bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Moderators of Genetic Influences on Adolescent Delinquent Involvement and Victimization
Authors: Beaver Kevin M.
Published: November 2010

A growing body of empirical research reveals that genetic factors account for a substantial amount of variance in measures of antisocial behaviors. At the same time, evidence is also emerging indicating that certain environmental factors moderate the effects that genetic factors have on antisocial outcomes. Despite this line of research, much remains unknown about the specific environments that may moderate genetic influences on adolescent delinquent involvement and victimization. The current study addresses this gap in the literature by examining whether 13 criminogenic environments alter the extent to which genes influence delinquency and victimization. Analysis of sibling pairs drawn from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health revealed significant environmental moderation of genetic influences on measures tapping serious delinquency, violent delinquency, and personal victimization. In general, greater exposure to criminogenic risk factors increases the effects that genetic factors have on these three antisocial outcomes. The implications that these findings have for criminological theory and research are discussed.
Review Article: Terminal Delirium in Geriatric Patients With Cancer at End of Life
Authors: Moyer Deborah D.
Published: November 2010

Terminal delirium is a common symptom that is frequently underdiagnosed in geriatric patients with cancer at end of life and is a major cause of distress for the patient as well as their family. This article explores the hyperactive and hypoactive delirium subtypes as well as the pathophysiology of terminal delirium and the theory of acetylcholine deficiency and dopamine excess. The causes for terminal delirium underdiagnosis as well as the causes of terminal delirium itself are identified. The use of the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) is discussed as a means of delirium diagnosis and the Memorial Delirium Assessment scale (MDAS) is presented as a tool to measure its severity. Lastly, nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic treatment measures are reviewed and an algorithm is presented to assist the clinician in the identification and management of terminal delirium.
Exploring the Relationship Between the Frequency of Documented Bowel Movements and Prescribed Laxatives in Hospitalized Palliative Care Patients
Authors: Clark Katherine , Lam Lawrence , Currow David
Published: November 2010

Retrospective analysis of 211 admissions to a palliative care unit was undertaken to explore the relationship between prescribed laxatives and the frequency of documentation of bowel movements. Bivariate analysis flailed to identify relationships between laxatives and the frequency of bowel movements. Relationships were identified between less frequent bowel movements and type and duration of illness phase. Regression analysis identified 2 variables strongly predictive of the frequency with which bowel movements were documented. People in longer illness phases were more likely to have regular bowel movements (Z = 3.02, P = .003). The second significant result was that, even accounting for the short duration of the terminal phase, people who were dying were 13 times less likely to have any bowel movements documented than those in the stable phase (OR = 13.2, 95%CI = 2.0-89.2). The lack of relationship between laxatives and documentation of bowel movements suggests alternative approaches to understanding and managing the symptom of constipation in palliative care are necessary.
The Frequency and Correlates of Spiritual Distress Among Patients With Advanced Cancer Admitted to an Acute Palliative Care Unit
Authors: Hui David , de la Cruz Maxine , Thorney Steve , Parsons Henrique A. , Delgado-Guay Marvin , Bruera Eduardo
Published: November 2010

Limited research is available on the frequency of spiritual distress and its relationship with physical and emotional distress. We reviewed patients admitted to our acute palliative care unit (APCU) and determined the association between patient characteristics, symptom severity using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment scale (ESAS), and spiritual distress as reported by a chaplain on initial visit. In all, 50 (44%) of 113 patients had spiritual distress. In univariate analysis, patients with spiritual distress were more likely to be younger (odds ratio [OR] = 0.96, P = .004), to have pain (OR = 1.2, P = .010) and depression (OR = 1.24, P = .018) compared to those without spiritual distress. Spiritual distress was associated with age (OR = 0.96, P = .012) and depression (OR = 1.27, P = .020) in multivariate analysis. Our findings support regular spiritual assessment as part of the interdisciplinary approach to optimize symptom control.
Early clinical experience with volumetric modulated arc therapy in head and neck cancer patients
Authors: Scorsetti Marta , Fogliata Antonella , Castiglioni Simona , Bressi Caterina , Bignardi Mario , Navarria Piera , Mancosu Pietro , Cozzi Luca , Pentimalli Sara , Alongi Filippo , Santoro Armando
Published: November 2010

Background

To report about early clinical experience in radiation treatment of head and neck cancer of different sites and histology by volumetric modulated arcs with the RapidArc technology.

Methods

During 2009, 45 patients were treated at Istituto Clinico Humanitas with RapidArc (28 males and 17 females, median age 65 years). Of these, 78% received concomitant chemotherapy. Thirty-six patients were treated as exclusive curative intent (group A), three as postoperative curative intent (group B) and six with sinonasal tumours (group C). Dose prescription was at Planning Target Volumes (PTV) with simultaneous integrated boost: 54.45Gy and 69.96Gy in 33 fractions (group A); 54.45Gy and 66Gy in 33 fractions (group B) and 55Gy in 25 fractions (group C).

