bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term prognosis of childhood acute promyelocytic leukaemia with arsenic trioxide administration in induction and consolidation chemotherapy phases: a single‐centre experience
Authors: Cheng Yifei , Zhang Leping , Wu Jun , Lu Aidong , Wang Bin , Liu Guilan
Published: August 2013

Objectives

The efficacy of all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (As2O3) as induction therapy for adult acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) has been documented in several clinical trials. However, the role of ATRA/As2O3 combination in induction and consolidation therapy in children remains unclear. Here, we report the efficacy of combined treatment with As2O3 and ATRA as induction and consolidation chemotherapy to treat newly diagnosed childhood APL.

Methods

From 1998 to 2011, 43 children with newly diagnosed APL received induction and consolidation chemotherapy with ATRA and As2O3 (Protocol B). Rates of complete remission (CR), event‐free survival (EFS), disease‐free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) and drug toxicity were compared between children treated with Protocol B and 25 others treated previously with ATRA alone as induction chemotherapy (Protocol A).

Results

Of 43 patients treated with Protocol B, 41 (95.4%) achieved CR (two died of intracranial haemorrhage on day 10 and 14). In contrast, only 20 (80%) of 25 patients treated with Protocol A achieved CR. Thus, the CR rate was significantly lower in patients receiving induction chemotherapy with Protocol A than in those treated with Protocol B (P = 0.045, χ2 = 6.508). Of the 41 patients who achieved CR on induction therapy with Protocol B, 40 also received consolidation therapy. Molecular relapse, but no overt morphological relapse, occurred in one patient at 25 months after diagnosis; this patient regained CR status with As2O3 treatment.

With a median follow‐up period of 75 months, estimated EFS, DFS and OS rates were 92.5 ± 4.2%, 97.1 ± 2.9% and 95.3 ± 3.2%, respectively, for Protocol B. In contrast, with a median follow‐up of 127 months, the EFS, DFS and OS rates at 75 months were 70.4 ± 9.4%, 76.4 ± 9.2% and 70.4 ± 9.4%, respectively, for Protocol A. Thus, patients treated with Protocol A showed significantly lower EFS (P = 0.021) and OS (P = 0.007) rates than those treated with Protocol B.

Conclusions

Application of As2O3 and ATRA as induction and consolidation chemotherapy resulted in excellent outcomes and improved long‐term prognosis in children with newly diagnosed APL.
Anodal transcranial direct current stimulation over the supramarginal gyrus facilitates pitch memory
Authors: Schaal Nora K. , Williamson Victoria J. , Banissy Michael J.
Published: August 2013

Functional neuroimaging studies have shown activation of the supramarginal gyrus during pitch memory tasks. A previous transcranial direct current stimulation study using cathodal stimulation over the left supramarginal gyrus reported a detrimental effect on short‐term pitch memory performance, indicating an important role of the supramarginal gyrus in pitch memory. The current study aimed to determine whether pitch memory could be improved following anodal stimulation of the left supramarginal gyrus. The performances of non‐musicians on two pitch memory tasks (pitch recognition and recall) and a visual memory control task following anodal or sham transcranial direct current stimulation were compared. The results show that, post‐stimulation, the anodal group but not the control group performed significantly better on both pitch memory tasks; performance did not differ on the face memory task. These findings provide strong support for the causal involvement of the left supramarginal gyrus in the pitch memory process, and highlight the potential efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation as a tool to improve pitch memory.
Addressing a critique of the TEASI framework for invasive species risk assessment
Authors: Leung Brian , Roura‐Pascual Nuria , Bacher Sven , Heikkilä Jaakko , Brotons Lluis , Burgman Mark A , Dehnen‐Schmutz Katharina , Essl Franz , Hulme Philip E , Richardson David M , Sol Daniel , Vilà Montserrat
Published: August 2013

