bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of food bolus location on jaw movement smoothness and masticatory efficiency
Authors: MOLENAAR W. N. B. , GEZELLE MEERBURG P. J. , LURASCHI J. , WHITTLE T. , SCHIMMEL M. , LOBBEZOO F. , PECK C. C. , MURRAY G. M. , MINAMI I.
Published: May 2012

Summary  Masticatory efficiency in individuals with extensive tooth loss has been widely discussed. However, little is known about jaw movement smoothness during chewing and the effect of differences in food bolus location on movement smoothness and masticatory efficiency. The aim of this study was to determine whether experimental differences in food bolus location (anterior versus posterior) had an effect on masticatory efficiency and jaw movement smoothness. Jaw movement smoothness was evaluated by measuring jerk‐cost (calculated from acceleration) with an accelerometer that was attached to the skin of the mentum of 10 asymptomatic subjects, and acceleration was recorded during chewing on two‐colour chewing gum, which was used to assessed masticatory efficiency. Chewing was performed under two conditions: posterior chewing (chewing on molars and premolars only) and anterior chewing (chewing on canine and first premolar teeth only). Jerk‐cost and masticatory efficiency (calculated as the ratio of unmixed azure colour to the total area of gum, the unmixed fraction) were compared between anterior and posterior chewing with the Wilcoxon signed rank test (two‐tailed). Subjects chewed significantly less efficiently during anterior chewing than during posterior chewing (P = 0·0051). There was no significant difference in jerk‐cost between anterior and posterior conditions in the opening phase (P = 0·25), or closing phase (P = 0·42). This is the first characterisation of the effect of food bolus location on jaw movement smoothness at the same time as recording masticatory efficiency. The data suggest that anterior chewing decreases masticatory efficiency, but does not influence jerk‐cost.
De novo DNA methylation activity of METHYLTRANSFERASE 1 (MET1) partially restores body methylation in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Zubko Elena , Gentry Matt , Kunova Andrea , Meyer Peter
Published: May 2012

Arabidopsis METHYLTRANSFERASE 1 (MET1) controls faithful maintenance of cytosine methylation at CG sites in repetitive regions and central body regions of active genes. If MET1 is removed in a mutant background, CG methylation is lost and is only restored in specific heterochromatic regions that have maintained competence for re‐methylation due to the presence of small RNAs and the RNA‐directed DNA methylation pathway that controls de novo DNA methylation functions. We analysed re‐methylation at a locus that loses body methylation in an met1 mutant. We found that body methylation at this locus is at least partially restored when MET1 is re‐introduced into the met1 mutant background, either via genetic cross or DNA transfer. Re‐methylation is region‐specific but random with respect to individual CG targets, does not require passage through the germline, and its efficiency appears to be influenced by transcription. This suggests that, at least at some loci, MET1 has de novo methylation activity that can restore lost body methylation patterns. We propose that this activity helps to stabilize body methylation patterns, and the random target site selection probably also enhances the variability of body methylation patterns.
Spatial and temporal foraging patterns of Queensland fruit fly, Bactrocera tryoni (Froggatt) (Diptera: Tephritidae), for protein and implications for management
Authors: Balagawi Solomon , Jackson Kevin , Hamacek Edward L , Clarke Anthony R
Published: May 2012

Fruit flies require protein for reproductive development and actively feed upon protein sources in the field. Liquid protein baits mixed with insecticide are used routinely to manage pest fruit flies, such as Bactrocera tryoni (Froggatt). However, there are still some gaps in the underpinning science required to improve the efficacy of bait spray technology. The spatial and temporal foraging behaviour of B. tryoni in response to protein was investigated in the field. A series of linked trials using either wild flies in the open field or laboratory‐reared flies in field cages and a netted orchard were undertaken using nectarines and guavas. Key questions investigated were the fly's response to protein relative to: height of protein within the canopy, fruiting status of the tree, time of day, season and size of the experimental arena. Canopy height had a significant response on B. tryoni foraging, with more flies foraging on protein in the mid to upper canopy. Fruiting status also had a significant effect on foraging, with most flies responding to protein when applied to fruiting hosts. B. tryoni demonstrated a repeatable diurnal response pattern to protein, with the peak response being between 12:00–16:00 h. Season showed significant but unpredictable effects on fruit fly response to protein in the subtropical environment where the work was undertaken. Relative humidity, but not temperature or rainfall, was positively correlated with protein response. The number of B. tryoni responding to protein decreased dramatically as the spatial scale increased from field cage through to the open field. Based on these results, it is recommend that, to be most effective, protein bait sprays should be applied to the mid to upper canopies of fruiting hosts. Overall, the results show that the protein used, an industry standard, has very low attractancy to B. tryoni and that further work is urgently needed to develop more volatile protein baits.
Mental health nurses' perceptions of good work in an acute setting
Authors: Cleary Michelle , Horsfall Jan , O'Hara‐Aarons Maureen , Jackson Debra , Hunt Glenn E.
Published: May 2012

