bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-Term Safety of Anti-TNF Adalimumab in HBc Antibody-Positive Psoriatic Arthritis Patients: A Retrospective Case Series of 8 Patients
Authors: Laurenti R. , Giovannangeli F. , Gubinelli E. , Viviano M. T. , Errico A. , Leoni L. , Ballanti E. , Migliore A.
Published: March 2013

Immunosuppressive drugs commonly used in the treatment of psoriatic arthritis make patients more susceptible to viral, bacterial, and fungal infections because of their mechanism of action. They not only increase the risk of new infections but also act altering the natural course of preexisting infections. While numerous data regarding the reactivation of tuberculosis infection are available in the literature, poor information about the risk of reactivation or exacerbation of hepatitis viruses B and C infections during treatment with biologics has been reported. Furthermore, reported series with biological therapy included short periods of followup, and therefore, they are not adequate to verify the risk of reactivation in the long-term treatment. Our study evaluated patients with a history of hepatitis B and psoriatic arthritis treated with adalimumab and monitored up to six years. During the observation period, treatment was effective and well tolerated in all patients, and liver function tests and viral load levels remained unchanged.
Comparison of Organ Location, Morphology, and Rib Coverage of a Midsized Male in the Supine and Seated Positions
Authors: Hayes Ashley R. , Gayzik F. Scott , Moreno Daniel P. , Martin R. Shayn , Stitzel Joel D.
Published: March 2013

The location and morphology of abdominal organs due to postural changes have implications in the prediction of trauma via computational models. The purpose of this study is to use data from a multimodality image set to devise a method for examining changes in organ location, morphology, and rib coverage from the supine to seated postures. Medical images of a male volunteer (78.6±0.77 kg, 175 cm) in three modalities (Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Upright MRI) were used. Through image segmentation and registration, an analysis between organs in each posture was conducted. For the organs analyzed (liver, spleen, and kidneys), location was found to vary between postures. Increases in rib coverage from the supine to seated posture were observed for the liver, with a 9.6% increase in a lateral projection and a 4.6% increase in a frontal projection. Rib coverage area was found to increase 11.7% for the spleen. Morphological changes in the organs were also observed. The liver expanded 7.8% cranially and compressed 3.4% and 5.2% in the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral directions, respectively. Similar trends were observed in the spleen and kidneys. These findings indicate that the posture of the subject has implications in computational human body model development.
A General Iteration Formula of VIM for Fractional Heat- and Wave-Like Equations
Authors: Yin Fukang , Song Junqiang , Cao Xiaoqun
Published: March 2013

A general iteration formula of variational iteration method (VIM) for fractional heat- and wave-like equations with variable coefficients is derived. Compared with previous work, the Lagrange multiplier of the method is identified in a more accurate way by employing Laplace’s transform of fractional order. The fractional derivative is considered in Jumarie’s sense. The results are more accurate than those obtained by classical VIM and the same as ADM. It is shown that the proposed iteration formula is efficient and simple.
Mitotically Active Plexiform Fibrohistiocytic Tumor
Authors: Zemheri Ebru , Özkanlı Şeyma , Şenol Serkan , Ozen Filiz , Ulukaya Durakbaşa Cigdem , Zindancı İlkin , Okur Hamit
Published: March 2013

Plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor is an intermediate malignant tumor situated in superficial soft tissues. It affects children and young adults. The tumor is most commonly located on upper extremities, whereas involvement of back region is rare. Mitotic activity is generally low (~3/10 HPF). It is rare, but it can exhibit aggressive behavior, so total excision with clear surgical margins and long-term followup is necessary to detect local recurrence and metastases. We report a child with a solid mass on back region which was found to be a mitotically active plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor (6/10 HPF) after excision. Plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor (PFT) is a mesenchymal neoplasm of children, adolescents, and young adults. It is characterized by fibrohistiocytic cytomorphology and multinodular growth pattern. Clinically it is usually a slow-growing mass of upper extremities with frequent local recurrence and rare regional lymphatic and systemic metastasis (Fletcher et al. (2002), Enzinger and Zhang (1988), Remstein et al. (1999)).
Five-Year Survival after Surgery for Invasive Micropapillary Carcinoma of the Stomach
Authors: Ninomiya Shigeo , Sonoda Kazuya , Shiroshita Hidefumi , Bandoh Toshio , Arita Tsuyoshi
Published: March 2013

Invasive micropapillary carcinoma (IMPC) of the breast, urinary bladder, ovary, and colon has been reported. However, few reports have described IMPC of the stomach. In addition, IMPC has been described as a histological indicator for lymphatic invasion and nodal metastasis, resulting in poor prognosis. We report a case of 5-year survival after surgery for IPMC of the stomach. A 69-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with symptoms of upper abdominal pain. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a tumor at the antrum of the stomach. Histological examination of the biopsy specimen indicated poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. The patient underwent distal gastrectomy with lymph node dissection. Microscopic examination of the specimen revealed that the tumor consisted of an invasive micropapillary component. Carcinoma cell clusters were floating in the clear spaces. The patient recovered uneventfully and remains alive without recurrence 5 years after surgery.
Risk-Based Screening for Thyroid Dysfunction during Pregnancy
Authors: Ohashi Masanao , Furukawa Seishi , Michikata Kaori , Kai Katsuhide , Sameshima Hiroshi , Ikenoue Tsuyomu
Published: March 2013