Results

Concerning planning optimization strategies and constraints, as per PTV coverage, for all groups, D98% > 95% and V95% > 99%. As regards organs at risk, all planning objectives were respected, and this was correlated with observed acute toxicity rates. Only 28% of patients experienced G3 mucositis, 14% G3 dermitis 44% had G2 dysphagia. Nobody required feeding tubes to be placed during treatment. Acute toxicity is also related to chemotherapy. Two patients interrupted the course of radiotherapy because of a quick worsening of general clinical condition.

Conclusions

These preliminary results stated that volumetric modulated arc therapy in locally advanced head and neck cancers is feasible and effective, with acceptable toxicities.
Simultaneous Sinus Membrane Elevation and Dental Implant Placement Without Bone Graft: A 6‐Month Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Borges Fabio L. , Dias Rafael O. , Piattelli Adriano , Onuma Tatiana , Gouveia Cardoso Luciana Ap. , Salomão Munir , Scarano Antonio , Ayub Eduardo , Shibli Jamil Awad
Published: November 2010

Background: Previous studies have shown that simultaneous elevation of the sinus mucosal lining and placement of dental implants without graft materials can be a predictable procedure. Nevertheless, few prospective, controlled, and randomized studies have evaluated this technique. The aim of this prospective, controlled, and randomized clinical study is to evaluate whether sinus membrane elevation and simultaneous placement of dental implants without autogenous bone graft can create sufficient bone support to allow implant success 6 months post‐surgically.

Methods: Sinus membrane elevation and simultaneous placement of dental implants were performed bilaterally in 15 patients in a split‐mouth design. The sinuses were assigned to two groups: the test group, with simultaneous sinus mucosal lining elevation and placement of dental implants without graft materials; and the control group, with simultaneous sinus mucosal lining elevation and placement of dental implants with intraoral autogenous bone graft. After 6 months of healing, abutments were connected. For each implant, length of implant protrusion into the sinus, resonance frequency analysis, and bone gain were recorded at baseline and 6 months follow‐up.

Results: Clinical complications were not observed, except for two postoperative fistulas and suppuration in both groups. Only one implant of the test group was lost, reaching a success rate of 96.4% and 100% for the test and control groups, respectively. After healing, radiographic new peri‐implant bone was observed in both groups ranging between 8.3 ± 2.6 and 7.9 ± 3.6 mm for the control and test groups, respectively (P >0.05). Resonance frequency analysis values were lower for the control group compared to baseline (P <0.05). However, these values were similar at 6 months (P >0.05). A significant positive correlation was found between the protruded implant length/bone gain and implant survival/sinusitis (P <0.0001).

Conclusion: Implants placed simultaneously to sinus membrane elevation without graft material resulted in bone formation over a period of 6 months.
Periodontal Tissue Engineering After Tooth Replantation
Authors: Reichert da Silva Assunção Luciana , Colenci Renato , Ferreira do‐Amaral Caril Constante , Sonoda Celso Koogi , Mogami Bomfim Suely Regina , Okamoto Roberta , de Assis Golim Marjorie , Deffune Elenice , Percinoto Célio , Penha de Oliveira Sandra Helena
Published: November 2010

Background: Blood‐derived products, platelet‐poor plasma (PPP) and platelet‐rich plasma (PRP), constitute an approach in the enhancement of tissue healing. PRP has also been used as a scaffold for bone marrow stem cells in tissue engineering. This study evaluates the effect of PPP, calcium chloride–activated PRP (PRP/Ca), calcium chloride– and thrombin‐activated PRP (PRP/Thr/Ca), and bone marrow mononuclear cells and PRP/Ca (BMMCs/PRP/Ca) on the healing of replanted dog teeth.

Methods: After 30 minutes of extraction, teeth were replanted with 1) no material (control); 2) PPP; 3) PRP/Ca; 4) PRP/Thr/Ca; or 5) BMMCs/PRP/Ca. Histologic, histomorphometric, and immunohistochemical analysis was assessed 120 days after replantation. Data from histomorphometric analysis were analyzed statistically (analysis of variance, Tukey; P <0.05). Quantitative immunohistochemical analysis was analyzed by Kruskal‐Wallis and Dunn post hoc test (P <0.05).

Results: Flow cytometry analysis showed 55.98% of CD34+ and 32.67% of CD90/Thy‐1 for BMMCs sample. BMMCs/PRP/Ca presented the largest areas of replacement resorption characterized by osseous ingrowth into cementum (P <0.05), with intense immunomarcation for tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase. The PRP/Ca group also showed areas of replacement resorption with significant immunomarcation for osteopontin. PRP/Thr/Ca presented no replacement resorption. PPP showed areas of inflammatory resorption, with immunomarcation for tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase.

