bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Helicobacter pylori Eradication on Circulating Adiponectin in Humans
Authors: Ando Takashi , Ishikawa Takeshi , Takagi Tomohisa , Imamoto Eiko , Kishimoto Etsuko , Okajima Akira , Uchiyama Kazuhiko , Handa Osamu , Yagi Nobuaki , Kokura Satoshi , Naito Yuji , Mizuno Shigeto , Asakawa Akihiro , Inui Akio , Yoshikawa Toshikazu
Published: November 2012

Background

The relationship between Helicobacter pylori infection and metabolic syndrome is not well understood. Adiponectin is an adipose‐derived protein considered to play a significant role in the development of metabolic syndrome. The aim of this study was to clarify the influence of H. pylori infection on circulating adiponectin in humans.

Methods

In a prospective study, 456 patients underwent endoscopy and H. pylori testing. All of the 338 H. pylori ‐positive patients received eradication therapy. Treatment was successful in 241 patients. Circulating adiponectin and other metabolic parameters were measured at baseline in all patients and 12 weeks after eradication therapy in those initially positive for H. pylori.

Results

Circulating adiponectin levels were not different between H. pylori ‐positive and H. pylori ‐negative patients. In the group with successful eradication, levels of total adiponectin and each multimer form were significantly increased after therapy. Conversely, the levels of total adiponectin and high‐molecular‐weight adiponectin, but not middle‐molecular‐weight and low‐molecular‐weight adiponectin, were increased in the group with unsuccessful eradication after the therapy.

Conclusions

Eradication therapy of H. pylori increased circulating adiponectin levels in Japanese individuals and could be beneficial for preventing metabolic syndrome conditions.
Works of Love in a World of Violence: Kierkegaard, Feminism, and the Limits of Self‐Sacrifice
Authors: Green Deidre Nicole
Published: November 2012

Feminist scholars adopt wide‐ranging views of self‐sacrifice: their critiques claim that women are inordinately affected by Christianity's valorization of self‐sacrifice and that this traditional Christian value is inherently misogynistic and necrophilic. Although Søren Kierkegaard's Works of Love deems Christian love essentially sacrificial, love, in his view, sets significant limits on the role of self‐sacrifice in human life. Through his proposed response to one who requests forgiveness, “Do you now truly love me?” Kierkegaard offers a model of forgiveness that subverts traditional ideals of the self‐sacrificing and submissive woman while keeping love central. The question asserts self‐love, involves redoubling and double danger, and expresses a refusal to imitate Christ's suffering. I propose a reading in keeping with Grace Jantzen's vision for a feminist philosophy of religion, which reads against the grain and “seeks to break through to new ways of thinking that may open up divine horizons.” My reading is further supported by Kierkegaard's contention that everything essentially Christian bears a double meaning. In light of the subversive potential found in the discrepancy between apparent love and actual love, as well as the duty to name the sin of one who has behaved in an unloving manner, I argue that Kierkegaard's philosophy of love resists simplistic understandings of self‐sacrificing love.
The Role of Job Seekers' Individual Characteristics on Job Seeking Behavior and Psychological Well‐being
Authors: Georgiou Konstantina , Nikolaou Ioannis , Tomprou Maria , Rafailidou Myrto
Published: November 2012

The job search process is considered a complex and intensive procedure requiring investment in time and effort on behalf of job seekers. Our study attempts to explore further the effects of a number of individual characteristics on job search behavior, effort, job search outcomes, as well as, on psychological well‐being. We examined these relationships using a daily diary methodology with the participation of 79 recent university graduates–job seekers in Greece at the beginning of the recent financial crisis. Our results did not support the importance of these individual characteristics on job search behavior, effort, and job search outcomes, but it supported their role of daily psychological well‐being, especially their self‐esteem. We discuss implications for job seekers to cultivate these skills that are related to these individual characteristics helpful in maintaining a positive psychological state during the job search period.
Fairness Perceptions of Video Resumes among Ethnically Diverse Applicants
Authors: Hiemstra Annemarie M. F. , Derous Eva , Serlie Alec W. , Born Marise Ph.
Published: November 2012

This study investigated ethnic majority and minority applicants' fairness perceptions (N = 445) of video resumes, compared with paper resumes. Additionally, the moderating effect of minorities' ethnic identity and language proficiency on fairness perceptions of video/paper resumes was studied. Despite discriminatory concerns, ethnic minority applicants perceived the fairness of video resumes equally or more positively when compared with ethnic majority applicants, and when compared with paper resumes. Minorities' ethnic identity was positively related to fairness perceptions of resumes. Furthermore, language proficiency was a significant moderator: Higher proficiency was related to higher fairness perceptions of paper resumes. The implication is suggested that ethnic minority applicants may prefer a more personalized way of applying (video resume), instead of less personalized ways.
Designing Selection Systems for Medicine: The importance of balancing predictive and political validity in high‐stakes selection contexts
Authors: Patterson Fiona , Lievens Filip , Kerrin Máire , Zibarras Lara , Carette Bernd
Published: November 2012

