bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overweight and Obesity as Risk Indicators for Periodontitis in Adults
Authors: Dalla Vecchia Caroline Formolo , Susin Cristiano , Rösing Cassiano Kuchenbecker , Oppermann Rui Vicente , Albandar Jasim M.
Published: October 2005

Background: Developed and developing countries are facing an obesity epidemic with various health consequences. Few studies have addressed the relationship between obesity and periodontal health. The present study assessed the association of overweight and obesity with periodontitis in Brazilian adults.

Methods: A representative probability sample comprising 706 subjects aged 30 to 65 years from south Brazil was examined clinically and using a structured interview. Overweight and obesity were assessed by body mass index (BMI) using the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. Individuals with ≥30% teeth with attachment loss ≥5 mm were classified as having periodontitis. Statistical analysis accounted for survey design, and separate analyses were performed for non‐smokers.

Results: In this population, 60% and 65% of males and females, respectively, were overweight or obese. Periodontitis was observed in 50.7% and 35.3% of males and females, respectively. The percentage of males with periodontitis was similar in the overweight/obese individuals compared to those with normal weight. In females, there was a positive correlation between the BMI index and the occurrence of periodontitis, with a significantly (P <0.05) higher prevalence of periodontitis in obese than in normal weight females. The multivariable analysis showed that obese females were significantly more likely (odds ratio = 2.1) to have periodontitis than normal weight females. A separate analysis for non‐smokers showed that obese females were approximately 3.4 times more likely to have periodontitis than the normal BMI group. There were no significant differences in the prevalence of periodontitis between BMI groups among smokers of both genders and in male non‐smokers.

Conclusions: Obesity was significantly associated with periodontitis in adult, non‐smoker women. Overweight was not significantly associated with periodontitis. Smoking may attenuate the association of periodontitis with obesity.
Prostaglandin Production by Human Gingival Fibroblasts Inhibited by Triclosan in the Presence of Cetylpyridinium Chloride
Authors: Kim Young Joon , Rossa Carlos , Kirkwood Keith L.
Published: October 2005

Background: The effect of triclosan plus the cationic detergent cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) was evaluated for prostaglandin inhibition in human gingival fibroblasts. Since triclosan has previously been shown to inhibit proinflammatory cytokine induced prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production, we wanted to determine if triclosan, in the presence of CPC, could enhance these effects.

Methods: Initial studies determined that both triclosan and CPC were cytotoxic to human gingival fibroblasts in concentrations exceeding 1.0 μg/ml for either agent longer than 24 hours in a tissue culture. Therefore, subsequent studies measuring prostaglandin biosynthesis and cyclooxygenase (COX)‐1 and COX‐2 mRNA expression were performed in concentrations and times that did not significantly affect cell viability.

Results: PGE2 biosynthesis was dose dependently inhibited by both triclosan and triclosan and CPC when challenged by tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α or interleukin (IL)‐1β. At pharmacologically relevant concentrations, triclosan and CPC inhibited IL‐1β‐induced PGE2 production to a greater extent than triclosan alone (P = 0.02). Moreover, enhanced COX‐2 mRNA repression was observed with triclosan and CPC in comparison to triclosan alone in IL‐1β and TNF‐α stimulated cells. No effect on COX‐1 gene expression was observed. Further analysis of cell signaling mechanisms of triclosan and CPC indicates that nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) and not p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling may be impaired in the presence of triclosan and CPC.

Conclusion: This study indicates that triclosan and CPC are more effective at inhibiting PGE2 at the level of COX‐2 gene regulation, and this combination may offer a potentially better anti‐inflammatory agent in the treatment of inflammatory lesions in the oral cavity.
Biological Evaluation of Chitosan Nanofiber Membrane for Guided Bone Regeneration
Authors: Shin Seung‐Yun , Park Ho‐Nam , Kim Kyoung‐Hwa , Lee Myung‐Hee , Choi Young Suk , Park Yoon‐Jeong , Lee Yong‐Moo , Ku Young , Rhyu In‐Chul , Han Soo‐Boo , Lee Seung‐Jin , Chung Chong‐Pyoung
Published: October 2005

Background: Chitosan is known as a biodegradable and non‐toxic natural polymer that enhances wound healing and bone formation. The aims of this study are to evaluate the biocompatibility of chitosan nanofiber membranes and to examine the effect of the chitosan nanofiber membranes on bone regeneration in rabbit calvarial defects.

Methods: In vitro cell proliferation tests using human osteosarcoma cell line MG63 and reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) to evaluate the expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), collagen, osteocalcin (OCN), and GAPDH were done on chitosan nanofiber membranes. Chitosan nanofiber membranes were implanted in subcutaneous connective tissue and observed for 2, 4, and 6 weeks in rats. Ten‐millimeter diameter round cranial defects were made in rabbits and covered by chitosan nanofiber membranes for 4 weeks. Specimens were decalcified and observed by a light microscope.

Results: MG63 cells proliferated for 28 days on the chitosan nanofiber membranes and expressed ALP, collagen, OCN, and GAPDH at 2 weeks. Chitosan nanofiber membranes that were grafted into rat subcutaneous tissue maintained their shape and space for bone regeneration for as long as 6 weeks. No inflammation could be seen on the membrane surface or in the surrounding tissues. In the rabbit calvarial defects, new bone filled the defects and fused to the original old bone in 4 weeks.

