.6 ha. We investigated the usefulness of integrating the complementary apparent electrical conductivity (ECa) and apparent magnetic susceptibility (MSa) measurements for the mapping and investigation of this soil landscape. The multipleECameasurements allowed the identification of zones with low‐conductive gravel outcrops, and zones where silty‐clayey soils were deposited on top of the underlying gravel. AnEC‐depth slicing procedure enhanced the contrast between small soil features, such as frost‐wedge pseudomorphs and drainage gullies, and their background, and provided indications about the depth extent of these features. TheMS‐depth slices showed the foundations of the school of gladiators, an aqueduct and grave monuments. After combining these results with the topography, an integrated visualization of the school in its soil landscape was obtained. This study demonstrated the potential of multi‐receiverEMIsoil surveys to map and interpret the soil landscape and to discern small natural as well as archaeological features.
Prognostic value of insular lobe involvement in temporal lobe epilepsy: A stereoelectroencephalographic study
Authors: Blauwblomme Thomas , David Olivier , Minotti Lorella , Job Anne‐Sophie , Chassagnon Serge , Hoffman Dominique , Chabardes Stéphan , Kahane Philippe
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Failure of anterior temporal lobectomy for temporal lobe epilepsy has raised the question of insular cortex involvement in these seizures. Because of difficulties in exploring the insula with invasive electroencephalography (EEG) recordings, only few studies have been performed and this question remains unanswered.

Methods

Here, we studied 17 patients who underwent surgery for drug‐resistant temporal lobe epilepsy, explored with intracerebral electrodes, with at least one electrode coplanar to the insula. We analyzed seizure propagation patterns from temporal lobe structures to the insula, and their effect on outcome. We used an objective measure of the epileptogenicity of the insula for individual cases and group analysis between patients who were seizure‐free after surgery and the others.

Key Findings

All temporal lobe seizures propagated to the insular cortex, with a shorter propagation delay in the case of mesiolateral temporal lobe seizures, thus supporting the existence of a perilimbic network. Epileptogenicity of the insular cortex was not a prognostic factor for outcome after surgery.

Significance

Insular involvement in temporal lobe seizure is not per se a prognostic factor for surgical outcome. Prognosis may be correlated with larger epileptogenic zones that our stereoelectroencephalography spatial sampling could have underestimated.
Electroencephalography monitoring in critically ill children: Current practice and implications for future study design
Authors: Sánchez Sarah M. , Arndt Daniel H. , Carpenter Jessica L. , Chapman Kevin E. , Cornett Karen M. , Dlugos Dennis J. , Gallentine William B. , Giza Christopher C. , Goldstein Joshua L. , Hahn Cecil D. , Lerner Jason T. , Loddenkemper Tobias , Matsumoto Joyce H. , McBain Kristin , Nash Kendall B. , Payne Eric , Sánchez Fernández Iván , Shults Justine , Williams Korwyn , Yang Amy , Abend Nicholas S.
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Survey data indicate that continuous electroencephalography (EEG) (CEEG) monitoring is used with increasing frequency to identify electrographic seizures in critically ill children, but studies of current CEEG practice have not been conducted. We aimed to describe the clinical utilization of CEEG in critically ill children at tertiary care hospitals with a particular focus on variables essential for designing feasible prospective multicenter studies evaluating the impact of electrographic seizures on outcome.

Methods

Eleven North American centers retrospectively enrolled 550 consecutive critically ill children who underwent CEEG. We collected data regarding subject characteristics, CEEG indications, and CEEG findings.

Key Findings

CEEG indications were encephalopathy with possible seizures in 67% of subjects, event characterization in 38% of subjects, and management of refractory status epilepticus in 11% of subjects. CEEG was initiated outside routine work hours in 47% of subjects. CEEG duration was <12 h in 16%, 12–24 h in 34%, and >24 h in 48%. Substantial variability existed among sites in CEEG indications and neurologic diagnoses, yet within each acute neurologic diagnosis category a similar proportion of subjects at each site had electrographic seizures. Electrographic seizure characteristics including distribution and duration varied across sites and neurologic diagnoses.

