bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Family Perceptions of End‐of‐Life Care for Long‐Term Care Residents with Dementia: Differences Between the United States and the Netherlands
Authors: Cohen Lauren W. , van der Steen Jenny T. , Reed David , Hodgkinson Jennifer C. , van Soest‐Poortvliet Mirjam C. , Sloane Philip D. , Zimmerman Sheryl 
Published: January 2012

ObjectivesTo examine cross‐national care and outcomes related to end‐of‐life experiences.DesignPostdeath interviews and self‐administered questionnaires completed with family caregivers of residents with dementia who died in long‐term care settings or shortly after transfer.SettingOne hundred eighty‐three nursing home and residential care/assisted living settings in the United States and the Netherlands.ParticipantsFamily caregivers of 196 residents with dementia who had died (126 in the United States and 70 in the Netherlands).MeasurementsNine standardized measures of care and outcomes and single‐item measures of overall quality of care and life.ResultsIn adjusted and unadjusted analyses, U.S. family caregivers reported better care and outcomes on most of the standardized measures and better quality of care (single item) in the last 3 days of life; caregivers in the Netherlands reported better quality of life (single item) in the last month and 3 days of life. Exploratory analyses related to hospice use found differences in bivariate but not adjusted comparisons.ConclusionBecause previous research favored care in the Netherlands to that in the United States, findings suggest improvement in end‐of‐life care and outcomes in the United States and stability in the Netherlands. Greater hospice use does not explain improvements in the United States directly and may relate, at least in part, to care provided by long‐term care staff themselves. Better understanding of the nature and process of these improvements may suggest areas for additional improvement.
New‐Onset Treatment‐Dependent Diabetes Mellitus and Hyperlipidemia Associated with Atypical Antipsychotic Use in Older Adults without Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Erickson Sara C. , Le Lisa , Zakharyan Armen , Stockl Karen M. , Harada Ann S. M. , Borson Soo , Ramsey Scott D. , Curtis Bradford 
Published: January 2012

ObjectivesTo examine the association between atypical antipsychotic medications and incident treatment for diabetes mellitus or hyperlipidemia in elderly adults without diagnoses of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.DesignTwo case–control studies using medical and pharmacy claims data.SettingUnited States managed care population from multiple insurance plans.ParticipantsIndividuals aged 65 and older enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or commercial (health maintenance organization) managed care health plan in the western United States with no claims indicating diagnosis of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder in the 1 year pre‐index period. Cases were defined as persons newly initiated on an antidiabetic (n = 13,075) or antihyperlipidemic (n = 63,829) medication on the index date. For the new diabetes mellitus analysis, 65,375 controls were matched to cases based on age, sex, health‐plan type, and index date year. In the new hyperlipidemia analysis, 63,829 controls were matched to cases based on the same variables.MeasurementsConditional logistic regressions were performed to determine the odds of initiated antidiabetic or antihyperlipidemic medication for participants exposed to atypical antipsychotics compared with those with no exposure. The models included comorbidities possibly associated with the outcome.ResultsExposure to atypical antipsychotics was associated with significantly greater adjusted odds of starting an antidiabetic medication (1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.10–1.59) but significantly lower odds of starting an antihyperlipidemic medication (0.76, 95% CI = 0.67–0.87).ConclusionUse of atypical antipsychotics in older adults for conditions other than schizophrenia and bipolar disorder was associated with incident treatment of diabetes mellitus but not of hyperlipidemia, suggesting that older adults may be susceptible to the adverse metabolic consequences of these agents.
Quality of Life in Late‐Life Disability: “I Don't Feel Bitter Because I Am in a Wheelchair”
Authors: King Jennifer , Yourman Lindsey , Ahalt Cyrus , Eng Catherine , Knight Sara J. , Pérez‐Stable Eliseo J. , Smith Alexander K. 
Published: January 2012