Selection into medical education and training is a high‐stakes process. A key unanswered issue is the effectiveness of measuring noncognitive predictors via both low‐fidelity and high‐fidelity selection approaches in this high‐stakes context. We review studies investigating the effectiveness of multiple selection instruments in terms of predictive validity, incremental validity, and applicant reactions in both entry‐level and advanced‐level medical selection. Our results show that the situational judgment test (SJT) is the best single predictor of performance, operationalized in multiple ways. In addition, the low‐fidelity SJT has incremental predictive power over cognitively oriented tests, and high‐fidelity assessment center (AC) exercises add incremental validity over the low‐fidelity (and less costly) selection methods. Concerning applicant reactions, results show that overall, the selection system is positively received. However, the method with the highest predictive validity – the SJT – received comparatively lower face validity ratings which may present a ‘justice dilemma’ for employers. Furthermore, various other stakeholders have a political interest in the selection methods used (e.g., government, the regulators and trade unions).
Human rights, cultural practices, and state policies: Implications for global social work practice and policy
Authors: Katiuzhinsky Anna , Okech David
Published: November 2012

Effective practice in a global world requires knowledge and understanding of diverse cultures. Most social workers around the world are committed to values and policies that enhance the well‐being of especially vulnerable populations and that protect their human rights. However, not all cultural practices or policies place the same value on human rights and the protection of vulnerable populations, a situation that may result in conflicts for social workers, who have an ethical obligation to advocate for human rights as well as to be sensitive to their clients' cultural contexts. Based on multidisciplinary research and contemporary examples of gender discrimination, forced marriages, child labor, and female genital mutilation, this article proposes resolutions to this conflict. It concludes by suggesting practices and policies that might help social workers to strike an effective balance between cultural diversity and the promotion of human rights.

Key Practitioner Message: ● Social workers are best placed to understand individuals and communities within their various cultural contexts; ● Social work practice and policy should be sensitive to cultural practices that may undermine human rights and the well‐being of vulnerable populations; ● Guided by professional values and ethics, social workers can assume the roles of educator and advocate in enhancing the rights of individuals.
Lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with Niigata Minamata disease: A case–control study 50 years after methyl mercury pollution
Authors: Hara Noboru , Saito Hisashi , Takahashi Kota , Takeda Masayuki
Published: November 2012

Objectives

To clarify the prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms and overactive bladder in patients with chronic methyl mercury poisoning.

Methods

A total of 151 patients (61 men and 90 women; mean age 72.1 years) with Niigata Minamata disease were enrolled. An age‐ and sex‐matched group of 150 participants was used as control. Patients reported their International Prostate Symptom Score and overactive bladder symptom score.

Results

In men, the total, storage and voiding International Prostate Symptom Score scores were higher in the Niigata Minamata disease group than in the control group (10.6 ± 7.8 vs 5.0 ± 5.0, 4.5 ± 3.3 vs 2.4 ± 2.4 and 6.1 ± 5.1 vs 2.7 ± 3.1, respectively, P < 0.001 in all). In women, these scores were also higher in the Niigata Minamata disease group than in the control group (8.9 ± 7.3 vs 4.0 ± 4.0, 4.4 ± 3.2 vs 2.8 ± 2.4 and 4.5 ± 5.0 vs 1.3 ± 2.0, respectively, P < 0.001 in all). The prevalence of overactive bladder was more frequent in the Niigata Minamata disease group compared with that in the control group (51.7% vs 26.7%, P < 0.001). In both men and women, the overactive bladder symptom score was higher in the Niigata Minamata disease group than in the control group (4.1 ± 3.0 vs 2.4 ± 2.9, P = 0.002 and 4.6 ± 3.6 vs 2.7 ± 2.9, P < 0.001, respectively). The International Prostate Symptom Score and overactive bladder symptom score in the Niigata Minamata disease group were highest in patients aged 60–69 years (P < 0.001 in both), whereas these increased in an age‐dependent manner in the control group.

Conclusions

Lower urinary tract symptoms and overactive bladder are severe and highly prevalent conditions among patients with methyl mercury poisoning. The higher prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms among patients aged 60–69 years might be related to the fact that they were exposed to methyl mercury during their childhood/development.
Social relationships and subsequent health‐related behaviours: linkages between adolescent peer status and levels of adult smoking in a Stockholm cohort
Authors: Almquist Ylva B. , Östberg Viveca
Published: November 2012

Aims

Peer status reflects the extent to which an individual is accepted by the group. Some studies have reported that low peer status in adolescence is associated with a higher risk of smoking, while others found the reverse. No studies have investigated peer status influences on adult smoking. The aim of the study was therefore to examine the relationship between adolescents' peer status and the intensity of smoking in adulthood.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Stockholm, Sweden.

Participants

A subsample (n = 2329) of the cohort with information about adult smoking.

Measurements

Peer status was assessed sociometrically at age 13 and information on smoking was gathered through a questionnaire at age 32. Relative risks (RR) for self‐reported level of smoking were calculated using multinomial logistic regression. Several family‐related and individual variables were included as control variables.

