bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The CUPCIG (CAM-Use in Primary Care in Germany) Study:Part I-Pain. Study Protocol of a Pilot-trial to Assess Feasibility, Acceptability and Perceived Effectiveness of CAM in Pain Disorders in Primary Care
Authors: Schencking Martin , Sönnichsen Andreas , Bassüner Susanne , Redaelli Marcus
Published: March 2016

Background: There is limited valid data available on CAM procedures for chronic joint and neuropathic pain in primary care in Germany. Indiviual CAM qualifications of the general practitioners (GPs) and the potential of cost reduction through CAM treatment are almost unknown. The aim of this pilot trial preceding the main study is to examine the survey mode, to estimate the response rate by GPs with or without an additional qualification for CAM, and to identify the status quo in therapeutic approaches for chronic pain disorders in primary care. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with an ex post facto design among German GPs consisting of 2 parts: In a first step, a pilot trial precedes the main study targeting 200 GPs with and 200 GPs without additional qualification in CAM in a selected region. Results: The results of the CUPCIG study comprise the distribution of pain types treated in primary care practices, the GPs' attitude toward complementary pain therapy, pharmacological or CAM treatment, the estimate of cost reduction through CAM treatment of pain, the application of diverse CAM procedures, and biographical data. Discussion: The CUPCIG study serves to compile pain therapy approaches in primary care in Germany with respect to the individual CAM expertise of the GPs.
Eine Therapieevaluation zur Behandlung von menopausalen Symptomen mit Padma Nerven-Tonikum
Authors: Kneip Bettina
Published: March 2016

Hintergrund: Die Folgen der hormonellen Umstellung in den Wechseljahren der Frau beeinträchtigen die Lebensqualität der Betroffenen erheblich. Viele Frauen wollen oder müssen die Standardtherapie mit Hormonersatzpräparaten vermeiden und bevorzugen komplementäre Behandlungsoptionen. Das pflanzliche Kombinationsarzneimittel Padma Nerven-Tonikum (Srog 'zin 10) wird eingesetzt bei nervösen Zuständen, Reizbarkeit und Ein- und Durchschlafstörungen, d.h. bei Beschwerden, die auch bei peri- und postmenopausalen Frauen vermehrt auftreten. Methoden: Der Behandlungsverlauf wurde anhand des MRS(Menopause Rating Scale)-Fragebogens festgehalten. Es handelt sich dabei um eine Selbstbeurteilungsskala für klimakterische Frauen. Die Daten wurden für Tag 1 der Therapie und nach einem Behandlungszeitraum von 4 Wochen erhoben. Ergebnisse: Im Verlauf der Behandlung von 11 Patientinnen mit menopausalen Beschwerden, mit und ohne onkologischen Vorbefund, zeigte sich durch Padma Nerven-Tonikum - bei guter Verträglichkeit - eine starke Verbesserung verschiedener Symptome, insbesondere von Hitzewallungen, Herzbeschwerden und Schlafstörungen. Ausserdem konnten die Beschwerden Depression, Reizbarkeit und Fatigue reduziert werden. Schlussfolgerungen: Die Resultate zeigen, dass Padma Nerven-Tonikum bei peri- und postmenopausalen Frauen zur Linderung von Wechseljahrbeschwerden eingesetzt werden kann.
Anti-dandruff Hair Tonic Containing Lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) Oil
Authors: Chaisripipat Wannee , Lourith Nattaya , Kanlayavattanakul Mayuree
Published: March 2016

Background: Natural remedies for treating dandruff are becoming popular. Materials and Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, split-head efficacy evaluation was conducted 30 Thai volunteers aged 20-60 years experiencing dandruff measured at level 3 on D-Squame® scale. An easy to use hair tonic containing essential oil of lemongrass (Cymbopogon flexuosus) active against lipophilic yeasts was developed and then evaluated for efficacy and preference. The base formulation with the significantly highest preference (p < 0.05) was stowed with the oil at 5, 10 or 15%. Subjects applied the formulation twice a day, and an efficacy assessment with D-Squame® scale was conducted on days 7 and 14 of application. Results: The application of lemongrass oil hair tonics with 5, 10, or 15% reduced dandruff significant (p < 0.005) at day 7 (33, 75, and 51%) and increased the effect even more (p < 0.005) at day 14 (52, 81, and 74%). Conclusion: The hair tonic formulation with 10% of lemongrass oil seems to be the most effective preparation.
Gesundheitsförderung durch Stress- und Burnout-Prophylaxe mit ätherischen Ölen für alle Berufsgruppen im Wiener Otto-Wagner-Spital
Authors: Steflitsch Wolfgang , Steiner Doris , Peinhaupt Wilfried , Riedler Beate , Smuc Michael , Diewald Gabriele
Published: March 2016

