bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Implicit Theories of Personality Intervention Reduces Adolescent Aggression in Response to Victimization and Exclusion
Authors: Yeager David Scott , Trzesniewski Kali H. , Dweck Carol S.
Published: October 2012

Adolescents are often resistant to interventions that reduce aggression in children. At the same time, they are developing stronger beliefs in the fixed nature of personal characteristics, particularly aggression. The present intervention addressed these beliefs. A randomized field experiment with a diverse sample of Grades 9 and 10 students (ages 14–16,n = 230) tested the impact of a 6‐session intervention that taught an incremental theory (a belief in the potential for personal change). Compared to no‐treatment and coping skills control groups, the incremental theory group behaved significantly less aggressively and more prosocially 1 month postintervention and exhibited fewer conduct problems 3 months postintervention. The incremental theory and the coping skills interventions also eliminated the association between peer victimization and depressive symptoms.
Cross‐sectional assessment of pain and physical function in skeletal dysplasia patients
Authors: Alade Y , Tunkel D , Schulze K , McGready J , Jallo G , Ain M , Yost T , Hoover‐Fong J
Published: October 2012

Short stature skeletal dysplasia (SD) patients have orthopedic and neurologic complications causing significant pain and physical disability. We conducted a large cross‐sectional online survey in 361 people with short stature SD (>10 years) to describe pain prevalence, characteristics, and the relationship between pain and function. Chronic pain prevalence per Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) was 70.3%. Women reported more pain than men (73% vs 63% p = 0.04). Pain Severity Score (average of current, worst, least and average pain) averaged 3.3 ± 2, while the Pain Interference Score (with daily activities) averaged 3.4 ± 2.7 on a 10‐point scale. Per Bleck scale, 20.5% had little or no functional capacity. Increasing age and decreased ambulation independently predicted chronic pain. Chronic pain is prevalent in short stature SD patients and associated with poor physical function. Further study is required to clarify the temporal relationship among pain, function and treatments.
Assessment of neurogenic dysphagia using bulbar electromyography
Authors: RENAULT FRANCIS
Published: October 2012

This commentary is on the original article by Vijayakumar et al. on pages 1127–1132 of this issue.
Insulin analogues in children with Type 1 diabetes: a 52‐week randomized clinical trial
Authors: Thalange N. , Bereket A. , Larsen J. , Hiort L. C. , Peterkova V.
Published: October 2012

Aims

This 52‐week, randomized, multinational, open‐label, parallel‐group, non‐inferiority trial investigated the efficacy and safety of basal–bolus treatment with insulin detemir vs. NPH (neutral protamine Hagedorn) insulin, in combination with insulin aspart, in subjects aged 2–16 years with Type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

Of the 347 randomized and exposed subjects, 177 received insulin detemir and 170 NPH insulin, both administered once or twice daily in combination with mealtime insulin aspart. Glycaemic measurements and weight were followed over 52 weeks.

Results

After 52 weeks, insulin detemir was shown to be non‐inferior to NPH insulin with regard to HbA1c [mean difference insulin detemir–NPH: 1.30 mmol/mol, 95% CI –1.32 to 3.92 (0.12%, 95% CI –0.12 to 0.36) in the full analysis set and 1.41 mmol/mol, 95% CI –1.26 to 4.08 (0.13%, 95% CI –0.12 to 0.37) in the per protocol analysis set]. Hypoglycaemic events per subject‐year of exposure of 24‐h and nocturnal hypoglycaemia were significantly lower with insulin detemir than with NPH insulin (rate ratio 0.76, 95% CI 0.60–0.97, P = 0.028 and 0.62, 95% CI 0.47–0.84, P = 0.002, respectively). Weight standard deviation (sd) scores (body weight standardized by age and gender) decreased with insulin detemir, but increased slightly with NPH insulin (change: –0.12 vs. 0.04, P < 0.001). At end of the trial, median insulin doses were similar in both treatment groups.

Conclusions

Insulin detemir was non‐inferior to NPH insulin after 52 weeks' treatment of children and adolescents aged 2–16 years, and was associated with a significantly lower risk of hypoglycaemia, together with significantly lower weight sd score when compared with NPH insulin.
Cytoarchitectural, behavioural and neurophysiological dysfunctions in theBCNU‐treated rat model of cortical dysplasia
Authors: Inverardi Francesca , Chikhladze Maia , Donzelli Andrea , Moroni Ramona Frida , Regondi Maria Cristina , Pennacchio Paolo , Zucca Ileana , Corradini Irene , Braida Daniela , Sala Mariaelvina , Franceschetti Silvana , Frassoni Carolina
Published: October 2012