Conclusions: The biocompatibility of the chitosan nanofiber membrane was confirmed, with enhanced bone regeneration and no evidence of an inflammatory reaction. This experiment shows that the novel biodegradable chitosan nanofiber membrane may be useful as a tool for guided bone regeneration.
A Comparison Between Enamel Matrix Derivative and a Bioabsorbable Membrane to Enhance Healing Around Transmucosal Immediate Post‐Extraction Implants
Authors: Cangini Filippo , Cornelini Roberto
Published: October 2005

Background: This clinical report compares the use of an enamel matrix derivative (EMD) and bioabsorbable barrier membrane to enhance healing following the immediate placement of transmucosal implants into extraction sockets.

Methods: Thirty‐two adult patients scheduled for tooth replacement with dental implants agreed to participate. Following the insertion of a transmucosal implant into the extraction site, the subjects were assigned to one of two treatment alternatives of the remaining bone defects around the implants: 1) the residual bone defects were filled with EMD (EMD group) or 2) the residual bone defects were covered with a bioabsorbable membrane (membrane group). Flaps were then coronally positioned around implant cover screws. Patients followed weekly maintenance recalls for the first 6 weeks and then monthly recalls until the final prosthetic restoration was completed (after 6 months). The treatment outcome was evaluated after 12 months by the use of clinical variables. The null hypothesis of no treatment group differences was tested by the use of analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results: At a 12‐month follow‐up, all of the implants were completely osseointegrated and successfully functioning, showing a success rate of 100%. The membrane group showed a significantly lower mean probing attachment level than the EMD group at proximal (0.60 mm, standard deviation (SD) 0.37 versus 1.19 mm, SD 1.10), buccal (0.80 mm, SD 0.79 versus 1.77 mm, SD 1.16), and lingual sites (0.44 mm, SD 0.52 versus 1.48 mm, SD 1.46). The difference was statistically significant at all sites (P <0.05). With respect to the position of the soft tissue margin around the implant shoulder, the membrane group showed a consistently higher value than the EMD group at, respectively, proximal (1.30 mm, SD 2.37 versus 1.16 mm, SD 1.0), buccal (0.90 mm, SD 1.29 versus 0.22 mm, SD 1.47), and lingual sites (1.12 mm, SD 1.10 versus 0.55 mm, SD 1.42).

Conclusions: The membrane group obtained more favorable results in terms of both the probing attachment level and peri‐implant position of soft tissues compared to the EMD group. The use of a bioabsorbable membrane around immediately placed transmucosal implants enhanced soft and hard tissue healing and might be an advisable treatment choice particularly in areas with high esthetic demands.
Iatrogenic Trauma to Oral Tissues
Authors: Ozcelik Onur , Haytac M. Cenk , Akkaya Murat
Published: October 2005

Background: Iatrogenic trauma can be defined as any trauma that has been induced by the dentist's activity, manner, or therapy. The aim of this article is to present traumatic oral tissue lesions of iatrogenic origin.

Methods: Thirteen cases of chemical (due to ferric sulfate and formocresol), physical (due to orthodontic wires and appliances), and thermal (due to electrosurgery) injuries to the oral tissues are reported.

Results: Chemical, physical, and thermal injuries in the oral, gingival, or palatinal mucosa of iatrogenic origin can exhibit various clinical features. The management of traumatic injuries is dependent on the severity of the involvement in the periodontal tissues. While, in most cases, the elimination of the offending agent and symptomatic therapy were sufficient, in severe cases, or when the injury resulted in permanent defects, periodontal surgery and regenerative therapy may be necessary.

Conclusions: The skill, experience, and up‐to‐date knowledge of dentists are the main factors to prevent possible iatrogenic traumas. Although “To err is human,” careful practice is very important for the principle “Primum non nocere” (“First do no harm”).
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Presenting as an Endodontic‐Periodontic Lesion
Authors: Levi Paul A. , Kim David M. , Harsfield Scott L. , Jacobson Erica R.
Published: October 2005

Background: Regardless of advances in diagnosis and treatment during the past 40 years, the overall 5‐year survival rates for oral and oropharyngeal squamous cancers have only slightly improved and remain around 50%. Thus, the early diagnosis and treatment of carcinoma by health care providers are essential in achieving a good prognosis. We report a case of invasive squamous cell carcinoma that presented as a benign endodontic‐periodontic lesion with a 7‐mm periodontal pocket on tooth #15 in a 40‐year‐old, non‐smoking woman. The subsequent management of the case is also discussed. The study was conducted in accordance with the Helsinki Declaration of 1975, as revised in 2000.

Methods: Our patient was seen for a comprehensive periodontal examination including a periodontal charting, occlusal analysis, study casts, electronic pulp test for tooth #15, and complete mouth periapical radiographs. As there was a periapical radiolucency, an endodontic consultation was obtained. A periodontal flap surgical procedure was performed on teeth #13 to #15, and as there was bone erosion into the maxillary sinus, a biopsy of the soft tissue was submitted to the local hospital for histological analysis.

Results: The biopsied lesion was diagnosed as invasive, moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma with focal spindle and clear cell differentiation (grade II to III of IV). Bone invasion was also identified. The treatment of the carcinoma involved a hemimaxillectomy with the removal of the maxillary left posterior teeth. The patient remained free of tumor for 5 years after the initial presentation.