ObjectivesTo determine perceived quality of life in a diverse population of elderly adults with late‐life disability.DesignQualitative cross‐sectional study.SettingCommunity‐dwelling participants were recruited from San Francisco's On Lok Lifeways program, the first Program of All‐inclusive Care for the Elderly. On Lok enrollees meet Medicaid criteria for nursing home placement.ParticipantsSixty‐two elderly adults with a mean age of 78 and a mean 2.4 activity of daily living dependencies and 6.6 instrumental activity of daily living dependencies were interviewed. Respondents were 63% female, 24% white, 19% black, 18% Latino, 32% Chinese American, and 6% other race.MeasurementsElderly adults who scored higher than 17 points on the Mini‐Mental State Examination were interviewed. Interviews were conducted in English, Spanish, and Cantonese. Respondents were asked to rate their overall quality of life on a 5‐point scale. Open‐ended questions explored positive and negative aspects of participants’ daily experiences. Interviews were analyzed using modified grounded theory and digital coding software.ResultsEighty‐seven percent of respondents rated their quality of life in the middle range of the quality‐of‐life spectrum (fair to very good). Themes were similar across ethnic groups. Most themes could be grouped into four domains that dependent elderly adults considered important to their quality of life: physical (e.g., pain), psychological (e.g., depression), spiritual or religious (e.g., religious coping), and social (e.g., life‐space). Dignity and a sense of control were identified as themes that are the most closely tied to overall quality of life.ConclusionFactors that influence quality of life in late‐life disability were similar across ethnic groups. As the number of elderly adults from diverse backgrounds with late life disability increases in the United States, interventions should be targeted to maximize daily sense of control and dignity.
The Disappearing Subject: Exclusion of People with Cognitive Impairment and Dementia from Geriatrics Research
Authors: Taylor Janelle S. , DeMers Shaune M. , Vig Elizabeth K. , Borson Soo 
Published: January 2012

ObjectivesTo evaluate exclusion of persons with cognitive impairment from research in geriatrics by determining its frequency, method, and rationale and treatment in the resulting publications.DesignAll original research articles published in 2008 and 2009 in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society (n = 434) were reviewed using a structured data collection tool.SettingThe Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.ParticipantsThere were no participants in this study.MeasurementsData captured included recruitment method, explicit criterion for exclusion of persons with cognitive impairment, justification of exclusion criterion, reason given for exclusion, percentage of individuals excluded, and mention of exclusion as a possible limitation.ResultsOf 434 articles examined, 16% used recruitment methods likely to reduce participation by persons with cognitive impairment. At least 29% of studies (n = 127) employed explicit exclusion criteria. Half used the Folstein Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), with variable cut points (10, 12, 17, 18, 23, 26), and 19% excluded individuals for “having dementia” without specifying how this was determined. Few (6%) provided any justification for exclusion criteria used, only 43% gave any reason for exclusion, and only 14% discussed exclusion as a possible limitation.ConclusionPersons with cognitive impairment are frequently excluded from research, often without rationale or mention of exclusion as a limitation or any discussion of its potential effect on the evidence base in geriatrics. When necessary, exclusion should be done thoughtfully and with awareness that this may reduce the clinical utility of study findings.
The Rise of Oxygen and Complex Life
Authors: Van Der Giezen Mark , Lenton Timothy M. 
Published: January 2012

AbstractMitochondria have been put forward as the saviours of anaerobes when their environment became oxygenated. However, despite oxygenic photosynthesis evolving around 2.7 billion years ago (Ga), followed by the “Great Oxidation” of the atmosphere ~ 2.4 Ga, the deep oceans remained largely anoxic and either iron‐enriched or sulphidic until 580 million years ago, when the eukaryotic radiation was well underway. Atmospheric oxygen probably remained at an intermediate concentration (1–10% of the present level) from ~ 2.4 until ~ 0.8 Ga when a “lesser oxidation” began. This drastically changes the textbook view of the ecological conditions under which the mitochondrial endosymbiont established itself. It could explain the widespread distribution of anaerobic biochemistry in every eukaryotic supergroup: anaerobic biochemistry is hard‐wired into the eukaryotes.
The therapeutic effect of Rosuvastatin on cardiac remodelling from hypertrophy to fibrosis during the end‐stage hypertension in rats
Authors: Zhang W.B. , Du Q.J. , Li H. , Sun A.J. , Qiu Z.H. , Wu C.N. , Zhao G. , Gong H. , Hu K. , Zou Y.Z. , Ge J.B. 
Published: January 2012

