bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The temporal influence of a heroin shortage on pregnant drug users and their newborn infants in Sydney, Australia
Authors: PONG Kwai Meng , ABDEL‐LATIF Mohamed E. , LUI Kei , WODAK Alexander D. , FELLER John M. , CAMPBELL Thomas , OEI Julee
Published: May 2010

Background:  Heroin availability and purity decreased precipitously in Australian markets between 2000 and 2001. This led to increased use of non‐opiate drugs in the general community but whether pregnant drug users and their newborn infants were affected remains unknown.

Aim:  To determine if perinatal drug exposure and outcomes are affected by changes in street drug availability.

Methods:  Retrospective review was carried out of known drug‐exposed mothers delivering live‐born infants at the Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick, Australia (n = 316). Study periods were divided into preshortage (A = 1998–2000, n = 79), shortage (B = 2001–2002, n = 92) and post‐shortage (C = 2003–2006, n = 122) periods. Cannabis‐only users were excluded (n = 23).

Results:  The percentage of confined women who admitted to using heroin decreased significantly (65%(A) vs 34%(B), P < 0.01) as did women on methadone programmes (90%(A), 80%(B), 75%(C), P = 0.024). The use of cocaine (7% (A) vs 33% (B), P = 0.031) and amphetamines (4% (A) vs 22% (C), P = 0.01), tripled. Most infants were born full‐term and healthy but the duration of infant hospitalisation increased significantly from (median [interquartile range]) 8 [10, 38](A) to 13 [7, 23](C) days (P < 0.01). Approximately 50% of infants required withdrawal treatment but more needed phenobarbitone as an adjunct to morphine during the shortage (4/80 (0.5%) vs 15/93 (16%), P = 0.026), probably because of increased exposure to non‐opiate drugs.

Conclusions:  The types of drugs used by pregnant drug users follow street trends and may affect infant hospitalisation and withdrawal treatment. Of concern is the rise in amphetamine‐use and there needs to be increased vigilance for similar trends, especially in previously unidentified drug users.
Respiratory failure in pregnant women infected by Swine‐Origin influenza A (H1N1)
Authors: ANG Luan Thiam , GANDHI Kalpesh , QIN Yu‐Hong Victoria
Published: May 2010

Two pregnant women developed acute respiratory distress syndrome from Swine‐Origin influenza A (H1H1) virus. They were put on mechanical ventilation. We discussed the issues that face obstetricians and intensive care physicians in such situations.
Developing a modern pollen–climate calibration data set for Norway
Authors: BJUNE ANNE E. , BIRKS H. JOHN B. , PEGLAR SYLVIA M. , ODLAND ARVID
Published: May 2010

Bjune, A. E., Birks, H. J. B., Peglar, S. M. & Odland, A. 2010: Developing a modern pollen–climate calibration data set for Norway. Boreas, Vol. 39, pp. 674–688. 10.1111/j.1502‐3885.2010.00158.x. ISSN 0300‐9483.

Modern pollen–climate data sets consisting of modern pollen assemblages and modern climate data (mean July temperature and mean annual precipitation) have been developed for Norway based on 191 lakes and 321 lakes. The original 191‐lake data set was designed to optimize the distribution of the lakes sampled along the mean July temperature gradient, thereby fulfilling one of the most critical assumptions of weighted‐averaging regression and calibration and its relative, weighted‐averaging partial least‐squares regression. A further 130 surface samples of comparable taphonomy, taxonomic detail and analyst became available as a result of other projects. These 130 samples, all from new lakes, were added to the 191‐lake data set to create the 321‐lake data set. The collection and construction of these data sets are outlined. Numerical analyses involving generalized linear modelling, constrained ordination techniques, weighted‐averaging partial least‐squares regression, and two different cross‐validation procedures are used to asses the effects of increasing the size of the calibration data set from 191 to 321 lakes. The two data sets are used to reconstruct mean July temperature and mean annual precipitation for a Holocene site in northwest Norway and a Lateglacial site in west‐central Norway. Overall, little is to be gained by increasing the modern data set beyond about 200 lakes in terms of modern model performance statistics, but the down‐core reconstructions show less between‐sample variability and are thus potentially more plausible and realistic when based on the 321‐lake data set.
Estimation of Maximum Ventricular Elastance Under Assistance With a Rotary Blood Pump
Authors: Sugai Telma K. , Tanaka Akira , Yoshizawa Makoto , Shiraishi Yasuyuki , Yambe Tomoyuki , Nitta Shin‐ichi , Baba Atsushi
Published: May 2010

The maximum ventricular elastance is a reliable index for assessing the cardiac function from changes in its pressure‐volume relationship. The advantage of this index is that it can represent the contractility of either unassisted hearts or native hearts assisted with rotary blood pumps. However, there are situations in which changes in the ventricular load required for the conventional estimation method might be risky. For example, in a bridge‐to‐recovery the cardiac function should also be continuously observed after the implantation of a rotary blood pump. In this article, we present the results of the estimation of the maximum elastance with in vivo data using the parameter optimization method, which is a single‐beat estimation method. The estimated values for the normal cardiac function (6.8 ± 0.6, 4.5 ± 0.9, 4.2 ± 1.8 mm Hg/mL) were significantly different from those for the low cardiac function (3.2 ± 1.5, 1.9 ± 1.0, 1.9 ± 1.2 mm Hg/mL) from the data of the three animals that were analyzed. Besides, the maximum elastance values were independent of the pump rotational speed. These results indicate that this index might be useful for the detection of the myocardial recovery.
Combined Wear Behavior and Long‐Term Implant‐Bone Fixation of Total Knee Replacement: A Novel In Vitro Set‐up
Authors: Spinelli Michele , Affatato Saverio , Cristofolini Luca , Erani Paolo , Tigani Domenico , Viceconti Marco
Published: May 2010