Significance

These data provide a systematic assessment of recent CEEG use in critically ill children and indicate variability in practice. The results suggest that multicenter studies are feasible if CEEG monitoring pathways can be standardized. However, the data also indicate that electrographic seizure variability must be considered when designing studies that address the impact of electrographic seizures on outcome.
Seizure control and treatment changes in pregnancy: Observations from the EURAP epilepsy pregnancy registry
Authors: Battino Dina , Tomson Torbjörn , Bonizzoni Erminio , Craig John , Lindhout Dick , Sabers Anne , Perucca Emilio , Vajda Frank ,   EURAP Study Group
Published: July 2013

Purpose

To analyze seizure control, dose adjustments, and other changes of antiepileptic drug (AED) treatment during pregnancy in a large cohort of women with epilepsy entering pregnancy on monotherapy with carbamazepine, lamotrigine, phenobarbital, or valproate.

Methods

Seizure control and AED treatment were recorded prospectively in 3,806 pregnancies of 3,451 women with epilepsy taking part in European and International Registry of Antiepileptic Drugs and Pregnancy (EURAP), an international AED and pregnancy registry.

Key Findings

Of all cases, 66.6% remained seizure‐free throughout pregnancy. Generalized tonic–clonic seizures (GTCS) occurred in 15.2% of the pregnancies. Women with idiopathic generalized epilepsies were more likely to remain seizure‐free (73.6%) than women with localization‐related epilepsy (59.5%; p < 0.0001). Worsening in seizure control from the first to second or third trimesters occurred in 15.8% of pregnancies. The AED dose was increased during pregnancy in 26.0% and a second AED added to the initial monotherapy in 2.6% of all pregnancies. Seizures were more likely to occur in the first trimester in pregnancies with an increased drug load (35%; increased dose and/or addition of another AED) than in pregnancies without an increased drug load (15.3%) (p < 0.0001). Compared with other monotherapies, pregnancies exposed to lamotrigine were less likely to be seizure‐free, 58.2% (p < 0.0001); had more GTCS, 21.1% (p < 0.0001); had a greater likelihood of deterioration in seizure control from first to second or third trimesters, 19.9% (p < 0.01), and were more likely to require an increase in drug load, 47.7% (p < 0.0001). The mean dose increases from the first to third trimesters were 26% for lamotrigine, 5% for carbamazepine, 11% for phenobarbital, and 6% for valproate. There were 21 cases of status epilepticus (10 convulsive): none with maternal mortality and only one with a subsequent stillbirth.

Significance

Although the majority of women remain seizure‐free throughout pregnancy, our data suggest that a more proactive approach to adjusting the dose of all AEDs in pregnancy should be considered, in particular for those pregnancies with seizures occurring in the first trimester and those exposed to lamotrigine, to reduce the risk of deterioration in seizure control.
Stiripentol in Dravet syndrome: Results of a retrospective U.S. study
Authors: Wirrell Elaine C. , Laux Linda , Franz David N. , Sullivan Joseph , Saneto Russell P. , Morse Richard P. , Devinsky Orrin , Chugani Harry , Hernandez Angel , Hamiwka Lorie , Mikati Mohamad A. , Valencia Ignacio , Le Guern Marie‐Emmanuelle , Chancharme Laurent , de Menezes Marcio Sotero
Published: July 2013

Purpose

To review the efficacy and tolerability of stiripentol in the treatment of U.S. children with Dravet syndrome.

Methods

U.S. clinicians who had prescribed stiripentol for two or more children with Dravet syndrome between March 2005 and 2012 were contacted to request participation in this retrospective study. Data collected included overall seizure frequency, frequency of prolonged seizures, and use of rescue medications and emergency room (ER)/hospital visits in the year preceding stiripentol initiation, and with stiripentol therapy. We separately assessed efficacy in the following treatment groups: group A, stiripentol without clobazam or valproate; group B, stiripentol with clobazam but without valproate; group C, stiripentol with valproate but without clobazam; and group D, stiripentol with clobazam and valproate. In addition, adverse effects were recorded.

