bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disability as Constructed Difference: A Literature Review and Research Agenda for Management and Organization Studies
Authors: Williams Jannine , Mavin Sharon
Published: February 2012

Disability theory and disabled people's voices have remained marginal in attempts to include a wider range of theoretical perspectives and voices in organization studies. This includes studies of the normative assumptions underpinning socially constructed categories of difference. This paper addresses this gap by reviewing the literature on social categories of difference, intersectional studies and studies across human resource management and diversity literatures. The argument here is that, while research has begun to move from an individualized discourse of disability, disability remains inadequately theorized as a constructed difference. The paper reviews the disability studies literature to identify the relevance of conceptualizing disability for work organizations, problematizes the concepts of disability and impairment and differentiates competing discourses of disability. The contribution of this paper is threefold. First, it offers an alternative social interpretation discourse which argues that disability is constructed as a negated difference through assumed ableism, which is a normative expectation of non‐disability. Second, it presents impairment effects as legitimate organizing requirements rather than individualized problems. The paper argues impairment effects, the effects of bodily and cognitive variation, have legitimate implications for how disabled people negotiate organizing contexts. Third, it develops a disability studies lens to advance theoretical approaches to the study of social categories of difference in the field of management and organization studies.
Ciliary neurotrophic factor stimulates tyrosine hydroxylase activity
Authors: Shi Xiao , Woodward William R. , Habecker Beth A.
Published: February 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 700–704.

Tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) is the rate‐limiting enzyme in norepinephrine synthesis, and its expression and activity are regulated by many factors in sympathetic neurons. Cytokines that act through gp130, such as ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) decrease norepinephrine production in sympathetic neurons by suppressing TH mRNA and stimulating degradation of TH protein, leading to the loss of enzyme. Their effect on the activity of TH is unclear, but recent in vivo observations suggest that cytokines may stimulate TH activity. We investigated this issue by quantifying TH protein levels and activity in cultured sympathetic neurons. We also examined the state of TH phosphorylation on serine 31 and 40, sites known to affect TH activity and degradation. We found that CNTF, acting through gp130, stimulated the rate of l‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine production while at the same time decreasing TH enzyme levels, thereby increasing the specific activity of the enzyme. We also found that phosphorylation of TH on Ser31 was increased, and phosphorylation on Ser40 was decreased, after four days of CNTF exposure. Our data are consistent with previous findings that Ser31 phosphorylation stimulates TH activity, whereas Ser40 phosphorylation can target TH for proteasomal degradation.
Selection on age at first and at last reproduction in the long‐lived Alpine Swift Apus melba
Authors: TETTAMANTI FEDERICO , WITVLIET WILLEM , BIZE PIERRE
Published: February 2012

The way an organism spreads its reproduction over time is defined as a life‐history trait, and selection is expected to favour life‐history traits associated with the highest fitness return. We use a long‐term dataset of 277 life histories to investigate the shape and strength of selection acting on the age at first reproduction and at last reproduction in the long‐lived Alpine Swift. Both traits were under strong directional selection, but in opposite directions, with selection favouring birds starting their reproductive career early and being able to reproduce for longer. There was also evidence for stabilising selection acting on both traits, suggesting that individuals should nonetheless refrain from reproducing in their first 2 years of life (i.e. when inexperienced), and that reproducing after 7 years of age had little effect on lifetime fitness, probably due to senescence.
Descartes's account of indifference
Authors: GILBY EMMA
Published: February 2012

This article considers Descartes's statements on the ‘liberty of indifference’, where indifference is understood as there being, at any one moment, alternative paths that one might take in life. I suggest that Descartes is hugely preoccupied with how we can hold onto more than one idea at the same time, and I pay close literary attention to the ways in which Descartes's stated goals of clarity and firmness interact with this philosophical interest in indifference and vacillation. I contend that we need to identify in Descartes a fascination with the complexity of mental states, and to rethink the account generally given of Descartes's thoughts on indifference.
The practice of surrogacy in New Zealand
Authors: Anderson Lynley , Snelling Jeanne , Tomlins‐Jahnke Huia
Published: February 2012

Background

Commercial surrogacy is prohibited in New Zealand by the Human Assisted Reproductive Technology Act 2004 (HART Act). However, altruistic clinic‐assisted surrogacy is permitted. Couples wishing to attempt altruistic surrogacy must apply for approval to a statutorily appointed ethics committee. One of seven principles that underpin the HART Act stipulates that the needs, values and beliefs of Maori (NZ's indigenous population) should be considered and treated with respect.

Aim

This paper reviews the outcomes of surrogacy applications since the HART Act was established and the uptake of surrogacy by Maori.

Methods

The authors examined the demographic data provided to the ethics committee by way of surrogacy applications and the outcome data provided by fertility clinics. This paper reviews the outcomes for surrogacy applications: the number accepted/declined, the number of live births, those applications discontinued and uptake by Maori.