Objective. We conducted the study to see the incidence of thyroid dysfunction in women with obstetrical high-risk factors.Methods. We retrospectively reviewed medical charts of high-risk pregnant women who had examination for thyroid function during pregnancy. Women were divided according to clinical presentation, symptoms of thyroid disease and those with a personal history of thyroid disease (thyroid disease,n=32), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR,n=115), diabetes mellitus (diabetes,n=115), hypertension (n=63), intrauterine fetal death (IUFD,n=52), and placental abruption (abruption,n=15). The incidence of thyroid dysfunctions including hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism was compared.Results. The overall prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was 24.7%. The incidence of thyroid dysfunction in each group was as follows: 31% in thyroid disease, 25% in IUGR, 30% in diabetes, 27% in hypertension, 12% in IUFD, and 7% in abruption. Except IUFD, the incidence was not statistically significant from the group of thyroid disease (thyroid disease versus IUFD,P=0.03byχ2test). Thyroid disease represented for only 10% of all thyroid dysfunctions.Conclusion. Testing of women with a personal history or current symptoms of thyroid disease during pregnancy may be insufficient to detect women with thyroid dysfunction, who will become at high-risk pregnancy.
The Impact of an Algorithm-Guided Management of Preoperative Anemia in Perioperative Hemoglobin Level and Transfusion of Major Orthopedic Surgery Patients
Authors: Enko Dietmar , Wallner Franz , von-Goedecke Achim , Hirschmugl Christa , Auersperg Vinzenz , Halwachs-Baumann Gabriele
Published: March 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate a laboratory-guided therapeutic algorithm of preoperative anemia. 335 patients with elective hip or knee arthroplasty were included in this retrospective before-after study. Group I (n= 101) underwent conventional preoperative procedures before algorithm implementation. Group II (n= 234) underwent algorithm-guided preoperative anemia management. A hemoglobin-level of 13 g/dL was the therapeutic cut-off for men and women. Reticulocyte hemoglobin content (CHr) and soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR)/log ferritin ratio were used in the form of the Thomas plot. Iron deficiency (ID) was substituted with 1000 mg iron intravenous (i.v.) and 10000 international units (I.U.) of erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) subcutaneous (s.c.) or i.v., anemia of chronic disease (ACD) (without functional ID) with 40000 I.U. ESA s.c. or i.v and additionally 200 mg iron i.v. Substituted anemic patients in Group II (n=32) showed a distinctly higher preoperative (Hb-median 13 versus 11.95 g/dL) (P<0.01) and postoperative (Hb-median 9.75 versus 9.0 g/dL) (P<0.05) Hb level compared with untreated anemic patients in Group I (n=24). In Group II red blood cell (RBC) units (35 units/234 patients) were reduced by 44% compared with Group I (27 units/101 patients). Algorithm-guided preoperative anemia management raises perioperative Hb-level and reduces blood use.
Effectiveness of Heparin during Long-Term Tocolysis
Authors: Inagaki Tetsunori , Makino Shintaro , Yorifuji Takashi , Sugimura Motoi , Takeda Satoru
Published: March 2013

Objective. Drip infusion during long-term tocolysis causes mechanical and infectious vasculitis and increases the frequency of peripheral venous catheter exchange (PVC), thereby placing a burden on patients. Our study aim is to confirm whether heparin ameliorates pain due to vasculitis during long-term tocolysis and reduces the frequency of peripheral venous catheter exchange. Design. Prospective study. Setting and Sample. All the patients requiring admission because of the presence of uterine contraction or progressive cervical dilatation from August 2009 to June 2011 at Juntendo University in Japan. Methods. Heparin was used for patients at the time the total number of peripheral venous catheter exchanges exceeded 5 in two weeks, and we evaluated whether heparin reduced the frequency of peripheral venous catheter exchange and improved the visual analog scale (VAS) for patients. The main outcome measures frequency of PVC exchange and VAS. Results. This study demonstrated that heparin reduced the frequency of peripheral venous catheter exchange () and VAS (). No side effects were noted. Conclusion. Heparin could satisfy patients during long-term tocolysis in terms of ameliorating pain due to vasculitis and reducing the PVC exchange frequency.
Dynamic Imaging of Marrow-Resident Granulocytes Interacting with Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells upon Systemic Lipopolysaccharide Challenge
Authors: Myers Jay T. , Barkauskas Deborah S. , Huang Alex Y.
Published: March 2013

Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) have gained intense research interest due to their immune-modulatory, tissue differentiating, and homing properties to sites of inflammation. Despite evidence demonstrating the biodistribution of infused hMSCs in target organs using static fluorescence imaging or whole-body imaging techniques, surprisingly little is known about how hMSCs behave dynamically within host tissues on a single-cell levelin vivo. Here, we infused fluorescently labeled clinical-grade hMSCs into immune-competent mice in which neutrophils and monocytes express a second fluorescent marker under the lysozyme M (LysM) promoter. Using intravital two-photon microscopy (TPM), we were able for the first time to capture dynamic interactions between hMSCs and LysM+granulocytes in the calvarium bone marrow of recipient mice during systemic LPS challenge in real time. Interestingly, many of the infused hMSCs remained intact despite repeated cellular contacts with host neutrophils. However, we were able to observe the destruction and subsequent phagocytosis of some hMSCs by surrounding granulocytes. Thus, our imaging platform provides opportunities to gain insight into the biology and therapeutic mechanisms of hMSCsin vivoat a single-cell level within live hosts.
On Complete Spacelike Hypersurfaces in a Semi-Riemannian Warped Product
Authors: Wang Yaning , Liu Ximin
Published: March 2013

