bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison Between Atrial Fibrillation‐Triggered Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator (ICD) Shocks and Inappropriate Shocks Caused by Lead Failure: Different Impact on Prognosis in Clinical Practice
Authors: KLEEMANN THOMAS , HOCHADEL MATTHIAS , STRAUSS MARGIT , SKARLOS ALEXANDROS , SEIDL KARLHEINZ , ZAHN RALF
Published: February 2012

Prognostic Impact of Inappropriate Shocks.

Introduction: Recent studies suggest a worse impact of inappropriate shock therapies on the outcome of patients with an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD). However, it is not known whether the worse impact is attributed to the ICD shock itself or due to the underlying heart disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of inappropriate ICD shocks on clinical outcome by comparing ICD shocks triggered by atrial fibrillation (AF) with shocks caused by lead failure.

Methods and Results: A total of 1,411 consecutive patients of the prospective single‐center ICD‐registry Ludwigshafen who underwent an ICD implantation between 1992 and 2008 for primary or secondary prevention of sudden cardiac death were analyzed. During the median follow‐up of 3 years, 297 (21%) patients experienced inappropriate ICD shocks. Sixty percent of patients had inappropriate shocks due to AF and 24% due to lead defect or T‐wave oversensing. Multiple ICD shocks (≥2) triggered by AF were associated with a worse prognosis, whereas a single shock due to AF or 1 or multiple shocks resulting from lead failure were not. ICD shocks caused by AF occurred more often in tandem with a serious adverse event than in patients with a lead failure (15% vs 6%, P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Multiple ICD shocks triggered by AF are associated with a worse prognosis in ICD patients, whereas a single shock due to AF or shocks resulting from lead failure are not. These data support that the ICD shock itself has no worse impact on the outcome of ICD patients. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 735‐740, July 2012)
Multilevel Functional Clustering Analysis
Authors: Serban Nicoleta , Jiang Huijing
Published: February 2012

Summary In this article, we investigate clustering methods for multilevel functional data, which consist of repeated random functions observed for a large number of units (e.g., genes) at multiple subunits (e.g., bacteria types). To describe the within‐ and between variability induced by the hierarchical structure in the data, we take a multilevel functional principal component analysis (MFPCA) approach. We develop and compare a hard clustering method applied to the scores derived from the MFPCA and a soft clustering method using an MFPCA decomposition. In a simulation study, we assess the estimation accuracy of the clustering membership and the cluster patterns under a series of settings: small versus moderate number of time points; various noise levels; and varying number of subunits per unit. We demonstrate the applicability of the clustering analysis to a real data set consisting of expression profiles from genes activated by immunity system cells. Prevalent response patterns are identified by clustering the expression profiles using our multilevel clustering analysis.
Indentation Deformation and Microcracking in β‐Si3N4‐Based Nanoceramic
Authors: Lee Ching‐Huan , Liu Hao‐Chih , Lu Horng‐Hwa , Goto Takashi , Tu Rong , Wang Chang‐An , Pavol Sajalik , Ruan Jian‐Long , Nayak Pramoda K. , Chen Jian‐Horn , Chen Qing‐Yu , Huang Jow‐Lay
Published: February 2012

The effects of microstructure on the mechanical responses and damage evolution of spark‐plasma‐sintered β‐Si3N4‐based ceramics has been evaluated through indentation tests. It was found that the nanoceramic and its coarse‐grained counterpart exhibit similar elastoplastic behavior in their indentation responses. However, the increased hardness and ratio of elastic work to total work done in the nanoceramic suggest that resistance to plastic deformation is greater than that in the coarser‐grained one. The microcracking behavior within the indented materials is also proposed. A finite‐element analysis is used to estimate the distribution of compressive and shear stresses within the indented materials. The smaller grain size in bridging ceramic not only enhances the energy dissipation by formation of a higher density of intergranular microcracks along the weak grain boundary phase but also toughens the cracked solid through increasing resistance to plastic sliding and multi‐cracks propagation. Prior to formation of the radial cracks, better damage tolerance of nanoceramic is thought to be achieved in this study.
Exsanguinated Blood Volume Estimation Using Fractal Analysis of Digital Images*
Authors: Sant Sonia P. , Fairgrieve Scott I.
Published: February 2012

Abstract: The estimation of bloodstain volume using fractal analysis of digital images of passive blood stains is presented. Binary digital photos of bloodstains of known volumes (ranging from 1 to 7 mL), dispersed in a defined area, were subjected to image analysis using FracLac V. 2.0 for ImageJ. The box‐counting method was used to generate a fractal dimension for each trial. A positive correlation between the generated fractal number and the volume of blood was found (R2 = 0.99). Regression equations were produced to estimate the volume of blood in blind trials. An error rate ranging from 78% for 1 mL to 7% for 6 mL demonstrated that as the volume increases so does the accuracy of the volume estimation. This method used in the preliminary study proved that bloodstain patterns may be deconstructed into mathematical parameters, thus removing the subjective element inherent in other methods of volume estimation.
Determination of an Effective Housekeeping Gene for the Quantification of mRNA for Forensic Applications*
Authors: Moreno Lilliana I. , Tate Courtney M. , Knott Erika L. , McDaniel Jade E. , Rogers Stephanie S. , Koons Barbara W. , Kavlick Mark F. , Craig Rhonda L. , Robertson James M.
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  The potential application of mRNA for the identification of biological fluids using molecular techniques has been a recent development in forensic serology. Constitutively expressed housekeeping genes can assess the amount of mRNA recovered from a sample, establish its suitability for downstream applications, and provide a reference point to corroborate the identity of the fluid. qPCR was utilized to compare the expression levels of housekeeping genes from forensic‐like body fluid stains to establish the most appropriate assessment of human mRNA quantity prior to profiling. Although variability was observed between fluids and individuals, results indicated that beta‐2 microglobulin exhibited the highest expression for all body fluids examined and across donors. A one‐way analysis of variance was performed for housekeeping gene variability between donors (at the α, 0.05, significance level), and the results indicated significant differences for semen, vaginal secretions, and menstrual blood.
The effect of collagenated space filling materials in sinus bone augmentation: a study in rabbits
Authors: Lambert France , Léonard Angelique , Drion Pierre , Sourice Sophie , Pilet Paul , Rompen Eric
Published: February 2012