Results

Of 104 applications for surrogacy between 2005 and 2010, 4 (3.8%) were declined. By July 2011, of 100 approved, there have been 26 (26%) live births; 52 (52%) were discontinued, and 22 (22%) remain ongoing. Maori are much less likely to utilise surrogacy. Of the 104 original applications, 9 (8.6%) Maori women were willing to act as a surrogate, and 2 (1.9%) were intended mothers. 7 (6.7%) Maori were partners of a surrogate, with 2 (1.9%) intending mothers having Maori partners.

Conclusions

The process of surrogacy applications is comprehensive and robust, resulting in few being declined. Further research is required to discover why applications are discontinued and why, despite explicit attempts to meet the needs of Maori, few utilise surrogacy.
The Tyranny of Meta‐analysis and the Misuse of Randomized Controlled Trials in Maternity Care
Authors: Klein Michael C.
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Recent meta‐analyses of key areas in maternity care have covered home birth and epidural analgesia. In each of these cases serious issues have arisen from the use of subjective inclusion and exclusion criteria, heterogeneity of included studies, and inclusion of studies that were conducted in settings that were not representative of usual maternity care. This latter flaw is especially notable for early epidural analgesia, where study environments with very low cesarean section rates are included. Such study settings lack external validity and have raised concerns about the political uses of meta‐analysis. For a meta‐analysis to be useful, the included studies must be broadly representative of the way that maternity care is carried out in usual birth environments. (BIRTH 39:1 March 2012)
Immunoisolation of Islets in High Guluronic Acid Barium‐Alginate Microcapsules Does Not Improve Graft Outcome at the Subcutaneous Site
Authors: Kerby Alan , Bohman Sara , Westberg Henrik , Jones Peter , King Aileen
Published: February 2012

The survival and function of alginate microencapsulated islets is suboptimal when transplanted to the intraperitoneal site of diabetic animals. The large capacity and convenience of the subcutaneous site make it an appropriate and attractive alternative for microencapsulated grafts. Nonencapsulated and high guluronic acid barium‐alginate microencapsulated islets were transplanted to the intraperitoneal and subcutaneous sites of diabetic mice. Microencapsulation improved graft success up to 28 days at the intraperitoneal site but not at the subcutaneous site. Samples of microencapsulated islets transplanted into normoglycemic mice confirmed that insulin secretion, insulin content, and adenosine triphosphate content were reduced more significantly in subcutaneous graft islets than intraperitoneal graft islets after 7 days. In addition, a greater proportion of dead cells were observed in the subcutaneous graft islets than in intraperitoneal graft islets after 28 days. We conclude that using alginate microencapsulated islets transplanted to the unmodified subcutaneous site is insufficient to reverse the diabetic state. This finding is likely to be related to the inability of the site to support islet function and viability.
OPTIMIZATION OF SOME HEAVY METALS BIOSORPTION BY REPRESENTATIVE EGYPTIAN MARINE ALGAE1
Authors: Elrefaii Abdelmonem H. , Sallam Lotfy A. , Hamdy Abdelhamid A. , Ahmed Eman F.
Published: February 2012

Marine algae—as inexpensive and renewable natural biomass—have attracted the attention of many investigators to be used to preconcentrate and biosorb many heavy metal ions. Impressed by this concept, the metal uptake capacity of Egyptian marine algae was examined using representatives of green and brown algae, namely, Ulva lactuca L. and Sargassum latifolium (Turner) C. Agardh, respectively. The biosorption efficiencies of Cu2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cd2+, Hg2+, Ag2+, and Pb2+ ions seem to depend on the type of the algae used as well as the conditions under which the uptake processes were conducted. It was demonstrated that a pH range of 7.5–8.8 was optimum for the removal of the tested metals. Similarly, the uptake process was markedly accelerated during the first 2 h using relatively low metal level and sufficient amounts of the dried powdered tested algae.
The Effect of Different Fabrication Steps on the Marginal Adaptation of Two Types of Glass‐Infiltrated Ceramic Crown Copings Fabricated by CAD/CAM Technology
Authors: Alghazzawi Tariq F. , Liu Perng‐Ru , Essig Milton E.
Published: February 2012

Purpose: Marginal adaptation is an important factor affecting the longevity of all‐ceramic restorations, although the effects of different fabrication steps on marginal adaptation at various stages of fabrication are not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to assess with an in vitro model whether In‐Ceram alumina (IA) or In‐Ceram zirconia (IZ) copings produced by the CAD/CAM method would be clinically acceptable, and to evaluate the effect of each fabrication step (post‐milling, post‐trimming, and post‐glass infiltration) on the marginal discrepancy of the coping.

