bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of performances of five capillary blood collection tubes
Authors: Peng Z. , Mao J. , Li W. , Jiang G. , Zhou J. , Wang S.
Published: April 2014

Introduction

The research demonstrated the way to compare performances of five capillary blood collection tubes for capillary blood collections among patients with pediatrics utilizing the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) document EP9‐A2.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was distributed to evaluate the accessibility and reliability of capillary blood collection tubes from different sources. Visual examination, microscopic examination of blood smears, and instrumental analysis were performed to evaluate the blood sample quality in different tubes. The background test, comparison test, and reliability test were used to analyze the engineering quality and the performance of additives in the tubes, and to determine the reliability of the tubes in routine blood tests.

Results

The tubes of brand A were found to be easy to access, with a shorter blood collection time and greater acceptability by users, and the quality of blood samples in those tubes was superior, with no coagulation and less blood cell disruption.

Conclusion

Commercially available capillary blood collection tubes were superior to ‘in‐house’ tubes. In clinical practice, ‘in‐house’ capillary blood collection tubes are not recommended. The guideline of ‘method comparison and bias estimation using patient samples’ from CLSI could also be used in comparing the performances of capillary blood collections.
What does advanced practice mean to Australian paediatric pharmacists? A focus group study
Authors: Stacey Sonya R , Coombes Ian , Wainwright Claire , Cardiff Lynda , Whitfield Karen
Published: April 2014

Objectives

The aim of this study was to explore perceptions and attitudes of Australian paediatric pharmacists about advanced pharmacy practice and to identify suitable methods of assessment for this level of practice.

Methods

Four focus groups (with 31 participants) were held in 2012 with Australian hospital pharmacists who work with children. Written notes and audio recordings were used to produce verbatim transcriptions and extract themes.

Key findings

There was consensus across groups that formal recognition of advanced pharmacy practice was valuable to the profession and to individuals. Elements should include a strong grounding in clinical practice, commitment to education, research and service improvement outside the department and institution. A framework for career development should be used to describe the levels of practice leading to advanced practice. Assessment should involve multiple separate criteria, and incorporate direct observation, peer review and a professional portfolio. Postgraduate qualifications are desirable but not considered essential. Different knowledge and skills are required in paediatrics; however, the definition of advanced practice remains the same.

Conclusions

Recognition of advanced practice is valuable for the profession and for individuals. Multiple methods of assessment should be used. Specialty areas such as paediatrics can be defined and assessed similar to other specialties, with acknowledgement of the specific paediatric knowledge and skills required.
Economic well‐being of low‐income single‐mother families following welfare reform in the USA
Authors: Ahn Haksoon
Published: April 2014

This study explored changes in net disposable income for low‐income single‐mother families before and after the 1996 welfare reform in the USA. Although many studies on welfare reform have focused on employment or total family income as a way to measure low‐income single‐mother families’ economic well‐being, little is known about their net income after expenses related to entering the workforce. This study analyzed net disposable income after tax deductions and childcare costs to provide a more accurate understanding of income changes using data from the Survey of Income and Program Participation conducted by the US Census Bureau. The results revealed that while low‐income single mothers were working more after welfare reform, their net disposable income decreased during this time because their earnings were low and offset by an increase in childcare costs and a decline in means‐tested benefits, including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families benefits.

Key Practitioner Message: ● To understand effects of the 1996 welfare reform on low‐income families’ economic well‐being; ● To understand comprehensive income sources and work related expenses of low‐income families; ● To provide policy suggestions for comprehensive childcare subsidies to support low‐income single mothers’ employment.
Do depressive symptoms in justice‐involved girls reduce the effects of a cognitive‐behavioral program on their disruptive and delinquent behaviors?
Authors: Lanctôt Nadine , Hauth‐Charlier Stéphane , Lemieux Annie
Published: April 2014

The present study evaluated the effects of a cognitive‐behavioral program on disruptive and delinquent behaviors among a sample of adolescent girls placed in a residential center in Quebec (Canada). This study also investigated the moderating impact of depressive symptoms on program effectiveness. The study used a quasi‐experimental design to allow comparisons between 104 girls in the treatment group and 78 girls in the comparison group over 18 months. Findings showed that the program contributed significantly, albeit modestly, to a decline in some forms of disruptive/delinquent behaviors. Results also indicated that girls with a higher level of depressive symptoms at admission also reported higher involvement in a myriad of disruptive/delinquent behaviors and that for some types of problem behaviors, this higher involvement persisted over time. In general, however, the seriousness of the depressive symptoms that the girls reported at admission did not interfere with the effectiveness of the cognitive‐behavioral program.
A best‐evidence review of intervention studies for minimizing resistance‐to‐care behaviours for older adults with dementia in nursing homes
Authors: Konno Rie , Kang Hee Sun , Makimoto Kiyoko
Published: April 2014

Aim

To conduct a best‐evidence review of non‐pharmacological interventions for resistance‐to‐care behaviours of nursing home residents with dementia in a personal‐care context.

Background

Resistance to care is a major source of staff burnout in nursing homes and it is also a safety issue for the staff.

Design

Best‐evidence review.

