bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How big is a self‐poured glass of wine for Australian drinkers?
Authors: Callinan Sarah
Published: May 2014

Introduction and Aims

To investigate the average self‐reported size of a self‐poured glass of wine for Australians aged 16 and over.

Design and Methods

Cross‐sectional survey data were taken from the first wave of the Australian arm of the International Alcohol Control study administered to 2020 Australians aged 16 and over with an oversampling of heavy drinkers. Respondents were asked about their usual consumption in eight locations, with specific questions asked about drink type and how much they consumed. The 639 respondents who stated that they drank bottled wine purchased at off‐licensed premises by the glass were asked ‘How many glasses do you get to a bottle?’

Results

On average, small, generic‐sized and large glasses were 144, 156 and 166 mL respectively, with an average glass size of 154 mL overall.

Discussion and Conclusions

Wine drinkers may be underestimating their own consumption due to large glass sizes, and survey data estimates of wine consumption should also be adjusted to account for glass size. The way a standard drink of wine is presented in health promotion materials should also be considered in light of these findings. [Callinan S. How big is a self‐poured glass of wine for Australian drinkers? Drug Alcohol Rev 2015;34:207–10]
CYP2D6 genotyping in paediatric patients with autism treated with risperidone: a preliminary cohort study
Authors: Youngster Ilan , Zachor Ditza A , Gabis Lidia V , Bar‐Chaim Adina , Benveniste‐Levkovitz Patricia , Britzi Malka , Soback Stefan , Ziv‐Baran Tomer , Berkovitch Matitiahu
Published: May 2014

Aim

To evaluate the association between cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) phenotypes in paediatric patients with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) treated with risperidone, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and drug efficacy.

Method

An observational cohort study of 40 children (34 males, six females; median age 7y range 3–18y) with autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified, or Asperger syndrome diagnosed using the Autism Diagnostic Interview‐Revised and treated with risperidone for at least 3 months. Charts were reviewed for demographic and clinical information, response to treatment was assessed by parents and the treating neurologist on a three‐point scale, and information about ADRs was collected. Trough plasma levels of risperidone and its metabolites were determined and CYP2D6 genotyping was performed.

Results

Twenty‐six patients responded to therapy and 11 patients exhibited ADRs. CYP2D6 genotyping showed two patients to be poor metabolizers, two ultra‐rapid metabolizers, seven intermediate metabolizers, and 29 extensive metabolizers. Both ultra‐rapid metabolizer patients were non‐responders and had no ADRs. In contrast, both poor metabolizer patients were responders but experienced ADRs. No correlation was found between risperidone dosage and either risperidone or drug metabolite plasma levels. There was no difference in risperidone or metabolite plasma levels when comparing responders to non‐responders, or when comparing patients with or without ADRs.

Interpretation

In patients with ASD treated with risperidone, a CYP2D6 phenotype may be associated with response to treatment and development of ADRs.
Quo vadis amphibia? Global warming and breeding phenology in frogs, toads and salamanders
Authors: While Geoffrey M. , Uller Tobias
Published: May 2014

As the earth is getting warmer, many animals and plants have shifted their timing of breeding towards earlier dates. However, there is substantial variation between populations in phenological shifts that typically goes unexplained. Identification of the different location and species characteristics that drive such variable responses to global warming is crucial if we are to make predictions for how projected climate change scenarios will play out on local and global scales. Here we conducted a phylogenetically controlled meta‐analysis of breeding phenology across frogs, toads and salamanders to examine the extent of variation in amphibian breeding phenology in response to global climate change. We show that there is strong geographic variation in response to global climate change, with species at higher latitudes exhibiting a more pronounced shift to earlier breeding than those at lower latitudes. Our analyses suggest that this latitude effect is a result of both the increased temperature (but not precipitation) at higher latitudes as well as a greater responsiveness by northern populations of amphibians to this change in temperature. We suggest that these effects should reinforce any direct effect of increasing warming at higher latitudes on breeding phenology. In contrast, we found very little contribution from other location factors or species traits. There was no evidence for a phylogenetic signal on advancing breeding phenology or responsiveness to temperature, suggesting that the amphibians that have been studied to date respond similarly to global warming.
Apoptosis induced by Aβ25–35 peptide is Ca2+‐IP3 signaling‐dependent in murine astrocytes
Authors: Oseki K. T. , Monteforte P. T. , Pereira G. J. S. , Hirata H. , Ureshino R. P. , Bincoletto C. , Hsu Y.‐T. , Smaili S. S.
Published: May 2014

