bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The PACE study: Past-year prevalence of migraine in Parma’s adult general population
Authors: Ferrante Tullia , Castellini Paola , Abrignani Giorgia , Latte Lilia , Russo Marco , Camarda Cecilia , Veronesi Licia , Pasquarella Cesira , Manzoni Gian Camillo , Torelli Paola
Published: January 2012

Background: In the literature there are few data about the prevalence of primary headaches, including migraine, in the Italian general population. The PACE study (PArma CEfalea, or ‘Headache in Parma’) is an observational study aimed at detecting the prevalence and clinical features of primary headaches in the city of Parma’s adult general population.

Materials and methods: A total of 904 subjects representative of Parma’s adult general population were interviewed face-to-face by a physician from the Parma Headache Centre. They were given a specially designed and validated questionnaire for the diagnosis of primary headaches according to the ICHD-II criteria.

Results: Past-year adjusted prevalence of definite migraine, including migraine with and without aura and chronic migraine, was 24.7% (95% CI 21.9 to 27.5); 13% (95% CI 9.7 to 16.4) were men and 32.9% (95% CI 28.8 to 37.0) were women. Past-year prevalence of probable migraine was 5.1% (95% CI 3.6 to 6.5): 5.2% (95% CI 3.0 to 7.4) in men and 5% (95% CI 3.1 to 6.9) in women.

Conclusions: The high prevalence of definite migraine is the major difference between our results and the literature data. Such a difference in results may be due to the use of a different investigational approach compared with the other epidemiological studies. However, an actual higher frequency of migraine in the Italian general population cannot be excluded given the lack of studies on this topic.
Testing the Acceptance Model of Intuitive Eating With College Women Athletes
Authors: Oh Katharine Hahn , Wiseman Marcie C. , Hendrickson Jill , Phillips Julia C. , Hayden Eric W.
Published: January 2012

Intuitive eating is an adaptive eating style that involves eating for physical rather than emotional reasons, reliance on internal hunger and satiety cues, and lack of restriction in eating. In our study, the authors tested the acceptance model of intuitive eating with 160 college women athletes from Division I and Division II schools, using path analysis and controlling for body mass index. Similar to a previous study with general college women, the model provided an excellent fit to the data. These results support the hypothesis that perceived acceptance from others indirectly contributes to intuitive eating through college women athletes’ attitudes toward their bodies. For college women athletes, body acceptance by coaches, trainers, and teammates predicted athletes’ own body appreciation, which in turn, predicted their eating style. These findings suggest ways for coaches and counselors to help women athletes enhance their body appreciation and improve their eating. These results also indicate the need for researchers to further explore women athletes’ eating styles and attitudes toward their bodies.
Is Early Passive Motion Exercise Necessary After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair?
Authors: Kim Yang-Soo , Chung Seok Won , Kim Joon Yub , Ok Ji-Hoon , Park In , Oh Joo Han
Published: January 2012

Background: Early passive motion exercise has been the standard rehabilitation protocol after rotator cuff repair for preventing postoperative stiffness. However, recent approaches show that longer immobilization may enhance tendon healing and quality.

Purpose: To elucidate whether early passive motion exercise affects functional outcome and tendon healing after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods: One hundred five consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic repair for small to medium-sized full-thickness rotator cuff tears were included. Patients with large to massive tears and concomitant stiffness or labral lesions were excluded. Patients were instructed to wear an abduction brace for 4 to 5 weeks after surgery and to start active-assisted shoulder exercise after brace weaning. Fifty-six patients were randomly allocated into group 1: early passive motion exercises were conducted 3 to 4 times per day during the abduction brace-wearing period. Forty-nine patients were allocated into group 2: no passive motion was allowed during the same period. Range of motion (ROM) and visual analog scale (VAS) for pain were measured preoperatively and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Functional evaluations, including Constant score, Simple Shoulder Test (SST), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, were also evaluated at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging, or computed tomography arthrography was utilized to evaluate postoperative cuff healing.

Results: There were no statistical differences between the 2 groups in ROM or VAS for pain at each time point. Functional evaluations were not statistically different between the 2 groups either. The final functional scores assessed at 12 months for groups 1 and 2 were as follows: Constant score, 69.81 ± 3.43 versus 69.83 ± 6.24 ( P = .854); SST, 9.00 ± 2.12 versus 9.00 ± 2.59 ( P = .631); and ASES score, 73.29 ± 18.48 versus 82.90 ± 12.35 ( P = .216). Detachment of the repaired cuff was identified in 12% of group 1 and 18% of group 2 ( P = .429).

Conclusion: Early passive motion exercise after arthroscopic cuff repair did not guarantee early gain of ROM or pain relief but also did not negatively affect cuff healing. We suggest that early passive motion exercise is not mandatory after arthroscopic repair of small to medium-sized full-thickness rotator cuff tears, and postoperative rehabilitation can be modified to ensure patient compliance.
Treatment of Traumatic Anterior Shoulder Dislocation in Patients Older Than 60 Years
Authors: Shin Sang-Jin , Yun Yeo-Hon , Kim Dong Jun , Yoo Jae Doo
Published: January 2012

Background: The prevalence of traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation in the elderly population has increased; however, no consensus has been reached regarding the management of shoulder dislocations in elderly patients.