AbstractEnd‐stage hypertensive heart disease is an increasing cause of cardiac mortality. Therefore, the current study focused on the cardiac remodelling from hypertrophy to fibrosis in old‐aged spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), and explored the therapeutic effects of Rosuvastatin and its possible mechanism(s) of action. Spontaneously hypertensive rats at age 52 weeks were randomly divided into three groups, the first two to receive Rosuvastatin at a dose of 20 mg/kg/day and 40 mg/kg/day, respectively, and the third to receive placebo, which was to be compared with Wistar‐Kyoto as controls. After 2‐month treatment, SBP, heart to body weight ratio (HW/BW%) and echocardiographic features were evaluated, followed by haematoxylin and eosin and Masson trichrome staining in conjunction with qPCR of foetal gene expressions. Transferase‐mediated dUTP nick‐end labelling assay and immunofluorescent labelling for active caspase‐3 were used to detect the apoptotic cardiomyocytes. Signaling pathways involved were examined by using western blot. Old‐aged SHR developed end‐stage hypertensive heart disease characterized by significant enhancement of HW/BW%, LVAWd and LVPWd, and decreased LVEF and LVFS, accompanied by cardiomyocytes enlargement and fibrosis along with activation of foetal gene programme. Cardiac apoptosis increased significantly during the transition process. Rosuvastatin reduced hypertrophy significantly via AT1 Receptor‐PKCβ2/α‐ERK‐c‐fos pathway; protected myocardium against apoptosis via Akt‐FOXO1, Bcl‐2 family and survivin pathways and consequently suppressed the caspase‐3 activity. The present study revealed that old‐aged SHRs developed cardiac remodelling from hypertrophy to fibrosis via cardiac apoptosis during the end stage of hypertensive heart disease. These pathological changes might be the consequence of activation of AT1 Receptor‐PKCβ2/α‐ERK‐c‐fos and AKT‐FOXO1/Bcl‐2/survivin/Caspase3 signaling. Rosuvastatin effectively attenuated the structural changes by reversing the signaling transductions involved.
The use of chronic gingivitis as reference status increases the power and odds of periodontitis genetic studies – a proposal based in the exposure concept and clearer resistance and susceptibility phenotypes definition
Authors: Garlet Gustavo Pompermaier , Trombone Ana Paula Favaro , Menezes Renato , Letra Ariadne , Repeke Carlos Eduardo , Vieira Andreia Espindola , Martins Walter , Neves Lucimara Teixeira das , Campanelli Ana Paula , Santos Carlos Ferreira dos , Vieira Alexandre R. 
Published: January 2012

AbstractAimCurrent literature on chronic periodontitis genetics encompasses numerous single nucleotide polymorphisms‐focused case–control studies with inconsistent and controversial results, which typically disregards the exposure concept embraced by case–control definition. Herein, we propose a case–control design reappraisal by clear phenotype selection, where chronic gingivitis represents a genetically resistant phenotype/genotype opposing the susceptible cohort.Material and methodsThe hypothesis was tested in healthy, chronic periodontitis and gingivitis groups through Real‐time PCR‐based allelic discrimination of classic variants IL1B‐3954, IL6‐174, TNFA‐308, IL10‐592 and TLR4‐299.ResultsObserved allele/genotype frequencies characterize the healthy group with an intermediate genetic profile between periodontitis and gingivitis cohorts. When comparing genotype/allele frequencies in periodontitis versus healthy and periodontitis versus gingivitis scenarios, the number of positive associations (2–4) and the degree of association (p and odds ratio values) were significantly increased by the new approach proposed (periodontitis versus gingivitis), suggesting the association of IL1B‐3954, TNFA‐308, IL10‐592 and TLR4‐299 with periodontitis risk. Power study was also significantly improved by the new study design proposed when compared to the traditional approach.ConclusionsThe data presented herein support the use of new case–control study design based on the case–control definition and clear resistance/susceptibility phenotypes selection, which can significantly impact the study power and odds of identification of genetic factors involved in PD.
Low burnout risk and high engagement levels among oral and maxillofacial surgeons
Authors: Gorter R.C. , Jacobs B.L.T.H. , Allard R.H.B. 
Published: January 2012