Data Sources

We searched for non‐pharmacological intervention studies published from 1990–2012, written in English.

Review Methods

The search identified 19 intervention studies that examined the effects of interventions to reduce the resistance‐to‐care behaviours of nursing home residents with dementia in a personal‐care context. These 19 papers met the quality assessment requirements of the critical appraisal criteria for experimental studies, which were published by the Joanna Briggs Institute.

Results

Only three studies were RCTs and the rest were quasi‐experimental. The sample size ranged from 7–127. Nine music interventions, such as pre‐recorded music played to a group or playing a resident's preferred music, during his or her personal care, resulted in significant reductions in resistance‐to‐care behaviours. Resistance‐to‐care behaviours also were significantly reduced in three of four bathing interventions that focused on person‐centred care. In the ability‐focused interventions, only two out of five studies reported significant reductions in resistance‐to‐care behaviours.

Conclusion

Non‐pharmacological interventions are options to consider to reduce resistance‐to‐care behaviours in older people with dementia, even though the evidence level is low, given the lack of alternatives. More randomized controlled trials are recommended to confirm the effects of non‐pharmacological interventions during personal care.
The role of physical geography and habitat type in shaping the biogeographical history of a recent radiation of Neotropical marsupials (Thylamys: Didelphidae)
Authors: Giarla Thomas C. , Jansa Sharon A.
Published: April 2014

Aim

In this study, we reconstructed the biogeographical history of species within the sister‐genera Thylamys and Lestodelphys, Neotropical marsupials that primarily inhabit open biomes. We used this reconstruction to test the extent to which physical geography (e.g. mountains and rivers) and habitat type (e.g. biomes) shaped patterns of diversification.

Location

Central and southern South America.

Methods

A fossil‐calibrated ultrametric tree for all species within Thylamys and Lestodelphys, along with relevant marsupial outgroups, was reconstructed using sequences from 23 nuclear loci and three mitochondrial loci. Using two biogeographical area schemes (based on biomes and physical barriers, respectively), the biogeographical history of this clade was reconstructed using Lagrange, a maximum‐likelihood approach.

Results

Thylamys and Lestodelphys originated during the Pliocene in the lowland areas east of the Andes and later expanded their range into and across the Andes. Rivers are implicated in speciation events that occurred in the lowlands, whereas differentiation among habitat types may have led to increased in situ speciation within the Andes.

Main conclusions

Biogeographical area schemes based on biomes and physical geographical barriers offered largely complementary results, supporting the hypothesis that both physical geography and ecological differences among habitats drive speciation in continental fauna. Invasion of high‐elevation grasslands may have been the impetus for further diversification in montane habitats, eventually seeding the adjacent lowland areas with additional species.
Bamboo‐dominated forests and pre‐Columbian earthwork formations in south‐western Amazonia
Authors: McMichael Crystal H. , Palace Michael W. , Golightly Megan
Published: April 2014

Aim

To determine whether thec. 160,000 km2patch of bamboo‐dominated forests (Guaduaspp.) in Amazonia is associated with pre‐Columbian earthwork (geoglyph) formation.

Location

South‐western Amazonia.

Methods

We modelled the distribution ofGuadua‐dominated forests and geoglyphs withMaxent, which uses occurrence points and a suite of environmental parameters. We compared the modelled distribution ofGuaduawith mapped distributions derived from remote sensing data, and with the modelled distribution of geoglyphs.

Results

The modelledGuaduadistribution closely fitted previously mapped estimates. Based on our analyses, the best predictors for the distribution ofGuadua‐dominated forests are temperature seasonality and close proximity to hilly terrain. Distance to bamboo forest and precipitation of the driest quarter were the most significant predictors of geoglyph distributions.

Main conclusions

This study suggests that the most parsimonious explanation for the association of geoglyphs and bamboo forests in south‐western Amazonia is that pre‐Columbian people constructed geoglyphs near the edges of the semelparous Guadua forests. After die‐off events, the large fuel load of dead vegetation would burn easily, providing a much easier mechanism of forest clearing than was possible in closed‐canopy forests. These results highlight the interplay of ancient human activity with observed biogeographical patterns, and suggest that pre‐Columbian settlement patterns may reflect the heterogeneity of forest types found within Amazonian rain forests.
Development of high‐temperature strain instrumentation for in situ SEM evaluation of ductility dip cracking
Authors: TORRES E.A. , MONTORO F. , RIGHETTO R.D. , RAMIREZ A.J.
Published: April 2014

Nowadays, the implementation of sophisticated in situ electron microscopy tests is providing new insights in several areas. In this work, an in situ high‐temperature strain test into a scanning electron microscope was developed. This setup was used to study the grain boundary sliding mechanism and its effect on the ductility dip cracking. This methodology was applied to study the mechanical behaviour of Ni‐base filler metal alloys ERNiCrFe‐7 and ERNiCr‐3, which were evaluated between 700°C and 1000°C. The ductility dip cracking susceptibility (threshold strain; εmin) for both alloys was quantified. The εmin of ERNiCrFe‐7 and ERNiCr‐3 alloys were 7.5% and 16.5%, respectively, confirming a better resistance of ERNiCr‐3 to ductility dip cracking. Furthermore, two separate components of grain boundary sliding, pure sliding (Sp) and deformation sliding (Sd), were identified and quantified. A direct and quantitative link between grain boundary tortuosity, grain boundary sliding and ductility dip cracking resistance has been established for the ERNiCrFe‐7 and ERNiCr‐3 alloys.
Enhanced saccadic control in young people with Tourette syndrome despite slowed pro‐saccades
Authors: Jung JeYoung , Jackson Stephen R. , Nam Kichun , Hollis Chris , Jackson Georgina M.
Published: April 2014

