bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of pertussis immunity status in schoolchildren immunized with whole-cell vaccine
Authors: DURANOGLU L. , SÖNMEZ C. , VURUCU S. , KURTOGLU D. , KESIK V. , COPLU N. , KOSEOGLU V. , ESEN B. , OZCAN O. 
Published: July 2009

SUMMARYIt has recently been reported that the worldwide increase in the number of pertussis cases is a result of the waning of whole-cell vaccine-induced immunity. Thus, in this study, we aimed to investigate the pertussis immunity status of primary and secondary school students in a district of Ankara, Turkey. A total of 997 healthy students, aged 9–17 years, who had been immunized with four doses of whole-cell pertussis vaccine were included in the study. The subjects were divided into two age groups: 9–14 and 15–17 years. To determine the immune status, serum levels of IgG anti-pertussis toxin (aPT) antibody were tested by in-house ELISA and arbitrarily evaluated as non-immune [<10 ELISA units (EU)/ml], immune (10–100 EU/ml), and recent infection (>100 EU/ml). Serum samples of 997 students (559 females, 438 males) aged between 9 and 17 years (mean 13·02±2·25, median 13 years) were tested. Non-immune, immune and recent infection levels of aPT were found in 27·3%, 59·3% and 13·4% of individuals, respectively. The immune group did not have statistically significant differences between males and females (P=0·68). In the 9–14 and 15–17 years age groups, serum aPT antibody levels ⩾10 EU/ml were 73·1% and 72·2%, respectively, which did not represent any statistical difference (P=0·81). Students aged 15–17 years had a higher immunity rate than the 9–14 years group, and the percentage of students with recent infection in the 9–14 years group was higher than the 15–17 years group (P<0·001). The peak age of non-immunized subjects was 9 years (47·0%), and decreased to a minimum at age 12–13 years, and began to increase again from age 13–14 years. In contrast, the ratio of recent infection was least at age 9–10 years, began to increase, and reached a peak at 12 years, and then decreased. On the other hand, it was observed that household size and monthly income were not associated with the immunity status (P=0·65,P=0·37, respectively). The results of the present study show that levels of antibody against pertussis decreased in the younger age groups and, as a result, there is an increase in the number of pertussis cases. Thus, in order to decrease the incidence of pertussis and protect infants, we recommend the application of booster doses at regular intervals.
Assessing the impact of climate change on vector-borne viruses in the EU through the elicitation of expert opinion
Authors: GALE P. , BROUWER A. , RAMNIAL V. , KELLY L. , KOSMIDER R. , FOOKS A. R. , SNARY E. L. 
Published: July 2009

SUMMARYExpert opinion was elicited to undertake a qualitative risk assessment to estimate the current and future risks to the European Union (EU) from five vector-borne viruses listed by the World Organization for Animal Health. It was predicted that climate change will increase the risk of incursions of African horse sickness virus (AHSV), Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV) and Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) into the EU from other parts of the world, with African swine fever virus (ASFV) and West Nile virus (WNV) being less affected. Currently the predicted risks of incursion were lowest for RVFV and highest for ASFV. Risks of incursion were considered for six routes of entry (namely vectors, livestock, meat products, wildlife, pets and people). Climate change was predicted to increase the risk of incursion from entry of vectors for all five viruses to some degree, the strongest effects being predicted for AHSV, CCHFV and WNV. This work will facilitate identification of appropriate risk management options in relation to adaptations to climate change.
Origins and dispersal of the Antarctic fairy shrimp
Authors: Hawes T.C. 
Published: July 2009