Conclusions: Patient education and periodic oral cancer examinations by dental professionals are necessary to reduce diagnostic delay and improve prognosis. This case report emphasizes the important role of dental professionals, especially periodontists and endodontists, of being aware that squamous cell carcinoma may manifest itself clinically and/or radiographically as a common periodontal or endodontic lesion.
Persistent and Growing Socioeconomic Disparities in Disability Among the Elderly: 1982–2002
Authors: Schoeni Robert F. , Martin Linda G. , Andreski Patricia M. , Freedman Vicki A.
Published: October 2005

Objective. We sought to determine whether socioeconomic and racial/ethnic disparities in prevalence of disability over age 70 have widened or narrowed during the past 2 decades.

Methods. We used data from the 1982–2002 National Health Interview Surveys, which are nationally representative cross-sectional surveys of the noninstitutionalized population of the United States. Participants included 172227 people aged 70 years and older. The primary outcome measure was the average annual percentage change in the prevalence of 2 self-reported disability measures: the need for help with activities of daily living (“ADL disability”) and need for help with either ADL or instrumental activities of daily living (“any disability”).

Results. All groups experienced declines in the age- and gender-adjusted prevalence of any disability during the 1982 to 2002 period. However, the average annual percent declines were smaller for the least advantaged socioeconomic groups. Differences in trends across racial/ethnic groups were not statistically significant. ADL disability prevalence decreased for the more advantaged groups but increased among the lowest income and education groups. Non-Hispanic Whites and minorities experienced similar average annual percent declines in ADL disability.

Conclusions. Racial/ethnic disparities in old-age disability have persisted over the last 20 years, whereas socioeconomic disparities have increased.
Temperature, Nitrogen and Light Effects on Hybrid Bermudagrass Growth and Development
Authors: Stanford R. L. , White R. H. , Krausz J. P. , Thomas J. C. , Colbaugh P. , Abernathy S. D.
Published: October 2005

‘Tifdwarf’ bermudagrass [C. dactylon (L.) Pers. × C. transvaalensis Burtt‐Davy] is one of the most widely used cultivars on golf course putting greens in the southern USA because of its superior putting green quality. This study evaluated the effects of photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD), temperature, and nitrogen fertilization on growth and development of Tifdwarf bermudagrass. In controlled environment studies, increasing N increased bermudagrass internode length, leaf length, and shoot weights. Increasing N had no significant effect on the chronological appearance rate of successive leaves and axillary buds. The phyllochron was positively correlated with day/night temperature. The internode and leaf length were greatest at the 27/19°C treatment and least at the 35/27°C treatment. Internode length increased from 20 to 40 mm as the PPFD decreased from 975 to 300 μmol m−2 s−1 at 27/19°C but only increased from 10 to 22 mm long at 35/27°C. Leaf lengths responded similarly. Leaf and internode length were greater at low than at high day/night temperatures regardless of incident light. The alteration in growth form occurred within 3 to 4 d of treatment initiation. Results indicated that temperature as well as light levels regulated expression of dwarfness in Tifdwarf bermudagrass. In regions that typically have long periods with daytime temperatures of 27°C or less and a PPFD of 600 μmol m−2 s−1 or less, the growth form of Tifdwarf bermudagrass may change dramatically, resulting in plants with longer internode spacings and longer leaves. Because of this change in growth form, one may expect faster coverage from newly planted sprigs and faster recovery from disruptive cultural activities when the daytime temperatures are 27°C or less as compared with periods when the daytime temperatures are 30°C or above and the PPFD is >1000 μmol m−2 s−1 as is typical of summer in southern climates.
Predicting the Dissolution of Rock Phosphates in Flooded Acid Sulfate Soils
Authors: Yampracha Sukunya , Attanandana Tasnee , Sidibe-Diarra Aminata , Yost Russell S.
Published: October 2005

Seven hundred sixty thousand hectares of acid sulfate soils in Central Plain of Thailand are used for rice (Oryza sativaL.) cultivation. Insufficient nutrient P seriously limits rice growth and yield. A local rock phosphate (RP) Kanchanaburi RP (KRP), a reference RP (Gafsa from Tunisia), and a KRP containing soluble P (KRPS) were used to investigate the dissolution and availability in six acid sulfate soils under flooded conditions. The soil properties that have a major influence on RP dissolution and P sorption were investigated for developing a model and algorithms for estimating the RP requirement for rice. High KCl‐extractable aluminum (Al_KCl) and low soil pH enhanced the dissolution of KRP, Gafsa, and KRPS. The substantial calcium carbonate equivalent of the RP increased the pH of soils and limited RP dissolution. The P sorption of the soils was estimated using Bray 1 and 2 extractions. The P sorption was apparently greater than RP dissolution a few days after submergence in some acid sulfate soils, decreasing the Bray 1 level. Phosphorus extractable by Bray 2 increased with incubation time where KRP, Gafsa, and KRPS were applied. Amounts of RP predicted using an algorithm based on predicted dissolution and sorption in the various soils were similar to a local estimate of RP requirement.
Monitoring and Modeling Lateral Transport through a Large In Situ Chamber
Authors: Starr James L. , Sadeghi Ali M. , Pachepsky Yakov A.
Published: October 2005