The success of a total knee replacement (TKR) strongly depends on the prosthetic design; this includes on one hand the best choice of the bearing materials to minimize wear, on the other hand a good orientation of the prosthetic components with respect to the loading directions. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of a new experimental setup combining two fundamental aspects for the long‐term success of knee implants: wear and micromotions. A novel procedure was used to simulate working conditions as close as possible to in vivo ones and to measure implant‐bone micromotion, by means of fixing the femoral component of the prosthesis to the distal part of a synthetic femur to be tested through a knee simulator. Gravimetric wear of the tibial specimens was assessed at regular intervals. Implant‐bone inducible micromotions and permanent migrations were measured at three locations throughout the test. Wear patterns on tibial specimens were characterized through a standardized protocol based on digital image analysis; fatigue damage in the cement was quantified. Some initial conditioning was noticed both in the wear process and microcracking distribution within the cement mantle. Similarity in wear tracks observed on tibial inserts and other retrieval studies, coupled with clinically consistent migration patterns for TKR, supports the efficacy of the new in vitro method presented.
A Novel Low Temperature Transcutaneous Energy Transfer System Suitable for High Power Implantable Medical Devices: Performance and Validation in Sheep
Authors: Dissanayake Thushari D. , Budgett David M. , Hu Patrick , Bennet Laura , Pyner Susan , Booth Lindsea , Amirapu Satya , Wu Yanzhen , Malpas Simon C.
Published: May 2010

Transcutaneous energy transfer (TET) systems use magnetic fields to transfer power across the skin without direct electrical connectivity. This offers the prospect of lifetime operation and overcomes risk of infection associated with wires passing through the skin. Previous attempts at this technology have not proved suitable due to poor efficiency, large size, or tissue damage. We have developed a novel approach utilizing frequency control that allows for wide tolerance in the alignment between internal and external coils for coupling variations of 10 to 20 mm, and relatively small size (50 mm diameter, 5 mm thickness). Using a sheep experimental model, the secondary coil was implanted under the skin in six sheep, and the system was operated to deliver a stable power output to a 15 W load continuously over 4 weeks. The maximum surface temperature of the secondary coil increased by a mean value of 3.4 ± 0.4°C (±SEM). The highest absolute mean temperature was 38.3°C. The mean temperature rise 20 mm from the secondary coil was 0.8 ± 0.1°C. The efficiency of the system exceeded 80% across a wide range of coil orientations. Histological analysis revealed no evidence of tissue necrosis or damage after four weeks of operation. We conclude that this technology is able to offer robust transfer of power to implantable devices without excess heating causing tissue damage.
Physical Health and Drinking Among Medical Inpatients With Unhealthy Alcohol Use: A Prospective Study1
Authors: Williams Emily C. , Palfai Tibor , Cheng Debbie M. , Samet Jeffrey H. , Bradley Katharine A. , Koepsell Thomas D. , Wickizer Thomas M. , Heagerty Patrick J. , Saitz Richard
Published: May 2010

Objective:  Unhealthy alcohol use is common in medical inpatients, and hospitalization has been hypothesized to serve as a “teachable moment” that could motivate patients to decrease drinking, but studies of hospital‐based brief interventions have often not found decreases. Evaluating associations between physical health and subsequent drinking among medical inpatients with unhealthy alcohol use could inform refinement of hospital‐based brief interventions by identifying an important foundation on which to build them. We tested associations between poor physical health and drinking after hospitalization and whether associations varied by alcohol dependence status and readiness to change.

Methods:  Participants were medical inpatients who screened positive for unhealthy alcohol use and consented to participate in a randomized trial of brief intervention (n = 341). Five measures of physical health were independent variables. Outcomes were abstinence and the number of heavy drinking days (HDDs) reported in the 30 days prior to interviews 3 months after hospitalization. Separate regression models were fit to evaluate each independent variable controlling for age, gender, randomization group, and baseline alcohol use. Interactions between each independent variable and alcohol dependence and readiness to change were tested. Stratified models were fit when significant interactions were identified.

Results:  Among all participants, measures of physical health were not significantly associated with either abstinence or number of HDDs at 3 months. Having an alcohol‐attributable principal admitting diagnosis was significantly associated with fewer HDDs in patients who were nondependent [adjusted incidence rate ratio (aIRR) 0.10, 95% CI 0.03–0.32] or who had low alcohol problem perception (aIRR 0.36, 95% CI 0.13–0.99) at hospital admission. No significant association between alcohol‐attributable principal admitting diagnosis and number of HDDs was identified for participants with alcohol dependence or high problem perception.