AbstractPassive dispersal has traditionally formed a fundamental component of biogeographical theories of the origin of the fauna that occupy the ice-free habitats of mainland Antarctica. But in the context of an emerging picture of endemism for many Antarctic terrestrial invertebrates, is there still a place for such stochastic processes in Antarctic biogeography? The case of the Antarctic fairy shrimp,Branchinecta gainiDaday 1910, may provide an answer - or, at least, an important exception to the rule. Although passive dispersal is certainly a stochastic and contingent phenomenon in Antarctica, the occurrence ofB. gainion the Antarctic Peninsula can only be explained satisfactorily by resort to this explanation. It is, at present, probably the best example of an Antarctic invertebrate with a biogeographic signature of passive - in particular, zoophoretic - dispersal.
Significance of the trace fossil Zoophycos in Pliocene deposits, Antarctic continental margin (ANDRILL 1B drill core)
Authors: Miller Molly F. , Cowan Ellen A. , Nielsen Simon H.H. 
Published: July 2009

AbstractZoophycos is a complex three dimensional trace fossil that is abundant in deep ocean sediments worldwide, but has not been described previously from Cenozoic continental margin deposits of Antarctica. In the ANDRILL 1B core drilled through the north-west McMurdo ice shelf, Zoophycos occurs in a 17 m thick unit of interglacial sediments bounded above and below by glacial surfaces of erosion. This unit was deposited during the transition from the relatively warm Early Pliocene characterized by productive open waters to the cooler Late Pliocene with fluctuating subpolar ice sheets. Globally, Late Cenozoic Zoophycos are most abundant at great depths (> 1000 m), and where sedimentation rates and TOC levels are low; the Zoophycos producer, probably a worm-like animal, was (is) a slow colonizer. Application of these preferences to the ANDRILL 1B core indicates that the Zoophycos-bearing unit was deposited episodically, with sufficient time between events to allow for the slow processes of colonization and construction. The foray of Zoophycos producer into the relatively shallow ANDRILL 1B depths (200–1000 m) during the Pliocene documents “emergence” of benthic animals, supporting suggestions that the unique modern Antarctic and Southern Ocean faunas result from both “emergence” and “submergence” during the Cenozoic.
The development of personality disorders: Perspectives from normal personality development in childhood and adolescence
Authors: Shiner Rebecca L. 
Published: July 2009

AbstractThe developmental pathways leading to personality disorders are poorly understood, but clues to these pathways come from recent research on personality disorders and normal personality development in childhood and adolescence. The first section of this paper reviews recent work on personality disorders in childhood and adolescence, and concludes that personality disorders in adolescence are already prevalent, moderately stable, and impairing. The second section draws on McAdams and Pals' personality model to offer a taxonomy of personality differences that can account for the known patterns of emerging personality pathology. This taxonomy includes youths' temperament and personality traits, mental representations (including attachment), coping strategies, and narrative identities. Individual differences in all of these domains may play critical roles in the development, manifestation, and course of personality disorders. Existing knowledge of normal and abnormal personality development can inform future research on the developmental pathways leading to personality pathology, the diagnostic criteria for personality disorders, and the development of validated treatments for personality disorders in the first two decades of life.
Multifinality in the development of personality disorders: A Biology × Sex × Environment interaction model of antisocial and borderline traits
Authors: Beauchaine Theodore P. , Klein Daniel N. , Crowell Sheila E. , Derbidge Christina , Gatzke-Kopp Lisa 
Published: July 2009

AbstractAlthough antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is more common among males and borderline PD (BPD) is more common among females, some authors have suggested that the two disorders reflect multifinal outcomes of a single etiology. This assertion is based on several overlapping symptoms and features, including trait impulsivity, emotional lability, high rates of depression and suicide, and a high likelihood of childhood abuse and/or neglect. Furthermore, rates of ASPD are elevated in the first degree relatives of those with BPD, and concurrent comorbidity rates for the two disorders are high. In this article, we present a common model of antisocial and borderline personality development. We begin by reviewing issues and problems with diagnosing and studying PDs in children and adolescents. Next, we discuss dopaminergic and serotonergic mechanisms of trait impulsivity as predisposing vulnerabilities to ASPD and BPD. Finally, we extend shared risk models for ASPD and BPD by specifying genetic loci that may confer differential vulnerability to impulsive aggression and mood dysregulation among males and impulsive self-injury and mood dysregulation among females. Although the precise mechanisms of these sex-moderated genetic vulnerabilities remain poorly understood, they appear to interact with environmental risk factors including adverse rearing environments to potentiate the development of ASPD and BPD.
Adolescent attachment and trajectories of hostile–impulsive behavior: Implications for the development of personality disorders
Authors: Kobak Roger , Zajac Kristyn , Smith Clare 
Published: July 2009