Tourette syndrome (TS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by motor and vocal tics. Tics are repetitive and uncontrolled behaviours that have been associated with basal ganglia dysfunction. We investigated saccadic eye movements in a group of young people with TS but without co‐morbid ADHD. Participants performed two tasks. One required them to perform only pro‐saccade responses (pure pro‐saccade task). The other involved shifting, unpredictably, between executing pro‐ and anti‐saccades (mixed saccade task). We show that in the mixing saccade task, the TS group makes significantly fewer errors than an age‐matched control group, while responding equally fast. By contrast, on the pure pro‐saccade task, the TS group were shown to be significantly slower to initiate and to complete the saccades (longer movement duration and decreased peak velocity) than controls, while movement amplitude and direction accuracy were not different. These findings demonstrate enhanced shifting ability despite slower reflexive responding in TS and are discussed with respect to a disorder‐related adaptation for increased cognitive regulation of behaviour.
Organizational socialization tactics and newcomer adjustment: The mediating role of role clarity and affect‐based trust relationships
Authors: Lapointe Émilie , Vandenberghe Christian , Boudrias Jean‐Sébastien
Published: April 2014

This study examines two routes through which organizational socialization tactics influence newcomers' adjustment: (1) through reducing job‐related uncertainty and (2) through the development of social‐exchange relationships with the supervisor and co‐workers. Consistent with predictions, our 3‐wave study of a sample of 224 newcomers found Time 2 role clarity, indicative of the uncertainty reduction route, to mediate a positive relationship between Time 1 socialization tactics and Time 3 self‐rated task performance. We also found Time 2 affect‐based trust towards supervisors and co‐workers, indicative of the social exchange route, to mediate a positive relationship between Time 1 socialization tactics and Time 3 affective organizational commitment. Taken together, our results suggest that uncertainty reduction and social exchange act as complementary routes during entry, with the former facilitating perceived work effectiveness and the latter explaining newcomers' psychological bond with the organization. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.

Practitioner points

The importance of trust in organizations is increasingly recognized. Our results suggest that affect‐based trust towards supervisors and co‐workers plays important roles in mediating the relationships between organizational socialization tactics and newcomer adjustment and, more particularly, newcomers' psychological bond with the organization.

Role clarity was found to mediate the relationship between organizational socialization tactics and self‐rated task performance. Therefore, it seems more important to explain newcomers' perceived work effectiveness.

This study's results emphasize the necessity for organizations to adopt a holistic approach to newcomer socialization, involving both learning processes and relationship‐building opportunities.
The Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire-19: Reliability, Validity, and Factor Structure of the Persian Version
Authors: Mohammadi Khadijeh , Rahnama Parvin , Montazeri Ali , Foley Frederick W.
Published: April 2014

Introduction

The Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire-19 (MSISQ-19) was designed to assess the perceived influence of multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms on sexual activity and satisfaction.

Aims

This study aimed to translate and validate the MSISQ-19 in women with MS in Iran.

Methods

The translation of the original questionnaire was carried out in accordance with a standard forward–backward procedure. Then, a sample of 226 married women with MS completed the questionnaire. Reliability was estimated using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Concurrent validity was assessed by comparison with the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), and the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). The factor structure of the questionnaire was extracted by performing exploratory factor analyses. All patients underwent a full neurologic examination.

Main Outcome Measures

MSISQ-19 score was the main outcome measure.

Results

The mean age of participants was 35.77 years (SD = 8.07), with mean disease duration of 1.84 years (SD = 0.79). Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.90 for total MSISQ-19 score, with values of 0.85, 0.90, and 0.78 for the subscales assessing primary, secondary, and tertiary sexual dysfunction, respectively. The principal component analysis indicated a three-factor solution, similar to that found in the original validation study, that explained 63.0% of the total variance for women with MS. Scores on the MSISQ-19 and its subscales correlated with scores on the FSFI, EDSS, and BDI-II (all P < 0.01).

Conclusion

In general, the findings suggest that the MSISQ-19 is a reliable and valid measure of sexual function among Iranian women with MS. However, further studies are needed to establish psychometric properties for male MS patients in Iran.
Local and regional long‐term diversity changes and biotic homogenization in two temperate grasslands
Authors: Puhl L. E. , Perelman S. B. , Batista W. B. , Burkart S. E. , León R. J. C.
Published: April 2014

Questions

Are there losses in species richness due to extinctions? Is the input of new species lower in environments with strong resource limitation? Is there a decrease in abundance and diversity of native species due to anthropogenic disturbance at local and regional scale? Has abundance of exotic species been favoured by grazing increased? Are floristic changes associated with homogenization processes?