By applying Omori-Yau maximal principal theory and supposing an appropriate restriction on the norm of gradient of height function, we obtain some new Bernstein-type theorems for complete spacelike hypersurfaces with nonpositive constant mean curvature immersed in a semi-Riemannian warped product. Furthermore, some applications of our main theorems for entire vertical graphs in Robertson-Walker spacetime and for hypersurfaces in hyperbolic space are given.
Large-Eddy Simulation of the Aerodynamic and Aeroacoustic Performance of a Ventilation Fan
Authors: Bianchi Stefano , Borello Domenico , Corsini Alessandro , Rispoli Franco , Sheard Anthony G.
Published: March 2013

There are controversial requirements involved in developing numerical methodologies in order to compute the flow in industrial fans. The full resolution of turbulence spectrum in such high-Reynolds number flow configurations entails unreasonably expensive computational costs. The authors applied the study to a large unidirectional axial flow fan unit for tunnel ventilation to operate in the forward direction under ambient conditions. This delivered cooling air to the tunnel under routine operation, or hot gases at 400∘C under emergency conditions in the event of a tunnel fire. The simulations were carried out using the open source code OpenFOAM, within which they implemented a very large eddy simulation (VLES) based on one-equation SGS model to solve a transport equation for the modelled (subgrid) turbulent kinetic energy. This subgrid turbulence model improvement is a remedial strategy in VLES of high-Reynolds number industrial flows which are able to tackle the turbulence spectrum’s well-known insufficient resolution. The VLES of the industrial fan permits detecting the unsteady topology of the rotor flow. This paper explores the evolution of secondary flow phenomena and speculates on its influence on the actual load capability when operating at peak-pressure condition. Predicted noise emissions, in terms of sound pressure level spectra, are also compared with experimental results and found to agree within the uncertainty of the measurements.
The Nectarine Pit as a Cause for Small Bowel Obstruction and Perforation: A Case Report
Authors: Al-Najjar Mahmoud , Arthur Thomas
Published: March 2013

Ingestion of a foreign body is a rare cause of small bowel obstruction. Ingested foreign bodies will usually pass without clinical sequelae, however on occasion can contribute to significant morbidity. Here we present an unusual case of small bowel obstruction and perforation as a result of accidental ingestion of a nectarine pit.
Interaction between Pirenzepine and Ninjinto, a Traditional Japanese Herbal Medicine, on the Plasma Gut-Regulated Peptide Levels in Humans
Authors: Sato Yuhki , Hiroki Itoh , Suzuki Yosuke , Tatsuta Ryosuke , Takeyama Masaharu
Published: March 2013

The Japanese herbal medicine (Kampo) Ninjinto has been used for the treatment of gastroenteritis, esogastritis, gastric atony, gastrectasis, vomiting, and anorexia. The pharmacological effects of Ninjinto on the gastrointestine are due to changes in the levels of gut-regulated peptide, such as motilin, somatostatin, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), substance P, and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP). The release of these peptides is controlled by acetylcholine (ACh) from the preganglionic fibers of the parasympathetic nerve. Thus, we examined the effects of the selective M1 muscarinic receptor antagonist pirenzepine on the elevation of Ninjinto-induced plasma the area under the plasma gut-regulated peptide concentration-time curve from 0 to 240 min () in humans. Oral pretreatment with pirenzepine significantly reduced the Ninjinto-induced elevation of plasma motilin and substance P release (). Combined treatment with Ninjinto and pirenzepine significantly increased the release of plasma somatostatin () compared with administration of Ninjinto alone or placebo. Ninjinto appeared to induce the release of substance P and motilin into plasma mainly through the activation of M1 muscarinic receptors, and pirenzepine may affect the pharmacologic action of Ninjinto by the elevation of plasma substance P, motilin, and somatostatin.
A Note on the Semi-Inverse Method and a Variational Principle for the Generalized KdV-mKdV Equation
Authors: Yao Li , Yang Yun-Jie , Zhou Xing-Wei
Published: March 2013

Ji-Huan He systematically studied the inverse problem of calculus of variations. This note reveals that the semi-inverse method also works for a generalized KdV-mKdV equation with nonlinear terms of any orders.
Serial Diffusion MRI to Monitor and Model Treatment Response of the Targeted Nanotherapy CRLX101
Authors: Ng Thomas S.C. , Wert David , Sohi Hargun , Procissi Daniel , Colcher David , Raubitschek Andrew A. , Jacobs Russell E.
Published: March 2013

Purpose: Targeted nanotherapies are being developed to improve tumor drug delivery and enhance therapeutic response. Techniques that can predict response will facilitate clinical translation and may help define optimal treatment strategies. We evaluated the efficacy of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging to monitor early response to CRLX101 (a cyclodextrin-based polymer particle containing the DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor camptothecin) nanotherapy (formerly IT-101), and explored its potential as a therapeutic response predictor using a mechanistic model of tumor cell proliferation.