Conclusions: The results suggest that platelets activated with thrombin play an important role in the healing of tissues after tooth replantation. Additional studies are necessary to test other materials, because PRP/Ca did not present an appropriate scaffold for undifferentiated cells in the treatment of avulsed teeth.
Past and future of multiculturalism in Southeast Europe
Authors: Stankovic-Pejnovic Vesna
Published: November 2010

Multiculturalism is a logical extension of the politics of equal respect and
the politics of recognition but it is not an inheritance of modern liberal
state. In the area of Southeast Europe multiculturalism is known through
centuries. By the collapse of Yugoslavia, new countries prioritized the
strengthening the central state and creation one nation state, deleted
memory of multiculturalism of past. When 1993 European Union, through
Copenhagen criterion, stipulates condition for accession (respect and
protection national minorities), countries of Southeast Europe faced with
the implementation of multicultural standards based on assumption that
policy of recognition and promotion ethno-cultural diversity can enlarge
human freedom, strengthen human rights and democracy. Unlike west federal
models, cultural autonomy exclude territorial autonomy, but include
institutional autonomy, local government and right to use mother tongue.
Models of the multicultural policy are numerous and dependable on political,
social and cultural circumstances, but countries of Southeast Europe must
accept multicultural future.
Building institutional framework for sustainable development in Montenegro
Authors: Vukovic Bosiljka , Perovic Ljubisa
Published: November 2010

There are many proofs confirming the importance of sustainable development
for Montenegro. Shared international challenges, global economic crisis, and,
particularly, the country?s natural characteristics emphasize that
sustainable development is the only way ahead. In 2002 Montenegro formed the
National Council for Sustainable Development; in 2005 the Office for
Sustainable Development was established, and the National Strategy of
Sustainable Development was adopted in 2007. With these developments,
Montenegro created the most advanced institutional basis for sustainable
development in its region. After carefully observing the functioning of
national sustainable development institutions, however, the Office for
Sustainable Development embarked upon the process of their reform in 2008. As
a result, the Council was fundamentally reformed, having its membership
downsized and composition transformed. Two Annual Reports on the
Implementation of the Sustainable Development Strategy have been completed
and the process of defining sustainable development indicators commenced in
co-operation with the United Nations. This paper critically examines the
evolution of the set-up of the Montenegrin sustainable development system,
presents the advantages and disadvantages of the government-anchored Council.
Based on the lessons learnt, it presents recommendations for policy makers on
promoting and enforcing sustainable development. The paper argues that only
by effectively co-ordinating all segments of society and ensuring genuine
participation of outside-government stakeholders, the countries can ensure
that sustainable development principles are incorporated in national and
local policies. The independence and pro-activeness in approach of
sustainable development institutions is essential in ensuring the supremacy
of sustainable practices in decision-making. Considering the similarities in
historic, economic and social developments of the former socialist countries,
the recommendations put forward by this paper could be of particularly
relevance for the countries of Southeast, Central, and Eastern Europe. The
findings of this paper could also contribute to the wider debate on
sustainable development institutional models.
Modelling CO2 emissions impacts on Croatian power system
Authors: Pasicko Robert , Robic Slavica , Tomsic Zeljko
Published: November 2010

Today?s electrical energy landscape is characterized by new challenges such
as deregulation, liberalization of energy markets, increased competition,
growing demands on security of supply, price insecurities, and demand to cut
CO2 emissions. All mentioned challenges are calling for consideration of
various options (like nuclear, coal, gas or renewable scenarios) and for
better understanding of energy systems modelling in order to optimize proper
energy mix. Existing models are not sufficient any more and planners will
need to think differently in order to face these challenges. European
emission trading scheme (EU ETS) started in 2005 and it has great influence
on power system short term and long term planning. Croatia is obliged to
establish a national scheme for trading of greenhouse gas emission allowances
from the year 2010, which will be focused on monitoring and reporting only
until accession to EU when it will be linked with EU ETS. Thus, for Croatian
power system it is very important to analyze possible impacts of CO2
emissions. Analysis presented in this paper was done by two different models:
mathematical model, based on short run marginal costs (SRMC, relevant for
fuel switch in existing power plant and merit order change) and long run
marginal costs (LRMC, relevant for new investment decisions); and electricity
market simulation model PLEXOS, which was used for modelling Croatian power
system during development of the Croatian energy strategy in 2008. Results of
the analysis show important impacts that emission trading has on Croatian
power system, such as influence of emission price rise on price of
electricity and on emission quantity, and changes in power plants output that
appear with emission price rise. Breakeven point after which gas power plant
becomes more competitive than coal is 62 ?/tCO2 for SRMC and 40 ?/tCO2 for
LRMC. With CO2 prices above 31 ?/tCO2 wind is more competitive than gas or
coal, which emphasizes importance that emission price has on competitiveness
of renewables.
An investigation into the effect of photovoltaic module electric properties on maximum power point trajectory with the aim of its alignment with electrolyzer U-I characteristic
Authors: Firak Mihajlo , Djukic Ankica
Published: November 2010

In order to combine a photovoltaic module and an electrolyzer to produce
hydrogen from water, an intermediate DC/DC converter can be used to adapt
output power features of the module to input power features of the
electrolyzer. This can also be done without using electronics, which results
in saving as much as 700 USD/kW, as previous investigation has shown. A more
sophisticated investigation should be carried out with the aim of improving
high system efficiency, resulting in matching the photovoltaic module maximum
power point trajectory (the maximum power point path in the U-I plane as a
result of solar irradiance change) to the operating characteristic of the
electrolyzer. This paper presents an analysis of the influences of
photovoltaic module electric properties, such as series and parallel
resistance and non-ideality factor, on the maximum power point trajectory at
different levels of solar irradiance. The possibility of various inclinations
(right - vertical - left) in relation to an arbitrary chosen operating
characteristic of the electrolyzer is also demonstrated. Simulated results
are obtained by using Matlab/Simulink simulations of the well known one-diode
model. Simulations have been confirmed with experiments on a real
photovoltaic module where solar irradiance, solar cell temperature, electric
current, and voltage in the circuit with variable ohmic resistance have been
measured.
Pyrolysis and gasification of municipal and industrial wastes blends
Authors: Paolucci Martino , de Filippis , Borgianni Carlo
Published: November 2010