Location

Two grassland community types of the Argentine Flooding Pampas: the mesophyte prairie and the halophyte steppe.

Methods

Grassland sites (n = 51) were resurveyed with the same methodology after 35 yr. At the local scale (0.25 ha), we analysed alpha diversity, site colonization and extinction rates, and changes in species and functional type composition. Site colonization rates were calculated separately for new species (not recorded in the original inventory) and old species (present in the first survey at other sample sites of the community). Correspondence analysis was applied to the presence/absence species matrix for all sites in both periods. At regional scale, we evaluated gamma diversity, heterogeneity within and between communities, changes in proportion of functional types (growth season, longevity and life form) and species origin.

Results

In the mesophytic prairie, average local species richness increased 46% and regional richness 28%, while in the halophytic steppe changes were not significant. The colonization rate was higher and the extinction rate lower in the richest community (mesophytic prairie). Differences in colonization rates between natives and exotics were not found. Principal variability between sites in species composition was associated with abiotic conditions explaining 20.9% of inertia, temporal changes were relegated to the second axis with 6.38%. Proportions of warm‐season exotics among new arrivals were higher than expected. Biotic homogenization was evidenced in the mesophytic prairie as a significant reduction in species turnover between sampling dates.

Conclusions

After 35 yr under moderate grazing intensity we found increases in species richness, no biodiversity loss and no losses of native species. Instead of those species favoured by grazing, as expected, warm season species increased. Different grassland communities showed clear differences in richness changes, in degree of homogenization and in species turnover.
Rensch's rule and sexual dimorphism in salamanders: patterns and potential processes
Authors: Colleoni E. , Denoël M. , Padoa‐Schioppa E. , Scali S. , Ficetola G. F.
Published: April 2014

Body size is influenced by the interaction of multiple forces, whose effects can determine the occurrence of sexual size dimorphism (SSD).Rensch's rule is the increase ofSSDwith body size in taxa where males are the largest sex, and the opposite pattern in female‐biasedSSDtaxa. This pattern was detected in many animal groups, but contrasting results were also highlighted. This study evaluated the existence ofRensch's patterns for body size and for the number of caudal vertebrae in salamandrid caudate amphibians. Furthermore, we tested the support of alternative hypotheses on processes that may determine allometric patterns: sexual selection, fecundity selection and constraining selection by performing separate analyses on species with male‐ and female‐biasedSSD. We used the literature and original data to gather information on body size and number of caudal vertebrae in 52 species of salamandrids over four continents. We then tested the support of the three hypotheses using a phylogenetic approach. Rensch's rule was valid for body size in salamanders only for species with male‐biased dimorphism. No allometric relationships were detected by analyses on all the species, or by analyses on female‐biasedSSDspecies. Analyses performed on the number of caudal vertebrae showed no significant patterns. Our study supports the role of sexual selection in promoting positive allometry for body size in male‐biasedSSDspecies, whereas the alternative hypotheses were not supported by our data. These results highlight the importance of distinguishing male‐ and female‐biased species as different evolutionary pressures and constraints may be at the basis of evolution ofSSDin these groups.
Impact of Rho‐Kinase Inhibitor Hydroxyfasudil in Protamine Sulphate Induced Cystitis Rat Bladder
Authors: AKIN Yigit , BOZKURT Aliseydi , EROL Huseyin S. , HALICI Mesut , CELEBI Fikret , KAPAKIN Kubra A. T. , GULMEZ Hakan , ATES Mutlu , COBAN Abdulkadir , NUHOGLU Baris
Published: April 2014

Objectives

The objective of the present study was to evaluate anti‐inflammatory effects of hydroxyfasudil in a protamine sulfate (PS) induced cystitis rat model. Additionally, we investigated prevention of bladder overactivity (BO), and tissue damage in these experiments.

Methods

Animals were divided into four groups. In Groups 1 and 2, chemical induced cystitis model was created by administrating intravesical PS with PE50 catheter by the transurethral route. In Group 1, Rho‐kinase inhibitor hydroxyfasudil was administered intaperitoneally, and in Group 2, subjects were administered a corresponding volume of saline in the same way. In Group 3, vehicle was administered intravesically and hydroxyfasudil was administrated intraperitoneally. Group 4 was a control Group, and the vehicle was administered intravesically and intraperitoneally. Micturition frequencies were recorded. Biochemical analyses were performed for oxidative stress, and pathological evaluations were investigated. In vitro contractions of bladder tissue strips were measured in tissue‐bath.

Results

There were significantly lower Lipid peroxidase levels and higher levels of Glutathione in Group 1 than Group 2 (P = 0.016, P = 0.001, respectively). There was generally more inflammation in Group 2 than the other groups as determined by microscopy. There were significantly higher frequencies of micturition, lower volume, and mean voided maximum urine output after PS administration in Groups 1 and 2. In vitro contraction responses of bladder strips to potassium chloride and acetylcholine were statistically higher in Group 2 than Groups 1 and 3.

