bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
End‐Recovery QTc: A Useful Metric for Assessing Genetic Variants of Unknown Significance in Long‐QT syndrome
Authors: OBEYESEKERE MANOJ N. , SY RAYMOND W. , KLEIN GEORGE J. , GULA LORNE J. , MODI SIMON , CONACHER SUSAN , LEONG‐SIT PETER , SKANES ALLAN C. , YEE RAYMOND , KRAHN ANDREW D.
Published: March 2012

QTc for Assessing Significance of LQT Variants.

 Introduction: Genetic variants represent benign single‐nucleotide polymorphisms, disease causing mutations or variants of unknown significance (VUS). Resting, exercise, and recovery QTc intervals have been utilized to detect long‐QT syndrome (LQTS) mutations. We sought to provide clinical data that may assist in classifying the presented VUS as disease causing/benign and to determine whether resting and/or end‐recovery QT parameters can evaluate the significance of VUS.

Methods and Results: Twenty‐six patients with a VUS in genes associated with LQTS (15 females, age 38 ± 16 years) and 26 age and gender matched controls (age 37 ± 20 years) were included. There were 10 VUS (5 KCNQ1, 4 KCNH2, 1 KCNE1) in 12 families. All but 1 VUS was associated with sudden cardiac death (SCD), aborted SCD or Torsade de pointes. A Schwartz score of ≥3.5 was observed in at least 1 family member with each VUS. Resting QTc was marginally longer in VUS patients compared with controls (458 ± 48 vs 437 ± 25, P = 0.052). A prolonged resting QTc (>470 ms males, >480 ms females) identified 6 VUS carriers and 1 control. VUS carriers had a substantially longer end‐recovery QTc (502 ± 68 vs 427 ± 17, P < 0.01) with an end‐recovery QTc > 445 ms in 20/26 VUS patients compared to 2/26 controls (P < 0.01). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for resting QTc was 0.68 (95% CI, 0.53–0.83, P = 0.03) compared to the end‐recovery QTc of 0.88 (95% CI, 0.76–0.99, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion: Variants in the current study appear to be disease causing. The end‐recovery QTc is a useful metric when interpreting LQT VUS. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 637–642, June 2012)
Superiority of Gold versus Platinum Irrigated Tip Catheter Ablation of the Pulmonary Veins and the Cavotricuspid Isthmus: A Randomized Study Comparing Tip Temperatures and Cooling Flow Requirements
Authors: LINHART MARKUS , LIBERMAN ILJA , SCHRICKEL JAN WILKO , MITTMANN‐BRAUN ERICA LILIAN , ANDRIÉ RENÉ , STÖCKIGT FLORIAN , KREUZ JENS , NICKENIG GEORG , LICKFETT LARS MARTIN
Published: March 2012

Gold versus Platinum Irrigated Tip Ablation Catheters. Introduction: In order to optimize power delivery into the myocardium during radiofrequency ablation (RFA) without overheating the electrode tip, active cooling of the tip electrode as well as electrode tips made of gold have evolved. Recently, an externally irrigated gold tip electrode ablation catheter has been developed to combine the advantages of these 2 technologies. We sought to investigate the procedural parameters tip temperature, delivered power and cooling flow requirements of the irrigated gold tip catheter in comparison to the conventional irrigated platinum iridium (Pt) tip catheter in pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) ablation.

Methods and Results:
Sixty patients referred for first PVI were randomized into ablation with irrigated gold tip catheter versus irrigated Pt tip catheter. Forty‐nine patients received ablation of CTI following PVI. Mean and standard deviation from all measurements were calculated for each patient. During RFA of pulmonary veins, mean catheter tip temperature was significantly lower in the gold group (35.4 ± 0.9 °C vs 38.2 ± 0.8 °C, P < 0.001), and total amount of delivered energy was higher (1303.1 ± 81.1 W vs 1223.7 ± 115.6 W, P = 0.004). During CTI ablation, necessary saline flow was almost 2.5‐fold lower in the gold group (22.5 ± 5.9 mL/min vs 52.5 ± 9.7 mL/min, P < 0.001), accompanied by significantly lower tip temperature (39.1 ± 0.6 °C vs 40.5 ± 1.4 °C, P < 0.001).

Conclusion:
The irrigated gold tip electrode allows to deliver significantly more energy at a lower electrode tip temperature in RFA of PV and CTI in comparison to the irrigated Pt tip electrode. The required saline flow during CTI ablation is much lower than in Pt. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 717‐721, July 2012)
WE HAVE ALWAYS BEEN MODERN: Museums, Collections, and Modernity in the Caribbean
Authors: Modest Wayne
Published: March 2012

In this article, I explore the ways in which notions of the ancient and the modern have helped to shape early museological interest and practices in the Caribbean. I argue that the Caribbean, and for my purposes Jamaica, occupies an ambiguous place between the ancient and the modern worlds—not ancient enough yet not modern enough—which has resulted in the material culture of the modern Caribbean being largely absent from anthropological (and in fact history) collections both in the Caribbean as well as in museums across Europe. The result is that the region has come to be defined materially primarily through its natural and not its cultural history, and thus is represented as a place of nature and not culture.
ENGAGING WITH PASTS IN THE PRESENT: Curators, Communities, and Exhibition Practice
Authors: Scott Mary Katherine
Published: March 2012