Although the accumulation of the neurotoxic peptide β‐amyloid (Aβ) in the central nervous system is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease, whether Aβ acts in astrocytes is unclear, and downstream functional consequences have yet to be defined. Here, we show that cytosolic Ca2+ dysregulation, induced by a neurotoxic fragment (Aβ25–35), caused apoptosis in a concentration‐dependent manner, leading to cytoplasmic Ca2+ mobilization from extra‐ and intracellular sources, mainly from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) via IP3 receptor activation. This mechanism was related to Aβ‐mediated apoptosis by the intrinsic pathway because the expression of pro‐apoptotic Bax was accompanied by its translocation in cells transfected with GFP‐Bax. Aβ‐mediated apoptosis was reduced by BAPTA‐AM, a fast Ca2+ chelator, indicating that an increase in intracellular Ca2+ was involved in cell death. Interestingly, the Bax translocation was dependent on Ca2+ mobilization from IP3 receptors because pre‐incubation with xestospongin C, a selective IP3 receptor inhibitor, abolished this response. Taken together, these results provide evidence that Aβ dysregulation of Ca2+ homeostasis induces ER depletion of Ca2+ stores and leads to apoptosis; this mechanism plays a significant role in Aβ apoptotic cell death and might be a new target for neurodegeneration treatments.
Comparative analysis of orientation maps in areas 17 and 18 of the cat primary visual cortex following adaptation
Authors: Cattan Sarah , Bachatene Lyes , Bharmauria Vishal , Jeyabalaratnam Jeyadarshan , Milleret Chantal , Molotchnikoff Stéphane
Published: May 2014

Object orientations in the visual field are columned into specific orientation domains in the primary visual cortex [area 17 (A17) and area 18 (A18)] of cats. At the single‐cell level, adapting A17 neurons to a non‐preferred orientation (adaptor) shifts their preferred orientation either towards the adaptor (attractive shift) or away from it (repulsive shift). As A17 and A18 are reciprocally connected, we sought to determine how changes in preferred orientations in A18 neurons are correlated with changes recorded in A17 anesthetised cats. To this end, we simultaneously traced populations of neurons in A17 and A18, using intrinsic optical imaging, before and after long (12 min) and short (3 min) adaptations. The comparison of A17 and A18 maps pre‐adaptation and post‐adaptation showed that variance in shift amplitudes is greater in A18 than A17 for short adaptations. Our results indicate a rapid reconfiguration of functional maps that may spread to many cortical areas.
The Drosophila Kctd‐family homologue Kctd12‐like modulates male aggression and mating behaviour
Authors: Williams Michael J. , Goergen Philip , Phad Ganesh , Fredriksson Robert , Schiöth Helgi B.
Published: May 2014

In Drosophila, serotonin (5‐HT) regulates aggression, mating behaviour and sleep/wake behaviour through different receptors. Currently, how these various receptors are themselves regulated is still not completely understood. The KCTD12‐family of proteins, which have been shown to modify G‐protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR) signalling in mammals, are one possibility of auxiliary proteins modulating 5‐HT receptor signalling. The KCTD12‐family was found to be remarkably conserved and present in species from C. elegans to humans. The Drosophila KCTD12 homologue Kctd12‐like (Ktl) was highly expressed in both the larval and adult CNS. By performing behavioural assays in male Drosophila, we now reveal that Ktl is required for proper male aggression and mating behaviour. Previously, it was shown that Ktl is in a complex with the Drosophila 5‐HT receptor 5‐HT7, and we observed that both Ktl and the 5‐HT1A receptor are required in insulin‐producing cells (IPCs) for proper adult male behaviour, as well as for hyperaggressive activity induced by the mammalian 5‐HT1A receptor agonist 8‐hydroxy‐2‐dipropylaminotetralin‐hydrobromide. Finally, we show that Ktl expression in the IPCs is necessary to regulate locomotion and normal sleep/wake patterns in Drosophila, but not the 5‐HT1A receptor. Similar to what was observed with mammalian KCTD12‐family members that interact physically with a GPCR receptor to regulate desensitization, in Drosophila Ktl may function in GPCR 5‐HT receptor pathways to regulate their signalling, which is required for proper adult male behaviour.
Cholinergic excitation in mouse primary vs. associative cortex: region‐specific magnitude and receptor balance
Authors: Tian Michael K. , Bailey Craig D. C. , Lambe Evelyn K.
Published: May 2014

Cholinergic stimulation of the cerebral cortex is essential for tasks requiring attention; however, there is still some debate over which cortical regions are required for such tasks. There is extensive cholinergic innervation of both primary and associative cortices, and transient release of acetylcholine (ACh) is detected in deep layers of the relevant primary and/or associative cortex, depending on the nature of the attention task. Here, we investigated the electrophysiological effects of ACh in layer VI, the deepest layer, of the primary somatosensory cortex, the primary motor cortex, and the associative medial prefrontal cortex. Layer VI pyramidal neurons are a major source of top‐down modulation of attention, and we found that the strength and homogeneity of their direct cholinergic excitation was region‐specific. On average, neurons in the primary cortical regions showed weaker responses to ACh, mediated by a balance of contributions from both nicotinic and muscarinic ACh receptors. Conversely, neurons in the associative medial prefrontal cortex showed significantly stronger excitation by ACh, mediated predominantly by nicotinic receptors. The greatest diversity of responses to ACh was found in the primary somatosensory cortex, with only a subset of neurons showing nicotinic excitation. In a mouse model with attention deficits only under demanding conditions, cholinergic excitation was preserved in primary cortical regions but not in the associative medial prefrontal cortex. These findings demonstrate that the effect of ACh is not uniform throughout the cortex, and suggest that its ability to enhance attention performance may involve different cellular mechanisms across cortical regions.
Late Pleistocene ‐ Holocene palaeosols in the north of Sonora, Mexico: chronostratigraphy, pedogenesis and implications for environmental history
Authors: Cruz‐y‐Cruz T. , Sedov S. , Sánchez G. , Pi‐Puig T. , Pustovoytov K. , Barceinas‐Cruz H. , Ortega‐Guerrero B. , Solleiro‐Rebolledo E.
Published: May 2014