Purpose: This study investigated the clinical manifestations of traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation in patients older than 60 years and evaluated the functional outcomes of different treatment modalities based on associated abnormalities and the number of dislocations.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: Sixty-seven patients older than 60 at the time of primary shoulder dislocation were included. Magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasonography was performed on all patients to confirm associated injuries. Fifty-two patients were treated for primary shoulder dislocation and 15 for recurrent dislocation.

Results: Postinjury examinations revealed no associated injuries in 31 patients with primary shoulder dislocation; these patients recovered shoulder function after rehabilitation (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES] score: 93 ± 6; Constant score: 89 ± 8). For the other 36 patients, 33 were found to have rotator cuff tears (isolated cuff tears in 16), and 3 were found to have an isolated Bankart lesion. The average ASES score of the 17 patients with primary shoulder dislocation who were treated operatively was 83 ± 10, and the average Constant score was 78 ± 13 at final follow-up. The average ASES score of patients with recurrent shoulder dislocation was 89 ± 9, and the average Constant score was 84 ± 13. No statistically significant differences in functional shoulder outcomes between patients with primary and recurrent dislocation were evident ( P > .05). However, patients who were treated nonoperatively showed significantly better recovery of shoulder function than patients who were treated operatively regardless of the number of dislocations ( P < .001). No recurrent shoulder dislocation was observed in any patient during an average follow-up period of 55 months.

Conclusion: The accurate diagnosis of associated injuries after traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation in patients older than 60 is critical for the recovery of shoulder function because more than half of patients had rotator cuff tears or anterior capsulolabral lesions, which may lead to recurrent shoulder dislocation. Satisfactory clinical outcomes without recurrence were obtained after early detection of abnormalities and different treatment modalities based on associated injuries and the number of dislocations experienced.
The In Vitro Chondrotoxicity of Single-Dose Local Anesthetics
Authors: Dragoo Jason L. , Braun Hillary J. , Kim Hyeon Joo , Phan Huy D. , Golish S. Raymond
Published: January 2012

Background: The administration of amide-type local anesthetics to cartilaginous tissues has revealed potential chondrotoxicity.

Purpose: This study evaluated whether administration of single doses of 1% lidocaine, 0.25% bupivacaine, and 0.5% ropivacaine resulted in decreased chondrocyte viability or cartilage matrix degradation in vitro.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: Monolayer human chondrocytes and intact cartilage samples were cultured for 1 week in media. Each drug was delivered in a custom bioreactor over its clinical duration of action. A Live/Dead Viability/Cytotoxicity Assay was used to determine the ratio of dead to live cells for monolayer chondrocyte cultures compared with controls. Damage to the cartilage extracellular matrix (ECM) in en bloc cartilage samples was evaluated by analysis of DNA, glycosaminoglycan (GAG), and collagen content.

Results: Chondrocytes treated for 3 hours with a single dose of 1% lidocaine exhibited significantly more cell death (7.9%) compared with control media (2.9%; P < .001). No significant difference in cell death was observed in chondrocytes treated for 6 hours with 0.25% bupivacaine (2.7%) versus controls (2.8%; P = .856) or cells treated for 12 hours in 0.5% ropivacaine (2.9%) versus controls (2.4%; P = .084). There was no significant difference in GAG expression ( P = .627) or DNA-normalized GAG expression ( P = .065) between the intact cartilage treatment groups; however, the DNA-normalized GAG expression was markedly lower in cartilage cultures treated with 1% lidocaine (3.36 ± 1.15) compared with those in control media (7.61 ± 3.83).

Conclusion: The results of this in vitro study indicate that a single-dose administration of 1% lidocaine resulted in a significant decrease in chondrocyte viability when compared with control cultures.

Clinical Relevance: Single-dose injections of 1% lidocaine may be significantly chondrotoxic, and further investigation regarding in vivo chondrotoxicity appears warranted.
Epidemiology of Concussions Among United States High School Athletes in 20 Sports
Authors: Marar Mallika , McIlvain Natalie M. , Fields Sarah K. , Comstock R. Dawn
Published: January 2012

Background: In the United States (US), an estimated 300,000 sports-related concussions occur annually. Among individuals 15 to 24 years of age, sports are second only to motor vehicle crashes as the leading cause of concussions.

Purpose: To investigate the epidemiology of concussions in high school athletes by comparing rates and patterns of concussion among 20 sports.

Study Design: Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods: Using an Internet-based data collection tool, RIO, certified athletic trainers from a large, nationally disperse sample of US high schools reported athlete exposure and injury data for 20 sports during the 2008-2010 academic years.