Conclusions

Significant reduction of inflammation by affecting the anti‐oxidant defense systems was provided by hydroxyfasudil. Decreased in vitro responses to contractions of bladder smooth muscle strips were obtained. Hydroxyfasudil may be a potential new therapeutic option for inflammation and BO, in rat bladder.
Economic Growth under Stochastic Population and Pollution Shocks
Authors: Azomahou Théophile T. , Mishra Tapas , Parhi Mamata
Published: April 2014

We study dynamics of interactions among economic growth, population, and environmental quality when stochastic shocks in these systems display long‐memory property. We make two important contributions. First, we show that the long‐memory persistence in economic growth is determined jointly by the convergence speed of shocks in both environmental quality and population. Second, by simulating a modified Solow‐Swan economy we demonstrate that the convergence‐speed of shocks in these systems significantly affects the long‐run growth trajectory of output. Our empirical examination evince that adjustment of output to long‐run equilibrium is very slow, thanks to the slowly dissipating population and pollution shocks.
Papillary glioneuronal tumor with a high proliferative component and minigemistocytes in a child
Authors: Momota Hiroyuki , Fujii Masazumi , Tatematsu Akiko , Shimoyama Yoshie , Tsujiuchi Takashi , Ohno Masasuke , Natsume Atsushi , Wakabayashi Toshihiko
Published: April 2014

Papillary glioneuronal tumor (PGNT) is a rare type of primary brain tumor. Although PGNT has traditionally been defined as a clinically indolent neoplasm, several cases with high proliferative activity and tumor recurrence have recently been reported. We report a case of PGNT in a 12‐year‐old boy who presented with epilepsy and harbored a 64 mm cystic tumor with a high proliferative component in the right temporal lobe. 11C‐methionine positron emission tomography (PET) showed high uptake in the solid mass. Gross total resection of the tumor mass was achieved and the patient became seizure‐free without any neurological deficits. Histologically, the tumor contained two distinct areas of a vasocentric papilliform structure and a desmoplastic component. Minigemistocytic cells and small necrotic regions were observed adjacent to the pseudopapillae. Immunohistochemical analyses revealed both glial and neuronal differentiation. The Ki‐67 proliferation index was high (14%) in the area corresponding to the high uptake region in the 11C‐methionine PET. No tumor recurrence was observed 20 months after surgery. High proliferative PGNTs are rare and to our knowledge this is only the third pediatric case of PGNT with atypical features reported in the literature. Hence, we here review the reported cases of PGNT and discuss the clinical, radiological and histological features of this malignancy.
Detecting phylogenetic signal in mutualistic interaction networks using a Markov process model
Authors: Minoarivelo H. O. , Hui C. , Terblanche J. S. , Kosakovsky Pond S. L. , Scheffler K.
Published: April 2014

Ecological interaction networks, such as those describing the mutualistic interactions between plants and their pollinators or between plants and their frugivores, exhibit non‐random structural properties that cannot be explained by simple models of network formation. One factor affecting the formation and eventual structure of such a network is its evolutionary history. We argue that this, in many cases, is closely linked to the evolutionary histories of the species involved in the interactions. Indeed, empirical studies of interaction networks along with the phylogenies of the interacting species have demonstrated significant associations between phylogeny and network structure. To date, however, no generative model explaining the way in which the evolution of individual species affects the evolution of interaction networks has been proposed. We present a model describing the evolution of pairwise interactions as a branching Markov process, drawing on phylogenetic models of molecular evolution. Using knowledge of the phylogenies of the interacting species, our model yielded a significantly better fit to 21% of a set of plant–pollinator and plant–frugivore mutualistic networks. This highlights the importance, in a substantial minority of cases, of inheritance of interaction patterns without excluding the potential role of ecological novelties in forming the current network architecture. We suggest that our model can be used as a null model for controlling evolutionary signals when evaluating the role of other factors in shaping the emergence of ecological networks.
Effectiveness and Safety of Tapentadol Prolonged Release (PR) Versus a Combination of Tapentadol PR and Pregabalin for the Management of Severe, Chronic Low Back Pain With a Neuropathic Component: A Randomized, Double‐blind, Phase 3b Study
Authors: Baron Ralf , Martin‐Mola Emilio , Müller Matthias , Dubois Cecile , Falke Dietmar , Steigerwald Ilona
Published: April 2014

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness and tolerability of tapentadol PR monotherapy versus tapentadol PR/pregabalin combination therapy for severe, chronic low back pain with a neuropathic component.

Methods

Eligible patients had painDETECT “unclear” or “positive” ratings and average pain intensity ≥ 6 (11‐point NRS‐3 [average 3‐day pain intensity]) at baseline. Patients were titrated to tapentadol PR 300 mg/day over 3 weeks. Patients with ≥ 1‐point decrease in pain intensity and average pain intensity ≥ 4 were randomized to tapentadol PR (500 mg/day) or tapentadol PR (300 mg/day)/pregabalin (300 mg/day) during an 8‐week comparative period.