Arising from a one‐day symposium entitled “Ancient and Modern: Exhibiting the Past in the Present” at the University of East Anglia, United Kingdom, the theme for this special issue of Museum Anthropology focuses on contemporary museum practice. The contributors are specifically interested in the challenges of exhibiting “pasts” in the “present” while doing justice to the historical and modern peoples and cultures represented in exhibitions. The authors also explore related ideas about collaboration with source communities and how collecting practices have determined what is considered valuable and thus worthy of display in public museums.
REFLECTIONS ON COLLABORATION: Exhibiting Contemporary Maya Art
Authors: Scott Mary Katherine
Published: March 2012

This article describes the collaboration with Maya artisans during the exhibition, Crafting Maya Identity: Contemporary Wood Sculptures from the Puuc Region of Yucatán, Mexico. The exhibition called into question the applicability of Western systems of value and classification to the aesthetic works of other cultures and also explored notions of contemporary Maya identity in the context of the local tourism industry. The artisans’ presence during the exhibition and their engagement with the public during organized events created opportunities for visitors to learn more about the artisans and their work. This paper takes a critical look at the exhibition's successes and shortcomings by way of feedback from the artisans and the public and offers recommendations for future collaborative projects.
Rituals of Creativity: Tradition, Modernity, and the “Acoustic Unconscious” in a U.S. Collegiate Jazz Music Program
Authors: Wilf Eitan
Published: March 2012

ABSTRACT In this article, I seek to complicate the distinction between imitation and creativity, which has played a dominant role in the modern imaginary and anthropological theory. I focus on a U.S. collegiate jazz music program, in which jazz educators use advanced sound technologies to reestablish immersive interaction with the sounds of past jazz masters against the backdrop of the disappearance of performance venues for jazz. I analyze a key pedagogical practice in the course of which students produce precise replications of the recorded improvisations of past jazz masters and then play them in synchrony with the recordings. Through such synchronous iconization, students inhabit and reenact the creativity epitomized by these recordings. I argue that such a practice, which I call a “ritual of creativity,” suggests a coconstitutive relationship between imitation and creativity, which has intensified under modernity because of the availability of new technologies of digital reproduction. [modernity, creativity, imitation, media technologies, intertextuality]
Cattle Cults of the Arabian Neolithic and Early Territorial Societies
Authors: McCorriston Joy , Harrower Michael , Martin Louise , Oches Eric
Published: March 2012

ABSTRACT  At the cusp of food production, Near Eastern societies adopted new territorial practices, including archaeologically visible sedentism and nonsedentary social defenses more challenging to identify archaeologically. New archaeological and paleoenvironmental evidence for Arabia's earliest‐known sacrifices points to territorial maintenance in arid highland southern Yemen. Here sedentism was not an option prior to agriculture. Seasonally mobile pastoralists developed alternate practices to reify cohesive identities, maintain alliances, and defend territories. Archaeological and paleoenvironmental evidence implies cattle sacrifices were commemorated with a ring of more than 42 cattle skulls and a stone platform buried by 6,400‐year‐old floodplain sediments. Associated with numerous hearths, these cattle rites suggest feasting by a large gathering, with important sociopolitical ramifications for territories. A GIS analysis of the early Holocene landscape indicates constrained pasturage supporting small resident human populations. Cattle sacrifice in southern Arabia suggests a model of mid‐Holocene Neolithic territorial pastoralism under environmental and cultural conditions that made sedentism unsustainable. [prehistory, Arabia, sacrifice, territoriality, Neolithic]
Architecture as Animate Landscape: Circular Shrines in the Ancient Maya Lowlands
Authors: Harrison‐Buck Eleanor
Published: March 2012

ABSTRACT In this study, I develop a theory of landscape archaeology that incorporates the concept of “animism” as a cognitive approach. Current trends in anthropology are placing greater emphasis on indigenous perspectives, and in recent decades animism has seen a resurgence in anthropological theory. As a means of relating in (not to) one's world, animism is a mode of thought that has direct bearing on landscape archaeology. Yet, Americanist archaeologists have been slow to incorporate this concept as a component of landscape theory. I consider animism and Nurit Bird‐David's (1999) theory of “relatedness” and how such perspectives might be expressed archaeologically in Mesoamerica. I examine the distribution of marine shells and cave formations that appear incorporated as architectural elements on ancient Maya circular shrine architecture. More than just “symbols” of sacred geography, I suggest these materials represent living entities that animate shrines through their ongoing relationships with human and other‐than‐human agents in the world. [Maya architecture, animism, relational ontology, landscape archaeology, agency]
Principle or Pathology? Adjudicating the Right to Conscience in the Israeli Military
Authors: Weiss Erica
Published: March 2012

ABSTRACT  The Israeli military's Conscience Committee evaluates and exempts pacifists from obligatory military service, based explicitly on concern for liberal tolerance. However, I found that liberal pacifist applicants’ principled objections to violence challenged the state, and as such, applicants who articulated their refusal in such terms are rejected by the military review board. By contrast, pacifist conscientious objection based in embodied visceral revulsion to violence did not challenge the state and moral order, and such cases were granted exemption. Objections based in understanding pacifism as a physical incapacity depoliticizes it by making it incommensurable with public moral debate concerning military service. The pathologization of pacifism demonstrates a contradiction between liberalism's ideology and its practices, revealing that the limits of liberalism are not only exterior, in nonliberal alterity, but also on liberalism's own interior frontiers. [conscience, military, liberalism, ethics]
Radiating Knowledge: The Public Anthropology of Nuclear Energy
Authors: Brooks Andrew
Published: March 2012