Red palaeosols of the late Pleistocene‐early Holocene, both buried and non‐buried, were studied recently in Sonora (NW Mexico) to reconstruct their pedogenesis as well as the palaeoenvironmental conditions. The alluvial palaeosol‐sedimentary sequence of the La Playa archaeological site is a key locality for the buried San Rafael palaeosol, which exhibits a 2Ah‐2Bw‐2BCk‐3Bgk profile and was defined as a Chromic Cambisol. Radiocarbon dates from pedogenic carbonates and charcoal set the soil formation interval between > 18 000 and 4300 calibrated years before present (cal. year BP). Micro‐morphological observations together with profile distribution of clay, carbonates, organic carbon, pedogenic iron oxides and rock magnetic properties indicated a strong eluvial‐illuvial redistribution of carbonates, moderate silicate weathering and gleying in the lower horizon. Although this soil was much more developed than the overlying syn‐sedimentary late Holocene Fluvisols, clay mineral composition and stable carbon isotope signatures of humus and carbonates were similar in both soils. We suggest that pedogenesis of the San Rafael palaeosol took place under a slightly more humid climate and relative geomorphic stability. This agrees with the regional palaeoclimate reconstruction, which indicates a moister climate during the Late Wisconsin glaciation (MIS 2). An abrupt termination of the San Rafael pedogenesis marked by disturbance and aridization features in the Ap horizon of the palaeosol could be linked to a global drought around 4200 years cal. year BP. Surface Chromic Cambisols in northern Sonora show similar pedogenetic characteristics to the buried red palaeosols of La Playa. They appear to be a relict component of the present day soil mantle.
Soil phosphorus retention in a Mediterranean pasture subjected to differential management
Authors: Serrano J. M. , Shahidian S. , Marques da silva J. R.
Published: May 2014

The objective of this study was to test a simple input‐output model to estimate soil phosphorus (P) retention over 12 years in a Mediterranean pasture. A 6‐ha permanent pasture field in Southern Portugal was subjected to different management systems in terms of grazing and fertilizer application. The soil and pasture were monitored and samples were geo‐referenced with RTK GPS. The model was developed to explain the effect of P fertilizer, based on the premise that P added through fertilizer and amounts removed in harvested plant products are the main fluxes affecting available P status, and was used to estimate the soil P retention. The results show that P fertilizer addition to Mediterranean grazed pastures on shallow soils influences several P dynamics under different grassland management systems. A positive linear relationship between the P budgets and the changes in measured P was demonstrated over the study periods. This work highlights the difficulty associated with the creation of recommendation maps for differentiated P fertilizer application in pastoral systems and indicates that before any accurate decision making, the historic knowledge of changes in the concentrations of P in the soil should be considered, as well as a prediction of the residual effects of applied nutrient. The importance of this knowledge increases when the aim is to use techniques and technologies for variable‐rate fertilizer application and implementation of site‐specific management strategies in the context of precision agriculture.
Role of allophanes in the accumulation of glomalin‐related soil protein in tropical soils (Martinique, French West Indies)
Authors: Woignier T. , Etcheverria P. , Borie F. , Quiquampoix H. , Staunton S.
Published: May 2014

Thermo‐stable, operationally defined soil protein, known as glomalin, may make an important contribution to carbon storage in soils. The term glomalin is used because this putative protein, or group of proteins, was originally thought to be produced only by Glomus fungi. There is currently little information on the glomalin‐related soil protein (GRSP) content of tropical soils, particularly allophanic soils that are known to have different carbon dynamics to temperate climate soils. We have measured the Bradford‐reactive GRSP content of soils sampled from forests and grasslands on the tropical island of Martinique and compared the observations with soil composition. Two operationally defined fractions of GRSP were measured, namely easily‐extractable and total GRSP. The contents of GRSP in moist soils were in the range of 2–36 g kg−1, accounting for about 8% of soil organic carbon, and were greater in topsoils than in corresponding subsoils. Both the GRSP contents and the fraction of soil organic carbon attributed to GRSP were greater than those reported for temperate climate soils. Both total and easily extractable GRSP contents were positively correlated to soil organic carbon content. The fraction of soil organic carbon that could be attributed to soil protein decreased with increasing allophane content for allophanic soils. No other trends of GRSP content with soil properties or land use were found. GRSP extraction was decreased about seven‐fold by air‐drying of soils, confirming the irreversible change in the soil microstructure of allophanic soils. Total and easily extractable GRSP were correlated and we conclude that both are good probes of thermo‐stable soil protein content for these soils. No attempt was made to verify the fungal origin of the protein detected.
Individual Signature in a Lekking Species: Visual and Acoustic Courtship Parameters May Help Discriminating Conspecifics in the Houbara Bustard
Authors: Cornec Clément , Hingrat Yves , Rybak Fanny
Published: May 2014