Findings

Lower peer status in adolescence was associated with smoking of any intensity in adulthood. For example, the risk of heavy smoking was more than threefold (RR = 3.67) among individuals in the lowest status positions. The association with occasional smoking was abolished by controlling for factors related to adolescents' attitude to school and cognitive ability. For regular and heavy smoking the relationship was attenuated by controlling for these factors.

Conclusions

Low peer status in adolescence appears to be a risk factor for smoking in adulthood. Part of this association may be explained by adolescents' feelings towards school and cognitive ability. However, being unpopular in adolescence remains a strong risk factor for regular and heavy smoking in adulthood.
Mosquitoes and other aquatic insects in fallow field biotopes and rice paddy fields
Authors: OHBA S. Y. , MATSUO T. , TAKAGI M.
Published: November 2012

Fallow field biotopes that develop from abandoned rice fields are man‐made wetlands that provide new habitats for various aquatic animals. Although consideration of such biotopes generally focuses on their positive aspects, this study evaluated the negative aspects of establishing fallow field biotopes with regard to mosquito breeding sites. To determine whether fallow field biotopes become breeding habitats for vector mosquitoes, we evaluated mosquito fauna in fallow field biotopes and adjacent rice fields. We found larvae ofAnopheles lesteri,Anopheles sinensisandCulex tritaeniorhynchus(all: Diptera: Culicidae) in the biotopes. Although abundances of mosquito larvae in the biotopes and rice fields were statistically similar, mosquito abundances in rice fields increased dramatically in August when the water level reduced after the rainy season. The abundance and variety of the mosquitoes' natural predators were greater in biotopes than in rice fields because the former are a permanent and stable aquatic environment. A generalized linear mixed model showed a negative effect of predator diversity on mosquito larvae abundance in both habitats. Although fallow field biotopes become breeding habitats for vector mosquitoes, establishing biotopes from fallow fields in order to protect various aquatic animals, including mosquito insect predators, may help to control mosquito breeding.
Effect of thermal acclimation on preferred temperatures in two mygalomorph spiders inhabiting contrasting habitats
Authors: ALFARO CARMEN , FIGUEROA DANIELA P. , TORRES HUGO , VELOSO CLAUDIO , VENEGAS FANNY , CANALS LUCIA , CANALS MAURICIO
Published: November 2012

Variations in the preferred temperatures during the rest periods of Grammostola rosea Walckenaer and Paraphysa parvula Pocock, two mygalomorph spiders occupying different habitats in central Chile, are analyzed. The former inhabits arid and semi‐arid lowland near plant communities, composed of shrubs (evergreens with small leathery leaves) and small trees; the latter is found in the central mountains of the Chilean Andes, above 2000 m.a.s.l. The preferred temperatures of these spiders at different times of day and exposure to cold (15 °C) and warm (25 °C) acclimation temperatures are compared. Body mass does not affect the preferred temperature of the larger spider G. rosea, although P. parvula, a spider with half of the body mass of G. rosea, shows a decrease in preferred temperature with body mass. This can be explained by a higher plasticity and thermal sensitivity of the smaller species as result of increased surface : volume ratio. The preferred temperature increases with the hour of the day under both acclimation conditions in P. parvula and in cold‐acclimated G. rosea, which is likely associated with crepuscular and nocturnal behaviour in both species. Grammostola rosea shows temperature preferences lower than those of P. parvula under both acclimation conditions. The increase of the acclimation temperature from 15 to 25 °C results in an increment of 2–3 °C in the preferred temperature of P. parvula but only 0.2 °C in that of G. rosea. Two contrasting lifestyle strategies are found: a small mygalomorph spider with phenotypic plasticity and adaptation to the fluctuating environment of high altitude, and a large mygalomorph spider with higher thermal inertia adapted to the more stable environment of lowlands.
The Common but Differentiated Responsibilities Principle: Changes in Continuity after the Durban Conference of the Parties
Authors: Deleuil Thomas
Published: November 2012

The common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR) principle has played a major part in the post‐2012 climate change negotiations. However, the rise of emerging economies and the multiplication of State categories have called the initial compromise under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) into question and, until now, no balance between the conflicting claims of States has been found. Meanwhile, the principle is still not fixed in terms of its formulation, legal nature and practice. Although it enabled agreement on the UNFCCC in the 1990s, the principle has also contributed to climate negotiation deadlocks. As a result, it appears to be fading in the 2011 Durban decisions, giving place to general contextual norms. Moreover, the decision on the Durban Platform, through which the post‐2020 negotiations will take place, does not refer to the principle at all. Still, it is clear that differential treatment will have a structuring role in the post‐2020 negotiations. This article examines the Durban outcomes in the light of the CBDR principle, with a view to analyzing the prospects of differential treatment in international climate change law.
Assessing uncertainty due to elevation error in a landslide susceptibility model
Authors: MURILLO MICHELLE L , HUNTER GARY J
Published: November 2012