Results

In the per‐protocol population (n = 288), the effectiveness of tapentadol PR was clinically and statistically comparable to tapentadol PR/pregabalin based on the change in pain intensity from randomization to final evaluation (LOCF; LSMD [95% CI], −0.066 [−0.57, 0.43]; P < 0.0001 for noninferiority). Neuropathic pain and quality‐of‐life measures improved significantly in both groups. Tolerability was good in both groups, in line with prior trials in the high dose range of 500 mg/day for tapentadol PR monotherapy, and favorable compared with historical combination trials of strong opioids and anticonvulsants for combination therapy. The incidence of the composite of dizziness and/or somnolence was significantly lower with tapentadol PR (16.9%) than tapentadol PR/pregabalin (27.0%; P = 0.0302).

Conclusions

Tapentadol PR 500 mg is associated with comparable improvements in pain intensity and quality‐of‐life measures to tapentadol PR 300 mg/pregabalin 300 mg, with improved central nervous system tolerability, suggesting that tapentadol PR monotherapy may offer a favorable treatment option for severe low back pain with a neuropathic component.
Molecular analysis of common polymorphisms within the human Tyrosinase locus and genetic association with pigmentation traits
Authors: Jagirdar Kasturee , Smit Darren J. , Ainger Stephen A. , Lee Katie J. , Brown Darren L. , Chapman Brett , Zhen Zhao Zhen , Montgomery Grant W. , Martin Nicholas G. , Stow Jennifer L. , Duffy David L. , Sturm Richard A.
Published: April 2014

We have compared the melanogenic activities of cultured melanocytes carrying two common TYR alleles as homozygous 192S‐402R wild‐type, heterozygous and homozygous variant. This includes assays of TYR protein, DOPAoxidase activity, glycosylation and temperature sensitivity of protein and DOPAoxidase levels. Homozygous wild‐type strains on average had higher levels of TYR protein and enzyme activity than other genotypes. Homozygous 402Q/Q melanocytes produced significantly less TYR protein, displayed altered trafficking and glycosylation, with reduced DOPAoxidase. However, near wild‐type TYR activity levels could be recovered at lower growth temperature. In a sample population from Southeast Queensland, these two polymorphisms were present on four TYR haplotypes, designated as WT 192S‐402R, 192Y‐402R and 192S‐402Q with a double‐variant 192Y‐402Q of low frequency at 1.9%. Based on cell culture findings and haplotype associations, we have used an additive model to assess the penetrance of the ten possible TYR genotypes derived from the combination of these haplotypes.
Aggressive periodontitis: case definition and diagnostic criteria
Authors: Albandar Jasim M.
Published: April 2014

Aggressive periodontitis is a destructive disease characterized by the following: the involvement of multiple teeth with a distinctive pattern of periodontal tissue loss; a high rate of disease progression; an early age of onset; and the absence of systemic diseases. In some patients periodontal tissue loss may commence before puberty, whereas in most patients the age of onset is during or somewhat after the circumpubertal period. Besides infection with specific microorganisms, a host predisposition seems to play a key role in the pathogenesis of aggressive periodontitis, as evidenced by the familial aggregation of the disease. In this article we review the historical background of the diagnostic criteria of aggressive periodontitis, present a contemporary case definition and describe the clinical parameters of the disease. At present, the diagnosis of aggressive periodontitis is achieved using case history, clinical examination and radiographic evaluation. The data gathered using these methods are prone to relatively high measurement errors. Besides, this diagnostic approach measures past disease history and may not reliably measure existing disease activity or accurately predict future tissue loss. A diagnosis is often made years after the onset of the disease, partly because current assessment methods detect established disease more readily and reliably than they detect incipient or initial lesions where the tissue loss is minimal and usually below the detection threshold of present examination methods. Future advancements in understanding the pathogenesis of this disease may contribute to an earlier diagnosis. Insofar, future case definitions may involve the identification of key etiologic and risk factors, combined with high‐precision methodologies that enable the early detection of initial lesions. This may significantly enhance the predictive value of these tests and detect cases of aggressive periodontitis before significant tissue loss develops.
Role of genetic factors in the pathogenesis of aggressive periodontitis
Authors: Vieira Alexandre R. , Albandar Jasim M.
Published: April 2014

This article critically reviews the evidence for a role of genetic factors in the pathogenesis of aggressive periodontitis and discusses the study approaches commonly used to identify genetic risk factors of this disease. Available data suggest that aggressive periodontitis is caused by mutations in multiple genes, combined with environmental effects. Syndromic periodontal diseases include certain monogenic disorders that express phenotypes showing aggressive forms of periodontitis, and the genetic triggering factors of most of these syndromes have been identified. Other periodontal disease phenotypes seem to occur through different genetic predisposition patterns. Case–control and genome‐wide studies have been used to investigate the association with gene polymorphisms. Association studies and the familial aggregation of aggressive periodontitis suggest a significant genetic component in the increased predisposition to this disease. There is evidence to support the contribution of a few major genes or of multiple small‐effects genes. In addition, there is evidence of gene–gene and gene–environment interaction effects. Early studies suggested an X‐linked mode of transmission of aggressive periodontitis, and subsequent studies support an autosomal mode. Genetic studies have the potential to improve the screening programs of subjects at risk for developing aggressive periodontitis and may enhance treatment outcome through gene therapy.
Associated factors to erosive tooth wear and its impact on quality of life in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Abanto Jenny , Shitsuka Caleb , Murakami Christiana , Ciamponi Ana Lídia , Raggio Daniela Prócida , Bönecker Marcelo
Published: April 2014