Selection pressures acting on both intrasexual competition and intersexual relationships may lead to the emphasis of individual variation and might thus lead to the expression of individual signature. This is particularly true in lek mating systems, where providing information on identity and/or quality to potential mates or congeners of the same sex can be essential for individuals to optimize their reproductive success. Visual and acoustic signals produced during the courtship of the lekking North African Houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata undulata), based on field data from wild birds, are investigated here for the first time. Results show that the vocal signals, called booms, are characterized by a very low frequency, a rare phenomenon in birds which should allow booms to propagate over long distances. Results also show that both visual and acoustic signals are individualized and stereotyped between males. Using three methods of analysis, we highlight the acoustic parameters likely to support vocal individual signature and show that such information mainly relies on frequency parameters.
Helicobacter pylori Dwelling on the Apical Surface of Gastrointestinal Epithelium Damages the Mucosal Barrier Through Direct Contact
Authors: Zhang Chen , Zhang Hongyu , Yu Lu , Cao Yi
Published: May 2014

Background

Epithelial junctions and mucins compose a major portion of the mucosal barrier. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections induce alterations of the tight junctions and adherens junctions in epithelial cells, although the precise mechanisms underlying this process are not fully understood.

Methods

The expression of adhesion molecules and MUC1 was systematically investigated in gastrointestinal epithelial cells infected with H. pylori in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, we developed several new in vitro methods to study the relationships between the bacterium and the dysfunction of tight junctions using Boyden Chambers.

Results

The expression of a series of junctional molecules and MUC1 decreased in the cultured cells that were infected with H. pylori. According to the degree of damage at the tight junctions, direct contact of H. pylori with the apical membrane of the cells resulted in the greatest increase in permeability compared to basal membrane binding or non‐binding of H. pylori to the cells. Similarly, we noted that H. pylori infection could reduce the expression and glycosylation of MUC1.

Conclusions

Helicobacter pylori dwelling on the apical surface of the gastrointestinal epithelium could directly induce serious injury of the mucosal barrier, and the new methods outlined here, based on the Boyden Chamber system, could be very useful for studying the relationships between bacteria and their target cells.
Interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist correlates with hepatic venous pressure gradient and predicts occurrence of overall complications and bacterial infections in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Hsieh Yun‐Cheng , Lee Kuei‐Chuan , Yang Ying‐Ying , Huo Teh‐Ia , Huang Yi‐Hsiang , Lin Han‐Chieh
Published: May 2014

Aim

The plasma levels of interleukin (IL)‐1α, IL‐1β and IL‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) are increased in cirrhotic patients. We aimed to investigate whether these cytokines correlate with hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG), the severity of liver cirrhosis and complications of cirrhosis.

Methods

Sixty‐three cirrhotic patients that underwent hemodynamic studies in Taipei Veterans General hospital were enrolled retrospectively. Plasma levels of IL‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐1Ra and endotoxin were assessed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Plasma obtained from 11 healthy subjects served as normal controls.

Results

Plasma levels of IL‐1α, IL‐1β and IL‐1Ra were increased in cirrhotic patients compared with controls. IL‐1Ra levels significantly correlated with plasma endotoxin levels, Child–Pugh scores, Model of End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores and HVPG. On multivariate analysis, higher IL‐1Ra levels (≥760 pg/mL) predicted the occurrence of portal hypertension‐related complications and the development of bacterial infections independently of the MELD scores and portal pressure. Furthermore, higher IL‐1Ra levels also predicted the survival in patients without hepatocellular carcinoma.

Conclusion

The plasma IL‐1Ra level correlates with HVPG. Additionally, it may predict the occurrence of portal hypertension‐related complications and bacterial infections in cirrhotic patients and the survival in patients without hepatocellular carcinoma.
Variceal hemorrhage: Analysis of 9987 cases from a Japanese nationwide database
Authors: Sato Masaya , Tateishi Ryosuke , Yasunaga Hideo , Horiguchi Hiromasa , Yoshida Haruhiko , Fushimi Kiyohide , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: May 2014

Aim

Gastroesophageal variceal hemorrhage is an important complication of cirrhosis. We investigated the in‐hospital mortality and its risk factors after variceal hemorrhage in a large sample population, using a nationwide Japanese database.