Hintergrund: Mehr als 50% der Menschen leiden an berufsbedingtem und familiärem Stress, der bei hohem Pegel zu körperlichen, mentalen und sozialen Beeinträchtigungen bis hin zum Burnout-Syndrom führen kann. Die regelmäßige Anwendung von hochwertigen ätherischen Ölen vermag den individuellen Stresspegel deutlich zu senken. In einem Projekt zur Gesundheitsförderung durch Stress- und Burnout-Prophylaxe soll die Stressreduktion durch ätherische Öle bestätigt werden. Methodik: In das Studienprojekt konnten insgesamt 88 Mitarbeiter des Wiener Otto Wagner Spitals mit auswertbaren Aufnahme- und 55 Mitarbeiter mit auswertbaren Abschluss-Fragebögen aufgenommen werden. Die Teilnehmer erhielten einen SOS-Stress-Deoroller mit 12 ätherischen Ölen, der mindestens 3-mal täglich einen Monat lang an den Pulszonen der Handgelenke aufgetragen wurde. Ergebnisse: Zum Befragungszeitpunkt 1 am Tag der Aufnahme in die Studie betrug der Stresswert bezogen auf eine Stress-Skala von 1 (gar nicht belastet) bis 10 (sehr stark belastet) im Mittel 6,28, am Ende der Beobachtungszeit 5,24. In der Analyse der körperlichen Beeinträchtigungen durch Stress (SK 1-8) zeigte sich beim Pflegepersonal (p = 0,036) und bei Personen über 50 Jahren (p = 0,012 bzw. 0,025) ein signifikanter Benefit der Aromatherapie. Das Belastungsniveau durch körperlichen, psychischen und sozialen Stress zwischen Befragungszeitpunkt 1 und 2 zeigte deutliche, mitunter signifikante positive Veränderung durch die Anwendung der ätherischen Öle. Bei 27 Teilnehmern konnten die Fragebögen von Zeitpunkt 1 und 2 dem jeweiligen Teilnehmer zugeordnet werden. In dieser Personengruppe zeigten sich sowohl in der Gesamtbelastung wie auch in allen Teilbereichen signifikant positive Ergebnisse der Aromatherapie. Schlussfolgerung: Ein Großteil der Teilnehmer konnte mittels der ätherischen Öle im SOS-Stress-Deoroller seine Stress-assoziierten Beeinträchtigungen deutlich reduzieren. Es konnten keine allergischen Reaktionen oder Unverträglichkeiten beobachtet werden. Ausgewählte hochwertige ätherische Öle können für die Prophylaxe und Behandlung von Stress und Burnout empfohlen werden.
HIV Nosode: The Homeopathic Pathogenetic Trial
Authors: Shah Rajesh
Published: March 2016

Background: Deriving clinical indications for the HIV nosode by conducting a double-blind, placebo-controlled homeopathic pathogenetic trial (HPT) with the aim to introduce a new nosode to the profession. Method: The HPT was conducted in 22 volunteers, 15 of which received HIV nosode in 30c potency pills, while 7 received identical placebo pills orally, once a week, for 4 weeks. The volunteers' symptoms during initial 7 days of run-in period were noted. All symptoms for both groups produced during run-in period were excluded from final analysis. Informed consent form, approval by Ethics Committee, laboratory investigations as well as safety and ethical measures were provided. The volunteers were trained to write data in prescribed diaries, and the data were analyzed. Results: The HPT of the HIV nosode exhibited qualitatively distinct symptoms, which can be applied in clinical practice. Number of symptoms reported in verum group was 130, in placebo group 60. Quantitative pathogenetic index was 0.285 in verum group, 0.238 in placebo group; qualitative pathogenetic index was 0.1402 in the verum group as compared to placebo (0.0907). Safe use was documented. Conclusion: This study brought in guiding symptoms, which will help the profession to employ this nosode in practice.
Ergebnis einer integrativen Behandlung bei stationären Patienten mit chronischen Leiden - eine Beobachtungsstudie
Authors: Winnicki Cesar , Ernst Rahel
Published: March 2016

Hintergrund: Beurteilung der subjektiven Ergebnisse (Outcome) einer stationären, integrativen Behandlung bei Patienten mit diversen chronischen Erkrankungen im Sinne gesundheitsbezogener Lebensqualität (LQ). Methoden: Eine systematische Erhebung der gesundheitsbezogenen LQ wurde in der Aeskulap Klinik, Zentrum für ärztliche Ganzheitsmedizin, Brunnen, Schweiz, bei allen stationären Patienten bei Eintritt, Austritt sowie 4 Wochen nach der Hospitalisation mittels des Fragebogens SF-12 durchgeführt. Die erfassten Daten erlaubten eine statistische Beurteilung sowohl der initialen gesundheitlichen Situation als auch des Behandlungsergebnisses hinsichtlich körperlicher (KSS) und psychischer (PSS) Gesundheit. Ergebnisse: Es wurden insgesamt 194 stationäre Patienten beurteilt, wobei die Rücklaufquote für die Erhebung während der Hospitalisation 83,0% und für die poststationäre Erhebung 54,1% betrug. Für das gesamte Kollektiv wurde eine wesentliche, statistisch signifikante Verbesserung sowohl des körperlichen als auch des psychischen Gesundheitszustands festgestellt. Der initiale KSS-Wert von 31,49 ± 11,2 verbesserte sich um 5,83 ± 10,1 Skalenpunkte während der Hospitalisation sowie um 7,03 ± 9,9 Skalenpunkte danach, was einer Effektgrösse von 0,54 bzw. 0,68 entsprach (p < 0,0001 bzw. p < 0,0001). Der psychische PSS-Wert stieg vom Ausgangswert 33,87 ± 13,3 um 9,3 ± 12,6 bzw. 9,9 ± 14,4 an (Effektgrösse 0,74 bzw. 0,87; p < 0,0001 bzw. p < 0,0001). Über 60% aller Patienten erreichten einen Anstieg der LQ-Parameter von über 5 Skalenpunkten (klinisch relevantes Ergebnis). Schlussfolgerungen: Vor dem Hintergrund der chronischen, komplexen Erkrankungen der behandelten Patienten deuten die erzielten Ergebnisse der integrativen stationären Behandlung auf einen klinisch relevanten Behandlungserfolg hin. Das Problem der geringen Kollektivgrösse, des Datenverlusts bei der poststationären Befragung sowie des kurzen Follow-ups begrenzen die Aussagekraft dieser Beobachtungsstudie.
Mobilization of Bone Marrow-Derived Endothelial Progenitor Cells following Finnish Sauna: A Pilot Study
Authors: Donndorf Peter , Lube Luisa , Lux Cornelia , Skorska Anna , Steinhoff Gustav , Kraft Karin
Published: March 2016