Key Findings

Thirteen of 16 clinicians contacted for study participated and provided data on 82 children. Stiripentol was initiated a median of 6.0 years after seizure onset and 1.2 years after diagnosis of Dravet syndrome. Compared to baseline, overall seizure frequency was reduced in 2/6 in group A, 28/35 in group B, 8/14 in group C, and 30/48 in group D. All children with prolonged seizure frequency greater than quarterly during the baseline period experienced a reduction in this frequency on the various treatment arms with stiripentol. Similarly, 2/4 patients in group A, 25/25 in group B, 5/10 in group C, and 26/33 in group D experienced reduction in frequency of rescue medication use and 1/1 in group A, 12/12 in group B, 3/5 in group C, and 18/19 in group D had reduction in frequency of ER/hospital visits. Adverse effects were reported in 38, most commonly sedation and reduced appetite. Four patients (5%) discontinued stiripentol for adverse effects and two (2%) for lack of efficacy.

Significance

Stiripentol is an effective and well‐tolerated therapy that markedly reduced frequency of prolonged seizures in Dravet syndrome.
User‐centred design and educational data mining support during the recommendations elicitation process in social online learning environments
Authors: Santos Olga C. , Boticario Jesus G.
Published: July 2013

Social online learning environments provide new recommendation opportunities to meet users' needs. However, current educational recommender systems do not usually take advantage of these opportunities. To progress on this issue, we have proposed a knowledge engineering approach based on human–computer interaction (i.e. user‐centred design as defined by the standard ISO 9241‐210:2010) and artificial intelligence techniques (i.e. data mining) that involve educators in the process of eliciting educational oriented recommendations. To date, this approach differs from most recommenders in education in focusing on identifying relevant actions to be recommended on e‐learning services from a user‐centric perspective, thus widening the range of recommendation types. This approach has been used to identify 32 recommendations that consider several types of actions, which focus on promoting active participation of learners and on strengthening the sharing of experiences among peers through the usage of the social services provided by the learning environment. The paper describes where data mining techniques have been applied to complement the user‐centred design methods to produce social oriented recommendations in online learning environments.
Dynamic regulation of larval fish self‐recruitment in a marine protected area
Authors: Basterretxea Gotzon , Catalán Ignacio A. , Jordi Antoni , Álvarez Itziar , Palmer Miquel , Sabatés Ana
Published: July 2013

The factors that regulate the self‐recruitment of fish larvae were explored in Cabrera National Park (CNP), an insular Marine Protected Area (MPA) located off southern Mallorca (Western Mediterranean). Our study attributes the regulation of larval arrival to the MPA to a combination of retention by topographically generated circulation patterns around the island and shelf break frontal dynamics. Specifically, within the shelf, interaction of the wind‐induced oscillatory flow with the island was shown to generate ephemeral recirculation patterns that, over time, favor larval retention in the proximity of the MPA. According to our measurements, oscillatory flows produced by wind‐forced island‐trapped waves (ITWs) dominate the flow around CNP. ITW‐forced dispersion simulations were in agreement with the observed distributions of several typical fish species that breed in the CNP. A second regulator of environmental variability is the influence of boundary currents and open ocean mesoscale structures at the shelf break. These structures generate frontal zones that are comparatively more long‐lived than inner‐shelf circulation patterns, and they were shown to act as barriers to the offshore dispersion of coastal fish larval assemblages. Finally, inferences from larval size distributions around the MPA together with particle‐tracking model simulations suggested the relevance of behavioral processes for larval recruitment to the MPA. Based on these observations, the waters around the CNP can be viewed as a relatively stable system that allows breeding fish populations to rely on self‐recruitment for their long‐term persistence, independent of other source populations along the coast of Mallorca.
Integration of ecological and socio‐economic factors to assess global vulnerability to wildfire
Authors: Chuvieco Emilio , Martínez Susana , Román María Victoria , Hantson Stijn , Pettinari M. Lucrecia
Published: July 2013

Aim

This paper presents a map of global fire vulnerability, estimating the potential damage of wildland fires to global ecosystems.