Methods

Data on the patients with variceal hemorrhage were collected for a total of 39 months from a nationwide administrative database covering approximately 1000 hospitals in Japan. The risk factors for fatal outcome after variceal hemorrhage were analyzed with receiver–operator curves (ROC) and univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Comorbidities were assessed with the Charlson Comorbidity Index.

Results

We identified 9987 patients with variceal hemorrhage from a total of 20.3 million inpatients in the database. The median age was 63 years and 68.8% were male. The overall in‐hospital mortality was 16.8% (1676 cases). In univariate analysis, Child–Pugh class was the strongest predictor; the area under the ROC of Child–Pugh score for predicting in‐hospital mortality was 0.802. In multivariate analysis, increased in‐hospital mortality was significantly associated with male sex (vs female: odds ratio [OR] = 1.19, P = 0.01), older age, Child–Pugh class B or C (B vs A: OR = 2.80, P < 0.001; C vs A: OR = 20.1, P < 0.001) and higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (≥6 vs ≤5; OR = 1.29, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In spite of recent advances in the treatment of variceal hemorrhage, the in‐hospital mortality remained as high as 16%. Poor liver function was the most important predictor, suggesting that liver failure after variceal hemorrhage might have been the cause of death.
SOX and the Transition from Apartheid to Democracy: South African Auditing Developments through the Lens of Modernity Theory
Authors: Maroun Warren , Coldwell David , Segal Milton
Published: May 2014

This paper uses South Africa as an example to explore how crises of trust – stemming from the legacy of Apartheid, local and international corporate failures and the changing regulatory framework in the United States – have contributed to shaping aspects of South African corporate governance. Using Giddens' theory of modernity, the research considers how the country's racist past and recent corporate scandals have converged to shape South Africa's corporate governance landscape. In turn, mechanisms of modernity explain why South Africa has developed a highly sophisticated system of corporate governance.
A novel approach to fit testing the N95 respirator in real time in a clinical setting
Authors: Or Peggy , Chung Joanne , Wong Thomas
Published: May 2014

The instant measurements provided by the Portacount fit‐test instrument have been used as the gold standard in predicting the protection of an N95 respirator in a laboratory environment. The conventional Portacount fit‐test method, however, cannot deliver real‐time measurements of face‐seal leakage when the N95 respirator is in use in clinical settings. This research was divided into two stages. Stage 1 involved developing and validating a new quantitative fit‐test method called the Personal Respiratory Sampling Test (PRST). In Stage 2, PRST was evaluated in use during nursing activities in clinical settings. Eighty‐four participants were divided randomly into four groups and were tested while performing bedside nursing procedures. In Stage 1, a new PRST method was successfully devised and validated. Results of Stage 2 showed that the new PRST method could detect different concentrations and different particle sizes inside the respirator while the wearer performed different nursing activities. This new fit‐test method, PRST, can detect face seal leakage of an N95 respirator being worn while the wearer performs clinical activities. Thus, PRST can help ensure that the N95 respirator actually fulfils its function of protecting health‐care workers from airborne pathogens.
Social investment, social service and the economic performance of welfare states
Authors: Ahn Sang‐Hoon , Kim Soo‐Wan
Published: May 2014

This article begins with an examination of the role of social services as the key instrument of social investment strategy, presenting an empirical analysis of its impact on economic performance. A pooled time series, cross‐section analysis was conducted with the data of 15 welfare states from 1990 to 2007 under the ‘social investment hypothesis’ that more social service orientedness brings about a greater positive effect on the economy. The results show that a larger share of social service spending in the total social expenditure – more social service orientedness – contributes to economic growth and labour market performance, whereas a larger aggregate size of the welfare state may have a negative effect on employment. In conclusion, this study suggests that the relatively ambiguous welfare strategy of social investment could be clarified as a ‘transition from income security to livelihood security’ in which emphasis is placed on social service.

Key Practitioner Message: ● This study suggests that the key instrument of social investment strategy is social service; ● The results show that more social service orientedness contributes to economic growth and labour market performance.
Criterion‐Related Validity of Challenging Behaviour Scales: A Review of Evidence in the Literature
Authors: Turton Raistrick W.
Published: May 2014

Background

Behaviour that challenges has negative impacts on physical and emotional well‐being and quality of life. Challenging behaviour scales are used to identify needs and evaluate interventions and must be valid measures. Criterion‐related validity is important, and the best quality assessment uses direct measures of behaviour as criteria. Previous reviews of scales affirm their validity but present little supporting evidence. The current review examines the evidence presented in studies of validity.

Methods

Searches of MEDLINE and PsycINFO to identify scales that focus on challenging behaviour and find publications that assess their criterion‐related validity.

Results

Searches identified twelve scales and 21 publications that assess validity. One assessment used direct measures of behaviour, and the remainder used indirect measures that themselves have limited evidence of validity, including membership of diagnostic or service groups and other scales.