ABSTRACT  In marking the first anniversary of the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant disaster, this essay reviews some of the ways in which anthropologists have intervened in public discourse and policy around nuclear energy over the past 30 years. Many scholars suggest that effective change requires a degree of ongoing public participation in the debate around nuclear power. In arguing for the significance of anthropology in helping to sustain public discussion between crises, I take note of an eerie absence of anthropological voices represented in mainstream media. I suggest that it is often only immediately following a tragedy that anthropological insights percolate into public consciousness. Ultimately, I argue that it is the responsibility of those in our discipline to continue to push for a more inclusive and thoughtful dialogue about nuclear energy. [public anthropology, public debate, Fukushima, nuclear energy, media representation]
Synthesis and Properties of SrBi2Ta2O9‐Based Glass‐Ceramics Modified with Eu3+
Authors: Tarafder Anal , Molla Atiar R. , Mukhopadhyay Sunanda , Karmakar Basudeb
Published: March 2012

The Eu3+‐doped novel precursor glass in the K2O–SiO2–SrO–Bi2O3–Ta2O5 system was prepared using the melt‐quench technique. The transparent SrBi2Ta2O9 (SBT) glass‐ceramic nanocomposites were derived from this glass using a controlled crystallization process. The formation of SBT crystal phase, size, and morphology with increase in heat‐treatment time was examined using X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and fourier transform infrared transmission spectroscopy. Vicker's hardness study indicates marked improvement of hardness in the glass‐ceramics compared to precursor glass. The photoluminescence spectra of Eu3+ ions exhibit emission transitions of 5D0→7Fj (j = 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4) and its excitation spectra show an intense absorption band at 467 nm. These spectra reveal that the Eu3+ ions are gradually entering into the SBT nanocrystals present in the glass‐ceramics. This study indicates that the incorporation of Eu3+ ions into SBT crystal lattice enhances the photoluminescence performance of the glass‐ceramics by two‐fold. It is believed that this work would generate significant impact in the exploration of SBT glass‐ceramic nanocomposites.
Effect of the Synthesis Route on the Microstructure and the Dielectric Behavior of CaCu3Ti4O12 Ceramics
Authors: de la Rubia Miguel A. , Leret Pilar , de Frutos Jose , Fernández José F.
Published: March 2012

CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) was prepared by a conventional synthesis (CS) and through reaction sintering, in which synthesis and sintering of the material take place in one single step. The microstructure and the dielectric properties of CCTO have been studied by XRD, FE‐SEM, EDS, AFM, and impedance spectroscopy to correlate structure, microstructure, and electrical properties. Samples prepared by reactive sintering show very similar dielectric behavior to those prepared by CS. Therefore, it is possible to prepare CCTO by means of a single‐step processing method.
In Situ Synchrotron Microtomography Reveals Multiple Reaction Pathways During Soda‐Lime Glass Synthesis
Authors: Gouillart Emmanuelle , Toplis Michael J. , Grynberg Julien , Chopinet Marie‐Hélène , Sondergard Elin , Salvo Luc , Suéry Michel , Di Michiel Marco , Varoquaux Gael
Published: March 2012

Ultrafast synchrotron microtomography has been used to study in situ and in real time the initial stages of silicate glass melt formation from crystalline granular raw materials. Significant and unexpected rearrangements of grains occur below the nominal eutectic temperature, and several drastically different solid‐state reactions are observed to take place at different types of intergranular contacts. These reactions have a profound influence on the formation and composition of the liquids produced, and control the formation of heterogeneities.
The gonadotropin‐releasing hormone antagonist protocol – the protocol of choice for the polycystic ovary syndrome patient undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation
Authors: KOL SHAHAR , HOMBURG ROY , ALSBJERG BIRGIT , HUMAIDAN PETER
Published: March 2012

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients are prone to develop ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), a condition which can be minimized or completely eliminated by the use of a gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) trigger. In this commentary paper, we maintain that the gonadotropin‐releasing hormone antagonist protocol should be the protocol of choice for the PCOS patient undergoing ovarian stimulation with gonadotropins for in vitro fertilization. If an excessive ovarian response is encountered, the clinician will always have two options: either to trigger final oocyte maturation with a bolus of GnRHa and supplement the luteal phase with a small bolus of human chorionic gonadotropin in addition to the standard luteal phase support and transfer in the fresh cycle or, alternatively, to trigger with GnRHa and perform a total freeze, resulting in a complete elimination of OHSS and high ongoing pregnancy rates in the subsequent frozen–thawed transfer cycles.
Spinal curvature and characteristics of postural change in pregnant women
Authors: OKANISHI NATSUKO , KITO NOBUHIRO , AKIYAMA MITOSHI , YAMAMOTO MASAKO
Published: March 2012