Aim

The inclusion of biomaterial particles used for alveolar bone regeneration in a carrier or in binding agents such as collagen gel or fibers is of interest as a means to help with surgical handling. However, the possible influence of collagen on bone tissue response to biomaterials is poorly studied. The objective of the present study was to investigate, in a sub‐sinus bone augmentation model in rabbits, the effect of collagen at different stages of the osteogenesis process. Histologic, histomorphometric and volumetric analyses were performed.

Materials and methods

Rabbits underwent a double sinus lift procedure using bovine hydroxyapatite (BHA), collagenated bovine hydroxyapatite (BHAColl), and prehydrated and collagenated porcine hydroxyapatite (PHAColl). Animals were sacrificed at 1 week, 5 weeks or 6 months. Samples were subjected to X‐ray micro‐tomography and histology. Qualitative analysis was performed on the non‐decalcified sections and quantitative histomorphometric analyses were conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Volume variations of bone augmentations were calculated at different time points.

Results

The three biomaterials allowed an optimal bone formation and were able to equally withstand sinusal reexpansion. A comparable percentage of new bone, as well as 3D volume stability, was found between the groups at each time point. However, the PHAColl resorption rate was significantly higher than the rates in other groups (P = 0.0003), with only 3.6% of the particles remaining at 6 months. At 1 week, both collagenated groups displayed the presence of inflammatory cells although BHA did not show any sign of inflammation. At 5 weeks and 6 months, the inflammatory process had disappeared completely in the BHAColl groups, whereas some inflammatory‐like cells could still be observed around the remaining particles of PHAColl.

Conclusions and clinical implications

Within the limitations of this study in rabbits, the findings showed the presence of inflammatory‐like cells at the early stage of bone regeneration when collagenated xenogenic biomaterials were used compared to xenogenic granules alone. Nevertheless, similar bone formation occurred and comparable 3D volumes were found at 6 months in the different groups.
Trichilemmomas show loss of PTEN in Cowden syndrome but only rarely in sporadic tumors
Authors: Al‐Zaid Tariq , Ditelberg Jeremy S. , Prieto Victor G. , Lev Dina , Luthra Raja , Davies Michael A. , Diwan A. Hafeez , Wang Wei‐Lien , Lazar Alexander J.
Published: February 2012

Background: Trichilemmoma (TL) can occur as a solitary sporadic lesion usually on the face or as multiple facial lesions almost invariably associated with Cowden syndrome (CS). CS is a multisystem disorder caused by a germline inactivating mutation in PTEN (10q23.31), a tumor suppressor gene. We sought to identify PTEN loss by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in sporadic and CS‐associated TL to determine whether IHC is a useful tool to assess an individual for CS.

Methods: Six TL biopsies associated with CS and 33 biopsies without CS were retrieved. IHC for PTEN was performed. Results were scored as positive (reactivity in TL cells) or negative (no reactivity in TL cells); normal squamous epithelium and vascular endothelium served as internal positive controls.

Results: Complete PTEN loss was noted in 5/6 (83%) CS‐associated TL and 1/33 (3%) sporadic (non‐CS) TL.

Conclusion: Demonstration of complete PTEN loss in TL by IHC is strongly suggestive of association with CS, but retention of PTEN staining does not entirely exclude CS. Therefore, PTEN IHC in TLs may be helpful in screening TL for association with CS, but should be used in context with other established clinical criteria, and possibly germline PTEN genotyping to confirm a diagnosis of CS.

Al‐Zaid T, Ditelberg JS, Prieto VG, Lev D, Luthra R, Davies MA, Diwan AH, Wang W‐L, Lazar AJ. Trichilemmomas show loss of PTEN in Cowden syndrome but only rarely in sporadic tumors.
The validity of biochemical markers in metabolic bone disease in preterm infants: a systematic review
Authors: Visser Fenna , Sprij Arwen J , Brus Frank
Published: February 2012

To establish the validity of biochemical markers of metabolic bone disease (MBD) in preterm infants.

