bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Assault Badly Misses the Mark
Authors: Sztompka Piotr
Published: March 2009

The critique of Robert K. Merton in terms of the criteria relevant for the history of methodology is misdirected. Merton has never been a methodologist, and his influential notion of middle-range theories has been merely a polemical position taken both against pure abstract, conceptual constructs, and narrow fact-finding. It helped sociology to sustain fruitful directions of research, free from abuses of “grand theory” as well as pure empiricism. Merton's true and many “arrivals” (read: contributions to sociology) have been substantive and not meta-theoretical. Because of them he is a classic of twentieth-century sociology.
Acute increase in urinary 6-sulfatoximelatonin after clomipramine, as a predictive measure for emotional improvement
Authors: Markus RP , Franco DG , Carvalho LA , Gentil V. , Gorenstein C.
Published: March 2009

Nocturnal melatonin pineal output is triggered by sympathetic outflow. Antidepressants that block norepinephrine neuronal uptake should increase pineal function. This can be monitored by measuring 6-sulfatoximelatonin (aMT6s), the main melatonin metabolite, in the urine. In this study, we compared the excretion of aMT6s before (baseline), one, and 21 days after administration of clomipramine to healthy subjects (n = 32). At the end of treatment, subjects were divided into responders (n = 12) and non-responders (n = 20) according to the improvement in their emotional state in three out of four domains (interpersonal tolerance, efficiency, well-being and feeling different from the usual self). There was no difference in aMT6s before clomipramine between responders and non-responders in any of the time intervals analysed (06:00—12:00, 12:00—18:00, 18:00—24:00 and 24:00—06:00 hours). At day one, but not at day 21, the fraction of aMT6s excreted during the time interval 24:00—06:00, relative to the total amount excreted by each subject per day, was significantly higher (P = 0.0287) than baseline (0.57 ± 0.04) in responders. No significant difference was observed in non-responders. The increase in pineal function induced by clomipramine was restricted to day one, indicating that long-lasting adaptation restores pineal function. In addition, the day one increase in aMT6s was significantly increased only in the responders group, raising the possibility that the blocking of neuronal uptake is predictive of emotional improvement.
Effects of subchronic phencyclidine on behaviour of female rats on the elevated plus maze and open field
Authors: McLean SL , Woolley ML , Neill JC
Published: March 2009

Female hooded-Lister rats received either subchronic phencyclidine (PCP) (2 mg/kg, n = 20) or vehicle (1 ml/kg, n = 20) intraperitoneally twice daily for 7 days, followed by a 7-day washout period. Rats were challenged with acute PCP or vehicle and tested for locomotor activity to ensure hyperactivity was observed in the subchronic PCP-treated rats. Rats were then tested on the elevated plus maze and in an open field for 10 min. Subchronic PCP did not significantly affect behaviour on the elevated plus maze or in the open field. In conclusion, subchronic PCP does not induce anxiety-like behaviour.
Program Quality and Early Childhood Inclusion
Authors: Buysse Virginia , Hollingsworth Heidi L.
Published: March 2009

This article advocates for the need to link early childhood program quality and professional development, with a particular focus on how this topic relates to early childhood inclusion. There is consensus in the early childhood field about various components of program quality for young children in general, and a number of states now have program quality improvement systems in place to guide professional practice in this regard. However, there is a need to reach consensus on dimensions of program quality that define high quality inclusion and to reflect these dimensions in both program standards and professional development efforts. This article provides recommendations for how components of quality inclusion can be incorporated into professional development to ensure that practitioners are highly effective in serving every child and family, including those with disabilities.
Inspection Visits in Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly
Authors: Flores Cristina , Bostrom Alan , Newcomer Robert
Published: March 2009

This study investigated the effects of a policy change in California that decreased annual state inspections of residential care facilities for the elderly to once every 5 years. Data collection involved a 5-year retrospective review of public facility files. Files were obtained from a probability sample of 340 licensed facilities, stratified by facility size and district office. Generalized estimating equations were used for multivariate analyses of size, office, and period effects of types of visits made and citations relative to quality of care. Routine survey visits were replaced with increases in the number of complaint- or problem-driven visits. Rates of quality of care citations arising from complaints or problems increased. Practice patterns among offices and variations by facility size were identified. Data from the resulting process affect comparisons of the industry and facility trends regarding quality of care. The problem-driven system may affect the rate of proactive consultation and quality-improvement visits.
The State of the Castle
Authors: Paquette Boots Denise , Bihari Jayshree , Elliott Euel
Published: March 2009

Second Amendment issues regarding the right to bear arms in the home have come into focus recently with the U.S. Supreme Court landmark decision in District of Columbia v. Heller. Despite strong antigun sentiment in the wake of high-profile shootings, sweeping new castle doctrine legislation has passed in 23 states in the last 4 years. These laws effectively expand individuals’ right to defend their home and possessions with lethal force without the necessity to retreat. To date, there is little criminological research that examines the evolution of the modern castle doctrine legislation in the United States. The present article addresses this gap in the literature by offering a historical perspective on the legal etiology of the castle doctrine relating to self-defense and then analyzes existing and pending castle doctrine legislation through December 2008. A discussion of the legal and criminological implications of these statutes on public policy is offered.
The Incremental Validity of Positive Emotions in Predicting School Functioning
Authors: Lewis Ashley D. , Huebner E. Scott , Reschly Amy L. , Valois Robert F.
Published: March 2009