Objective. Pregnant women often report complaints due to physiological and postural changes. Postural changes during pregnancy may cause low back pain and pelvic girdle pain. This study aimed to compare the characteristics of postural changes in pregnant compared with non‐pregnant women. Design. Prospective case–control study. Setting. Pregnancy care center. Population. Fifteen women at 17–34 weeks pregnancy comprised the study group, while 10 non‐pregnant female volunteers comprised the control group. Methods. Standing posture was evaluated in the sagittal plane with static digital pictures. Two angles were measured by image analysis software: (1) between the trunk and pelvis; and (2) between the trunk and lower extremity. Spinal curvature was measured with Spinal Mouse® to calculate the means of sacral inclination, thoracic and lumbar curvature and inclination. Main outcome measures. The principal components were calculated until eigenvalues surpassed 1. Results. Three distinct factors with eigenvalues of 1.00–2.49 were identified, consistent with lumbosacral spinal curvature and inclination, thoracic spine curvature, and inclination of the body. These factors accounted for 77.2% of the total variance in posture variables. Eleven pregnant women showed postural characteristics of lumbar kyphosis and sacral posterior inclination. Body inclination showed a variety of patterns compared with those in healthy women. Conclusions. Spinal curvature demonstrated a tendency for lumbar kyphosis in pregnant women. Pregnancy may cause changes in spinal curvature and posture, which may in turn lead to relevant symptoms. Our data provide a basis for investigating the effects of spinal curvature and postural changes on symptoms during pregnancy.
Reliability and failure modes of internal conical dental implant connections
Authors: Freitas‐Júnior Amilcar C. , Almeida Erika O. , Bonfante Estevam A. , Silva Nelson R.F.A. , Coelho Paulo G.
Published: March 2012

Objective

Biological and mechanical implant‐abutment connection complications and failures are still present in clinical practice, frequently compromising oral function. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability and failure modes of anterior single‐unit restorations in internal conical interface (ICI) implants using step‐stress accelerated life testing (SSALT).

Materials and methods

Forty‐two ICI implants were distributed in two groups (n = 21 each): group AT–OsseoSpeed™ TX (Astra Tech, Waltham, MA, USA); group SV–Duocon System Line, Morse Taper (Signo Vinces Ltda., Campo Largo, PR, Brazil). The corresponding abutments were screwed to the implants and standardized maxillary central incisor metal crowns were cemented and subjected to SSALT in water. Use‐level probability Weibull curves and reliability for a mission of 50,000 cycles at 200 N were calculated. Differences between groups were assessed by Kruskal–Wallis along with Bonferroni's post‐hoc tests. Polarized‐light and scanning electron microscopes were used for failure analyses.

Results

The Beta (β) value derived from use level probability Weibull calculation was 1.62 (1.01–2.58) for group AT and 2.56 (1.76–3.74) for group SV, indicating that fatigue was an accelerating factor for failure of both groups. The reliability for group AT was 0.95 and for group SV was 0.88. Kruskal–Wallis along with Bonferroni's post‐hoc tests showed no significant difference between the groups tested (P > 0.27). In all specimens of both groups, the chief failure mode was abutment fracture at the conical joint region and screw fracture at neck's region.

Conclusions

Reliability was not different between investigated ICI connections supporting maxillary incisor crowns. Failure modes were similar.
A nationwide population‐based study on the association between chronic periodontitis and erectile dysfunction
Authors: Keller Joseph J. , Chung Shiu‐Dong , Lin Herng‐Ching
Published: March 2012

Aim

To explore the association between chronic periodontitis (CP) and erectile dysfunction (ED) by using a nationwide, population‐based dataset with a retrospective case‐control design in Taiwan.

Material and Methods

We identified 32,856 patients with ED as cases and randomly selected 162,480 patients as controls. Conditional logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the association between ED and having been previously diagnosed with CP.

Results

Of the sampled patients 24,294 (12.3%) had been diagnosed with CP prior to the index date; this included 8825 cases (26.9% of the patients with ED) and 15,469 controls (9.4% of the comparison cohort). After adjusting for patient monthly income, age, geographic location, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia, coronary heart disease, obesity, and alcohol abuse/alcohol dependence syndrome, patients with ED were more likely to have been diagnosed with CP prior to the index date than controls (OR = 3.35, 95% CI = 3.25–3.45, p < 0.001). In addition, the association was much stronger among the population aged less than 30 years (OR = 4.54, 95% CI = 3.81–5.40) and the group aged over than 69 years (OR = 4.84, 95% CI = 4.35–5.39).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated an association between ED and having been previously diagnosed with CP.
Contact allergy to metals in adolescents. Nickel release from metal accessories 7 years after the implementation of the EU Nickel Directive in Poland
Authors: Krecisz Beata , Chomiczewska Dorota , Palczynski Cezary , Kiec‐Swierczynska Marta
Published: March 2012

Background. Contact allergy among adolescents is an important issue.

Objectives. To assess the prevalence of contact allergy to metals in adolescents aged 15 years and nickel release from metal accessories that are in direct contact with the skin.

Methods. Three hundred and nine females and 219 males, all 15 years old, from randomly selected secondary schools were examined and patch tested with nickel sulfate, cobalt chloride, palladium chloride, and potassium dichromate. Three hundred and ninety‐nine metal accessories were tested with the dimethylglyoxime (DMG) test.