To evaluate the presence and associated factors of erosive tooth wear (ETW) in children with cerebral palsy (CP), as well as its impact on the oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL). Parents of 60 CP children, between 6 and 14 years of age, answered the Brazilian version of the parental‐caregivers perception questionnaire (P‐CPQ). The ETW diagnosis was performed by a single calibrated examiner according to the O'Brien´s modified index. Associated factors such as family income, behavioral factors, and type of CP were also collected. OHRQoL was measured through P‐CPQ domains and total score, and Poisson regression was used to correlate ETW to associated factors and to the scores. ETW was present in 48.3% of the children. The multivariate adjusted model showed that the presence of ETW was associated with more than 2 days of soft drink intake per week (p = 0.003), daily intake of powdered juice (p = 0.002) and reported gastroesophageal reflux (p = 0.016). The family income higher than one Brazilian minimum wage showed a positive impact on the CP children's OHRQoL (RR = 0.53; p ≤ 0.001). ETW in CP children is associated to frequent consumption of soft drinks, powdered juices, and reported gastroesophageal reflux; however, ETW has not a negative impact on the OHRQoL.
Ice skating promotes postural control in children
Authors: Keller M. , Röttger K. , Taube W.
Published: April 2014

High fall rates causing injury and enormous financial costs are reported for children. However, only few studies investigated the effects of balance training in children and these studies did not find enhanced balance performance in postural (transfer) tests. Consequently, it was previously speculated that classical balance training might not be stimulating enough for children to adequately perform these exercises. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of ice skating as an alternative form of balance training. Volunteers of an intervention (n = 17; INT: 13.1 ± 0.4 years) and a control group (n = 13; CON: 13.2 ± 0.3 years) were tested before and after training in static and dynamic postural transfer tests. INT participated in eight sessions of ice skating during education lessons, whereas CON participated in normal physical education. Enhanced balance performance was observed in INT but not in CON when tested on an unstable free‐swinging platform (P < 0.05) or when performing a functional reach test (P < 0.001). This is the first study showing significantly enhanced balance performance after ice skating in children. More importantly, participating children improved static and dynamic balance control in postural tasks that were not part of the training.
Der Einfluss von Mandatstyp und Wahlkreiseigenschaften auf die inhaltlichen Positionen in Parlamentsreden: Eine Untersuchung anhand der parlamentarischen Debatten im Deutschen Bundestag von 1998 bis 2002
Authors: Debus Marc , Bäck Hanna
Published: April 2014

Das Halten von Reden in Parlamenten ist eine zentrale Möglichkeit für gewählte Repräsentanten, ihre inhaltlichen Standpunkte den Medien und damit einer breiten Öffentlichkeit zu vermitteln. Dies kann insbesondere hilfreich sein, um Signale an die eigene Partei oder auch die Wählerschaft im Wahlkreis zu senden, so dass ein Abgeordneter schlussendlich die Chancen erhöht, die Mehrheit der Stimmen im Wahlkreis (erneut) zu erzielen. In diesem Beitrag wird auf der Grundlage des Modells responsiven Handelns einerseits sowie des Prinzipal‐Agenten‐Ansatzes andererseits der Frage nachgegangen, inwiefern die in den Reden eingenommenen inhaltlichen Standpunkte von den Wahlergebnissen und den sozioökonomischen Charakteristika in den Wahlkreisen, in denen die Abgeordneten kandidierten, sowie von den innerparteilichen Konfliktmustern und den persönlichen Merkmalen der Abgeordneten beeinflusst werden. Die Ergebnisse, die auf einem alle in wirtschafts‐, finanz‐ und sozialpolitischen Debatten im Deutschen Bundestag zwischen 1998 und 2002 gehaltenen Reden, den strukturellen Merkmalen der Wahlkreise sowie den parteipolitischen und persönlichen Eigenschaften der Abgeordneten umfassenden Datensatz beruhen, zeigen, dass Abgeordnete in ihren Reden programmatisch auf die Eigenschaften ihres Wahlkreises reagieren. Zudem spielen parteipolitische als auch institutionelle Faktoren wie die Mitgliedschaften in Ausschüssen oder in (früheren) Bundesregierungen eine ausschlaggebende Rolle.
The HLA‐net GENE[RATE] pipeline for effective HLA data analysis and its application to 145 population samples from Europe and neighbouring areas
Authors: Nunes J. M. , Buhler S. , Roessli D. , Sanchez‐Mazas A. ,   the HLA‐net 2013 collaboration
Published: April 2014