A landslide susceptibility model, employing a digital elevation model (DEM) and geological data, was used in a GIS to predict slope stability in a region of the H J Andrews Long‐Term Research Forest, located in the Western Cascade Range in Oregon, USA. To evaluate the contribution of error in elevation to the uncertainty of the final output of the model, several different, but equally probable, versions of the input DEM were created through the addition of random, spatially autocorrelated noise (error) files. The realized DEMs were then processed to produce a family of slope stability maps from which the uncertainty effects of elevation error upon landslide susceptibility could be assessed. The ability to assess this uncertainty has the potential to help us better understand the inherent strengths and weaknesses of applying digital data and spatial information systems to this application, and to facilitate improved natural resource management decisions in relation to timber harvesting and slope stability problems.
TRANSHUMANISM AS A SECULARIST FAITH
Authors: Tirosh‐Samuelson Hava
Published: November 2012

Abstract In the second half of the twentieth century, humanism— namely, the worldview that underpinned Western thought for several centuries—has been severely critiqued by philosophers who highlighted its theoretical and ethical limitations. Inspired by the emergence of cybernetics and new technologies such as robotics, prosthetics, communications, artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and nanotechnology, there has been a desire to articulate a new worldview that will fit the posthuman condition. Posthumanism is a description of a new form of human existence in which the boundaries between humans and nature and humans and machines are blurred, as well as a prescription for an ideal situation in which the limitations of human biology are transcended, replaced by machines. The transition from the human condition to the posthuman condition will be facilitated by transhumanism, the project of human enhancement that will ultimately yield the transformation of the human species from the human to the posthuman. As an intellectual movement, transhumanism is still very small, but transhumanist ideas exert deep and broad influence on contemporary culture and society. This essay highlights the religious dimension of transhumanism and argues that it should be seen as a secularist faith: transhumanism secularizes traditional religious themes, concerns, and goals, while endowing technology with religious significance. Science‐Religion Studies is the most appropriate context to explore the cultural significance of transhumanism.
THE POLITICS OF TRANSHUMANISM AND THE TECHNO‐MILLENNIAL IMAGINATION, 1626–2030
Authors: Hughes James J.
Published: November 2012

Abstract Transhumanism is a modern expression of ancient and transcultural aspirations to radically transform human existence, socially and bodily. Before the Enlightenment these aspirations were only expressed in religious millennialism, magical medicine, and spiritual practices. The Enlightenment channeled these desires into projects to use science and technology to improve health, longevity, and human abilities, and to use reason to revolutionize society. Since the Enlightenment, techno‐utopian movements have dynamically interacted with supernaturalist millennialism, sometimes syncretically, and often in violent opposition. Today the transhumanist movement, a modern form of Enlightenment techno‐utopianism, has evolved a number of subsects, from the libertarian utopians funded by billionaire Peter Thiel, to religious syncretists like the Mormon Transhumanist Association, to the left‐wing technoprogressives and their bioliberal intellectual allies. In reaction to accelerating technological innovation and transhumanist ideas, apocalyptic Christians, and even secular catastrophists, have begun to incorporate human enhancement into their End Times scenarios. With all sides believing that the fate of humanity hangs in the balance, there is a growing likelihood of violent confrontation.
SCIENTIFIC AND RELIGIOUS PERSPECTIVES ON HUMAN BEHAVIOR: AN INTRODUCTION
Authors: Peters Karl E. , Whittaker‐Johns Barbara
Published: November 2012

Abstract In June 2011, the Institute on Religion in an Age of Science (IRAS) considered the topic “Doing Good, Doing Bad, Doing Nothing: Scientific and Religious Perspectives on Human Behavior.” Plenary speakers discussed evolutionary, biological, and neurological roots of bad and good behavior (Melvin Konner); unconscious prejudice (Mahzarin Banaji); cultural production of evil and how hope arises in suffering (Cheryl Kirk‐Duggan); causes and consequences—neurological and social—of developmental trauma (Laurie Pearlman); social conditions for genocide and mass violence and responses that enable healing and prevent further violence (Ervin Staub); practices for conflict transformation, reconciliation, and peace building (Robert and Alice Evans); and from Eastern religions diagnoses of and prescriptions for overcoming central obstacles to fullness of life (Barbara Jamestone). The papers published here by William Shoemaker, Ervin Staub, and Karl Peters carry forward these evolutionary, neurological, social, and religious analyses and offer ways to become more active in diminishing harmful and nonresponsive behaviors and in enhancing human good.
IS THERE A DISTINCTIVE HUMAN NATURE? APPROACHING THE QUESTION FROM A CHRISTIAN EPISTEMIC BASE
Authors: Torrance Alan J.
Published: November 2012

Abstract Interpretations of human nature driven by scientific analyses of the origin and development of the human species often assume metaphysical naturalism. This generates restrictive and distortive accounts of key facets of human life and ethics. It fails to make sense of human altruism, and it operates within a wider philosophical framework that lacks explanatory power. The accounts of theistic evolution that seek to redress this, however, too easily fail to take sufficient account of the unique contribution of interpretations from a specifically Christian epistemic base. The latter involve a Christological and, hence, eschatological approach which is intrinsic to the interpretation of human nature in light of the purpose and intentionality of the Creator. Phenomenological approaches to the nature of humanity lack the categories to distinguish between human nature as the object of divine intentionality and its present dysfunctional and, ultimately, subhuman state.
Bigotry and Religious Belief
Authors: Ramsey William M.
Published: November 2012