Experimental Design: Diffusion MRI was serially conducted following CRLX101 administration in a mouse lymphoma model. Apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) extracted from the data were used as treatment response biomarkers. Animals treated with irinotecan (CPT-11) and saline were imaged for comparison. ADC data were also input into a mathematical model of tumor growth. Histological analysis using cleaved-caspase 3, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated dUTP nick end labeling, Ki-67, and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) were conducted on tumor samples for correlation with imaging results.

Results: CRLX101-treated tumors at day 2, 4, and 7 posttreatment exhibited changes in mean ADC = 16 ± 9%, 24 ± 10%, 49 ± 17%, and size (TV) = −5 ± 3%, −30 ± 4%, and −45 ± 13%, respectively. Both parameters were statistically greater than controls [p(ADC) ≤ 0.02, and p(TV) ≤ 0.01 at day 4 and 7], and noticeably greater than CPT-11–treated tumors (ADC = 5 ± 5%, 14 ± 7%, and 18 ± 6%; TV = −15 ± 5%, −22 ± 13%, and −26 ± 8%). Model-derived parameters for cell proliferation obtained using ADC data distinguished CRLX101-treated tumors from controls (P = 0.02).

Conclusions: Temporal changes in ADC specified early CRLX101 treatment response and could be used to model image-derived cell proliferation rates following treatment. Comparisons of targeted and nontargeted treatments highlight the utility of noninvasive imaging and modeling to evaluate, monitor, and predict responses to targeted nanotherapeutics. Clin Cancer Res; 19(9); 2518–27. ©2013 AACR.
Tissue Redox Activity as a Hallmark of Carcinogenesis: From Early to Terminal Stages of Cancer
Authors: Bakalova Rumiana , Zhelev Zhivko , Aoki Ichio , Saga Tsuneo
Published: March 2013

Purpose: The study aimed to clarify the dynamics of tissue redox activity (TRA) in cancer progression and assess the importance of this parameter for therapeutic strategies.

Experimental Design: The experiments were carried out on brain tissues of neuroblastoma-bearing, glioma-bearing, and healthy mice. TRA was visualized in vivo by nitroxide-enhanced MRI on anesthetized animals or in vitro by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy on isolated tissue specimens. Two biochemical parameters were analyzed in parallel: tissue total antioxidant capacity (TTAC) and plasma levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP).

Results: In the early stage of cancer, the brain tissues were characterized by a shorter-lived MRI signal than that from healthy brains (indicating a higher reducing activity for the nitroxide radical), which was accompanied by an enhancement of TTAC and MMP9 plasma levels. In the terminal stage of cancer, tissues in both hemispheres were characterized by a longer-lived MRI signal than in healthy brains (indicating a high-oxidative activity) that was accompanied by a decrease in TTAC and an increase in the MMP2/MMP9 plasma levels. Cancer progression also affected the redox potential of tissues distant from the primary tumor locus (liver and lung). Their oxidative status increased in both stages of cancer.

Conclusions: The study shows that tissue redox balance is very sensitive to the progression of cancer and can be used as a diagnostic marker of carcinogenesis. The study also suggests that the noncancerous tissues of a cancer-bearing organism are susceptible to oxidative damage and should be considered a therapeutic target. Clin Cancer Res; 19(9); 2503–17. ©2013 AACR.
Unilateral Pallidal Deep Brain Stimulation in a Patient with Dystonia Secondary to Episodic Ataxia Type 2
Authors: Harries Anwen M. , Sandhu Mandeep , Spacey Sian D. , Aly Mohamed M. , Honey Christopher R.
Published: March 2013

Background/Aims: This paper describes the use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the globus pallidus internus (GPi) in the treatment of secondary dystonia caused by expisodic ataxia type 2 (EA2). Methods: We present the case of a patient with EA2, an autosomal dominant condition, who developed late-onset cervical and right upper limb segmental dystonia. The patient underwent left GPi DBS. Results: Within 4 months of commencing stimulation of the left GPi, the patient had resolution of his neck pain and was able to keep the head straighter for longer time intervals. There was also improvement in right arm segmental dystonia. There was an improvement in the Toronto Western Spasmodic Torticollis Rating Scale (TWSTRS 21.5) of 55% at 4 months and of 51% at 22 months. Conclusion: The treatment of secondary dystonia is difficult and the results with GPi DBS are less favourable compared with primary dystonia. This case illustrates the successful treatment of secondary dystonia caused by EA2.
Growth in Small-for-Gestational-Age Preterm-Born Children from 0 to 4 Years: The Role of both Prematurity and SGA Status
Authors: Bocca-Tjeertes Inger F.A. , Reijneveld Sijmen A. , Kerstjens Jorien M. , de Winter Andrea F. , Bos Arend F.
Published: March 2013