Results: During the study period, 1936 concussions were reported during 7,780,064 athlete-exposures (AEs) for an overall injury rate of 2.5 per 10,000 AEs. The injury rate was higher in competition (6.4) than practice (1.1) (rate ratio [RR], 5.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.2-6.3). The majority of concussions resulted from participation in football (47.1%, n = 912), followed by girls’ soccer (8.2%, n = 159), boys’ wrestling (5.8%, n = 112), and girls’ basketball (5.5%, n = 107). Football had the highest concussion rate (6.4), followed by boys’ ice hockey (5.4) and boys’ lacrosse (4.0). Concussions represented a greater proportion of total injuries among boys’ ice hockey (22.2%) than all other sports studied (13.0%) (injury proportion ratio [IPR], 1.7; 95% CI, 1.4-2.1; P < .01). In gender-comparable sports, girls had a higher concussion rate (1.7) than boys (1.0) (RR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.4-2.0). The most common mechanisms of injury were player-player contact (70.3%) and player–playing surface contact (17.2%). In more than 40% of athletes in sports other than girls’ swimming and girls’ track, concussion symptoms resolved in 3 days or less. Athletes most commonly returned to play in 1 to 3 weeks (55.3%), with 22.8% returning in less than 1 week and 2.0% returning in less than 1 day.

Conclusion: Although interest in sports-related concussions is usually focused on full-contact sports like football and ice hockey, concussions occur across a wide variety of high school sports. Concussion rates vary by sport, gender, and type of exposure. An understanding of concussion rates, patterns of injury, and risk factors can drive targeted preventive measures and help reduce the risk for concussion among high school athletes in all sports.
Protective effect of vitamin E and epicatechin against nicotine-induced oxidative stress in rats
Authors: Al-Malki Abdulrahman L , Moselhy Said S
Published: January 2012

Nicotine is a major pharmacologically active and addictive component of tobacco smoke, which is regarded to be a primary risk factor in the development of cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases. Epicatechin is one of the most potent antioxidants present in the human diet. Particularly high levels of this compound are found in tea, apples and chocolate. It has been reported that tea extracts and/or its constituents have antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidative, antitumor and antimutagenic activities. Vitamin E is a major lipid-soluble antioxidant vitamin and free radical scavenger, presents as an integral component of cellular membranes and has important biological functions. The primary mechanism by which vitamin E is proposed to prevent cancer is through their antioxidant properties. The goal of this study is to evaluate the effect of epicatechin alone or combined with vitamin E in inhibiting the oxidative stress induced by nicotine in rats. Results obtained indicated that there was a significant elevation in the levels of malondialdhyde (MDA) in nicotine injected rats. The combined treatment (epicatechin + Vit E) group showed a potential reduction of these parameters more than individual treatment. The activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase were found significantly higher in combined treated than untreated rats. In nicotine group, a negative significant correlation between reduced glutathione and MDA ( r = −0.92) was observed. In conclusion, these results suggested that the supplementation of diet with epicatechin and vitamin E provided antioxidant defense with strong chemopreventive activity against nicotine-induced carcinogenesis.
Modulating effects of selenium in adrenal medulla of rats exposed to 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene
Authors: Talas Zeliha Selamoglu , Ozdemir Ilknur , Ates Burhan , Gok Yetkin , Yilmaz Ismet
Published: January 2012

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemopreventive potential of organoselenium compounds (Se I and Se II) in the well-established rat model treated with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA), by monitoring the extent of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) activity, adrenomedullin (ADM) level and total RNA level in adrenal medulla. Organic pollutants are the most important environmental factor for the biologic systems. DMBA exposure appears to be associated with a number of physiological disease processes.

Methods:

The effects of Se I and Se II compounds were investigated on TH activity, ADM and total RNA levels in adrenal medulla of rats exposed to DMBA.

Results:

TH activity, ADM and total RNA levels were found to be increased significantly due to the effect of DMBA ( p < 0.05). This increase was restricted in the Se I- and Se II-treated groups ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The present data showed that the organoselenium compounds may have important effects in the maintainance of homeostasis against stress induced by DMBA.
Biochemical and histopathological studies of the PTU-induced hypothyroid rat kidney with reference to the ameliorating role of folic acid
Authors: Salama Afrah F , Tousson Ehab , Ibrahim Wafaa , Hussein Wesam M
Published: January 2012

Thyroid hormones (THs) are essential for growth and development of the kidney. Also TH influences glomerular filtration and tubular functions. Hypothyroidism negative influences kidney function indirectly by affecting the cardiovascular system and the renal blood flow, and directly by affecting glomerular filtration, tubular functions and the structure of the kidney. The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in biochemical markers, oxidative stress parameter and histological changes in kidney of hypothyroid rats before and after treatment with folic acid. Hypothyroidism was induced for 6 weeks by the administration of propylthiouracil in drinking water. Urea and creatinine were measured to evaluate the changes in kidney function. Also malondialdehyde, nitrite, nitrate and other oxidative stress parameter were measured in serum and kidney tissue as indicators of oxidative damage. Kidney function and oxidative stress parameters in hypothyroid rats were significantly changed compared to those in control rats. Treatment with folic acid helps in improving the adverse effect of hypothyroidism; the histological study also confirms this finding.
Evaluation of nano-biphasic calcium phosphate ceramics for bone tissue engineering applications: In vitro and preliminary in vivo studies
Authors: Reddy Sujatha , Wasnik Samiksha , Guha Avijit , Kumar Jerald Mahesh , Sinha Arvind , Singh Shashi
Published: January 2012