Gorter RC, Jacobs BLTH, Allard RHB. Low burnout risk and high engagement levels among oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

Eur J Oral Sci 2012; 120: 69–74. © 2012 Eur J Oral SciLittle is known about the well‐being of oral and maxillofacial surgeons. The aim of this study was to measure the levels of burnout risk and the demanding work aspects of Dutch oral and maxillofacial surgeons, as well as the levels of positive work engagement and stimulating aspects of the work environment. The Maslach Burnout Inventory, Dutch version (UBOS), and inventories on positive engagement, work demands, and stimulating aspects of work, were sent to all 179 Dutch oral and maxillofacial surgeons currently in clinical practices. With a 70% response, UBOS mean scores on Emotional Exhaustion and Depersonalization appeared lower, and on Personal Accomplishment appeared higher, when compared with relevant reference scores. Engagement scores appeared to be relatively high. Mean scores on the work demands subscales were all well below the scale midpoint, whereas work resources were all well above. Dutch oral and maxillofacial surgeons showed relatively favorable burnout and engagement levels. The aspects of the work environment that best explain differences in burnout are ‘Practice demands and organization’ and ‘Lack of variation and perspective in work’. Differences in engagement are best explained by ‘Variety in work’ and ‘Positive effect upon patients’. It is remarkable that all work demands show relatively low levels and all stimulating work aspects show relatively high levels.
Ubiquitin proteasome system and the atypical kinase PfPK7 are involved in melatonin signaling in Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Koyama Fernanda C. , Ribeiro Ramira Y. , Garcia Julio L. , Azevedo Mauro F. , Chakrabarti Debopam , Garcia Célia R. S. 
Published: January 2012

Abstract:  We previously reported that melatonin modulates the Plasmodium falciparum erythrocytic cycle by increasing schizont stage population as well as diminishing ring stage population. In addition, the importance of calcium and cAMP in melatonin signaling pathway in P. falciparum was also demonstrated. Nevertheless, the molecular effectors of the indoleamine signaling pathway remain elusive. We now demonstrate by real‐time PCR that melatonin treatment up‐regulates genes related to ubiquitin/proteasome system (UPS) components and that luzindole, a melatonin receptor antagonist, inhibits UPS transcription modulation. We also show that protein kinase PfPK7, a P. falciparum orphan kinase, plays a crucial role in the melatonin transduction pathway, since following melatonin treatment of P. falciparum parasites where pfpk7 gene is disrupted (pfpk7− parasites) (i) the ratio of asexual stages remain unchanged, (ii) the increase in cytoplasmatic calcium in response to melatonin was strongly diminished and (iii) up‐regulation of UPS genes did not occur. The wild‐type melatonin‐induced alterations in cell cycle features, calcium rise and UPS gene transcription were restored by re‐introduction of a functional copy of the pfpk7 gene in the pfpk7− parasites.
Trait assembly of woody plants in communities across sub‐alpine gradients: Identifying the role of limiting similarity
Authors: Yan Bangguo , Zhang Jian , Liu Yang , Li Zebo , Huang Xu , Yang Wanqin , Prinzing Andreas 
Published: January 2012

AbstractQuestionsPlant species can be assembled into communities through habitat filtering or species competition, but their relative roles are still debated. We do not know whether there is limited similarity between co‐existing species when accounting for the parallel effect of abiotic habitat filtering and biotic competition. By accounting for such effects, we test the predictions of three theories (classic niche theory, the Hubbell neutrality theory and the Scheffer and van Nes theory) of community assembly.LocationTwo vegetation transitions (a grazing gradient and a timber line ecotone) in a sub‐alpine area of western Sichuan Province, China (31° 51′N, 102° 41′E).MethodsWe used a null model to investigate the above plant community assembly theories on two sub‐alpine gradients of woody vegetation. In the null model, species traits were constrained between the maximum and minimum trait values of observed communities to test the principle of limiting similarity between co‐existing species by testing for even spacing of traits. We analysed traits characterizing growth strategies of stems, leaves and twigs, measured at the level of individuals in situ.ResultsAfter accounting for variations in trait range, it became evident that six out of eight traits showed significantly uneven spacing within some plots, notably towards the forest end of the gradient, i.e. under increased competition pressure among woody plants. The Wilcoxon rank test showed that seven out of eight traits were significantly unevenly spaced within plots. The two transitions studied showed surprisingly similar patterns, despite their dissimilar precise drivers.ConclusionOur results support the recent theory of Scheffer & van Nes, which suggests that competition could result in a clumped pattern of species along a niche axis.
SKEPTICISM BORDERING ON DISTRUST: FAMILY LAW IN THE HOLLYWOOD CINEMA
Authors: Papke David Ray 
Published: January 2012