Conclusions:  Among medical inpatients with nondependent unhealthy alcohol use and those who do not view their drinking as problematic, alcohol‐attributable illness may catalyze decreased drinking. Brief interventions that highlight alcohol‐related illness might be more successful.
Inositol hexaphosphate–loaded red blood cells prevent in vitro sickling
Authors: Bourgeaux Vanessa , Hequet Olivier , Campion Yannick , Delcambre Gaëlle , Chevrier Anne‐Marie , Rigal Dominique , Godfrin Yann
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND: Hypoxia is a major cause of painful vaso‐occlusive crisis in sickle cell disease (SCD). Simple transfusion and red blood cell (RBC) exchange are commonly used as preventive therapies whose aim is to dilute hemoglobin (Hb)S‐containing RBCs (SS‐RBCs) with normal RBCs (AA‐RBCs) to prevent sickling. We hypothesized that the effectiveness of transfusion could be improved by the encapsulation of inositol hexaphosphate (IHP), an allosteric Hb effector, in transfused AA‐RBCs. Indeed, apart from their diluting effect on SS‐RBCs, IHP‐loaded RBCs (IHP‐RBCs) with increased oxygen release capacity could palliate in vivo oxygen deprivation and reduce sickling.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The study was designed to investigate the therapeutic effect of IHP‐RBCs transfusion on in vitro sickling of SS‐RBCs collected from 20 SCD patients. Patients' RBCs were diluted with various proportions of IHP‐RBCs or AA‐RBCs (processed or stored RBCs as controls). Resulting suspensions were subjected to deoxygenation followed by partial reoxygenation at 5% oxygen. Sickling was evaluated by microscopy.

RESULTS: Stored RBCs (50% dose) used to mimic simple transfusion exhibited a poor antisickling effect (5.6%) and a low response rate (65%). In contrast, IHP‐RBCs treatment was seven times more effective resulting in 35% of sickling reduction and a 94% response rate. Sickling was inhibited in a dose‐dependent manner: 9.9, 25.1, and 35.0% for IHP‐RBCs in percentages of 10, 30, and 50%, respectively.

CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that IHP‐RBCs prevent in vitro sickling and suggest that it could improve conventional transfusion therapy in terms of transfused volume, frequency, and efficacy.
Ventricular Tachyarrhythmia Associated with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Incidence, Prognosis, and Relation to Type of Hypertrophy
Authors: FURUSHIMA HIROSHI , CHINUSHI MASAOMI , IIJIMA KENICHI , SANADA AKIKO , IZUMI DAISUKE , HOSAKA YUKIO , AIZAWA YOSHIFUSA
Published: May 2010

VT Associated with HCM. Objective: To assess the incidence, characteristics, and prognosis of ventricular tachyarrhythmia in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Patients: The study consisted of 66 consecutive patients with HCM who were admitted to Niigata University Hospital between 1992 and 2005. Their clinical characteristics and ECG morphology were investigated according to the type of HCM.

Results: The type of HCM was asymmetric hypertrophy (ASH) in 34 patients (51%), obstructive HCM (HOCM) in 9 (14%), apical HCM (ApHCM) in 14 (21%), and midventricular obstruction (MVO) in 9 (14%). The cause of admission was ventricular tachyarrhythmia in 25 patients (38%), unexplained syncope in 11 (17%), and heart failure in 30 (45%). Sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (SMVT) occurred in 19 patients and ventricular fibrillation in 6. In the 19 patients with SMVT, 12 had MVO and 3 of these had previous apHCM. Six of the 19 patients with SMVT had ASH, and 3 had abnormal apical wall motion. In 14 patients, the SMVT appeared to originate from the apical aneurysm based on the morphology of the tachycardia. Ventricular tachyarrhythmia recurred in 14 of the 25 patients (56%), and 4 of the 18 patients with an ICD had electrical storm. ASH with abnormal wall motion of the LV apex or MVO was recognized in the 4 patients with electrical storm; they commonly had abnormal Q waves and ST elevation in leads V4–V6.

Conclusion: Ventricular tachyarrhythmia was responsible for 38% of hospitalizations in HCM, and SMVT occurred in patients with MVO and/or with abnormal wall motion of the LV apex. Electrical storm was more common in patients with ST elevation in precordial leads V4–V6. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 991‐999, September 2010)
Latent Profile Approach to Duration of Stalking
Authors: Björklund Katja , Häkkänen‐Nyholm Helinä , Sheridan Lorraine , Roberts Karl , Tolvanen Asko
Published: May 2010

Abstract:  Stalking behavior and victim–stalker relationship are often the principal known factors in a stalking case. Thus, they are of great importance when trying to identify factors contributing to stalking duration. The present study aims to identify distinct subgroups of stalking victims based on measures of behavioral stalking dimensions. These victim subgroups, stalking dimensions, and victim–stalker relationship are examined in relation to stalking duration. Using a sample of 137 university students, latent profile analysis (LPA) revealed five distinct victim subgroups based on stalker behavior dimensions: surveillance, low‐profile, social lurker, wide scope, and baseline stalkers. The subgroups were significantly related to stalking duration and explained a considerable amount of the variance along with the stalking dimensions and victim–stalker relationship. Connections to stalking literature and utility of person‐orientated methods in stalking research are discussed.
Sensitivity of the Luminol Test with Blue Denim
Authors: Middlestead Caitlyn , Thornton John
Published: May 2010