Frequently, research and conference papers explore difficult or problematic areas of practice that can inadvertently render daily nursing accomplishments invisible and create the perception of a discipline in crisis. In this qualitative study, we explore the views of registered nurses about achievements in the workplace and good nursing work in an acute inpatient mental health setting in Sydney, Australia. Mental health nurses were asked a series of questions about their experiences and understanding of what constitutes good nursing work as well as their sense of optimism about their work. A total of 40 structured face‐to‐face interviews were completed. Among the responses to questions about achievements and good nursing practice, five broad themes were identified: i) teamwork; (ii) interpersonal interactions with patients; (iii) providing practical and holistic support to patients; (iv) patients' mental health improvements; and (v) optimism–pessimism continuum. Findings contribute to a discussion of good nursing work in acute mental health settings, as well as self‐perceptions of optimism and hopefulness, which are important contributors to positive, supportive health‐care settings and patient recovery.
Citation analysis of mental health nursing journals: How should we rank thee?
Authors: Hunt Glenn E. , Happell Brenda , Chan Sally W.‐C. , Cleary Michelle
Published: May 2012

The journal impact factor (JIF), and how best to rate the performance of a journal and the articles they contain, are areas of great debate. The aim of this paper was to assess various ranking methods of journal quality for mental health nursing journals, and to list the top 10 articles that have received the most number of citations to date. Seven mental health nursing journals were chosen for the analysis of citations they received in 2010, as well as their current impact factors from two sources, and other data for ranking purposes. There was very little difference in the top four mental health nursing journals and their overall rankings when combining various bibliometric indicators. That said, the International Journal of Mental Health Nursing is currently the highest ranked mental health nursing journal based on JIF, but publishes fewer articles per year compared to other journals. Overall, very few articles received 50 or more citations. This study shows that researchers need to consider more than one ranking method when deciding where to send or publish their research.
A three‐dimensional stress field solution for pointed and sharply radiused V‐notches in plates of finite thickness
Authors: LAZZARIN P. , ZAPPALORTO M.
Published: May 2012

By making use of the generalized plane strain hypothesis, an approximate stress field theory has been developed according to which the three‐dimensional governing equations lead to a system where a bi‐harmonic equation and a harmonic equation should be simultaneously satisfied. The former provides the solution of the corresponding plane notch problem, and the latter provides the solution of the corresponding out‐of‐plane shear notch problem. The system can be applied not only to pointed three‐dimensional V‐notches but also to sharply radiused V‐notches characterized by a notch tip radius small enough. Limits and degree of accuracy of the analytical frame are discussed comparing theoretical results and numerical data from FE models.
An Investigation of the Relationships between Affective Organisational Commitment and National Differences in Positivity and Life Satisfaction
Authors: Hausmann Natascha , Mueller Karsten , Hattrup Kate , Spiess Sven‐Oliver
Published: May 2012

This research examined relationships between nation‐level differences in cultural positivity and life satisfaction, and individual affective organisational commitment among employees in a large multinational sample consisting of 30 nations. Hierarchical Linear Modeling was used to take into account the multilevel structure of the data. As hypothesised, cultural positivity and life satisfaction significantly predicted affective organisational commitment, after controlling for job satisfaction and job role (blue‐collar workers, white‐collar workers, or management) at the individual level, as well as acquiescence, human development and classical value dimensions at the national level. Both life satisfaction and cultural positivity showed incremental relationships with affective organisational commitment when tested together in the same model. By investigating the importance of affective variables as a predictor of job attitudes, this research contributes to our knowledge of cultural universals and particulars in human behavior (cf. Kagitcibasi & Poortinga, 2000; Triandis, 1994). From a managerial point of view, cultural differences in affectivity appear to require attention when interpreting the results of organisational commitment measures administered in multinational contexts.
Low testosterone levels are related to poor prognosis factors in men with prostate cancer prior to treatment
Authors: García‐Cruz Eduardo , Piqueras Marta , Huguet Jorge , Peri Lluis , Izquierdo Laura , Musquera Mireia , Franco Agustin , Alvarez‐Vijande Ricardo , Ribal Maria Jose , Alcaraz Antonio
Published: May 2012

Study Type – Prognosis (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Prostate growth is ruled by testosterone. Nevertheless, the paradigm that high testosterone levels induce prostate cancer development or lead to a poor prognosis in prostate cancer is not supported by evidence. A growing number of studies suggest that, on the contrary, low testosterone levels are related to poor prognosis features in prostate cancer such as higher prostate‐specific antigen or higher Gleason score.

Our experience shows that testosterone levels are related to risk of progression of prostate cancer – those men with lower testosterone levels are at higher risk of progression of their prostate cancer after treatment delivery.

OBJECTIVES

Low testosterone levels have been related to a higher diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa). Hormonal levels have been related to poor prognosis factors in men with PCa, mainly after radical prostatectomy.

Our aim was to determine the relationship between hormonal levels and PCa prognosis factors in men with PCa prior to the onset of treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We prospectively analysed 137 males diagnosed in our centre with PCa with 5+5 core prostate biopsies from February 2007 to December 2009.

As part of our clinical protocol, we performed hormonal determination (testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin) following International Society of Andrology, International Society for the Study of the Aging Male and European Association of Urology recommendations.