Attacks on religious doctrines are often characterized as a form of bigotry and traditional analyses of the concept support this view. I argue that regarding such attacks as bigotry is inconsistent with a variety of contemporary moral attitudes and social goals. I offer an improved account of when we should ascribe bigotry – one that is more coherent with views on tolerance and the importance of open debate. This account focuses upon the justification for hostile attitudes and also limits the target of bigoted thought to persons, not to doctrines, religious or otherwise. I argue that while it is indeed possible to adopt bigoted attitudes toward people classified on the basis of their religious beliefs, it is not possible to hold bigoted attitudes against the beliefs themselves.
Quantifying rural livelihood strategies in developing countries using an activity choice approach
Authors: Nielsen Øystein Juul , Rayamajhi Santosh , Uberhuaga Patricia , Meilby Henrik , Smith‐Hall Carsten
Published: November 2012

This article uses a quantitative activity choice approach, based on identification of activity variables and application of latent class cluster analysis, to identify five major rural livelihood strategies pursued by households (n= 576) in Bolivia, Nepal, and Mozambique. Income sources and welfare outcomes are compared across strategies and household differences in asset holdings are analyzed using multinomial logit regression. Findings reveal that income diversification is the norm, that a higher degree of specialization does not characterize more remunerative livelihood strategies, that nonfarm income significantly contributes to higher income earnings, that environmental reliance does not vary across strategies, and that small‐scale farmers are the largest and poorest livelihood group. Some livelihood strategies are superior to all other strategies in terms of income earned; access to more remunerative livelihood strategies is determined by land ownership, education, and ethnic affiliation. Finally, the article also highlights that additional work is required to determine the most suitable methods for livelihood strategy identification.
Non‐native conditions favor non‐native populations of invasive plant: demographic consequences of seed size variation?
Authors: Hierro José L. , Eren Özkan , Villarreal Diego , Chiuffo Mariana C.
Published: November 2012

Trait differences between native and non‐native populations may explain the greater abundance and impact of some organisms in their non‐native ranges than in their native ranges. Here, we conducted reciprocal common gardens in southwestern Turkey (home) and central Argentina (away) to explore the hypothesis that the greater success of the invasive ruderal Centaurea solstitialis in Argentina than Turkey is partially explained by differences between home and away populations. Unusual among common gardens, our experimental design included seed additions to explicitly evaluate population level responses, as well as disturbance and no‐disturbance treatments. We documented seed mass in native and non‐native populations, and during the experiment, we periodically measured density, plant size, and herbivory. After six months, we determined the establishment of plants for populations from both origins in both home and away common gardens. Seed mass was two times larger for Argentinean than Turkish populations. Density, plant size and final establishment were also greater for plants from Argentinean than from Turkish populations, but only in the common garden in Argentina. In Turkey, no differences between population origins were detected for these variables. Herbivory was similar for populations from both origins in both common gardens. As expected, disturbance generally increased plant performance in both regions. Our results suggest that increased seed size in non‐native populations may have demographic consequences under non‐native conditions that can contribute to the invasive success of C. solstitialis. This is the first reciprocal common garden that supports the idea that seed size variation contributes to demographic differences for an invasive species between native and non‐native distributions, but our findings further suggest that seed size effects on demography depend on the ecological context in which population processes occur.
The interplay between above‐ and below‐ground plant–plant interactions along an environmental gradient: insights from two‐layer zone‐of‐influence models
Authors: Zhang Wei‐Ping , Jia Xin , Damgaard Christian , Morris E. Charles , Bai Yan‐Yuan , Pan Sha , Wang Gen‐Xuan
Published: November 2012

The changes in plant–plant interactions along environmental gradients have been a focus of recent ecological research. It has been suggested that both above‐ and below‐ground competition and their interplay vary along gradients, but few studies have investigated this idea, and in most cases, the role of facilitation has not been considered, despite its importance in high stress environments. Here we used two‐layer ‘zone‐of‐influence’ models to simulate the effects of facilitation, size‐asymmetry of competition, abiotic stress, resource availability and the balance of root–shoot growth on shoot and root interactions and their interplay along an environmental gradient. In the absence of facilitation, shoot and total competition became weaker, while root competition and the interplay between shoot and root competition were unchanged under increasing stress when root competition was completely symmetric. In contrast, shoot, root, total interactions and the interplay between shoot and root interactions were all negative, and they increased with increasing stress when root competition was size‐symmetric. When facilitation was included in the models, net effects of shoot, root, total interactions and the interplay of root–shoot interactions were very different from those without facilitation, and many were positive under highly stressful conditions. The type of stress (non‐resource or resource) did not significantly influence the simulation results. Our study provides an alternative interpretation of the interplay between above‐ and below‐ground plant–plant interactions across an environmental gradient.
Triaging in dietetics: Do we prioritise the right patients?
Authors: PORTER Judi , JAMIESON Rachel
Published: November 2012

Aim:  Triage, or prioritisation, is a process used to assign patients to treatment categories for clinical management and to support the allocation of staffing resources. The literature is limited regarding dietetic triage processes, and evaluation of their validity and reliability. The aims of this study were to compare the dietetic triage guidelines used in a sample of Australian hospitals; acquire demographic information describing the dietetic department and its services; and obtain feedback from dietetic managers on the benefits/disadvantages of their triage guidelines.

