bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of hippocampal excitability by citalopram
Authors: Igelström Kajsa M. , Heyward Philip M.
Published: September 2012

Purpose:  Preclinical data have suggested that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may have anticonvulsant properties, and some SSRIs are known to modulate ion channels in vitro. We screened citalopram, fluoxetine, and sertraline for anticonvulsant actions in mouse hippocampal slices, and studied the effects of citalopram on active membrane properties and repetitive action potential firing.

Methods:  To enable testing of antiepileptic effects and target modulation in a single experimental system, we used the simplistic low‐Ca2+ model, which is strongly dependent on the intrinsic excitability of CA1 pyramidal neurons. Field potentials and whole‐cell currents were recorded from brain slices, and SSRIs were bath‐applied.

Key Findings:  We found that citalopram, fluoxetine, and sertraline inhibited epileptiform activity recorded from area CA1. The effect of citalopram was more potent and less variable than that of fluoxetine and sertraline. The anticonvulsant action of citalopram was accompanied by marked slowing of action potential rise and decay, and robust inhibition of repetitive firing. This depression of membrane excitability appeared to be mediated in part by inhibition of a sustained potassium current.

Significance:  These findings confirm that SSRIs can have anticonvulsant effects in the hippocampus, and further suggest that citalopram may exert these effects at least in part by inhibition of voltage‐gated ion currents.
Construction of an Implant‐Retained Auricular Prosthesis with the Aid of Contemporary Digital Technologies: A Clinical Report
Authors: Hatamleh Muhanad M. , Watson Jason
Published: September 2012

Implant‐retained auricular prostheses are a successful treatment modality for children with microtia. They involve only minor surgical intervention of implant placement and result in an esthetically pleasing outcome. Integration of digital technologies (DT) in the prosthetic reconstruction process is a new approach toward enhancing outcomes. In this report we present a case of auricular prosthetic reconstruction following two implant placements in the right mastoid region. The ear prosthesis was constructed with the aid of various DTs. A structured light laser scanner was used to digitize the nondefect patient ear. The digitized 3D ear was then manipulated in specialist software, mirrored to reflect the opposing side, and a Rapid Prototyping (RP) machine (Z‐Corp) was used to manufacture the soft tissue required. This RP‐mirrored ear model allows very accurate reproduction to replicate missing soft tissue. A color Spectrometer was used to accurately reproduce skin tones. The use of these technologies is now routine practice at our unit. They enhance prosthetic outcomes and esthetics, save the prosthetist's time, and are digitally stored and subsequently readily available and reproducible.
Effectuation, Causation, and Bricolage: A Behavioral Comparison of Emerging Theories in Entrepreneurship Research
Authors: Fisher Greg
Published: September 2012

This study provides a critical examination of how different theoretical perspectives in entrepreneurship research translate into individual behavior, and whether such behavior is evident in the creation and development of new ventures. Using an alternative templates research methodology, the behaviors underlying the theories of effectuation, causation, and bricolage are evaluated to see whether such behaviors are observable in case study data describing the early development of six new ventures. The analysis highlights behavioral similarities and differences between the various theoretical perspectives in entrepreneurship research, providing insight into how these perspectives contrast and complement one another, and how they could be integrated in future research.
Antibiotics and Antiseptics to Prevent Infection in Cardiac Rhythm Management Device Implantation Surgery
Authors: DAROUICHE RABIH , MOSIER MICHAEL , VOIGT JEFFREY
Published: September 2012

Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) resulting from cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantation cause significant morbidity and mortality, and are increasing at a disproportionately higher rate than the rate of CIED implantation. The prophylactic administration of antibiotics and antiseptics can reduce this infection rate.

The objective of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to determine whether the prophylactic administration of antibiotics and antiseptics in patients undergoing CIED implantation reduces the incidence of SSI in randomized controlled trials.

We searched the Cochrane Wounds Group Specialized Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (The Cochrane Library 2011, Issue 2), Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, and EBSCO CINAHL. No date or language restrictions were applied.

Methods: Two review authors independently screened papers for inclusion, assessed risk of bias, and extracted data using a data collection form. Data were pooled where appropriate.

Results: Fifteen studies (3,970 participants) were included in this review. For patients undergoing a CIED implant, perioperative systemic antibiotics (PSA) plus antiseptics delivered 1 hour before the procedure significantly reduced the incidence of SSI compared with no antibiotics (risk ratio [RR] 0.13; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.05–0.36; P value < 0.00001). Furthermore, PSA plus antiseptics significantly reduced the incidence of postoperative infection compared to antibiotics delivered postoperatively (RR 0.14; 95% CI 0.03–0.60; P value 0.008).

Conclusion: The evidence strongly suggests that antibiotic prophylaxis within 1 hour before CIED implantation is effective at reducing SSI. (PACE 2012; 35:1348–1360)
Cryoablation for Presumed Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia in Pediatric Patients
Authors: VILLASENOR MARIO , SCHAFFER MICHAEL S. , COLLINS KATHRYN K.
Published: September 2012

Background: Little data exist on the outcomes of cryoablation for the treatment of presumptive atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) in a pediatric population.

Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of patients undergoing cryoablation from January 2006 to October 2010 for presumed AVNRT at the Children's Hospital Colorado. Inclusion criteria were age ≤ 18, normal heart structure, no prior ablation procedures, documented narrow complex tachycardia, and no inducible tachycardia or other tachycardia mechanisms during electrophysiology study.

Results: Thirteen patients underwent cryoablation for presumed AVNRT. Cryoablation catheter tip size varied from 4 to 8 mm with a median of eight cryoablation lesions. Isoproterenol was utilized preablation in 54% and none postablation. Procedural endpoints, per written report, were loss of sustained slow pathway, change in Wenckebach cycle length, and no specific endpoint. Procedural endpoints, per measured data, were a decrease in patients exhibiting sustained slow pathway conduction. Maximum atrial‐His (AH) interval with atrial overdrive pacing was reduced from 266 ms preablation to 167 ms postablation, p = 0.006. The number of patients with an AH jump was reduced from 6 to 2. After follow‐up of 13.8 ± 14.3 months, 23% (3/13) had documented tachycardia recurrence. No statistical significance was determined when comparing electrophysiology testing parameters pre‐ and postablation among the group with recurrence versus the group without recurrence.

Conclusions: Cryoablation can be considered as a safe alternative to radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of presumed AVNRT among pediatric patients, albeit with a recurrence rate of 23%. (PACE 2012; 35:1319–1325)
The Evaluation of Possible False Positives with Detergents when Performing Amylase Serological Testing on Clothing
Authors: Feia Andrea , Novroski Nicole
Published: September 2012

For almost 40 years, detergent companies have been adding enzymes such as amylases to their products as an effective method of breaking down tough stains created by polysaccharides and proteins. The possibility that α‐amylases present in common household laundry detergents may contribute to the positive detection of α‐amylase on evidentiary samples during forensic presumptive screening procedures is a potential problem that has not yet been investigated. To determine whether α‐amylase detection is possible following routine laundering, five different fabrics were laundered in a variety of detergents, and presumptive testing using RSID™‐Saliva and Phadebas® Amylase Test was conducted. Our results demonstrate that clothing laundered in detergents known to contain enzymes does not retain any detectable levels of α‐amylase following a typical wash cycle. We also show that, unlike laundered clothing, undiluted detergents do contain detectable levels of α‐amylase; however, these findings were only observed using the Phadebas® Amylase Test.
Characterization of the tissue‐level Ca2+ signals in spontaneously contracting human myometrium
Authors: Bru‐Mercier Gilles , Gullam Joanna E. , Thornton Steven , Blanks Andrew M. , Shmygol Anatoly
Published: September 2012

In the labouring uterus, millions of myocytes forming the complex geometrical structure of myometrium contract in synchrony to increase intrauterine pressure, dilate the cervix and eventually expel the foetus through the birth canal. The mechanisms underlying the precise coordination of contractions in human myometrium are not completely understood. In the present study, we have characterized the spatio‐temporal properties of tissue‐level [Ca2+]i transients in thin slices of intact human myometrium. We found that the waveform of [Ca2+]i transients and isotonic contractions recorded from thin slices was similar to the waveform of isometric contractions recorded from the larger strips in traditional organ bath experiments, suggesting that the spatio‐temporal information obtained from thin slices is representative of the whole tissue. By comparing the time course of [Ca2+]i transients in individual cells to that recorded from the bundles of myocytes we found that the majority of myocytes produce rapidly propagating long‐lasting [Ca2+]i transients accompanied by contractions. We also found a small number of cells showing desynchronized [Ca2+]i oscillations that did not trigger contractions. The [Ca2+]i oscillations in these cells were insensitive to nifedipine, but readily inhibited by the T‐type Ca2+ channel inhibitor NNC55‐0396. In conclusion, our data suggest that the spread of [Ca2+]i signals in human myometrium is achieved via propagation of long‐lasting action potentials. The propagation was fast when action potentials propagated along bundles of myocytes and slower when propagating between the bundles of uterine myocytes.
Cellularity and structure of fresh human coronary thrombectomy specimens; presence of cells with markers of progenitor cells
Authors: Jovin Ion S. , Lei Li , Huang Yan , Hao Zhengrong , Curtis Jeptha P. , Brennan Joseph J. , Remetz Michael S. , Setaro John F. , Pfau Steven E. , Howes Christopher J. , Clancy Jude F. , Cabin Henry S. , Cleman Michael W. , Giordano Frank J.
Published: September 2012