Conclusion:  There is insufficient evidence that any of the frequently used serum measurements are valid biochemical markers of MBD in preterm infants. Increased urinary calcium concentration may be a valid biochemical marker, but more research is necessary to confirm this.
Development of a microRNA delivery system based on bacteriophage MS2 virus‐like particles
Authors: Pan Yang , Zhang Yuan , Jia Tingting , Zhang Kuo , Li Jinming , Wang Lunan
Published: February 2012

Recently, microRNA (miRNA)‐mediated RNA interference has been developed as a useful tool in gene function analysis and gene therapy. A major obstacle in miRNA‐mediated RNAi is cellular delivery, which requires an efficient and flexible delivery system. The self‐assembly of the MS2 bacteriophage capsids has been used to develop virus‐like particles (VLPs) for RNA and drug delivery. However, MS2 VLP‐mediated miRNA delivery has not yet been reported. We therefore used an Escherichia coli expression system to produce the pre‐miR 146a contained MS2 VLPs, and then conjugated these particles with HIV‐1 Tat47–57 peptide. The conjugated MS2 VLPs effectively transferred the packaged pre‐miR146a RNA into various cells and tissues, with 0.92–14.76‐fold higher expression of miR‐146a in vitro and about two‐fold higher expression in vivo, and subsequently suppressed its targeting gene. These findings suggest that MS2 VLPs can be used as a novel vehicle in miRNA delivery systems, and may have applications in gene therapy.
Evaluation of Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2) as a heterologous expression host for the cyanobacterial protein kinase C activator lyngbyatoxin A
Authors: Jones Adam C. , Ottilie Sabine , Eustáquio Alessandra S. , Edwards Daniel J. , Gerwick Lena , Moore Bradley S. , Gerwick William H.
Published: February 2012

Filamentous marine cyanobacteria are extremely rich sources of bioactive natural products and often employ highly unusual biosynthetic enzymes in their assembly. However, the current lack of techniques for stable DNA transfer into these filamentous organisms, combined with the absence of heterologous expression strategies for nonribosomal cyanobacterial gene clusters, prohibit the creation of mutant strains or the heterologous production of these cyanobacterial compounds in other bacteria. In this study, we evaluated the capability of a derivative of the model actinomycete Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2) to express enzymes involved in the biosynthesis of the protein kinase C activator lyngbyatoxin A from a Hawaiian strain of Moorea producta (previously classified as Lyngbya majuscula). Despite large differences in GC content between these two bacteria and the presence of rare TTA/UUA leucine codons in lyngbyatoxin ORFs we were able to achieve expression of the cytochrome P450 monooxygenase LtxB and reverse prenyltransferase LtxC in S. coelicolor M512 and confirmed the in vitro functionality of S. coelicolor overexpressed LtxC. Attempts to express the entire lyngbyatoxin A gene cluster in S. coelicolor M512 were not successful because of transcript termination observed for the ltxA gene, which encodes a large nonribosomal peptide synthetase. However, these attempts did show a detectable level of cyanobacterial promoter recognition in Streptomyces. Successful expression of lyngbyatoxin A proteins in Streptomyces provides a new platform for biochemical investigation of natural product enzymes from Moorea strains.
Brain banks as key part of biochemical and molecular studies on cerebral cortex involvement in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Ravid Rivka , Ferrer Isidro
Published: February 2012

Exciting developments in basic and clinical neuroscience and recent progress in the field of Parkinson’s disease (PD) are partly a result of the availability of human specimens obtained through brain banks. These banks have optimized the methodological, managerial and organizational procedures; standard operating procedures; and ethical, legal and social issues, including the code of conduct for 21st Century brain banking and novel protocols. The present minireview focuses on current brain banking organization and management, as well as the likely future direction of the brain banking field. We emphasize the potentials and pitfalls when using high‐quality specimens of the human central nervous system for advancing PD research. PD is a generalized disease in which α‐synuclein is not a unique component but, instead, is only one of the players accounting for the complex impairment of biochemical/molecular processes involved in metabolic pathways. This is particularly important in the cerebral cortex, where altered cognition has a complex neurochemical substrate. Mitochondria and energy metabolism impairment, abnormal RNA, microRNA, protein synthesis, post‐translational protein modifications and alterations in the lipid composition of membranes and lipid rafts are part of these complementary factors. We have to be alert to the possible pitfalls of each specimen and its suitability for a particular study. Not all samples qualify for the study of DNA, RNA, proteins, post‐translational modifications, lipids and metabolomes, although the use of carefully selected samples and appropriate methods minimizes pitfalls and errors and guarantees high‐quality reserach.
Absence of Central Nervous System and Hypothermic Effects after Single Oral Administration of High Doses of Oseltamivir in the Rat
Authors: Freichel Christian , Breidenbach Alexander , Hoffmann Gerhard , Körner Annette , Gatti Silvia , Donner Barbara , Bansod Sudhir , Bellot Muriel , Gand Laurent , Weiser Thomas , Singer Thomas , Prinssen Eric P.
Published: February 2012