Location

Global scale at 0.5° grid resolution.

Methods

Three vulnerability factors were considered: ecological richness and fragility, provision of ecosystem services and value of houses in the wildland–urban interface. Each of these factors was estimated from existing global databases. Ecological values were estimated from biodiversity relevance, conservation status and fragmentation based on Olson's ecoregions. The ecological regeneration delay was estimated from adaptation to fires and soil erosion potential. The former was assessed by comparing actual land cover with fire‐off simulations based on a dynamic global vegetation model (ORCHIDEE). The annual loss of ecosystem services was estimated with values transferred from other studies and loss coefficients. This was integrated throughout time by considering the regeneration delay. Value of houses was estimated at country level according to the market prices of real‐estate and land, the level of economic development and the population density. Economic and ecological evaluations were merged through cross‐tabulation logic to obtain qualitative ranks of fire vulnerability.

Results

The most vulnerable areas were found to be the rain forest of the Amazon Basin, Central Africa and Southeast Asia, the temperate forest of Europe, South America and north‐east America, and the ecological corridors of Central America and Southeast Asia. The lowest vulnerability was observed in boreal regions, particularly those already affected by fires or having low biodiversity, agricultural regions of Australia, India, Latin America and Central Asia.

Main conclusions

This is the first attempt to produce a map of global fire vulnerability, based on a wide variety of factors related to the impacts of fire on ecological and socio‐economic values. This product will help current efforts to model future scenarios of the impacts of biomass burning for different climate and land‐use scenarios.
The Association Between Use of Dietary Supplements and Headache or Migraine Complaints
Authors: Chiu Hsiao‐Yean , Tsai Pei‐Shan , Lee Cheng‐Chi , Liu Yu‐Tse , Huang Hui‐Chuan , Chen Pin‐Yuan
Published: July 2013

Purpose

To examine the prevalence of headache or migraine complaints and the use of dietary supplements, and to determine their correlation according to sex.

Methods

This population‐based cross‐sectional study used data from a 2005 National Health Interview Survey of 15,414 participants (age 18‐65 years) in Taiwan. Prevalence of headache or migraine complaints was accessed by a single question on their occurrence during the previous 3 months. Dietary supplement use was evaluated by another single question. Data were stratified by sex and analyzed using independent t‐test, chi‐square test, and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of headache or migraine complaints was 17.2% in males and 32.4% in females. The percentage of women taking supplements was 31.8%, which was much higher than the 15.5% of men. In male supplement users, use of isoflavones had a significantly higher odds ratio (OR) of headache or migraine complaint compared with those of male without use of isoflavones (adjusted OR = 3.86, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.68‐8.85). In females, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, and green algae supplement use had higher likelihoods of headache or migraine complaint in comparison to those of female without use of supplements (adjusted OR = 1.28, 1.21, and 1.43; 95% CI = 1.05‐1.57, 1.03‐1.42, and 1.07‐1.90, respectively).

Conclusions

This population‐based study confirmed sex‐specific associations between headache or migraine complaints and the use of dietary supplements, warranting further investigation of the underlying causes.
An experiment using hypothetical patient scenarios in healthy subjects to evaluate the treatment satisfaction and medication adherence intention relationship
Authors: Kucukarslan Suzan N. , Lee Kristin S. , Patel Tejal D. , Ruparelia Beejal
Published: July 2013

Background

Treatment beliefs and illness consequence have been shown to impact medication adherence in patients with years of asthma experience. These relationships are unknown in patients with early experience.

Objective

The purpose was to test the relationship between illness consequence, treatment beliefs, treatment satisfaction and medication adherence intentions in healthy subjects exposed to an asthma scenario.

Methods

A 2×2×2 factorial design experiment was conducted in 91 healthy University student subjects. Each student was randomized to receive one scenario with varying levels of illness consequence (high/low), treatment concerns (high/low) and treatment necessity (high/low). After reading the scenarios the students responded to questions about treatment satisfaction and likelihood of using the medication as directed by the physician. A multiple regression model was used to test the impact of factors on treatment satisfaction and medication adherence at the 0.05 level of significance.