Acute coronary syndromes and acute myocardial infarctions are often related to plaque rupture and the formation of thrombi at the site of the rupture. We examined fresh coronary thrombectomy specimens from patients with acute coronary syndromes and assessed their structure and cellularity. The thrombectomy specimens consisted of platelets, erythrocytes and inflammatory cells. Several specimens contained multiple cholesterol crystals. Culture of thrombectomy specimens yielded cells growing in various patterns depending on the culture medium used. Culture in serum‐free stem cell enrichment medium yielded cells with features of endothelial progenitor cells which survived in culture for a year. Immunohistochemical analysis of the thrombi revealed cells positive for CD34, cells positive for CD15 and cells positive for desmin in situ, whereas cultured cell from thrombi was desmin positive but pancytokeratin negative. Cells cultured in endothelial cell medium were von Willebrand factor positive. The content of coronary thrombectomy specimens is heterogeneous and consists of blood cells but also possibly cells from the vascular wall and cholesterol crystals. The culture of cells contained in the specimens yielded multiplying cells, some of which demonstrated features of haematopoietic progenitor cells and which differentiated into various cell‐types.
Shifting effects in randomised controlled trials of complex interventions: a new kind of performance bias?
Authors: Gold C. , Erkkilä J. , Crawford M. J.
Published: September 2012

Gold C, Erkkilä J, Crawford MJ. Shifting effects in randomised controlled trials of complex interventions: a new kind of performance bias?

Objective:  Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) aim to provide unbiased estimates of treatment effects. However, the process of implementing trial procedures may have an impact on the performance of complex interventions that rely strongly on the intuition and confidence of therapists. We aimed to examine whether shifting effects over the recruitment period can be observed that might indicate such impact.

Method:  Three RCTs investigating music therapy vs. standard care were included. The intervention was performed by experienced therapists and based on established methods. We examined outcomes of participants graphically, analysed cumulative effects and tested for differences between first vs. later participants. We tested for potential confounding population shifts through multiple regression models.

Results:  Cumulative differences suggested trends over the recruitment period. Effect sizes tended to be less favourable among the first participants than later participants. In one study, effects even changed direction. Age, gender and baseline severity did not account for these shifting effects.

Conclusion:  Some trials of complex interventions have shifting effects over the recruitment period that cannot be explained by therapist experience or shifting demographics. Replication and further research should aim to find out which interventions and trial designs are most vulnerable to this new kind of performance bias.
Risk indicators for dental erosive wear among 18‐yr‐old subjects in Oslo, Norway
Authors: Mulic Aida , Skudutyte‐Rysstad Rasa , Tveit Anne B. , Skaare Anne B.
Published: September 2012

The aim was to investigate risk indicators associated with dental erosive wear among 18‐yr‐old subjects in Oslo, Norway. Of 3,206 adolescents invited to participate in a screening examination for erosive wear, 1,456 were examined (giving a response rate of 45%). As part of the examination all participants completed a self‐administered questionnaire. Associations between the presence of erosive lesions and the possible risk indicators were assessed by logistic regression analyses, taking into account the hierarchical relationships between the independent variables. Of all 18‐yr‐old subjects examined, 38% had at least one tooth with erosive lesions. Multivariate analyses showed significant associations between the presence of erosive wear and being male, brushing teeth once per day or less, episodes of vomiting, daily/weekly episodes of gastro‐oesophageal reflux, consumption of fruit juice and sugary soft drinks several times per day, as well as consumption of sugary soft drinks daily to once per week. In conclusion, in addition to gender, dietary habits such as frequent consumption of fruit juice and sugary soft drinks, and the occurrence of reflux and vomiting, appear to be risk indicators for erosive wear. When counselling adolescents at risk, the gender‐specific risk indicators should be taken into account.
Spatio‐temporal dynamics of the invasive plant species Elytrigia atherica on natural salt marshes
Authors: Veeneklaas Roos M. , Dijkema Kees S. , Hecker Norbert , Bakker Jan P.
Published: September 2012

Question

In the past decades, the tall native invasive grass, Elytrigia atherica, has been increasing in frequency and dominance on salt marshes along the Wadden Sea coast. Is this rapid expansion an outcome of natural succession or is it driven by anthropogenic eutrophication resulting from atmospheric deposition?

Location

Salt marshes on four back‐barrier islands, Wadden Sea on the coast of the Netherlands and Germany.

Methods

We used a combination of time series of vegetation maps and chronosequence data of four naturally developed salt marshes to address our questions. These salt marshes have not been grazed by livestock or subject to other management regimes. By comparing development within and between four different salt marshes, we were able to study the spatial and temporal dynamics of the community dominated by E. atherica on natural salt marshes.

Results

The expansion rate of the E. atherica community was highest on young salt marshes (up to 30 yr old) with vertical accretion rates of 0.35 cm·yr−1. The rate of expansion decreased on older marshes and the direction reversed, becoming negative, on the oldest marshes (around 90 yr old), which have no vertical accretion and are under waterlogged conditions.

Conclusions

The expansion of E. atherica on natural, back‐barrier islands along the Wadden Sea coast is more influenced by the age of the salt marsh and patterns in vertical accretion of soil than by uniformly spread atmospheric deposition.
Application of a Kohonen's self‐organizing map for evaluation of long‐term changes in forest vegetation
Authors: Adamczyk Jolanta J. , Kurzac Maria , Park Young‐Seuk , Kruk Andrzej
Published: September 2012

Question

Can a Kohonen's self‐organizing map, which is robust to non‐linear relationships between variables and their non‐normal distributions, be effective in patterning the data on plant communities investigated with the classical Braun‐Blanquet phytosociological method based on the ordinal scale? Does the application of the self‐organizing map make it possible to obtain new information from the analysed plant communities when compared to the Braun–Blanquet method alone?