Reconstruction of critical sized bone injuries is a major problem that continues to inspire the design of new materials and grafts. Natural ceramics (hydroxyapatite (HA) coralline HA, or synthetic HA) and β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) are being explored for use as scaffolds in bone tissue engineering, among several other materials. The present study evaluated the bone forming capacity of nanosize bioceramics synthesized in situ in poly-vinyl alcohol (PVA) with different ratios of HA and β-TCP; the Ca/P ratio was 1.62 for bioceramic P1, 1.60 for P2 and 1.58 for P3. Further osteogenesis in vitro with mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) acquired from different sources for osteogenesis in vitro and their bone healing properties in vivo were also evaluated. MSC isolated from human placenta, Wharton’s jelly from umbilical cord, fetal bone marrow and adipose tissue, cultured in the presence of nanosize bioceramic particles, were monitored for osteogenic differentiation. Placental cells showed the best osteogenic potential of the different MSC studied on the basis of expression of osteogenic markers. Complete regeneration of the damaged region was observed in vivo when MSC derived from placenta were used with nanoceramic (Ca/P ratio 1.58) in the experimental defect created in the femur of Wistar rats. Even small variation in the Ca/P ratio can alter the outcome of tissue constructs.
Nanofiber scaffold gradients for interfacial tissue engineering
Authors: Ramalingam Murugan , Young Marian F , Thomas Vinoy , Sun Limin , Chow Laurence C , Tison Christopher K , Chatterjee Kaushik , Miles William C , Simon Carl G
Published: January 2012

We have designed a 2-spinnerette device that can directly electrospin nanofiber scaffolds containing a gradient in composition that can be used to engineer interfacial tissues such as ligament and tendon. Two types of nanofibers are simultaneously electrospun in an overlapping pattern to create a nonwoven mat of nanofibers containing a composition gradient. The approach is an advance over previous methods due to its versatility – gradients can be formed from any materials that can be electrospun. A dye was used to characterize the 2-spinnerette approach and applicability to tissue engineering was demonstrated by fabricating nanofibers with gradients in amorphous calcium phosphate nanoparticles (nACP). Adhesion and proliferation of osteogenic cells (MC3T3-E1 murine pre-osteoblasts) on gradients was enhanced on the regions of the gradients that contained higher nACP content yielding a graded osteoblast response. Since increases in soluble calcium and phosphate ions stimulate osteoblast function, we measured their release and observed significant release from nanofibers containing nACP. The nanofiber-nACP gradients fabricated herein can be applied to generate tissues with osteoblast gradients such as ligaments or tendons. In conclusion, these results introduce a versatile approach for fabricating nanofiber gradients that can have application for engineering graded tissues.
Bactericidal effect of silver-reinforced carbon nanotube and hydroxyapatite composites
Authors: Afzal Mohammad Atif Faiz , Kalmodia Sushma , Kesarwani Pallavi , Basu Bikramjit , Balani Kantesh
Published: January 2012

Bacterial infection remains an important risk factor after orthopedic surgery. The present paper reports the synthesis of hydroxyapatite-silver (HA-Ag) and carbon nanotube-silver (CNT-Ag) composites via spark plasma sintering (SPS) route. The retention of the initial phases after SPS was confirmed by phase analysis using X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. Energy dispersive spectrum analysis showed that Ag was distributed uniformly in the CNT/HA matrix. The breakage of CNTs into spheroid particles at higher temperatures (1700℃) is attributed to the Rayleigh instability criterion. Mechanical properties (hardness and elastic modulus) of the samples were evaluated using nanoindentation testing. Ag reinforcement resulted in the enhancement of hardness (by ∼15%) and elastic modulus (∼5%) of HA samples, whereas Ag reinforcement in CNT, Ag addition does not have much effect on hardness (0.3 GPa) and elastic modulus (5 GPa). The antibacterial tests performed using Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus epidermidis showed significant decrease (by ∼65–86%) in the number of adhered bacteria in HA/CNT composites reinforced with 5% Ag nanoparticles. Thus, Ag-reinforced HA/CNT can serve as potential antibacterial biocomposites.
Sensation-Seeking Profiles and Personal Innovativeness in Information Technology
Authors: López-Bonilla Jesús Manuel , López-Bonilla Luis Miguel
Published: January 2012

Sensation seeking has been studied extensively. However, the study of sensation-seeking profiles is still very limited in the literature and even more so in the area of information and communication technology (ICT). The present study analyzes sensation seeking and the innovative behavior of individuals in the use of information technologies. This work explores the connection between two individual personality traits: sensation seeking (from a social psychology perspective) and personal innovativeness in ICT (from marketing and information systems perspectives). An empirical study was carried out on a sample of 819 university students. The authors have analyzed 12 profiles, which were obtained from the combination of the four traits of the Sensation-Seeking scale. The results confirmed the relationship between both constructs in three sensation-seeking profiles.
Minimal sufficient balance—a new strategy to balance baseline covariates and preserve randomness of treatment allocation
Authors: Zhao Wenle , Hill Michael D , Palesch Yuko
Published: January 2012