Abstract:  An article appearing in this journal in 2000 suggested that the sensitivity of the luminol test performed on denim fabric is usually no greater than at a 1:100 dilution of blood. This study shows that the luminol test may be unambiguously interpreted at substantially greater dilutions of blood. In this study, four different types of denim were tested by spraying a swatch of fabric with a typical formulation of the luminol reagent. Testing was conducted of dilutions of blood up to 1:1000, all of which showed distinct chemiluminescence. Diluted blood was applied to denim material in the form of a random number. A successful test was obtained only when a “blind” observer, i.e., an observer who was uninformed of the number, correctly reported the number.
Magnetic Fingerprint Powder from a Mineral Indigenous to Thailand
Authors: Thonglon Thatsanee , Chaikum Nopadol
Published: May 2010

Abstract:  A study was conducted to investigate whether natural magnetite (Fe3O4), which is an abundant mineral in Thailand, could be used as a magnetic powder in the detection of latent fingerprints. Because of the presence of impurities, powdered magnetite is only weakly attracted by a magnet and cannot be used as a magnetic fingerprint powder by itself. Mixing a small amount of magnetite powder with nickel powder greatly enhances the magnetic attraction. A mixture of magnetite powder and nickel powder in a mass ratio of approximately 1:100 was found to be suitable for use as a magnetic fingerprint powder. Fingerprints developed using the magnetite/nickel mixture on nonporous surfaces were found to exhibit good adherence and clarity. Using an automated fingerprint identification system, the number of minutiae detected in fingerprints developed by using the prepared powder on nonporous surfaces was found to be comparable to those detected in fingerprints developed by using a commercial black magnetic powder. The cost is lowered by more than 60%.
Considerations on the ASTM Standards 1789‐04 and 1422‐05 on the Forensic Examination of Ink
Authors: Neumann Cedric , Margot Pierre
Published: May 2010

Abstract:  The ASTM standards on Writing Ink Identification (ASTM 1789‐04) and on Writing Ink Comparison (ASTM 1422‐05) are the most up‐to‐date guidelines that have been published on the forensic analysis of ink. The aim of these documents is to cover most aspects of the forensic analysis of ink evidence, from the analysis of ink samples, the comparison of the analytical profile of these samples (with the aim to differentiate them or not), through to the interpretation of the result of the examination of these samples in a forensic context. Significant evolutions in the technology available to forensic scientists, in the quality assurance requirements brought onto them, and in the understanding of frameworks to interpret forensic evidence have been made in recent years. This article reviews the two standards in the light of these evolutions and proposes some practical improvements in terms of the standardization of the analyses, the comparison of ink samples, and the interpretation of ink examination. Some of these suggestions have already been included in a DHS funded project aimed at creating a digital ink library for the United States Secret Service.
The effect of diabetes mellitus on osseous healing
Authors: Retzepi M. , Donos N.
Published: May 2010

Abstract: Diabetes mellitus and, in particular, type 1 diabetes has been associated with impaired osseous wound healing properties. The scope of the present review is to discuss the clinical evidence supporting a higher rate of complications during fracture healing in diabetic patients and the histological evidence indicating impaired potential for intramembranous and endochondral ossification in the presence of uncontrolled experimental diabetes. The article further provides a synthesis of our current understanding of the plausible molecular mechanisms underlying the diabetic bone healing pathophysiology and of the role of insulin treatment in promoting osseous healing in the diabetic status.

To cite this article:
 Retzepi M, Donos N. The effect of diabetes mellitus on osseous healing. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 673–681. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.01923.x
BioMove – an integrated platform simulating the dynamic response of species to environmental change
Authors: Midgley Guy F. , Davies Ian D. , Albert Cécile H. , Altwegg Res , Hannah Lee , Hughes Gregory O. , O'Halloran Lydia R. , Seo Changwan , Thorne James H. , Thuiller Wilfried
Published: May 2010

BioMove simulates plant species' geographic range shifts in response to climate, habitat structure and disturbance, at annual time steps. This spatially explicit approach integrates species' bioclimatic suitability and population‐level demographic rates with simulation of landscape‐level processes (dispersal, disturbance, species' response to dynamic dominant vegetation structure). Species population dynamics are simulated through matrix modelling that includes scaling demographic rates by climatic suitability. Dispersal functions simulate population spread. User‐specified plant functional types (PFTs) provide vegetation structure that determines resource competition and disturbance. PFTs respond annually through dispersal, inter‐PFT competition and demographic shifts. BioMove provides a rich framework for dynamic range simulations.
What drives fine‐scale movements of large herbivores? A case study using moose
Authors: Leblond Mathieu , Dussault Christian , Ouellet Jean‐Pierre
Published: May 2010

Understanding animal movements across heterogeneous landscapes is of great interest because it helps explain the dynamic processes influencing the distribution of individuals in space. Research on how animals move relative to short‐range environmental characteristics are scarce. Our objective was to determine the variables influencing movement of a large ungulate, the moose Alces alces, ranging across a boreal landscape, and to link movement behaviour with limiting factors at a fine scale. We assessed 7 candidate models composed of vegetation, solar energy, and topography variables using step selection functions (SSF) for male and female moose across daily and annual periods. We selected and weighted models using the Bayesian Information Criterion. Variables influencing small‐scale movements of moose differed among periods and between sexes, likely in response to corresponding changes in the importance of limiting factors. Best models often combined many types of variables, although simpler models composed of only vegetation or topography variables explained male's movements during rut and early winter. Moose steps were observed in good feeding stands from summer to early winter for females and from spring to early winter for males, supporting other studies of moose habitat selection. From summer to early winter, females alternatively selected and avoided cover stands during day and night, respectively. Solar energy reaching the ground was important, particularly during late winter and spring, likely due to its effect on snow cover, air temperature, or plant phenology. Moose generally moved in gentle slopes and variable elevation, which may have increased their chances of finding high quality forage, or improved their search of suitable calving sites or mates. Our study revealed the great complexity and dynamic aspects of animal movements in a heterogeneous landscape. Analysis of animal movement provides complementary information to more static habitat selection analyses and helps understanding the spatial variations in the distribution of individuals through time.
Grizzly bear movements relative to roads: application of step selection functions
Authors: Roever Carrie L. , Boyce Mark S. , Stenhouse Gordon B.
Published: May 2010