Cortical dysplasias (CDs) include a spectrum of cerebral lesions resulting from cortical development abnormalities during embryogenesis that lead to cognitive disabilities and epilepsy. The experimental model ofCDobtained by means ofin uteroadministration ofBCNU(1‐3‐bis‐chloroethyl‐nitrosurea) to pregnant rats on embryonic day 15 mimics the histopathological abnormalities observed in many patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the behavioural, electrophysiological and anatomical profile ofBCNU‐treated rats in order to determine whether cortical and hippocampal lesions can directly lead to cognitive dysfunction. TheBCNU‐treated rats showed impaired short‐term working memory but intact long‐term aversive memory, whereas their spontaneous motor activity and anxiety‐like response were normal. The histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses, made after behavioural tests, revealed the disrupted integrity of neuronal populations and connecting fibres in hippocampus and prefrontal and entorhinal cortices, which are involved in memory processes. An electrophysiological evaluation of theCA1 region ofin vitrohippocampal slices indicated a decrease in the efficiency of excitatory synaptic transmission and impaired paired pulse facilitation, but enhanced long‐term potentiation (LTP) associated with hyperexcitability inBCNU‐treated rats compared with controls. The enhancedLTP, associated with hyperexcitability, may indicate a pathological distortion of long‐term plasticity. These findings suggest that prenatal developmental insults at the time of peak cortical neurogenesis can induce anatomical abnormalities associated with severe impairment of spatial working memory in adultBCNU‐treated rats and may help to clarify the pathophysiological mechanisms of cognitive dysfunction that is often associated with epilepsy in patients withCD.
Novel approaches to epilepsy treatment
Authors: Sørensen Andreas T. , Kokaia Merab
Published: October 2012

The aim of epilepsy treatment is to achieve complete seizure freedom. Nonetheless, numerous side effects and seizure resistance to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) affecting about 30–40% of all patients are main unmet needs in today’s epileptology. For this reason, novel approaches to treat epilepsy are highly needed. Herein, we highlight recent progress in stem‐cell–based and gene transfer–based therapies in epilepsy according to findings in animal models and address their potential clinical application. Multiple therapeutic targets are described, including neuropeptides, neurotrophic factors, and inhibitory neurotransmitters. We also address new molecular‐genetic approaches utilizing optogenetic technology. The therapeutic strategies presented herein are predominately aimed toward treatment of partial/focal epilepsies, but could also be envisaged for targeting key seizure propagation areas in the brain. These novel strategies provide proof‐of‐principle for developing effective treatments for refractory epilepsy in the foreseeable future.
Magnetic source imaging and ictal SPECT in MRI‐negative neocortical epilepsies: Additional value and comparison with intracranial EEG
Authors: Schneider Felix , Irene Wang Z. , Alexopoulos Andreas V. , Almubarak Salah , Kakisaka Yosuke , Jin Kazutaka , Nair Dileep , Mosher John C. , Najm Imad M. , Burgess Richard C.
Published: October 2012

Purpose:  To investigate the utility of magnetic source imaging (MSI) and ictal single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), each compared with intracranial electroencephalography (EEG) (ICEEG), to localize the epileptogenic zone (EZ) and predict epilepsy surgery outcome in patients with nonlesional neocortical focal epilepsy.

Methods:  Studied were 14 consecutive patients with nonlesional neocortical epilepsy who underwent presurgical evaluation including ICEEG, positive MSI, and localizing subtraction Ictal SPECT coregistered to MRI (SISCOM) analysis. Follow‐up after epilepsy surgery was ≥24 months. ICEEG, MSI, and SPECT results were classified using a sublobar classification.

Key Findings:  Of 14 patients, 6 (42.9%) became seizure‐free after surgery. Sublobar ICEEG focus was completely resected in 11 patients; 5 (45.5%) of them became seizure‐ free. Concordance of ICEEG and MSI and complete focus resection was found in 5 (35.7%) patients; 80% of them became seizure‐free. Sublobar ICEEG‐MSI concordance and complete focus resection significantly increased the chance of seizure freedom after epilepsy surgery (p = 0.038). In contrast, of the 6 patients (42.9%) with concordant ICEEG and SISCOM and complete focus resection, only 66.7% became seizure‐free (p = 0.138). Assuming concordant results, the additive value to ICEEG alone for localizing the EZ is higher with ICEEG‐MSI (odds ratio 14) compared to ICEEG‐SISCOM (odds ratio 6).

Significance:  This study shows that combination of MSI and/or SISCOM with ICEEG is useful in the presurgical evaluation of patients with nonlesional neocortical epilepsy. Concordant test results of either MSI or SISCOM with ICEEG provide useful additive information for that provided by ICEEG alone to localize the EZ in this most challenging group of patients. When sublobar concordance with ICEEG is observed, MSI is more advantageous compared to SISCOM in predicting seizure‐free epilepsy surgery outcome.
Association between epilepsy and cysticercosis and toxocariasis: A population‐based case–control study in a slum in India
Authors: Singh Gagandeep , Bawa Jasleena , Chinna Deepinder , Chaudhary Anurag , Saggar Kavita , Modi Manish , Sander Josemir W.
Published: October 2012

Purpose:  To assess the association between epilepsy and exposure to the parasites, Toxocara canis and Taenia solium in a slum‐community in India.

Methods:  A door‐to‐door survey to determine the prevalence of epilepsy was carried out by trained field workers. For every case, one age‐ and gender‐matched control was selected from the same community. Serologic evaluation was carried out to detect antibodies against T. canis and T. solium.