Materials and Methods: A melamine tooth was prepared, duplicated, poured with inlay wax, and then cast with metal to fabricate a master die. An InLab 3D system was used to scan the master die and to design and mill the copings. Thirty IA and IZ copings each were developed with thicknesses of 0.6 mm and a 30‐μm thick computer luting space. Epoxy resin replicas of the master die were fabricated, and the vertical and horizontal marginal discrepancies were measured using a Micro‐Vu optical microscope at three stages of the fabrication (post‐milling, post‐trimming, post‐infiltration). One‐way ANOVA was used to analyze the data between the three stages of fabrication for each marginal discrepancy, and a t‐test was used to compare vertical and horizontal marginal discrepancies (after glass infiltration) between IZ and IA copings

Results: There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the vertical marginal discrepancies (μm) between IA (36 ± 14) and IZ (40 ± 14) copings after glass infiltration. ANOVA (comparing three stages within horizontal marginal discrepancy for IZ copings) showed that post‐milling (40 ± 26) > post‐trimming (23 ± 11) = post‐infiltration (19 ± 13). ANOVA (comparing three stages within vertical marginal discrepancy for IZ copings) showed that post‐milling (53 ± 12) = post‐trimming (47 ± 13) > post‐infiltration (36 ± 14). ANOVA (comparing three stages within horizontal marginal discrepancy for IA copings) showed that post‐milling (52 ± 28) > post‐trimming (30 ± 16) > post‐infiltration (30 ± 16). ANOVA (comparing three stages within vertical marginal discrepancy for IA copings) showed that post‐milling (54 ± 13) = post‐trimming (56 ± 26) > post‐infiltration (40 ± 14).

Conclusion: There was no significant difference in the marginal adaptation of both material copings. After the trimming process, the glass infiltration firing cycle improved the vertical marginal discrepancy for both IZ and IA copings. Clinical implications. IA and IZ copings fabricated by CAD/CAM technology have an acceptable marginal fit as documented in the literature, and the glass infiltration process improves the marginal fit after machining.
Mechanical Properties of Polyamide Versus Different PMMA Denture Base Materials
Authors: Ucar Yurdanur , Akova Tolga , Aysan Ipek
Published: February 2012

Purpose: Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) resins are the most commonly used denture materials; however, they do not have a high flexural strength (FS). This study aimed to compare the mechanical properties of a polyamide‐based, injection‐molded denture material (Deflex) with another injection‐molded PMMA base material (SR‐Ivocap) and a conventional compression‐molded PMMA (Meliodent).

Materials and Methods: Flexural properties (deflection, bending strength, and bending modulus) of denture base materials were evaluated (n = 10). Specimens meeting International Standards Organization (ISO) specification number 20795–1 requirements were prepared (65 × 10 × 3 mm3). A three‐point bending test was carried out on an Instron testing machine at a 5 mm/min crosshead speed. The Knoop hardness test was used to compare microhardness values. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, followed by REGWQ.

Results: The group results, standard deviations, and statistical differences (p < 0.01) for Deflex, SR‐Ivocap, and Meliodent were (A) flexural strength (MPa: 78.3 ± 1.0,a 69.8 ± 1.4,b 81.1 ± 1a), (B) flexural modulus (GPa: 0.70 ± 0.13,a 0.85 ± 0.27,a 1.70 ± 0.23b), (C) Knoop Hardness (kg/cm2: 7.5 ± 1.0,a 13.5 ± 1.4,b 16.9 ± 1.0c). Different superscript letters indicate significant difference. All Meliodent specimens fractured during flexural testing, but no Deflex specimens did.

Conclusions: While polyamide denture material produced good fracture resistance, its modulus is not yet sufficiently high to be equal to standard PMMA materials. Clinical Implications. Polyamide has some attractive advantages, but will require modification to produce consistently better properties than current PMMA materials.
A New, Simple Implant‐Level Impression Technique for Dental Implants in Limited Interproximal Space
Authors: Saboury Aboulfazl , Hadi Alireza
Published: February 2012

Making an implant‐level impression when implants are placed in limited interproximal space or compromising angulations can be a time‐consuming procedure. This article presents a new method for developing a master cast for two implants clinically placed convergent and very close to each other. The technique consists of making an implant‐level impression using a transfer jig fabricated on dental abutments.
The Egyptian revolution: A triumph of poetry
Authors: SAAD REEM
Published: February 2012

The 11‐day interval between the fall of Tunisia's Ben Ali and the onset of the Egyptian revolution is now almost forgotten. These days were important mainly as the time when inspiration was nurtured and the big question on people's minds was, could a revolution happen in Egypt? Never before had this question been debated so intensely. I look at two contrasting ways of addressing it. On the one hand, seasoned political analysts (mostly political scientists) were predominantly saying no, Egypt is not Tunisia. On the other hand, activists were talking dreams and poetry, especially invoking lines from two famous Arab poets on the power of popular will and the inevitability of revolution. In this case, poetry prevailed. It was not only a source of inspiration but also carried more explanatory power than much social science. Here I document this moment and pay tribute to poetry and dreams. [Egypt, revolution, Tunisia, poetry, experts]
Running amok or just sleeping rough? Long‐grass camping and the politics of care in northern Australia
Authors: FISHER DANIEL
Published: February 2012