In many clinical trials, baseline covariates could affect the primary outcome. Commonly used strategies to balance baseline covariates include stratified constrained randomization and minimization. Stratification is limited to few categorical covariates. Minimization lacks the randomness of treatment allocation. Both apply only to categorical covariates. As a result, serious imbalances could occur in important baseline covariates not included in the randomization algorithm. Furthermore, randomness of treatment allocation could be significantly compromised because of the high proportion of deterministic assignments associated with stratified block randomization and minimization, potentially resulting in selection bias. Serious baseline covariate imbalances and selection biases often contribute to controversial interpretation of the trial results. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke recombinant tissue plasminogen activator Stroke Trial and the Captopril Prevention Project are two examples. In this article, we propose a new randomization strategy, termed the minimal sufficient balance randomization, which will dually prevent serious imbalances in all important baseline covariates, including both categorical and continuous types, and preserve the randomness of treatment allocation. Computer simulations are conducted using the data from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke recombinant tissue plasminogen activator Stroke Trial. Serious imbalances in four continuous and one categorical covariate are prevented with a small cost in treatment allocation randomness. A scenario of simultaneously balancing 11 baseline covariates is explored with similar promising results. The proposed minimal sufficient balance randomization algorithm can be easily implemented in computerized central randomization systems for large multicenter trials.
An urn based covariate adjusted response adaptive allocation design
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Uttam , Bhattacharya Rahul
Published: January 2012

An urn based covariate adjusted response adaptive allocation design with dichotomous responses is proposed incorporating the ordered nature of the covariate. The allocation procedure is assessed both numerically and theoretically. The performance of the allocation design is also investigated in a relevant hypothetical clinical trial.
Correlation of p63 Protein Expression With Histological Grade of Meningiomas
Authors: Mittal Suchi , Jain Deepali , Roy Subimal , Mehta Veer Singh
Published: January 2012

Prediction of tumor behavior in meningiomas based on morphological features alone remains difficult. Several immunohistochemical biomarkers have been proposed to assist conventional methods. However, no single immunohistochemical marker can unequivocally discriminate between benign and aggressive meningiomas. There is only 1 study available in the literature that correlates p63 expression with overall histological grade of the meningioma. The present study is undertaken to assess the correlation between p63 expression and histological grade of meningiomas. For this purpose, the authors studied and analyzed the immunohistochemical expression of p63 in 85 cases of meningioma, including WHO grade I (63), grade II (11), and grade III (11) cases. Correlation between histological grade and nuclear immunoreactivity to p63 antibody was performed. Furthermore, expression of p63 protein was correlated with short clinical follow-up and Ki-67 proliferation index. Among 85 patients analyzed, there were 61 women (71.7 %) and 24 men (28.2%) between 7 and 75 years old. Expression of p63 protein was found in 34.9% of grade I cases, but in grade II and III, 63.6% of cases each were immunoreactive. Correlation between histological grade and p63 immunoreactivity was significant ( P = .02). p63-positive grade I meningiomas did not show elevated Ki-67 index. The present study contradicts earlier reports because there are a considerable number of grade I meningiomas that express p63. Although p63 expression is significantly associated with higher histological grade of meningiomas, it may not be considered as a sole biomarker to assess aggressive behavior of the tumor.
p16ink4a Expression in Benign and Malignant Melanocytic Conjunctival Lesions
Authors: Zoroquiain Pablo , Fernandes Bruno F. , González Sergio , Novais Gustavo N. , Schalper Kurt A. , Burnier Miguel N.
Published: January 2012

Acquired conjunctival melanocytic lesions include nevi, primary acquired melanoses (PAMs), and melanomas. Conjunctival melanoma is a malignant melanocytic neoplasm with a high metastasis and mortality rate. Usually, the diagnosis can be achieved only with routine microscopic analysis, but in some cases, the samples are small or have artifacts. In these cases, complementary studies will be helpful, but currently, there are no well-understood or studied complementary methods. Objective. To analyze the immunohistochemical expression of p16 in conjunctival melanocytic lesions and to assess its potential for differentiating between benign and malignant melanocytic lesions. Methods. Immunohistochemical study against p16ink4a (p16) was performed on paraffin-embedded sections on 45 melanocytic lesions (9 melanomas, 19 nevi, and 2 PAMs with atypia and 15 without atypia). Expression was scored according to the German immunoreactive score (IRS). Results. Expression of p16 IRS differed between nevi, PAMs, and melanomas. The mean IRS for melanomas was 3.3 ± 1.8 and was lower than those for nevi (7.63 ± 3.24; P < .05), PAM with atypia (12 ± 0; P < .05), and PAM without atypia (11 ± 1.69; P < .05). Lesions with infiltration depths lower than 2 mm showed higher levels of p16. There were no differences between favorable and unfavorable locations. Conclusion. p16 Expression in conjunctival melanocytic lesions showed an expression similar to that in skin and seems to be a good marker to differentiate nevi and PAMs from melanomas. However, additional studies of larger series and follow-up are needed to confirm these findings.
A nonmonotone line search method and its convergence for unconstrained optimization
Authors: Cui Zhaocheng , Yang Zhenqi
Published: January 2012