Background: Sauna bathing is claimed to provide benefits for patients suffering from cardiovascular diseases. The current study aims at analyzing the induction of potential regenerative processes by quantifying the mobilization of bone marrow-derived stem cells into the peripheral blood of healthy adults following Finnish sauna. Materials and Methods: Twenty healthy unbiased male volunteers (20-30 years old) were exposed to a Finnish sauna bath (3 × 10 min, 90°C). Venous blood samples were drawn before (baseline), immediately, and 6 h as well as 24 h after the sauna bath. Blood analysis included isolation of mononuclear cells, cell staining with mononuclear antibodies, and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). For baseline and 24 h post-sauna samples colony-forming unit-Hill assays were applied to quantify endothelial progenitor cells (EPC). Results: Flow cytometry revealed an upregulation of circulating CD45+/CD309+ progenitor cells immediately after the sauna bath, however without reaching statistical significance. Circulating cell numbers of the CD45+CD34+, CD45+CD34+CD133+, and CD45+CD34+CD117+ populations did not show clear enhancements following sauna. EPC colony formation tended to be enhanced after sauna as compared to baseline values. Conclusion: Peripheral EPC numbers exhibited a moderate increase following Finnish sauna in a cohort of healthy young men. Furthermore, sauna bathing tended to increase EPC colony-forming capacity. These rather weak responses to thermotherapy might indicate a ceiling effect. In individuals exhibiting cardiovascular risk factors the effects may be more pronounced.
Von Freiberg nach Northampton: Der Weg des Naturheilkundigen Dr. Carl Munde in die USA
Authors: Averbeck Hubertus
Published: March 2016

Der Sprachlehrer und Hydropath Dr. phil. Carl Munde wurde durch politische Umstände dazu veranlasst, nach einer bis dahin bunten Karriere seine deutsche Heimat 1849 zu verlassen, um in den USA als Leiter und Besitzer einer Kaltwasser-Heilanstalt, einer sogenannten «Water-Cure», in Florence/Northampton im US-Bundesstaat Massachusetts eineinhalb Jahrzehnte lang sein Glück zu machen. Munde war in Deutschland vor allem durch seine Schriften über die Prießnitzsche Wasserkur und entsprechende eigene Interpretationen bekannt geworden. Auch in den USA wurde sein Name weithin bekannt und ist bis heute mit dem Ortsteil Florence von Northampton verbunden. Munde, der sich als naturalisierter US-Bürger Charles Munde nannte, kehrte nach dem tragischen Verlust seiner Heilanstalt durch einen Brand im Jahr 1866 mit seiner Familie zurück nach Deutschland, um nach einer Zwischenstation in der Schweiz und einer Tätigkeit als Leiter einer Wasserheilanstalt bei Laibach (slowenisch: Ljubljana) schliesslich im damals österreichischen Görz am Isonzo seinen Alterswohnsitz zu nehmen.
Yoga in Deutschland - Ergebnisse einer national repräsentativen Umfrage
Authors: Cramer Holger
Published: March 2016

Hintergrund: Yoga wird weltweit vermehrt als therapeutische und präventive Methode angewandt. Ziel dieser national repräsentativen Umfrage war die Erhebung der Lebenszeit- und Punktprävalenz für Yoga-Praxis in Deutschland und die Erfragung der Gründe für die Inanspruchnahme von Yoga sowie der damit einhergehenden wahrgenommenen Veränderungen. Methoden: Von August bis September 2014 wurde eine national repräsentative Stichprobe von 2041 Personen ab 14 Jahren bezüglich derzeitiger und früherer Yoga-Praxis interviewt. Unterschiede zwischen soziodemografischen Subgruppen wurden mittels Chi-Quadrat-Tests analysiert. Ergebnisse: Die Lebenszeitprävalenz für die Yoga-Praxis lag bei 15,1%, die Punkt-Prävalenz bei 3,3%. Höhere Prävalenz war assoziiert mit weiblichem Geschlecht (p < 0,001), höherem Bildungsabschluss (p < 0,001), Berufstätigkeit (p = 0,047) und Wohnen in Großstädten (p < 0,001). Die durchschnittliche Dauer der Yoga-Praxis betrug 48,2 Monate, 61,7% der Befragten praktizierten mindestens einmal wöchentlich. Wichtigste Gründe, Yoga zu praktizieren, waren Verbesserungen des körperlichen (62,8%) und geistigen Befindens (56,9%) sowie der körperlichen (54,4%) und geistigen Leistungsfähigkeit (50,0%). Positive Veränderungen durch die Yoga-Praxis berichteten 89,7%, insbesondere größere Ausgeglichenheit (58,8%). Weitere 16,1% der aktuell nicht praktizierenden Befragten konnten sich vorstellen, in den nächsten 12 Monaten mit Yoga zu beginnen. Schlussfolgerung: Geschätzte 15,7 Millionen Menschen in Deutschland praktizieren aktuell Yoga oder sind daran interessiert, mit Yoga zu beginnen; darunter am häufigsten vertreten sind Frauen, Großstädter sowie Personen mit höherem Bildungsabschluss und Berufstätige. Fast 90% der Praktizierenden berichten positive Veränderungen durch die Yoga-Praxis.
Placebo by Proxy - the Influence of Parental Anxiety and Expectancy on Postoperative Morbidities in Children
Authors: Liodden Ingrid , Sandvik Leiv , Norheim Arne Johan
Published: March 2016