In this article, I analyze efforts to remove Aboriginal people from town camps and public parks in Darwin, capital of Australia's Northern Territory. In early 2003, the territory government enjoined the corporate representative of Darwin's traditional owners to assert their prior title, thereby policing and reimagining public space by reference to this Aboriginal corporate custody. Public discourse, as reflected in news accounts, framed this move as engendering conflict, pitting one Aboriginal “mob” (owners) against another (campers), dividing those amenable to corporate recognition from those who more starkly confronted settler Australian sensibilities and suburban development. Here I explore forms of intra‐Aboriginal relationship that these tabloid accounts ignored and describe how such relationships have mediated, if not mitigated, paradoxical features of Australian neoliberal governmentality. [Indigenous Australia, Aboriginal homelessness, anthropology of the state, neoliberal governmentality, citizenship and sovereignty]
Continuous Regional Myocardial Blood Flow Measurement: Validation of a Near‐Infrared Laser Doppler Device in a Porcine Model
Authors: BIERBACH BENJAMIN , SCHEEWE JENS , DERFUSS THOMAS , KRUG ALFONS , SCHRAMM RENÉ , DAHM MANFRED , KUROCZYNSKI WLODZIMIERZ , KEMPSKI OLIVER , HORSTICK GEORG
Published: February 2012

Please cite this paper as: Bierbach B, Scheewe J, Derfuss T, Krug A, Schramm R, Dahm M, Kuroczynski W, Kempski O, Horstick G. Continuous regional myocardial blood flow measurement: validation of a near‐infrared laser Doppler device in a porcine model. Microcirculation 19: 485–493, 2012.

Objective:  RMBF measurement is a major concern in various clinical and experimental settings, but no validated device for RMBF is currently available.

Methods:  An LVP‐triggered laser Doppler to measure RMBF was validated by simultaneous fluorescent MS RMBF in a porcine LAD flow reduction model (n = 10 pigs). The laser probe was positioned on the left ventricle’s anterior wall. LAD blood flow reduction was achieved by a shaft‐driven occluder positioned proximal to the transit‐time flow meter measuring coronary blood flow. RMBF was measured at baseline; after the reduction of LAD blood flow to 70% and 30% of baseline; at 20 and 120 minutes of reperfusion; and, finally, 15 minutes after LAD occlusion.

Results:  Laser Doppler RMBF (LDU) correlated strongly with MS RMBF under all tested conditions: baseline (epicardial 194.7 ± 41.9, endocardial 130.2 ± 29.2); 70% baseline‐flow (epicardial 160.4 ± 27.7, endocardial 112.1 ± 15.1); 30% baseline‐flow (epicardial 44.3 ± 5.5, endocardial 32.9 ± 9); 20 minutes reperfusion (epicardial 175.8 ± 33.6, endocardial 126.5 ± 30); 120 minutes reperfusion (epicardial 146.3 ± 31.1, endocardial 107.1 ± 29.7); and complete LAD occlusion (epicardial 10.5 ± 5.8 endocardial 1.4 ± 0.3) (r = 0.986–0.962, p < 0.001).

Conclusions:  This new blood pressure waveform‐triggered laser Doppler probe is able to measure RMBF at different depths online in the beating heart.
Comparison of New Ampac Bags and FireDebrisPAK® Bags as Packaging for Fire Debris Analysis
Authors: Borusiewicz Rafal
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  The FireDebrisPAK® bags that were produced by Kapak were considered to be one of the best containers for fire debris. Kapak bags were discontinued; however, from July 2010, Ampac is offering a new packaging material. The aim of the presented research was to compare the properties (durability, background interferences, and permeability) of Kapak bags and packaging material offered by Ampac. The analysis was conducted by passive adsorption from the headspace with subsequent thermal desorption and analysis by GC‐MS. The results proved that the properties of the compared materials are similar. Their greatest advantage is that they are impermeable for components of flammable liquids, so there is no danger of losing analytes or cross‐contamination. Their one significant drawback is that they should not be exposed to temperatures above 80°C. At this temperature, they become soft, their inner layer is compromised (becomes sticky), and they emit some volatile organic compounds. Among them, there are compounds that constitute the components of some of flammable liquids.
Validation Study of KPICS SpermFinder™ by NicheVision Forensics, LLC for the Identification of Human Spermatozoa*
Authors: Mitchell Angela
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Microscopic analysis for the identification of spermatozoa is commonly performed during the forensic examination of sexual assault evidence. Two widely utilized methods for the confirmation of the presence of spermatozoa are visualization of the cells via phase‐contrast microscopy with wet mounted samples and bright field microscopy with histologically stained samples. The KPICS SpermFinder™ by NicheVision Forensics, LLC accelerates this time‐consuming process via an automated microscope with an algorithm designed to locate spermatozoa on a Christmas tree histologically stained microscope slide. Upon a qualified scientist’s review of the generated data, the KPICS SpermFinder™ was able to locate spermatozoa, typically finding on average 106.28% ± 115.37% more spermatozoa than with manual examinations. The KPICS SpermFinder™ provided the location of identified cells with reproducible results.
Maturation of alveolar bone following implantation of an rhGDF‐5/PLGA composite into 1‐wall intra‐bony defects in dogs: 24‐week histometric observations
Authors: Park Jung‐Chul , Wikesjö Ulf M. E. , Koo Ki‐Tae , Lee Jung‐Seok , Kim Yong‐Tae , Pippig Susanne D. , Bastone Patrizia , Kim Chang‐Sung , Kim Chong‐Kwan
Published: February 2012

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate long‐term (24 weeks) alveolar bone maturation following surgical application of recombinant human growth/differentiation factor‐5 (rhGDF‐5) in an injectable poly‐lactide‐co‐glycolide‐acid (PLGA) composite carrier using an established periodontal defect model.