Results

Treatment satisfaction was significantly predicted by treatment necessity with a moderating effect by illness consequence. Medication adherence intentions were significantly predicted by treatment satisfaction.

Conclusion

Patients with early diagnosis of asthma are likely to form treatment satisfaction as a result of illness consequence and treatment necessity. Patients' perceptions of illness consequence are likely to influence (moderate) the impact of treatment necessity on treatment satisfaction; and their intentions to take medication as directed are likely to be influenced by treatment satisfaction rather than treatment beliefs or illness consequence early in the patient illness experience. These results are from an experiment that should be tested in a patient population.
Ex‐military Personnel in the Criminal Justice System: A Cross‐sectional Study
Authors: Bray Isabelle , O'Malley Paula , Ashcroft Sarah , Adedeji Liz , Spriggs Adam
Published: July 2013

The aim of this article is to estimate the proportion of Regular veterans in England and Wales who are in prison or supervised by a Probation Trust. A cross‐sectional data linkage approach was taken, matching a database of Service leavers with prison and probation data. The proportion of those in the criminal justice system who are veterans was estimated to be 3.4%. For men aged 18–54 years, the proportion of the general population in prison was 43% (95% CI: 37%–49%) higher than the proportion of veterans in prison. There is no evidence that veterans are over‐represented in the criminal justice system.
Randomized in vivo trial evaluating plaque inhibition benefits of an advanced stannous‐containing sodium fluoride dentifrice used in conjunction with power brush technology
Authors: Bellamy PG , Boulding A , Farmer S , Day TN , Barker ML , Harris R , Mussett AJ
Published: July 2013

Objective

To compare the plaque inhibition efficacy of a novel stannous‐containing sodium fluoride test dentifrice to a standard anticavity negative control dentifrice, when both were used in conjunction with an advanced oscillating–rotating (O/R) power toothbrush.

Methods

This was a randomized, two‐treatment, three‐period, double‐blind crossover study conducted in a population using an O/R power brush. Subjects brushed twice per day with their assigned dentifrice during the three‐treatment periods, each lasting for 17 consecutive days. Each period was separated by a 4‐day washout period during which subjects continued to use their O/R power toothbrush. Plaque levels were assessed and averaged amongst three assessments taken on days 15, 16 and 17 at the end of each treatment period using digital plaque imaging analysis. Assessments were carried out on the facial anterior tooth surfaces in the morning before brushing (A.M. prebrush) following whole‐mouth brushing (30 s per quadrant) with the assigned dentifrice (A.M. post‐brush) and in the afternoon (P.M.).

Results

Twenty‐seven subjects were randomized and completed the study. During the 17‐day usage period, the stannous‐containing test NaF dentifrice demonstrated a statistically significant lower mean plaque area versus the negative control dentifrice at each assessment timepoint; overnight A.M. prebrush was 33.8% lower (P < 0.0001), A.M. post‐brush was 21.8% lower (P < 0.01), and P.M. was 29.2% lower (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

A population of O/R power toothbrush users had significantly less plaque coverage for all three measurements when using a stannous‐containing NaF dentifrice than when using a negative control (fluoride) dentifrice.
The impact of loupes and microscopes on vision in endodontics
Authors: Perrin P. , Neuhaus K. W. , Lussi A.
Published: July 2013

Aim

To report on an intraradicular visual test in a simulated clinical setting under different optical conditions.

Methodology

Miniaturized visual tests with E‐optotypes (bar distance from 0.01 to 0.05 mm) were fixed inside the root canal system of an extracted maxillary molar at different locations: at the orifice, a depth of 5 mm and the apex. The tooth was mounted in a phantom head for a simulated clinical setting. Unaided vision was compared with Galilean loupes (2.5× magnification) with integrated light source and an operating microscope (6× magnification). The influence of the dentists' age within two groups was evaluated: <40 years (n = 9) and ≥40 years (n = 15).