AbstractAdolescents' trajectories of impulsive and hostile behaviors provide a dynamic index of risk for the emergence of Cluster B (antisocial and borderline) personality disorders in early adulthood. In the current study, we tested the hypothesis that preoccupied states of mind in the Adult Attachment Interview would increase both the level and rate of growth in adolescents' trajectories of aggressive and sexual risk-taking behaviors measured at ages 13, 15, and 17. Overall, preoccupied states of mind predicted higher levels of sexual risk taking and aggressive behaviors across all three assessments as well as higher rates of growth in sexual-risk taking and caregiver-reported aggression over time. In addition, preoccupied females showed slower rates of decline in self-reported hostile emotions than did preoccupied males. The effects of gender as a moderator of the relations between preoccupied status and risk trajectories for personality disorders are discussed.
Conscientiousness and externalizing psychopathology: Overlap, developmental patterns, and etiology of two related constructs
Authors: Roberts Brent W. , Jackson Joshua J. , Burger Jessica , Trautwein Ulrich 
Published: July 2009

AbstractThe present paper focuses on the trait domain of conscientiousness, its development, and its relation to psychopathology. The definition of conscientiousness and its interface with specific forms of psychopathology, such as externalizing psychopathology, are discussed first. Then an overview of the known developmental changes in conscientiousness across the life course is provided, as well as the potential shared developmental etiology of conscientiousness and externalizing psychopathology. Given the lack of data, testing etiological factors that may contribute to the development of both conscientiousness and externalizing disorders, we report on three studies examining the childhood experiences associated with both conscientiousness and externalizing behaviors. Last, future directions are discussed.
Resting heart rate and the development of antisocial behavior from age 9 to 14: Genetic and environmental influences
Authors: Baker Laura A. , Tuvblad Catherine , Reynolds Chandra , Zheng Mo , Lozano Dora Isabel , Raine Adrian 
Published: July 2009

AbstractThe genetic and environmental basis of a well-replicated association between antisocial behavior (ASB) and resting heart rate was investigated in a longitudinal twin study, based on two measurements between the ages of 9 and 14 years. ASB was defined as a broad continuum of externalizing behavior problems, assessed at each occasion through a composite measure based on parent ratings of trait aggression, delinquent behaviors, and psychopathic traits in their children. Parent ratings of ASB significantly decreased across age from childhood to early adolescence, although latent growth models indicated significant variation and twin similarity in the growth patterns, which were explained almost entirely by genetic influences. Resting heart rate at age 9–10 years old was inversely related to levels of ASB but not change patterns of ASB across age or occasions. Biometrical analyses indicated significant genetic influences on heart rate during childhood, as well as ASB throughout development from age 9 to 14. Both level and slope variation were significantly influenced by genetic factors. Of importance, the low resting heart rate and ASB association was significantly and entirely explained by their genetic covariation, although the heritable component of heart rate explained only a small portion (1–4%) of the substantial genetic variance in ASB. Although the effect size is small, children with low resting heart rate appear to be genetically predisposed toward externalizing behavior problems as early as age 9 years old.
Community Treatment Orders and Competence to Consent
Authors: Milne Duncan , O'Brien Anthony , McKenna Brian 
Published: July 2009