Conclusions

Little firm evidence of validity was found, but what was found is encouraging.
Social withdrawal in children moderates the association between parenting styles and the children's own socioemotional development
Authors: Zarra‐Nezhad Maryam , Kiuru Noona , Aunola Kaisa , Zarra‐Nezhad Mansour , Ahonen Timo , Poikkeus Anna‐Maija , Lerkkanen Marja‐Kristiina , Nurmi Jari‐Erik
Published: May 2014

Background

Social withdrawal in early childhood is a risk factor for later socioemotional difficulties. This study examined the joint effects of children's social withdrawal and mothers' and fathers' parenting styles on children's socioemotional development. Based on diatheses‐stress, vantage sensitivity, and differential susceptibility models, socially withdrawn children were assumed to be more prone to parental influences than others.

Methods

Teachers rated 314 children on prosocial skills, and internalizing and externalizing behaviors at three points in time between grades 1–3. Mothers (n = 279) and fathers (n = 182) filled in questionnaires measuring their affection, and their behavioral and psychological control at the same points in time. Teacher reports on children's level of social withdrawal were obtained at the end of kindergarten.

Results

Panel analysis showed that particularly those children who showed signs of social withdrawal were vulnerable to the negative effects of low maternal affection in terms of externalizing behavior. Moreover, among these children, mothers' and fathers' psychological control predicted high levels of internalizing problem but, at the same time, mothers' psychological control predicted also a high level of prosocial behavior and low levels of externalizing problem.

Conclusions

The results supported the diathesis–stress model more than the differential susceptibility model. For example, socially withdrawn children were found to be particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of low maternal affection. Although maternal psychological control had positive effects on the prosocial skills of socially withdrawn children, and reduced the amount of externalizing problems, it was at the same time associated with an increase in their internalizing problems. In this way, socially withdrawn children seem to be at risk of pleasing their mothers at the cost of their own well‐being.
Predictors of the onset of depression in young children: a multi‐method, multi‐informant longitudinal study from ages 3 to 6
Authors: Bufferd Sara J. , Dougherty Lea R. , Olino Thomas M. , Dyson Margaret W. , Laptook Rebecca S. , Carlson Gabrielle A. , Klein Daniel N.
Published: May 2014

Background

Despite growing interest in depression in young children, little is known about which variables predict the onset of depression in early childhood. We examined a range of predictors of the onset of depression diagnoses in a multi‐method, multi‐informant longitudinal study of a large community sample of young children from ages 3 to 6.

Methods

Predictors of the onset of depression at age 6 were drawn from five domains assessed when children were 3 years old: child psychopathology (assessed using a parent diagnostic interview), observed child temperament, teacher ratings of peer functioning, parental psychopathology (assessed using a diagnostic interview), and psychosocial environment (observed parental hostility, parent‐reported family stressors, parental education).

Results

A number of variables predicted the onset of depression by age 6, including child history of anxiety disorders, child temperamental low inhibitory control, poor peer functioning, parental history of mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, early and recent stressful life events, and less parental education.

Conclusions

Predictors of the onset of depression in early childhood tend to be similar to those identified in older youth and adults, and support the feasibility of identifying children in greatest need for early intervention.
Commentary: Becoming social – a commentary on Happé & Frith (2014)
Authors: Nelson Charles A.
Published: May 2014

The field of developmental cognitive neuroscience is now established as a discipline at the nexus of the broader fields of developmental psychology and cognitive neuroscience. Sitting in its rear view mirror, but gaining rapidly, is the nascent discipline of developmental social neuroscience. Given the relative youth of this field, it is not surprising that a great deal of energy has gone into generating a rich corpus of empirical data.
Evaluation of health research capacity strengthening trainings on individual level: validation of a questionnaire
Authors: Huber Johanna , Bauer Daniel , Hoelscher Michael , Kapungu Jerry , Kroidl Arne , Lennemann Tessa , Maganga Lucas , Opitz Oliver , Salehe Omari , Sigauke Abbie , Fischer Martin R. , Kiessling Claudia
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

In the field of global health, research capacity strengthening is becoming a common concept for defining and improving research competencies on individual, organizational, national and supranational level. However, HRCS activities often lack evaluation procedures to measure their impact and to ensure their quality. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a short questionnaire to evaluate trainings in the field of health research capacity strengthening (HRCS).

Method

The questionnaire was developed by an interdisciplinary research team and tested in four different training settings at the Mbeya Medical Research Center and Mbeya Referral Hospital, Tanzania. Construct validity of the questionnaire was tested based on 97 responses of the participants of four trainings.

Results

Iterative checking of Cronbach's alpha of the subscales and exploratory factor analysis revealed a four‐factor solution that differed from the original structure and subscales of the questionnaire. The instrument was adapted accordingly and consists now of four subscales with 19 items, three global impression items, and open questions for participants’ comments and recommendations.