Location

The Babsk nature reserve, Central Poland.

Methods

The analysed data were derived from two separate series of phytosociological studies on plant communities dating from periods 31 yr apart (1960 and 1991). The data consisted of 24 quantitative sampling lists of plant species (=phytosociological releves). The releves were analysed by the application of a Kohonen's self‐organizing map and the indicator value (IndVal).

Results

The transformations from Querco roboris–Pinetum to Tilio cordatae–Carpinetum betuli in the vegetation in the Babsk nature reserve over 31 yr were determined precisely. Valuable new data were also obtained on: (1) significant associations of individual plant species with the previous and recent phytocoenoses, i.e. diagnostic groups of plant species for each phytocoenosis; (2) abiotic conditions (determined retrospectively in the two study periods on the basis of ecological indicators for vascular plants); and (3) the concordance of phytocoenoses with the biotope.

Conclusions

The Kohonen's self‐organizing map method and the IndVal made it possible to efficiently identify abiotic and biotic patterns for plant communities on the basis of the data expressed in the conventional Braun‐Blanquet scale.
Limited effects of dominant species population source on community composition during community assembly
Authors: Gibson David J. , Baer Sara G. , Klopf Ryan P. , Reed Lewis K. , Wodika Ben R. , Willand Jason E.
Published: September 2012

Question

To what extent do dominant species population sources and subordinate species pools affect diversity and composition of an assembling grassland community?

Location

Illinois,USA.

Methods

Percentage cover of all species were recorded annually in 36 1‐m2quadrats assigned to a factorial combination of dominant species population source (functionally distinct cultivar or non‐cultivar seed source) and designed species pool (three levels varying in species identity, but with equal functional group representation and richness) during the first 4 yr of community assembly in an experimental grassland restoration.

Results

Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that individual species abundance, life form and community composition differed significantly among designed species pools, but were not strongly affected by population source of the dominant species (cultivar or non‐cultivar). There were fewerC4species in cultivar plots but only in one of three designed species pools during one of 4 yr of community assembly. The number of legume and forb species was higher in cultivar plots, but also only in one of the 4 yr of study. Other changes in species richness and abundance were solely related to successional change.

Conclusions

Non‐dominant species introduced to restore plant communities strongly affects plant community composition, and composition can show fidelity to designed species pools. Only marginal or temporary effects of dominant species seed source were observed in the assembling plant community. Thus, we found no strong evidence that the source of dominant species, in this case cultivars compared to local ecotypes, has consequences for community assembly in the early stages of restoration (1–4 yr). The absence of a strong dominant species source effect may be exacerbated by the assembly of diverse plant communities, resulting in a stronger effect of subordinate species seed mixture in restoration.
Spouse Control and Type 2 Diabetes Management: Moderating Effects of Dyadic Expectations for Spouse Involvement
Authors: Seidel Amber J. , Franks Melissa M. , Stephens Mary Ann Parris , Rook Karen S.
Published: September 2012

For married patients, chronic illness management often includes involvement of their spouses. We examined expectations regarding spouse involvement in the health of a partner with type 2 diabetes (N = 139 couples) from the perspectives of the patient and spouse. Partners' dyadic expectations and spouses' gender were posited to moderate spouses' diet‐related control and patients' diet adherence. Among male patients, when both partners shared an expectation for spouse involvement greater diet‐related spouse control was associated with better diet adherence of patients. In contrast, when expectations for spouse involvement were not shared, greater spouse control by wives was associated with poorer diet adherence. Dyadic expectations for spouse involvement did not moderate the association between spouse control and diet adherence among female patients. Findings suggest that shared expectations for spouse involvement can facilitate spouses' attempts to improve patients' dietary adherence, especially among male patients and their wives.
His and Her Job: What Matters Most for Fertility Plans and Actual Childbearing?
Authors: Kaufman Gayle , Bernhardt Eva
Published: September 2012

This study examines workplace culture and fertility plans and transitions in Sweden. This study goes beyond previous research in examining the effect of particular job characteristics as well as the influence of a partner's job characteristics on women's and men's birth plans and transitions. We use data from the 1999 and 2003 Swedish Young Adult Panel Study. Results indicate that men are more likely to intend to have a child if their partner's job makes it easy to take parental leave or work part‐time. Women are more likely to intend to have a child if their partner's job pays well. In addition, men whose job pays well are more likely to have a child. This research suggests that family‐friendly policies may enhance fertility indirectly through men's fertility decision making.
Full‐Time, Part‐Time Full‐Time, and Part‐Time Fathers: Father Identities Following Divorce
Authors: Troilo Jessica , Coleman Marilyn
Published: September 2012