Oseltamivir is widely used for the treatment and prophylaxis of influenza. Renewed interest in the central nervous system (CNS) tolerability profile of oseltamivir has been triggered by the reports of neuropsychiatric adverse events in patients with influenza. In addition, a recent pre‐clinical study in rodents suggested a hypothermic effect of oseltamivir. The current studies investigated the CNS effects, body temperature effect and toxicokinetic profile of oseltamivir in rats. The CNS/temperature study included three groups receiving oseltamivir (500, 763 and 1000 mg/kg free base by oral gavage), one vehicle/control group and one reference group (D‐amphetamine, 10 mg/kg). CNS parameters (behaviour, motor activity and co‐ordination and sensory/motor reflex responses) and rectal temperature were measured at baseline and at five intervals until 8 hr after dosing. In the toxicokinetic study, rats received oseltamivir by oral gavage at 763 or 1000 mg/kg free base. Plasma, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and perfused brain concentrations of oseltamivir and its active metabolite, oseltamivir carboxylate (OC), were measured until 8 hr after dosing. Median scores for CNS parameters were similar in controls and animals receiving oseltamivir at all time points. Oseltamivir had no physiologically relevant effect on body temperature, but induced a short‐lived and small dose‐independent decrease in temperature in all active treatment groups at 1 hr after dosing only. Plasma concentrations of OC were higher than of oseltamivir, but the reverse was true in CSF and brain. CNS penetration was low for both moieties. In rats, oseltamivir at supratherapeutic doses up to 1000 mg/kg free base did not exert any effects on CNS function or hypothermic effects and led to limited CNS exposure, resulting in large safety margins.
Sintering Behavior, Properties, and Applications of Co‐Fired Piezoelectric/Low Temperature Co‐Fired Ceramic (PZT‐SKN/LTCC) Multilayer Ceramics
Authors: Zhang Wenli , Eitel Richard E.
Published: February 2012

Materials and processing conditions have been developed allowing co‐firing of fluxed PZT‐SKN materials with commercial low temperature co‐fired ceramic (LTCC) tapes. Previously, Pb(Zr0.53, Ti0.47)O3–Sr(K0.25, Nb0.75)O3 (PZT‐SKN) ceramics fluxed with 1 wt% LiBiO2 and 1 wt% CuO addition were shown to sinter to high density at 900°C for 1 h, with a large d33 piezoelectric coefficient of ~415 pm/V. Currently, the master sintering curve (MSC) approach has been used to study the densification behaviors of fluxed PZT‐SKN and LTCC tapes. Different sintering mechanisms for fluxed PZT‐SKN ceramics and LTCC materials are confirmed by analyzing the apparent activation energy (Qa). Using knowledge gained from MSC results, an optimized sintering profile was developed. Multilayer PZT‐SKN/HL2000 (HeraLock™ Tape, Heraeus) stacks co‐fired at 900°C for 0.5 h maintain large piezoelectric coefficient (high field d33 > 340 pm/V). EDS analysis reveal limited interdiffusion of Pb from PZT‐SKN layers in LTCC and the appearance of Al, Ca, and Si in the PZT‐SKN near the PZT‐SKN/LTCC interface. Further, elemental interdiffusion was not detected at the center of piezoelectric layer in PZT‐SKN/LTCC multilayer ceramics and no subsequent reduction in piezoelectric coefficient d33 was observed. Finally, a piezoelectric microbalance with mass sensitivity of 150 kHz/mg was fabricated using the materials and methods developed.
The Ranging Costs of a Fallback Food: Liana Consumption Supplements Diet but Increases Foraging Effort in Howler Monkeys
Authors: Dunn Jacob C. , Asensio Norberto , Arroyo‐Rodríguez Victor , Schnitzer Stefan , Cristóbal‐Azkarate Jurgi
Published: February 2012

Lianas are important components in the dynamics of tropical forests and represent fallback foods for some primates, yet little is known about their impact on primate ecology, behavior or fitness. Using 2 yr of field data, we investigated liana consumption and foraging effort in four groups of howler monkeys (two in bigger, more conserved forest fragments and two in smaller, less conserved fragments) to assess whether howler monkeys use lianas when and where food availability is scarce, and how liana consumption is related to foraging effort. Howler monkeys in smaller fragments spent more time consuming lianas and liana consumption was negatively related to the consumption of preferred food resources (fruit and Ficus spp.). Further, travel time was positively related to liana feeding time, but not to tree feeding time, and howler monkeys visited a greater number of food patches when feeding from liana leaves than when feeding from tree leaves. Our results suggest that these increases in foraging effort were related to the fact that lianas are mainly a source of leaves, and that liana patch size was probably smaller than tree patch size. While these results were clear when analyzing all four groups combined, however, they were not always significant in each of the groups individually. We suggest that this may be related to the differences in group size, patch size and the availability of resources among groups. Further studies are necessary to assess whether these dietary and behavioral adjustments negatively impact on the fitness and conservation of primates in fragments.
Effects of Local Plant Density and Incomplete Dichogamy on the Reproductive Success of the Rare Neotropical PalmGeonoma epetiolata
Authors: Martén‐Rodríguez Silvana , Quesada Mauricio , Momen Braham
Published: February 2012