Background: Placebo effects emerging from expectancies of relatives, also known as placebo by proxy, is a rather unexplored field. In this study, we assume a correlation between parental anxiety/expectancy and postoperative morbidities in children. Accordingly, a reduction of parental anxiety is expected to enhance the effect of treatment. Methods: From October 2012 to June 2013, parents of 282 children completed a self-report closed-ended questionnaire embedded in a main RCT at three ambulatory care centers. Results: There were no significant associations between parental expectancy or anxiety and children experiencing vomiting and pain. Conclusion: The present study is the first to investigate placebo by proxy in acupuncture treatment for children. The findings were not able to demonstrate any placebo effect by proxy. Unknown confounders and limitations of methods may have contributed to the negative findings. Thus, the findings must be read with precaution, as the possibility of a type II error cannot be excluded. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01729052.
Continuous Venovenous Hemodiafiltration in the Treatment of Maple Syrup Urine Disease
Authors: Demirkol Demet , Şık Güntülü , Topal Nilüfer , Çıtak Agop , Zeybek Çigdem , Tüten Abdülhamit , Bilge Ilmay
Published: March 2016

Background: The study aims to define the efficacy of continuous renal replacement therapy in acute metabolic decompensation treatment of maple syrup urine disease (MSUD). Methods: All the neonates, infants and children who have had life threatening conditions due to MSUD and were treated with continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration (CVVHDF) were analyzed retrospectively. Results: Fourteen patients underwent 15 sessions of CVVHDF (age range 15 days to 87 months, mean 40.8 ± 31.4 months). One patient required additional CVVHDF 1 week after cessation of CVVHDF. Twenty seven percent (n = 4) of the patients were intubated and mechanically ventilated. Twelve patients responded to treatment and dramatic neurological improvement was observed within 24 h. Two of the 14 patients required 36 h of CVVHDF for neurological improvement. The mean duration of CVVHDF was 20.2 ± 8.6 (9-36) h. The mean leucine level was 1,648 ± 623.8 (714-2,768) μmol/l before and was 256.5 ± 150.6 (117-646) μmol/l at the end of treatment. No mortality was observed. Conclusion: Continuous hemodiafiltration is an effective and safe method in correcting metabolic disturbances in MSUD.
Identification of Genetic Defects Underlying FXII Deficiency in Four Unrelated Chinese Patients
Authors: Yang Lihong , Wang Yingyu , Zhou Jianpin , Cheng Xiaoli , Hao Xiuping , Xie Haixiao , Jin Yanhui , Wang Mingshan
Published: March 2016

Congenital factor XII (FXII) deﬁciency is a rare autosomal recessive disorder, characterized by a great variability in its clinical manifestations. In this study, we screened for mutations in the F12 gene of 4 unrelated patients with FXII coagulant activity <10% of that of normal human plasma. To investigate the molecular defects in these FXII-deficient patients, we performed FXII mutation screening. By sequencing all coding exons as well as flanking intronic regions of the F12 gene, 6 different mutations, including 3 missense mutations (Gly341Arg, Glu502Lys and Gly542 Ser), 1 insertion (7142insertC) and 2 deletions (5741-5742 delCA and 6753-6755delACA), were identiﬁed on the F12 gene. Three of them (Gly341Arg, 5741-5742delCA and 6753-6755delACA) are reported here for the first time. Computer-based algorithms predicted these missense mutations to be deleterious. This study has increased our knowledge of the mutational spectrum underlying FXII deficiency.
1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 Facilitates M2 Polarization and Upregulates TLR10 Expression on Human Microglial Cells
Authors: Verma Rewa , Kim Jae Young
Published: March 2016

Objective: To explore the effects of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3], the active metabolite of vitamin D, on M1/M2 polarization of human microglia and the expression of Toll-like receptor 10 (TLR10) on these cells, which has been suggested to play an inhibitory role in inflammation previously. Methods: Microglial HMO6 cells were treated with 1,25(OH)2D3, and mRNA or protein levels of M1 and M2 cytokines and TLR10 were examined. Results: 1,25(OH)2D3 upregulated TLR10 in HMO6 cells at both mRNA and protein level. 1,25(OH)2D3 enhanced basal mRNA expression of M2 cytokines, such as IL-10 and CCL17, but did not affect the expression of M1 cytokines, including IL-12 and TNF-α. 1,25(OH)2D3 downregulated the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced mRNA expression of M1 cytokines IL-12 and TNF-α. Concomitantly, it upregulated not only the M2 cytokines IL-10 and CCL17, but also TLR10 in microglial cells treated with LPS, in a concentration-dependent manner. Conclusions: Our results suggest that 1,25(OH)2D3 may exert anti-inflammatory action by facilitating the M2 polarization of human microglial cells.
Short-Term Retinal Sensitivity and Metamorphopsia Changes following Half-Fluence Photodynamic Therapy in Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Casalino Giuseppe , Del Turco Claudia , Corvi Federico , Rafaeli Omer , Bandello Francesco , Querques Giuseppe
Published: March 2016

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the short-term retinal sensitivity and metamorphopsia changes after half-fluence photodynamic therapy (PDT) in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Methods: Patients with acute CSC and evidence of angiographic leakage and subretinal fluid on optical coherence tomography (OCT) were enrolled. Before, and 1 week (W-1) and 2 months (M-2) after PDT, all patients underwent best-corrected visual acuity, enhanced depth imaging OCT, microperimetry (MP) and preferential hyperacuity perimetry (PHP). We considered ‘affected' the Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) sectors showing a mean retinal thickness greater than 350 μm on the baseline OCT thickness map. MP retinal sensitivity, PHP ‘score' and retinal thickness were measured in each ETDRS ‘affected sector'. Functional correlation between MP and PHP was also investigated. Results: Twelve eyes of 12 patients were included. MP and PHP correlated with each other at baseline (p = 0.04) but not at W-1 (p = 0.12) and M-2 (p = 0.05). Mean MP retinal sensitivity slightly improved from 12.9 ± 5.0 dB at baseline to 14.5 ± 4.7 dB at M-2 (p = 0.2). The PHP score changed from 0.33 at baseline to 0.32 at M-2 (p = 0.3). In the ETDRS ‘affected sectors', MP retinal sensitivity improved significantly from 12.9 ± 5.0 dB at baseline to 14.5 ± 4.7 dB at M-2 (p = 0.03), whereas the PHP score did not show significant changes over time. Conclusion: Half-fluence PDT achieved short-term improvement in the sensitivity of the retinal ‘affected sectors' but did not influence metamorphopsia as measured on PHP in patients with acute CSC.
Evaluation of Hearing Function by Auditory Brainstem Response in Newborn Patients with Hydrocephalus before and after Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Surgery
Authors: Ozturk Sait , Erol Fatih Serhat , Akgun Bekir , Kaplan Metin , Birkent Omer Faruk , Karlidag Turgut
Published: March 2016