We address criticism that the Transport, Establishment, Abundance, Spread, Impact (TEASI) framework does not facilitate objective mapping of risk assessment methods nor defines best practice. We explain why TEASI is appropriate for mapping, despite inherent challenges, and how TEASI offers considerations for best practices, rather than suggesting one best practice.
Resource and Skill Transfers in Subcontractor SME Acquisitions: Influence on the Long‐Term Performance of Acquired Firms
Authors: Favre‐Bonté Véronique , Thévenard‐Puthod Catherine
Published: August 2013

This paper investigates the link between resource and skill transfers and the long‐term performance of acquisitions. Rather than taking the more common acquirer's perspective, this research emphasizes the point of view of the acquired firm and focuses on a little‐studied type of business, namely, small and medium‐sized subcontractor firms. Through 14 case studies of subcontractor acquisitions, we show that those acquired firms can improve their long‐term performance in terms of turnover, profitability, number of employees and reduced dependency, if they receive certain types of new resources and skills from acquirers. Particularly, post‐acquisition performance is more closely related to the transfer of managerial and functional skills than to operational resources. Three factors (e.g., geographical, business and cultural proximity) also help facilitate some types of transfers. However, the degree of post‐acquisition integration does not play a key role in those transfers.
Immunostimulatory activity of murine keratinocyte‐derived exosomes
Authors: Kotzerke Kristina , Mempel Martin , Aung Thiha , Wulf Gerald G. , Urlaub Henning , Wenzel Dirk , Schön Michael P. , Braun Andrea
Published: August 2013

It has long been known that keratinocytes influence cutaneous immunity through secretion of soluble factors. Exosomes, small membrane vesicles of endocytotic origin, have been implicated in intercellular communication processes such as the transfer of tumor cell antigens and the activation of recipient dendritic cells (DC). However, little is known about immunomodulatory functions of keratinocyte‐derived exosomes. To address this question, we analysed exosome secretion of the murine keratinocyte cell line MPEK under steady state as well as inflammatory conditions (+/− IFNγ). These exosomes were readily taken up by bone marrow‐derived DC (BMDC) in vitro resulting in a matured phenotype, as evidenced by increased CD40 expression as well as by the production of large amounts of IL‐6, IL‐10 and IL‐12. When the transfer of antigen‐specific information through exosomes was investigated, it was found that keratinocytes took up antigen (ovalbumin) and transferred it to their exosomes. However, these antigen‐harbouring exosomes failed to induce antigen‐specific T cell responses via BMDC. Together, this novel biological function suggests that keratinocytes are able to direct unspecific immune processes but do not elicit specific immune responses.
Deletion of the activating NKG2C receptor and a functional polymorphism in its ligand HLA‐E in psoriasis susceptibility
Authors: Zeng Xue , Chen Haoyan , Gupta Rashmi , Paz‐Altschul Oscar , Bowcock Anne M. , Liao Wilson
Published: August 2013

Psoriasis is an inflammatory, immune‐mediated disease of the skin. Several studies have suggested that natural killer (NK) cells and their receptors may be important for its pathogenesis. Here, we examined whether deletion of the activating natural killer receptor gene NKG2C, which has a frequency of 20% in the European population, was associated with psoriasis susceptibility. The NKG2C deletion and a functional polymorphism in its ligand HLA‐E were genotyped in a Caucasian cohort of 611 psoriasis cases and 493 controls. We found that the NKG2C deletion was significantly increased in cases compared with controls [0.258 vs 0.200, P = 0.0012, OR = 1.43 (1.15–1.79)]. The low‐expressing HLA‐E*01:01 allele was associated with psoriasis (P = 0.0018), although this association was dependent on HLA‐C. Our findings support a potential immunoregulatory role for NK cells in psoriasis and suggest the importance of future studies to investigate the contribution of NK cells and their regulatory receptors to the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
Stemming the Tide: Promising Legislation to Reduce School Referrals to the Courts
Authors: Feierman Jessica , Kleinman Rachel M. , Lapp David , Luse Monique N. , Rieser Len , Schwartz Robert G.
Published: August 2013

This article will examine legislation around the country designed to decrease school referrals to the courts. The legislation highlighted addresses the actions to be taken within school systems, the role of the judiciary, and the engagement of multistakeholder groups in delinquency adjudication and disposition hearings. This article highlights state legislation that holds promise for shifting the landscape: identifying appropriate cases to be handled by the school rather than the court system; improving the school system's capacity to address disruptions; and better clarifying the role of courts, probation, and the schools in addressing student misconduct.