Key Findings:  The crude prevalence of active epilepsy was 7.2 per 1,000. We enrolled 114 people with active epilepsy and 114 controls. The prevalence of antibodies to T. canis was similar in people with active epilepsy (4.7%; 5 of 106 people) and in controls (5.7%; 6 of 106 people). The prevalence of antibodies to T. solium was 25.5% (27 of 106) in people with active epilepsy, significantly higher than in controls (12.3%; 13 of 106 cases; p = 0.02). Adjusted conditional (fixed‐effects) logistic regression estimated an odds ratio of 2.8 (95% confidence interval 1.2–6.8) for detection of T. solium antibodies. Nineteen people with active epilepsy demonstrated evidence of neurocysticercosis (NCC) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including 7 (36.5%) with solitary cysticercus granuloma.

Significance:  Our findings do not support an association between epilepsy and exposure to T. canis in the community studied. A significant association between T. solium exposure and epilepsy was observed. Of those with active epilepsy and evidence of NCC on MRI, a large proportion demonstrated solitary cysticercus granuloma.
Posthemispherectomy hydrocephalus: Results of a comprehensive, multiinstitutional review
Authors: Lew Sean M. , Matthews Anne E. , Hartman Adam L. , Haranhalli Neil ,   on behalf of the Post‐Hemispherectomy Hydrocephalus Workgroup
Published: October 2012

Purpose:  Hemispherectomy surgery for medically intractable epilepsy is known to cause hydrocephalus in a subset of patients. Existing data regarding the incidence of, and risk factors for, developing posthemispherectomy hydrocephalus have been limited by the relatively small number of cases performed by any single center. Our goal was to better understand this phenomenon and to identify risk factors that may predispose patients to developing hydrocephalus after hemispherectomy surgery.

Methods:  Fifteen pediatric epilepsy centers participated in this study. A retrospective chart review was performed on all available patients who had hemispherectomy surgery. Data collected included surgical techniques, etiology of seizures, prior brain surgery, symptoms and signs of hydrocephalus, timing of shunt placement, and basic demographics.

Key Findings:  Data were collected from 736 patients who underwent hemispherectomy surgery between 1986 and 2011. Forty‐six patients had preexisting shunted hydrocephalus and were excluded from analysis, yielding 690 patients for this study. One hundred sixty‐two patients (23%) required hydrocephalus treatment. The timing of hydrocephalus ranged from the immediate postoperative period to 8.5 years after surgery, with 43 patients (27%) receiving shunts >90 days after surgery. Multivariate regression analysis revealed anatomic hemispherectomies (odds ratio [OR] 4.1, p < 0.0001) and previous brain surgery (OR 1.7, p = 0.04) as independent significant risk factors for developing hydrocephalus. There was a trend toward significance for the use of hemostatic agents (OR 2.2, p = 0.07) and the involvement of basal ganglia or thalamus in the resection (OR 2.2, p = 0.08) as risk factors.

Significance:  Hydrocephalus is a common sequela of hemispherectomy surgery. Surgical technique and prior brain surgery influence the occurrence of posthemispherectomy hydrocephalus. A significant portion of patients develop hydrocephalus on a delayed basis, indicating the need for long‐term surveillance.
What determines the climatic niche width of species? The role of spatial and temporal climatic variation in three vertebrate clades
Authors: Quintero Ignacio , Wiens John J.
Published: October 2012

Aim

Climatic niche breadth (the range of climatic conditions that a species experiences over space and time) is a fundamental topic in ecology, biogeography and evolution. But what determines the climatic niche width of species? In 1967, Janzen suggested that climatic niche widths for temperature were determined by levels of seasonal fluctuation in temperature at each locality, such that niche breadths are narrow in tropical species and broad in temperate species. However, it is unclear whether climatic niche breadths of species are determined more by seasonal variability within sites as opposed to climatic variation between sites across the species’ range. We address this question here.

Location

Global.

Methods

We analysed three vertebrate clades (plethodontid salamanders, hylid frogs and phrynosomatid lizards) for which we had phylogenetic information and climatic data from localities throughout each species’ geographic range, collectively including 409 species. We tested how climatic niche breadths of localities (i.e. temporal variation) are related to overall species climatic niche breadths (i.e. temporal and spatial variation) using phylogenetic comparative methods, focusing both on temperature extremes and precipitation.

Results

Across the three clades, we find that niche breadths for single localities generally span most of the species’ climatic niche breadth, and are strongly correlated with overall species niche breadths. However, species with wider climatic niches also tend to show greater climatic divergence between localities.

Main conclusions

The extent to which the climatic niche breadths of species are determined by variation within localities versus spatial variation between localities has been largely unexplored. Our results suggest that within‐locality seasonal variation explains most variation in climatic niche breadths among species. However, between‐locality variation and local adaptation may also play some role. These results require more general testing, but have several important implications.
Beta‐diversity patterns elucidate mechanisms of alien plant invasion in mountains
Authors: Marini Lorenzo , Bertolli Alessio , Bona Enzo , Federici Germano , Martini Fabrizio , Prosser Filippo , Bommarco Riccardo
Published: October 2012

Aim

Our aims were: (1) to separately evaluate the elevational patterns of β‐diversity for nestedness, species richness difference and replacement, (2) to identify the drivers of β‐diversity patterns by testing the effect of geographical and environmental distance (human population, temperature and land‐use), and (3) to compare the response on native versus alien species to elucidate mechanisms of community assembly along elevational gradients.