Free testosterone and bioavailable testosterone were calculated using Vermeulen's formula.

Age, prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), free to total PSA, PSA density, number of previous biopsies, digital rectal examination staging, Gleason score, percentage of tumour in the biopsy sample, bilaterality of the tumour and risk of progression group were prospectively recorded.

RESULTS

Higher testosterone levels were related to lower digital rectal examination staging (P= 0.02) and lower PSA level (P= 0.05). Higher testosterone was not related to lower Gleason score (P= 0.08).

Testosterone was inversely related to PCa bilaterality (P < 0.01) and percentage of tumour in the biopsy (P < 0.01).

High testosterone levels were found in patients allocated to the low risk of progression group and inversely (P= 0.03).

In multivariate analysis, higher age and lower testosterone were related to higher D'Amico risk of progression.

CONCLUSION

Patients with PCa and lower testosterone levels have poor prognosis factors and higher tumour burden before treatment onset. These findings reinforce the idea that low testosterone levels pretreatment are related to a poor prognosis in PCa.
HNF1B deletions in patients with young‐onset diabetes but no known renal disease
Authors: Edghill E. L. , Stals K. , Oram R. A. , Shepherd M. H. , Hattersley A. T. , Ellard S.
Published: May 2012

Diabet. Med. 30, 114–117 (2013)

Aims  Hepatocyte nuclear factor 1β (HNF1B) mutations cause a syndrome of renal cysts and diabetes, with whole gene deletions accounting for approximately 50% of cases. The severity of the renal phenotype is variable, from enlarged cystic kidneys incompatible with life to normal renal development and function. We investigated the prevalence of HNF1B deletions in patients with diabetes but no known renal disease.

Methods  We tested 461 patients with familial diabetes diagnosed before 45 years, including 258 probands who met clinical criteria for maturity‐onset diabetes of the young (two generations affected and at least one family member diagnosed under 25 years). A fluorescent polymerase chain reaction assay was used to analyse two intragenic polymorphic HNF1B markers and identify heterozygous patients who therefore did not have whole gene deletions. Those patients homozygous for both markers were then tested for an HNF1B deletion using multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification.

Results  Heterozygous HNF1B intragenic polymorphisms were identified in 337/461 subjects. Multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification analysis showed an HNF1B gene deletion in three of the remaining 124 probands, all of whom met the criteria for maturity‐onset diabetes of the young. Testing of their relatives identified three additional deletion carriers and ultrasound scanning showed renal developmental abnormalities in three of these six patients.

Conclusions  We estimate that HNF1B mutations account for < 1% of cases of maturity‐onset diabetes of the young. Although HNF1B mutations are a rare cause of diabetes in the absence of known renal disease, a genetic diagnosis of renal cysts and diabetes syndrome is important as it raises the possibility of subclinical renal disease and the 50% risk of renal cysts and diabetes syndrome in the patient’s offspring.
Sleep duration and sleep quality are associated differently with alterations of glucose homeostasis
Authors: Byberg S. , Hansen A.‐L. S. , Christensen D. L. , Vistisen D. , Aadahl M. , Linneberg A. , Witte D. R.
Published: May 2012

Diabet. Med. 29, e354–e360 (2012)

Aims  Studies suggest that inadequate sleep duration and poor sleep quality increase the risk of impaired glucose regulation and diabetes. However, associations with specific markers of glucose homeostasis are less well explained. The objective of this study was to explore possible associations of sleep duration and sleep quality with markers of glucose homeostasis and glucose tolerance status in a healthy population‐based study sample.

Methods  The study comprised 771 participants from the Danish, population‐based cross‐sectional ‘Health2008’ study. Sleep duration and sleep quality were measured by self‐report. Markers of glucose homeostasis were derived from a 3‐point oral glucose tolerance test and included fasting plasma glucose, 2‐h plasma glucose, HbA1c, two measures of insulin sensitivity (the insulin sensitivity index0,120 and homeostasis model assessment of insulin sensitivity), the homeostasis model assessment of β‐cell function and glucose tolerance status. Associations of sleep duration and sleep quality with markers of glucose homeostasis and tolerance were analysed by multiple linear and logistic regression.

Results  A 1‐h increment in sleep duration was associated with a 0.3 mmol/mol (0.3%) decrement in HbA1c and a 25% reduction in the risk of having impaired glucose regulation. Further, a 1‐point increment in sleep quality was associated with a 2% increase in both the insulin sensitivity index0,120 and homeostasis model assessment of insulin sensitivity, as well as a 1% decrease in homeostasis model assessment of β‐cell function.