Keypoints

Legislation can stem the tide of the school to prison pipeline.

Legislation can minimize referrals to court, strengthen the role of the court in reducing juvenile justice involvement of youth referred by schools, and make it easier for students to return to school after being in the juvenile justice system.

Successful states employ a multifaceted legislative approach to reducing the school‐to‐prison pipeline.
Enhancing Educators' Capacity to Stop the School‐to‐Prison Pipeline
Authors: Coggshall Jane G. , Osher David , Colombi Greta
Published: August 2013

In this article, we, a group of experts from three federally funded educational technical assistance centers housed at the American Institutes for Research, describe four ways teachers and school leaders can affect children's trajectory into and through the pipeline to prison. We then detail the competencies necessary to promote the kinds of positive interactions with children, youth, and their families that will help block the pipeline. We also describe promising approaches to enhancing those competencies and capacities among educators throughout their career continuum. Examples of successful research‐based initiatives for each approach are included.

Keypoints

Teachers and school administrators can affect children's trajectory into and through the pipeline to prison in at least four ways: (1) through their relationships, (2) through their attitudes and social emotional competence, (3) by contributing to the conditions for learning, and (4) through their responses to student behavior.

Educator competencies to block the pipeline to prison include the ability to establish supportive and productive relationships with students and their families and the ability to model social emotional competence and integrate social emotion learning strategies/activities/programs into the academic curriculum throughout the school year, among others.

Enhancing educator competencies to block the pipeline requires a holistic approach, from improving preparation to ongoing professional learning.
Preventing the School‐Justice Connection for Youth in Foster Care
Authors: Gallegos Anne H. , White Catherine Roller
Published: August 2013

Youth involved in the child welfare system face many barriers to educational success and are at a higher risk of becoming involved in the criminal justice system as youth and as adults. They face disruptive school changes, social stigma and isolation, lack of educational supports, disproportionately high rates of special education services, and exclusionary disciplinary actions. The implementation of promising practices and interventions regarding school discipline, delinquency prevention, educational supports, and collaboration among service agencies can help improve foster care experiences and educational outcomes. These can help prevent the crossover of youth in foster care into the criminal justice system.

Keypoints

Learn about specific experiences linked to educational outcomes for youth in foster care.

Learn about some practices and interventions that can be implemented to help improve school experiences and outcomes for youth in care.

Ideas in this article can contribute to strategies aimed at preventing negative behavioral, social, and academic experiences that make the crossover from foster care to juvenile and criminal justice systems so common.
Postmajority Child Support for Children with Disabilities
Authors: Byrns Katherine
Published: August 2013

Caring for a family member with a severe mental or physical disability involves significant costs, regardless of when that family member became disabled. Recognizing these costs, most states have imposed a duty on noncustodial parents to provide child support even after his or her child reaches the age of majority if that child suffers from a severe disability. In general, however, the governing postmajority child support for children with disabilities only imposes such a duty if the child's condition arose to the level of a diagnosable disability prior to that child reaching the age of majority, irrespective of whether that child remained dependent on his or her custodial parent after reaching the age of majority. This Note advocates that states adopt legislation that entitles disabled children and their custodial parents to seek court‐ordered child support: (1) if that child has insufficient resources to support herself independently because of her disability and (2) that child became disabled prior to reaching the age of majority or remained unemancipated when she became disabled despite having reached the age of majority.

Keypoints

Postmajority child support aids substantially in reducing the financial burden on custodial parents who continue to care for their children who suffer from disabilities after their children have reached the age of majority.

Despite the uniformity in costs of caring for a child who suffers from a disability, the availability of postmajority child support varies widely among states.