Proponents of positive psychology have argued for more comprehensive assessments incorporating positive measures (e.g., student strengths) as well as negative measures (e.g., psychological symptoms). However, few variable-centered studies have addressed the incremental validity of positive assessment data. The authors investigated the incremental validity of positive emotions relative to negative emotions in predicting adolescents’ adaptive school functioning. Positive emotions demonstrated significant incremental validity in predicting school satisfaction, adaptive coping, and student engagement, but not self-reported GPA. The findings offer some support for the utility of positive measures in psychoeducational assessments.
Börjeson-Forssman-Lehmann Syndrome Due to a Novel Plant Homeodomain Zinc Finger Mutation in the PHF6 Gene
Authors: Mangelsdorf Marie , Chevrier Evelyne , Mustonen Aki , Picketts David J.
Published: March 2009

The Börjeson-Forssman-Lehmann syndrome is an X-linked mental retardation disorder caused by mutations in the PHF6 gene. The PHF6 gene contains 2 plant homeodomain zinc fingers, suggesting a role for the protein in chromatin remodeling. In this study, the authors report on a Finnish family with a classical Börjeson-Forssman-Lehmann syndrome phenotype caused by a G to T nucleotide substitution at position 266 within exon 4 within the PHF6 gene (c.266G>T). The resulting glycine to valine (p.G89V) change corresponds to a highly conserved residue within the first plant homeodomain zinc finger domain. This is a novel change that adds to the number of plant homeodomain zinc finger mutations identified, such that 23% of all Börjeson-Forssman-Lehmann syndrome mutations lie within this motif. Moreover, it highlights the functional importance of plant homeodomain zinc finger motifs to human disease and more specifically to PHF6 function.
Rapid Infusion of a Loading Dose of Intravenous Levetiracetam With Minimal Dilution: A Safety Study
Authors: Wheless James W. , Clarke Dave , Hovinga Collin A. , Ellis Michelle , Durmeier Misha , McGregor Amy , Perkins Fred
Published: March 2009

Intravenous antiepileptic drugs are required in patients needing urgent treatment or unable to take oral medication. The safety of intravenous levetiracetam has been established in prospective studies of adult epilepsy and healthy participants. The authors performed a prospective, single-center study to evaluate the safety of a rapid loading dose of intravenous levetiracetam. Patients were divided into 3 equal dosing groups (N = 15 each): 20, 40, and 60 mg/kg (corresponding to maximum doses of 1, 2, and 3 g). Electrocardiogram and safety assessment were performed during the infusion. Ages were 4 to 32 years. Postinfusion serum levetiracetam concentrations were 14 to 189 μg/mL. There were no significant changes in blood pressure, no local infusion site reactions, and no electrocardiogram abnormalities. The authors concluded that high serum levels of parenteral levetiracetam can be achieved rapidly and safely, in a small infusion volume. This finding has important implications for the treatment of status epilepticus.
Surrogate Decision Makers' Understanding of Dementia Patients' Prior Wishes for End-of-Life Care
Authors: Black Betty S. , Fogarty Linda A. , Phillips Hilary , Finucane Thomas , Loreck David J. , Baker Alva , Blass David M. , Rabins Peter V.
Published: March 2009

Objectives: This study examines how surrogate decision makers for dementia patients developed an understanding of patient preferences about end-of-life (EOL) care and patient wishes. Methods: Semistructured interviews were conducted with 34 surrogate decision makers for hospice-eligible nursing home patients with dementia. The data were content analyzed. Results: Most surrogates reported that patients had previously completed an advance directive (59%), discussed preferences for EOL care (56%), or done both (38%). Catalysts for and barriers to completing an advance directive or having EOL care discussions included factors that were both intrinsic and extrinsic to the patient. The most commonly reported wish for EOL care was to not be kept alive by “machines” or “extraordinary measures.” Discussion: Health care providers may be able to assist patients and families by normalizing discussions of dying, encouraging advance care planning, helping them identify goals for EOL care, and providing information to support treatment decisions consistent with patients' wishes.
Sense of Mastery, Social Support, and Health in Elderly Canadians
Authors: Gadalla Tahany M.
Published: March 2009

Objective: This study aims to examine the structural relationships among sense of mastery (SOM), income level, social support, physical health, and stress in older Canadians, while controlling for demographic characteristics. Method: This research uses data collected in the National Population Health Survey on Canadians aged 65 years and older ( N = 1,399). Results: Higher income predicts better health and more social support, which, in turn, predicts higher SOM. The relationship between physical health and stress is fully mediated through SOM for both genders. The SOM fully mediates the relationship between social support and stress for men and partially mediates this relationship for women. Discussion: Findings confirm the importance of a network of social services targeting older persons with low income, diminished physical health, and/or those living alone.
`Black Bob' Craufurd and Ireland, 1798—1804
Authors: Durey Michael J.
Published: March 2009