Location

Two mountain regions (Bergamo‐Brescia and Trento) in the Italian Alps.

Methods

We used two floristic datasets in which species composition was sampled within two regular grids. First, we extracted species elevational range and quantified species composition nestedness along the elevational gradient. Second, we partitioned β‐diversity into its species richness difference and replacement components and tested drivers using regression on distance matrix and hierarchical partitioning. All analyses were performed on natives and aliens, separately.

Results

For aliens, we found lack of mountain specialists (i.e. species with a distribution range restricted to high elevations), large nestedness, large species richness difference and low species replacement between low and high elevations. All findings point in the same direction: a great majority of alien species were introduced to the lowlands and only a subset of this community spread up the mountains. Both human pressures and temperature selection were important processes underpinning the observed filtering, while geographical and land‐use distances were not important. Natives present contrasting patterns with large replacement along the elevation gradients indicating different mechanisms of community assembly.

Main conclusions

The relatively large alien species replacement in the lowlands indicated the presence of a pool of species that may potentially invade the temperate mountains in the future. Investigations of the identity of alien species occurring in the lowlands and their climatic pre‐adaptation might provide tools to prevent invasions in the mountains by predicting the potential invaders and their future elevational distribution.
A practical approach to immunohistochemical diagnosis of ovarian germ cell tumours and sex cord–stromal tumours
Authors: Rabban Joseph T , Zaloudek Charles J
Published: October 2012

Immunohistochemistry can be useful in the diagnosis of ovarian germ cell tumours and sex cord–stromal tumours. A wide variety of markers are available, including many that are novel. The aim of this review is to provide a practical approach to the selection and interpretation of these markers, emphasizing an understanding of their sensitivity and specificity in the particular differential diagnosis in question. The main markers discussed include those for malignant germ cell differentiation (SALL4 and placental alkaline phosphatase), dysgerminoma (OCT4, CD117, and D2‐40), yolk sac tumour (α‐fetoprotein and glypican‐3), embryonal carcinoma (OCT4, CD30, and SOX2), sex cord–stromal differentiation (calretinin, inhibin, SF‐1, FOXL2) and steroid cell tumours (melan‐A). In addition, the limited role of immunohistochemistry in determining the primary site of origin of an ovarian carcinoid tumour is discussed.
Metabolic analysis of the cutaneous fungi Malassezia globosa and M. restricta for insights on scalp condition and dandruff
Authors: Gordon James A. , Abraham Karen H. , Cox Diana S. , Moore Alison E. , Pople Jennifer E.
Published: October 2012

Synopsis

Dandruff is a global consumer problem, characterized by flaking and scaling of the scalp, accompanied by itch and irritancy. However, the aetiology of the condition remains poorly understood, although there is a strong consensus that the cutaneous fungi Malassezia globosa and M. restricta are a major contributory factor. Although there is a paucity of understanding on how these commensal microorganisms adopt a pathogenic phenotype, a rich source of potential insights now exists in the shape of the recently published whole‐genome sequence of M. globosa, a functional annotation and metabolic reconstruction of which is freely accessible via the integrated microbial genomes (IMG) online community resource (http://www.hmpdacc-resources.org/cgi-bin/imgm_hmp/main.cgi). In these studies, we have taken a combined in‐silico and in‐vitro approach to investigate aspects of lipid and amino acid metabolism by M. globosa and M. restricta that have the potential to impact on scalp condition and dandruff. The IMG platform was employed to analyse the metabolism of triacylglycerols and fatty acids, as well as the aromatic amino acid tryptophan, by M. globosa, to investigate pro‐inflammatory pathways linked in the literature to dandruff and pityriasis versicolour, respectively. Results were equivocal, leaving question marks over the ability of M. globosa to fully degrade unsaturated fatty acids and metabolize tryptophan to indole‐3‐pyruvic acid. In‐vitro assay systems were then developed to study the biotransformation of these metabolites by both M. globosa and M. restricta, as well as their effect on human keratinocytes, and the results here indicated that neither unsaturated fatty acids nor indole derivatives are likely to be major aetiological factors in dandruff.
Neuropsychological profile in adults with neurofibromatosis type 1 compared to a control group
Authors: Descheemaeker M.‐J. , Plasschaert E. , Frijns J.‐P. , Legius E.
Published: October 2012

Background

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common inherited autosomal dominant condition, characterised by multiple café‐au‐lait macules, axillary and/or inguinal freckling, iris Lisch nodules and tumours of the nervous system such as neurofibromas and optic pathway gliomas. At the same time, NF1 is frequently associated with intellectual disabilities across several neuropsychological domains. Existing neuropsychological data in NF1 adults are limited and sometimes contradictory. Moreover, most studies use a non‐IQ‐controlled norm group for comparison. This study sought to investigate specific neuropsychological characteristics in intellectual abilities unrelated to the global intellectual capacity.

Method

Twenty NF1 adults and an IQ‐, age‐ and gender‐matched control group completed a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery composed of specific cognitive tests investigating visual‐spatial abilities and memory, auditory memory, selective and sustained attention and executive functioning. A short version of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale – III was also administered to both groups.