Conclusions  In the present study, shorter sleep duration was mainly associated with later alterations in glucose homeostasis, whereas poorer sleep quality was mainly associated with earlier alterations in glucose homeostasis. Thus, adopting healthy sleep habits may benefit glucose metabolism in healthy populations.
The Norm Theory of Capital Structure: International Evidence*
Authors: Lam Swee‐Sum , Zhang Weina , Lee Reginald Reagan Chua
Published: May 2012

Akerlof proposes that the norms of decision makers can bridge the gap between New Classical economic theories and conflicting empirical evidence. We apply his framework to cross‐country capital structure decision making and propose a norm theory of capital structure. Consistent with its predictions, we find that two principal components that represent the manager–subordinate relationship and the manager–environment relationship in a national culture are significantly and negatively related to the median leverage ratio at the country level. This study is among the first to provide a direct link between national culture and capital structure as made operational through managerial norms.
From Habituality to Change: Contribution of Activity Theory and Pragmatism to Practice Theories
Authors: MIETTINEN REIJO , PAAVOLA SAMI , POHJOLA PASI
Published: May 2012

The new social theories of practice have been inspired by Wittgenstein's late philosophy, phenomenology and more recent sociological theories. They regard embodied skills and routinized, mostly unconscious habits as a key foundation of human practice and knowledge. This position leads to an overstatement of the significance of the habitual dimension of practice. As several critics have suggested this approach omits the problems of transformative agency and change of practices. In turn classical practice theories, activity theory and pragmatism have analyzed the mechanisms of change. Pragmatism suggests that a crisis of a habit calls for reflection. Through working hypotheses and experimentation this leads to a transformation of a practice. Activity theory introduced the concept of remediation. A collective elaboration of shared mediational artefacts is needed to transform an activity.
Successful voluntary conservation of raptor nests under intensive forestry pressure in a boreal landscape
Authors: Santangeli A. , Lehtoranta H. , Laaksonen T.
Published: May 2012

Cost‐effective conservation strategies are needed because resources for nature conservation are often limited. When areas of high biodiversity value rest on private land, voluntary participation of landowners to conservation should be sought. Voluntary programs are still rarely implemented and evaluated in their effectiveness in achieving conservation targets. From 2000 onwards, a conservation program was conducted to preserve raptor nests from forest clear‐cutting in private lands of North Karelia (Finland). Landowners were proposed to voluntarily set aside a forest buffer around nests of Accipiter gentilis, Buteo buteo and Pernis apivorus on their land. Participation was based on self‐motivation, with no incentive involved. Participation to the program was extremely high (97% of 327 approached landowners during 2002–2006 joined). This positive attitude reduced nest losses as a result of forestry from 54% in the 1990s (n = 327 known nests) to only 2% since the start of the program (n = 519 nests). The voluntary action proved effective as a before‐after‐control‐impact analysis showed that low‐buffered nests (which had clear‐cutting within 100 m; n = 48) had similar occupancy as high‐buffered nests (no clear‐cutting within 100 m; n = 144). Occupancy, however, decreased with shorter distance to the clear‐cut within the 100 m radius, and thus as wide a buffer as possible is recommended to retain occupancy of a nest site. We conclude that voluntary‐based approaches can be useful for cost‐effective conservation and they should be considered more often in conservation practice.
A description of the lumbar interfascial triangle and its relation with the lateral raphe: anatomical constituents of load transfer through the lateral margin of the thoracolumbar fascia
Authors: Schuenke M. D. , Vleeming A. , Van Hoof T. , Willard F. H.
Published: May 2012

Movement and stability of the lumbosacral region is contingent on the balance of forces distributed through the myofascial planes associated with the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF). This structure is located at the common intersection of several extremity muscles (e.g. latissimus dorsi and gluteus maximus), as well as hypaxial (e.g. ventral trunk muscles) and epaxial (paraspinal) muscles. The mechanical properties of the fascial constituents establish the parameters guiding the dynamic interaction of muscle groups that stabilize the lumbosacral spine. Understanding the construction of this complex myofascial junction is fundamental to biomechanical analysis and implementation of effective rehabilitation in individuals with low back and pelvic girdle pain. Therefore, the main objectives of this study were to describe the anatomy of the lateral margin of the TLF, and specifically the interface between the fascial sheath surrounding the paraspinal muscles and the aponeurosis of the transversus abdominis (TA) and internal oblique (IO) muscles. The lateral margin of the TLF was exposed via serial reduction dissections from anterior and posterior approaches. Axial sections (cadaveric and magnetic resonance imaging) were examined to characterize the region between the TA and IO aponeurosis and the paraspinal muscles. It is confirmed that the paraspinal muscles are enveloped by a continuous paraspinal retinacular sheath (PRS), formed by the deep lamina of the posterior layer of the TLF. The PRS extends from the spinous process to transverse process, and is distinct from both the superficial lamina of the posterior layer and middle layer of the TLF. As the aponeurosis approaches the lateral border of the PRS, it appears to separate into two distinct laminae, which join the anterior and posterior walls of the PRS. This configuration creates a previously undescribed fat‐filled lumbar interfascial triangle situated along the lateral border of the paraspinal muscles from the 12th rib to the iliac crest. This triangle results in the unification of different fascial sheaths along the lateral border of the TLF, creating a ridged‐union of dense connective tissue that has been termed the lateral raphe (Spine, 9,1984, 163). This triangle may function in the distribution of laterally mediated tension to balance different viscoelastic moduli, along either the middle or posterior layers of the TLF.
Studying the reproductive biology of the common wall lizard using ultrasonography
Authors: Sacchi R. , Pellitteri‐Rosa D. , Capelli A. , Ghitti M. , Di Paoli A. , Bellati A. , Scali S. , Galeotti P. , Fasola M.
Published: May 2012