This article represents a reassessment of Robert Craufurd, focusing on his role as a soldier-politician concerned with the position of Ireland in the wider empire during the era of the Act of Union. It explains the impact Irish conditions had on his political thought and explores how he used his new awareness while an MP not only to support his military defence policy, but also to promote a reform programme for Ireland, even though his military career was threatened as a consequence.
Officering Kitchener's Armies: A Case Study of the 36th (Ulster) Division
Authors: Bowman Timothy
Published: March 2009

This article reassesses the original composition of the officer corps of the Kitchener armies formed in late 1914 using the recently released officers' personal files at the National Archives, Kew. It challenges the existing historiography by showing that many Kitchener units did not draw their officers from pre-war Officer Training Corps products and relied on men with very limited or no previous military experience. It demonstrates that the officer composition of the 36th (Ulster) Division was similar to that of its counterparts in Great Britain, and that the Ulster Volunteer Force influence on officer appointments was much more limited than has been assumed.
Work—Life Balance?
Authors: Cohen Laurie , Duberley Joanne , Musson Gill
Published: March 2009

Based on data generated in autoethnographic conversations among the three authors, in this article the authors critique the prevailing metaphor of work—life balance. They offer instead a conceptualization of the relationship between work and nonwork aspects of life that is more dynamic and less reductionist and in which emotions, as well as issues of autonomy, control, and identity, are integral features. These conversations elucidate home and work realms not as reified entities but rather as elastic constructions reinforced and also at times changed and redrawn in the course of the authors' interaction.
Synaptic Protein Degradation as a Mechanism in Memory Reorganization
Authors: Kaang Bong-Kiun , Lee Sue-Hyun , Kim Hyoung
Published: March 2009

An accumulating body of evidence shows that reactivated long-term memory undergoes a dynamic process called reconsolidation, in which de novo protein synthesis is required to maintain the memory. These findings open up a new dimension in the field of memory research. However, few studies have shown how once-consolidated memory becomes labile. The authors’ recent findings have demonstrated that pre-existing long-term memory becomes unstable via the ubiquitin/ proteasome-dependent protein degradation pathway and that this labile state is required for the reorganization of fear memory. Here, the authors review this finding and focus on the labile state that is critical for the reorganization of memory triggered after memory retrieval.
Moving Homes
Authors: Schillmeier Michael , Heinlein Michael
Published: March 2009

This article argues that home relates not so much to a fixed and clearly bounded spatial “being” but can be understood as a “becoming,” that is, a set of spatial and temporal practices and experiences that fabricate the (un-)canniness of what it means to be at home or not. The (un-)canniness of being at home refers to the mediating and altering relations of changing bodies, emotions, and things that enact the specificities that make up the very feelings and practices of being at home. By retracing the story of a male suffering from two strokes, the authors follow the process of moving from his private house to a nursing home. The ethnographic work presented here tries to highlight the very fragile contingency and normativity of such dynamics concerning the (un-)canniness of being at home.
Survivorship of the Neuflex Silicone Implant in MCP Joint Replacement
Authors: KIMANI B. MWAURA , TRAIL I. A. , HEARNDEN A. , DELANEY R. , NUTTALL D.
Published: March 2009

The Neuflex silicone metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint replacement has previously been shown to provide improved movement, particularly flexion, when compared with the Swanson implant. In this study, we reviewed the outcome of 237 Neuflex implants in 66 patients with a follow-up of up to 7 years. Kaplan–Meier analysis using revision as the end stage revealed survival at 7 years to be 88%. If however an implant fracture, as seen radiographically, is taken as the end point, the survivorship drops to 68% at 7 years. These figures are comparable with a similar analysis for the Swanson implant. We conclude that the improved range of motion of the Neuflex implant demonstrated previously does not result in either a higher or a lower revision or implant fracture rate when compared with the Swanson implant.
Rab27a and MyRIP regulate the amount and multimeric state of VWF released from endothelial cells
Authors: Nightingale Thomas D. , Pattni Krupa , Hume Alistair N. , Seabra Miguel C. , Cutler Daniel F.
Published: March 2009

Endothelial cells contain cigar-shaped secretory organelles called Weibel-Palade bodies (WPBs) that play a crucial role in both hemostasis and the initiation of inflammation. The major cargo protein of WPBs is von Willebrand factor (VWF). In unstimulated cells, this protein is stored in a highly multimerized state coiled into protein tubules, but after secretagogue stimulation and exocytosis it unfurls, under shear force, as long platelet-binding strings. Small GTPases of the Rab family play a key role in organelle function. Using siRNA depletion in primary endothelial cells, we have identified a role for the WPB-associated Rab27a and its effector MyRIP. Both these proteins are present on only mature WPBs, and this rab/effector complex appears to anchor these WPBs to peripheral actin. Depletion of either the Rab or its effector results in a loss of peripheral WPB localization, and this destabilization is coupled with an increase in both basal and stimulated secretion. The VWF released from Rab27a-depleted cells is less multimerized, and the VWF strings seen under flow are shorter. Our results indicate that this Rab/effector complex controls peripheral distribution and prevents release of incompletely processed WPB content.
Mitochondrial pseudogenes in the nuclear genome of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes: implications for past and future population genetic studies
Authors: Hlaing Thaung , Tun-Lin Willoughby , Somboon Pradya , Socheat Duong , Setha To , Min Sein , Chang Moh Seng , Walton Catherine
Published: March 2009

Background

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is widely used in population genetic and phylogenetic studies in animals. However, such studies can generate misleading results if the species concerned contain nuclear copies of mtDNA (Numts) as these may amplify in addition to, or even instead of, the authentic target mtDNA. The aim of this study was to determine if Numts are present inAedes aegyptimosquitoes, to characterise any Numts detected, and to assess the utility of using mtDNA for population genetics studies in this species.