Results.‘Metal dermatitis' was reported by 19.4% of females and 0.5% of males. Positive patch test reactions were found in 8.5% of the adolescents (12.9% in females; 2.3% in males), namely to: nickel (12.3% of females; 1.4% of males); palladium (5.2% of females; 0.5% of males); cobalt (3.2% of females; 1.4% of males); and chromium (1.3% of females; 0.9% of males). Allergic contact dermatitis caused by metals was diagnosed in 9.7% of females and in 0.5% of males. Of the metal items, 26.1% gave positive DMG test results: 10.0% of earrings, 11.4% of snaps, and 56.2% of belt buckles.

Conclusions. Despite the implementation of the Nickel Directive in Poland, nickel still remains an important causal factor for allergic contact dermatitis. Numerous metal accessories do not comply with the Directive.
Comparing the seasonal survival of resident and migratory oystercatchers: carry‐over effects of habitat quality and weather conditions
Authors: Duriez Olivier , Ens Bruno J. , Choquet Rémi , Pradel Roger , Klaassen Marcel
Published: March 2012

Events happening in one season can affect life‐history traits at (the) subsequent season(s) by carry‐over effects. Wintering conditions are known to affect breeding success, but few studies have investigated carry‐over effects on survival. The Eurasian oystercatcherHaematopus ostralegusis a coastal wader with sedentary populations at temperate sites and migratory populations in northern breeding grounds of Europe. We pooled continental European ringing‐recovery datasets from 1975 to 2000 to estimate winter and summer survival rates of migrant and resident populations and to investigate long‐term effects of winter habitat changes. During mild climatic periods, adults of both migratory and resident populations exhibited survival rates 2% lower in summer than in winter. Severe winters reduced survival rates (down to 25% reduction) and were often followed by a decline in survival during the following summer, via short‐term carry‐over effects. Habitat changes in the Dutch wintering grounds caused a reduction in food stocks, leading to reduced survival rates, particularly in young birds. Therefore, wintering habitat changes resulted in long‐term (>10 years) 8.7 and 9.4% decrease in adult annual survival of migrant and resident populations respectively. Studying the impact of carry‐over effects is crucial for understanding the life history of migratory birds and the development of conservation measures.
Immunogenicity Study of Plasmid DNA Encoding Mouse Cysteine‐Rich Secretory Protein‐1 (mCRISP1) as a Contraceptive Vaccine
Authors: Luo Jin , Yang Jing , Cheng Yan , Li Wei , Yin Tai‐Lang , Xu Wang‐Ming , Zou Yu‐Jie
Published: March 2012

Problem

To examine the immunocontraceptive properties of the plasmid pcDNA‐mCRISP1 and compare them to the corresponding recombinant mCRISP1 (r‐mCRISP1).

Method of study

RT‐PCR and indirect immunofluorescence were performed to observe the mCRISP1 protein expression in COS‐7 cells. Three groups of mice received three injections of r‐mCRISP1, pcDNA‐mCRISP1 or pcDNA vector, respectively. ELISA and Western blot were used to examine the immune responses and immunoreactivity of antisera. Sperm‐egg penetration assay was performed to examine the effect of anti‐mCRISP1 antibodies in vitro fertilization of mouse oocytes. Fertility and mean litter size were analysed by natural mating. Histological analysis was carried out to look for potential immunopathologic effects of the antibodies.

Results

COS‐7 cells transfected with pcDNA‐mCRISP1 present the expression of mCRISP1. Both r‐mCRISP1 and pcDNA‐mCRISP1 raised an immune response against r‐mCRISP1 protein and native CRISP1 in mouse sperm. The titres of anti‐mCRISP1 antibodies from DNA immunized mice were significantly lower than that of r‐mCRISP1 immunized mice, but it lasted relatively longer. Male and female pcDNA‐mCRISP1 injected animals presented a statistically significant reduction in their fertility with no signs of immunopathologic effects.

Conclusion

These studies demonstrated the feasibility of generating an immune response to mCRISP1 protein by DNA vaccine and pcDNA‐mCRISP1 plasmid causing significant anti‐fertility potential.
The effect of mouthrinses on oral malodor: a systematic review
Authors: Blom T , Slot DE , Quirynen M , Van der Weijden GA
Published: March 2012

To cite this article:   Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 209–222  DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2012.00546.x  Blom T, Slot DE, Quirynen M, Van der Weijden GA. The effect of mouthrinses on oral malodor: a systematic review.

Abstract:  Objective: The objective of this study is to systematically review the literature regarding the impact of mouthrinses on oral malodor and present evidence for the treatment effects of mouthrinses on oral malodor. Material and methods: PubMed‐MEDLINE, the Cochrane‐CENTRAL and EMBASE were searched through February 10, 2012 to identify appropriate studies. Volatile sulphur compound measurements, organoleptic measurements and tongue coating were selected as outcome variables. Search results: The independent screenings of 333 unique titles and paper abstracts revealed 12 publications (12 experiments) that met the eligibility criteria. Means and standard deviations were extracted. The results were separated into short‐term (<3 weeks) and longer‐term (≥3 weeks) studies. Conclusion: In this review, nearly all mouthwashes with active ingredients had beneficial effects in reducing oral malodor in both short‐ and longer‐term studies. The most compelling evidence was provided for chlorhexidine mouthwashes, and those that contained a combination of cetyl pyridinum chloride and zinc provided the best evidence profile on oral malodor. Little data with respect to tongue coating were available, and none of the studies showed a beneficial effect for this parameter.
Ramsay Hunt syndrome
Authors: Wagner Gunnar , Klinge Harald , Sachse Michael Max
Published: March 2012