Results

Norm comparison showed that both groups perform poorly on most neuropsychological functions, except for sustained attention. However, comparison with the IQ‐matched control group showed significantly lower scores on visual‐spatial abilities and memory, on auditory working memory and on tests for cognitive flexibility in NF1 adults. Nevertheless, as the significant difference in average estimated IQ score between the NF1 group and the selected control group almost reaches the 5% significance level, further analysis is needed to include IQ as a covariate. Eventually, problems in visual‐spatial skills and auditory long‐term memory seem to be specific NF1‐related deficits, while problems in attention and executive functioning are particularly related to their general lowered intellectual abilities.

Conclusion

Taking into account that primary visual perception problems could be part of a more general central coherence deficit while interpreting auditory memory problems as possibly related to deficits in language use and comprehension, this idea also fits with the observation of several problems in social information processing and functioning of NF1 persons.
Lipaemic plasma induces haemolysis in resuspended red cell concentrate
Authors: Bashir S. , Wiltshire M. , Cardigan R. , Thomas S.
Published: October 2012

Introduction  We investigated whether haemolysis in red cells suspended in plasma was affected by the lipid content and/or methylene blue (MB) treatment of fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP). We also investigated whether haemolysis was affected by the conditions under which lipaemic plasma was stored.

Methods  Study 1: Visibly lipaemic (n = 22) or nonlipaemic FFP (n = 24) units were thawed, pooled and split into identical pairs, one of which was MB treated. These units were used to resuspend red cell concentrates (RCC) and tested for haemolysis immediately and after 24 and 48 h of storage at 2–6°C. Study 2: Fresh plasma was aliquoted into 15‐ml tubes and stored in one of four ways as follows: room temperature; 2–6°C; frozen and thawed; or twice frozen and thawed. A sample of RCC was resuspended in each of these plasmas and haemolysis measured after 2 h. Study 3: Plasma was divided into 15‐ml tubes and stored as in study 2 followed by storage left standing upright in a refrigerator (2–6°C) for 24 h (with the exception of the room temperature sample). Plasma was separated into top, middle and bottom fractions and used to resuspend RCC that were assessed for haemolysis after 2 h.

Results  The levels of haemolysis in RCC were immediately greater when suspended in lipaemic plasma (0·70 ± 0·53% v 0·05 ± 0·06% for nonlipaemic plasma), which increased further on subsequent storage for 48 h (1·22 ± 0·40% v 0·15 ± 0·14% for nonlipaemic plasma). This was irrespective of whether plasma was MB treated. Lipaemic plasma stored frozen and then thawed resulted in the greatest haemolysis. In lipaemic plasma stored at 2–6°C, the chylomicron‐rich top fraction caused the highest level of haemolysis.

Conclusion  Haemolysis in red cells is increased in those suspended in lipaemic plasma and is dependent upon the storage conditions of that plasma prior to suspension. These data are relevant to the choice of plasma used to suspend red cells for neonatal exchange transfusion.
The protective effects of 6‐CySeCD with GPx activity against UVB‐induced injury in HaCaT cells
Authors: Li Xin , Zhang Lin , Xu Ya‐Wei , Wang Cheng , Zhao Yang , Yu Ping , Lv Shao‐Wu , Yan Gang‐Lin , Liu Jun‐Qiu , Luo Gui‐Min
Published: October 2012

Background

The generation of harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by UVB irradiation could induce cell apoptosis and change the cell cycle. 6A,6A′‐dicyclohexylamine‐6B,6B′‐diselenide‐bis‐β‐cyclodextrin (6‐CySeCD) is a novel glutathione peroxidase (GPx; EC 1.11.1.9) mimic. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti‐oxidative effects of 6‐CySeCD in cultured immortalised human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT).

Methods

HaCaT cells were treated with 30 mJ/cm2 UVB to establish a damage model. The cultured HaCaT cells were randomly assigned to the control, UVB and treatment groups. The treatment group was incubated with 20 μmol/L of GPx mimics before UVB irradiation. Cell viability was detected by (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, the level of lipid peroxidation was determined by the formation of malondialdehyde (MDA), DNA fragmentation was observed using agarose gel electrophoresis and the levels of intracellular ROS and cell cycle progression were measured by flow cytometry.

Results

The levels of cytotoxicity, intracellular ROS, lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage significantly increased after UVB irradiation in the HaCaT cells. UVB irradiation caused pre‐G1‐phase arrest in HaCaT cells and significantly reduced the number of HaCaT cells in the S phase. The GPx mimics 6‐CySeCD and 2‐phenyl‐l,2‐benzisoselenazol‐3(2H)‐one (ebselen) significantly blocked UVB‐induced apoptosis and changed the cell cycle of the HaCaT cells. The blocked effect of pretreatment 6‐CySeCD in UVB‐irradiated HaCaT cells was better than that of pretreatment with ebselen.

Conclusion

6‐CySeCD can relieve the damage induced by UVB irradiation in HaCaT cells.
Impact of consultant operative supervision and surgical mortality in Australia
Authors: Wong Teresa Hoi Ian , Guy Gordon , Babidge Wendy , Maddern Guy J.
Published: October 2012

Background

In this study, the Australian and New Zealand Audit of Surgical Mortality evaluated the effect of operative supervision on certain post‐operative outcomes in the surgical death subset.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was based upon mortality data collected in 2009 which included 1673 patients who died and had surgery within 30 days of death or during the last admission. Cases were divided into three groups: consultant not supervising (group NS), consultant supervising (group S) and consultant performing the operation (group C). A comparison was done nationally and between participating states in Australia. Certain post‐operative outcomes were compared between the three groups as well as between elective and emergency operations.