Access management is among the most important conservation actions for grizzly bears in North America. In Alberta, Canada, nearly all grizzly bear mortalities are caused by humans and occur near roads and trails. Consequently, understanding how bears move relative to roads is of crucial importance for grizzly bear conservation. We present the first application of step‐selection functions to model habitat selection and movement of grizzly bears. We then relate this to a step‐length analysis to model the rate of movement through various habitats. Grizzly bears of all sex and age groups were more likely to select steps closer to roads irrespective of traffic volume. Roads are associated with habitats attractive to bears such as forestry cutblocks, and models substituting cutblocks for roads outperformed road models in predicting bear selection during day, dawn, and dusk time periods. Bear step lengths increased near roads and were longest near highly trafficked roads indicating faster movement when near roads. Bear selection of roads was consistent throughout the day; however, time of day had a strong influence over selection of forest structure and terrain variables. At night and dawn, bears selected forests of intermediate age between 40 and 100 yr, and bears selected older forests during the day. At dawn, bears selected steps with higher solar radiation values, whereas, at dusk, bears chose steps that were significantly closer to edges. Because grizzly bears use areas near roads during spring and most human‐caused mortalities occur near roads, access management is required to reduce conflicts between humans and bears. Our results support new conservation guidelines in western North America that encourage the restriction of human access to roads constructed for resource extraction.
Reduction of different inflammatory cell types of the innate immune system in psoriatic skin during etanercept treatment
Authors: De Groot Marjan , Teunissen Marcel B.M. , Picavet Daisy I. , De Rie Menno A. , Bos Jan D.
Published: May 2010

Please cite this paper as: Reduction of different inflammatory cell types of the innate immune system in psoriatic skin during etanercept treatment. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: 754–756.

Abstract:  To investigate whether specific markers for innate immunity would diminish with successful treatment in psoriasis, we analyzed lesional and non‐lesional skin biopsies taken from patients with moderate to severe psoriasis during 12 weeks of treatment with etanercept in correlation with the clinical response. In the clinical responders (PASI reduction >50%), all markers (CD3, CD68, CD161, elastase, BDCA‐2, TNF‐α) showed a decline during treatment, indicating a pivotal role for innate immunity in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
A modified cognitive behavioural model as a method to improve adherence to oral hygiene instructions – a pilot study
Authors: Fjellström M , Yakob M , Söder B
Published: May 2010

To cite this article:
 
Int J Dent Hygiene 8, 2010; 178–182 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2010.00457.x Fjellström M, Yakob M, Söder B. A modified cognitive behavioural model as a method to improve adherence to oral hygiene instructions – a pilot study.

Abstract:  Objective:  The purpose of this project was to create a modified CBT model to determine the impact on increased adherence to oral hygiene instructions. In a pilot study test, this model was compared with traditional instructions.

Method:  Tools developed and tested in this pilot study were a self‐reporting questionnaire, a visual information consisting of pictures and a diary to document according to a modified CBT method. Four participants were divided into two groups, control group and CBT group. At the first visit, all participants answered a self‐reporting questionnaire. The clinical examination consisted of measuring the PI, GI and GBI. The same information and instructions were given. All received toothbrushes, dental floss and professional tooth cleaning. The CBT group was instructed to document their feelings and thoughts in a diary. After 3 weeks, the participants answered the same questionnaire, and the same clinical measurements were conducted at the re‐examination. The CBT group brought their diaries for evaluation.

Result:  At the end of the study, there was a difference in PI, GI and GBI between the groups. The levels of PI, GI and GBI had decreased more in the CBT group than in the control group. The questionnaire also showed that the CBT group had increased their knowledge and awareness about oral health.

Conclusion:  This pilot study shows that using a modified model of CBT, by keeping a diary, resulted in increased adherence to oral hygiene and knowledge about gingivitis, compared with traditional instructions.
Functional neural correlates of mindfulness meditations in comparison with psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and placebo effect. Is there a link?
Authors: Chiesa Alberto , Brambilla Paolo , Serretti Alessandro
Published: May 2010

Chiesa A, Brambilla P, Serretti A. Functional neural correlates of mindfulness meditations in comparison with psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and placebo effect. Is there a link?

Objective:

Mindfulness meditations (MM) are a group of meditation practices which are increasingly receiving attention. The aim of the present work is to review current findings about the neural correlates of MM and compare such findings with other specific and non-specific treatments.

Methods:

A literature search was undertaken using MEDLINE, ISI web of knowledge, the Cochrane database and references of retrieved articles. Studies which focused on the functional neural correlates of MM, psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and placebo published up to August 2009 were screened in order to be considered for the inclusion.