Gasification could play an important role in the treatment of municipal solid
wastes. However, some problems may arise when using unsorted materials due to
the difficulties of obtaining a feed with consistent physical characteristics
and chemical properties. To overcome this problem, a new type of gasifier
consisting of three stages, namely a pyrolytic stage followed by gasification
and a reforming stage, was considered. Theoretical calculations made on the
proposed gasification scheme shows better performance than a previously
studied two-stage gasifier because of its ability of reaching the same final
temperature of the syngas with a lower oxygen injection and a better oxygen
partition ratio between the stages. The reduced amount of oxygen allows to
obtain an improved syngas quality with higher return in the final products,
such as hydrogen, electricity and so on.
Waldbrandmodellierung - Möglichkeiten und Grenzen | Forest fire modeling - limits and possibilities
Authors: Weibel Patrick , Elkin Ché , Reineking Björn , Conedera Marco , Bugmann Harald
Published: November 2010

Models make it possible to investigate the factors which influence forest fires and to measure their importance. Using various forest fire models, the works presented here examine the influence of weather, forest composition, human activity and changes in legislation on the likelihood of forest fire ignitions in Ticino and Valais. A distinction was made between forest fires started by flash of lightning, and those resulting from human activity. The results show that the weather has the greatest influence where lightning starts, whereas in fires caused by people, the weather takes a subordinate place to human activities. Depending on the ignition causes, different weather indices best represent the danger of forest fires: for those caused by lightning, the Duff Moisture Code (DMC) drought index, and for those started by human activity, the Angstrom Index. In order to test the general validity of forest fire ignition models these were applied to Ticino and to Valais over two different periods of time. Results show that transferability of the models is limited, and that their use for the assessment of the future risk of forest fire is difficult under changing climatic conditions. The landscape model LandClim was used in order to simulate the observed patterns of fire frequency and size in Ticino and in Valais. Thanks to further development of the forest fire module, LandClim achieved a marked improvement of modelquality. Such dynamic landscape models should have an important role to play in assessing future forest fire regimes.
Swissfire: die neue schweizerische Waldbranddatenbank | Swissfire: the new Swiss forest fire database
Authors: Pezzatti Gianni Boris , Reinhard Michael , Conedera Marco
Published: November 2010

Fire is a spatially heterogeneous and irregularly occurring phenomenon. Forest fire statistics extending over decades are needed in order to describe comprehensively the fire regime in a given region, to improve preventive measures and to optimize fire-fighting strategies. On commission by the Federal Office for the Environment the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL developed in 2008 the forest fire database Swissfire for the whole of Switzerland. The purpose of Swissfire is to register systematically, centrally and without gaps all data concerning forest fires in Switzerland, according to a standardized protocol. Information on fire outbreaks is organized in various tables reporting fire-specific parameters and other relevant environmental, socio-economical and organizational characteristics. This database makes it possible for the 26 cantonal forest services to register and manage forest fire data online, and also to produce forest fire statistics and printable charts. Such a comprehensive forest fire database represents a great potential for future research on forest fires in Switzerland.
Record Linkage for nineteenth-century census returns: automatic or computer-aided?
Authors: Tilley Peter , French Christopher
Published: November 2010

Should record linkage for nineteenth century census records be based on multiple pass algorithms using list unique records or are there more effective ways of establishing true matches? This paper considers both multiple pass algorithms and some alternatives, and finds that the alternatives can indeed be more effective.
The classification of occupations in the 1881 census of England and Wales
Authors: Woollard Matthew
Published: November 2010

This article discusses the importance of classifying occupations both to the original collectors of the occupational data contained within the late-nineteenth century censuses and to present-day historians with particular reference to the 1881 censuses of England and Wales. It describes the method by which occupational data was collected and prepared for classifiation in 1881. It shows that the classifications of occupations in the 1881 were remarkably similar to a present-day recoding exercise and concludes that the rules laid down by the Census Office in 1881 for the tabulation of occupations were acted on as well as possible by the contemporary clerks. The final section demonstrates these results and explains why differences might have occurred.
Retrospective web-based multicenter evaluation of 18F-FDG-PET and CT derived predictive factors
Authors: Nestle U. , Scheidhauer K. , Puskas C. , Ballek E. , Hohloch K. , Schubert J. , König J. , Pinkert J. , Truemper L. , Hellwig D. , Kirsch C.-M. , Grgic A.
Published: November 2010