Objective: The aim of this paper is to explore the relationship between civil commitment under a Community Treatment Order (CTO) and competence to consent to treatment. Method: A purposive convenience sample of 10 service users under CTOs were interviewed using the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool for Treatment (MacCAT-T). Ratings were compared with the ratings of 10 matched voluntary service users. Results: Seventy percent of the CTO sample were found to be incompetent according to the MacCAT-T, compared to 20% of the comparison group ( p = 0.004). The proportion of the CTO sample found to be incompetent reduces to 50% if the subscale of appreciation is excluded ( p = 0.004). Most people in each group would elect to continue their current treatment if given the choice. Conclusion: Findings of this study suggest that mental health law reform introducing considerations of competence could lead to a substantially different group of people being subject to CTOs. If the CTO is carefully targeted and not used excessively, it is likely to be accorded qualified acceptance for most service users for whom it is used.
Child and Family Inclusive Practice: A Pilot Program in a Community Adult Mental Health Service
Authors: Cowling Vicki , Garrett Matthew 
Published: July 2009

Objective: The aim of this paper is to describe the Child and Family Inclusive Practice program (CFIP), a pilot program implemented in an adult community mental health centre in Newcastle, New South Wales, which aimed to enhance family relationships through child and family inclusive practice. Conclusions: The CFIP used a family-focused, child-sensitive approach in which two clinicians met together with families where there was parental mental illness. Adults and children were seen together and separately. Work with parents was aimed at validating their concerns for the child, and enhancing their confidence as parents/carers. Children had the opportunity to express their concerns in a safe and protective environment and, where appropriate, were supported in their concerns if these were being put to the adult family members. The project was seen to add value to the service provision of the community mental health team, and demonstrated to clinical staff the benefits of an inclusive and whole of family approach to mental health care.
An Evaluation of Monitoring Practices in Patients on Second Generation Antipsychotics
Authors: Nguyen Dang , Brakoulias Vlasios , Boyce Philip 
Published: July 2009

Objective: Treatment with second generation antipsychotics (SGAs) can increase the risk of patients with schizophrenia developing obesity, hyperlipidaemia and diabetes. Routine monitoring is recommended, but clinical practice suggests monitoring is not conducted at a rate necessary for these comorbidities. The aim was to audit what proportion of patients were having their weight, height, girth, body mass index, lipids and blood sugar levels monitored and recorded. Method: An audit of patients with schizophrenia, discharged from three psychiatric wards, was conducted. Two data sheets were recorded for every patient and inter-rater reliability was calculated. Data were then entered into SPSS and statistical significance calculated. Results: The sample consisted of 93 patients; SGAs were taken by 31% of admitted and 88% of discharged patients. Of these, 65% had their weight recorded, 61% height, 31% random blood sugar levels, 3% postprandial blood sugar levels, 2% glycosylated haemoglobin, and 7.5% cholesterol and triglycerides. Girth and BMI were not recorded. Abnormalities were detected in 29% of recorded BSL and 2% of recorded cholesterol. Conclusions: Patients with schizophrenia on antipsychotics have an alarmingly low rate of monitoring of these common adverse effects and comorbidities. Clinicians need to be aware of this, so that they can improve their practice.
Children as Consumer Participants of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services
Authors: Mitchell-Lowe Margaret , Eggleston Matthew 
Published: July 2009

Objective: This pilot study explored children's perspectives of an initial assessment at outpatient child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). Method: A semi-structured qualitative interview was undertaken with nine children aged 7–12 years. Transcribed interviews were analyzed to reveal common themes. Results: Children generally coped well with the interview. They identified themes involving stigma, qualities and approaches of staff, aspects of the CAMHS environment, and anxiety about attending CAMHS as key issues. Conclusions: This pilot study suggests that it is feasible to interview children regarding their perspectives on attending a CAMHS. Children's views of CAMHS are required to help inform developmentally appropriate service delivery.
Medical Students’ Attitudes Towards a Career in Psychiatry before and after Viewing a Promotional DVD
Authors: Robertson Tasha , Walter Garry , Soh Nerissa , Hunt Glenn , Cleary Michelle , Malhi Gin 
Published: July 2009