Results

BLAST searches revealed large numbers of Numts in theAe. aegyptinuclear genome on 146 supercontigs. Although the majority are short (80% < 300 bp), some Numts are almost full length mtDNA copies. These long Numts are not due to misassembly of the nuclear genome sequence as the Numt-nuclear genome junctions could be recovered by amplification and sequencing. Numt evolution appears to be a complex process inAe. aegyptiwith ongoing genomic integration, fragmentation and mutation and the secondary movement of Numts within the nuclear genome.

The PCR amplification of the putative mtDNA nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase subunit 4 (ND4) gene from 166 Southeast AsianAe. aegyptimosquitoes generated a network with two highly divergent lineages (clade 1 and clade 2). Approximately 15% of theND4sequences were a composite of those from each clade indicating Numt amplification in addition to, or instead of, mtDNA. Clade 1 was shown to be composed at least partially of Numts by the removal of clade 1-specific bases from composite sequences following enrichment of the mtDNA. It is possible that all the clade 1 sequences in the network were Numts since the clade 2 sequences correspond to the known mitochondrial genome sequence and since all the individuals that produced clade 1 sequences were also found to contain clade 2 mtDNA-like sequences using clade 2-specific primers. However, either or both sets of clade sequences could have Numts since the BLAST searches revealed two long Numts that match clade 2 and one long Numt that matches clade 1. The substantial numbers of mutations in clonedND4PCR products also suggest there are both recently-derived clade 1 and clade 2 Numt sequences.

Conclusion

We conclude that Numts are prevalent inAe. aegyptiand that it is difficult to distinguish mtDNA sequences due to the presence of recently formed Numts. Given this, future population genetic or phylogenetic studies inAe. aegyptishould use nuclear, rather than mtDNA, markers.
An integrated approach for the systematic identification and characterization of heart-enriched genes with unknown functions
Authors: Uchida Shizuka , Schneider André , Wiesnet Marion , Jungblut Benno , Zarjitskaya Polina , Jenniches Katharina , Kreymborg Karsten grosse , Seeger Werner , Braun Thomas
Published: March 2009

Background

High throughput techniques have generated a huge set of biological data, which are deposited in various databases. Efficient exploitation of these databases is often hampered by a lack of appropriate tools, which allow easy and reliable identification of genes that miss functional characterization but are correlated with specific biological conditions (e.g. organotypic expression).

Results

We have developed a simple algorithm (DGSA = D atabase-dependent G ene S election and A nalysis) to identify genes with unknown functions involved in organ development concentrating on the heart. Using our approach, we identified a large number of yet uncharacterized genes, which are expressed during heart development. An initial functional characterization of genes by loss-of-function analysis employing morpholino injections into zebrafish embryos disclosed severe developmental defects indicating a decisive function of selected genes for developmental processes.

Conclusion

We conclude that DGSA is a versatile tool for database mining allowing efficient selection of uncharacterized genes for functional analysis.
The properties of bioengineered chondrocyte sheets for cartilage regeneration
Authors: Mitani Genya , Sato Masato , Lee Jeong IK , Kaneshiro Nagatoshi , Ishihara Miya , Ota Naoshi , Kokubo Mami , Sakai Hideaki , Kikuchi Tetsutaro , Mochida Joji
Published: March 2009

Background

Although the clinical results of autologous chondrocyte implantation for articular cartilage defects have recently improved as a result of advanced techniques based on tissue engineering procedures, problems with cell handling and scaffold imperfections remain to be solved. A new cell-sheet technique has been developed, and is potentially able to overcome these obstacles. Chondrocyte sheets applicable to cartilage regeneration can be prepared with this cell-sheet technique using temperature-responsive culture dishes. However, for clinical application, it is necessary to evaluate the characteristics of the cells in these sheets and to identify their similarities to naive cartilage.

Results

The expression of SOX 9, collagen type 2, 27, integrin α10, and fibronectin genes in triple-layered chondrocyte sheets was significantly increased in comparison to those in conventional monolayer culture and in a single chondrocyte sheet, implying a nature similar to ordinary cartilage. In addition, immunohistochemistry demonstrated that collagen type II, fibronectin, and integrin α10 were present in the triple-layered chondrocyte sheets.

Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that these chondrocyte sheets with a consistent cartilaginous phenotype and adhesive properties may lead to a new strategy for cartilage regeneration.
Improving consensus structure by eliminating averaging artifacts
Authors: KC Dukka B
Published: March 2009

Background

Common structural biology methods (i.e., NMR and molecular dynamics) often produce ensembles of molecular structures. Consequently, averaging of 3D coordinates of molecular structures (proteins and RNA) is a frequent approach to obtain a consensus structure that is representative of the ensemble. However, when the structures are averaged, artifacts can result in unrealistic local geometries, including unphysical bond lengths and angles.

Results

Herein, we describe a method to derive representative structures while limiting the number of artifacts. Our approach is based on a Monte Carlo simulation technique that drives a starting structure (an extended or a 'close-by' structure) towards the 'averaged structure' using a harmonic pseudo energy function. To assess the performance of the algorithm, we applied our approach to Cα models of 1364 proteins generated by the TASSER structure prediction algorithm. The average RMSD of the refined model from the native structure for the set becomes worse by a mere 0.08 Å compared to the average RMSD of the averaged structures from the native structure (3.28 Å for refined structures and 3.36 A for the averaged structures). However, the percentage of atoms involved in clashes is greatly reduced (from 63% to 1%); in fact, the majority of the refined proteins had zero clashes. Moreover, a small number (38) of refined structures resulted in lower RMSD to the native protein versus the averaged structure. Finally, compared to PULCHRA [1], our approach produces representative structure of similar RMSD quality, but with much fewer clashes.

Conclusion

The benchmarking results demonstrate that our approach for removing averaging artifacts can be very beneficial for the structural biology community. Furthermore, the same approach can be applied to almost any problem where averaging of 3D coordinates is performed. Namely, structure averaging is also commonly performed in RNA secondary prediction [2], which could also benefit from our approach.
Molecular assays for the detection of microRNAs in prostate cancer
Authors: Siva Amara C , Nelson Luke J , Fleischer Chad L , Majlessi Mehrdad , Becker Michael M , Vessella Robert L , Reynolds Mark A
Published: March 2009

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs (about 21 to 24 nucleotides in length) that effectively reduce the translation of their target mRNAs. Several studies have shown miRNAs to be differentially expressed in prostate cancer, many of which are found in fragile regions of chromosomes. Expression profiles of miRNAs can provide information to separate malignancies based upon stage, progression and prognosis. Here we describe research prototype assays that detect a number of miRNA sequences with high analytical sensitivity and specificity, including miR-21, miR-182, miR-221 and miR-222, which were identified through expression profiling experiments with prostate cancer specimens. The miRNAs were isolated, amplified and quantified using magnetic bead-based target capture and a modified form of Transcription-Mediated Amplification (TMA).

Results

Analytical sensitivity and specificity were demonstrated in model system experiments using synthetic mature microRNAs or in vitro miRNA hairpin precursor transcripts. Research prototype assays for miR-21, miR-182, miR-221 and miR-222 provided analytical sensitivities ranging from 50 to 500 copies of target per reaction in sample transport medium. Specific capture and detection of mature miR-221 from complex samples was demonstrated in total RNA isolated from human prostate cancer cell lines and xenografts.

Conclusion

Research prototype real-time TMA assays for microRNAs provide accurate and reproducible quantitation using 10 nanograms of input total RNA. These assays can also be used directly with tissue specimens, without the need for a preanalytic RNA isolation step, and thus provide a high-throughput method of microRNA profiling in clinical specimens.
Predicting clinically unrecognized coronary artery disease: use of two- dimensional echocardiography
Authors: Chang Su Min , Hakeem Abdul , Nagueh Sherif F
Published: March 2009

Background

2-D Echo is often performed in patients without history of coronary artery disease (CAD). We sought to determine echo features predictive of CAD.

Methods

2-D Echo of 328 patients without known CAD performed within one year prior to stress myocardial SPECT and angiography were reviewed. Echo features examined were left ventricular and atrial enlargement, LV hypertrophy, wall motion abnormality (WMA), LV ejection fraction (EF) < 50%, mitral annular calcification (MAC) and aortic sclerosis/stenosis (AS). High risk myocardial perfusion abnormality (MPA) was defined as >15% LV perfusion defect or multivessel distribution. Severe coronary artery stenosis (CAS) was defined as left main, 3 VD or 2VD involving proximal LAD.

Results

The mean age was 62 ± 13 years, 59% men, 29% diabetic (DM) and 148 (45%) had > 2 risk factors. Pharmacologic stress was performed in 109 patients (33%). MPA was present in 200 pts (60%) of which, 137 were high risk. CAS was present in 166 pts (51%), 75 were severe. Of 87 patients with WMA, 83% had MPA and 78% had CAS. Multivariate analysis identified age >65, male, inability to exercise, DM, WMA, MAC and AS as independent predictors of MPA and CAS. Independent predictors of high risk MPA and severe CAS were age, DM, inability to exercise and WMA.

2-D echo findings offered incremental value over clinical information in predicting CAD by angiography. (Chi square: 360 vs. 320 p = 0.02).