Background/Aim: There is currently no objective evaluation of hearing in patients with hydrocephalus (HCP), and we could not find any study in the literature comprising a sufficient number of patients with a high level of scientific evidence. In the current study, we used the auditory brainstem response (ABR) test to assess whether hearing function in patients with HCP is altered after ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery. Methods: In total, 20 newborn patients with HCP (13 female, 7 male) were enrolled in this study. For each patient, ABR testing was performed at three time points: 1 day prior to the operation and on days 7 and 90 after the operation. ABRs using click stimuli of 90, 70, 50 and 30 dB nHL (normal hearing level) were achieved for V-wave latency, and I-III and I-IV interpeak latencies for both ears were recorded. Variance analysis for parametric data and Tukey's post hoc honest significant difference test were used to demonstrate the relationship between the results obtained from the different recording periods. Results were considered significant at p < 0.05, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Results: The mean values of the ABR tests were compared between the pre- and postoperative results, which showed an increase (faster transmission) of nerve conduction velocity of 0.2 ms. The results were not statistically significant for 50 and 90 dB (p > 0.05) but were significant for 30 and 70 dB (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Diagnosis in hydrocephalic patients is important not only for the treatment but also for the prevention of HCP-associated complications. Early treatment appears to be promising in terms of auditory benefit. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are therefore essential as soon as possible.
The Quality of Rare Disease Registries: Evaluation and Characterization
Authors: Coi Alessio , Santoro Michele , Villaverde-Hueso Ana , Lipucci Di Paola Michele , Gainotti Sabina , Taruscio Domenica , Posada de la Paz Manuel , Bianchi Fabrizio
Published: March 2016

Background: The focus on the quality of the procedures for data collection, storing, and analysis in the definition and implementation of a rare disease registry (RDR) is the basis for developing a valid and long-term sustainable tool. The aim of this study was to provide useful information for characterizing a quality profile for RDRs using an analytical approach applied to RDRs participating in the European Platform for Rare Disease Registries 2011-2014 (EPIRARE) survey. Methods: An indicator of quality was defined by choosing a small set of quality-related variables derived from the survey. The random forest method was used to identify the variables best defining a quality profile for RDRs. Fisher's exact test was employed to assess the association with the indicator of quality, and the Cochran-Armitage test was used to check the presence of a linear trend along different levels of quality. Results: The set of variables found to characterize high-quality RDRs focused on ethical and legal issues, governance, communication of activities and results, established procedures to regulate access to data and security, and established plans to ensure long-term sustainability. Conclusions: The quality of RDRs is usually associated with a good oversight and governance mechanism and with durable funding. The results suggest that RDRs would benefit from support in management, information technology, epidemiology, and statistics.
Treatment of Seborrhoeic Dermatitis in Asia: A Consensus Guide
Authors: Cheong Wai Kwong , Yeung Chi Keung , Torsekar Raghunandan Govind , Suh Dae Hun , Ungpakorn Rataporn , Widaty Sandra , Azizan Noor Zalmy , Gabriel Maria Teresita , Tran Hau Khang , Chong Wei Sheng , Shih I-Hsin , DallʼOglio Federica , Micali Giuseppe
Published: March 2016

Seborrhoeic dermatitis (SD) is common in Asia. Its prevalence is estimated to be 1-5% in adults. However, larger population-based studies into the epidemiology of SD in Asia are lacking, and the aetiology of SD may differ widely from Western countries and in different parts of Asia. In addition, clinically significant differences between Asian and Caucasian skin have been reported. There is a need to define standardized clinical diagnostic criteria and/or a grading system to help determine appropriate treatments for SD within Asia. With this in mind, experts from India, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Italy convened to define the landscape of SD in Asia at a meeting held in Singapore. The consensus group developed a comprehensive algorithm to aid clinicians to recommend appropriate treatment of SD in both adults and children. In most cases, satisfactory therapeutic results can be accomplished with topical antifungal agents or topical corticosteroids. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents with antifungal properties have been shown to be a viable option for both acute and maintenance therapy.
Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia and Increased Scalp Sweating: Is Neurogenic Inflammation the Common Link
Authors: Harries Matthew J. , Wong Sharon , Farrant Paul
Published: March 2016

Frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) is an uncommon scarring hair loss disorder that is characterized by a band-like recession of the frontal hair line with eyebrow hair loss. We present a series of patients with FFA and increased sweating predominantly localized to the scalp, and potential explanations for this association are discussed. We hypothesize that the reported increase in sweating seen in our patients may be in part related to the inflammatory process occurring locally within the skin, either inducing a local axonal sweating reflex or through direct modulation of sweat gland secretion by neuropeptides.
Condensin in Chromatid Cohesion and Segregation
Authors: Uchiyama Susumu , Fukui Kiichi
Published: March 2016