Conclusions

The result of the study is a short, validated questionnaire for the evaluation of HRCS trainings on the individual level. The tool can be applied both to measure the short‐term effects of international health research capacity trainings and to ensure their quality. In the future, after collecting larger sample sizes, a confirmatory factor analysis should be done to further support the four factors.
Pain treatment facilities: do we need quantity or quality?
Authors: de Meij Nelleke , Köke Albère , van der Weijden Trudy , van Kleef Maarten , Patijn Jacob
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Chronic pain patients referred to a pain treatment facility have no guarantee that they will receive a proper diagnostic procedure or treatment. To obtain information about organizational aspects of pain treatment facilities and the content of their daily pain practice, we performed a questionnaire survey. The aim of the study was to evaluate the amount of pain treatment facilities, the content of organized specialized pain care and adherence to the criteria of the internationally accepted guidelines for pain treatment services.

Method

The University Pain Centre Maastricht in the Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Management at Maastricht University Medical Centre developed a questionnaire survey based on the Recommendations for Pain Treatment Services of the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP). The questionnaire was sent to the medical boards of all hospitals in the Netherlands (n = 94).

Results

The response rate was 86% (n = 81). Of all hospitals, 88.9% (n = 72) reported the provision of organized specialized pain care, which was provided by a pain management team in 86.1% (n = 62) and by an individual specialist in 13.9% (n = 10). Insight was obtained from pain treatment facilities in five different domains: the organizational structure of pain management, composition of the pain team, pain team practice, patient characteristics, and research and education facilities.

Conclusion

Although 88.9% of all hospitals stated that organized specialized pain care was provided, only a few hospitals could adhere to the criteria for pain treatment services of the IASP. The outcome of the questionnaire survey may help to define quality improvement standards for pain treatment facilities.
An update and further testing of a knowledge‐based diagnostic clinical decision support system for musculoskeletal disorders of the shoulder for use in a primary care setting
Authors: Farmer Nicholas
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

A prototype diagnostic clinical decision support system (CDSS) was developed to assist primary care clinicians (general practitioners) in clinical decision making, aimed at reducing diagnostic errors. The prototype CDSS showed some promise with high levels of validity and reliability; however, issues regarding the underlying Bayesian belief network (BBN), small sample size and use of radiological imaging as a gold standard measure were highlighted that required further investigation before considering clinical testing.

Methods

The prototype CDSS was reviewed and updated based on computer science literature and expert (orthopaedic consultant) opinion. The updated CDSS was tested by comparing its diagnostic outcome against the diagnosis of 93 case studies as determined by expert opinion combined with arthroscopy findings or radiological imaging.

Results

The updated CDSS showed significant high levels of sensitivity (91%), specificity (98%), positive likelihood ratio (53.12) and negative likelihood ratio (0.08) with a kappa value of 0.88 to a confidence level of 99% compared with expert diagnosis combined with arthroscopy findings or radiological imaging.

Conclusions

The results suggest that the updated CDSS has addressed the issues highlighted from the initial research while maintaining high levels of validity and reliability. The updated CDSS is now ready for clinical testing.
Quality improvement of metabolic control for patients with type 2 diabetes treated at a general hospital: a quantitative open cohort study
Authors: von Eyben Finn Edler
Published: May 2014

Rationale, aims and objectives

Most patients with type 2 diabetes have metabolic risk factors above recommend goals. The present intervention aimed to escalate medical treatment to improve metabolic control. The study was carried out at a Norwegian general hospital as a quantitative open cohort study.

Methods

The audit evaluated 191 patients treated from 2007 to 2012. To improve metabolic control, a medical intervention used stepped care and goals for the metabolic risk factors. A database was used to overview the intervention. Multiple regression analyses assessed whether baseline characteristics and components of the intervention were associated with change of metabolic risk factors.

Results

The intervention increased number of antihypertensive drugs and dose of metformin and insulin. The intensification lowered mean systolic blood pressure from 142 to 132 mmHg, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol from 2.6 to 2.1 mmol L–1 and glycated haemoglobin, HbA1c, from 8.5 to 7.6% (64–57 mmol mol–1, P < 0.001, t‐tests). At end of the study, 25 (13%) patients fulfilled targets for the three metabolic risk factors. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that changes of the three metabolic risk factors were significantly associated with levels at start of the study and number of visits or length of follow‐up.

Conclusions

Stepped care was an effective treatment for type 2 diabetes at a general hospital. The database supported the intervention. It improved metabolic control over 4 years.
The feasibility of e‐learning as a quality improvement tool
Authors: Kobewka Daniel , Backman Chantal , Hendry Paul , Hamstra Stanley J. , Suh Kathryn N. , Code Catherine , Forster Alan J.
Published: May 2014

Rational, aims and objectives

 Many quality problems exist in health care. We aim to investigate the feasibility and acceptability of using e‐learning (defined as computer‐based learning modules) to address gaps in quality of care.