Density dependent processes are known to influence reproduction and establishment of plant populations. In this study, we evaluated the effects of local density and sexual expression on the reproductive success of the rare palm speciesGeonoma epetiolatainCostaRica. We classified individuals in two density categories based on distances to the two nearest neighbors and recorded the occurrence of sexual overlap on each individual. Overlap between pistillate and staminate flowers in monoecious plants allows geitonogamous pollination, potentially reducing dependence on mates for reproduction. We measured plant size and light availability, and evaluated the influence of these variables on pollination success, fruit production, fruit abortion and seed mass. Pollination success significantly increased with density but there was no effect of sexual overlap. In contrast, there was no effect of density on the probability of initiated fruit, and a negative effect on fruit set. Fruit abortion was lowest in isolated plants with no sexual overlap. Plant size and light did not contribute to variation in reproductive success. In conclusion, the pollination advantage of plants in dense neighborhoods does not compensate reproductive losses incurred by fruit abortion, possibly due to mating among genetically related individuals.Geonoma epetiolatais threatened by habitat loss and poaching of seeds for the horticultural market. High fruit abortion rates associated with density inG. epetiolatasuggest that seed collections from the remnant wild populations of this palm species may cause bottlenecks that further threaten population viability.
Lack of Association between Air Pollutant Exposure and Short-Term Risk of Ischaemic Stroke in Lyon, France
Authors: Mechtouff Laura , Canoui-Poitrine Florence , Schott Anne-Marie , Nighoghossian Norbert , Trouillas Paul , Termoz Anne , Porthault-Chatard Sylvie , David Jean-Stephane , Chasles Virginie , Derex Laurent
Published: February 2012

Background

Some observational and experimental studies have suggested a short-term relationship between air pollutants and ischaemic stroke; however, the results conflict.

Aims

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between particulate matter less than 2·5 and 10 microns in aerodynamic diameter, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and ozone, and short-term risk of ischaemic stroke in Lyon, France.

Methods

The AVC69 study was a multicenter cohort study in which all consecutive adult patients admitted to one of the emergency or neurological departments of the Rhone area for suspicion of stroke were included during a seven-month period. Only patients with ischaemic stroke living within the study area, composed of Lyon and 18 neighbouring communities with homogenous air pollutants exposure, formed the basis of our study. We adopted a time-stratified case-crossover design to analyse the short-term effect (up to two-days) of air pollutants on ischaemic stroke incidence. Models were adjusted for temperature, variation of atmospheric pressure, minimal relative humidity, influenza epidemics, pollen count, and holidays. Stratified analyses by gender and class age were performed. Different lag times were analysed.

Results

376 patients were included. Mean age was 76·6 years (±13·7). 53·7% were women. No association was observed between air pollutants and short-term risk of ischaemic stroke after adjustment for main confounding factors. Results remained unchanged whatever the gender or age.

Conclusions

These results suggest a lack of association between air pollutant exposure and short-term risk of ischaemic stroke in a French urban area.
Quality of Life in Rural and Urban Adults 65 Years and Older: Findings From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Baernholdt Marianne , Yan Guofen , Hinton Ivora , Rose Karen , Mattos Meghan
Published: February 2012

Purpose: The proportion of people over 65 years of age is higher in rural areas than in urban areas, and their numbers are expected to increase in the next decade. This study used Andersen's behavioral model to examine quality of life (QOL) in a nationally representative sample of community‐dwelling adults 65 years and older according to geographic location. Specifically, associations between 3 dimensions of QOL (health‐related QOL [HQOL], social functioning, and emotional well‐being) and needs and health behaviors were examined.

Methods: The 2005‐2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination survey was linked with the 2007 Area Resources File via the National Center for Health Statistics’ remote access system. Frequencies and distribution patterns were assessed according to rural, adjacent, and urban locations.

Findings: Older adults reported high levels of QOL; however, rural older adults had lower social functioning than their urban counterparts. Older blacks and Hispanics had lower scores than whites on 2 dimensions of QOL. Associations between QOL and needs and health behaviors varied. Although activities of daily living were associated with all 3 dimensions, others were associated with 1 or 2 dimensions.

Conclusions: The lower scores on social functioning in rural areas suggest that rural older adults may be socially isolated. Older rural adults may need interventions to maintain physical and mental health, strengthen social relationships and support, and increase their participation in the community to promote QOL. In addition, older blacks and Hispanics seem more vulnerable than whites and may need more assistance.
Insights from the experiences of older people with hearing impairment in the United Kingdom: recommendations for nurse‐led rehabilitation
Authors: Bennion Amy , Forshaw Mark J.
Published: February 2012

Aims and objectives.  This study aims to explore, and develop a greater understanding of the experience of living with age‐related hearing impairment from the perspectives of older people themselves to highlight possible recommendations for the improvement of hearing aid (HA) services and rehabilitation.

Background.  Hearing impairment (HI) is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting older people. HI can have a huge impact on a wide variety of life factors including physical, mental and social health and can lead to a reduction in quality of life. With the current ageing population, the numbers living with hearing impairment in old age is likely to increase. Currently, the diagnosis of hearing impairment in older people can be slow with individuals living with hearing impairment for around 10 years before being diagnosed.

Methods.  The research utilises a descriptive qualitative method in the form of descriptive thematic analysis. Findings are reported from semi‐structured interviews with nine participants with self‐reported HI, aged 61–93.

Results.  Themes include; the loss itself, communication, using HAs, isolation, and coping strategies.

Conclusions and implications for practice.  The results highlight the need for early diagnosis of HI and the development of nurse‐led rehabilitation strategies and support services that address the felt stigma and potentially isolating experiences of older people with HI.
Ambiguities: residents’ experience of ‘nursing home as my home’
Authors: Nakrem Sigrid , Vinsnes Anne G. , Harkless Gene E. , Paulsen Bård , Seim Arnfinn
Published: February 2012

Background.  Residential care in nursing homes continues to be necessary for those individuals who are no longer able to live at home. Uncovering what nursing home residents’ view as quality of care in nursing homes will help further understanding of how best to provide high quality, person‐centred care.