Accurate characterization of lateral transport components is an important step toward a more quantitative assessment of the fate and transport of nutrients and the functionality of riparian/wetland systems. Our specific objectives were: (i) to design an in situ chamber for studying lateral flow under shallow watertable and riparian zone conditions; (ii) to monitor predominantly horizontal transport of non‐conservative (NO3) and conservative (Br) tracers in shallow saturated zone of the soil monolith; and (iii) to obtain reaction and transport parameters, and additional insights about the flow and transport inside the soil monolith. HYDRUS‐2D model was used to simulate flow and transport of Br and NO3, and to evaluate the applicability of this model to the observed flow and transport. Advective‐dispersive equation (ADE) and mobile‐immobile zone model (MIM) options were tested using the Br data. The breakthrough curves (BTCs) of NO3 and Br were similar while the concentrations rose, then became distinctly different with NO3 concentrations decreasing much faster. The calibrated denitrification rate of 0.713 ± 0.211 d−1 was about an order and a half of magnitude larger in the loam layer (25–35 cm) than in the overlaying sandy loam layer (0–25 cm) and in the sandy clay loam layer (35–65 cm) below. Up to 60% of the introduced NO3 was lost to denitrification. The methodology presented here allowed the in situ estimation reaction and transport needed for modeling; and it showed a potential to provide detailed information critical for the interpretation of the modeling outcomes performed at field and watershed levels.
Scientific Integrity, third Ed
Authors: Logsdon Sally
Published: October 2005

F.L. Macrina. Published by American Society for Microbiology Press, 1752 N. St., NW, Washington, DC, 20036. 2005. 428 p. $49.95. ISBN: 1–55581–318–6
Determining Soil Hydraulic Properties from Tension Infiltrometer Measurements
Authors: Si Bing Cheng , Bodhinayake Waduwawatte
Published: October 2005

Tension infiltrometer measurements have been used to measure steady‐state infiltration rates at applied tensions. The measurements can be used to determined soil hydraulic properties through linear or nonlinear regression. Such regression methods are often based on a few imprecise field measurements, and the traditional regression analysis may not yield valid estimates and reliable predictions. The objective of this study is to introduce fuzzy linear regression as an alternative to statistical regression analysis in determining hydraulic properties from tension infiltrometer measurements. Using a tension infiltrometer, in situ steady‐state infiltration rates [q∞(h)] were measured at six different tensions (h) between 3 and 22 cm of water on silty loam and clay loam soils. Hydraulic properties (i.e., field saturated hydraulic conductivity, Kfs, and inverse macroscopic capillary length scale, αG) and their confidence intervals were estimated following the fuzzy least‐square linear regression procedure with the minimum fuzziness criterion and linear least‐squares method (traditional statistical method). Both calculation procedures yielded the same mean hydraulic properties. A comparison between fuzzy and statistical ln q∞(h) relationship indicated that the confidence bands resulting from both procedures enveloped all the measurement points, but fuzzy regression estimates offered a tighter fit around the midpoint values (least‐square estimates). Fuzzy linear regression is more reliable and may be used as a complement or an alternative to statistical linear regression analysis for determining hydraulic properties from tension infiltrometer measurements.
Diphenylmethanofullerenes: New and Efficient Acceptors in Bulk‐Heterojunction Solar Cells
Authors: Riedel I. , von Hauff E. , Parisi J. , Martín N. , Giacalone F. , Dyakonov V.
Published: October 2005

A novel fullerene derivative, 1,1‐bis(4,4′‐dodecyloxyphenyl)‐(5,6) C61, diphenylmethanofullerene (DPM‐12), has been investigated as a possible electron acceptor in photovoltaic devices, in combination with two different conjugated polymers poly[2‐methoxy‐5‐(3′,7′‐dimethyloctyloxy)‐para‐phenylene vinylene] (OC1C10‐PPV) and poly[3‐hexyl thiophene‐2,5‐diyl] (P3HT). High open‐circuit voltages, VOC = 0.92 and 0.65 V, have been measured for OC1C10‐PPV:DPM‐12‐ and P3HT:DPM‐12‐based devices, respectively. In both cases, VOC is 100 mV above the values measured on devices using another routinely used fullerene acceptor, [6,6]‐phenyl‐C61 butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM). This is somewhat unexpected when taking into account the identical redox potentials of both acceptor materials at room temperature. The temperature‐dependent VOC reveals, however, the same effective bandgap (HOMOPolymer–LUMOFullerene; HOMO = highest occupied molecular orbital, LUMO = lowest unoccupied molecular orbital) of 1.15 and 0.9 eV for OC1C10‐PPV and P3HT, respectively, independent of the acceptor used. The higher VOC at room temperature is explained by different ideality factors in the dark‐diode characteristics. Under white‐light illumination (80 mW cm–2), photocurrent densities of 1.3 and 4.7 mA cm–2 have been obtained in the OC1C10‐PPV:DPM‐12‐ and P3HT:DPM‐12‐based devices, respectively. Temperature‐dependent current density versus voltage characteristics reveal a thermally activated (shallow trap recombination limited) photocurrent in the case of OC1C10‐PPV:DPM‐12, and a nearly temperature‐independent current density in P3HT:DPM‐12. The latter clearly indicates that charge carriers traverse the active layer without significant recombination, which is due to the higher hole‐mobility–lifetime product in P3HT. At the same time, the field‐effect electron mobility in pure DPM‐12 has been found to be μe = 2 × 10–4 cm2 V–1 s–1, that is, forty‐times lower than the one measured in PCBM (μe = 8 × 10–3 cm2 V–1 s–1).
Facial nerve palsy after acute exposure to dichloromethane
Authors: Jacubovich R.M. , Landau D. , Dayan Y. Bar , Zilberberg M. , Goldstein L.
Published: October 2005

Background

Dichloromethane poisoning affects predominantly the central nervous and the cardiovascular systems, and results from both carboxyhemoglobin formation and direct solvent‐related narcosis. Exposure is frequently occupational and related to paint‐stripping. Several reports have described severe adverse effects as well as fatalities. Conflicting reports regarding peripheral nerve toxicity have been found with no reports of clinical acute toxicity heretofore.