Methods

We performed a qualitative evaluation of participants in a pilot e‐learning program. Physician members of six medical teaching units (MTUs) at a multi‐site tertiary care teaching hospital were asked to complete two e‐learning modules addressing hand hygiene practices and management of community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP). An e‐learning design team created online modules that were made available to members of the six MTUs for 4 weeks using a password secured website. Use of the modules was voluntary. Participants' perceptions of module content, mode of delivery, and suggestions for improvement were determined through focus groups. We then performed content analysis on the transcripts. We used system data to define patterns of module access.

Results

Out of 55 eligible users, 30 (55%) logged onto the system at least once. Residents (14/30, 47%) were less likely to use the system than medical students (9/14, 64%) and attending staff (7/11, 64%). Learners at all levels thought the modules were easy to use. Participants liked the knowledge‐based material in the CAP module because it directly applied to their work. There were less favourable opinions of the hand hygiene module

Conclusions

Generating e‐learning modules targeted at gaps in quality of care is feasible and acceptable to learners. Future studies should assess whether these approaches lead to desired changes in behavior.
Effects of Some Plant Extracts on the Oxidative Stability of Canola Oil and Its Purified Triacylglycerols
Authors: Turan Semra
Published: May 2014

In this study, the effects of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), sage (Salvia officinalis L.) and bay (Laurus nobilis) extracts on the oxidative stability of canola oil and its purified triacylglycerols (TAGs) were studied. The effects of extraction solvents (methanol, ethanol and acetone) on the extraction yields, phenolic contents and antioxidant activities of these plant extracts were also determined. Methanol extracts had the highest total phenolics (78.4–177.4 mg gallic acid equivalent/g extracts), with the exception of thyme extract. In linoleic acid emulsion, antioxidant activities of all plant extracts were above 89.7% at the studied concentrations. The highest 2,2′‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activities were found for methanol extracts. There was no significant difference between induction periods of canola oils supplemented with ethanol, methanol or acetone extracts of rosemary, thyme and bay (P > 0.05) in differential scanning calorimeter. Protection factors of rosemary and thyme extracts were higher than those of the sage and bay extracts in canola oil and its purified TAGs in Rancimat test.

Practical Applications

Rosemary, sage, thyme and bay extracts had high antioxidant and antiradical activities. They contain many bioactive components such as, carnosic acid, carnosol, methyl carnosate, rosmarinic acid, rosmanol, thymol, carvacrol and hydroxycinnamic acid. In addition to this, when the rosemary and thyme extracts were added into canola oil, they increased induction period of oil. These herbal extracts can be incorporated into oils or lipid‐containing foods to prevent oxidation.
Cell‐death assessment by fluorescent and nonfluorescent cytosolic and nuclear staining techniques
Authors: ATALE N. , GUPTA S. , YADAV U.C.S. , RANI V.
Published: May 2014

Apoptosis, a genetically programmed cellular event leads to biochemical and morphological changes in cells. Alterations in DNA caused by several factors affect nucleus and ultimately the entire cell leading to compromised function of the organ and organism. DNA, a master regulator of the cellular events, is an important biomolecule with regards to cell growth, cell death, cell migration and cell differentiation. It is therefore imperative to develop the staining techniques that may lead to visualize the changes in nucleus where DNA is housed, to comprehend the cellular pathophysiology. Over the years a number of nuclear staining techniques such as propidium iodide, Hoechst‐33342, 4’, 6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole (DAPI), Acridine orange–Ethidium bromide staining, among others have been developed to assess the changes in DNA. Some nonnuclear staining techniques such as Annexin‐V staining, which although does not stain DNA, but helps to identify the events that result from DNA alteration and leads to initiation of apoptotic cell death. In this review, we have briefly discussed some of the most commonly used fluorescent and nonfluorescent staining techniques that identify apoptotic changes in cell, DNA and the nucleus. These techniques help in differentiating several cellular and nuclear phenotypes that result from DNA damage and have been identified as specific to necrosis or early and late apoptosis as well as scores of other nuclear deformities occurring inside the cells.
Variable multimodal light microscopy with interference contrast and phase contrast; dark or bright field
Authors: PIPER T. , PIPER J.
Published: May 2014

Using the optical methods described, specimens can be observed with modified multimodal light microscopes based on interference contrast combined with phase contrast, dark‐ or bright‐field illumination. Thus, the particular visual information associated with interference and phase contrast, dark‐ and bright‐field illumination is joined in real‐time composite images appearing in enhanced clarity and purified from typical artefacts, which are apparent in standard phase contrast and dark‐field illumination. In particular, haloing and shade‐off are absent or significantly reduced as well as marginal blooming and scattering. The background brightness and thus the range of contrast can be continuously modulated and variable transitions can be achieved between interference contrast and complementary illumination techniques. The methods reported should be of general interest for all disciplines using phase and interference contrast microscopy, especially in biology and medicine, and also in material sciences when implemented in vertical illuminators.