Results

There were significant variations in the levels of operative supervision among states in Australia. Group NS (n = 468) generally had more favourable post‐operative outcomes than group S (n = 147) and group C (n = 1058), with post‐operative complication rates of 24.8%, 37.4% and 40.9% for groups NS, S and C, respectively. The level of operative supervision in emergency operations was half that of elective operations. Nevertheless, the post‐operative complications rate was significantly lower in emergency operations (30.6%) compared with elective operations (64.4%). The same trend was seen with clinical management deficiencies and unplanned return to theatre.

Conclusion

Operative supervision in emergency setting within Australian hospitals appears to be potentially inadequate. However, the available data suggest that unsupervised surgery did not result in worse post‐operative outcomes. In appropriately selected cases, the data support surgical registrars performing surgery without consultant supervision.
Combining Genetic Algorithms with a Meso‐Scale Approach for System Identification of a Smart Polymeric Textile
Authors: Fuggini C. , Chatzi E. , Zangani D.
Published: October 2012

Abstract:  This article describes a structural system identification approach for the characterization of a novel retrofitting textile, the “Composite Seismic Wallpaper.” This polymeric textile was developed within the EU co‐funded project Polytect as a full coverage method for increasing the seismic resistance of masonry structures. Recently, the wallpaper has been full‐scale tested, on a two storey building, at the Eucentre (Pavia) as part of the Seismic Engineering Research Infrastructures for European Synergies (SERIES) program. In this article, an advanced multistage identification methodology is proposed for the successful simulation of this novel material based on the results of the extensive experimental campaign. The identification is essentially formulated as an inverse problem that combines a Genetic Algorithm (GA) as the optimizer and a finite element (FE) model as the physical model of the structure. The aim is material characterization and modeling of the dynamic response of the structure; an issue which is nontrivial due to the intrinsic complexities associated with both masonry and polymers. The process outlined herein is successful in yielding a calibrated model that can more accurately capture the experimentally observed behavior of this three‐dimensional full‐scale test case.
Moral Foundations and Heterogeneity in Ideological Preferences
Authors: Weber Christopher R. , Federico Christopher M.
Published: October 2012

Scholars have documented numerous examples of how liberals and conservatives differ in considering public policy. Recent work in political psychology has sought to understand these differences by detailing the ways in which liberals and conservatives approach political and social issues. In their moral foundations theory, Haidt and Joseph contend the divisions between liberals and conservatives are rooted in different views of morality. They demonstrate that humans consistently rely on five moral foundations. Two of these foundations—harm and fairness—are often labeled the individualizing foundations, as they deal with the role of individuals within social groups; the remaining three foundations—authority, ingroup loyalty, and purity—are the binding foundations as they pertain to the formation and maintenance of group bonds. Graham, Haidt, and Nosek demonstrate that liberals tend to disproportionately value the individualizing foundations, whereas conservatives value all five foundations equally. We extend this line of inquiry by examining whether different types of liberals and conservatives value the moral foundations to varying degrees. Using survey data (n = 745), we rely on a mixed‐mode latent class analysis and identify six ideological classes that favor unique social and fiscal policy positions. While most of the respondents belonging to these classes self‐identify as conservative, they endorse the moral foundations in varying degrees. Since our findings demonstrate considerable heterogeneity with respect to ideology and moral preferences, we conclude by encouraging scholars to consider this heterogeneity in detailing the motivational and psychological foundations of ideological belief.
Return Migration: The Experience of Eastern Europe1
Authors: Martin Reiner , Radu Dragos
Published: October 2012

Over the last decade, a significant share of the labour force in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) has been exposed to work spells abroad followed by return migration. Although there is a growing literature on CEE return migration, most previous studies are country‐specific and no enquiry for the region as a whole has been undertaken so far. In this paper, we attempt to fill this gap. We collate data from the European Union (EU) Labour Force Survey (EU‐LFS) for a cross‐country analysis of return migration in CEE countries. The aim of the paper is threefold. We first review the available evidence and literature on the characteristics and labour market behaviour of return migrants in CEE countries. Second, we provide a descriptive analysis of recent returnees using EU‐LFS data. Third, we specifically analyse the income premia for work experience abroad, the occupational choices and the selectivity patterns of recent returnees in CEE countries from a cross‐country perspective. Consistent with previous results, we find that the average income premia for work abroad range between 10 per cent and 45 per cent. Migrants are less likely to actively participate in the labour market upon return. They are, however, more likely to choose self‐employment rather than dependent employment upon return. Recent migrants are also more likely to experience spells of unemployment in the first year after their return. The latter two findings are reversed, however, when adjusting for the unobserved heterogeneity of return migrants and for regional effects.
Accurate assessment of drooling severity with the 5‐minute drooling quotient in children with developmental disabilities
Authors: van HULST KAREN , LINDEBOOM ROBERT , van der BURG JAN , JONGERIUS PETER
Published: October 2012

Aim  The aims of this study were to examine whether objective measurements of the 10‐minute drooling quotient (DQ10) and the 5‐minute drooling quotient (DQ5) are interchangeable; to assess agreement between the measurements and their accuracy in classifying drooling severity; and to develop a time‐efficient clinical assessment.