Methods

Routine, bilateral, 4 × 5 mm (width × depth), 1‐wall, critical‐size, intra‐bony periodontal defects were surgically created at the 2nd and 4th mandibular premolar teeth in 10 Beagle dogs. The animals were randomized to receive (split‐mouth design; defect sites in the same jaw quadrant getting the same treatment) rhGDF‐5/PLGA high dose (188 μg/defect) versus sham‐surgery control (5 animals), and rhGDF‐5/PLGA low dose (37 μg/defect) versus carrier control (5 animals). The animals were euthanized for histometric analysis following a 24‐week healing interval.

Results

Clinical healing was uneventful. The rhGDF‐5 high dose significantly increased bone formation compared with controls in terms of bone area (p < 0.05), and a high degree of bone maturation was observed in the rhGDF‐5/PLGA high dose group. Root resorption/ankylosis or other aberrant healing events were not observed.

Conclusion

The rhGDF‐5/PLGA appears to support alveolar bone healing/regeneration and the rhGDF‐5/PLGA high dose uniquely increased maturation of the regenerated bone.
Stage‐dependent physiological responses in a butterfly cause non‐additive effects on phenology
Authors: Briscoe Natalie J. , Porter Warren P. , Sunnucks Paul , Kearney Michael R.
Published: February 2012

Studies illustrating climate‐induced shifts in phenology typically focus on the timing of a single lifecycle stage. In contrast, species’ responses to climate change are likely to be complex and constrained by interactions and tradeoffs across the lifecycle. We characterized the thermal sensitivity of egg, larval and pupal stages of a native Australian butterfly and then integrated these responses to predict sensitivity of emergence time, survival, and feeding performance on oviposition date and climate. Thermal physiology varied among lifecycle stages and between sexes, with the development rate of eggs, first instar larvae, and pupae being the most sensitive to temperature. As lifecycle stages have different thermal physiologies, the environment experienced by a given stage depends in a complex way on the experience of previous stages. Our simulations indicate that oviposition date strongly influences time spent in each lifecycle‐stage, as well as performance. Under a high emissions climate warming scenario (CSIRO Mk 3.5 climate model, high emissions SRES marker scenario A1F1, and a moderate rate of global warming), we predict development times to decrease by 38 days by 2070. Our analysis illustrates how differences in thermal physiology across the lifecycle may result in non‐additive effects on phenology which, in turn, may constrain species’ responses to global warming. These results highlight the need to view shifts in phenology in the context of an organism's entire lifecycle.
Dental postoperative bleeding complications in patients with suspected and documented liver disease
Authors: Hong CH , Scobey MW , Napenas JJ , Brennan MT , Lockhart PB
Published: February 2012

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 661–666

Objectives:  The aims of this study were to determine the frequency of bleeding complications following dental procedures in patients with known or suspected chronic liver disease and whether international normalized ratio (INR) determination could aid in predicting bleeding complications in these patients.

Patients and Method:  We identified 90 patients (mean age: 51 ± 9 years) in this retrospective chart review. Sixty‐nine patients had a known history of chronic liver disease and 21 had suspected chronic liver disease. Descriptive statistics were determined. Independent sample t‐test and one‐way variance test were utilized for continuous variables and chi‐square test for dichotomous variables.

Results:  The mean INR value for all patients was 1.2 ± 0.3. The INR value was significantly associated with the diagnosis of liver cirrhosis, the diagnoses of Hepatitis B and C together, the presence of ascites alone, and the number of clinical signs and symptoms (i.e. ascites, jaundice and encephalopathy) present. Nine patients with INR values between 1.5 and 2 underwent invasive dental procedures without postoperative bleeding complications.

Conclusion:  There were no episodes of postoperative bleeding in patients. The findings suggest that clinicians should not rely solely on an INR value to predict post‐procedure bleeding in patients with liver disease.
Is podoplanin expression associated with the proliferative activity of ameloblastomas?
Authors: Tjioe KC , Oliveira DT , Soares CT , Lauris JRP , Damante JH
Published: February 2012

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 673–679

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between podoplanin expression and proliferative activity of ameloblastomas and remnants of the odontogenic epithelium from dental follicles (DF) of unerupted teeth.

Subjects and methods:  Thirty‐three paraffin‐embedded ameloblastomas and thirty‐two DF obtained of unerupted teeth were analyzed by immunohistochemistry using anti‐human podoplanin and anti‐Ki‐67 antibodies. Podoplanin expression in odontogenic epithelial cells was evaluated using a scoring method, and the Ki‐67 labeling index was determined by the percentage of positive odontogenic cells.