Results

Some younger dentists were able to identify the E‐optotypes at the orifice, but otherwise, natural vision did not reveal any measurable result. With Galilean loupes, the younger dentists <40 years could see a 0.05 mm structure at the root canal orifice, in contrast to the older group ≥40 years. Only the microscope allowed the observation of structures inside the root canal, independent of age.

Conclusion

Unaided vision and Galilean loupes with an integrated light source could not provide any measurable vision inside the root canal, but younger dentists <40 years could detect with Galilean loupes a canal orifice corresponding to the tip of the smallest endodontic instruments. Dentists over 40 years of age were dependent on the microscope to inspect the root canal system.
Dough rheological properties in relation to cracker‐making performance of organically grown spelt cultivars
Authors: Filipčev Bojana , Šimurina Olivera , Bodroža‐Solarov Marija , Brkljača Jovana
Published: July 2013

Cracker quality is highly influenced by the quality of flour. In this study, two spelt cultivars were analysed and evaluated in relation to cracker‐making performance and factors that influence cracker quality. For comparison, conventional commercial wheat flour was used. Results showed that the tested cultivars differed in their rheological properties. The obtained crackers were also of different qualities. The highest proportion in total variance of cracker quality (>45%) was due to geometric characteristics. The most significant parameter in cracker quality classification was the modified cookie factor. The tested spelt cultivars were able to produce crackers of acceptable quality characterised with lower snap back, higher cookie factor and lower hardness in comparison with control. But, spelt crackers developed less oven spring which negatively reflected to cracker texture. Among the flour and dough quality parameters, gluten quality parameters and zero shear viscosity were significantly correlated with most of the cracker quality attributes.
Activities and sequences of the angiotensin I‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptides obtained from the digested lentil (Lens culinaris) globulins
Authors: Jakubczyk Anna , Baraniak Barbara
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was the identification of potentially bioaccessible ACE‐inhibitory peptides obtained by in vitro gastrointestinal digestion of lentil globulins. ACE‐inhibitory peptides were purified by ion exchange chromatography and gel filtration. After the first step of purification, three peptide fractions with potential antihypertensive properties were obtained and the highest inhibitory activity was determined for the fraction 5 (IC50 = 0.02 mg mL−1). This fraction was separated on Sephadex G10, and six peptide fractions were obtained. The peptides of fraction (5‐F) with the highest potential antihypertensive activity (IC50 = 0.13 mg mL−1) were identified using ESI‐MS/MS. The sequences of peptides were KLRT, TLHGMV and VNRLM. Based on Lineweaver–Burk plots for the fraction 5‐F, the kinetic parameters as Km (1.24 mm), Vmax (0.012 U min−1), Ki (0.12 mg mL−1) and mode of inhibition were determined.
Effects of catechin on the phenolic content and antioxidant properties of low‐fat cheese
Authors: Rashidinejad Ali , Birch E. John , Sun‐Waterhouse Dongxiao , Everett David W.
Published: July 2013

The effect of (+)‐catechin on total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant properties in low‐fat hard cheese were examined over a 90‐day ripening period at 8 °C. Antioxidant activity (AA) in cheese was measured by ferric reducing antioxidant power, oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl assays and compared with TPC. Catechin retention coefficients in cheese curds were in the range of 0.63–0.75 and decreased the pH of cheese without affecting protein, fat or moisture content. Both TPC and AA increased during the 90‐day ripening period. Oxygen radical absorbance capacity was the most suitable technique for evaluating AA in cheese due to the high correlation with TPC and suitability in both lipophilic and hydrophilic systems.
Bioactive action of β‐glucosidase enzyme of Bifidobacterium longum upon isoflavone glucosides present in soymilk
Authors: Marazza José A. , Nazareno Mónica A. , Savoy de Giori Graciela , Garro Marisa S.
Published: July 2013

