bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Change in circadian cortisol rhythmicity in patients with intracranial tumour
Authors: Bellastella Antonio , Criscuolo Tullio , Sinisi Antonio Agostino , Mango Antonio , Mignini Raniero , Iorio Sergio , Parlato Filomena , Smisi Antonia Maria , Faggiano Michelangelo 
Published: July 2017

To verify the influence of intracranial expanding processes on circadian cortisol rhythm, we studied its occurrence in 10 normal subjects, in 5 patients with extrasellar tumour, and in 3 patients with intracranial haematoma. All patients were tested every 4 h. Cortisol was measured by RIA. A cosine function was fitted to the data by mean cosinor method to evidence any rhythm and its parameters. A significant circadian rhythm was detected in the normal subjects with acrophase at 07.55 (07.15–08.25). The patients with extrasellar tumour and those with intracranial haematoma showed a lack of circadian rhythmicity due to a significant increase of cortisol levels at 20.00 and at 00.00, respectively. Our results suggest that study of the cortisol rhythm is useful, especially when an extrasellar tumour is suspected. Nous avons étudié le rythme circadien du cortisol plasmatique RIA chez 10 sujets normaux, chez 5 sujets atteints de tumeur entre-cranien extrasellaire et 3 sujets atteints d'hématome entre-cranien. Les données obtenues ont été élaborées avec le méthode du Cosinor. Une périodicite circadienne normale a été relevée chez les sujets normaux, avec acrophase à 07.55 (07.15–08.25). Les patients porteurs d'un tumeur extrasellaire et ceux-là atteints d'hématome entre-cramen montraient un remarquable accroissement des taux de cortisol plasmatique à 20.00 et à 00.00h respectivement sans un rythme circadien significatif. Nos résultats soulignent l'importance de l'étude du rythme circadien du cortisol dans la pathologie entre-cranienne extrasellaire. E’ stato studiato il ritmo circadiano del cortisolo plasmatico RIA in 10 soggetti normali, in 5 pazienti con tumore cerebrale extrasellare ed in 3 pazienti con ematoma intracranico. I dati ottenuti sono stati elaborati secondo la metodica del single e mean cosinor. Una normale periodicità circadiana è stata evidenziata nei soggetti normali con acrofase alle 07.55 (07.15–08.25). I pazienti con tumore extrasellare e quelli con ematoma intracranico hanno mostrato un notevole incremento dei livelli di cortisolo alle 20.00 ed alle 00.00 rispettivamente senza un ritmo circadiano significativo. I risultati ottenuti sottolineano il valore dello studio del ritmo circadiano del cortisolo per la patologia espansiva intracranica extrasellare.
Regulation of cerebral kynurenine and 5-hydroxyindole pathways during tryptophan loading
Authors: Rizza Victor , Bousquet Ennio , Guerrera Franco , De Regis Massimo 
Published: July 2017