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is defined as herpes zoster oticus associated with an acute peripheral facial nerve paresis and quite often with other cranial nerve lesions. The combination of motor, sensory and autonomic involvement leads to a variety of neurological damage patterns, i. e. facial muscle paresis, hearing and balance disorders, sensory problems and disturbances of taste as well as lacrimal and nasal secretion. Additional variability of the clinical picture of Ramsay Hunt syndrome is produced by varying patterns of skin involvement explained by individual anastomoses between cranial and cervical nerves. Knowledge of these findings and an early diagnosis of Ramsay Hunt syndrome are important as prognosis of cranial nerve damage depends on the time at which acyclovir‐ corticosteroid therapy is started.
Supplementary feeding in the maternity ward shortens the duration of breast feeding
Authors: Blomquist HK , Jonsbo F. , Serenius F. , Persson LÅ
Published: March 2012

In a prospective study, feeding routines of a maternity unit and the subsequent feeding patterns of 521 newborns were analysed. During the stay in the maternity unit, 69% of newborns were exclusively breast fed and 1% received only donor's milk from the milk bank and/or formula. Nine percent received their mothers' milk by bottle at least once and 21% received one or more supplementary feedings with donor's milk from the milk bank. One‐quarter of the children received supplementary feeds on the third day of life, the indications for this being birth weight less than 3.0 kg, maternal diabetes or gestational diabetes, “insufficient amounts” of milk or fussiness. At three months, 65% were being exclusively breast fed and 15% partially breast fed. In a multiple logistic regression analysis, the potential determinants (neonatal feeding, maternal characteristics, characteristics of the delivery and the child) for the duration of breast feeding were included. The adjusted relative risk (estimated as odds ratios, OR) of not being breast fed at three months was associated with maternal age (< 25 years, OR 4.2), maternal smoking (OR 4.0), neonatal feeding (supplements given, OR 3.9) and initial weight loss (10% or more, OR 2.8). Thus the administration of supplementary donor's milk or formula during the early neonatal period was associated with an increased risk of a short duration for breast feeding, even after adjustment for a number of potential confounders.
Are fathers prepared to encourage their partners to breast feed? A study about fathers' knowledge of breast feeding
Authors: Giugliani ERJ , Bronner Y. , Caiaffa WT , Vogelhut J. , Witter FR , Perman JA
Published: March 2012

In order to study fathers' knowledge of breast feeding and its relationship with paternal factors, fathers of 92 breast feeding and 89 non‐breast feeding newborns were compared. Paternal factors included previous children and the way they were fed, participation in prenatal care, attendance at prenatal classes, breast feeding information provided by health professionals, use of reading materials and interest in learning more about the subject. The results indicated that fathers had poor knowledge about breast feeding, especially those whose children were being bottle fed. After adjustments for confounders, fathers who had previous breast‐fed child(ren), had attended prenatal classes and who received information about breast feeding from medical personnel had a significantly higher chance of having a better knowledge of breast feeding. It seems that fathers need to be better prepared to assume their new role as breast feeding supporters. Prenatal care was shown to be a good opportunity to improve fathers' knowledge of breast feeding.
Inhalation of racemic adrenaline in the treatment of mild and moderately severe croup. Clinical symptom score and oxygen saturation measurements for evaluation of treatment effects
Authors: Kristjánsson S. , Berg‐Kelly K. , Winsö E.
Published: March 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the immediate effect of inhaling racemic adrenaline to treat croup and to evaluate a scoring system. Two groups were investigated. One group inhaled a racemic adrenaline solution and the other group received the same solution with no racemic adrenaline. The study was double‐blinded and placebo‐controlled. Fifty‐four children (0.4–10.8 years) with mild to moderately severe croup were included in the study after clinical evaluation. The clinical score was useful when evaluating the treatment effects in mild to moderately severe croup and may be used as a quality assurance tool when treatment protocols are re‐evaluated. Oxygen saturation before and after treatment did not change significantly in either group and therefore its measurement did not provide additional information on the effect of treatment. In both groups, a significant improvement in total mean clinical scores was seen 30 min after inhalation, compared with before inhalation (p < 0.001). However, racemic adrenaline was significantly better than placebo in terms of improvement in total clinical score, inspiratory stridor, retractions and air entry, and should therefore be used as first‐line treatment.
Lung function in adolescents with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency
Authors: Sveger T. , Piitulainen E. , Arborelius M.
Published: March 2012

Children with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency, screened at birth, were followed prospectively. At 16 years of age, 150 adolescents (103 PiZ, 1 PiZ‐, 1 PiS‐, 45 PiSZ) were interviewed using a standardized questionnaire and asked to participate in an extensive lung function study including part or all of the following tests: FVC, FEV1 before and 15 min after four inhaled doses of salbutamol, TLC, RV and FRC. Fifty age‐, sex‐ and height‐matched adolescents participated as controls. No significant differences in age, height or weight were found between the PiZ, PiSZ and control groups. No significant differences were found in respiratory symptoms, parental smoking history or the smoking habits of PiZ, PiSZ and control subjects. Asthma occurred in 10.7% of PiZ, 6.5% of PiSZ and 4% of control adolescents (p = 0.33). Only 3 of 100 PiZ and 1 of 45 PiSZ adolescents were smokers. No significant contribution of α1‐antitrypsin Pi‐type was found to explain the variation in lung function variables studied. We conclude that children with α1‐antitrypsin deficiency have a favourable prognosis and normal lung development up to 16 years of age. Anti‐smoking advice was found to be reasonably successful; only 3% of those answering the questionnaire had started to smoke.
Gallbladder hypocontractility in infantile colic
Authors: Lehtonen L. , Svedström E. , Korvenranta H.
Published: March 2012