Bioconversion of isoflavone glucosides and antioxidant activity by probiotic strain (Bifidobacterium longum) during soymilk fermentation was investigated, as well as partial characterisation of the produced enzyme β‐glucosidase. The enzyme has higher affinity for genistin than for other substrates assayed. Maximum activity occurred at 42 °C and at pH 6.0; keeping 70–80% of activity for 60 days stored at low temperatures. Bifidobacterium longum grew well in soymilk (8.26 log CFU mL−1 and pH of 3.9 at 24 h) and were produced in good quantities of organic acids. High hydrolysis degree of isoflavone glucosides (81.2%) was observed at 24 h. Enhancements in bioactivity were assessed in fermented soymilk by monitoring the radical‐scavenging activity, antioxidant activity and DNA protective action. The use of probiotic Bifidobacterium strain as β‐glucosidase producer increased bioactive isoflavone content and demonstrated that this enzyme plays a key role in the bioavailability of soymilk isoflavones, reducing the bioconversion time compared to other studies.
Evaluation of biomechanical properties of Expanded‐Polytetrafluoroethylene™ Soft Tissue Patch after dorsal implantation in the rat to mimic TMJ lateral reconstruction
Authors: LAI W.‐F. T. , STOCKSTILL J. W. , DENG W.‐P. , BOWLEY J. , BURCH J. G.
Published: July 2013

SUMMARY Clinically, Gore‐Tex Expanded‐Polytetrafluoroethylene™ (E‐PTFE™) has been used to reconstruct the lateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ligament. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in the biomechanical properties of implanted E‐PTFE™ over time with respect to tissue infiltration. Ninety‐six specimens of implants were divided into four groups. Group A was the experimental group. Thirty‐six autoclave‐sterilized specimens were subcutaneously implanted into the backs of 36 rats. The rats were randomly sacrificed at 2 (n= 12), 7 (n= 12) and 12 (n = 12) weeks. The implants were tested for mechanical properties including maximal stress, strain and Young's modulus of elasticity (E) using the servo‐hydraulic material testing system (MTS). Group B was the in vitro control group. Thirty‐six specimens were placed in tissue culture media at 37 °C for a time period equivalent to the experimental group to simulate the effect of a moist, warm environment on biomechanical properties. Group C was the temperature and pressure control group. Twelve specimens were autoclave‐sterilized to determine the changes of tensile strength under high temperature and pressure. Control group D (no treatment) was tested to determine the initial tensile strength. The results showed significantly larger maximal stress as well as an increase in E and smaller maximal strain in experimental group A than in control groups B, C and D. There was no significant difference among control groups B, C and D. Histological examination of implants at 12 weeks demonstrated that 0·2–0·3 mm of 1‐mm thick implants were occupied by connective tissue from each side. It may be concluded that E‐PTFE™ implants become stronger and less flexible after implantation in vivo.
Les effets de la crise économique sur les marchés du travail européens
Authors: TRIDICO Pasquale
Published: July 2013

L'auteur évalue le comportement des vingt‐sept Etats membres de l'Union européenne face à la crise au moyen d'un indice de gestion de la crise qui combine leurs résultats en matière de PIB et de marché du travail. Il conclut que ceux qui ont le mieux réussi partagent un modèle d'économie de marché coordonné associant des politiques économiques et des institutions sociales qui les ont aidés à stabiliser leurs niveaux de consommation et de demande globales. En outre, leurs marchés du travail ne sont pas flexibilisés, ce qui a permis de maintenir un certain niveau d'emploi.
En quoi les marchés du travail corporatistes diffèrent‐ils? Régimes du marché du travail et chômage dans les pays de l'OCDE
Authors: STURN Simon
Published: July 2013

Les études empiriques relatives aux effets des institutions du marché du travail sur le chômage donnent des résultats contradictoires. Une explication est que ces institutions affectent différemment le chômage selon le régime dans lequel elles opèrent. Elles ont des effets spécifiques dans les régimes corporatistes grâce à de bonnes relations professionnelles, des complémentarités institutionnelles et des compromis entre flexibilité interne et externe. S'appuyant sur un panel de vingt pays de l'OCDE entre 1985 et 2008, l'auteur constate que sur les marchés du travail corporatistes une protection rigoureuse de l'emploi réduit le chômage et que les allocations de chômage n'ont pas d'effet négatif. Il montre aussi que lors des récessions le chômage est aggravé par des taux d'intérêt réels élevés, une faible accumulation du capital et l'austérité budgétaire.
Las curvas de Beveridge y de Phillips en la zona del euro ante la crisis
Authors: SELL Friedrich L. , REINISCH David C.
Published: July 2013