Results:  All ameloblastomas displayed podoplanin expression in ameloblast‐like cells of the epithelial islands. Membranous expression of podoplanin in ameloblastomas was stronger than in the remnants of odontogenic epithelium (P = 0.001). Statistically significant difference was observed between the cytoplasmic and membranous expression of podoplanin in the remnants of odontogenic epithelium (P = 0.001). The index of epithelial odontogenic proliferative activity, verified by Ki‐67 expression, was higher in ameloblastomas vs remnants of odontogenic epithelium (P < 0.001). No statistically significant correlation was identified between podoplanin and the cellular odontogenic proliferative activity in ameloblastomas and DF (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:  These results provide evidence that there is no connection between podoplanin immunostaining and odontogenic cellular proliferative activity and suggest a role for membranous podoplanin expression in the local invasion of ameloblastomas.
The role of oxytocin and oxytocin receptor gene variants in childhood‐onset aggression
Authors: Malik A. I. , Zai C. C. , Abu Z. , Nowrouzi B. , Beitchman J. H.
Published: February 2012

Aggressive antisocial behaviours are the most common reasons why adolescents are referred to mental health clinics. Antisocial behaviours are costly in social and financial terms. The aetiology of aggressive behaviours is unknown but growing evidence suggests it is heritable, and certain genetic variants have been implicated as contributing factors. The purpose of this study was to determine whether genes regulating the hormone oxytocin (OXT) were associated with aggressive antisocial behaviour. The case‐control study sample consisted of 160 cases of children displaying extreme, persistent and pervasive aggressive behaviour. This case sample was compared with 160 adult controls. We used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to determine the genotype for three oxytocin gene (OXT) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs): rs3761248, rs4813625 and rs877172; and five oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) SNPs: rs6770632, rs11476, rs1042778, rs237902 and rs53576. Genotypic analyses were performed using stata, while differences in haplotypic and allelic frequencies were analysed using Unphased. We also performed within‐case analyses (n = 236 aggressive cases) examining genotypic and allelic associations with callous‐unemotional (CU) scores (as measured by the psychopathic screening device). OXTR SNPs rs6770632 and rs1042778 may be associated with extreme, persistent and pervasive aggressive behaviours in females and males, respectively. These and haplotype results suggest gender‐specific effects of SNPs. No significant differences were detected with respect to CU behaviours. These results may help to elucidate the biochemical pathways associated with aggressive behaviours, which may aid in the development of novel medications.
EFFECTS OF SURGICAL IMPLANTS ON HIGH‐FIELD MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGES OF THE NORMAL CANINE STIFLE
Authors: David F. H. , Grierson J. , Lamb C. R.
Published: February 2012

To determine the effect of surgical implants on the depiction of canine stifle anatomy in magnetic resonance (MR) images, three canine cadaver limbs were imaged at 1.5 T before and after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO), tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA), and extra‐capsular stabilization (ECS), respectively. Susceptibility artifacts associated with implants were identified in MR images as a signal void and/or signal misregistration, which obscured or distorted the anatomy. Using the preoperative images as a reference, articular structures of the stifle in postoperative images were graded using an ordinal scale to describe to what degree each anatomic structure could be evaluated for clinical purposes. The TPLO implant, which contains ferromagnetic stainless steel, produced marked susceptibility artifacts that obscured or distorted most stifle anatomy. The titanium alloy TTA implants and the stainless steel crimps used for ECS produced susceptibility artifacts that mainly affected the lateral aspect of the stifle, but allowed the cruciate ligaments and medial meniscus to be evaluated satisfactorily. Susceptibility artifact was significantly less marked in images obtained using turbo spin‐echo (TSE) sequences than in sequences employing spectral fat saturation. Clinical MR imaging of canine stifles containing certain metallic implants is feasible using TSE sequences without fat saturation.
Painting pictures and playing musical instruments: Change in participation and relationship to health in older women
Authors: Liddle Jeannine LM , Parkinson Lynne , Sibbritt David W
Published: February 2012

Aim:  To explore how changed participation in painting pictures or playing a musical instrument is related to change in physical and mental health in older women.

Method:  Women enrolled in the 1921–1926 birth cohort of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health were surveyed in 2005 and 2008. Changed participation in painting pictures or playing a musical instrument was considered in relation to changes in social activity, social support, health status and health‐related quality of life.

Results:  Data were available for 5058 women. Improvements in instrumental activities of daily living (odds ratio (OR) 1.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.0–1.2; P = 0.004) and role limitations due to emotional factors (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.0–2.5; P = 0.002) were associated with starting participation. Decline in mental health‐related quality of life (OR 4.1, 95% CI 2.3–7.2; P < 0.0001) was associated with stopping.