After replication of genomic DNA during the S phase, 2 chromatids hold together longitudinally. When cells enter mitosis, the paired sister chromatids start to condense and then segregate into individual chromatids except for the centromeric region. Upon attachment of microtubules to the kinetochore, subsequent pulling of the 2 sister chromatids by the spindles towards opposite poles results in 2 completely separated chromatids. Besides more than 100 kinds of kinetochore proteins, several key proteins such as cohesin, separase, shugoshin, and condensin contribute to chromatid cohesion and segregation. Among these proteins, condensin, a protein complex composed of 5 subunits discovered 2 decades ago, has been extensively studied in terms of the maintenance of chromosome morphology as its major function. Recent studies on condensin uncovered its role in chromatid cohesion and segregation, which will be reviewed in this article.
Optimizing the Histological Diagnosis of Adenomyosis Using in vitro Three-Dimensional Ultrasonography
Authors: Van den Bosch Thierry , Votino Angelo , Cornelis Ann , Vandermeulen Lieselore , Van Pachterbeke Catherine , Van Schoubroeck Dominique , Timmerman Dirk
Published: March 2016

The use of in vitro three-dimensional ultrasound examination with needle stereotaxis after hysterectomy is illustrated in a case of extensive adenomyosis. The quality of the images at in vitro ultrasonography was compared with the quality of the images obtained at the preoperative ultrasound examination. The ultrasound findings were compared with the macroscopical and the microscopical examination. This new approach helps in indicating the precise location of the preoperatively identified adenomyosis lesions to the pathologist. This may optimize the diagnostic accuracy of the histological examination in women with adenomyosis.
Transcatheter Replacement of Stenotic Aortic Valve Normalizes Cardiac–Coronary Interaction by Restoration of Systolic Coronary Flow Dynamics as Assessed by Wave Intensity Analysis
Authors: Rolandi M. Cristina , Wiegerinck Esther M.A. , Casadonte Lorena , Yong Ze-Yie , Koch Karel T. , Vis Marije , Piek Jan J. , Baan Jan , Spaan Jos A.E. , Siebes Maria
Published: March 2016

Background—

Aortic valve stenosis (AS) can cause angina despite unobstructed coronary arteries, which may be related to increased compression of the intramural microcirculation, especially at the subendocardium. We assessed coronary wave intensity and phasic flow velocity patterns to unravel changes in cardiac–coronary interaction because of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Methods and Results—

Intracoronary pressure and flow velocity were measured at rest and maximal hyperemia in undiseased vessels in 15 patients with AS before and after TAVI and in 12 control patients. Coronary flow reserve, systolic and diastolic velocity time integrals, and the energies of forward (aorta-originating) and backward (microcirculatory-originating) coronary waves were determined. Coronary flow reserve was 2.8±0.2 (mean±SEM) in control and 1.8±0.1 in AS (
P
<0.005) and was not restored by TAVI. Compared with control, the resting backward expansion wave was 45% higher in AS. The peak of the systolic forward compression wave was delayed in AS, consistent with a delayed peak aortic pressure, which was partially restored after TAVI. The energy of forward waves doubled after TAVI, whereas the backward expansion wave increased by >30%. The increase in forward compression wave with TAVI was related to an increase in systolic velocity time integral. AS or TAVI did not alter diastolic velocity time integral.

Conclusions—

Reduced coronary forward wave energy and systolic velocity time integral imply a compromised systolic flow velocity with AS that is restored after TAVI, suggesting an acute relief of excess compression in systole that likely benefits subendocardial perfusion. Vasodilation is observed to be a major determinant of backward waves.
Treatment Effect of Clopidogrel Plus Aspirin Within 12 Hours of Acute Minor Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Li Zixiao , Wang Yilong , Zhao Xingquan , Liu Liping , Wang David , Wang Chunxue , Meng Xia , Li Hao , Pan Yuesong , Wang Xianwei , Wang Chunjuan , Yang Xiaomeng , Zhang Changqing , Jing Jing , Xian Ying , Johnston S. Claiborne , Wang Yongjun ,   on behalf of the CHANCE Investigators
Published: March 2016

Background

The aim of this study was to analyze the benefits and safety associated with the combination therapy of clopidogrel and aspirin among minor stroke or transient ischemic attack patients treated within 12 hours.

Methods and Results

This was a subanalysis of the
CHANCE
(Clopidogrel in High‐Risk Patients with Acute Nondisabling Cerebrovascular Events) trial, mainly limited to the prespecified group of patients randomized within 12 hours to either the combination of clopidogrel plus aspirin or aspirin alone. The primary outcome was ischemic stroke during 90‐day follow‐up. Recurrent ischemic stroke and progressive ischemic stroke were analyzed. Multivariable Cox modeling showed that randomization within 12 hours was an independent predictor of ischemic stroke events (hazard ratio [95%
CI
] 1.25 [1.04–1.49],
P
=0.02). Among 2573 patients randomized within 12 hours, 282 (10.96%) patients had ischemic stroke events. Among them, 158 (12.34%) of 1280 patients taking aspirin experienced ischemic stroke compared with 124 (9.59%) of 1293 patients taking clopidogrel–aspirin (
P
=0.02). The dual antiplatelet was more effective than aspirin alone in reducing the risk of recurrent ischemic stroke (6.57% versus 8.91%,
P
=0.03) but not progressive ischemic stroke (3.02% versus 3.43%,
P
=0.28). There was no significant difference in hemorrhagic events (
P
=0.39).