Conclusion

2-D Echo was valuable in predicting presence of physiological and anatomical CAD in addition to clinical information.
Molecular diagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii infection in cerebrospinal fluid from AIDS patients
Authors: Alfonso Yenisey , Fraga Jorge , Fonseca Carlos , Jiménez Narciso , Pinillos Taimy , Dorta-Contreras Alberto J , Cox Raymundo , Capó Virginia , Pomier Olga , Bandera Francisco , Ginorio Dora
Published: March 2009

Background

Toxoplasmic encephalitis (TE) is one of the most common opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients. In Cuba, despite the highly active antiretroviral therapy, TE is still the most important cause of cerebral mass lesions in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The detection of Toxoplasma gondii by PCR may facilitate the diagnosis and follow-up of TE in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients by direct identification of parasite DNA in clinical samples. The aim of the present study was to evaluate a rapid PCR method using the B1 gene to detect T. gondii in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from patients with suspected TE.

Methods

CSF samples from AIDS and HIV-negative patients were analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups according to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) criteria for AIDS-related TE: AIDS patients with suspected neurotoxoplasmosis and AIDS and HIV-negative patients with other confirmed neurological diseases but no suspicions of TE. Predictive values, diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of the PCR B1 method were calculated.

Results

The results obtained from 190 patients showed that this assay has a good sensitivity and specificity (83.3% and 95.7%, respectively) for the diagnosis of TE in AIDS patients.

Conclusion

PCR using the B1 gene and B22/B23 set of primers is a single, rapid and reliable method that may be valuable for discrimination between toxoplasmosis and other central nervous system (CNS) diseases.
Treatment of focal degenerative cartilage defects with polymer-based autologous chondrocyte grafts: four-year clinical results
Authors: Kreuz Peter C , Müller Sebastian , Ossendorf Christian , Kaps Christian , Erggelet Christoph
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Second-generation autologous chondrocyte implantation with scaffolds stabilizing the grafts is a clinically effective procedure for cartilage repair. In this ongoing prospective observational case report study, we evaluated the effectiveness of BioSeed®-C, a cell-based cartilage graft based on autologous chondrocytes embedded in fibrin and a stable resorbable polymer scaffold, for the treatment of clinical symptomatic focal degenerative defects of the knee.

Methods

Clinical outcome after 4-year clinical follow-up was assessed in 19 patients with preoperatively radiologically confirmed osteoarthritis and a Kellgren-Lawrence score of 2 or more. Clinical scoring was performed before implantation of the graft and 6, 12, and 48 months after implantation using the Lysholm score, the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, and the International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) score. Cartilage regeneration and articular resurfacing were assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 4 years after implantation of the autologous cartilage graft.

Results

Significant improvement (P < 0.05) of the Lysholm and ICRS scores was observed as early as 6 months after implantation of BioSeed®-C and remained stable during follow-up. The IKDC score showed significant improvement compared with the preoperative situation at 12 and 48 months (P < 0.05). The KOOS showed significant improvement in the subclasses pain, activities of daily living, and knee-related quality of life 6 months as well as 1 and 4 years after implantation of BioSeed®-C in osteoarthritic defects (P < 0.05). MRI analysis showed moderate to complete defect filling with a normal to incidentally hyperintense signal in 16 out of 19 patients treated with BioSeed®-C. Two patients without improvement in the clinical and MRI scores received a total knee endoprosthesis after 4 years.

Conclusions

The results show that the good clinical outcome achieved 1 year after implantation of BioSeed®-C remains stable over the course of a period of 4 years and suggest that implanting BioSeed®-C is a promising treatment option for the repair of focal degenerative defects of the knee.
Flow and swell noise in marine seismic data
Authors: Elboth Thomas , Reif Bjørn Anders , Andreassen Øyvind
Published: March 2009

Various weather-related mechanisms for noise generation during marine seismic acquisition were addressed from a fluid-dynamic perspective. This was done by analyzing a number of seismic lines recorded on modern streamers during nonoptimal weather conditions. In addition, we examined some of the complex fluid-mechanics processes associated with flow that surrounds seismic streamers. The main findings were that noise in the [Formula: see text] range is mostly the result of direct hydrostatic-pressure fluctuations on the streamer caused by wave motion. For normal swell noise above [Formula: see text] and for crossflow noise, a significant portion of the observed noise probably comes from dynamic fluctuations caused by the interaction between the streamer and fluid structures in its turbulent boundary layer. This explanation differs from most previous work, which has focused on streamer oscillations, bulge waves inside old fluid-filled seismic streamers, or strumming/tugging as the main source of weather-related noise. Although modern streamers are less sensitive to such sources of noise, their ability to tackle the influence on turbulent flow noise has not improved. This implies that noise induced by turbulent flow has increased its relative impact on modern equipment. To improve the signal-to-noise ratio on seismic data, design issues related to flow noise must be addressed.
Prosodic discrimination in patients with
schizophrenia
Authors: Matsumoto K. , Samson G. T. , O'Daly O. D. , Tracy D. K. , Patel A. D. , Shergill S. S.
Published: March 2009