Methods:  A questionnaire was developed to elicit demographic data and qualitative comments from a convenience sample of two hospitals in each Australian state and territory. Data collection occurred electronically and results were analysed qualitatively.

Results:  Ten responses were received (62.5% response rate). The number of inpatient beds at each hospital ranged from 180 to 980. Dietetic staffing ranged from 3.3 to 27.25 equivalent full‐time positions. All participating hospitals had triage guidelines in use with prioritisation categories similar for inpatients but not outpatients. Validity and inter‐rater reliability were poorly evaluated. Strengths and weaknesses identified by dietetic managers were consistent with those reported in other disciplines.

Conclusions:  Both consensus and lack of consistency within current dietetic triage practices were highlighted in this exploratory study. The lack of evaluation of validity and reliability shows a limited evidence base in this area of practice and these areas need to be addressed. Consideration should also be given to changes in priority and focus of dietetic practice which will impact on triage categories.
Parental perceptions of the oral health‐related quality of life of autistic children in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Pani Sharat Chandra , Mubaraki Sarah Ali , Ahmed Yasmine Tarek , AlTurki Rana Yousef , Almahfouz Sarah Fahad
Published: November 2012

The aim of this study was to use parental perception to assess the Oral Health Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) of children with Autism. A total of 59 families of children with Autism who had an unaffected sibling were cross‐matched for age and gender of the affected child with families with no autistic children. The parents were administered the Parental Perception Questionnaire (P‐CPQ) and the Family impact scale (FIS) components of and Arabic version of the Child Oral Health Related Quality of Life questionnaire (COHRQL). The P‐CPQ scores of Children with Autism were compared with those of their unaffected siblings and those of children from families with no autistic child, while the FIS scores were compared between families with and without an autistic child. Regression models were constructed to show the association of sociodemographic factors on the OHRQoL of autistic children. The results of this study seem to suggest that childhood autism results in a reduced OHRQoL for both the affected child as well as the family. The apparent reduced parental concern with unaffected siblings of autistic children, when compared to parental concern towards children in families with no autistic child is an area that could merit further research.
Tuning the Structural, Electronic, and Magnetic Properties of Strontium Titanate Through Atomic Design: A Comparison Between Oxygen Vacancies and Nitrogen Doping
Authors: Liao Xia‐Xia , Wang Hui‐Qiong , Zheng Jin‐Cheng
Published: November 2012

The structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of seven sets of SrTiO2.75 (oxygen vacancies) and SrTiO2.75N0.25 (nitrogen doping) models were investigated by the first principles calculations based on density functional theory. Our results indicated that oxygen vacancies tended to align in a chain sandwiched with Ti atoms, whereas doped nitrogen atoms (substituting oxygen atoms in SrTiO3) preferred other arrangements rather than a chain. In addition, under stable arrangement, SrTiO2.75 showed no magnetism, whereas magnetic moments appeared in other meta‐stable SrTiO2.75 configurations as well as in SrTiO2.75N0.25, which is attributed to the Ti 3d orbitals and nitrogen p orbitals, respectively. Our results suggest a possible route for tuning magnetic and electronic properties of SrTiO3 by atomic design.
A Novel Magneto‐Dielectric Solid Solution Ceramic 0.25LiFe5O8–0.75Li2ZnTi3O8 with Relatively High Permeability and Ultra‐Low Dielectric Loss
Authors: He Li , Zhou Di , Yang Haibo , Guo Jing , Wang Hong
Published: November 2012

In this study, a 0.25LiFe5O8–0.75Li2ZnTi3O8 solid solution ceramic was developed via the solid‐state reaction method. Its phase evolution, microstructure, and sintering behavior were investigated and it was found that the 25 mol.% LiFe5O8 phase is almost fully soluble in Li2ZnTi3O8, and only the Li2ZnTi3O8 type spinel phase was formed in the 0.25LiFe5O8–0.75Li2ZnTi3O8 ceramic. The ceramic sample sintered at 1050°C for 2 h was found to possess both good magnetic properties and dielectric properties in the frequency range from 1 to 10 MHz, with permeability between 38.2 and 15 and magnetic loss tangent between 0.25 and 0.75, permittivity between 19.6 and 19.3 and dielectric loss tangent between 8 × 10−3 and 2 × 10−3. The sample also possesses good microwave dielectric properties with a relative permittivity of 19.1, a high quality factor (Qf) ~11,770 GHz (at 6.84 GHz). The ceramic is a novel magneto‐dielectric ceramic with both high permeability and good dielectric properties, which might be a good candidate for the applications in novel electronic devices.
Laser‐assisted depigmentation for resistant vitiligo: a retrospective case series with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Boukari F. , Lacour J.P. , Ortonne J.P. , Bahadoran P. , Passeron T.
Published: November 2012

Background  Blanching creams are used to depigment and to achieve uniform skin tone in widespread vitiligo. Length of the treatment and side‐effects strongly limit their use in common practice.

Objectives  To assess the long‐term efficacy and tolerance of Q‐Switched (QS) lasers for depigmenting the remaining unaffected skin in vitiligo.