Background: Fullterm small-for-gestational-age children (SGAs) are known for their ability to catch up on growth. Nevertheless, increased risk of growth restriction remains. Evidence on preterm SGA children's growth is lacking. Objective: To determine absolute gains in height and weight, relative growth, and growth restriction in preterm SGAs from 0 to 4 years and how prematurity and SGA status affect these measures. Design/Methods: Community-based cohort study, n = 1,648 preterm-born (gestational age <36 weeks, 57 SGA) and 605 term-born (12 SGA). We defined SGA as a birth weight less than -2 SD (P 2.3) compared to counterparts matched for gestational age. Height, weight, and head circumference were obtained from medical records and translated to z-scores. We defined growth restriction as height or weight less than -2 SD compared to fullterm appropriate-for-gestational-age children (AGAs). Results: Absolute height and weight gains were similar, but the relative growth of preterms and fullterms differed. Preterm AGAs and fullterm SGAs, although not reaching it, caught up towards the fullterm AGA median (z-scores at 4 years: -0.3 to -1.0). By contrast, preterm SGA children's z-scores were still -1.4 to -1.7. Head circumference growth was less affected by prematurity and SGA birth (z-scores at 1 year: 0.1 to -0.7). Catch-up growth mainly took place during infancy. 30-39% of all preterm SGAs showed growth restriction at 4 years. Conclusions: Growth in preterm SGAs is affected considerably by the joint effects of preterm birth and SGA status, resulting in a high proportion of growth restriction.
Local Ischaemia Does Not Influence Anastomotic Healing: An Experimental Study
Authors: Daams F. , Monkhorst K. , van den Broek J. , Slieker J.C. , Jeekel J. , Lange J.F.
Published: March 2013

The role of local ischaemia in the pathogenesis of colorectal anastomotic leakage (AL) is not known. This study investigates the role of local ischaemia caused by sutures in an experimental colonic anastomosis model. 36 mice were assigned to three types of anastomosis, all using running sutures; in the first group 5 stitches were used, in the second group 12 stitches were used, and in the third group at least 30 stitches were used. After 7 days the mice were re-operated, signs of AL were scored, and coronal sections of the anastomosis were histologically analyzed. The distribution of weight was not significantly different between the three groups. Mortality was 44% and not significantly different between the groups (group 1: 5/12, group 2: 4/12, and group 3: 7/12, p = 0.72). Faecal and purulent AL were observed in 6 animals in group 1, 2 in group 2, and 3 in group 3 (group 1: 50%, group 2: 17%, and group 3: 25%, p = 0.19). The distance between the two colonic edges (group 1: 0.51 μm, group 2: 1.34 μm, and group 3: 0.53 μm, p = 0.18), the diameter of the lumen at the site of the anastomosis (group 1: 2.92 μm, group 2: 4.06 μm, and group 3: 3.2 μm, p = 0.9), and the largest diameter of the lumen proximally to the anastomosis (group 1: 2.05 μm, group 2: 3.1 μm, and group 3: 2.6 μm, p = 0.25) were not different between the groups. Histological parameters of wound healing were not significantly different for the three groups. In this study no macroscopic and microscopic differences were observed between colon anastomosis with 5 stitches versus 12 and >30 stitches. This might indicate that local ischaemia does not negatively influence colonic wound healing.
Efficacy and Safety of Desvenlafaxine Treatment for Hot Flashes Associated with Menopause: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Sun Zheng , Hao Yanqing , Zhang Min
Published: March 2013

Vasomotor symptoms, such as daytime hot flashes and nighttime awakenings due to hot flashes, are commonly associated with menopausal women. The aim of this study was to assess desvenlafaxine in moderate to severe hot flashes in postmenopausal women. Electronic databases were searched for relevant randomized controlled trials that compared desvenlafaxine to placebo for postmenopausal women affected with hot flashes. The main outcomes were mean differences (MD) or standardized mean differences (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for change of the hot flashes. Six randomized controlled trials were identified in the meta-analysis. Pooled change of moderate and severe hot flashes frequency reduced SMD of -0.49 (95% CI -0.91 to -0.07) in desvenlafaxine 100 mg and -0.36 (95% CI -0.54 to -0.19) in desvenlafaxine 150 mg at week 12. Desvenlafaxine 100 mg reduced moderate and severe hot flashes frequency SMD of -0.74 (95% CI -1.05 to -0.44) within 26 weeks. There is no evidence for an increased risk of cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, or hepatic events associated with desvenlafaxine 100 mg/day. The meta-analysis suggests that treatment with desvenlafaxine 100 mg/day is associated with a significant reduction of moderate to severe hot flashes in postmenopausal women. Desvenlafaxine appears both safe and effective for treating hot flushes for up to 12 months.
Nutritional Genetics: The Case of Alcohol and the MTHFR C677T Polymorphism in Relation to Homocysteine in a Black South African Population
Authors: Nienaber-Rousseau Cornelie , Pisa Pedro T. , Venter Christine S. , Ellis Suria M. , Kruger Annamarie , Moss Sarah J. , Melse-Boonstra Alida , Towers G. Wayne
Published: March 2013