Cerebral tryptophan metabolism was studied in rat brain slices. The results show that serotonin production was inhibited at high levels of tryptophan or 5-oxo-l-prolyltryptophan. In contrast, kynurenine formation showed a dose dependent increase at the various concentrations of tryptophan or 5-oxo-l-prolyltryptophan. Measurements of the activities of tryptophan hydroxylase (TH) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDOase) in crude brain homogenates showed that serotonin formation was linear in the presence of dithiothreitol, whereas kynurenine production was inhibited in the presence of diothiothreitol or superoxide dismutase. These results suggest an inverse relationship in the regulation of 5-hydroxyindole and kynurenine pathways. The former being inhibited in the presence of high tryptophan concentration while the latter is enhanced. Furthermore, a high intracellular thiol-disulphide ratio appears to favour serotonin formation, whereas a highly reducing environment decreases kynurenine production. Nous avons étudié le métabolisme du Trp au mayer de sections de tissu cérébral de rat. Nos résultats montrent que la production de 5-HT est inhibie à hautes concentrations de Trp ou de 5-oxo-l-prolyltryptophane. Au contraire, la production de Kynurenine augmente par rapport à ces concentrations. L'évaluation de l'activité de la TH et de la IDO ase démontre que la production de 5-HT augmente de façon linéaire en presence de di-thio-theréitole tandis que la production de Kinurénine ed inhibite en présence de di-thio-thréitole on super-oxide dismuntase. Ces résultats suggérent une relation inverse dous la régulation du métabolisme du 5-hydroxi-indole er de la Kynurénine: le premier est inhibie en presence de hautes concentrations de Trp tandis que la deuxiéme est stimulée. En ontre, un haut rapport intracellular thide-disulphide semble favoriser la production de 5-HT tandis que une ambiance fort réduisant abaisse la production de Kynurénine. Abbiamo studiato il metabolismo del Trp in sezioni di tessuto cerebrale di ratto. Dai risultati emerge che la produzione di 5-HT viene inibita da alte concentrazioni di Trp o di 5-oxo-l-proliltriptofano. Viceversa la produzione di Kynurenina mostra un incremento dose-dipendente. La valutazione dell-attività della TH e della IDO asi dimostra che la produzione di 5-HT aumenta linearmente in presenza di ditiotreitolo mentre la produzione di Kynurenina viene inibita in presenza di ditiotreitolo o superossido dismutasi. Questi risultati suggeriscono una relazione inversa nella regolazione delle vie metaboliche del 5-idrossi-indolo e della Kynurenina: la prima viene inibita in presenza di alte concentrazioni di Trp, mentre la seconda è potenziata. Inoltre, un alto rapporto intracellulare tiolo-disulfide sembra favorire la produzione di 5-HT mentre un ambiente fortemente riducente abbassa la produzione di Kynurenina.
A Social Problem Index for Canada
Authors: Thomp son An gus H , Howard An drew W , Jin Yan 
Published: July 2017

Objective: To con struct an in dex that rep re sents the gen eral level of so cial prob lems among Ca na dian prov inces and ter ri to ries. Method: Fac tor weights were used to com bine pro vin cial and ter ri to rial rates for ho mi cide, at tem pted mur der, as sault, sex ual assault, rob bery, di vorce, sui cide, and al co hol ism into a sin gle So cial Prob lem In dex. Results: The re sult ing in dex dem on strated strong pos i tive intercorrelations among its fac tors across prov inces. That is, prov inces that showed high rates on one fac tor tended to show high rates on the oth ers as well. The va lidity of the So cial Prob lem In dex is dem on strated by its pos i tive cor re la tion with an in de pend ent mea sure of the like li hood o f hav ing ex pe ri enced per sonal trauma. Conclusions: The ro bust na ture and ap par ent va lid ity of the So cial Prob lem In dex sug gest that it can be well used for needs a ssess ments and the o ret i cal stud ies and as a feed back mech a nism to na tional, pro vin cial, and com mu nity lead ers on the so cial problem sta tus of their par tic u lar ju ris dic tions.
A Follow-up Study of Patients with DSM-IV Schizophreniform Disorder
Authors: Iancu Iulian , Dannon Pinhas N , Ziv Reuven , Lepkifker Elie 
Published: July 2017

Background: Schizo phreni form dis or der (SFD) has an un clear di ag nos tic and prog nos tic status within the psy chotic spec trum. Method: We stud ied 36 in pa tients ad mit ted to our ward be tween 1983 and 1993 due to SFD. The pa tients were con tacted an av er age of 12 years af ter in dex hos pi tali za tion, and we noted the course of their ill ness, as well as their pres ent di ag no sis. Results: Of the sam ple, 84% had ad di tional, mostly psy chotic, epi sodes dur ing the follow-up, and 70% had di ag no ses in the schizo phrenic spec trum (that is, schizo phre nia and schizoaf fec tive dis or der). A sur vival analy sis re vealed that con fu sion and the pres ence of at least 2 good prog nos tic fac tors (GPF) at in dex hos pi tali za tion pre dicted bet ter out come. Conclusions: SFD seems to be an early mani fes ta tion of schizo phre nia. Only a few of those sam pled did not ex pe ri ence ad di tional re lapses—a pes si mis tic find ing at 12-year follow- up. The find ings of this study ac cord with DSM- IV cri te ria and the lit era ture regard ing the long- term prog no sis of SFD and the im por tance of the GPF.
The Moderating Effects of Coping Strategies on Major Depression in the General Population
Authors: Wang JianLi , Pat ten Scott B 
Published: July 2017