This grounded theory study examined how 20 newly divorced, nonresidential fathers manage their fatherhood identities. The theory created from this study proposes that fathers' perceptions of (a) father‐child relationships, (b) how their children's fiscal needs are met, and (c) barriers to their physical interactions with their children influence their fatherhood identities. In spite of all fathers identifying themselves as involved, three types of fathers emerged: full‐time fathers, part‐time full‐time fathers, and part‐time fathers. The findings suggest that men's conceptualizations of father involvement are influenced by their postdivorce experiences with nonresidential fatherhood.
A Test of Cognitive Dissonance Theory to Explain Parents' Reactions to Youths' Alcohol Intoxication
Authors: Glatz Terese , Stattin Håkan , Kerr Margaret
Published: September 2012

Studies have shown that parents reduce control and support in response to youths' drinking. Why they react this way, however, is still unknown. From cognitive dissonance theory, we derived hypotheses about parents' reactions. We used a longitudinal, school‐based sample of 494 youths (13 and 14 years, 56% boys) and their parents. General Linear Model (GLM) analyses were used to test the main hypotheses. In accord with our hypotheses, parents who encountered their youths intoxicated became less opposed to underage drinking over time. In addition, parents who remained strongly opposed to youth drinking experienced more worries than parents who became less opposed. Alternative explanations for the results were tested, but were not supported. The findings suggest that to eliminate the dissonance between their strict attitudes against youth drinking and their knowledge of their own youths' drinking, parents changed their attitudes and became more lenient.
Pathways to Achievement: How Low‐Income Mexican‐Origin Parents Promote Their Adolescents Through School
Authors: Suizzo Marie‐Anne , Jackson Karen Moran , Pahlke Erin , Marroquin Yesenia , Blondeau Lauren , Martinez Anthony
Published: September 2012

Using an ecocultural framework, we investigated relations between parental academic socialization (PAS) and adolescent motivation and achievement. Two‐hundred sixteen Mexican‐origin, low‐income sixth graders reported on their motivational beliefs and behaviors and on their parents' academic socialization. Results indicated that parents engaged in high levels of all dimensions of PAS: providing an environment for learning, communicating messages about hard work, and communicating messages about school success. Adolescents' determination to persist on schoolwork and educational expectations each partially mediated relations between parental messages about school success and grades. Achieve for family, the motivation to achieve due to feelings of family indebtedness and honor, partially mediated relations between parental messages about school success and determination. Finally, a moderated mediation analysis confirmed that the indirect effect of parental messages about school success on grades through determination differs as a function of maternal warmth. High maternal warmth was associated with stronger relations between PAS and determination.
Suction assisted pulse lavage: randomised controlled studies comparing its efficacy with conventional dressings in healing of chronic wounds
Authors: Shetty Rahul , Barreto Elvino , Paul Kingsly M
Published: September 2012

Chronic, open, non‐healing wounds pose a continual challenge in medicine as the treatment is variable and there are no documented consistent responses. Although wound aetiologies vary and there are a number of factors that affect chronic wound pathogenesis, wound ischaemia and bacterial colonisation of wounds are the chief concerns among them. Conventionally, pulse lavage has been used primarily as a wound debriding device. To address both the critical factors of wound ischaemia and bacterial burden, a couple of technical points were proposed and applied in this study. The objective of our study was to evaluate pulse lavage therapy's ability to improve the healing rate of chronic wounds compared to that of the traditional saline‐wet‐to‐moist dressings. The study period was from 1 August 2010 to 31 January 2012 and was conducted in our institution. Thirty patients with 31 chronic, non‐healing wounds were enrolled in the study after obtaining proper consent. Subjects were randomised (15 patients each) to the pulse lavage group and the control group. Patients in the test group were subjected to irrigation of their wounds with pulsed lavage at 10 to 15 psi pressure. In the control group, wound was closed by applying moist betadine saline gauze dressings after cleaning with saline. Wounds treated with pulse lavage system significantly reduced in size, had better control of bacterial contamination and had overall faster healing rates. Efficacy of pulse lavage can be increased by correct method of administration of the irrigant.
An evaluation of five different dressing materials on split‐thickness skin graft donor site and full‐thickness cutaneous wounds: an experimental study
Authors: Uraloğlu Muhammet , Livaoğlu Murat , Agdoğan Özgür , Mungan Sevdegül , Alhan Etem , Karaçal Naci
Published: September 2012

The objective of this study was to investigate the healing effect of five different products on split‐thickness skin graft (STSG) donor sites and full‐thickness cutaneous wounds (FTCWs) using an occlusive dressing model. Six groups were included: 1 control and 5 experimental groups, with a total of 24 rats, using an occlusive dressing model. STSG donor sites and FTCWs were established in two separate areas, to the right and left on the animals' backs. Wound sites were dressed with one of the following materials: fine mesh gauze, microporous polysaccharide hemosphere (MPH), clinoptilolite, alginate, hydrogel or biosynthetic wound dressing (Biobran®). These materials were compared in terms of healing rate, healing quality and histopathological findings. Occlusive dressings were applied to each wound on days 0, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 14. Area measurements were taken using images of each dressing. The alginate and clinoptilolite groups gave the best healing rate results for both STSG donor sites (P = 0·003) and FTCWs (P = 0·003). MPH came third in each group. The alginate group produced better results in terms of healing quality criteria, followed by hydrogel, MPH, clinoptilolite and Biobran®, in that order. Statistically significant results were obtained in all groups compared to the control group (P < 0·0007). Rapid and good healing quality for both the STSG donor sites and FTCWs were obtained with alginate. Healing with clinoptilolite and MPH was rapid, but poor quality, while slower but good healing quality was obtained with hydrogel. Slower and worse quality healing was obtained with Biobran®.
Negative pressure wound therapy for the treatment of sternal wound infections after cardiac surgery
Authors: Fleck Tatjana , Fleck Michael
Published: September 2012