Conclusions

Among patients treated within 12 hours, the combination of clopidogrel and aspirin was more effective than aspirin alone in reducing the risk of recurrent ischemic stroke during the 90‐day follow‐up and did not increase the hemorrhagic risk.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/
. Unique identifier:
NCT
00979589.
(Q. 12:2) We have sent it down as an Arabic Qurʾān:Praying behind the Lisper
Authors: Nasser Shady Hekmat
Published: March 2016

Muslims are required to recite the Qurʾān properly according to the complex rules of Qurʾānic recitation. This is especially the case during liturgical practices such as ritual prayers. The leader (imām) of congregational prayers (ṣalāt al-jamāʿah) is expected to be more learned in the Qurʾān than the individuals he is leading, and a better reciter. The case of the lisper (al-althagh) poses a challenge: An imām who lisps would be reciting the Qurʾān incorrectly and, in many cases, might change the meaning of the verses. In this article I discuss the problem of the lisper and the situations in which he is allowed to serve, or is forbidden from serving, as an imām for a group of individuals. I also discuss and analyse the positions of several jurists from different schools of law after first providing background on lisping, speech disorders and the general requirements of imāmah.
On potential links between inequity aversion and the structure of interactions for the evolution of cooperation
Authors: Brosnan Sarah F. , Bshary Redouan
Published: March 2016

Despite the fact that most models of cooperation assume equal outcomes between individuals, in real life it is likely rare that this is the case. Does it make a difference for our understanding of the evolution of cooperation? Following a taxonomy of cooperation concepts that focuses on costs and benefits, we explore this question by considering the degree to which inequity aversion may provide one mechanism to stabilize cooperation. We suggest a key role for inequity aversion in some contexts in both biological markets and direct reciprocity, and highlight the potentially unique role of positive inequity aversion for human reputation games. Nevertheless, a key challenge is to determine how different animal species perceive the payoff structure of their interactions, how they see their interaction with their partners, and the degree to which simpler mechanisms, like contrast effects or the associative learning seen in optimal foraging, may produce similar outcomes.
The Association Between Serum Procalcitonin Levels and Severity of Coronary Artery Disease Assessed by SYNTAX Score in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Ertem Ahmet Göktuğ , Efe Tolga Han , Yayla Çağrı , Akboğa Mehmet Kadri , Açar Burak , Ünal Sefa , Kirbaş Özgür , Sezer Tekce Yasemin , Maden Orhan , Selcuk Hatice , Selcuk Mehmet Timur
Published: March 2016

The SYNTAX score (SX score) is a useful score for assessing the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD). Previous studies have demonstrated a close relationship between SX score and inflammation. Procalcitonin (PCT) is an early inflammatory marker, especially during sepsis. Thus, in this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between SX score and serum PCT levels. A total of 545 patients were enrolled in this prospective cross-sectional study and were divided into 2 subgroups, according to their SX score. Serum PCT and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels were measured. Serum PCT levels were higher in the high SX score group compared to the low–intermediate SX score group ( P < .001). Serum PCT levels were an independent predictor of a high SX score in patients with acute coronary syndrome ( P = .001). As patients with a higher SX score had increased serum PCT levels on admission, serum PCT may be useful for identifying patients with severe CAD.
Just about everybody doing the business? Explaining ‘cash-for-crash’ insurance fraud in the United Kingdom
Authors: Button Mark , Brooks Graham , Lewis Chris , Aleem Azeem
Published: March 2016

There is much international research on the different types of fraud committed by individuals and/or organised crime. There is, however, limited research on insurance fraud and a particular species of such fraud which has become known as ‘cash-for-crash’ fraud in the United Kingdom. In addition, there are very few published studies of fraudsters which actually draw upon interviews with them. This article bridges both of these gaps providing a focus upon ‘cash-for-crash’ fraudsters which is based upon empirical research drawn from six interviews with such offenders and a database of over 400 offenders built upon successful prosecutions of such cases in the United Kingdom. This article offers a profile of such offenders and presents insights into why and how some people might become involved in ‘cash-for-crash’ type frauds.
“Senza raccontarli i luoghi non esistono”: Il GRA di Roma tra urbanistica e transmedia storytelling
Authors: Modena Letizia
Published: March 2016

Il saggio esamina l'esservazione della periferia di Roma a ridosso del Grande Raccordo Anulare (GRA) nel film di Gianfranco Rosi ( Sacro GRA: storie dal Grande Raccordo Anulare, 2013) e nel racconto di viaggio di Nicolò Bassetti e Sapo Matteucci ( Sacro romano GRA: persone, luoghi, paesaggi lungo il grande raccordo anulare, 2013). Lo studio colloca le due opere all'interno delle caratteristiche territoriali della cosiddetta “città del GRA”, e le pone in dialogo con la più recente riflessione urbanistica. Riconoscendo la presenza massiccia di territori in costante mutamento e la difficoltà di capirli in modo costruttivo, chi oggi si interroga su identità e bisogni del periurbano sta urgentemente generando nuove categorie interpretative per la città. In rapporto con questo pensiero urbanistico, i lavori sperimentano una modalità d'osservazione della periferia attraverso gli strumenti epistemologici della lentezza e del cammino. Inoltre, i due percorsi italiani a ridosso della tangenziale romana sono avvicinati alle esperienze artistiche di peregrinazione attorno alla tangenziale londinese di Iain Sinclair, come racconto di viaggio ( London Orbital: a Walk Around the M25, 2002) e Chris Petit, come film ( London Orbital, 2004).
Surfactant-aided sol-gel synthesis of TiO2–MgO nanocomposite and their photocatalytic azo dye degradation activity
Authors: Sharma Ajit K , Lee Byeong-Kyu
Published: March 2016