We evaluated gallbladder contractility in 58 colicky infants and 57 age‐matched controls. Gallbladder size was measured before and 1 h after feeding and the contraction index of the gallbladder was calculated. The results showed decreased contractility of the gallbladder in colicky infants: mean contraction index in colicky infants was 56% (95% confidence interval, 49–63%) and in controls 67% (61–73%). No difference was found in the fasting size of the gallbladder. Postprandial contraction was decreased in colicky infants examined in the evening (n = 14) compared with those examined in the morning (n = 44). Decreased contraction of the gallbladder was found in those colicky infants who presented colicky cry compared with colicky infants without symptoms at the time of examination. No structural abnormalities were found in the general abdominal survey. In conclusion, infants with colic have hypocontractility of the gallbladder. This indicates abnormal biliary tract physiology in association with infantile colic.
A prospective study of the adverse effects of midazolam on withdrawal in critically ill children
Authors: Hughes J. , Gill A. , Leach HJ , Nunn AJ , Billingham I. , Ratcliffe J. , Thornington R. , Choonara I.
Published: March 2012

Fifty‐three critically ill infants and children received midazolam as sedation in a regional intensive care unit. Assessment of the level of sedation was carried out at regular intervals on withdrawal of midazolam. Forty‐nine patients were fully alert within 4 h of midazolam being stopped. Four patients took from 6 h to 1 week to become fully alert. Four patients had abnormal behaviour highly suggestive of midazolam withdrawal. The onset of abnormal behaviour was within 12 h of discontinuation of midazolam. The duration of the abnormal behaviour ranged from 3 h to 1 week. One child had a paradoxical reaction to midazolam. The overall incidence of adverse effects to midazolam in the patients studied was 17%. No adverse effects were observed in infants; all adverse effects were observed in children. We have shown that it is possible to prospectively study the toxicity of sedatives in critically ill infants and children.
Successful treatment with cyclosporin A in a child with acquired pure amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Peng C‐T , Kao L‐Y , Tsai C‐H
Published: March 2012

Idiopathic acquired pure amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenic purpura (APATP) in young patients (non‐neonates) is a rare disorder with a variable clinical course. Cure is unusual. A 13.5‐year‐old boy with idiopathic APATP was treated with cyclosporin A. Apparently effective, the treatment resulted in the reappearance of marrow megakaryocytes and normalization of platelet count.
Serum magnesium and protein concentrations during the first five years of insulin‐dependent diabetes in children
Authors: Tuvemo T. , Ewald U. , Kobbah M. , Proos LA
Published: March 2012

Thirty‐four children were followed up prospectively for 5 years from the onset of diabetes regarding serum magnesium, zinc and some proteins. Serum magnesium decreased to significantly lower values (0.76 ± 0.05 mmol l−1) than those in matched controls after 2 and 5 years, with the lowest mean values in diabetic girls. Serum zinc concentration was higher in the diabetic group than in the control children, and again the diabetic girls differed most from the controls. Serum prealbumin was significantly lower in the diabetic patients after 2 and 5 years than in the controls. Serum albumin was also slightly reduced in the diabetic patients, while orosomucoid was normal. These data indicate chronic magnesium deficiency and insufficient liver synthesis of certain serum proteins in diabetic children.
Serum lipoproteins and apolipoproteins in children during the first five years of diabetes
Authors: Kobbah M. , Proos L. , Tuvemo T. , Vessby B.
Published: March 2012

Serum lipoproteins and apolipoproteins were followed in 34 children during a period of 5 years from the onset of diabetes. The group did not differ in these respects from a healthy control group after 5 years of disease. The variation in serum triglycerides and very‐low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL) triglycerides was more pronounced, some patients having high values. Serum triglycerides and VLDL lipids were significantly correlated to subcutaneous fat, measured as triceps and subscapular skinfolds. None of the patients had albuminuria, so lipid levels could not be related to renal albumin excretion. There was no significant correlation between any serum lipid and haemoglobin Alc.
Psychomotor development at 10 months as related to neonatal health status: The Stockholm Neonatal Project
Authors: Gerner EM , Katz‐Salamon M. , Hesser U. , Söderman E. , Forssberg H.
Published: March 2012

The psychomotor development of 171 preterm very‐low‐birthweight (VLBW) infants (birthweight ≤1500 g) at 10 months of corrected age was assessed by the Griffiths' Mental Developmental Scale. The developmental score was related to the prenatal and obstetric risk factors and to the neonatal health status of each infant. These results, in turn, were compared to findings for a reference group of full‐term infants. This analysis revealed that prolonged ventilator treatment, patent ductus arteriosus, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, brain haemorrhage with ventricle dilatation, white matter lesions, low birthweight and low gestational age influenced psychomotor development in an unfavourable manner. Multiple regression analysis confirmed most of these correlations. Preterm birth per se (when children with risk factors were excluded) in general had no significant effect on psychomotor development. However, the early development of preterm infants with several neonatal risk factors was adversely affected.
Pregnancy and HIV infection in Europe
Authors: Newell M‐L , Thorne C.
Published: March 2012