Results:

Main findings suggest that long-term MM practice allows a more flexible emotional regulation by engaging frontal cortical structures to dampen automatic amygdala activation. A large overlap exists between cerebral areas activated during MM, psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and those activated by placebo. However, while MM, psychotherapy and placebo seem to act through a top-down regulation, antidepressants seem to act through a bottom-up process.

Conclusion:

MM seem to target specific brain areas related to emotions and emotional regulation. Similar mechanisms have been observed also in other interventions, particularly psychotherapy.
Social adversity predicts ADHD‐medication in school children – a national cohort study
Authors: Hjern A , Weitoft GR , Lindblad F
Published: May 2010

Aims:  To test the hypothesis that psychosocial adversity in the family predicts medicated ADHD in school children.

Method:  ADHD‐medication during 2006 was identified in the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register in national birth cohorts of 1.1 million 6–19 year olds. Logistic regression models adjusted for parental psychiatric disorders were used to test our hypothesis.

Results:  There was a clear gradient for ADHD medication with level of maternal education, with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.20 (2.04–2.38) for the lowest compared with the highest level. Lone parenthood and reception of social welfare also implied higher risks of ADHD‐medication with adjusted ORs of 1.45 (1.38–1.52) and 2.06 (1.92–2.21) respectively. Low maternal education predicted 33% of cases with medicated ADHD and single parenthood 14%.

Conclusions:  Social adversity in the family predicts a considerable proportion of ADHD‐medication in school children in Sweden.
Thimerosal exposure (from tetanus‐diphtheria vaccine) during pregnancy and neurodevelopment of breastfed infants at 6 months
Authors: Marques RC , Dórea JG , Bernardi JVE
Published: May 2010

Aim:  We studied the effect on neurodevelopment of infants who are exposed to thimerosal in tetanus‐diphtheria (Td) vaccines during pregnancy.

Methods:  We compared Gesell Developmental Schedules (GDS) of exclusive breastfed infants at 6 months born to mothers who received Td (1 to 3 doses) against those who were born to mothers who did not take such vaccines.

Results:  Compared with the group of infants not exposed to ethylmercury in utero, the infants of exposed mothers showed no significant difference in neurodevelopment delays. Although there was a significant correlation between hair‐Hg of mothers and hair‐Hg of neonates (Spearman r = 0.353; p = 0.0011), there was no significant correlation between the level of in utero exposure to ethylmercury in Td vaccines and neonate’s hair‐Hg concentrations (Spearman r = 0.060; p = 0.5922). However, regression analysis showed that GDS at 6 months was significantly associated with total mercury concentration of neonate’s hair but was not sensitive to the number of vaccines taken by the mother.

Conclusion:  Early neurodevelopment of exclusively breastfed infants is sensitive to in utero exposure to mercury, but maternal thimerosal exposure in tetanus‐diphtheria vaccines per se cannot portend clinical neurodevelopment delays measured by GDS at 6 months.
Brief report: validity of Finnish registry‐based diagnoses of autism with the ADI‐R
Authors: Lampi KM , Sourander A , Gissler M , Niemelä S , Rehnström K , Pulkkinen E , Peltonen L , Von Wendt L
Published: May 2010

Aims:  The aim of the study was to explore the validity of registry‐based diagnoses of autism in Finland using the Autism Diagnostic Interview – Revised (ADI‐R). This study was designed for the Finnish Prenatal Study of Autism and Autism Spectrum Disorders (FIPS‐A), an ongoing research project where registry‐based diagnoses will be used for epidemiological studies.

Methods:  In this small pilot study, a clinical sample of 95 subjects diagnosed with childhood autism or pervasive developmental disorder/pervasive developmental disorder – not otherwise specified (PDD/PDD‐NOS) or Asperger′s syndrome according to the Finnish Hospital Discharge Register (FHDR) was gathered nationwide. A small control group consisting of siblings without any registered diagnoses of those being examined was also included in the study. Diagnoses were further re‐evaluated by interviewing parents with the ADI‐R.

Results:  The mean scores of autistic subjects clearly exceeded cut‐off limits for autism on all three ADI‐R domains and 96% of the subjects with registered diagnosis of childhood autism fulfilled the criteria based on the instrument as well.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that the validity of Finnish registry‐based diagnoses of childhood autism can be considered good. Our findings lay important groundwork for further population‐ based studies of the aetiology of autism.
Follow‐up of adolescents born extremely preterm: cognitive function and health at 18 years of age
Authors: Hallin Anne‐Li , Hellström‐Westas Lena , Stjernqvist Karin
Published: May 2010

Aim:  To compare cognitive ability, school achievement and self‐perceived health aspects in adolescents born extremely preterm and term born controls.

Method:  Fifty‐two, out of 61, extremely preterm born adolescents (mean age 18.4 years) and 54 matched controls (mean age 18.3 years) born at full term were investigated; intelligence quotient was measured with the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale; cognitive flexibility, i.e. a measure of visuomotor speed and attention, with the Trail Making Test; school achievement and choice of upper secondary programmes were reported. Health aspects were investigated in a semi structured interview.