Objectives: To evaluate the moderating effects of various coping strategies on the as sociation between stressors and the prevalence of major depression in the general population. Methods: Subjects from the Alberta buy- incomponent of the 1994 –1995 National Population Health Survey (NPHS) were included in the analysis ( n = 1039). Each subject was asked 8 questions about coping strategies that dealt with unexpected stress from family problems and personal crises. Major depression was measured using the World Health Organization's (WHO) Composite International Diagnostic Interview-Short Form (CIDI- SF) for major depression. The im pacts of coping strategies in relation to psychological stres sors on the prevalence of major depression were de ter mined by examining interactions between coping and life stress on major depression using logistic regression modelling. Results: No robust impact of coping strategies in relation to various categories of stress evaluated in the NPHS was observed. There was evidence that the use of “pray and seek religious help” and “talks to others about the situations” as coping strategies by women moderated the risk of major depression in the presence of financial stress and relation ship stress (with a partner). Using emotional expression as a coping strategy by women might de crease the risk of major depression in the presence of 1 or more re cent life events, personal stress, relationship stress (with a partner), and environmental stress. Conclusion: Different coping strategies may have a differential impact on the prevalence of major depression in specific circumstances. These findings may be important both to prevent and to treat depressive disorders.
Spirituality and Psychiatry in Canada: Psychiatric Practice Compared with Patient Expectations
Authors: Baetz Marilyn , Griffin Ron , Bowen Rudy , Marcoux Gene 
Published: July 2017

Objective: This study compares psychiatrists' and psychiatric patients' practice, attitudes, and expectations regarding spirituality and religion. Method: We mailed surveys to all Canadian psychiatrists registered with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada ( n = 2890). The response rate was 42% ( n = 1204). We recruited patients from a Canadian on-line survey ( n = 67) and from a local mental health clinic ( n = 90). Results: Psychiatrists had lower levels of beliefs and practices than did patients and the general population. In both groups, 47% felt there was “often or always” a place to include spirituality in psychiatric assessment, although the perceived importance differed. Among patients, 53% felt it important to have this issue addressed, and 24% considered the psychiatrist's spiritual interest important in their choice of psychiatrist. Barriers to addressing the issue of spirituality and mental health related to psychiatrists' concern regarding its appropriateness and patients' perception that interest is lacking. Psychiatrists' own beliefs and practices were strong predictors of spiritual inquiry. Conclusions: Although psychiatrists report lower levels of spiritual and religious belief than do patients, they acknowledge that it is important to include this topic in patient care. Increased discussion and education may lower reported barriers to including spirituality and religion in routine psychiatric assessment.
Antidepressant Treatment of Depression: A Metaanalysis
Authors: Joffe Russell , Sokolov Stephen , Streiner David 
Published: July 2017

Objective: To carry out a metaanalysis of antidepressant studies to calculate the effect sizes for antidepressant effect in depressive disorder. Method: A metaanalysis of all antidepressant studies that included an active comparison drug as well as placebo was used to calculate the effect size. Articles were selected from a MEDLINE search for the period January 1966 to June 1995. Forty-nine studies were included in the metaanalysis. Results: The effect sizes for antidepressant treatment are moderately larger than for placebo. A larger effect size was observed in studies where objective diagnostic criteria for depression were used. Conclusions: We conclude that the superior efficacy of antidepressants over placebo can be demonstrated.
Familial Dementia of Frontal Lobe Type
Authors: Wong Albert HC , van Tol Hubert HM , Schoots Oscar , Shugar Gerald 
Published: July 2017