Ultrasound imaging is a promising technique for studying the reproductive biology of reptiles, but it has yet to be validated for small lizards in field research. This study aimed both at assessing the reliability of ultrasound imaging in field research and the measurement of the breeding effort and timing of reproduction in the northern Italian female population of the common wall lizard, Podarcis muralis. To this end, we kept 22 gravid females in captivity in April and June 2010 and used ultrasonography to predict the number of eggs they laid. The following year, we applied the same technique to monitor the breeding performance of females in their natural habitat. We collected 119 females between March and June 2011 and used ultrasonography to evaluate clutch size and egg developmental stage. Our results showed that 20 out of 22 females (91%) laid the exact number of eggs predicted. The field research showed that the percentage of gravid females varied over the season, showing a clear bimodal pattern with two peaks in late April and late May. These peaks corresponded to the first and second clutch depositions, respectively. Furthermore, female common wall lizards reach sexual maturity at a body size of 50–51 mm snout–vent length, at around 2 years of age. Mean clutch size in our population ranged from 2 to 5.5 eggs, with an average of 3.6 eggs. There was a strong positive relationship between clutch and female size, which was only statistically significant in the first deposition. The female lizards in our study were smaller than those in French and central European populations, they reached maturity at 50.9 mm and they laid few eggs. In this paper, we discuss some potential explanations for such differences.
Relationship between cardioventilatory coupling and pulmonary gas exchange
Authors: Sin P. Y. W. , Webber M. R. , Galletly D. C. , Tzeng Y. C.
Published: May 2012

Cardioventilatory coupling (CVC) is a temporal alignment between the heartbeat and inspiratory activity caused by pulsatile baroreceptor afferent activity. However, although first described over a century ago, the functional significance of CVC has yet to be established. One hypothesis is that baroreceptor triggering of inspiration positions heartbeats into phases of the respiratory cycle that may optimize pulmonary gas exchange efficiency. To test this hypothesis, we recruited ten patients with permanently implanted fixed‐rate cardiac pacemakers and instructed them to pace breathe at heart rate‐to‐respiratory rate (HR/f) ratios of 3·8, 4·0 and 4·2. This breathing protocol enabled us to simulate heartbeat distributions similar to those seen in the presence (4·0) and complete absence (3·8, 4·2) of CVC. Results showed that heart rate, mean arterial pressure, end‐tidal carbon dioxide and tidal volume remained unchanged across the three conditions (P>0·05). Pulmonary gas exchange efficiency, as determined by the ventilatory equivalents of carbon dioxide () and oxygen () did not differ significantly by HR/f ratio (P = 0·29 and P = 0·70, respectively). These data suggest that CVC does not play a significant role in optimizing pulmonary gas exchange efficiency in humans.
‘Read ten thousand books, walk ten thousand miles’: geographical mobility and capital accumulation among Chinese scholars
Authors: Leung Maggi W H
Published: May 2012

International movements of scientists and researchers have become more common in the increasingly inter‐connected global knowledge economy. Geographic mobility is often perceived as a key to academic excellence and career advancement by scholars, especially in advanced economies. In China, where international geographical mobility is a newly‐gained privilege after the advent of the Open Door Policy, academics belong to one of the most mobile subsets of the population. This paper interrogates the impact of academic mobility at the individual level among Chinese scholars who have conducted research visits in Germany. Specifically, the paper operationalises the equivocal notion of personal development with the concepts of capital accumulation and conversion (after Pierre Bourdieu). Drawing upon findings from 64 in‐depth interviews with Chinese scholars of postdoctoral level or above and six key informants, and a postal survey (123 Chinese scholars with mobility biography to Germany), this paper illustrates how geographical mobility can be conceptualised as a form of capital that can be accumulated and converted to cultural, social, economic and symbolic capital. While geographical mobility is predominantly considered as a capital for positive self‐ and professional development, examples also demonstrate the potential detrimental effect on social capital, especially among young Chinese scholars. Using an agent‐centred approach, this paper argues against a mechanical translation of geographical mobility to capital accumulation, but for a grounded understanding of the highly individualised and contextualised development processes.
Associations of Alcohol, Nicotine, Cannabis, and Drug Use/Dependence with Educational Attainment: Evidence from Cotwin‐Control Analyses
Authors: Grant Julia D. , Scherrer Jeffrey F. , Lynskey Michael T. , Agrawal Arpana , Duncan Alexis E. , Haber Jon Randolph , Heath Andrew C. , Bucholz Kathleen K.
Published: May 2012

Background

Although substance use is associated with reduced educational attainment, this association may be owing to common risk factors such as socioeconomic disadvantage. We tested whether alcohol, nicotine, and illicit drug use and dependence were associated with lifetime educational attainment after controlling for familial background characteristics.