We retrospectively collected and analysed data from patients with sternal wound infections between 1995 and 2001, which were treated with different wound management strategies, and compared them with our patients from 2002 to 2011, who were treated with the sternal negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). From 1995 to 2001, a total of 198 patients (group A) with a mean age of 65 ± 10 years developed sternal wound infection (67% deep) after cardiac surgery. Wound management consisted of surgical debridement and immediate sternal closure or open packing. From 2002 to 2011, a total of 326 patients (group B) (71% deep) were managed with NPWT at the time of surgical debridement. Total mortality was 10% in group A and 3·6% in group B. Recurrence rates were 34 and 8·5%, respectively, for the groups A and B. The meantime of NPWT was 11 days. In group B patients, 75% proceeded to sternal closure. With the introduction of NPWT, the treatment of sternal wound infections could be substantially improved. Particularly, the high recurrence rates could be minimised; furthermore, the goal to salvage the sternal bone is facilitated.
Dipterocarp Biology as a Window to the Understanding of Tropical Forest Structure: Where are we Looking Now?
Authors: Ashton Peter , Kettle Chris J.
Published: September 2012

The dipterocarps are dominant trees across a large part of lowland Southeast Asia. These forests provide a valuable timber resource, are rich in biodiversity, and are among the most important terrestrial carbon sinks in the world. Yet, these forests are fast disappearing, often unsustainably managed and are rapidly being replaced by agricultural crops such as oil palm and other commercial plantations. Here, we provide a brief overview to this family, outline its significance, and introduce the articles of this Special Section which provides a collection of the recent advances in our understanding of the biology of this important family of tropical trees.
An Arabidopsis Class II Formin, AtFH19, Nucleates Actin Assembly, Binds to the Barbed End of Actin Filaments, and Antagonizes the Effect of AtFH1 on Actin DynamicsF
Authors: Zheng Yiyan , Xin Haibo , Lin Jinxing , Liu Chun‐Ming , Huang Shanjin
Published: September 2012

Formin is a major protein responsible for regulating the nucleation of actin filaments, and as such, it permits the cell to control where and when to assemble actin arrays. It is encoded by a multigene family comprising 21 members in Arabidopsis thaliana. The Arabidopsis formins can be separated into two phylogenetically‐distinct classes: there are 11 class I formins and 10 class II formins. Significant questions remain unanswered regarding the molecular mechanism of actin nucleation and elongation stimulated by each formin isovariant, and how the different isovariants coordinate to regulate actin dynamics in cells. Here, we characterize a class II formin, AtFH19, biochemically. We found that AtFH19 retains all general properties of the formin family, including nucleation and barbed end capping activity. It can also generate actin filaments from a pool of actin monomers bound to profilin. However, both the nucleation and barbed end capping activities of AtFH19 are less efficient compared to those of another well‐characterized formin, AtFH1. Interestingly, AtFH19 FH1FH2 competes with AtFH1 FH1FH2 in binding actin filament barbed ends, and inhibits the effect of AtFH1 FH1FH2 on actin. We thus propose a mechanism in which two quantitatively different formins coordinate to regulate actin dynamics by competing for actin filament barbed ends.
A significant role of sarcoplasmic reticulum in cardiac contraction of a basal vertebrate, the river lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis)
Authors: Vornanen M. , Haverinen J.
Published: September 2012

Aim

Cardiac contraction and relaxation are mediated by rapidly changing calcium concentration around the myofibrils. In comparison with endotherms, ectothermic hearts are more strongly dependent on extracellular calcium for contraction suggesting this trait might represent the primitive vertebrate mode of cardiac activation. This study tests the hypothesis that intracellular calcium stores play a minor role in cardiac excitation–contraction coupling of a basal vertebrate, the lamprey (Lampetra fluviatilis).

Methods

Contribution of sarcoplasmic reticulum to cardiac calcium management was examined by measuring the ryanodine sensitivity of contraction, determining the number of cardiac ryanodine receptors and their calcium sensitivity, assessing the size of sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium stores in enzymatically isolated cardiac myocytes and qualitative electron microscopic observations of sarcoplasmic reticulum in cardiac muscle.