Conclusion:  Changed participation was associated with change in functional capacity and tied to emotional well‐being.
A retrospective study of diabetic foot ulcers treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy
Authors: Bishop Alexandra J , Mudge Elizabeth
Published: February 2012

A retrospective review of patient medical records was conducted to assess what factors influence the outcomes of diabetic foot ulcers treated with hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy. Patients referred to the Diving Diseases Research Centre for HBO therapy for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers during a 2‐year period were included in this study. Data collected from 30 sets of patient records were entered into SPSS and statistical analysis was undertaken to investigate whether any underlying pathologies or confounding factors appeared to influence patient outcome. A 73·3% of patients achieved a successful outcome of partial healing, major amputation no longer required, amputation level lower than anticipated prior to HBO or healing at the end of HBO therapy and 70% remained successful 3 months later. A 13·3% of patients were lost to follow‐up at 3 months and one patient (3·3%) had a major amputation. Steroid therapy, peripheral vascular disease, previous minor amputation, type of diabetes, previous HBO therapy, larvae therapy, the use of interactive dressings and haemoglobin A1c levels were all observed to have had a significant relationship with patient outcome (P < 0·05). These results were compared with data from other published research conducted in this area on similar patient groups. A larger scale study focussing on the factors found to be significant in this study is recommended. An improvement of patient documentation would allow patient outcomes to be more consistently monitored in the future.
Expenditure of chronic venous leg ulcer management in German primary care: results from a population‐based study
Authors: Müller‐Bühl Uwe , Leutgeb Rüdiger , Bungartz Jessica , Szecsenyi Joachim , Laux Gunter
Published: February 2012

The aim of the study was to determine the demand on health service utilisation and to estimate the therapeutical costs caused by patients with chronic leg ulcer (CLU) in German primary care. A population‐based case–control study was conducted using electronic medical records of 116 059 patients extracted from the CONTENT primary care database of Heidelberg, Germany, between April 2007 and March 2010. The drug and non drug prescription rates among patients with CLU were analysed by means of a unified German identification key and compared with those of patients with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) without CLU. In the 3‐year‐contact group, CLU patients had significantly more patient–doctor encounters (55·9 versus 40·3; p < 0·0001), more referrals to home‐care services (6·12 versus 3·08; p < 0·0001), and more admissions to hospitals (0·9 versus 0·4; p < 0·0001) than CVI patients, but no difference in referrals to specialists. The annual treatment costs for drugs and non drugs in CLU patients were substantially higher than in CVI patients (1645·75 € versus 1188·17 €; p < 0·0001). Wound dressings were identified as the most cost‐enlarging factor. Summarising, CLU patients in primary care settings place a higher demand on health service utilisation and need nearly one‐third higher therapeutical costs compared to venous patients without ulceration.
Emerging and second line therapies for the management of metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer: The Australian perspective
Authors: PARENTE Phillip , PARNIS Francis , GURNEY Howard
Published: February 2012

Since the establishment of docetaxel as first‐line chemotherapy for metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer significant advancements have been made in the management of this disease. Clinical trials have investigated agents for use prior to docetaxel, in combination with docetaxel and agents for second‐line treatment for patients who have progressed despite docetaxel. In addition, several new agents have been developed and clinically investigated in the fields of hormonal, cytotoxic, targeted and immune therapy, providing options either side of first‐line chemotherapy. As a result of this considerable research activity, three new therapies; cabazitaxel, sipuleucel‐T and abiraterone acetate, have each demonstrated improvement in overall survival in phase III trials and have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. With so many new therapies now available and in the pipeline, the management of metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer is undergoing a significant and positive change. This article discusses current and future options for second‐line therapy in metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer, providing insight into the potential roles of these new treatment options in the Australian clinical setting.
Importance of health literacy in oncology
Authors: KOAY Kelvin , SCHOFIELD Penelope , JEFFORD Michael
Published: February 2012

Health literacy refers to one's ability to obtain, process and understand health information and services to enable sound health decision‐making. This is an area of increasing importance due to the complexity of the health system, especially in the cancer setting. A certain level of health literacy is required for patients to fully understand health information and services to make sound decisions about their health care, including decisions about screening and treatment. Previous research has suggested that a significant proportion of the population may have limited health literacy. Suboptimal health literacy is an independent risk factor for poor health outcomes, including increased risk of hospitalization. Cancer patients with poor health literacy may have misconceptions about their disease and ineffective communication with their health professionals, leading to unnecessary interventions, under‐treatment or poor adherence to their treatment plans. In addition, cancer patients who have a poor understanding of their disease may experience greater anxiety and be more dissatisfied with their care. Various strategies have been suggested to assist cancer patients with low health literacy. However, more work needs to be done to support all cancer patients with varying levels of health literacy, thus enhancing health experiences and health outcomes.
Cost‐utility and budget impact analyses of gefitinib in second‐line treatment for advanced non‐small cell lung cancer from Thai payer perspective
Authors: THONGPRASERT Sumitra , TINMANEE Sirana , PERMSUWAN Unchalee
Published: February 2012

Aim:  To evaluate the cost utility and budget impact of second‐line gefitinib for non‐small cell lung cancer from a Thai payer perspective.

Methods:  A Markov model with three health states (pre‐progression, post‐progression and death) was constructed to estimate direct medical costs and outcomes comparing four treatment options, i.e., gefitinib, erlotinib, pemetrexed and docetaxel. The model followed patients for 2 years with discount rate of 3% annually. Clinical inputs and patients' characteristics were based on a randomized phase III trial (INTEREST). Costs were based on reference prices published by the Ministry of Public Health, Thailand, and other information related to treatment from expert opinion and presented in 2010. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed to determine the impact of model parameters on results.