Background/Aims: It is unknown whether the effect of alcohol consumption on homocysteine (Hcy) is modulated by the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T. We explored this hypothesized effect by analyzing cross-sectional data of 1,827 black South Africans. Methods: Total Hcy concentrations were determined by fluorescence polarization immunoassay and the genotype through polymerase chain reaction-based RFLP analysis. Results: Subjects harboring the 677 TT genotype had the highest Hcy. Among subjects harboring the 677 CC genotype, men had higher Hcy (p = 0.04). Age and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) correlated best (r = 0.26 and r = 0.27; p < 0.05), while the percentage carbohydrate-deficient transferrin and the B vitamins correlated weakly (r < 0.1; p < 0.05) with Hcy. Hcy was positively associated with the reported alcohol intake (p ≤ 0.01). There was no interaction between alcohol consumption and the MTHFR 677 CC or CT genotypes (p > 0.05) for Hcy concentrations; however, an interaction was determined for GGT and the MTHFR genotype (p = 0.02). Age, GGT, gender, MTHFR and vitamin B6 explained 16.8% of the variation in Hcy (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The determined interactions might result in differences in the risk conveyed through Hcy with regard to disease development in those with unfavorable GGT concentrations.
Effect of Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester on Intra-Abdominal Adhesion in Rats
Authors: Turgut Abdulkadir , Sak Muhammet Erdal , Turkcu Gul , Ozler Ali , Soydinc Hatice Ender , Evsen Mehmet Siddik , Evliyaoglu Osman , Akdemir Fatih
Published: March 2013

Background: To determine the impact of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on abdominal adhesion formation after laparotomy. Methods: Forty female rats were allocated into four distinct groups on which laparotomy alone; laparotomy with traumatization of the uterine horns; laparotomy, traumatization of the uterine horns and intraperitoneal irrigation with saline, and laparotomy, traumatization of the uterine horns and intraperitoneal irrigation with CAPE were performed. After sacrifying the animals on the 14th postoperative day, histopathological examination and biochemical analysis were conducted to evaluate the formation of abdominal adhesions and antioxidant status. Results: In the CAPE group, total adhesion scores were significantly lower than in the control and saline groups. The CAPE group displayed less inflammation, giant cell formation, fibrosis and fibroblastic activity than the control group. On the other hand, the control group displayed higher total adhesion scores. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the administration of CAPE may have beneficial effects for the prevention of abdominal adhesion formation after laparotomy. Further clinical studies are mandatory to explore the actual therapeutic potential of CAPE.
Optimal Methods for Using Posterior Probabilities in Association Testing
Authors: Liu Keli , Luedtke Alexander , Tintle Nathan
Published: March 2013

Objective: The use of haplotypes to impute the genotypes of unmeasured single nucleotide variants continues to rise in popularity. Simulation results suggest that the use of the dosage as a one-dimensional summary statistic of imputation posterior probabilities may be optimal both in terms of statistical power and computational efficiency; however, little theoretical understanding is available to explain and unify these simulation results. In our analysis, we provide a theoretical foundation for the use of the dosage as a one-dimensional summary statistic of genotype posterior probabilities from any technology. Methods: We analytically evaluate the dosage, mode and the more general set of all one-dimensional summary statistics of two-dimensional (three posterior probabilities that must sum to 1) genotype posterior probability vectors. Results: We prove that the dosage is an optimal one-dimensional summary statistic under a typical linear disease model and is robust to violations of this model. Simulation results confirm our theoretical findings. Conclusions: Our analysis provides a strong theoretical basis for the use of the dosage as a one-dimensional summary statistic of genotype posterior probability vectors in related tests of genetic association across a wide variety of genetic disease models.
Focal Energy Deprivation Underlies Arrhythmia Susceptibility in Mice With Calcium-Sensitized Myofilaments
Authors: Huke Sabine , Venkataraman Raghav , Faggioni Michela , Bennuri Sirish , Hwang Hyun S. , Baudenbacher Franz , Knollmann Björn C.
Published: March 2013

Rationale:

The Ca
2+
sensitivity of the myofilaments is increased in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and other heart diseases and may contribute to a higher risk for sudden cardiac death. Ca
2+
sensitization increases susceptibility to reentrant ventricular tachycardia in animal models, but the underlying mechanism is unknown.

Objective:

To investigate how myofilament Ca
2+
sensitization creates reentrant arrhythmia susceptibility.

Methods and Results:

Using hypertrophic cardiomyopathy mouse models (troponinT-I79N) and a Ca
2+
sensitizing drug (EMD57033), here we identify focal energy deprivation as a direct consequence of myofilament Ca
2+
sensitization. To detect ATP depletion and thus energy deprivation, we measured accumulation of dephosphorylated Connexin 43 (Cx43) isoform P0 and AMP kinase activation by Western blotting and immunostaining. No differences were detected between groups at baseline, but regional accumulation of Connexin 43 isoform P0 occurred within minutes in all Ca
2+
-sensitized hearts, in vivo after isoproterenol challenge and in isolated hearts after rapid pacing. Lucifer yellow dye spread demonstrated reduced gap junctional coupling in areas with Connexin 43 isoform P0 accumulation. Optical mapping revealed that selectively the transverse conduction velocity was slowed and anisotropy increased. Myofilament Ca
2+
desensitization with blebbistatin prevented focal energy deprivation, transverse conduction velocity slowing, and the reentrant ventricular arrhythmias.