Methods

We present a case report of a patient who developed a facial nerve palsy after acute occupational exposure to Dichloromethane. The patient was part of a paint removing crew who have worked without proper protecting measures and were thus exposed to high levels of Dichoromethane.

Results

The patient was involved in paint stripping with Dichloromethane, and developed facial nerve palsy. Other known causes of facial palsy were excluded, and although idiopathic palsy cannot be ruled out, there were no corroborating findings. Carboxyhemoglobin levels taken after a significant delay were normal.

Conclusion

This is the first article that describes a case of Facial Nerve Palsy related to acute dichloromethane exposure, indicating a possible peripheral neurotoxic effect of this solvent. Am. J. Ind. Med. 48:389–392, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Methods for using narrative text from injury reports to identify factors contributing to construction injury
Authors: Bondy Jessica , Lipscomb Hester , Guarini Kenneth , Glazner Judith E.
Published: October 2005

Background

Several methods exist for classifying injuries from written text, thereby identifying possible points of intervention. We describe an innovative method for such classification.

Methods

Using Haddon's matrix as a framework, two independent reviewers coded text from over 4,000 injury reports into a qualitative software package to identify factors contributing to injuries sustained during construction of Denver International Airport (DIA). We compared our classification scheme with three others.

Results

This process created a coded data set, an expanded version of Haddon's matrix adapted for construction injury, and coding rules for interpreting narrative text. Haddon's matrix provides a flexible theoretical framework for coding information about a spectrum of contributing factors.

Conclusions

Narrative descriptions from injury reports can provide detail on circumstances surrounding injuries and identify factors contributing to injury. Forms guiding investigators to explicitly consider human, organizational, and environmental factors could foster more complete descriptions of factors contributing to construction injury. Am. J. Ind. Med. 48:373–380, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Machine safety evaluation in small metal working facilities: An evaluation of inter‐rater reliability in the quantification of machine‐related hazards
Authors: Munshi Kaizad , Parker David , Samant Yogindra , Brosseau Lisa , Pan Wei , Xi Min
Published: October 2005

Background

Each year there are an estimated 4.2–6.7 amputations per 10,000 workers in the metal fabrication trades in the United States. The Minnesota Machine Guarding Study evaluates the effectiveness of a peer‐based technical and educational intervention designed to reduce exposure to amputation hazards among workers in small machining/metal working shops. The study reported here involved the development and evaluation of methods for measuring machine safety, which will be used in the intervention study.

Methods

Using OSHA regulations, ANSI standards, and industry best practices, we developed 23 machine‐safety scorecards. The safety scores were dependent on the presence or absence of guards, other safety devices and implements, and the presence or absence of acceptable administrative programs. Inter‐rater reliability was assessed for the evaluation of eight types of commonly used metal fabrication machines.

Results

Of the 23 most common types of machines, there were a sufficient number of machines to evaluate inter‐rater reliability for eight types. Three raters in four shops assessed fifty‐nine machines. Overall, the kappa statistic ranged from 0.57 to 0.84, indicating good to very good concordance between raters. In general, machines did not fare well with regard to compliance with current standards.

Discussion

The ability to assess machine‐related hazards is important in industries where it is difficult to identify and count injuries in a timely fashion. Machinists and safety professionals may use this scoring system as a means of reproducible assessment of machine safety. Am. J. Ind. Med. 48:381–388, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Plasma total homocysteine and memory in the elderly: The Hordaland Homocysteine study
Authors: Nurk Eha , Refsum Helga , Tell Grethe S. , Engedal Knut , Vollset Stein E. , Ueland Per M. , Nygaard Harald A. , Smith A. David
Published: October 2005

We examined the relation between plasma total homocysteine (tHcy), folate, vitamin B12, and episodic memory in elderly community‐dwelling subjects. A population‐based study was conducted in 1992 and 1993, and subjects were re‐investigated after 6 years. Plasma analytes were determined on both occasions. At follow‐up, memory performance, using the Kendrick Object Learning Test, was investigated in 2,189 subjects (age, 65–67 years at baseline). Subjects with memory deficit (test score, <25) had higher tHcy and lower folate at follow‐up compared with those without memory deficit: 12.6 (95% confidence interval [CI], 12.1, 13.1) versus 11.5 (95% CI, 11.3, 11.6) μmol/L (p < 0.001) for tHcy, and 6.7 (95% CI, 6.2, 7.1) versus 7.6 (95% CI, 7.5, 7.8) nmol/L (p < 0.001) for folate. The risk of memory deficit increased according to quintiles of tHcy both at baseline and at follow‐up. A decline in tHcy, or an increase in folate, over a 6‐year period was associated with a higher memory test score; and vice versa. These findings indicate that increased plasma tHcy is an independent risk factor for memory deficit both cross‐sectionally and prospectively, and that a “favorable” change in folate or tHcy concentrations over time is associated with better memory performance. Ann Neurol 2005
Common variants of LRRK2 are not associated with sporadic Parkinson's disease
Authors: Biskup Saskia , Mueller Jakob C. , Sharma Manu , Lichtner Peter , Zimprich Alexander , Berg Daniela , Wüllner Ullrich , Illig Thomas , Meitinger Thomas , Gasser Thomas
Published: October 2005