In this work, a surfactant-aided TiO2–MgO nanocomposite (Ti-M-S) was successfully synthesized by a sol-gel process with the aid of sodium dodecyl sulfate as a structure-directing anionic surfactant. The results demonstrated the effectiveness of this approach for controlling both the amount and the distribution of MgO nanoparticles within the TiO2 framework after calcination. The photocatalytic activity of the synthesized nanocomposite for degradation of methyl orange (MO) and methylene blue (MB) dyes used as a model wastewater contaminant was investigated under visible light irradiation. The synthesized nanocomposite was systematically characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM/EDX) analysis. The decolorization results revealed that the Ti-M-S1 (with an anionic surfactant: sodium dodecyl sulfate) and Ti-M-S2 (with a non-ionic surfactant: Triton X-100) nanocomposites showed much more photocatalytic activity than the pure TiO2 did under visible light. MB and MO dye removal efficiencies of 82.4% and 77.8 %, respectively, were achieved by Ti-M-S1 (1%) within about 120 min and no further changes in the uptake were observed up to 24 h. This confirmed the suitability of the synthesized nanocomposite for use as a photocatalyst under visible light with the added advantage of increasing the versatility of potential applications for TiO2 photocatalysts.
Cumulative Stress and Substance Use From Early Adolescence to Emerging Adulthood
Authors: Hoffmann John P.
Published: March 2016

Building on models of the stress process, this study examined the consequences for binge alcohol use, marijuana use, and other illicit substance use of cumulative levels of stressful life events using data from the Family Health Study (FHS), an 8-year panel data set ( N = 840). The results of a latent trajectory analysis indicated a positive association between cumulative stressors and involvement in substance use during this period of the life course, especially among early adolescent users. However, there were no identifiable effects on adolescent-limited users. Implications of the results for theory and policy are discussed.
Subjective Lexical Characteristics: Comparing Ratings of Members of the Target Population and Doctors for Words Stemming from a Medical Context
Authors: Robert Christelle , Cousson-Gélie Florence , Faurous William , Mathey Stéphanie
Published: March 2016

The present study investigated the subjective lexical characteristics of words stemming from a medical context by comparing estimations of the target population (age range = 46–89) and of doctors. A total of 58 members of the target population and 22 oncologists completed measures of subjective frequency and emotional valence for words previously collected in interviews of announcement of cancer diagnosis. The members of the target population also completed tests of word definitions, without and within context. As expected, most of the words were rated less familiar, more negative and as generating more intense emotions to the target population than to the doctors. Moreover, only a few words were correctly defined by the target population. Adding a context helped the participants to define most of the words correctly. Importantly, we identified words that were rated familiar by the patients although they did not know their exact meaning. Overall, these results highlight the importance of taking into account the subjective lexical characteristics of words used in specific contexts.
Bayesian Approach for the Measurement of Tourism Performance
Authors: Assaf A. George , Oh Haemoon , Tsionas Mike
Published: March 2016

Despite its rapid growth across several social science disciplines, the use of the Bayesian approach to measure tourism performance has yet to gain strong attention in tourism research. This article reviews the foundation of the Bayesian approach and discusses its benefits and the flexibility it provides in the estimation of highly complicated performance models. With the lack of tourism studies focusing on the Bayesian approach, we take first a general approach and provide a description of the Bayesian approach, illustrating its advantages, and its key differences from the frequentist approach. We then discuss its specific benefits in the measurement of tourism performance within the context of stochastic frontier (SF) models. We introduce several advanced versions of SF where the use of the Bayesian approach becomes necessary. We also provide simulation evidence about the advantages of the Bayesian approach and discuss how it can be used to estimate various SF models.
Extending Our Understanding of Burnout and Its Associated Factors
Authors: Spinelli William M. , Fernstrom Karl M. , Galos Dylan L. , Britt Heather R.
Published: March 2016

Burnout has been identified as an occupational hazard in the helping professions for many years and is often overlooked, as health-care systems strive to improve cost and quality. The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and the Areas of Worklife Survey (AWS) are tools for assessing burnout prevalence and its associated factors. We describe how we used them in outpatient clinics to assess burnout for multiple job types. Traditional statistical techniques and seemingly unrelated regression were used to describe the sample and evaluate the association between work life domains and burnout. Of 838 eligible participants, 467 (55.7%) were included for analysis. Burnout prevalence varied across three job categories: providers (37.5%), clinical assistants (24.6%), and other staff (28.0%). It was not related to age, gender, or years of tenure but was lower in part-time workers (24.6%) than in full-time workers (33.9%). Analysis of the AWS subscales identified organizational correlates of burnout. Accurately identifying and defining the operative system factors associated with burnout will make it possible to create successful interventions. Using the MBI and the AWS together can highlight the relationship between system work experiences and burnout.
Beyond Copying
Authors: Wang Ying , McBride Catherine
Published: March 2016

This study assessed the effects of three intervention programs for Chinese literacy development in kindergartners: the copying (Copy) program; a combined program of copying and Pinyin knowledge (Copy + Pinyin); and a combined program of copying and morphological awareness (Copy + MA). Ninety-seven kindergarteners aged 5–7 years in mainland China (30 in Copy, 32 in Copy + Pinyin, 35 in Copy + MA) participated. Thirty untrained children served as a control group. Children were tested on nonverbal IQ, morphological awareness, orthographic awareness, phonological awareness, invented Pinyin spelling, word reading and writing skills in Chinese. After an eight-week intervention period, children in all three intervention groups progressed significantly more than the control group on literacy skills. Furthermore, the combined program of copying and Pinyin knowledge yielded significantly greater improvement in invented Pinyin spelling than the Copy and control groups. Finally, the combined program of copying and morphological awareness yielded greater improvement in word reading and writing, as well as significantly higher orthographic awareness than other groups. These findings suggest the utility of multi-component interventions for early Chinese literacy learning. That the combined program particularly benefited children’s reading and writing skills at the beginning level suggests that both rote practice and analytic strategies should be emphasized in kindergartens and primary schools in order to produce greater improvements in Chinese literacy acquisition.