Results:  In the base case model, gefitinib and erlotinib yielded equal quality‐adjusted life years (QALY) but 0.0140 and 0.0110 more QALY compared with docetaxel and pemetrexed, respectively. Total costs were 188 848 Baht (US$6237) for gefitinib, 196 313 Baht (US$6483) for docetaxel, 249 177 Baht (US$8229) for erlotinib and 275 303 Baht (US$9092) for pemetrexed. Drug acquisition contributed the greatest component. A series of sensitivity analyses demonstrated the robustness to various parameter variations except for docetaxel cost and duration of treatment. The budget impact analyses demonstrate the greater the percentage of substitution of gefitinib for docetaxel (ranging from 10–60%) the greater the cost saving.

Conclusion:  Gefitinib is a dominant cost saving strategy compared with docetaxel for the second‐line treatment of advanced NSCLC from the Thai payer perspective.
The Impact of Forest Disturbance on the Seasonal Foraging Ecology of a Critically Endangered African Primate
Authors: Bracebridge Claire E. , Davenport Tim R. , Marsden Stuart J.
Published: February 2012

Forest loss and fragmentation threaten many primates globally, and often leads to a reduction in food resources. During a 22‐mo period, the foraging ecology of the critically endangered kipunjiRungwecebus kipunjiwas studied in the heterogeneousRungwe–Livingstone forests, southwestTanzania, to identify periods of possible ecological stress, fallback foods used by the species, and the impact of forest disturbance on feeding resources. The studied group had a wide diet and was predominantly frugivorous. Fruit consumption was driven by fruit availability which peaked during the wet season, and dipped during the driest months. During this period, two fallback foods: mature leaves and pith were widely consumed, withMacaranga capensisan essential fallback species.αdiversity and evenness of diet was remarkably similar across months, but there was highβdiversity in diets at the cusp of wet and dry seasons, and during periods of low fruit availability. This suggests considerable dietary adaptability to fluctuating resources, which may act to buffer against further forest disturbance. Tree species associated with relatively undisturbed forest were significantly more important in the diet, especially in the dry season, than those of disturbed forests. Regeneration of key trees (determined through counting of seedlings and saplings in plots) appeared healthy except in two importantFicusspecies. Conservation management, while focusing on promoting old growth forest, should also consider populations of some important pioneer tree species such asMacaranga capensisboth inside the forest and in any reforestation schemes outside the species’ current area of occupancy.
Specification of Matrix Cleanup Goals in Fractured Porous Media
Authors: Rodríguez David J. , Kueper Bernard H.
Published: February 2012

Semianalytical transient solutions have been developed to evaluate what level of fractured porous media (e.g., bedrock or clay) matrix cleanup must be achieved in order to achieve compliance of fracture pore water concentrations within a specified time at specified locations of interest. The developed mathematical solutions account for forward and backward diffusion in a fractured porous medium where the initial condition comprises a spatially uniform, nonzero matrix concentration throughout the domain. Illustrative simulations incorporating the properties of mudstone fractured bedrock demonstrate that the time required to reach a desired fracture pore water concentration is a function of the distance between the point of compliance and the upgradient face of the domain where clean groundwater is inflowing. Shorter distances correspond to reduced times required to reach compliance, implying that shorter treatment zones will respond more favorably to remediation than longer treatment zones in which back‐diffusion dominates the fracture pore water response. For a specified matrix cleanup goal, compliance of fracture pore water concentrations will be reached sooner for decreased fracture spacing, increased fracture aperture, higher matrix fraction organic carbon, lower matrix porosity, shorter aqueous phase decay half‐life, and a higher hydraulic gradient. The parameters dominating the response of the system can be measured using standard field and laboratory techniques.
Supporting healthy eating practices in a forensic psychiatry rehabilitation setting
Authors: FORSYTH Nicky , ELMSLIE Jane , ROSS Maria
Published: February 2012

Aim:  To evaluate the confidence and education requirements of nursing staff to provide evidence‐based nutrition advice and practical assistance to patients of a healthy living programme in a forensic psychiatry rehabilitation unit.

Methods:  Participants completed semistructured interviews in pairs or individually to explore how their beliefs and attitudes about food and nutrition influenced their ability to support patients to plan and prepare healthy meals. Interview questions explored the nurses' perceptions about the nutrition education needs of patients, their own nutrition knowledge, their confidence to provide nutrition advice, previous nutrition training and their current need for further training. All participants also completed a nutrition knowledge questionnaire. Data from the Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire were summarised descriptively. Thematic analysis was used to identify the key themes that emerged from the interview transcripts.

Results:  Nine of eleven potential participants took part in the study. Four main themes emerged from the semistructured interviews: ‘knowledge and experience’, ‘barriers to change’, ‘realistic expectations’ and ‘reducing barriers’. Nine questionnaires were completed and returned (100% response rate). The average score was 50% (11/22). Scores ranged between 9 (41%) and 15 (68%). Three respondents scored less than 50%.

Conclusion:  This study highlights a need for dietitians in mental health settings to be involved not only with patient care but with staff education, to ensure that nursing staff receive the training and ongoing support necessary to protect and enhance the nutritional health of patients.