This article critiques Hollywood films from the last last 20–30 years that relate to family law. More specifically, this article considers films involving marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption and focuses on the portrayal of law in those films. While the films are not tightly connected to one another and surely do not share a unified theme, the films do share a surprising skepticism bordering on distrust regarding law, legal procedures, and legal institutions. Hollywood appears to have picked up a general sentiment that family should be a private, intimate sanctuary and is better off without state intrusion through law. The films incorporate this sentiment and also reinforce it by teaching viewers to be leery of law in family matters.Key Points for the Family Court Community:
Recent Hollywood films include not only abundant portrayals of family life but also numerous examples of family law.
As a result, these Hollywood films have the potential to educate viewers about family law and to prompt certain normative attitudes about family law.
In general, Hollywood films invite viewers to be skeptical and even disdainful of family law.
A REVIEW OF PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO PREPARE PARENTS FOR CUSTODY AND VISITATION MEDIATION
Authors: Kitzmann Katherine M. , Parra Gilbert R. , Jobe‐Shields Lisa 
Published: January 2012

Mediation orientation programs are an increasingly common resource for parents preparing to mediate custody and visitation disputes. In this paper, we review empirical studies on program effectiveness and describe a range of programs in the U.S. Most are brief and psychoeducational in nature, focusing on the mediation process and the effects of conflict on children. Programs typically provide information through reading materials, slides, and videos, either in a group setting or online. Few evaluate program effectiveness. We offer suggestions for program evaluation and introduce an assessment‐based framework for providing individualized services for parents.Key Points for the Family Court Community
Few Mediation Orientation programs have been empirically evaluated.
Useful research designs would include (1) assessing participants both before and after the program and (2) comparing program participants to non‐participants.
The psychoeducational components of Mediation Orientation programs may need to be tailored for low‐ and high‐conflict couples.
Changes in Urodynamics and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms after Radical Prostatectomy: Implications of Preoperative Detrusor Contractility
Authors: MITSUI Takahiko , TANAKA Hiroshi , HARABAYASHI Toru , MORIYA Kimihiko , MARUYAMA Satoru , ABE Takashige , SAZAWA Ataru , SHINOHARA Nobuo , NONOMURA Katsuya 
Published: January 2012

Objectives: Our goal was to identify changes in urodynamic parameters and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men followed for1 year after radical prostatectomy (RP) compared to the preoperative measures with a specific focus on detrusor contractility.Methods: This study enrolled 43 patients who received RP (laparoscopic 27, retropubic: 16) and pressure flow studies (PFS) pre‐RP as well as 12 months (M) after RP. No patients complained of urinary incontinence preoperatively. Urodynamic studies and questionnaires regarding LUTS and urinary continence were conducted before and 12 M after RP. Detrusor underactivity (DU) was defined as <10 (W/m2) in preoperative maximum watts factor value.Results: Urodynamics demonstrated that RP improved urodynamic parameters by releasing bladder outlet obstruction without affecting overall detrusor contractility. Meanwhile, RP did not affect bladder capacity, bladder compliance, or detrusor contractility. LUTS in the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), including the IPSS subscore, was not improved. The quality of life score was significantly better at 12 M after RP and continence rates were gradually improved to be at a satisfactory level in more than 80% of patients by 12 M after RP. DU was preoperatively identified in 21(49%) patients, influencing urodynamic parameters and LUTS preoperatively. However, DU did not affect urodynamic parameters and LUTS after RP.Conclusion: Although RP improves urodynamic parameters, it does not significantly affect LUTS. Urinary continence gradually improves and is satisfactory within 1 year after RP. The status of preoperative detrusor contractility did not affect urodynamic parameters or LUTS after RP.