Method  The study cohort included 162 children (61 females, 101 males; mean age 11y 6mo, SD 4y 5mo, range 3y 9mo–22y 1mo) suffering from moderate to profuse drooling. One hundred and twenty‐four had cerebral palsy and 38 had other developmental disabilities. Seventy‐four of the participants were ambulant and 88 non‐ambulant. The original DQ10 was recalculated into a 5‐minute score (DQ5). Assessments were undertaken while the participants were in a rest situation (DQR) and while they were active (DQA). Agreement in scores was quantified using intraclass correlations and Bland–Altman plots. To classify drooling, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to compare accuracy of the DQ10 and DQ5 at rest and during activity.

Results  Agreement between DQ10A, and DQ5A, and between DQ10R and DQ5R was high (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.90). Moderate agreement existed between DQA and DQR. DQA scores were more accurate in classifying children’s drooling behaviour. For DQ5A, a cut‐off point of 18 or more (drooling episodes/observation time) might indicate ‘constant drooling’.

Interpretation  The DQ10 and DQ5 can be used interchangeably. DQA is most discriminative for drooling severity. For evaluating treatment efficiency the cut‐off point can be used. For clinical and research purposes, the DQ5 is time efficient and cost saving while validity, and intrarater and interrater reliability are preserved.
On the origin of tunnel valleys of the Saginaw Lobe of the Laurentide Ice Sheet; Michigan, USA
Authors: Kehew Alan E. , Ewald Stephanie K. , Esch John M. , Kozlowski Andrew L.
Published: October 2012

Tunnel valleys are common throughout the terrain of the Saginaw Lobe of the Laurentide Ice Sheet in southern Michigan. The set of valleys described in this paper is regularly spaced in a radial pattern behind the Kalamazoo Moraine, an ice‐marginal position formed during retreat from the Last Glacial Maximum. These valleys are divided into proximal and distal groups lying north and south, respectively, of a major river valley that cross‐cuts the tunnel valleys at right angles. Based on a series of rotasonic borings and core analysis, the proximal valleys are shallow, contain minimal sediment fill, and overlie fine‐grained diamicton and glaciolacustrine sediment, whereas the distal valleys are deeply incised into the substrate and are partially filled with coarse sediment. The distal valleys terminate within a broad zone of high‐relief, hummocky topography representing stagnation and collapse behind the Kalamazoo ice margin. The proximal valleys occur within a more subdued landscape located farther from the ice margin. Although some elements of existing genetic models are consistent with these valleys, none appears to be completely compatible with their stratigraphy and morphology. Initial incision of the valleys could have involved short‐lived moderate‐ to high‐discharge flows, followed by deposition during or after the events. The deep incision and thick, coarse sediment in distal valleys in the stagnant marginal zone probably involved supraglacial meltwater draining to the bed as the margin downwasted. Fining‐upward eskers inset into the valleys were formed by flows of declining energy in small late‐stage conduits.
Ripple classification helps to localize the seizure‐onset zone in neocortical epilepsy
Authors: Wang Shuang , Wang Irene Z. , Bulacio Juan C. , Mosher John C. , Gonzalez‐Martinez Jorge , Alexopoulos Andreas V. , Najm Imad M. , So Norman K.
Published: October 2012

Purpose:  Fast ripples are reported to be highly localizing to the epileptogenic or seizure‐onset zone (SOZ) but may not be readily found in neocortical epilepsy, whereas ripples are insufficiently localizing. Herein we classified interictal neocortical ripples by associated characteristics to identify a subtype that may help to localize the SOZ in neocortical epilepsy. We hypothesize that ripples associated with an interictal epileptiform discharge (IED) are more pathologic, since the IED is not a normal physiologic event.

Methods:  We studied 35 patients with epilepsy with neocortical epilepsy who underwent invasive electroencephalography (EEG) evaluation by stereotactic EEG (SEEG) or subdural grid electrodes. Interictal fast ripples and ripples were visually marked during slow‐wave sleep lasting 10–30 min. Neocortical ripples were classified as type I when superimposed on epileptiform discharges such as paroxysmal fast, spike, or sharp wave, and as type II when independent of epileptiform discharges.

Key Findings:  In 21 patients with a defined SOZ, neocortical fast ripples were detected in the SOZ of only four patients. Type I ripples were detected in 14 cases almost exclusively in the SOZ or primary propagation area (PP) and marked the SOZ with higher specificity than interictal spikes. In contrast, type II ripples were not correlated with the SOZ. In 14 patients with two or more presumed SOZs or nonlocalizable onset pattern, type I but not type II ripples also occurred in the SOZs. We found the areas with only type II ripples outside of the SOZ (type II‐O ripples) in SEEG that localized to the primary motor cortex and primary visual cortex.