Multiple mutations in the gene for the leucine‐rich repeat kinase (LRRK2) cause autosomal dominant late‐onset parkinsonism (PARK8). The Gly2019Ser mutation appears to be common in different populations. To investigate whether this novel gene influences the non‐Mendelian sporadic form of Parkinson's disease, we genotyped 121 single nucleotide polymorphisms comprehensively covering the entire LRRK2 gene region in a set of 340 Parkinson's disease patients and 680 matched control subjects from Germany. No association could be demonstrated. We have therefore no evidence for the existence of a common variant in LRRK2 that has a strong influence on Parkinson's disease risk. Ann Neurol 2005
Is radiation synovectomy for arthritis of the knee more effective than intraarticular treatment with glucocorticoids? Results of an eighteen‐month, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover trial
Authors: Jahangier Zalima N. , Jacobs Johannes W. G. , Lafeber Floris P. J. G. , Moolenburgh Jan D. , Swen Wijnand A. A. , Bruyn George A. W. , Griep Ed N. , ter Borg Evert‐J. , Bijlsma Johannes W. J.
Published: October 2005

Objective

To compare the clinical efficacy and safety of radiation synovectomy (RSO) with intraarticular (IA) yttrium‐90 plus glucocorticoids (GCs) with the efficacy and safety of IA placebo yttrium plus GCs and to identify parameters that predict efficacy.

Methods

The knees of 97 patients with persistent arthritis despite outpatient treatment with IA GCs (n = 113 knees), were treated with either IA 90Y plus GCs (50%) or IA placebo yttrium plus GCs (50%), followed by 3 days of bed rest in the hospital clinic, with splinting of the treated knee. Predominant diagnoses were undifferentiated arthritis (39%) and rheumatoid arthritis (32%). The clinical effect of therapy was assessed at 6 months using a composite change index (CCI; range 0–12). The primary outcome measure was the response rate (i.e., the percentage of joints with a CCI ≥6). Knees with persistent arthritis after 6 months underwent crossover therapy (51% of the 90Y plus GCs group versus 45% of the placebo plus GCs group). Adverse effects and radiologic damage during followup were documented.

Results

Neither the response rate (48% in both groups), the mean CCI, nor the duration of remission was significantly different between groups. No clinically relevant short‐term adverse effects were observed, except for progression of radiologic damage in 34% of the 90Y plus GCs group versus 28% of the placebo plus GCs group (knee prosthesis placement in 8% versus 1%). The functional and radiologic status at study entry predicted the clinical effect.

Conclusion

Treatment with 90Y plus GCs with bed rest and splinting is not superior to IA GCs with bed rest and splinting. Over the short term, both treatments appeared to be safe, although a negative effect of 90Y on cartilage and bone cannot be ruled out. Thus, it appears that RSO with 90Y should no longer be considered the treatment of first choice for persistent arthritis of the knee.
Infections in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with biologic agents
Authors: Listing Joachim , Strangfeld Anja , Kary Sonja , Rau Rolf , von Hinueber Ulrich , Stoyanova‐Scholz Maria , Gromnica‐Ihle Erika , Antoni Christian , Herzer Peter , Kekow Jörn , Schneider Matthias , Zink Angela
Published: October 2005

Objective

To estimate the incidence rates of serious and nonserious infections in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who start treatment with a biologic agent, and to compare these rates with those in patients with RA who receive conventional treatment.

Methods

Patients enrolled in the German biologics register between May 2001 and September 2003 were included. Treating rheumatologists assessed adverse events and serious adverse events. All adverse events and serious adverse events experienced within 12 months after study entry were analyzed. Propensity score methods were applied to estimate which part of a rate increase was likely to be attributable to differences in patient characteristics.

Results

Data were available for 512 patients receiving etanercept, 346 patients receiving infliximab, 70 patients receiving anakinra, and 601 control patients treated with disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs. The total number of adverse events per 100 patient‐years was 22.6 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 18.7–27.2) among patients receiving etanercept, 28.3 (95% CI 23.1–34.7) among patients receiving infliximab, and 6.8 (95% CI 5.0–9.4) among controls (P< 0.0001). Significant differences in the rate of serious adverse events were also observed. For patients receiving etanercept, those receiving infliximab, and controls, the total numbers of serious adverse events per 100 patient‐years were 6.4 (95% CI 4.5–9.1), 6.2 (95% CI 4.0–9.5), and 2.3 (95% CI 1.3–3.9), respectively (P= 0.0016). After adjusting for differences in the case patient mix, the relative risks of serious adverse events were 2.2 (95% CI 0.9–5.4) for patients receiving etanercept and 2.1 (95% CI 0.8–5.5) for patients receiving infliximab, compared with controls.