Aim: Although predictive factors (PF) for conventional lymphoma therapy are established and frequently used in clinical practice and medical research, the PF for radioimmunotherapy (RIT) have not been fully defined until now. The aim of this multicenter evaluation is to prove the feasibility of the multicenter web-based data collection and to preliminary explore imaging findings and prediction of therapy response in patients with follicular lymphoma (FL) following radioimmuno therapy (RIT) with 90Y-ibritumomab tiuxetan. Patients, methods: We retrospectively analyzed and correlated clinical and imaging data (CT and FDG-PET) before and after RIT as documented by the RIT-Network. Evaluation of treatment response was done on both patient and lesion basis. Every measurable lesion was analyzed in terms of standardized uptake value (SUV), volume (CT and PET) and response. PF were identified using a uni- and multivariate model. A web-based system was used for the documentation and evaluation of clinical and imaging data. Results: 16 patients with at least one PET before and after RIT were eligible for analysis. Concerning response three months postRIT, 5 patients achieved a CR, 6 patients a PR and 4 patients remained with NC. A total of 159 lesions were measured (mean 10 ± 8). In the multivariate model the log lesion volume (p < 0.0001), the total (p = 0.03) and maximum lesion volume (p = 0.05) were predictors for response (CR + PR). Concerning the lesional CR initial small lesion volume (p = 0.009) and its high metabolic activity (p = 0.01) were identified as predictors. The web-based system showed no major disturbances allowing secure data transfer and central image interpretation in a reasonable time. Conclusion: The use of a web-based multicenter archiving system for clinical and imaging data is technically feasible in a multicenter setting and allows a central analysis. This preliminary analysis suggests that FDG-PET may predict the likelihood of response to RIT.
Ventilations-Perfusions-Lungen -szintigraphie mit der PET und 68Ga-markierten Radiopharmaka
Authors: Andreeff M. , Wunderlich G. , Wiggermann P. , Zöphel K. , Kotzerke J.
Published: November 2010

Aim: Imaging of lung perfusion with positron emission tomography (PET) is already possible with 68Ga labeled denaturized albumin. The purpose of our study was to produce and test a 68Ga labeled aerosol (Galligas®) for ventilation and 68Ga labeled albumin particles (microspheres) for perfusion imaging with PET. Patients, methods: Galligas was produced by simmering and burning generator eluted 68Ga solution (100 MBq/0.1 ml) in an ordinary technegas generator. Fifteen patients with suspicion on pulmonary embolism underwent PET/CT (Biograph 16) after inhalation of Galligas and application of 68Ga labeled microspheres. A low dose CT was acquired for attenuation correction (AC). Images were reconstructed with and without AC. The inhaled activity was calculated compared to the activity injected. Results: Inhaled radioaerosol Galli gas demonstrated typical distribution as known from 99mTc-labeled technegas with homogeneous distribution in lung without hilar deposits. Attenuation corrected images resulted in artefacts in the lung base. Therefore, non-corrected images were used for making the results. Three out of fifteen patients showed a deficient perfusion whereas ventilation was normal corresponding to pulmonary embolism. Conclusion: Lung scintigraphy with PET is feasible. Galligas is simple to produce (analogously to technegas). 68Ga labeled microspheres are available. The method is applicable to daily routine and rendered clinically relevant informations.
Nanoparticulate Delivery Systems for Antiviral Drugs
Authors: Lembo David , Cavalli Roberta
Published: November 2010

Nanomedicine opens new therapeutic avenues for attacking viral diseases and for improving treatment success rates. Nanoparticulate-based systems might change the release kinetics of antivirals, increase their bioavailability, improve their efficacy, restrict adverse drug side effects and reduce treatment costs. Moreover, they could permit the delivery of antiviral drugs to specific target sites and viral reservoirs in the body. These features are particularly relevant in viral diseases where high drug doses are needed, drugs are expensive and the success of a therapy is associated with a patient's adherence to the administration protocol.

This review presents the current status in the emerging area of nanoparticulate delivery systems in antiviral therapy, providing their definition and description, and highlighting some peculiar features. The paper closes with a discussion on the future challenges that must be addressed before the potential of nanotechnology can be translated into safe and effective antiviral formulations for clinical use.
Osteoporosis among Fallers without Concomitant Fracture Identified in an Emergency Department: Frequencies and Risk Factors
Authors: Glintborg Bente , Hesse Ulrik , Houe Thomas , Claus Munk Jensen , Pødenphant Jan , Zerahn Bo
Published: November 2010