Conclusions:

Myofilament Ca
2+
sensitization rapidly leads to focal energy deprivation and reduced intercellular coupling during conditions that raise arrhythmia susceptibility. This is a novel proarrhythmic mechanism that can increase arrhythmia susceptibility in structurally normal hearts within minutes and may, therefore, contribute to sudden cardiac death in diseases with increased myofilament Ca
2+
sensitivity.
Valeriana hsuii (Valerianaceae), a new species from Taiwan
Authors: JUNG MING-JER
Published: March 2013

In this paper Valeriana hsuii (Valerianaceae) from northern Taiwan is newly described and illustrated. Comparison to similar species in Taiwan and neighboring regions is made, and an artificial taxonomic key to species of Valeriana in Taiwan is provided.
Staurastrum pantanale sp. nov. (Zygnematophyceae, Desmidiaceae), a new desmid species from the Brazilian Pantanal
Authors: SANTOS KLEBER RENAN DE SOUZA , MALONE CAMILA FRANCIELI DA SILVA , SANT’ANNA CÉLIA LEITE , BICUDO CARLOS EDUARDO DE MATTOS
Published: March 2013

Staurastrum pantanale is proposed new to science and is characterized by its crenate cell wall and cell dimensions. The species was collected from the metaphyton of a shallow tropical lake (SalitradaCampoDoraLake, 18º 58’ 02” S, 56º 38’ 59” W) with transparent water and pH 5, located in the Nhecolândia Pantanal, Mato Grosso doSul State,Brazil. The new species’ morphology and relationship with morphologically close species are discussed.
Mobilizing female labour market reserves
Authors: Kitterød Ragni Hege , Rønsen Marit , Seierstad Ane
Published: March 2013

With an ageing population and a persistent booming economy, Norway is already facing an unmet demand for labour. Considering the country’s high female part-time work rate, more full-time work among women constitutes a potential labour reserve. This article investigates factors that encourage transitions into full-time work and discourage transitions out of full-time work based on panel data from the period 2003–2009. Shifts between working-time status are linked to human capital, occupational characteristics and household structure, although partner characteristics are less important than assumed. Educational attainment promotes transitions to full-time work and deters shifts to part-time work, while health restrictions have the opposite effects. Working in occupations in the health and service sector restricts transitions to full-time work, as does having a high-earning partner. The partner’s education and working hours have no effect. In spite of well-developed policies for working parents, young children still constrain women’s transitions to full-time work and promote shifts in the reverse direction. Improved access to full-time work and stronger full-time norms in all occupations, more and better educated staff in kindergartens and more involved fathering may promote women’s full-time employment.
Client Perspectives on Occupational Therapy Practice: Are We Truly Client-Centred?
Authors: Rebeiro Karen L.
Published: March 2013

In Canada, the guidelines for the practice of occupational therapy are named and framed as client-centred. Two in-depth interviews were conducted with clients of mental health services about their experiences with a hospital-based occupational therapy service. These occupational therapy clients described their experiences as prescriptive, and as less than client-centred. With the publication of Enabling occupation: A Canadian occupational therapy perspective (Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists [CAOT], 1997) and an increasingly refined focus on being client-centred, these interviews highlight the challenges of a client-centred practice within the current health care environment. These occupational therapy clients raise issues of importance for occupational therapy. The participants stated that the prescription of ‘activity’, a lack of choice, and a focus upon the illness as opposed to the individual, served to diminish any collaborative partnership with the client and eliminate the client from any decision-making process. This distancing from the client, in their opinion, served to greatly diminish any therapeutic value of occupation. The participants recommended a greater focus upon occupational choice, consideration of the individual within the client, providing accepting, supportive environments, and using professional expertise on occupation to guide the client towards participation in meaningful occupation. These recommendations are strikingly similar to the most recent guidelines for the client-centred practice of occupational therapy in Canada. A discussion of the implications of these findings for the client-centred practice of occupational therapy is offered.
Validity and Community Utility of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure
Authors: McColl Mary Ann , Paterson Margo , Davies Diane , Doubt Lorna , Law Mary
Published: March 2013

This study addressed the validity and community utility of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) (Law et al., 1991; 1994; 1998): a measure that now represents a national standard in clinical practice and research in occupational therapy in Canada. The study employed a crosssectional design. Participants for the study were former consumers of occupational therapy services, recruited from the Queen's University catchment area (Kingston, North Bay, Oshawa, Perth, Peterborough). A sample of 61 disabled individuals living in the community were recruited. Each individual was sent a package of self-administered measures including the Satisfaction with Performance Scaled Questionnaire, the Reintegration to Normal Living Index, the Life Satisfaction Questionnaire, and the Perceived Problems List. An interview was also arranged with the project coordinator, which was based on the COPM and the Consumer Utility Questionnaire. Multivariate analyses showed that construct validity was supported; scores on the COPM were significantly related to theoretically related constructs: satisfaction with performance, reintegration to normal living and life satisfaction. In addition, criterion validity was supported. A majority of participants (53%), when asked about problems of daily living, spontaneously reported at least one of the problems raised on the COPM. Community utility was evaluated highly by participants, 75% of whom found the COPM useful in identifying and rating their problems, and 100% of whom reported no problems in understanding the COPM.
Development of a Tool to Measure Clinical Competence in Occupational Therapy: A Pilot Study?
Authors: Salvatori Penny , Baptiste Sue , Ward Maureen
Published: March 2013