Conclusion

Patients treated with biologic agents have a higher a priori risk of infection. However, our data suggest that this risk is increased by treatment with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors.
Wnt‐1–inducible signaling pathway protein 3 and susceptibility to juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Lamb Rebecca , Thomson Wendy , Ogilvie Emma ,   the British Society of Paediatric and Adolescent Rheumatology, Donn Rachelle
Published: October 2005

Objective

To determine whether Wnt‐1–inducible signaling pathway protein 3 (WISP3) polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods

The exons and the intron/exon boundaries of the WISP3 gene were mutation‐screened by denaturing high‐performance liquid chromatography in 86 patients with polyarticular‐course JIA (≥5 joints affected) and 15 controls. Seven single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped, using allelic discrimination, in a case–control study. Initially, 159 patients with polyarticular‐course JIA and 263 controls were studied, followed by study of a replication cohort of 181 patients with polyarticular‐course JIA and 355 controls. Available parents of patients with polyarticular‐course JIA were also genotyped. Finally, other JIA subgroups were studied (initial cohort, n = 218; replication cohort, n = 213). Single‐point and haplotype analysis was carried out.

Results

Positive association with SNP WISP3*G84A was observed and replicated in 2 cohorts of patients with polyarticular‐course JIA. Specifically, homozygosity of the mutant allele (WISP3*84AA) conferred a 2‐fold increased risk of disease susceptibility (for the initial cohort, odds ratio [OR] 2.1, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.1–4.2, P = 0.03; for the replication cohort, OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.0–4.3, P = 0.05). Strong linkage disequilibrium was observed between SNPs; however, no haplotypic effect of an order of magnitude greater than the single‐point WISP3*G84A association was observed. Using the transmission disequilibrium test, a trend toward overtransmission of the WISP3*84A allele was observed in patients with polyarticular‐course JIA. No association of any WISP3 polymorphism was observed in the other JIA subgroups.

Conclusion

Association and replication of a polymorphism within the first intron of the WISP3 gene have been shown in patients with polyarticular‐course JIA. The functional significance of the WISP3*G84A SNP is being determined.
Association between quality of life scores and short-term outcome after surgery for cancer of the oesophagus or gastric cardia
Authors: Blazeby J M , Metcalfe C , Nicklin J , Barham C P , Donovan J , Alderson D
Published: October 2005

Background

Evidence suggests that baseline quality of life (QOL) scores are independently prognostic for survival in patients with cancer, but the role of QOL data in predicting short-term outcome after surgery is uncertain. This study assessed the association between QOL scores and short-term outcomes after surgery for oesophageal and gastric cancer.

Methods

Consecutive patients selected for oesophagectomy or total gastrectomy between November 2000 and May 2003 completed the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer's quality of life questionnaire, QLQ-C30. Multivariable regression models, adjusting for known clinical risk factors, were used to investigate relationships between QOL scores, major morbidity, hospital stay and survival status at 6 months.

Results

Of 130 patients, 121 completed the questionnaire (response rate 93·1 per cent). There were 29 major complications (24·0 per cent) and 22 patients (18·2 per cent) died within 6 months of operation. QOL scores were not associated with major morbidity but were significantly related to survival status at 6 months after adjusting for known clinical risk factors. A worse fatigue score of 10 points (scale 0–100) corresponded to an increase in the odds of death within 6 months of surgery of 37·4 (95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 12·4 to 67·8) per cent (P = 0·002). Pretreatment social function scores were moderately associated with hospital stay (P = 0·021); a reduction in social function by 10 points corresponded to an increase in hospital stay of 0·93 (95 per cent c.i. 0·12 to 1·74) days.

Conclusion

QOL scores supplement standard staging procedures for oesophageal and gastric cancer by providing prognostic information, but they do not contribute to perioperative risk assessment.
Long-term results in patients with T2–3 N0 distal rectal cancer undergoing radiotherapy before transanal endoscopic microsurgery
Authors: Lezoche E , Guerrieri M , Paganini A M , Baldarelli M , De Sanctis A , Lezoche G
Published: October 2005

Background

Local excision after radiotherapy for node-negative low rectal cancer may be an alternative to radical excision. This study evaluated the results of local excision in patients with small (less than 3 cm in diameter) T2 and T3 distal rectal tumours following neoadjuvant therapy.

Methods

One hundred patients with rectal cancer (54 uT2 and 46 uT3 uN0 tumours) were enrolled. All patients underwent preoperative radiotherapy followed by local excision by means of transanal endoscopic microsurgery.

Results

Definitive histological examination revealed nine pT1, 54 pT2 and 19 pT3 tumours. A complete response (R0) or microscopic residual tumour (R1mic) was found in three and 15 patients respectively. Minor complications occurred in 11 patients and major complications in two. At a median follow-up of 55 (range 7–120) months, the local failure rate was 5 per cent and metastatic disease was found in two patients. The cancer-specific survival rate at 90 months' follow-up was 89 per cent, and the overall survival rate 72 per cent. Salvage abdominoperineal resection was performed in three patients, two of whom were disease free at 15 and 19 months.

Conclusion

Treatment of small uT2 and uT3 uN0 rectal cancers with preoperative high-dose radiotherapy followed by transanal endoscopic microsurgery is an acceptable alternative to conventional radical resection.
Systematic review of randomized trials comparing rubber band ligation with excisional haemorrhoidectomy
Authors: Shanmugam V , Thaha M A , Rabindranath K S , Campbell K L , Steele R J C , Loudon M A
Published: October 2005

Background and method

This review compares the two most popular treatments for haemorrhoids, namely rubber band ligation (RBL) and excisional haemorrhoidectomy. Randomized trials were identified from the major electronic databases. Symptom control, retreatment, postoperative pain, complications, time off work and patient satisfaction were assessed. Relative risk (RR) and weighted mean difference with 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) were estimated using a random-effects model for dichotomous and continuous outcomes respectively.