Methods

Data were from a 1987 questionnaire and a 1992 telephone diagnostic interview of 6,242 male twins (n = 3,121 pairs; mean age = 41.9 years in 1992) who served in theU.S. military during theVietnam era and therefore, were eligible for educational benefits after military service. Reduced educational attainment (<16 years) was examined in twin pairs discordant for substance use history. Substance use and dependence risk factors assessed were early alcohol and cannabis use, daily nicotine use, lifetime cannabis use, and alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, and any illicit drug dependence.

Results

Three significant differences were observed between at‐risk twins and their cotwins: Compared to their low‐risk cotwins, likelihood of completing <16 years of education was significantly increased for the following: (i) twins who used alcohol before age 18 (adjustedOR = 1.44; 95%CI: 1.02 to 2.05), (ii) twins with a lifetime alcohol dependence diagnosis (adjustedOR = 1.76; 95%CI: 1.27 to 2.44), and (iii) twins who had used nicotine daily for 30 or more days (adjustedOR = 2.54, 95%CI: 1.55 to 4.17). However, no differences in education were observed among twin pairs discordant for cannabis initiation, early cannabis use, or cannabis, nicotine, or any illicit drug dependence.

Conclusions

Even in a veteran population with access to military educational benefits, early alcohol use, alcohol dependence, and daily nicotine use remained significantly associated with years of education after controlling for shared familial contributions to educational attainment. The association between other substances and educational attainment was explained by familial factors common to these substance use phenotypes and adult educational attainment.
Etiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Uterine Leiomyomas
Authors: Rice Kate E. , Secrist Jenny R. , Woodrow Elizabeth L. , Hallock Laura M. , Neal Jeremy L.
Published: May 2012

Uterine leiomyomas are the most common benign gynecologic tumors. While the true etiology of leiomyomas remains unknown, their origin is thought to be multifactorial including genetic, hormonal, and tissue growth factor variations. Leiomyomas are predominantly found in women of reproductive age and are the leading indication for hysterectomy worldwide. Menstrual irregularities, pain, and fertility difficulties may arise from leiomyoma presence, although many women remain asymptomatic. Diagnosis can be made via ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging, when precise mapping of the tissue is needed. Many treatment options are available ranging from surgical to medical and should be chosen depending on symptom severity, number and size of leiomyomas, patient age, fertility desires, and patient preferences. The objective of this article is to present a practical clinical perspective on uterine leiomyomas and an overview of contemporary treatment options.
Contraception and Antiepileptic Drugs
Authors: Guillemette Taasha , Yount Susan M.
Published: May 2012

Epilepsy is a neurologic condition that affects women and women's choices in many areas of their lives. Some antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) used in the treatment of epilepsy can interact with hormonal contraceptives. The result can be decreased effectiveness in the contraceptive with the possibility of unintended pregnancy, or decreased effectiveness of the AED that can result in seizure activity. This article provides information about concurrent AED and contraceptive use to assist health care providers in guiding women with epilepsy to make the best contraceptive choices based on their reproductive life plans.
What is the Efficiency of ATP Signaling from Erythrocytes to Regulate Distribution of O2 Supply Within the Microvasculature?
Authors: ELLIS CHRISTOPHER G. , MILKOVICH Stephanie , GOLDMAN Daniel
Published: May 2012

Please cite this paper as: Ellis CG, Milkovich S, Goldman D. What is the efficiency of ATP signaling from erythrocytes to regulate distribution of O2 supply within the microvasculature? Microcirculation 19: 440–450, 2012.

Erythrocytes appear to be ideal sensors for regulating microvascular O2 supply as they release the potent vasodilator ATP in an O2 saturation‐dependent manner. Whether erythrocytes play a significant role in regulating O2 supply in the complex environment of diffusional O2 exchange among capillaries, arterioles, and venules, depends on the efficiency with which erythrocytes signal the vascular endothelium. If one assumes that the distribution of purinergic receptors is uniform throughout the microvasculature, then the most efficient site for signaling should occur in capillaries, where the erythrocyte membrane is in close proximity to the endothelium. ATP released from erythrocytes would diffuse a short distance to P2y receptors inducing an increase in blood flow, possibly the result of endothelial hyperpolarization. We hypothesize that this hyperpolarization varies across the capillary bed depending upon erythrocyte supply rate and the flux of O2 from these erythrocytes to support O2 metabolism. This would suggest that the capillary bed would be the most effective site for erythrocytes to communicate tissue oxygen needs. Electrically coupled endothelial cells conduct the integrated signal upstream where arterioles adjust vascular resistance, thus enabling ATP released from erythrocytes to regulate the magnitude and distribution of O2 supply to individual capillary networks.
Low Temperature Crystallization of Metastable Nickel Manganite Spinel Thin Films
Authors: Ko Song Won , Schulze Heidi M. , Saint John David B. , Podraza Nikolas J. , Dickey Elizabeth C. , Trolier‐McKinstry Susan S.
Published: May 2012