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) seroprevalence among pregnant women varies between and within countries and is generally higher in urban than in rural areas. In the European Collaborative Study, heterosexual transmission is increasing and most women are asymptomatic, although the overall mean CD4 count is declining over time. There seems to be little evidence of an increased risk of pregnancy or delivery complications in HIV‐infected pregnancies. Most studies have found no increase in adverse pregnancy outcomes, although further research is needed. Prospective studies suggest that pregnancy does not promote accelerated disease progression in asymptomatic women. Despite earlier concerns, three recent studies suggest that pregnancy is not associated with deterioration of immunocompetence. The increasing number of infected pregnant women requires adequate planning for the future care of their children.
Human immunodeficiency virus‐1 infection in neonates: correlation of plasma and cellular viremia and clinical outcome
Authors: Rouzioux C. , Burgard M. , Chaix M‐L , Delamare C. , Ivanoff S. , Bouiller B. , Cateloy S. , Allemon M‐C , Broyart C. , Ciraru N. , Floch C. , Lelorier P. , Lachassine E. , Mazy F. , Narcy P. , Saillant J. , Salomon JL , Seaume H. , Talon P. , Mayaux M‐J , Blanche S. ,   French Pediatric Cohort Study Group
Published: March 2012

Among human immunodeficiency virus‐1 (HIV‐1) vertically infected children, two patterns of disease progression have been observed: about 25% develop a severe immunodeficiency within the first 2 years of life; the rest experience a slower progression, like adults. We have assessed infectious viral burden in infected neonates through the French National Prospective Study. Plasma and cell‐associated viremia were assayed by endpoint‐dilution cultures in samples from 46 infants followed prospectively from birth. Plasma and cell‐associated viral burden were found to be significantly higher in rapid progressing infants than in non‐progressing infants in the first months of life: before the age of 2 months, between 2 and 4 months of age and by the age of 6 months. Moreover, among the non‐progressing children, the infectious viral burden before the age of 4 months was predictive of the viral burden measured after the age of 12 months. In conclusion, this work demonstrates that infectious viral load is a reliable predictive marker for rapid progression to AIDS in infants and could be useful for initiating antiretroviral therapy.
Antiretroviral resistance and HIV vertical transmission
Authors: McIntosh K.
Published: March 2012

The author reviews the current and potential problem of antiviral resistance in the prevention of vertical transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from mother to child. The paper addresses five questions: (i) How often does antiretroviral resistance occur? While this does not appear to be an important problem now, low levels of resistance are probably common, and resistance can be expected to increase in frequency; (ii) Does resistance influence the rate of vertical transmission? The answer is likely to be yes if the drug in question is used in an effort to prevent or reduce transmission; (iii) What are the consequences for the mother? These are certainly not good and might, if the drug in question is important for the mother's health, be bad; (iv) What are the consequences for the baby? The answer to this question is similar, with the additional concern that resistance might make preventive measures less effective and thus increase the chance of transmission; (v) What can be done about it? Combination treatment may be effective in minimizing the development of resistance. As with other antimicrobials, selective and rational use of drugs for specific purposes will minimize the problem. The conclusion of the discussion is that resistance is likely to emerge as an important problem over time and should be addressed in strategies for prevention.
Immunological and virological markers of disease progression in HIV‐infected children
Authors: Muñoz‐Fernández MA , Navarro J. , Obregón E. , Arias RA , Gurbindo MD , Sampelayo TH , Fernández‐Cruz E.
Published: March 2012

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), virus culture and antigen detection assays are useful for early detection of vertically transmitted human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1) infection in infants under 12 months of age. Sixty‐four children born to HIV‐1‐seropositive mothers were evaluated. Thirteen children (20.3%) were repeatedly positive by PCR analysis. There was 100% concordance between the results obtained from PCR and culture assays. Measurement of p24 antigen in serum was, in contrast, a less sensitive marker of HIV infection: only 5/13 infants had positive p24 antigen results. We have investigated the relationship among the HIV‐1 biological phenotype, replicative capacity of viral isolates, HIV RNA copy number in plasma, p24 antigenaemia, CD4 T lymphocyte counts and the clinical status in 13 HIV‐infected infants. Six out of 13 HIV‐1 isolates from these patients were classified as rapid/high and seven as slow/low. We have found a significantly positive correlation between the replication rate of HIV isolates and their capacity to induce syncytia in vitro. The HIV‐1 isolates with rapid/high and syncytium‐inducing phenotype, and isolates with slow/low and non‐syncytium‐inducing phenotype were obtained from infants who had HIV‐1 RNA copy number ml−1 plasma values of 27654–83520 and 1342–34321, respectively. Levels of HIV‐1 RNA were measured in sequential plasma samples from three HIV‐infected infants and their biological properties determined in vitro. Our findings indicate that infants who carried viruses with more cytophatic biological phenotype and who had higher viral RNA copy numbers in blood were more likely to have lower CD4+ T cell counts and more likely to develop full‐blown AIDS.