Objective: To describe an unusual case of familial frontal lobe dementia (FLD) with probable spongiform encephalopathy (SE). Method: The patient's clinical presentation, neuropsychological test results, family history, and results on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) scans, among other routine investigations, are described. His leucocyte deoxyriboneucleic acid (DNA) was isolated, and his Prp (prion protein) gene was amplified with the polymerase chain reaction and sequenced using the Sanger method. Results: Clinically, the patient had a presenile frontal lobe dementia. Four of the 8 members of the generation preceding the patient had presenile dementia. Autopsies performed on 2 of these cases revealed SE, and a pathological diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) was made. One other member of that generation died of a limbic encephalitis, although the neuropathological findings were atypical. Sequencing of the patient's Prp gene did not reveal the abnormalities expected in a familial case of CJD. The results of other investigations were compatible with FLD but were not specific to a particular diagnosis. Conclusions: This case is a novel type of SE. The patient presented clinically with FLD, but based on the family history and neuropathology, a diagnosis of prion dementia seems likely. There were no mutations found in the Prp gene, so it is possible that there are SEs caused by genes or other pathological processes unrelated to the Prp gene.
Transient Thermoelastic Analysis of Composite Brake Disks
Authors: Sonn H. W. , Kim C. G. , Hong C. S. , Yoon B. I. 
Published: July 2017

This paper presents a modeling analysis of transient thermoelastic behavior occurring in composite brake disks. A finite element code was developed which allowed an effective investigation of the transient thermoelastic analysis. The coupled heat and elastic analysis was done using the finite element method differently from other previous researches. The result of the finite element analysis presented the pressure distributions and the temperature distributions along the friction surfaces, and heat flux vectors for the present model. The thermoelastic state on any friction surface affected the other friction surfaces each other. Thus, the whole modeling of brake disks was necessary for accurate results. The orthotropic brake disks showed better characteristics as a brake friction material than the isotropic ones. Since the composite multiple brake disk system showed the larger contact region of the friction surfaces, the smoother heat flow through the contact interfaces took place. Therefore, the more uniform and lower temperatures and the milder pressure distributions along the friction surfaces than the isotropic multiple brake disk system was caused.
BioMatrix Lift — Tissue Regeneration in the Surgical Rejuvenation of the Midface and Aging Periorbita
Authors: Henley Julian , Fattal Michael 
Published: July 2017

Introduction: Standard face-lift and blepharoplasty techniques historically have been of limited benefit in the midface, nasolabial folds, temporal periorbita, and orbital trough. Over the years, these challenging areas have been addressed with customized repositioning surgical maneuvers. The use of a new bioactive tissue matrix in conjunction with these maneuvers is a new approach to treating these challenging problems. Materials and Methods: Fifteen patients were treated with a combination of esthetic facial surgery and tissue regeneration matrix over 2 years by the senior author (J. H.). Preoperatively, all procedures were explained to the patients and written consent was obtained. During these procedures, the Biodesign tissue generation matrix was used to provide both supportive and volumetric expansion in a variety of areas of the face and neck for purposes of volumetric enhancement, neck suspension, and in one case for carotid artery coverage. The implant was soaked in sterile normal saline for no longer than 5 minutes to provide rehydration. The shape of the implant used was determined at the time of implantation based on the surgical need. Results: In total, 15 patients received the Biomatrix implantation in various areas. The results have been esthetically pleasing to both the surgeon and the patients, and complications have been minimal. While no attempt for quantitative volumetric analysis was made, this report provides photographic examples of the unique results that have been observed in surgical areas previously not well addressed with other techniques. Conclusions: By combining established methods of tissue lifting and reposition with strategic tissue replenishment and suspension, the benefits of facial surgery can be expanded beyond the prior limitations of surgery alone. The use of the biologic matrix to provide volumetric expansion in areas of volume loss due to aging is a robust, reliable, and safe adjunct to traditional cosmetic surgical procedures of the face.
Acne Keloidalis Nuchae: Surgical Management with Electrosection and Second-Intention Healing
Authors: Carqueville Jordan C. , Engel George H. , Engasser Holly C. 
Published: July 2017