Significance:  Neocortical fast ripples and type I ripples are specific markers of the SOZ, whereas type II ripples are not. Type I ripples are found more readily than fast ripples in human neocortical epilepsy. Type II‐O ripples may represent spontaneous physiologic ripples in the human neocortex.
Using Life Cycle Assessment to Evaluate Green and Grey Combined Sewer Overflow Control Strategies
Authors: De Sousa Maria R. C. , Montalto Franco A. , Spatari Sabrina
Published: October 2012

Decentralized approaches to managing urban stormwater are gaining increased attention within the contexts of urban sustainability, climate change adaptation, and as a means of reducing combined sewer overflows (CSOs). This study applied a life cycle assessment (LCA) to comparing the environmental efficiency of three means of equivalently reducing CSOs to the Bronx River (Bronx, NY, USA). Strategy 1 featured decentralized green infrastructure technologies, while “grey” strategies 2 and 3 detained, and detained and treated, respectively, excess flows at the end of pipe. We estimated greenhouse gas emissions (in metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents [t CO2‐eq]) over the construction, operation, and maintenance phases, including energy consumed at the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), carbon sequestered, and shading provided by vegetation (in the case of the green approach) over a 50‐year analysis period. The study area comprised the entire drainage area contributing to New York State permitted CSO discharge points associated with the Hunts Point WWTP. The analysis was performed using a hybrid of process and economic input‐output (EIO) LCA methods. The decentralized green strategy outperformed the two grey strategies in terms of this set of environmental metrics. The net emissions of the green strategy over 50 years was 19,000 t CO2‐eq, whereas the grey strategies emitted 85,000 t CO2‐eq (detention) and 400,000 t CO2‐eq (detention and treatment). These results were significantly influenced by the emissions associated with the operation and maintenance activities required for strategies 2 and 3, and the carbon sequestered and shading provided by the vegetation in strategy 1, and suggest that watershed managers who seek to reduce CSOs and reduce carbon footprints would opt for the green approach.
Evaluation of the Radiopacity of Luting Cements by Digital Radiography
Authors: Altintas Subutay Han , Yildirim Tahsin , Kayipmaz Saadettin , Usumez Aslihan
Published: October 2012

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the radiopacity of eight contemporary luting cements using direct digital radiography.

Materials and Methods

Ten specimens, (5 mm diameter, 1 mm high) were prepared for each material tested (RelyX ARC, RelyX U100, RelyX Unicem, Nexus 2, Nexus 3, Metacem, Breeze, Adhesor zinc phosphate). The specimens were stored in a moist chamber at 37°C until completely set, then radiographed using a Kodak digital sensor and an aluminum step wedge with variable thicknesses (1 to 13 mm in 1‐mm increments) used for reference. A Kodak 2100 intraoral X‐ray unit was operated at 60 kV, 7 mA, and 0.20 seconds. According to international standards, the radiopacity of the specimens was compared with that of the aluminum step wedge using the equal‐density area tool of the Kodak Dental Imaging software (ver. 6.7). Data were analyzed by ANOVA and Tukey's test.

Results

Adhesor zinc phosphate cement showed the highest radiopacity of all materials and dentin. Breeze showed the lowest radiopacity (p < 0.05). No significant difference in radiopacity was observed between dentin and RelyX ARC, Nexus 2, or Metacem (p > 0.05). The radiopacities of Nexus 3 and RelyX Unicem were significantly higher than those of other resin cements and dentin (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

All materials showed radiopacity above the minimum recommended by the International Organization for Standardization and the American National Standards/American Dental Association. Breeze had less radiopacity than dentin.
Detorque Evaluation of Dental Abutment Screws after Immersion in a Fluoridated Artificial Saliva Solution
Authors: Duarte Antônio R.C. , Neto João P. Silva , Souza Júlio C.M. , Bonachela Wellington C.
Published: October 2012

Purpose

Implant‐abutment connections still present failures in the oral cavity due to the loosening of mechanical integrity by detorque and corrosion of the abutment screws. The objective of this study was to evaluate the detorque of dental abutment screws before and after immersion in fluoridated solutions.

Materials and Methods

Five commercial implant‐abutment assemblies were assessed in this investigation: (C) Conexão®, (E) Emfils®, (I) INP®, (S) SIN®, and (T) Titanium Fix®. The implants were embedded in an acrylic resin and then placed in a holding device. The abutments were first connected to the implants and torqued to 20 Ncm using a handheld torque meter. The detorque values of the abutments were evaluated after 10 minutes. After applying a second torque of 20 Ncm, implant‐abutment assemblies were withdrawn every 3 hours for 12 hours in a fluoridated solution over a period of 90 days. After that period, detorque of the abutments was examined. Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) associated to energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) was applied to inspect the surfaces of abutments.

Results

Detorque values of systems C, E, and I immersed in the fluoridated solution were significantly higher than those of the initial detorque. ANOVA demonstrated no significant differences in detorque values between designs S and T. Signs of localized corrosion could not be detected by SEM although chemical analysis by EDS showed the presence of elements involved in corrosive processes.

Conclusion

An increase of detorque values recorded on abutments after immersion in fluoridated artificial saliva solutions was noticed in this study. Regarding chemical analysis, such an increase of detorque can result from a corrosion layer formed between metallic surfaces at static contact in the implant‐abutment joint during immersion in the fluoridated solutions.