Objectives: The objectives were, first, to determine attitudes towards psychiatry as a career among medical students currently enrolled at the University of Sydney and, second, to establish the immediate impact on those attitudes of a promotional DVD, released by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. Method: Medical students enrolled in the University of Sydney in 2008 were invited to complete a voluntary online questionnaire, in which their attitudes towards psychiatry were explored, and the immediate effects of a 15-minute DVD were ascertained. Results: A total of 123 students participated. Only one student identified psychiatry as their chosen career. Medical students viewed psychiatry as the least attractive specialty for the degree to which patients are helped effectively and in terms of having a reliable scientific foundation. However, it rated well in regard to being intellectually challenging, a rapidly advancing field of medicine, and providing research opportunities and a good lifestyle. Psychiatry is less respected than most other specialties by students and they perceive this discipline to be poorly respected by other medical students and current medical practitioners. After viewing the DVD, there were improved student ratings of the benefits of a career in psychiatry, especially in relation to the specialty being enjoyable, offering effective treatment and having a scientific foundation. There was also enhanced understanding of the role of a psychiatrist in just over half of the participants and increased interest in psychiatry in about 30% of participants. The DVD was most effective in increasing awareness of the diversity of subspecialties available within psychiatry, good lifestyle factors, and the training involved. Conclusion: Among medical students, psychiatry is perceived as unattractive and fails to command the respect afforded other specialties. The viewing of a promotional DVD by medical students was found to be effective in improving their attitudes towards psychiatry and increasing their interest in pursuing a career in the specialty. However, the long-term impact of this modest improvement is unknown and the low survey response rate limits the extent to which the results can be generalized.
The University of Western Australia Institute of Psychiatry for Medical Students: An Australian First
Authors: Lyons Zaza , Power Brian , Bilyk Natalia , Claassen Johann 
Published: July 2009

Objective: Recruitment of medical graduates into psychiatry has become a growing issue over the last few decades. This paper describes the implementation of an innovative program, based on a Canadian concept, that aimed to promote psychiatry as a career choice to medical students, to immerse them in the ‘world of psychiatry’, and introduce them to potential mentors. The University of Western Australia Institute of Psychiatry for Medical Students was a week-long program that provided medical students with an opportunity to participate in a diverse agenda of interactive seminars on a range of psychiatric subspecialties and the neurosciences. Students were also able to attend elective sessions and meet registrars and psychiatrists on an informal basis. Lunches and social events were also provided. Conclusion: Twenty-one students attended the inaugural Institute. Twenty-seven speakers contributed to the morning seminars and there were 17 clinical elective site visits. Feedback from students was positive and the week was rated highly, both in terms of its organization and from an academic perspective. It is planned to run the Institute annually and, in time, it is hoped that it will increase the numbers of students who choose psychiatry as a career option.
Alprazolam Prescribing in Tasmania: A Two-Fold Intervention Designed to Reduce Inappropriate Prescribing and Concomitant Opiate Prescription
Authors: Hooper Stuart , Bruno Raimondo , Sharpe Mary , Tahmindjis Alex 
Published: July 2009

Objective: The population rate of alprazolam prescribing in Tasmania has been more than double that of national rates. Serious adverse events have been observed through co-administration of opioid medications with alprazolam. A two-fold intervention, comprising GP education coupled with changes to prescribing regulations, was designed with the intention to decrease inappropriate prescribing of alprazolam and thereby reduce adverse outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the intervention on prescribing rates. Method: We measured the number of alprazolam prescriptions for the years prior to and the year following the intervention. Health Insurance Commission data were utilized to enable comparison of subsidized prescription rates for alprazolam in Tasmania, and compared with national data. Participants were registered medical practitioners in Tasmania who were potential prescribers of alprazolam. The interventions were three GP Education Meetings during June 2007, one in each of the major regions of Tasmania, regarding evidence-based interventions for panic disorder. Changes to regulatory procedures to minimize co-prescription of alprazolam with opioids was implemented in September 2007. Results: A reduction in alprazolam prescribing in Tasmania occurred after the interventions. Conclusion: Education can be an effective strategy to influence prescribing behaviour of doctors. It is likely that this effect can be augmented by adoption of more stringent regulatory requirements.