In this paper, by using a forcing function and the reverse modulus of continuity of gradient, we propose a generalization and development of the nonmonotone line search method for unconstrained optimization problems. The global convergence property of the new method is established under some reasonable conditions that are weaker than those of the existing nonmonotone line search methods. Furthermore, the proof of convergence is simpler than other methods.
Intergenerational Continuity of Child Abuse Among Adolescent Mothers
Authors: Valentino Kristin , Nuttall Amy K. , Comas Michelle , Borkowski John G. , Akai Carol E.
Published: January 2012

Among the negative sequelae of child maltreatment is increased risk for continuity of maltreatment into subsequent generations. Despite acknowledgment in the literature that the pathways toward breaking the cycle of maltreatment are likely the result of dynamic interactions of risk and protective factors across multiple ecological levels, few studies have followed high-risk samples of maltreated and nonmaltreated parents over time to evaluate such processes. In the current investigation, exposure to community violence and authoritarian parenting attitudes were evaluated as predictors of the intergenerational continuity of abuse, and the moderating effect of African American race was examined. The sample included 70 mothers and their 18-year-old children, who have been followed longitudinally since the third trimester of the adolescent mothers’ pregnancy. Results revealed that among mothers with a child abuse history, higher exposure to community violence and lower authoritarian parenting attitudes were associated with increased risk for intergenerational continuity of abuse. The relation of authoritarian parenting attitudes to intergenerational continuity was moderated by race; the protective effects of authoritarian parenting were limited to the African American families only. The salience of multiple ecological levels in interrupting the intergenerational continuity of child abuse is discussed, and implications for preventive programs are highlighted.
Retrospective Assessment of ADHD Symptoms in Childhood
Authors: Kivisaari Sasa , Laasonen Marja , Leppämäki Sami , Tani Pekka , Hokkanen Laura
Published: January 2012

Objective:

To examine the discriminatory validity of the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS) and its five suggested subscales (Conduct Problems, Impulsivity Problems, Mood Difficulties, Inattention/Anxiety, Academic Concerns) in a Finnish sample.

Method:

WURS was administered to 114 adults, aged 18 to 55 years. Participants with ADHD ( n = 37) and dyslexia ( n = 36) were compared with healthy controls ( n = 41).

Results:

The ADHD group scored significantly higher than the control group on all subscales. Compared with the dyslexia group, the ADHD group did not differ in Mood Difficulties or Academic Concerns. Using the total score, the positive predictive value was .53 in this sample and only .21 when the prevalence of ADHD was taken into account.

Conclusion:

Three out of five domains of WURS are reliable indicators of ADHD. Domains with low discriminatory power, low general prevalence of ADHD, and other developmental disorders within the population decrease the accuracy.
Introduction to Special Series on College Students With ADHD
Authors: Weyandt Lisa L. , DuPaul George J.
Published: January 2012

Increasing empirical attention has been focused on college students with ADHD in recent years. In this special series, five studies are included that address psychosocial issues, comorbidity, and treatment of college students with ADHD. The nature and results of each study are briefly described. This special series of articles significantly advances our knowledge of critical issues with respect to psychosocial functioning, alcohol/substance use, comorbidity, and treatment of ADHD in college students.
ADHD as a Serious Risk Factor for Early Smoking and Nicotine Dependence in Adulthood
Authors: Matthies Swantje , Holzner Sebastian , Feige Bernd , Scheel Corinna , Perlov Evgeniy , Ebert Dieter , Tebartz van Elst Ludger , Philipsen Alexandra
Published: January 2012

Objective: Tobacco smoking and ADHD frequently co-occur. So far, the bulk of research on the ADHD-smoking comorbidity has been done in children with ADHD and nonclinical adult samples. To assess smoking habits in adults with ADHD, the authors used the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND). Method: In 60 adult outpatients, with an ADHD diagnosis according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed.; DSM-IV) criteria and 60 age- and gender-matched controls, smoking habits were assessed with the FTND. Results: The authors replicated earlier findings in children confirming a higher rate of smokers in the ADHD group. The adult smokers with ADHD suffered from more severe nicotine dependence and smoked significantly more often when being sick. Females with ADHD smoked significantly more often and started smoking at an earlier age. Conclusion: Applying the FTND, the authors confirmed a high rate of highly dependent smokers among adult ADHD patients. The authors’ findings point to a higher vulnerability for the development of nicotine dependence in women with ADHD.
Lack of Association of Handedness With Inattention and Hyperactivity Symptoms in ADHD
Authors: Ghanizadeh Ahmad
Published: January 2012