Result:  The adolescents born prematurely had significantly lower IQ than the controls, mean 93 (SD 15.4) vs 106 (12.5), p < 0.001; showed slower visuomotor speed; had lower grades from compulsory school (192.7 vs 234.8, p < 0.001); and chose to a greater extent practical upper secondary school programmes. There were no differences between the groups in health care consumption, prevalence of chronic disease, allergy or infectious diseases.

Conclusion:  Poorer cognitive performance, in extremely preterm born individuals, seems to persist into late adolescence. Fewer prematurely born than control chose theoretical upper secondary school programmes. However, no difference was noted regarding self‐perceived health aspects.
Process and product innovation: A differential game approach to product life cycle
Authors: Lambertini Luca , Mantovani Andrea
Published: May 2010

We investigate the timing of adoption of product and process innovation using a differential game where firms may invest in both activities. We consider horizontal product innovation that reduces product substitutability, and process innovation that reduces marginal cost. First, we demonstrate that the incentive for cost‐reducing investment is relatively higher than the incentive to increase product differentiation. Second, depending on initial conditions: (i) firms activate both types of investment from the very outset to the steady state; (ii) firms initially invest in only one R&D activity and then reach the steady state either carrying out only this activity or carrying out both; or (iii) firms do not invest at all in either type of innovation. Comparing R&D investments under Cournot and Bertrand behavior shows that quantity competition entails lower R&D incentives than price competition in both directions.
An ex vivo Multi-Electrode Approach to Evaluate Endogenous Hormones and Receptor Subtype Pharmacology on Evoked and Spontaneous Neuronal Activity within the Ventromedial Hypothalamus; Translation from Female Receptivity
Authors: Booth Clair , Wayman Christopher P. , Jackson Vivienne Margaret
Published: May 2010

Introduction

The ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) controls female rodent copulatory behavior, which can be modulated by injection of various compounds into the VMH.

Aim

The aim was to determine whether evoked excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) or single-unit activity within the VMH ex vivo is a better parameter to predict lordosis.

Methods

VMH slices were placed onto a 64 microelectrode chip and spontaneous single-unit activity was recorded or slices stimulated to evoke EPSPs.

Main Outcome Measures

The sodium channel blocker, tetrodotoxin and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA)/kainate antagonist, 6,7-dinitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (DNQX) inhibited EPSPs, confirming EPSPs were glutamatergic in origin. The GABAA antagonist bicuculline potentiated EPSPs implying endogenous GABA tone. Single-unit activity was abolished by tetrodotoxin but unaffected by DNQX or bicuculline.

Results

Glutamatergic neurotransmission was greatest during metestrous and following ovariectomization. The number of regions within the VMH eliciting single-unit activity was reduced following ovariectomy without changing spike frequency. Adrenergic agents increasing lordosis via the VMH in vivo, decreased glutamate neurotransmission but increased single-unit activity. Conversely, agents decreasing lordosis via the VMH increased glutamatergic neurotransmission and inhibited single-unit activity (8-OH-DPAT, [D-Ala2, N-Me-Phe4, Gly-ol5]-enkephalin, corticotropin releasing factor, bicuculline). Melanocortin and pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide agonists had no effect.

Conclusions

Here we present a novel, robust VMH in vitro technique that (i) is consistent with the hypothesis that glutamate via non-NMDA receptors inhibits lordosis; (ii) glutamate is under the endogenous tone of GABA and steroid hormones; (iii) inhibition of lordosis during metestrous and following ovariectomy potentiates glutamatergic neurotransmission; (iv) activation of Gq- and Gi-coupled receptors decreases and increases glutamate neurotransmission, respectively, with an inverse correlation on single-unit activity; (v) activation of Gs-coupled receptors has no direct effect on glutamate or single-unit activity; and (vi) potency, receptor subtypes and localization can be determined prior to in vivo studies.
Sexual Dysfunction after Rectal Surgery: A Retrospective Study of Men without Disease Recurrence
Authors: Zugor Vahudin , Miskovic Ivica , Lausen Berthold , Matzel Klaus , Hohenberger Werner , Schreiber Mathias , Labanaris Apostolos P. , Neuhuber Winfried , Witt Jörn , Schott Günter E.
Published: May 2010

Introduction

Sexual dysfunction is a frequent complication of visceral surgery after rectal resections as a result of carcinoma of the rectum.

Aim

The purpose of our study is to assess the incidence and form of sexual dysfunction in our own population of patients.

Methods

The study comprised all patients who had undergone surgery for carcinoma of the rectum at the Erlangen Surgery University Hospital, Germany, in the period 2000–04. All male patients were retrospectively surveyed and asked to complete standardized (International Index of Erectile Function 15) questionnaires regarding their pre- and postsurgical sexual function. One hundred and forty-five questionnaires could be analyzed. The statistical evaluation was conducted with aid of the SPSS statistics program. The univariate analysis was carried out with the chi-square test and the U-test (Mann–Whitney Test).

Main Outcome Measures

Erectile dysfunction, libido, and ability to have and sustain ejaculation and orgasm (both before and after surgery in each case) were among the dependent variables when compiling the data. The impact various surgical procedures and radiochemotherapy had on the severity of the sexual dysfunctions was analyzed. The scope of the postoperative urological care given was also assessed.

Results

Erectile dysfunction was confirmed in N=112 patients (77.3%) after surgery (P-value<0.001). Other parameters such as orgasm capacity (4.1% vs. 16.5%), ejaculation ability (1.4% vs. 12.4%) and libido (3.4% vs. 22%) also showed a marked deterioration postoperatively. Postoperative erectile dysfunction was present in 77% of the patients with a colostomy and in 88.5% of the patients who had received neoadjuvant radiation.