We aimed to determine whether the Emergency Department (ED) is a suitable entrance point for osteoporosis screening among fallers without concomitant fracture compared to referral from general practice. Furthermore, to identify factors associated with osteoporosis among fallers.Methods. Patients aged 50–80 years sustaining a low-energy fall without fracture were identified from an ED (n=199). Patients answered a questionnaire on risk factors and underwent osteodensitometry. Data was compared to a group of patients routinely referred to osteodensitometry from general practice (n=201).Results. Among the 199 included fallers, 41 (21%) had osteoporosis. Among these, 35 (85%) reported either previous fracture or reduced body height (>3 cm). These two risk factors were more frequent among fallers with osteoporosis compared to fallers with normal bone mineral density or osteopenia (previous fractureP=.044, height reductionP=.0016). The osteoporosis frequency among fallers from ED did not differ from a similarly aged patient-group referred from general practice (P=.34).Conclusion. Osteodensitometry should be considered among fallers without fracture presenting in the ED, especially if the patient has a prior fracture or declined body height. Since fallers generally have higher fracture risk, the ED might serve as an additional entrance to osteodensitometry compared to referral from primary care.
Characterization of aerosol chemical composition with aerosol mass spectrometry in Central Europe: an overview
Authors: Lanz V. A. , Prévôt A. S. H. , Alfarra M. R. , Weimer S. , Mohr C. , DeCarlo P. F. , Gianini M. F. D. , Hueglin C. , Schneider J. , Favez O. , D'Anna B. , George C. , Baltensperger U.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. Real-time measurements of non-refractory submicron aerosols (NR-PM1) were conducted within the greater Alpine region (Switzerland, Germany, Austria, France and Liechtenstein) during several week-long field campaigns in 2002–2009. This region represents one of the most important economic and recreational spaces in Europe. A large variety of sites was covered including urban backgrounds, motorways, rural, remote, and high-alpine stations, and also mobile on-road measurements were performed. Inorganic and organic aerosol (OA) fractions were determined by means of aerosol mass spectrometry (AMS). The data originating from 13 different field campaigns and the combined data have been utilized for providing an improved temporal and spatial data coverage. The average mass concentration of NR-PM1 for the different campaigns typically ranged between 10 and 30 μg m−3. Overall, the organic portion was most abundant, ranging from 36% to 81% of NR-PM1. Other main constituents comprised ammonium (5–15%), nitrate (8–36%), sulfate (3–26%), and chloride (0–5%). These latter anions were, on average, fully neutralized by ammonium. As a major result, time of the year (winter vs. summer) and location of the site (Alpine valleys vs. Plateau) could largely explain the variability in aerosol chemical composition for the different campaigns and were found to be better descriptors for aerosol composition than the type of site (urban, rural etc.). Thus, a reassessment of classifications of measurements sites might be considered in the future, possibly also for other regions of the world. The OA data was further analyzed using positive matrix factorization (PMF) and the multi-linear engine ME (factor analysis) separating the total OA into its underlying components, such as oxygenated (mostly secondary) organic aerosol (OOA), hydrocarbon-like and freshly emitted organic aerosol (HOA), as well as OA from biomass burning (BBOA). OOA was ubiquitous, ranged between 36% and 94% of OA, and could be separated into a low-volatility and a semi-volatile fraction (LV-OOA and SV-OOA) for all summer campaigns at low altitude sites. Wood combustion (BBOA) accounted for a considerable fraction during wintertime (17–49% OA), particularly in narrow Alpine valleys BBOA was often the most abundant OA component. HOA/OA ratios were comparatively low for all campaigns (6–16%) with the exception of on-road, mobile measurements (23%) in the Rhine Valley. The abundance of the aerosol components and the retrievability of SV-OOA and LV-OOA are discussed in the light of atmospheric chemistry and physics.
Iron dissolution kinetics of mineral dust at low pH during simulated atmospheric processing
Authors: Shi Z. , Bonneville S. , Krom M. D. , Carslaw K. S. , Jickells T. D. , Baker A. R. , Benning L. G.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. We investigated the iron (Fe) dissolution kinetics of African (Tibesti) and Asian (Beijing) dust samples at acidic pH with the aim of reproducing the low pH conditions in atmospheric aerosols. The Beijing dust and three size fractions of the Tibesti dust (<20 μm: PM20; <10 μm: PM10; and <2.5 μm: PM2.5) were dissolved at pH 1, 2 and/or 3 for up to 1000 h. In the first 10 min, all dust samples underwent an extremely fast Fe solubilisation. Subsequently, the Fe dissolution proceeded at a much slower rate before reaching a stable dissolution plateau. The time-dependant Fe dissolution datasets were best described by a model comprising three acid-extractable Fe pools each dissolving according to first-order kinetics. The dissolution rate constant k of each pool was independent of the source (Saharan or Asian) and the size (PM20, PM10 or PM2.5) of the dust but highly dependent on pH. The "fast" Fe pool had a k (25 h−1 at pH=1) of a similar magnitude to "dry" ferrihydrite nanoparticles and/or poorly crystalline Fe(III) oxyhydroxide, while the "intermediate" and "slow" Fe pools had $k$ values respectively 50–60 times and 3000–4000 times smaller than the "fast" pool. The "slow" Fe pool was likely to consist of both crystalline Fe oxide phases (i.e., goethite and/or hematite) and Fe contained in the clay minerals. The initial mass of the "fast", "intermediate" and "slow" Fe pools represented respectively about 0.5–2%, 1–3% and 15–40% of the total Fe in the dust samples. Furthermore, we showed that in systems with low dust/liquid ratios, Fe can be dissolved from all three phases, whereas at high dust/liquid ratios (e.g., in aerosols), sufficient Fe is solubilised from the "fast" phase to dominate the Fe dissolved and to suppress the dissolution of Fe from the other Fe pools. These data demonstrated that dust/liquid ratio and pH are fundamental parameters controlling Fe dissolution kinetics in the dust. In order to reduce errors in atmospheric and climate models, these fundamental controlling factors need to be included.
Volcanic ash from Iceland over Munich: mass concentration retrieved from ground-based remote sensing measurements
Authors: Gasteiger J. , Groß S. , Freudenthaler V. , Wiegner M.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. Volcanic ash plumes, emitted by the Eyjafjallajökull volcano (Iceland) in spring 2010, were observed by the lidar systems MULIS and POLIS in Maisach (near Munich, Germany), and by a CIMEL Sun photometer and a JenOptik ceilometer in Munich. We retrieve mass concentrations of volcanic ash from the lidar measurements; spectral optical properties, i.e. extinction coefficients, backscatter coefficients, and linear depolarization ratios, are used as input for an inversion. The inversion algorithm searches for model aerosol ensembles with optical properties that agree with the measured values within their uncertainty ranges. The non-sphericity of ash particles is considered by assuming spheroids. Optical particle properties are calculated using the T-matrix method supplemented by the geometric optics approach. The lidar inversion is applied to observations of the pure volcanic ash plume in the morning of 17 April 2010. We find 1.45 g m−2 for the ratio between the mass concentration and the extinction coefficient at λ = 532 nm, assuming an ash density of 2.6 g cm−3. The uncertainty range for this ratio is from 0.9 g m−2 to 2.3 g m−2. At the peak of the ash concentration over Maisach the extinction coefficient at λ = 532 nm was 0.75 km−1 (1-h-average), which corresponds to a maximum mass concentration of 1.1 mg m−3 (0.65 to 1.7 mg m−3). We compare the lidar inversion results to results from an independent approach using sky radiance measurements of the CIMEL in the aureole of the Sun. We find good agreement.
Field intercomparison of two optical analyzers for CH4 eddy covariance flux measurements
Authors: Tuzson B. , Hiller R. V. , Zeyer K. , Eugster W. , Neftel A. , Ammann C. , Emmenegger L.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. Fast response optical analyzers based on laser absorption spectroscopy are the preferred tools to measure field-scale mixing ratios and fluxes of a range of trace gases. Several state-of-the-art instruments have become commercially available and are gaining in popularity. This paper aims for a critical field evaluation and intercomparison of two compact, cryogen-free and fast response instruments: a quantum cascade laser based absorption spectrometer from Aerodyne Research, Inc., and an off-axis integrated cavity output spectrometer from Los Gatos Research, Inc. In this paper, both analyzers are characterized with respect to precision, accuracy, response time and also their sensitivity to water vapour. The instruments were tested in a field campaign to assess their behaviour under various meteorological conditions. The instrument's suitability for eddy covariance flux measurements was evaluated by applying an artificial flux of CH4 generated above a managed grassland with otherwise very low methane exchange. This allowed an independent verification of the flux measurements accuracy, including the overall eddy covariance setup and data treatment. The retrieved fluxes were in good agreement with the known artificial emission flux, which is more than satisfactory, given that the analyzers were attached to separate sonic anemometers placed on individual eddy towers with different data acquisition systems but similar data treatment that are specific to the best practice used by the involved research teams.
Lipid biomarkers in Holocene and glacial sediments from ancient Lake Ohrid (Macedonia, Albania)
Authors: Holtvoeth J. , Vogel H. , Wagner B. , Wolff G. A.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. Organic matter preserved in Lake Ohrid sediments originates from aquatic and terrestrial sources. Its variable composition reflects climate-controlled changes in the lake basin's hydrology and related organic matter export, i.e. changes in primary productivity, terrestrial plant matter input and soil erosion. Here, we present first results from lipid biomarker investigations of Lake Ohrid sediments from two near-shore settings: site Lz1120 near the southern shore, with low-lying lands nearby and probably influenced by river discharge, and site Co1202 which is close to the steep eastern slopes. Variable proportions of terrestrial n-alkanoic acids and n-alkanols as well as compositional changes of ω-hydroxy acids document differences in soil organic matter supply between the sites and during different climate stages (glacial, Holocene, 8.2 ka cooling event). Changes in the vegetation cover are suggested by changes in the dominant chain length of terrestrial n-alkanols. Effective microbial degradation of labile organic matter and in situ contribution of organic matter derived from the microbes themselves are both evident in the sediments. We found evidence for anoxic conditions within the photic zone by detecting epicholestanol and tetrahymanol from sulphur-oxidising phototrophic bacteria and bacterivorous ciliates and for the influence of a settled human community from the occurrence of coprostanol, a biomarker for human and animal faeces (pigs, sheep, goats), in an early Holocene sample. This study illustrates the potential of lipid biomarkers for future environmental reconstructions using one of Europe's oldest continental climate archives, Lake Ohrid.
Brief communication "Determination of urban growth in catchment areas in Cyprus using multi-temporal remotely sensed data: risk assessment study"
Authors: Hadjimitsis D. G.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. The aim of this study is to quantify the actual urbanization activity near the catchment area in the urban area of interest located in the vicinity of the Agriokalamin River area of Kissonerga Village in Paphos District. Remotely sensed data such as aerial photos, Landsat-5/7 TM/ETM+ and Quickbird image data have been used to track the urbanization activity from 1963 to 2008. In-situ GPS measurements have been used to locate in-situ the boundaries of the catchment area. The results clearly illustrate that tremendous urban development has taken place ranging from 0.9 to 33% from 1963 to 2008, respectively. A flood risk assessment and hydraulic analysis were also performed.
A simple semi-empirical approach to model thickness of ash-deposits for different eruption scenarios
Authors: González-Mellado A. O. , De la Cruz-Reyna S.
Published: November 2010