Ante las numerosas críticas contra la economía convencional por su incapacidad para predecir y evitar la crisis económica mundial, los autores verifican la eficacia empírica de las curvas de Phillips y de Beveridge ante la crisis con datos de panel sobre once países de la zona del euro para 2007–2010. Tras confirmar la fiabilidad de ambas relaciones (desempleo y vacantes, y desempleo e inflación, respectivamente), los autores estudian la correlación entre inflación y vacantes. Las tres relaciones apuntan a la necesidad de combinar políticas de la oferta y políticas de la demanda para reducir el desempleo.
Productividad, desindicalización y comercio: efectos sobre el salario y la participación de la renta del trabajo
Authors: JUDZIK Darío , SALA Héctor
Published: July 2013

Suponiendo una relación de uno a uno entre salarios y productividad, hasta ahora se han estudiado sobre todo los efectos sobre el salario y el empleo de las «hostiles» instituciones laborales. Aquí se analizan más bien los efectos del crecimiento de la productividad, la desindicalización y el comercio internacional a largo plazo –entre 1980 y 2010– en España, Estados Unidos, Finlandia, Francia, Italia, Japón, Reino Unido y Suecia. Tras neutralizar la variable productividad, se observa una tendencia descendente de los salarios asociada con una menor densidad sindical y una mayor exposición al comercio internacional, además de una erosión de la participación de la renta del trabajo en la renta total.
Metarreglamentación de las relaciones laborales en Europa: dinámicas de poder y competencia entre normativas nacionales
Authors: PAPADOPOULOS Theodoros , ROUMPAKIS Antonios
Published: July 2013

El término «metarreglamentación» describe un modo de gobernanza transnacional surgido en un intento de resolver el conflicto entre las normativas laborales y la libertad de provisión de servicios y de desplazamiento de trabajadores en toda la Unión Europea. Se sustenta en el principio de competencia, no solo entre trabajadores de diversos Estados miembros, sino también entre sus normativas laborales. Basándose en los conceptos de poder estructural y campo social, el artículo examina casos empíricos que ilustran la metarreglamentación paulatina de las relaciones laborales en la UE y demuestran que la asimetría que caracteriza las relaciones de poder entre trabajo y capital se está ampliando a favor de este último.
Efectos del desempleo a corto y largo plazo en la tasa de mortalidad en Europa
Authors: BENDER Keith A. , ECONOMOU Athina , THEODOSSIOU Ioannis
Published: July 2013

Las investigaciones recientes sobre la relación entre desempleo y mortalidad arrojan resultados contradictorios. En este estudio se distingue entre efectos del desempleo inmediatos y a largo plazo, y se estima la relación utilizando datos agregados de 11 países europeos para el periodo 1971–2001. Los resultados revelan que los estudios anteriores según los cuales el aumento del desempleo conduce a un descenso de la mortalidad se referían a sus efectos inmediatos y que, a largo plazo, el desempleo se asocia con un aumento de la mortalidad de mucha mayor envergadura. Estos resultados son aplicables a casi todas las causas de mortalidad contempladas.
Empleo y salarios en Alemania tras la desreglamentación del trabajo temporal por agencia en 2004
Authors: GARZ Marcel
Published: July 2013

A partir de datos empíricos, se examina cómo la desreglamentación del trabajo temporal por agencia en Alemania en 2004 afectó al empleo y a los salarios, controlando efectos macroeconómicos y características personales y del puesto de trabajo. Se constata un aumento del trabajo temporal tras la reforma, sin efecto en el total de empleo, lo que apunta a efectos de sustitución. La brecha salarial entre trabajadores de plantilla y temporales aumentó (posible recurso a estos últimos para reducir costos laborales), aunque la diferencia salarial parece deberse sobre todo a determinadas características personales, más frecuentes entre los trabajadores temporales que entre los de plantilla.