Results

Three trials met the inclusion criteria and all were of poor methodological quality. Complete remission of haemorrhoidal symptoms was better after haemorrhoidectomy (RR 1·68 (95 per cent c.i 1·00 to 2·83)). There was significant heterogeneity between the studies (I2 = 90·5 per cent; P < 0·001). Fewer patients required retreatment after haemorrhoidectomy (RR 0·20 (95 per cent c.i 0·09 to 0·40)), but anal stenosis, postoperative haemorrhage and incontinence to flatus were more common with this operation.

Conclusions

Haemorrhoidectomy produced better long-term symptom control in patients with grade III haemorrhoids, but was associated with more postoperative complications than RBL.
The psychic life of colonial power: racialised subjectivities, bodies and methods
Authors: Riggs Damien W. , Augoustinos Martha
Published: October 2005

Ongoing histories of racism in colonial nations such as Australia challenge us as academics to consider how we understand racism and its role in practices of both privilege and oppression. In this article we as two non‐indigenous people living in Australia attempt to work through issues of collective responsibility by focusing on what we believe are three key issues in the study of racism: 1) methodology and researcher subjectivity, 2) subjectification as a practice of racialisation and 3) racialised embodiment and its relation to power. In exploring these three issues we utilise theoretical interpretations of subjectivity and embodiment alongside a brief examination of a speech by Prime Minister Howard in order to elaborate our claim that racism is foundational to white subjectivities in Australia. By examining colonial violence and our relation to it, we seek to develop a framework within which psychological research on racism in Australia may disturb white claims to belonging by continuing to explore how racism works in the service of the ‘good nation’. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Studying talk and embodied practices: toward a psychology of materiality of ‘race relations’
Authors: Durrheim Kevin , Dixon John
Published: October 2005

This article argues that an adequate social psychology of racism needs to take seriously people's lived experiences of ‘race relations’. This involves an empirical focus on social life in ordinary contexts in which everyday practices are structured around ‘race’. In particular, we argue that such a social psychology of racism needs to understand the articulation of two related domains of practices—embodied spatio‐temporal practices and linguistic practices (talk)—that together constitute the reality of ‘race relations’ in specific, concrete contexts. By discussing a case study of practices that constitute ‘desegregation’ on a post‐apartheid beach, we show that this focus (1) allows a fuller appreciation of the nature and construction of ‘race relations’, (2) helps us to understand why ‘race relations’ are so resistant to change and (3) provides a historical and materialist account of the nature of ‘race groups’. We argue that (what we term) the ‘impoverished realism’ of traditional attitude research and the ‘selective anti‐realism’ of discursive social psychology both limit an appreciation of lived experience as a focus of study. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Against the notion of a ‘new racism’
Authors: Leach Colin Wayne
Published: October 2005

Despite the de jure equality achieved in the second half of the 20th century, racial discrimination and racist political movements persist. This has encouraged the orthodoxy that a ‘new racism’ serves as an ideological basis of contemporary white investment in racial inequality in Western Europe, North America and Australasia. It is argued that this ‘new racism’ is shown in more subtle and indirect formal expressions, such as a denial of societal discrimination, rather than the once popular expressions of ‘old‐fashioned’ genetic inferiority and segregationism. In opposition to this conceptualization, I review quantitative and qualitative studies from social psychology, sociology and political science, as well as historical analyses, to show that the ‘old‐fashioned’ formal expression of racism was not especially popular before de jure racial equality and is not especially unpopular now. I also show that there is nothing new about formal expressions that criticize cultural difference or deny societal discrimination. Thus, there is greater historical continuity in racism than the notion of a ‘new racism’ allows. This suggests that the first task of a critical social psychology of racism is a proper conceptualization of racism itself. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Future directions for a critical social psychology of racism/antiracism
Authors: Hook Derek , Howarth Caroline
Published: October 2005

A variety of possible future directions for a critical psychology of racism/antiracism may assist us in avoiding the trappings of conceptual/methodological homogeneity and disciplinary insularity. Greater reference to the literature of fiction, to the epistemological domain of the aesthetic, may benefit us given that it permits different positionings, imaginings and modes of self‐reflection than afforded within the strict truth‐conditions of mainstream social science practice. We stand also to profit from greater attention to personal experience and to the embodied materiality of everyday life, powerful themes in the oft‐neglected Black Consciousness tradition of critique. Likewise, a renewed focus on subjectification. This is particularly pressing for critical social psychology given that certain of the formative conditions of the subject subjectivity may be taken to predate psychological subjectivity; without an adequate engagement with such factors (sociality, materiality, the bodily, the historical) we fail to apprehend the psychic life of power. Lastly, an innovative and critically effective social psychology of racism/antiracism cannot neglect the collaborative opportunities afforded by cultural studies, postcolonial criticism and contemporary social theory. The concepts of performativity, hybridity, mimicry and habitus (to name just a few), like a series of recent discussions of post‐imperial multiculturalism and cosmopolitan humanism, deserve to be better integrated into the work of critical social psychologists. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.