Results

An extensive network of nonjunctional sarcoplasmic reticulum around myofibrils and numerous junctional sarcoplasmic reticulum couplings at the periphery of the myocytes was present in atrial and ventricular muscle of the lamprey heart. High numbers of ryanodine receptors were present in atrial (0.16 ± 0.04 nmol mg−1 prot) and ventricular membranes (0.27 ± 0.03) (P < 0.01), and 10 μm ryanodine inhibited large part of contraction force in atrial (37.8 ± 5.7%) and ventricular (49.2 ± 6.5%) muscle.

Conclusion

Sarcoplasmic reticulum is well developed in the lamprey heart and plays a significant role in cardiac calcium management. This suggests that in the common ancestor of vertebrates, cardiac excitation–contraction coupling could have been fairly strongly dependent on sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium stores. Functionally, this trait might be associated with high cardiac output and active predatory lifestyle of the lamprey.
Gas Permeability and Thermal Behavior of Polypropylene Films Used for Packaging Minimally Processed Fresh‐Cut Potatoes: A Case Study
Authors: Siracusa Valentina , Blanco Ignazio , Romani Santina , Tylewicz Urszula , Dalla Rosa Marco
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  This work reports an experimental study on the permeability and thermal behavior of commercial polypropylene (PP) film used for fresh‐cut potatoes packaging. The permeability was tested using oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, mix of these 3 gases, normally used for modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) and Air, to understand if it would be possible to extend the shelf life of this food product designed for the catering field in respect to the packaging behavior. The temperature influence on permeability data, from 5 to 40 °C, was analyzed, before and after 4, 8, 12, 15, and 20 d of food contact, pointing out the dependence between temperature and gas transmission rate (GTR), solubility (S), diffusion coefficient (D), and time lag (tL) parameters. The activation energies (E) of the permeation process were determined with the different gases used in the experiments. The thermal behavior of PP film was studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TG) to well understand its thermal stability. Fourier transformed‐infrared with attenuated total reflectance (FT‐IR/ATR) spectroscopy was also performed in order to study the influence of the food contact on the chemical characteristics of the polymer film. The results obtained were discussed and compared each other. Studied samples showed, for all investigated gases, an increase of gas permeability and S values at higher temperature. Heat resistance classification among the sample as it is and stored in modified atmospheres was made. Finally all performed experiments have showed good polymer stability for the shelf‐life storage potatoes under study.

Practical Application:  Study of packaging material was performed in a range of temperature, which can simulate the service condition to assess the suitability of a commercial polymer film for modified atmosphere packaging of fresh‐cut potatoes minimally processed designed for catering purpose.
Integrated approach to outpatient dental treatment of a patient with cerebral palsy: a case report
Authors: Katz Cintia Regina Tornisiello
Published: September 2012

The large number of oral manifestations associated with motor disorders in patients with cerebral palsy (CP) makes the dentist an indispensable member of the multidisciplinary team caring for this population. This case report presents an 11‐year‐old girl with spastic CP who had severe motor impairment, and a description of her care illustrates the importance of integrated care for patients with CP who are receiving outpatient dental treatment. It was determined that the use of adaptations based on knowledge of CP supported the outpatient dental treatment. The integrated approach used during dental treatment enabled the application of knowledge from the fields of dentistry, physical therapy, and speech therapy to provide for a better quality of life for the patient and, consequently, the caregiver through the improvement in the patient's oral and general health.
Oral health findings in athletes with intellectual disabilities at the NYC Special Olympics
Authors: Fernandez Jill B. , Lim Lily J. , Dougherty Nancy , LaSasso Jennifer , Atar Michael , Daronch Marcia
Published: September 2012

This study collected data to describe the oral health in Special Olympics athletes with intellectual disabilities from New York City, using the standardized Special Olympics, Special Smiles protocol.

A total of 664 self‐selected athletes with intellectual disabilities were screened between 2005 and 2008. A standardized form was used for data collection. Screenings were performed using available light or flashlight, tongue depressor, and disposable mirror. Oral hygiene, reports of oral pain, untreated caries, missing and filled teeth were recorded. The majority of the athletes were 20 years of age or older (52%). Of the examined athletes, 9% reported oral pain, 8% needed urgent care, 28% had untreated caries, 60% had filled teeth, and 32% had signs of gingival disease. Mouthguards were recommended for 26% of athletes.

Our findings offer an initial evaluation of the oral health of Special Olympics athletes with intellectual disabilities in New York City. Results showed high preventive and restorative oral health needs in the Special Olympics population.
Knowledge and practice of behavioral management principles among dentists treating adults with learning disabilities
Authors: Humza Bin Saeed M. , Daly Blánaid , Newton J. T.
Published: September 2012

This study investigated U.K. dentists’ knowledge and practice of behavioral management principles (BMPs) as applied to adults with learning disabilities (AWLD).

A postal questionnaire enquired into the dentists’ experience in managing AWLD, utilization of behavioral management techniques, and knowledge of BMPs. The response rate was 41% (N = 53). Two groups were investigated: specialists (dentists registered on the Special Care Dentistry specialists’ list, n = 37) and nonspecialists (dentists not on the list, n = 16).