Single‐phase metastable cubic spinel nickel manganite films, 0.5 ≤ Mn/(Mn+Ni) ≤ 0.8, were produced using chemical solution deposition. Of these, the sample with Mn/(Mn+Ni) = 0.80 showed the lowest electrical resistivity. Films annealed in Argon at 400°C for 5 h exhibit temperature coefficient of resistance values ranging from −3.81 to −3.93%/K and electrical resistivities of ~10 kΩ‐cm. It was found by transmission electron microscopy that the metastable spinel phase appeared in both pyrolyzed and post‐deposition annealed films. Spectroscopic ellipsometry measurements over the spectral range from 0.75 to 6.0 eV showed that the complex dielectric function spectra (ε = ε1 + iε2) varied as a function of the annealing conditions, due at least in part to changes in film density. Aging experiments have been used to identify variations in resistivity and temperature coefficient of resistance as functions of time to assess material stability. As a result, the aging coefficient was 6.5% for a film with Mn/(Ni+Mn) = 0.80 after aging at 150°C for 500 h.
Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy Analysis on the Preferential Incorporation of Er3+ Ions into Fluoride Nanocrystals in Oxyfluoride Glass‐Ceramics
Authors: Liu Chao , Heo Jong
Published: May 2012

The preferential incorporation of
Er

3+ ions into the
PbF

2 nanocrystals during the ceraming process of oxyfluoride glass was analyzed using electron energy loss spectroscopy analysis. Concentrations of
Er

3+ ions were considerably higher in
PbF

2 nanocrystals compared to those in the glass matrix. Changes in lineshapes of absorption spectra from
Er

3+: 4
I
15/2→4
I
13/2 transition and lifetimes of the excited‐state
Er

3+ (4
S
3/2 level) ions also supported the incorporation of
Er

3+ ions into
PbF

2 nanocrystals.
An Ultra‐Broad Working Temperature Dielectric Material of BaTiO3‐Based Ceramics with Nd2O3 Addition
Authors: Li Lingxia , Guo Dong , Xia Wangsuo , Liao Qingwei , Han Yemei , Peng Yin
Published: May 2012

An ultra‐broad working temperature dielectric material, BaTiO3–Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3–Nb2O5–MgO–Glass with Nd2O3 addition, was investigated for the first time. Microstructure and dielectric properties of the well‐sintered samples were studied. XRD results showed the formation of tetragonal perovskite and the presence of a second phase of NaBiTi6O14. It is found that the addition of Nd2O3 produces a decrease in tetragonality of perovskite structure which could be interpreted by the substitution of Nd3+ ions into Ti sites. Bulk densities and dielectric properties were measured as a function of Nd2O3 concentration. The 0.4 mol% Nd2O3‐doped sample showed the optimal dielectric performance (εr = 1445, tan δ<2.0%, ΔC/C ≤±12%) that satisfied EIA‐X9R specification. In particular, the ceiling working temperature was significantly enhanced from 200°C to 270°C by doping Nd2O3. Since it possesses large dielectric constant, low dielectric loss, and stable temperature character, this material shows promising applications for the ultra‐broad temperature range components, e.g., multilayer ceramic capacitors.
Protective effect of chromene isolated from Sargassum horneri against UV‐A‐induced damage in skin dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Kim Jung‐Ae , Ahn Byul‐Nim , Kong Chang‐Suk , Kim Se‐Kwon
Published: May 2012

Skin homoeostasis is interrupted during UV‐A irradiation. How the UV‐A‐altered skin components influences photoageing of skin should be investigated using human in vitro models that are important for understanding skin ageing. In this study, chromene compound, sargachromenol, was isolated from Sargassum horneri, and its potency on inhibition of photoageing was investigated in UV‐A‐irradiated dermal fibroblasts. Effects of sargachromenol on the prevention of photoageing were evaluated by measuring ROS production, membrane protein oxidation, lipid peroxidation and ageing‐related gene expression in UV‐A‐irradiated human skin dermal fibroblasts. The results indicated that treatment with sargachromenol suppressed the collagenase matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), MMP‐1, MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 expression without any cytotoxicity and phototoxicity. It was further found that these inhibitions were because of increase in the expression of TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2 genes. Furthermore, we confirmed that the UV‐A‐induced transcriptions of AP‐1 signalling pathway were regulated by sargachromenol treatment in UV‐A‐irradiated dermal fibroblasts.
Gradual increase in the risk of match injury in Norwegian male professional football: A 6‐year prospective study
Authors: Bjørneboe J. , Bahr R. , Andersen T. E.
Published: May 2012