Aim.  To describe residents’ experiences of living in a nursing home related to quality of care.

Design.  The study utilises a descriptive exploratory design.

Method.  In‐depth interviews were undertaken with 15 residents who were not cognitively impaired, aged 65 and over and living in one of four nursing homes. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed by categorising of meaning.

Results.  Residents perceived the nursing home as their home, but at the same time not ‘a home’. This essential ambiguity created the tension from which the categories of perceptions of quality emerged. Four main categories of quality of care experience were identified: ‘Being at home in a nursing home’, ‘Paying the price for 24‐hour care’, ‘Personal habits and institutional routines’, and ‘Meaningful activities for a meaningful day’.

Conclusions.  Ambiguities concerning the nursing home as a home and place to live, a social environment in which the residents experience most of their social life and the institution where professional health service is provided were uncovered. High‐quality care was when ambiguities were managed well and a home could be created within the institution.

Implication for practice.  Achieving quality care in nursing homes requires reconciling the ambiguities of the nursing home as a home. This implies helping residents to create a private home distinct from the professional home, allowing residents’ personal habits to guide institutional routines and supporting meaningful activities. Using these resident developed quality indicators is an important step in improving nursing home services.
Hand hygiene practices of veterinary support staff in small animal private practice
Authors: Nakamura R. K. , Tompkins E. , Braasch E. L. , Martinez J. G. , Bianco D.
Published: February 2012

Objective:
To evaluate the hand hygiene (HH) practices among veterinary technicians (VT) and veterinary support staff (VSS) in small animal private practice.

Methods:
This was a prospective questionnaire‐based study involving 182 VT and VSS from 18 small animal hospitals in the USA. Questions asked included gender, number of animals handled per work shift, frequency of hand washing, reason for not washing more frequently, most common available hand washing agent, education regarding the importance of HH and frequency of ring wearing.

Results:
Less than half of the respondents [76 of 182 (41·7%)] reported washing their hands regularly between handling patients and 154 of 182 (85·6%) believed they should have washed more frequently. The most commonly employed HH agent was hand soap [154 of 182 (84·6%)] and the most common reason cited for not washing more frequently was being too busy [132 of 182 (72·5%)]. Only 96 of 182 (52·7%) respondents were educated by doctors at their hospital regarding the importance of HH.

Clinical Significance:
The HH practices among VT and VSS in small animal private practice is poor. Hand soap was the most commonly employed agent among respondents in this study. Education of VT and VSS regarding the importance of HH requires improvement.
Process of implementation and development of early psychosis clinical services in Italy: a survey
Authors: Ghio Lucio , Natta Werner , Peruzzo Laura , Gotelli Simona , Tibaldi Giuseppe , Ferrannini Luigi
Published: February 2012

Aim: To carry out an in‐depth survey into the method of providing early intervention in schizophrenia in Italy and to evaluate the process of development of early psychosis clinical services following the pilot programme ‘Programma 2000’ and the publishing of Italian National Guidelines.

Methods: Topic‐specific national and international clinical and research programmes, alongside national guidelines, were taken into consideration in order to create an ad hoc questionnaire. A telephone survey using this questionnaire was carried out. A randomized sample of 152 mental health centres (MHCs) were involved, equal to 21.5% of all Italian MHCs.

Results: The process of nationwide diffusion of early psychosis clinical services in Italy is frustratingly slow. Italian MHCs, including a specialized service for early interventions in schizophrenia, are estimated at being between 20% and 30%. Most services adopt a generalist approach and more frequently follow guidelines drawn up within the centres than Italian National Guidelines, involve few patients and provide a high variability of treatment options. The distribution of these services in Italy is not homogenous and influenced by demographic factors.

Conclusion: Our data are consistent with worldwide literature showing a slow and variable implementation of early psychosis services in all nations. The main efforts to make these services diffused should be addressed to favour the process of localized adaptation to the guidelines, to demand possible and realistic implementation of the standard method, to stimulate policy endorsement and resources' allocation, and to particularly support the rural and the poorer zones.
What contributes to self‐rated oral health among community‐dwelling older adults? Findings from the ElderSmile program
Authors: Northridge Mary E. , Chakraborty Bibhas , Kunzel Carol , Metcalf Sara , Marshall Stephen , Lamster Ira B.
Published: February 2012

Objectives: As part of ongoing efforts by the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine to devise community‐based models of health promotion and care for local residents, we sought to answer the following query: “What contributes to self‐rated oral health among community‐dwelling older adults?”

Methods: The present study is cross sectional in design and centrally concerned with baseline data collected during community‐based screenings of adults aged 50 years and older who agreed to participate in the ElderSmile program in northern Manhattan, New York City. The primary outcome measure of interest is self‐rated oral health, which was assessed as follows: “Overall, how would you rate the health of your teeth and gums – excellent, good, fair, or poor?”

Results: More than a quarter (28.5 percent) of ElderSmile participants aged 50 years and older reported that their oral health was poor. After adjustment for age (in years), place of birth, educational level, and dental insurance status in a logistic regression model, recent visits to the dentist (within the past year versus more than a year ago) contributed to better self‐rated oral health and non‐Hispanic Black race/ethnicity, dentate (versus edentulous) status, tooth decay as measured by decayed missing filled teeth, and severe periodontal inflammation contributed to worse self‐rated oral health in this population.