Objective: Findings about the association of left-handedness and ADHD are inconsistent. While abnormal brain laterality is reported in children with ADHD, it is unclear if hand preference is associated with ADHD, severity symptoms, age, gender, comorbid psychiatric problems, or parental characteristics. Method: Subjects were 520 boys and girls with a mean age of 9.04 (2.3) years. Only four children were with mixed-handedness. ADHD was diagnosed according to clinical assessment using accepted diagnostic criteria. In addition to the demographic characteristics and hand-use preference, inattention severity, hyperactivity severity, oppositional behavior symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and developmental coordination problems were assessed. Results: A total of 87.4% were right handed. A total of 12.6% were left handed. Left- or right-hand preference was not associated with age, gender, inattentiveness score, hyperactivity-impulsivity score, comorbid psychiatric problems, developmental coordination problems score, or parental characteristics. Conclusion: Left handedness is not associated with higher parent-reported inattentiveness or hyperactivity. Hand-use preference is not gender related in ADHD.
Psychostimulant and Sensory Stimulation Interventions That Target the Reading and Math Deficits of Students With ADHD
Authors: Zentall Sydney S. , Tom-Wright Kinsey , Lee Jiyeon
Published: January 2012

Objective: The purpose of this review of students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was to summarize the following: (1) academic deficits in math and reading, (2) possible theoretical contributors to these deficits, and (3) psychostimulant interventions that target math and reading, as well as, parallel interventions involving sensory stimulation. Method: A comprehensive examination of the literature was conducted on children with ADHD with and without co-occurring disabilities, summarizing their reading and math achievement and the effects of psychostimulant and sensory stimulant interventions on these academic areas. Results: Students without co-occurring disabilities (ADHD-) had fewer deficits in reading than in math and than students with co-occurring disabilities (ADHD+). Furthermore, students with ADHD+ demonstrated greater responsiveness to psychostimulants through improved reading recognition and math calculations, with limited gains in literal reading comprehension. Added sensory stimulation produced differential gains for both groups in reading recognition and comprehension and in math calculations and problem solving. Conclusion: The efficacy of psychostimulants was documented on specific areas of achievement for the ADHD+ group, but this review did not support the administration of psychostimulants for students with ADHD-. For both groups of students, differential gains, losses, and habituation were documented in response to sensory stimulation for both subareas within reading and math, which were interpreted as support for the optimal stimulation theory.
How Experience Shapes Health Beliefs
Authors: Shahrabani Shosh , Benzion Uri
Published: January 2012

This study examines the impact of past experience with influenza and the influenza vaccine on four categories of the Health Belief Model: beliefs about susceptibility to contracting influenza, severity of illness, perceived benefits of the vaccine in preventing influenza, and perceived barriers to getting vaccinated. The study population comprised employees at different workplaces in Israel. The results indicate that individuals who took flu shots in the past perceived higher levels of benefits from the vaccine and lower barriers to getting the vaccine than those who had not been vaccinated. In addition, those who had influenza over the last 2 years exhibited higher levels of perceived susceptibility and lower levels of perceived benefits from the vaccine. These results imply that an individual’s health beliefs regarding the flu vaccine can be changed as a result of accumulated experience with the illness and the vaccine. Therefore, recommendations for first-time vaccination may have implications on decisions to be vaccinated over the long run.
The Impact of Property Assessment Standards on Property Tax Burden
Authors: Payton Seth B.
Published: January 2012

Property tax is a tax on estimated values rather than on transactions—an important distinction from other taxes. Another distinction is that each state develops its own system for administering the property tax, including how properties are assessed. The consensus among scholars is that current market value assessment is the standard for achieving the most fair and equitable property tax burden. This study compares two disparate assessment standards in one urban county, analyzing potential determinants of systematic bias. The findings indicate that less systematic bias exists under the market value standard, but that the overall equity is only marginally better horizontally and tended toward a more regressive tax structure. A market value assessment standard may mitigate the inherent inequity (i.e., systematic bias) in a nonmarket value system. However, the inequities in the market value system, which may be less predictable, still must be monitored and addressed.
Immunogenic effects of recombinant interferon-beta therapy disrupt the JAK/STAT pathway in primary immune cells from patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gavasso S , Gjertsen BT , Anderssen E , Myhr KM , Vedeler C
Published: January 2012

Background:

Immunogenicity of recombinant interferon-β (IFN-β) is a known complication in the therapy of relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) that can interfere with efficacy are quantified using in vitro bioassays; however, these assays do not reveal the immunogenic state of the patient and are not predictive of treatment outcome.

Objective:

Assessment of the impact of NAbs on IFN-β responsive cells and signalling pathways in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with phospho-specific flow cytometry.

Method:

PBMCs from 10 IFN-β-treated patients with RRMS, two untreated patients, and two healthy controls were re-stimulated in autologous sera and media with a serial dilution of IFN-β (0–8000 U/ml) and levels of phosphorylation of STAT1/3/4/5/6 transcription factors were quantified in PBMC subtypes (NAb titres 0 to > 6000 neutralizing units). Data was subjected to principal component analysis, Hotelling’s T2, and partial least squares analysis.