Fifteen patients with prominent positive symptoms of schizophrenia and 15
normal controls performed verbal prosodic and pure musical discrimination
tasks, with changes in pitch and timing parameters. The patients'
performance was comparable to that of controls on the discrimination of
terminal pitch changes, but significantly poorer on the more difficult
internal pitch discrimination. The latter deficit was positively correlated
with the severity of their positive symptoms. The results suggest that
patients have a deficit in processing fundamental aspects of prosody, which
is associated with the presence of positive symptoms.
Psychiatric presentation of voltage-gated potassium channel antibody-associated encephalopathy
Authors: Parthasarathi U. D. , Harrower T. , Tempest M. , Hodges J. R. , Walsh C. , McKenna P. J. , Fletcher P. C.
Published: March 2009

Voltage-gated potassium channel antibody encephalopathy, a rare cause of limbic encephalopathy, typically presents with memory impairment and seizures. Psychiatric symptoms have not been emphasised in the literature. Here we describe a 58-year-old man who presented with panic attacks and psychogenic non-epileptic seizures and, later on, developed delusions and hallucinations and then confusion. He was found to have antibodies to voltage-gated potassium channels. Treatment with immuno-modulatory therapy resulted in almost complete recovery.
Mood switch in bipolar depression: comparison of adjunctive
venlafaxine, bupropion and sertraline
Authors: Post R. M. , Altshuler L. L. , Leverich G. S. , Frye M. A. , Nolen W A. , Kupka R. W. , Suppes T. , McElroy S. , Keck P. E. , Denicoff K. D. , Grunze H. , Walden J. , Kitchen C. M. R. , Mintz J.
Published: March 2009

Background

Few studies have examined the relative risks of switching into hypomania
or mania associated with second-generation antidepressant drugs in
bipolar depression.

Aims

To examine the relative acute effects of bupropion, sertraline and
venlafaxine as adjuncts to mood stabilisers.

Method

In a 10-week trial, participants receiving out-patient treatment for
bipolar disorder (stratified for rapid cycling) were randomly treated
with a flexible dose of one of the antidepressants, or their respective
matching placebos, as adjuncts to mood stabilisers.

Results

A total of 174 adults with bipolar disorder I, II or not otherwise
specified, currently in the depressed phase, were included. All three
antidepressants were associated with a similar range of acute response
(49–53%) and remission (34–41%). There was a significantly increased risk
of switches into hypomania or mania in participants treated with
venlafaxine compared with bupropion or sertraline.

Conclusions

More caution appears indicated in the use of venlafaxine rather than
bupropion or sertraline in the adjunctive treatment of bipolar
depression, especially if there is a prior history of rapid cycling.
Measuring memory impairment in community-based patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Al-Uzri M. M. , Reveley M. A. , Owen L. , Bruce J. , Frost S. , Mackintosh D. , Moran P. M.
Published: March 2009

Background

The majority of memory impairment studies in schizophrenia are cohort studies using laboratory-based tests, which make it difficult to estimate the true extent and relevance of memory impairment in patients with schizophrenia in the community.

Aims

To examine the extent of memory impairment in community-based patients with schizophrenia using a clinically relevant test.

Method

All patients with schizophrenia (n= 190) in one catchment area were identified, of whom 133 were potentially eligible for the study; 73 patients volunteered to take part. They were assessed using the Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test (RBMT), the National Adult Reading Test, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, the Health of the Nation Outcome Scales and the Office for National Statistics Classification of Occupation. Their performance on the memory test was compared with that of matched controls (n=71).

Results

Patients as a group performed significantly worse (P< 0.001) than controls on the RBMT. Using the RBMT normative scores, 81% of patients were found to have impaired memory compared with 28% of controls.

Conclusions

Using a clinically relevant test, the majority of community-based patients with schizophrenia may have memory impairment.
Socio-economic position and common mental disorders
Authors: Skapinakis Petros , Weich Scott , Lewis Glyn , Singleton Nicola , Araya Ricardo
Published: March 2009

Background

Individuals in lower socio-economic groups have an increased prevalence of common mental disorders.

Aims

To investigate the longitudinal association between socio-economic position and common mental disorders in a general population sample in the UK.

Method

Participants (n=2406) were assessed at two time points 18 months apart with the Revised Clinical Interview Schedule. The sample was stratified into two cohorts according to mental health status at baseline.

Results

None of the socio-economic indicators studied was significantly associated with an episode of common mental disorder at follow-up after adjusting for baseline psychiatric morbidity. The analysis of separate diagnostic categories showed that subjective financial difficulties at baseline were independently associated with depression at follow-up in both cohorts.

Conclusions

These findings support the view that apart from objective measures of socio-economic position, more subjective measures might be equally important from an aetiological or clinical perspective.
Gender differences in reoffending after discharge from
medium-secure units
Authors: Maden Anthony , Skapinakis Petros , Lewis Glyn , Scott Fiona , Burnett Rachel , Jamieson Elizabeth
Published: March 2009

Background

Previous research has shown that there are gender differences in
reoffending after discharge from medium-secure units, but these have not
been adequately explained.

Aims

To investigate gender differences in reoffending after discharge from
medium-secure psychiatric units.

Method

All people discharged from medium-secure units in England and Wales
between April 1997 and March 1998 were followed up for 1 year
(n=959; 12% women). Reoffending was estimated by
collecting reconviction data from the Home Office's Offenders' Index or
from files at the mental health unit up to 2 years after discharge.