In this review, we present for the first time an integrated version of the Gene[rate] computer tools which have been developed during the last 5 years to analyse human leukocyte antigen (HLA) data in human populations, as well as the results of their application to a large dataset of 145 HLA‐typed population samples from Europe and its two neighbouring areas, North Africa and West Asia, now forming part of the Gene[va] database. All these computer tools and genetic data are, from now, publicly available through a newly designed bioinformatics platform, HLA‐net, here presented as a main achievement of the HLA‐NET scientific programme. The Gene[rate] pipeline offers user‐friendly computer tools to estimate allele and haplotype frequencies, to test Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE), selective neutrality and linkage disequilibrium, to recode HLA data, to convert file formats, to display population frequencies of chosen alleles and haplotypes in selected geographic regions, and to perform genetic comparisons among chosen sets of population samples, including new data provided by the user. Both numerical and graphical outputs are generated, the latter being highly explicit and of publication quality. All these analyses can be performed on the pipeline after scrupulous validation of the population sample's characterisation and HLA typing reporting according to HLA‐NET recommendations. The Gene[va] database offers direct access to the HLA‐A, ‐B, ‐C, ‐DQA1, ‐DQB1, ‐DRB1 and ‐DPB1 frequencies and summary statistics of 145 population samples having successfully passed these HLA‐NET ‘filters’, and representing three European subregions (South‐East, North‐East and Central‐West Europe) and two neighbouring areas (North Africa, as far as Sudan, and West Asia, as far as South India). The analysis of these data, summarized in this review, shows a substantial genetic variation at the regional level in this continental area. These results have main implications for population genetics, transplantation and epidemiological studies.
Comparison of seven hepatitis B virus (HBV) nucleic acid testing assays in selected samples with discrepant HBV marker results from United States blood donors
Authors: Enjalbert Florence , Krysztof David E. , Candotti Daniel , Allain Jean‐Pierre , Stramer Susan L.
Published: April 2014

Background

Sensitive triplex nucleic acid tests (NATs) are implemented for blood donation screening worldwide. Assays have variable ability to detect low‐level hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA. At borderline DNA detection levels, where Poisson distribution impacts results, distinguishing true‐positive from false‐positive results is challenging. Algorithms are needed to confirm such low‐level HBV DNA–positive samples.

Study Design and Methods

A total of 135 blood donor samples reactive by one or more HBV markers that provided discrepant results were tested undiluted with four commercial NATs: Ultrio, Ultrio Plus, MPX, and a quantitative assay (SuperQuant). To further explore discrepancies, three additional in‐house NATs including real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and nested PCR and sequencing were performed.

Results

The numbers reactive of these 135 “difficult” samples by four commercial NATs were as follows: 39 of 107 (36%) with SuperQuant, 40 (30%) with Ultrio, 100 (74%) with Ultrio Plus, and 102 (76%) with MPX. Of the seven NATs, 109 (81%) samples were reactive by at least two assays and thus considered confirmed positive of which 67 (50%) generated a sequence. Ultrio Plus and MPX performed similarly as above (80%‐85% detected of 109 and 81%‐90% of 67, respectively). Older (median, 49 years), HBV core antibody–reactive donors carried predominantly Genotype A (58%) with high‐frequency amino acid substitutions in the major hydrophilic region of the S‐protein. Younger (median, 24 years) hepatitis B surface antigen–positive donors carried wild‐type strains predominantly Genotype B (32%) and E (24%), the latter in an apparent cluster.

Conclusions

Highly sensitive NATs require new confirmatory algorithms as presented optimally using different genomic regions or sequence generation. The introduction of immigration‐related HBV genotypes may impact HBV epidemiology in the United States.
Probable transfusion‐transmission of Anaplasma phagocytophilum by leukoreduced platelets
Authors: Townsend Rebecca L. , Moritz Erin D. , Fialkow Lawrence B. , Berardi Victor , Stramer Susan L.
Published: April 2014

Background

Anaplasma phagocytophilum (AP), a tick‐borne obligate intracellular bacterium, causes human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA) and has been implicated in seven transfusion‐transmitted (TT)‐HGA cases associated with red blood cells (RBCs). Here we report the first probable case of TT‐HGA involving leukoreduced platelets (PLTs).

Case Report

A hospitalized male received 25 blood components (November 2012) before his death from trauma. Hospital testing confirmed HGA by peripheral blood smears; samples were also sent to IMUGEN, Inc. (Norwood, MA), for AP‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and AP‐immunoglobulin (Ig)M and IgG enzyme immunoassay. All 12 potentially transmitting donors provided follow‐up samples.

Results

Recipient smears progressed from negative to predominantly positive 16 days posttransfusion; hospital‐performed AP‐PCR was positive on Day 22. IMUGEN sample testing was PCR positive and IgM and IgG negative 14 to 23 days posttransfusion. The recipient had no known AP risk factors. One of 12 donors of RBCs or PLTs (leukoreduced 5‐day‐old PLTs) provided six follow‐up samples; all were strongly IgG positive and IgM negative; one was PCR‐positive. The IgG‐positive donor was a 52‐year‐old female from Hudson Valley, New York, an area endemic for AP. She reported tick bites in September to October 2012 with no travel outside New York. The donor remained asymptomatic and received no treatment. The cocomponent PLT unit was transfused to a 78‐year‐old male who died of causes unrelated to AP.

Conclusions

This eighth case of probable TT‐HGA indicates that leukoreduced PLTs may be infectious. An antibody‐ and PCR‐positive donor having prior tick exposure living in an endemic area was identified. PCR positivity and elevated IgG levels, which continue to exceed the assay's detectible range even in the absence of IgM, indicate active donor infection.