Results:

Three significantly distinct clusters of individuals were revealed in autologous sera: therapy-naïve and healthy, treated NAb-negative, and treated NAb-positive. Compared with controls STATs signalling patterns were modulated in treated NAb-negative patients and inhibited in all treated NAb-positive patients independently of NAb titres. In media no clustering of patients could be found. The predictability of NAb titres based on the phospho-flow data was 74%.

Conclusion:

Phospho-specific flow cytometry can delineate subset-specific cell responses that can act as surrogates for NAb exposure in blood. Immunogenic effects alter the response in primary cells even at low NAb levels. Cell line-based immunogenicity testing is not readily transferable to the immunogenic response in patients.
A systems relations model for Tier 2 early intervention child mental health services with schools: An exploratory study
Authors: van Roosmalen Marc , Gardner-Elahi Catherine , Day Crispin
Published: January 2012

Over the last 15 years, policy initiatives have aimed at the provision of more comprehensive Child and Adolescent Mental Health care. These presented a series of new challenges in organising and delivering Tier 2 child mental health services, particularly in schools. This exploratory study aimed to examine and clarify the service model underpinning a Tier 2 child mental health service offering school-based mental health work. Using semi-structured interviews, clinician descriptions of operational experiences were gathered. These were analysed using grounded theory methods. Analysis was validated by respondents at two stages. A pathway for casework emerged that included a systemic consultative function, as part of an overall three-function service model, which required: (1) activity as a member of the multi-agency system; (2) activity to improve the system working around a particular child; and (3) activity to universally develop a Tier 1 workforce confident in supporting children at risk of or experiencing mental health problems. The study challenged the perception of such a service serving solely a Tier 2 function, the requisite workforce to deliver the service model, and could give service providers a rationale for negotiating service models that include an explicit focus on improving the children’s environments.
I wish I could tell you but I can’t: Adolescents with perinatally acquired HIV and their dilemmas around self-disclosure
Authors: Hogwood Jemma , Campbell Tomás , Butler Stephen
Published: January 2012

Many young people growing up with HIV are choosing not to disclose their status to others, yet are likely to face difficult decisions and conversations such as explaining school absence, taking medication, coping with physical changes and for many, parental bereavement. This study aims to describe and explore the attitudes and opinions of adolescents with perinatally acquired HIV towards disclosure. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine young people aged 13–19 and analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Four themes emerged to illuminate the young people’s attitudes towards disclosure. These were 1) myths and assumptions, 2) the disclosure dilemma, 3) fear and 4) keeping HIV in its place. This study confirms that many young people with HIV are choosing not to disclose. However, it appears that it is a complex decision-making process that changes over time and is influenced by developmental factors and societal attitudes towards HIV. Recommendations are suggested for services to better support adolescents growing up with HIV.
Effect of angiotensin type 2 receptor over-expression on the rat mesangial cell fibrotic phenotype: effect of gender
Authors: Pawluczyk Izabella ZA , Harris Kevin PG
Published: January 2012

Background and aim: The protective role of angiotensin type 2 receptors (AT2-Rs) is still controversial. As AT2-Rs are minimally expressed in adult tissues the aim of the current study was to over-express AT2-Rs in rat mesangial cells in order to ascertain their potential role in modulating renal scarring.

Methods: Male and female mesangial cells were transiently transfected with AT2-R or control vector then ‘injured’ with macrophage-conditioned medium (MCM). Culture supernatants and extracted RNA were analysed for evidence of an anti-fibrotic phenotype.

Results: Supernatant fibronectin levels in female mesangial cells treated with MCM were reduced in AT2-R transfected cells ( p < 0.001) compared to controls. AT2-R transfected male cells showed a trend towards lower constitutive fibronectin levels. There was no effect of AT2-R transfection on TGF-β or TNF-α secretion; however, IL-1β levels were reduced in male cells treated with MCM. RT-PCR demonstrated that constitutive kallikrein mRNA levels were suppressed in both male and female AT2-R transfected cells. Bradykinin receptors (BkB2-R and BkB1-R) were unaffected in female cells although the BkB1-R was upregulated in male cells treated with MCM.

Conclusion: This data provides a case for AT2 receptors playing a protective role in rat mesangial cells independent of the effects of blood pressure control.
Engaged Ethnography and the Story(ies) of the Anti-Sweatshop Movement
Authors: Clair Robin Patric
Published: January 2012

The purpose of the present study is to conceptualize engagement as both theoretical and methodological in relation to social movements. Theoretically, engagement is seen as central to activism and is addressed as a complex ontological and teleological phenomenon in relation to social movements. Methodologically, engagement is addressed in terms of (a) the role of the researcher, (b) the perspective espoused by the researcher, (c) how and why the researcher enters into and enacts with the cultural phenomenon, (d) how the researcher tends to the subjects and (e) how the researcher presents the story. This methodological approach is referred to as engaged ethnography. The main story (and history) of the contemporary antisweatshop movement as well as embedded stories of the movement, especially as they unfold at Purdue University (e.g., stories of the researcher’s background, and stories surrounding various strategies like, hunger strikes, bringing activists from the Dominican Republic to campus, and giving yellow roses to the president, or not) are provided and discussed according to the concept of engagement.