Although specialists treated more AWLD than nonspecialists, both groups of dentists reported they felt highly confident in managing AWLD. However, all dentists’ knowledge of the principles of nonpharmacological BMPs was low. Specialists had a tendency to use a greater range of nonpharmacological behavioral management techniques compared to non‐specialists.

These results suggest that dental team members need more training in the theory and practice of BMPs, which might lead to less reliance on costly pharmacological interventions and a clinical experience that is more respectful of the dignity and independence of AWLD.
Dental injuries and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children
Authors: Altun Ceyhan , Guven Gunseli , Akgun Ozlem Marti , Acikel Cengizhan
Published: September 2012

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and traumatic dental injuries in children. A total of 194 children aged 7–15 years participated in this study. Fifty‐seven traumatic injuries to permanent teeth were observed in 33 children. Although a statistically significant difference was not found (p= .848), the rate of incidence was higher in the group with ADHD (17.5%) than in the control group (16.5%). The maxillary right central incisors accounted for nearly half of all injured teeth, while the maxillary central incisors represented the most frequently injured teeth. Enamel fracture was the most common type of dental injury observed. The incidence of enamel fracture was higher in the control group (66.7%) than in the subjects with ADHD (43.3%). There was a significant association between the occurrence of traumatic dental injury and the presence of an overjet greater than 3 mm (p= .020).
Recovering the personal identity of an elderly patient with cleft lip: a case report
Authors: Khalil Wissem , da Silva Henrique Laboissière , Serafim Kátia Tavares , Volpato Luiz Evaristo Ricci , Casela Luiz Fernando Passos , Aranha Andreza Maria Fábio
Published: September 2012

Instances of unoperated cleft lip and/or palate (CLP) in adult or elderly patients are still seen in developing countries. This paper presents the multidisciplinary management and the personal identity revival of a 72‐year‐old patient with unoperated unilateral complete cleft lip. The facial deformity was characterized by a protrusion of the excess of orbicularis oris muscle, irregularities of the upper lip, nose distortion, and septum deviation to the cleft side. The patient was edentulous with the maxillary alveolar ridge collapsed and an associated fistula. The cleft lip was repaired using the Tennison–Randall technique and complete dentures were delivered after the oroantral fistula had been closed. The patient was very pleased with the improvement in speech and eating and she approved of her facial esthetics. The existence of unoperated oral clefts in the elderly population highlights the need to improve policies in treating patients with CLP, mainly in developing countries.
Complementary and alternative medicine usage by patients of a dental school clinic
Authors: Spector Michael L. , Fischer Mark , Dawson Deborah V. , Holmes David C. , Kummet Colleen , Nisly Nicole L. , Baker Karen A. K.
Published: September 2012

This pilot study investigated the prevalence and specific reasons for usage of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among patients of a dental school clinic. Four hundred and two patients completed a 30‐page survey on CAM usage. A higher rate of CAM usage was found in this dental school clinic population than rates previously reported in a general population. More than three‐quarters (76.1%) of the respondents reported using at least one CAM treatment in the past 12 months; 93.3% reported using at least one CAM treatment at some time in their lives. High rates of chiropractic use were found in this population. Tooth pain was the most frequently reported dental condition motivating CAM use. About 10% of dental school clinic patients use topical oral herbal and/or natural products to treat dental conditions, most frequently for preventive/oral health reasons or for tooth pain.
Venereal Shedding of Equid Herpesvirus‐1 (EHV‐1) in Naturally Infected Stallions
Authors: Walter J. , Balzer H.‐J. , Seeh C. , Fey K. , Bleul U. , Osterrieder N.
Published: September 2012

Background

Equid herpesvirus 1 (EHV‐1) is a highly prevalent pathogen in horse populations worldwide. Oronasal infection represents the classic route of disease transmission. Venereal shedding of EHV‐1 is not regarded relevant in terms of virus spreading, which is in contrast to the close relatives of EHV‐1, bovine and suid alphaherpesvirus, for which artificial insemination is a well‐documented and accepted means of virus spread.

Objectives

Documentation of venereal EHV‐1 shedding in 3 naturally infected stallions.

Animals

Three stallions were infected during an acute outbreak by an EHV‐1 strain with the G2254/D752 Pol genotype.

Methods

In this observational study, 12 semen samples from these 3 stallions were tested for EHV‐1 to determine venereal shedding. EHV‐1 was diagnosed by conventional PCR and paired serum neutralization tests in 42 horses. Semen samples were separated into sperm and seminal plasma fractions and tested for EHV‐1 by conventional and quantitative PCR as well as virus isolation by cell culture.

Results

Acute EHV‐1 infection was diagnosed on the premise. Five semen samples collected from 2 of the 3 stallions tested positive for EHV‐1 by (q)PCR. On days 18 and 20 after onset of fever, the last positive samples were retrieved. All samples were positive in seminal plasma, only three in sperm fraction. Virus isolation attempts were unsuccessful.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The data presented here document shedding of EHV‐1 in semen of naturally infected stallions for close to 3 weeks, which seems not to be directly associated with spermatozoa.