Conclusions

Male erectile dysfunction is a frequent complication after rectal resection as a result of carcinoma of the rectum. The high incidence of sexual dysfunctions results from the radical nature of the procedure and from additional radiation or colostomy therapy. These patients need accompanying urological care for treatment of their sexual dysfunction.
IIEF-15: Unsuitable for Assessing Erectile Function of Young Men?
Authors: Rynja Sybren , Bosch Ruud , Kok Esther , Wouters Gerlof , De Kort Laetitia
Published: May 2010

Introduction

The prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) is mainly studied in older males, whereas we measured prevalence of ED in young healthy males using a validated questionnaire.

Aim

Assessing the prevalence of ED in young adult men using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15) and creating a benchmark for ED in this young age group for further research.

Methods

Male students were randomly asked to participate. Men with history of sexual dysfunction or urologic disease were excluded. Age, having a relationship and the IIEF-15 were filled out anonymously and in private. Outcomes of all domains were separately analysed based on relationship and intercourse frequency.

Main Outcome Measures

ED measured by the IIEF-15.

Results

One hundred and fifty-one students, aged 21.8 years (17–35, SD 2.98) participated and 14 were excluded. Of 137 students, 81% reported to have an intimate relationship. ED appeared to be present in 46 students (33.6%). The answer “no sexual activity,” resulting in a 0-score, was given inconsistently. Outcomes were analysed for students who gave this answer at least once compared with those who never did. Nobody had ED in the group “without 0-scores” (n=91). All students in the group “with (inconsistent) 0-scores” (n=46) had ED. Students with a relationship had ED in 24.3% compared with 73.1% in those without a relationship (P <0.001).

Conclusion

When men with inconsistently answered IIEF-15 questionnaires are excluded, a 0% prevalence of ED is found in this age-group. The current scoring method however does not state that these questionnaires should be excluded, and results in a prevalence of ED of 34%. Possibly, the scoring method of the IIEF-15 needs to be reviewed when this questionnaire is used in young, healthy men in order to accurately measure the prevalence of ED.
Turbulence in the harassed galaxy NGC4254
Authors: Dutta Prasun , Begum Ayesha , Bharadwaj Somnath , Chengalur Jayaram N.
Published: May 2010

Galaxy harassment is an important mechanism for the morphological evolution of galaxies in clusters. The spiral galaxy NGC4254 in the Virgo cluster is believed to be a harassed galaxy. We have analysed the power spectrum of Hi emission fluctuations from NGC4254 to investigate whether it carries any imprint of galaxy harassment. The power spectrum, as determined using the 16 central channels which contain most of the Hi emission, is found to be well fitted by a power law P(U) =AUα with α=−1.7 ± 0.2 at length-scales 1.7 to 8.4kpc. This is similar to other normal spiral galaxies which have a slope of ∼−1.5 and is interpreted as arising from two-dimensional turbulence at length-scales larger than the galaxy's scaleheight. NGC4254 is hence yet another example of a spiral galaxy that exhibits scale-invariant density fluctuations out to length-scales comparable to the diameter of the Hi disc. While a large variety of possible energy sources like protostellar winds, supernovae, shocks, etc. have been proposed to produce turbulence, it is still to be seen whether these are effective on length-scales comparable to that of the entire Hi disc. On separately analysing the Hi power spectrum in different parts of NGC4254, we find that the outer parts have a different slope (α=−2.0 ± 0.3) compared to the central part of the galaxy (α=−1.5 ± 0.2). Such a change in slope is not seen in other, undisturbed galaxies. We suggest that, in addition to changing the overall morphology, galaxy harassment also affects the fine scale structure of the interstellar medium, causing the power spectrum to have a steeper slope in the outer parts.
The Novel Ketoprofen Amides – Synthesis and Biological Evaluation as Antioxidants, Lipoxygenase Inhibitors and Cytostatic Agents
Authors: Rajić Zrinka , Hadjipavlou‐Litina Dimitra , Pontiki Eleni , Kralj Marijeta , Šuman Lidija , Zorc Branka
Published: May 2010

The novel amides of ketoprofen and its reduced derivatives (5a–f, 4a–n, 6a–g) with aromatic and cycloalkyl amines or hydroxylamines were prepared and screened for their reducing and cytostatic activity as well as for their ability to inhibit soybean lipoxygenase and lipid peroxidation. 1,1‐Diphenyl‐picrylhydrazyl test for reducing ability revealed that ketoprofen amides were more potent antioxidants than the amides of the reduced ketoprofen derivatives. The most active compound was benzhydryl ketoprofen amide 5f. Lipoxygenase inhibition of the tested compounds varied from strong to very weak. The most potent compound was benzhydryl derivative 6f (IC50 = 20.5 μm). Aromatic and cycloalkyl amides 4 and 5 were more potent lipoxygenase inhibitors than derivatives with carboxylic group. Aromatic amides of series 4 and 5 showed excellent lipid peroxidation inhibition (92.2–99.9%). On the other hand, the most pronounced cytostatic activity was exerted by O‐benzyl derivative 4i, although in general all tested reduced and non‐reduced lipophilic derivatives showed similar activity.