Introduction: Acne keloidalis nuchae is a frustrating disorder for both patient and physician when it is refractory to nonsurgical treatment options. Excision with adjuvant steroid injection is an accepted standard treatment for extensive or intractable lesions. However, surgical excision at this vascular anatomic region can be a tedious and bloody procedure. Repairs with grafting and flaps usually lead to less than satisfactory cosmetic results. We describe a surgical technique for refractory acne keloidalis nuchae that provides a clean and relatively bloodless surgical field and leaves the patient with cosmetically pleasing results. Materials and Methods: Nine patients with refractory occipital scalp and/or posterior neck acne keloidalis nuchae were treated with electrosection, using a blended cut and coagulation current on the Conmed Sabre 2400 electrosurgical unit. Healing was by second intention; no grafting or flaps were used. The surgical excision was followed by monthly postoperative intralesional triamcinolone acetonide (40 mg) injections for 3 months. Results: All 9 patients experienced excellent cosmetic results, and there was no evidence of recurrence during follow-up periods ranging from 2 to 21 months. Intraoperative bleeding was minimal, maintaining a clear operating field for the surgeon. Postoperative pain was controlled with acetaminophen alone or acetaminophen with codeine or hydrocodone. Conclusions: Electrosection with second-intention healing is a quick and effective technique for treating refractory acne keloidalis nuchae that yields excellent aesthetic results.
Gorbachev'S Asia-Pacific Security and its Implications for the South Asian Regional State System
Authors: Paranjpe Shrikant 
Published: July 2017

The developing and changing international scene since the world wars has highlighted two facts on the part of nation-states as actors in the environment: One, the constant need for an effective and acceptable “governing image” and two, the construction or resetting of values, goals or structures so as to collaborate with the governing image of the times. The governing image is essentially international in character, though created by a nation or a group of nations as a world view projection and the adjustments to the international environment. In concrete terms, the post-war world has been dominated by such images as bi-polarity, containment, liberation, socialist international or nonalignment. While alliances have been a product of most of these, the last, nonalignment, emerged as an alternative world view of the then periphery powers. The situation started to change in the 1970s. Economic power and political influence became more diffuse. The utility of military force to achieve political influence reduced. Success in cases of controlled uses of military power also became problematic. United States' Vietnam and Soviet Union's Afghanistan are cases illustrative enough. The decline of Super Power capability to use their will throughout the international arena is becoming increasingly evident. The world today is entering into what has been described as a ‘post-post war era’. In this era the United States and the USSR are still major powers that have continued to retain their lethal military capabilities. The INF Pact nevertheless, both the powers continue to hold a significant strategic force capability. Yet, the range of their political influence is in fact contracting. The Soviets are pulling out of Afghanistan, Namibian probem has been resolved; there have also been no ‘interventions’ in Burma, in the Maldives or in Eastern Europe. One may argue that the Soviet Union is going through a phase of rest and recuperation under Gorbachev'sperestroika and that the United States has already overreached itself. The fact remains that in the post-post war era there are no longer empty spaces between the United States and the USSR that need filling up. There are powers in those areas. The focus today has shifted to the regional powers and the regional state systems that they have evolved.
Placement Opportunities for Human Factors Engineering and Ergonomics Professionals
Authors: Moroney William F. , Anderson Brian M. , Soest Jennifer I. 
Published: July 2017

During the period from November 1995 through October 1996, the Placement Service of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society distributed announcements describing 195 positions available for human factors engineers and ergonomics professionals. This paper describes placement opportunities for HFE and ergonomics professionals in industry, government/military and consulting positions (N=162), while an overview of all advertised positions, and a description of academic (N=8) and internship positions (N=25) is provided in Part I (Moroney, Proulx & Parker, 1997). The attributes of the position descriptions examined include: degree requirements, major field of study, industrial sector, areas of expertise, required work experience, salary, geographic location, job description and skills required. Fifty-seven percent of the positions describe the masters degree as the minimum requirement, with 18% of the opportunities in the consulting sector. The area of expertise most frequently requested (69%) was HCI, with test and evaluation (specifically usability testing) being specified for 44% of the positions. The most frequently cited (35%) primary area of responsibility was interface design.