Clinical competence is generally defined as a combination of knowledge, skill and professional behaviour. It is typically assessed using written tests, direct observation, chart audit, client satisfaction surveys and supervisor ratings. This paper describes the development and evaluation of a chart-stimulated recall (CSR) measure that combines the methods of chart audit and clinician interview to assess the clinical competence of practicing occupational therapists. The CSR tool was developed using the Canadian Guidelines for Client-Centred Practice and taps global domains of competence: use of theory, assessment, program planning, intervention, discharge planning, follow-up, program evaluation, clinical reasoning and professional behaviours. This pilot study involved two independent raters/interviewers who assessed twelve occupational therapy clinicians on two occasions using a random sample of client cases/records on each occasion Results indicate that the CSR tool is not only reliable and valid, but also sufficiently generic to be used in a variety of practice settings as a global measure of on-the-job performance.
The Occupation of Gardening in Life-Threatening Illness: A Qualitative Pilot Project
Authors: Unruh Anita M. , Smith Nancy , Scammell Cynthia
Published: March 2013

This qualitative pilot study was completed as an exploratory study of the meaning of gardening using attention restoration theory. Three women with breast cancer who garden for leisure were recruited from a cancer support group. Each participant was interviewed at her home on two occasions. To complement the qualitative data, participants also completed the Perceived Restorativeness Scale (PRS) (Hartig, Korpela, Evans, & Garling, 1996). The interviews revealed six major themes some of which were concerned with the interactions between the gardener and the garden, and others which focused on gardening within the context of having cancer. The qualitative and quantitative outcomes supported the perspective of attention restoration theory. Spirituality was interwoven throughout the comments of two participants but was less important for one participant. The implications of this study for practice and future research are discussed.
Impact of Environmental Sensitivity on Occupational Performance
Authors: Peachey-Hill Carol , Law Mary
Published: March 2013

Environmental sensitivity is a multi-system disorder characterized by adverse reactions to certain foods, chemicals, and environmental agents. In this study, the impact of environmental sensitivity on the person, environment, and occupation, as well as on occupational performance and time use, was determined.

Using qualitative methods, 12 participants with environmental sensitivity were interviewed during a 2-month period. A time-use diary of activities over a 24hour period was obtained and compared with a survey conducted by Statistics Canada. Textual analysis was conducted by examining and coding data for emerging themes. Finally, the data were interpreted using the Person-Environment-Occupation Model (Law et al., 1996).

Findings suggest a multiple-system involvement that leads to changes in type, time, and location of self-care, productive, and leisure occupations. Changes to personal health, environment, and occupations contributed to a decline in occupational performance. Enabling and constraining factors influenced the adaptation to changes in occupational performance. Emerging themes included an initial struggle for legitimacy, societal stigma, isolation, financial strain, and loss of personal expression. Management of environmental sensitivity involved making personal, environmental, and occupational changes. Possible roles for occupational therapists encompass issues of pacing, energy conservation, environmental changes, job modification, and matching occupational interests with personal abilities.
Functional Assessment of Older Adults in an Emergency Department
Authors: Lee Velma , Ross Brenda , Tracy Brigeen
Published: March 2013

The fast paced nature of emergency medicine often precludes assessment of patient functioning which may have significant consequences for geriatric patients including falls, functional decline and/or hospital re-admission. A rehabilitation consultation service to a hospital emergency department was implemented based on recommendations in the literature that functional assessments and a multidisciplinary approach be used with older adults. A systematic method of targeting and assessing elderly at-risk patients included a safety checklist and a comprehensive functional assessment tool. An observational study of 80 patients receiving functional assessments from rehabilitation professionals is described. Patients with high levels of disability or who lived alone prior to the emergency visit were more likely to be admitted to hospital. This study supports using multidisciplinary efforts and comprehensive functional assessments in emergency departments to guide decision-making about discharge outcome and planning for the health care needs of elderly patients.
Strategy Application Test: Discriminate Validity Studies
Authors: Birnboim Smadar
Published: March 2013

Purpose. Having a method of testing strategy application abilities provides important information for occupational performance. The goal of the present study was to investigate the discriminate validity of a strategy application test. This test measures the ability to apply and maintain a working strategy for efficient execution of tasks. The advantages of this test are that it is standardized, short, simple to administer, and applicable to various clinical populations. Method. Five different groups of participants were studied: senior healthy people, children affected by attention***deficit hyperactivity disorder, people with multiple sclerosis or with depression and schizophrenia. All of these individuals had some frontal lobe involvement, thus suggesting possible executive dysfunction. Results. As hypothesized, the results demonstrated strategy application skill impairment in all the clinical groups, as well as a gradual decline in strategy application abilities with advanced aging. Practice Implications. These results exhibit the discriminate validity of the strategy application test and add to the accumulating evidence of executive dysfunction in these populations.
In Limbo: Creating Continuity of Identity in a Discharge Planning Unit
Authors: Purves Barbara , Suto Melinda
Published: March 2013

Background. Patients in hospital discharge planning units are often described as waiting for placement, implying a passivity that is not necessarily part of their experience. The anthropological concept of liminality, which refers to both a state of being and a process during which people are suspended between former and future selves, offers a framework for exploring patients' experiences of a discharge planning unit as a transitional space. Methods. This pilot qualitative study incorporates participant observation and ethnographic interviewing to explore how two patients living in the discharge planning unit of a large urban hospital use weekly bus trips into the community to actively renegotiate their sense of self. Results. An interpretation of the findings using the concepts of emplotment and occupation reveals how patients in a liminal environment work to create meanings through disruptions in their lives. Practice Implications. The renegotiation of identity through occupations highlights the transformative potential of these experiences, suggesting possibilities for occupational therapists to support their clients in that process of change.