The aim of this study was to monitor injury incidence and pattern in Norwegian male professional football over six consecutive seasons and compare the risk of injury between the preseason and competitive season. All time loss injuries were recorded by the medical staff of each club. In total, 2365 injuries were recorded. The incidence of acute injuries was 15.9/1000 match hours [95% confidence interval (CI): 14.9–16.8], 1.9/1000 training hours (95% CI: 1.7–2.0), and 1.4 (95% CI: 1.3–1.5) overuse injuries/1000 h. A linear regression model found an annual increase of 1.06 acute match injuries/1000 h (95% CI: 0.40–1.73), corresponding to a total increase of 49% during the 6‐year study period. When accounting for interteam variation and clustering effects using a general estimating equation model, the increase in injury incidence was 0.92 (95% CI: −0.11–1.95, P = 0.083). No difference in the risk of acute match injuries (rate ratio (RR): 0.86, 95% CI: 0.73–1.01), acute training injuries (RR: 1.16, 95% CI: 0.99–1.36), or overuse injuries (RR: 1.04, 95% CI: 0.89–1.21) was observed between the preseason and competitive season. In conclusion, the overall risk of acute match injuries in Norwegian male professional football increased by 49% during the study period, although this increase was not fully consistent across teams. We detected no change in the risk of training and overuse injuries or any difference between the preseason and competitive season.
An assessment of periodontal health in patients with schizophrenia and taking antipsychotic medication
Authors: Eltas A , Kartalcı Ş , Eltas ŞD , Dündar S , Uslu MO
Published: May 2012

Abstract:Background and objective: Severe periodontal disease is prevalent among patients with schizophrenia and is caused by the side effect of their medication, poor dental hygiene and smoking. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the rate of periodontal disease could be modulated by changing the salivary flow rate (SFR) because of the use of antipsychotic medications in patients with schizophrenia.

Methods: Group A (n = 33) included patients who used medications that may cause xerostomia, or dry mouth and Group B (n = 20) included patients who used medications that may cause sialorrhea, an excessive secretion of saliva. The participants’ periodontal status was assessed using the plaque index (PI), assessing bleeding on probing (BoP), probing pocket depth (PPD) and clinical attachment levels (CAL).

Results: The mean of PI and BoP was significantly higher in Group A than in Group B (P < 0.001), but the PPD, CAL and decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) scores were not significantly different in the two groups according to the statistical results (P > 0.05).

Conclusions: The researcher concluded that there is a high risk of periodontal disease among patients with schizophrenia, and there is an even higher risk of periodontal disease induced by medication that increased SFR. Preventive dental protocol should be increased during the dental health care of this disadvantaged patient group.
Do thrombophilic gene mutations have a role on thromboembolic events in cancer patients?
Authors: OZKAN Metin , SIVGIN Serdar , KOCYIGIT Ismail , EMIROGULLARI Funda , DIKILITAS Mustafa , KAYNAR Leylagul , OZKUL Yusuf , ER Ozlem
Published: May 2012

Aim:  Thromboembolism is common in patients with cancer and may be considered a major cause of morbidity and mortality. We studied the most common genetic polymorphism characteristics that may have roles in the development of thrombosis in patients with cancer.

Methods:  A total of 158 patients with cancer who had had any thrombotic event were included, together with a control group of 134 patients with cancer without a thromboembolic event. The presence of mutations (Factor V Leiden G1691A, prothrombin G20210A) and polymorphisms (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase [MTHFR] C677T and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI‐1) 4G/5G) were analysed.

Results:  A heterozygous polymorphism for Factor V Leiden G1691A was found in 48 patients (30.3%) and a homozygous polymorphism in only one (0.63%), compared to 32 heterozygous (23.8%) and one homozygous (0.74%) polymorphism in the control group (P = 0.462). Prothrombin G20210A heterozygous polymorphism was observed in 11(6.9%) and four (2.5%) in the patients and controls, respectively. The MTHFR C677T heterozygous polymorphism was found in 48 (30.3%) and 24 (15.1%) and the homozygous polymorphism was observed in 15 (9.4%) and 12 (7.5%) in the study and control group, respectively (P = 0.04).

Conclusion:  Although we found a statistically significant difference between patients with and without thrombosis in respect to MTHFR C677T gene mutation, our data suggest that we do not have enough evidence yet to recommend performing genetic analysis.
Hospital morbidity data for determining spread of disease at diagnosis for colorectal cancer: A validation study
Authors: THOMPSON Bridie , LUMLEY John , COORY Michael
Published: May 2012

Aims:  There is currently no routine collection of cancer stages in population‐based data in Australia. This study evaluates the accuracy of International classification of diseases (ICD) codes for secondary neoplasms recorded in hospital morbidity data to assign spread of disease at diagnosis for colorectal cancer.

Methods:  The reference (gold) standard was the Australian clinicopathological stage (ACPS) documented by a treating colorectal surgeon and derived from histopathology and clinical findings. To allow comparison with stages derived from the hospital morbidity data (HMD), ACPS was mapped to the spread of disease (local, regional and distant). Sensitivity, specificity and positive‐predictive values were calculated to compare the accuracy of stage derived from HMD.

Results:  Data from both the reference standard and HMD were available for 499 patients. HMD slightly overestimated patients with local disease (62.3 vs 56.9%). There was a corresponding underestimation of regional and distant spread of disease. While sensitivity for regional and distant disease was moderate (66.4 and 71.4%, respectively), specificity was high (92.7 and 96.6%, respectively).

Conclusion:  ICD codes for secondary neoplasms in HMD are limited in their utility for determining the spread of disease for colorectal cancer. Clinicians need to ensure that clinical coders are provided with enough information to accurately code for spread of disease. We recommend reporting histopathology in a synoptic format which includes background information on the presence or absence of distant metastasis and the tumor node metastasis stage.