Conclusions: Recent dental care contributed to better self‐rated oral health among community‐dwelling older adults living in northern Manhattan. Significant gradients were evident in the caries experience and periodontal inflammation of dentate adults by self‐rated oral health, suggesting that untreated oral disease contributes to poor self‐rated oral health.
Changes in nuclear ribonucleoprotein constituents and chromatin disposition during neuronal differentiation and maturation
Authors: Vazquez‐Nin G. H. , Ortega‐Rangel J. A. , Echeverria O. M. , Parra M. R. , Jimenez‐Garcia L. F.
Published: February 2012

Morphological and quantitative changes of ribonucleoproteic (RNP) structures and chromatin are studied in the nuclei of undifferentiated cells, neuroblasts and neurons in several degrees of maturation, in order to relate them to the drastic modifications in transcription and/or RNA processing taking place during cell differentiation. Undifferentiated (matrix) cells of 2‐day embryos differ from that of 4‐day embryos in their nucleolar volume and in the amount of compact chromatin. These differences are interpreted as the earliest signs of neuroblast differentiation. All over the process of matrix cell‐bipolar‐multipolar neuroblast differentiation there is a large spreading of compact chromatin well before any important change in RNP structures or in nuclear volume. The most remarkable increase in nuclear volume and in the amount of RNP particles occurs during the differentiation of multipolar neuroblasts to immature neurons, which is characterized by large synaptogenic activity. The interpretation of these changes is discussed in connection, on one hand with the metabolic effects of synapses, and on the other hand with the variations of gene expression taking place in cell differentiation and under other natural and experimental situations.
Hormone dependence of the L and M isozymes of pyruvate kinase in isolated rat hepatocytes
Authors: Gali P. , Broer Y. , Rosselin G. , Hartmann L.
Published: February 2012

L Pyruvate kinase (LPK) is considered to be the major form in the liver. Two isozymes, LPK and MPK, have been localized in the isolated rat hepatocyte in vitro with an immunocytometric method. MPK is induced by insulin, which also creates a slight stimulation of LPK (at physiological doses) in both fed and fasted animals. Glucagon inhibits LPK in fed animals (the fasting rat is already in a situation of gluconeogenesis and this hormone is ineffective). MPK is insensitive to glucagon, regardless of the nutritional state of the animals. Each PK isozyme is thus controlled predominantly by one of the two hormones, corresponding to a sophisticated regulation of hepatic glycolysis and gluconeogenesis.
Recovery of acetylcholinesterase and of its multiple molecular forms in motor end‐plate‐free and motor end‐plate‐rich regions of mouse striated muscle, after irreversible inactivation by an organophosphorus compound (methyl‐phosphorothiolate derivative)
Authors: Goudou D. , Rieger F.
Published: February 2012

Most of mouse diaphragm muscle acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is irreversibly inhibited after a single intraperitoneal injection of a methyl‐phosphorothiolate derivative (MPT), an organophosphorus compound which phosphorylates the active site. The muscle recovers its AChE (de novo synthesis) and we studied the time course of reappearance of AChE and its multiple active molecular forms. After inhibition, there is an initial (3 to 15 hr) rapid recovery of total AChE (which evolves from 20‐28% to 50‐60% of the control values), followed by a slow phase of AChE return. After 3 days, the recovery is still incomplete (reaching 70‐80% of control values). Among the main molecular forms present in diaphragm muscle (16 S, 10 S and 4 S, accompanied by minor components), the 16 S and 10 S forms are the most sensitive to MPT treatment. During the rapid initial phase of AChE recovery, the absolute rate of recovery of the 4 S form is faster than for the other forms with a correspondingly much higher relative proportion to total AChE. These observations are consistent with the hypothesized precursor role of the 4 S form. The 16 S form, which is found concentrated in the motor end‐plate (MEP)‐rich regions and in low amounts in MEP‐free regions, is similarly partially recovered in both regions, suggesting that there is 16 S biosynthesis not only in the MEP‐rich regions but also in the MEP‐free regions.
Isolated hepatocytes fixed on collagen, an accurate model for the the secretion of proteins in a minimal medium. Response to inflammation
Authors: Davy J. , Appel M. , Biou D. , Feger J. , Agneray J.
Published: February 2012

The albumin, orosomucoid and alpha 2‐macroglobulin secretion by isolated hepatocytes of normal and suffering from Turpentine‐induced inflammation rats, is investigated for 4 hr. The model, stable over the whole duration of incubation, is a true reflect of hepatic secretion in vivo and can be used to measure it.
Ultrastructural localization of DNA in tissue culture cell nuclei by means of enzyme‐gold and autoimmune sera‐protein A‐gold techniques
Authors: Raska I. , Armbruster B. L. , Jíra M. , Hána I. , Kaslík J. , Rovenský J. , Smetana K.
Published: February 2012

The post‐embedding localization of DNA was investigated in cell nuclei by means of DNase I‐gold and autoimmune sera‐protein A‐gold techniques. Using the former technique, gold particles were found mainly over euchromatin, nucleoli exhibit occasionally high labeling. In the latter technique, the use of the serum binding dsDNA confined the label mainly to condensed chromatin.
Nucleolar lesions induced by ribonuclease in living cultured cells
Authors: Chobert M. N. , Pouchelet M. , Anteunis A. , Gansmuller A. , Robineaux R.
Published: February 2012