Abstract. The impact of ash-fall on people, buildings, crops, water resources, and infrastructure depends on several factors such as the thickness of the deposits, grain size distribution and others. Preparedness against tephra falls over large regions around an active volcano requires an understanding of all processes controlling those factors, and a working model capable of predicting at least some of them. However, the complexity of tephra dispersion and sedimentation makes the search of an integral solution an almost unapproachable problem in the absence of highly efficient computing facilities due to the large number of equations and unknown parameters that control the process. An alternative attempt is made here to address the problem of modeling the thickness of ash deposits as a primary impact factor that can be easily communicated to the public and decision-makers. We develop a semi-empirical inversion model to estimate the thickness of non-compacted deposits produced by an explosive eruption around a volcano in the distance range 4–150 km from the eruptive source. The model was elaborated from the analysis of the geometric distribution of deposit thickness of 14 world-wide well-documented eruptions. The model was initially developed to depict deposits of potential eruptions of Popocatépetl and Colima volcanoes in México, but it can be applied to any volcano. It has been designed to provide planners and Civil Protection authorities of an accurate perception of the ash-fall deposit thickness that may be expected for different eruption scenarios. The model needs to be fed with a few easy-to-obtain parameters, namely, height of the eruptive column, duration of the explosive phase, and wind speed and direction, and its simplicity allows it to run in any platform, including a personal computers and even a notebook. The results may be represented as tables, two dimensional thickness-distance plots, or isopach maps using any available graphic interface. The model has been tested, with available data from some recent eruptions in México, and permits to generate ash-fall deposit scenarios from new situations, or to recreate past situations, or to superimpose scenarios from eruptions of other volcanoes. The results may be displayed as thickness vs. distance plots, or as deposit-thickness scenarios superimposed on a regional map by means of a visual computer simulator based on a user-friendly built-in computer graphic interface.
Contemporary Prestroke Dual Antiplatelet Use and Symptomatic Intracerebral Hemorrhage Risk After Thrombolysis
Authors: Peng Teng J. , Schwamm Lee H. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Hassan Ameer E. , Hill Michelle , Messé Steven R. , Coronado Fatima , Falcone Guido J. , Sharma Richa
Published: May 2024