Results

Women were less likely than men to be reconvicted within 2 years of
discharge (9% v. 16%, OR=0.49, 95% CI 0.25 – 0.98).
Adjustments for history of self-harm, drug or alcohol problems and
previous offending substantially reduced the gender difference. In the
full model the OR was 0.97 (95% CI 0.45–2.12).

Conclusions

Some or all of the gender differences in reoffending between men and
women are explained by self-harm, alcohol and drug problems and previous
criminal history.
Psychological effects of ketamine in healthy
volunteers
Authors: Pomarol-Clotet E. , Honey G. D. , Murray G. K. , Corlett P. R. , Absalom A. R. , Lee M. , McKenna P. J. , Bullmore E. T. , Fletcher P. C.
Published: March 2009

Background

The psychosis-inducing effect of ketamine is important evidence
supporting the glutamate hypothesis of schizophrenia. However, the
symptoms the drug produces have not been described systematically.

Aim

To examine the effects of ketamine in healthy people using a structured
psychiatric interview.

Method

Ketamine (200 ng/ml) or placebo was administered by continuous infusion
to 15 healthy volunteers. Symptoms were rated using the Present State
Examination, the Thought, Language and Communication Scale and the Scale
for Assessment of Negative Symptoms.

Results

Ketamine induced a range of perceptual distortions, but not
hallucinations. Referential ideas were seen in nearly half the sample.
There were only mild and infrequent ratings on the thought disorder
scale. Affective flattening and alogia were seen in some volunteers.

Conclusions

Ketamine does not reproduce the full picture of schizophrenia. The main
point of similarity concerns referential thinking. Phenomena resembling
negative symptoms are also seen, but the distinction of these from the
drug's sedative effects requires further elucidation.
Three decades of antidepressant, anxiolytic and hypnotic use in a national population birth cohort
Authors: Colman Ian , Wadsworth Michael E. J. , Croudace Tim J. , Jones Peter B.
Published: March 2009

Background

Psychotropic medication use is common and increasing. Use of such drugs at the individual level over long periods has not been reported.

Aims

To describe antidepressant, anxiolytic and hypnotic drug use, and associations between such medication use and common mental disorder, over a 22-year period.

Method

Questions about psychotropic medication use and symptoms of common mental disorder were asked of more than 3000 members of the 1946 British birth cohort at multiple time points between ages 31 and 53 years.

Results

Prevalence of any antidepressant, anxiolytic or hypnotic use increased significantly from 1977 (30.6 per 1000) to 1999 (59.1 per 1000) as the cohort aged. Less than 30% with mental disorder used antidepressants, anxiolytics or hypnotics. Previous use of antidepressant, anxiolytic or hypnotic was a strong predictor of future use during an episode of mental disorder (odds ratios 3.0–8.4); this association became weaker over time.

Conclusions

Pharmacotherapy is infrequently used by individuals with common mental disorder in Britain; this has not changed in the past three decades.
Risk factors for psychological and physical health problems
after a man-made disaster
Authors: Dirkzwager Anja J. E. , Grievink Linda , van der Velden Peter G. , Yzermans C. Joris
Published: March 2009

Background

There are few prospective studies on risk factors for health problems
after disasters in which actual pre-disaster health data are
available.

Aims

To examine whether survivors' personal characteristics, and pre-disaster
psychological problems, and disaster-related variables, are related to
their post-disaster health.

Method

Two studies were combined: a longitudinal survey using the electronic
medical records of survivors' general practitioners (GPs), from 1 year
before to 1 year after the disaster, and a survey in which questionnaires
were filled in by survivors, 3 weeks and 18 months after the disaster.
Data from both surveys and the electronic medical records were available
for 994 survivors.

Results

After adjustment for demographic and disaster-related variables,
pre-existing psychological problems were significantly associated with
post-disaster self-reported health problems and post-disaster problems
presented to the GP. This association was found for both psychological
and physical post-disaster problems.

Conclusions

In trying to prevent long-term health consequences after disaster, early
attention to survivors with pre-existing psychological problems, and to
those survivors who are forced to relocate or are exposed to many
stressors during the disaster, appears appropriate.
Emotional or educational debriefing after psychological trauma
Authors: Sijbrandij Marit , Olff Miranda , Reitsma Johannes B. , Carlier Ingrid V. E. , Gersons Berthold P. R.
Published: March 2009

Background

Recent studies show that individual single-session psychological debriefing does not prevent and can even aggravate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Aims

We studied the effect of emotional ventilation debriefing and educational debriefingv.no debriefing on symptoms of PTSD, anxiety and depression.

Method

We randomised 236 adult survivors of a recent traumatic event to either emotional ventilation debriefing, educational debriefing or no debriefing (control) and followed up at 2 weeks, 6 weeks and 6 months.

Results

Psychiatric symptoms decreased in all three groups over time, without significant differences between the groups in symptoms of PTSD (P=0.33). Participants in the emotional debriefing group with high baseline hyperarousal score had significantly more PTSD symptoms at 6 weeks than control participants (P=0.005).

Conclusions

Our study did not provide evidence for the usefulness of individual psychological debriefing in reducing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety and depression after psychological trauma.