The nucleolar lesions provoked by the action of ribonuclease (RNase) on living chick embryo fibroblasts were studied by means of microcinematographic analysis and at the ultrastructural level using oxidized diaminobenzidine as a differentially contrasting stain for nucleic acids. This study has shown that the induction of nucleolar dispersion by RNase was only the beginning of a series of discrete steps. The following sequences are described: dispersion of the nucleolus into fragments, their reassembly, and the emission of spherules which appear of chromatin origin. At that step nucleoli are typically segregated. The alteration of the nucleolar associated chromatin seemed to be primordial in these processes. Moreover, the large mass of heterochromatin intimately associated with the nucleolus and which has been considered to be a part of the nucleolar organizer region apparently plays a chief part in the reassembly of the nucleolar fragments into a segregated nucleolus. Ribonuclease is compared to other drugs known to act on nucleolar DNA.
Thyrotropin effects on vesicle transfer and thyroid follicle morphogenesis: a stereological study in the rat
Authors: Remy L. , Penel C. , Rua S. , Mazzella E. , Michel‐Bechet M.
Published: February 2012

Incubation in a culture medium with and without TSH of 16 day‐old foetal thyroid glands induces hypertrophy of the Golgi apparatus which may be correlated with a considerable increase in the number of secretory vesicles. A stereological study performed during the first 6 hr of incubation showed that: vesicle secretion was biphasic; vesicle secretion was heterogeneous with two different populations of vesicles; When TSH (20 mU and 80 mU) was added to the medium, the volume density of the follicular lumina increased; at least during the first 6 hr TSH seemed to be necessary to the formation of follicular lumina.
Study of the effect of 2 inhibitors of nucleotide synthesis, aminopterin and fluorodeoxyuridine, on wild type strains and vestigial mutants in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Le Menn A. , Silber J. , Goux J. M.
Published: February 2012

Two inhibitors of nucleotide metabolism, aminopterin and FUdR, were tested on a wild type strain, on two mutant strains: vg and vgnp, and on a vg strain with the wild type genetic background. Without inhibitors, a lengthening of the developing time was observed for the mutant strains compared to the wild type. With aminopterin, larval mortality and lengthening of developing time are significantly higher in the wild type than in the mutant strains. Mutant strains seemed to be resistant to low concentrations of FUdR. The hypothesis of a perturbed pyrimidine metabolism in the mutants seems to be confirmed.
Biochemical and electron microscope radioautographic study of intestinal absorption of tritiated palmitic and oleic acids in control and actidione‐cycloheximide‐treated rats
Authors: Bernard A. , Carlier H.
Published: February 2012

Intestinal absorption of tritiated palmitic and oleic acids was investigated in control and actidione‐cycloheximide‐treated rats. Pancreatic juice was collected and 24 hr later an intestinal loop was cannulated in situ. A 90 mumole‐lipid emulsion composed of an equimolar mixture of monopalmitin, palmitic and oleic acids with bile was infused with either 3H‐labeled palmitic or oleic acid. After 15 or 30 min biochemical analysis was carried out to follow the uptake and the transfer of the labeled fatty acids. Mucosa was removed for both biochemical analysis of lipid classes and the ultrastructural or radioautographic electron microscope study depending on the radioactive activity. Following actidione‐cycloheximide treatment, the uptake of both fatty acids decreased, but the amount of lipids in the mucosa greatly increased, while amount of the reesterification of fatty acids in the mucosa diminished. Consequently the amount of infused palmitic acid which was transferred in 15 min decreased from 36% in the absence of treatment to 4.6% when treatment was used. The corresponding figures for oleic acid are 70% and 20.9%. Unstructured lipids were in the intercellular spaces, indicating that a cytotoxic effect had occurred which produced a defect in the lipoprotein particle organization. The Golgi complex, in the final step of the chylomicron synthesis before exocytosis, showed low level of radioautographic reaction indicating less participation by the complex in lipid transfer. The various processes which were inhibited during long‐chain fatty acid absorption from the luminal area to the Golgi complex included fatty acid binding by proteins, enzymatic acylation and esterification, apoprotein participation. This inhibition explains why long‐chain fatty acid absorption was greatly impaired. Moreover, our observations compared with those obtained during decanoic acid absorption, particularly our radioautography based observations, emphasize the important role of the Golgi complex which requires intense membrane turnover during lipid absorption.
Localization of measles virus nucleic acid sequences in infected cells by in situ hybridization
Authors: Fournier J. G. , Rozenblatt S. , Bouteille M.
Published: February 2012

Vero cells were infected with measles virus and hybridized in situ to a cloned DNA fragment containing specific sequences for measles nucleocapsid protein. The DNA was labelled with tritium by nick‐translation. The viral RNA were detected in the cytoplasm 21 hrs after infection. In many cells, the probe hybridized to nuclear structures, and in several mitotic cells, to chromosomes. After 36 hrs of infection, hybridization sites were found both in the center and in many nuclei of all the polykaryons. These results indicate that cellular distribution of viral RNA molecules varies in the course of infection. They further suggest that the nucleus plays a more active role than expected in measles virus transcription and replication.