Methods  Retrospective study of vitiligo patients treated with QS lasers in the Department of Dermatology of the University Hospital of Nice, France, from 2002 to 2011. Localizations and the percentage of body surface area of treated lesions, the total number of sessions and the possible relapses and side‐effects, were analysed. Global satisfaction of the patients was evaluated on a visual analogical scale.

Results  Sixteen areas of normally pigmented skin were treated in six patients. The median number of sessions to achieve a complete depigmentation was 2 (1–6). The mean duration of follow‐up was 36 months (19–120). One third of the patients had no relapse. A complete repigmentation was observed after 21 months in one patient; a 50% repigmentation was noted in one patient, 7 months after the end of the treatment. Two patients showed a minimal repigmentation (<25%), 18 months and 9 years after the first laser treatments. The repigmentations were effectively treated with a maintenance session. The mean total number of sessions performed during this period was 3 (1–20). Side‐effects were limited to transient purpura and crusts. The satisfaction of the patients was excellent (mean 9/10).

Conclusions  QS lasers appear as an efficient and safe modality for depigmenting normal skin in vitiligo.
Transmission of lymphocystis disease virus to cultured gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata L., larvae
Authors: Cano I , Valverde E J , Garcia‐Rosado E , Alonso M C , Lopez‐Jimena B , Ortiz‐Delgado J B , Borrego J J , Sarasquete C , Castro D
Published: November 2012

The transmission of lymphocystis disease virus (LCDV) to gilthead seabream, Sparus aurata L., larvae was investigated using fertilized eggs from a farm with previous reports of lymphocystis disease. LCDV genome was detected by PCR‐hybridization in blood samples from 17.5% of the asymptomatic gilthead seabream broodstock analysed. Using the same methodology, eggs spawned from these animals were LCDV positive, as well as larvae hatched from them. The presence of infective viral particles was confirmed by cytopathic effects development on SAF‐1 cells. Whole‐mount in situ hybridization (ISH) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) showed the presence of LCDV in the epidermis of larvae hatched from LCDV‐positive eggs. When fertilized eggs were disinfected with iodine, no viral DNA was detected either in eggs (analysed by PCR‐hybridization) or in larvae (PCR‐hybridization and ISH). These results suggest the vertical transmission of LCDV, the virus being transmitted on the egg surface. Larvae hatched from disinfected eggs remain LCDV negative during the endotrophic phase, as showed by PCR‐hybridization, ISH and IHC. After feeding on LCDV‐positive rotifers, viral antigens were observed in the digestive tract, which suggests that viral entry could be achieved via the alimentary canal, and that rotifers can act as a vector in LCDV transmission to gilthead seabream larvae.
CpG inclusion in feed reduces sea lice, Lepeophtheirus salmonis, numbers following re‐infection
Authors: Purcell S L , Friend S E , Covello J M , Donkin A , Groman D B , Poley J , Fast M D
Published: November 2012

Lepeophtheirus salmonis infections in Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, have been characterized by little to no hyperplastic response and a biphasic immune response that results in chronic inflammation with tissue repair as the infection progresses. We hypothesized that CpG administration with prior lice exposure would enhance epithelial inflammatory mechanisms and boost the Atlantic salmon immune response to L. salmonis, leading to greater protection against infection. We administered multiple exposures of L. salmonis to two groups of Atlantic salmon and compared responses against first‐time exposed Atlantic salmon. Following re‐exposure, CpG fed fish exhibited increased skin expression of interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐12 β compared to control previously exposed (CPE) and control first‐time exposed (CFE) animals, respectively. This inflammatory enhancement occurred with significantly lower expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP 9), both systemically (spleen) and locally (skin). Reduced MMP 9 expression was a hallmark of the re‐infected fish (occurred in both tissues at both times). When significant differences were present in the skin or spleen, the two re‐exposed groups showed greater similarity than with the first exposure group. Lice numbers on CpG fed fish were significantly lower than CFE fish at 7 days post‐re‐infection (dpri), and although they were not significantly different at 17 dpri, the trend of lower lice levels remained. CpG fed fish also showed nearly twofold greater protection than CPE when compared to the CFE group (48.5% vs. 27.0% reductions at 7 dpri and 27.2% vs. 13.1% reductions at 17 dpri, respectively). The enhanced protection of CpG oligodeoxynucleotide administration to previous exposure was consistent across all body surfaces and suggests that CpG can not only enhance innate responses to L. salmonis in Atlantic salmon, but also further stimulate adaptive responses.
Inactivation and Injury of Listeria monocytogenes under Combined Effect of Pressure and Temperature in UHT Whole Milk
Authors: Mishra Niharika , Puri Virendra M. , Demirci Ali
Published: November 2012