Importance

Intravenous alteplase (IV-tPA) can be administered to patients with acute ischemic stroke but is associated with symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (sICH). It is unclear if patients taking prestroke dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) are at higher risk of sICH.

Objective

To determine the associated risk of sICH in patients taking prestroke dual antiplatelet therapy receiving alteplase for acute ischemic stroke using propensity score matching analysis.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used data from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association Get With The Guidelines–Stroke (GWTG-Stroke) registry between 2013 and 2021. Data were obtained from hospitals in the GWTG-Stroke registry. This study included patients hospitalized with acute ischemic stroke and treated with IV-tPA. Data were analyzed from January 2013 to December 2021.

Exposures

Prestroke DAPT before treatment with IV-tPA for acute ischemic stroke.

Main Outcome Measures

sICH, In-hospital death, discharge modified Rankin scale score, and other life-threatening systemic hemorrhages.

Results

Of 409 673 participants, 321 819 patients (mean [SD] age, 68.6 [15.1] years; 164 587 female [51.1%]) who were hospitalized with acute ischemic stroke and treated with IV-tPA were included in the analysis. The rate of sICH was 2.9% (5200 of 182 344), 3.8% (4457 of 117 670), and 4.1% (893 of 21 805) among patients treated with no antiplatelet therapy, single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT), and DAPT, respectively (P < .001). In adjusted analyses after propensity score subclassification, both SAPT (odds ratio [OR], 1.13; 95% CI, 1.07-1.19) and DAPT (OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.14-1.42) were associated with increased risks of sICH. Prestroke antiplatelet medications were associated with lower odds of discharge mRS score of 2 or less compared with no medication (SAPT OR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.90-0.95; DAPT OR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.88-0.98). Results of a subgroup analysis of patients taking DAPT exposed to aspirin-clopidogrel vs aspirin-ticagrelor combination therapy were not significant (OR, 1.35; 95% CI, 0.84-1.86).

Conclusions and Relevance

Prestroke DAPT was associated with a significantly elevated risk of sICH among patients with ischemic stroke who were treated with thrombolysis; however, the absolute increase in risk was small. Patients exposed to antiplatelet medications did not have excess sICH compared with landmark trials, which demonstrated overall clinical benefit of thrombolysis therapy for acute ischemic stroke.
What Parents Need to Know About Peanut Allergy
Authors: Fender Alexander W. , Thompson Jennifer L. , Thompson Lindsay A.
Published: May 2024

This JAMA Pediatrics Patient Page describes peanut allergy guidelines and the importance of giving peanut protein to young children to prevent development of an allergy.
Variations by State in Firearm Suicide Among US Children and Young Adults, 2016-2021
Authors: McKie Kerri A. , Bell Rebecca C. , Lee Lois K.
Published: May 2024

This cross-sectional study examines variations by state in firearm suicide rates in US children and young adults from 2016 to 2021 using data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.