Inactivation and injury of Listeria monocytogenes was studied under the combined effect of high pressure and temperature. Three pressure levels (400, 500 and 600 MPa) and three temperature levels (27, 43 and 60C) were chosen. In total, seven combinations were tested: (1) 400 MPa at three temperature levels; and (2) 500 and 600 MPa at 27 and 43C, i.e., the treatment times at 60C were too short (<1 s) to obtain reliable data based on machine precision. Comparison of D‐values on both media showed that (1) the D‐values of treatment condition 400 MPa, 27C and 400 MPa, 43C were significantly different (P < 0.05), and from the rest of the five pressure and temperature combinations, (2) the remaining five combinations were not significantly different from each other (P > 0.05). Injury of L. monocytogenes was evaluated in terms of log reduction value, which was obtained from nonselective and selective media. Treatment temperature played an important role on injury of L. monocytogenes specifically at lower pressure level. At 400 MPa, the injured log reduction values obtained at 27 and 43C were 2.10 and 3.46, respectively, for 15‐min treatment time, whereas at 60C, it was 4.58 for 1 min. This study showed that 6 log10 reductions could be obtained in <2 min using low pressure (400 MPa) and high temperature (60C), which would have industrial relevance in reducing the cost related to high pressure processing of food.

Practical Applications

Listeria monocytogenes is responsible for many foodborne illnesses. Because of its psychrotrophic nature, L. monocytogenes is a potential threat to milk and dairy products as it has the ability to grow under refrigeration temperatures. Inactivation of L. monocytogenes in milk under high pressure has been studied widely. However, few studies have been done to evaluate the injury of the microorganisms, which were limited to low pressure and temperature. Quantification of injured population of L. monocytogenes is important; i.e., after high pressure treatment the sublethally injured cells can recover in the milk medium during the storage period. Hence, there is a great need of quantification of injured population of L. monocytogenes in addition to the inactivation over a wide range of pressure and temperature conditions. The kinetic data on both inactivation and injury of microorganisms will help to establish the safe processing conditions for milk during high pressure and temperature treatment.
Relationships among actions, antecedents, and outcomes of grief care for bereaved caregivers: Surveying visiting nurses throughout Japan
Authors: Ono Wakanako
Published: November 2012

Aim

This research identified and analyzed relationships of grief care by visiting nurses using antecedent factors and grief care outcomes.

Methods

A mailed, original, researcher‐developed, self‐administered questionnaire for visiting nurses employed at home‐visit nursing care stations throughout Japan provided data which was then analyzed using multiple regression analyses. Grief care provided by nurses is divided into three scales: (i) grief care from beginning of home care to the terminal period (GCBT); (ii) grief care at deathbed (GCDB); and (iii) grief care after the patient's death (GCAD).

Results

Valid responses were provided by 332 (90.7%) administrators and 1442 (76.1%) staff nurses. The data revealed that it was “years of experience as a visiting nurse” and “experience of learning grief care after the patient's death” that were significant to GCBT. Also, nurses' outcomes “learning opportunity” and “confidence in visiting nursing” were significant to GCBT and GCAD.

Conclusion

Simply being told how to provide care to the patient during the terminal phase is inadequate. The care during this period seemed to require years of experience as a visiting nurse. Nurses should consider more effective educational methods to nurture this skill rather than wait for it to be acquired through experience. Implementation of grief care is an opportunity for receiving feedback on the care nurses provided. Grief care provides motivation for nursing and maintains mental health.
Limited predictive power of hospitalization variables for long‐term cognitive prognosis in adult patients with severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: de Oliveira Thais Maria Emília Rodrigues , Cavallazzi Gisele , Formolo Douglas Afonso , de Castro Lucas D'Ávila , Schmoeller Roseli , Guarnieri Ricardo , Schwarzbold Marcelo Liborio , Diaz Alexandre Paim , Hohl Alexandre , Prediger Rui D. S. , Mader Maria Joana , Linhares Marcelo Neves , Staniloiu Angelica , Markowitsch Hans J. , Walz Roger
Published: November 2012

Objectives

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a main cause of mortality and morbidity. Association studies between hospitalization variables and cognitive impairment after TBI are frequently retrospective, including non‐consecutive patients showing variable degrees of TBI severity, and poor management of missing (drop out) cases.

Methods

We assessed prospectively the demographic and hospitalization variables of 234 consecutive patients with severe TBI (admission Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS] ≤8) and determined their independent association with cognitive performance in a representative sample (n = 46) of surviving patients (n = 172) evaluated 3 (±1.8) years after hospitalization.

Results

In all, 85% of patients were male and the mean age was 34 (SD ±13) years. The education level was 9 (±4.7) years. As expected, education and age showed a moderately to strong linear relationship with the cognitive performance in 14 of 15 neuropsychological tests (R coefficient = 0.6–0.8). The cognitive test scores were not independently associated with gender, admission GCS, associated trauma, and Marshal CT classification. Admission‐elevated blood glucose levels and the presence of sub‐arachnoid haemorrhage were independently associated with lower scores on Rey Auditory Verbal Learning retention and Logical Memory‐I tests, respectively.

Conclusions

After correction for education and age distribution, the variables that are commonly associated with mortality or Glasgow Outcome Scale including admission pupils' examination, Marshal CT Classification, GCS, and serum glucose showed a limited predictive power for long‐term cognitive prognosis. Identification of clinical, radiological, and laboratory variables as well as new biomarkers independently associated with cognitive outcome remains an important challenge for further work involving severe TBI patients.