A model is proposed to create much‐needed clarity and uniformity within the area of postmajority child support for children who suffer from disabilities.
Estimating Employment‐Related Migration from Overlapping Migration and Commuting Networks
Authors: Han Yicheol , Goetz Stephan J. , Kim Taegon , Lee JeongJae
Published: August 2013

A U.S. county workplace‐to‐workplace or latent migration data set is generated from overlapping migration and commuting networks. The latent migration network is the estimated number of movers between places of work, which is then compared with the actual number of migrants between places of residence. This allows both employment‐related and amenity‐related migration and pull/push factors as causes of migration flows to be identified and contrasted. Certain counties and cities that are not important migration destinations (e.g., with <200,000 net in‐migrants between 1995 and 2000) according to official data are in fact important targets when additional in‐migrants who commute into surrounding counties also are considered. An econometric analysis is then used to examine whether different regressors have different effects on the residence‐ versus employment‐based migration patterns. This is a first assessment of whether or not the proposed approach has merit. Results are consistent with prior expectations regarding the factors that would motivate latent versus actual migration.
Lower Groundwater 14C Age by Atmospheric CO2 Uptake During Sampling and Analysis
Authors: Aggarwal Pradeep K. , Araguas‐Araguas Luis , Choudhry Manzoor , van Duren Michel , Froehlich Klaus
Published: August 2013

Uptake of atmospheric CO2 during sample collection and analysis, and consequent lowering of estimated ages, has rarely been considered in radiocarbon dating of groundwater. Using field and laboratory experiments, we show that atmospheric CO2 can be easily and rapidly absorbed in hyperalkaline solutions used for the extraction of dissolved inorganic carbon, resulting in elevated 14C measurements. Kinetic isotope fractionation during atmospheric CO2 uptake may also result in decrease of δ13C, leading to insufficient corrections for addition of dead carbon by geochemical processes. Consequently, measured 14C values of groundwater should not be used for age estimation without corresponding δ13C values, and historical 14C data in the range of 1 to 10% modern Carbon should be re‐evaluated to ensure that samples with atmospheric contamination are recognized appropriately. We recommend that samples for 14C analysis should be collected and processed in the field and the laboratory without exposure to the atmosphere. These precautions are considered necessary even if 14C measurements are made with an accelerator mass spectrometer.
Cysteine sulfinic acid decarboxylase regulation: A role for farnesoid X receptor and small heterodimer partner in murine hepatic taurine metabolism
Authors: Kerr Thomas A. , Matsumoto Yuri , Matsumoto Hitoshi , Xie Yan , Hirschberger Lawrence L. , Stipanuk Martha H. , Anakk Sayeepriyadarshini , Moore David D. , Watanabe Mitsuhiro , Kennedy Susan , Davidson Nicholas O.
Published: August 2013

Aim

Bile acid synthesis is regulated by nuclear receptors including farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and small heterodimer partner (SHP), and by fibroblast growth factor 15/19 (FGF15/19). We hypothesized that hepatic cysteine sulfinic acid decarboxylase (CSAD) (a key enzyme in taurine synthesis) is regulated by bile acids (BA). The aim of this study was to investigate CSAD regulation by BA dependent regulatory mechanisms.

Methods

Mice were fed a control diet or a diet supplemented with either 0.5% cholate or 2% cholestyramine. To study BA dependent pathways, we utilized GW4064 (FXR agonist), FGF19 or T‐0901317 (liver X receptor [LXR] agonist) and Shp−/− mice. Tissue mRNA was determined by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Amino acids were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results

Mice supplemented with dietary cholate exhibited reduced hepatic CSAD mRNA while those receiving cholestyramine exhibited increased mRNA. Activation of FXR suppressed CSAD mRNA expression whereas CSAD expression was increased in Shp−/− mice. Hepatic hypotaurine concentration (the product of CSAD) was higher in Shp−/− mice with a corresponding increase in serum taurine conjugated BA. FGF19 administration suppressed hepatic cholesterol 7‐α‐hydroxylase (CYP7A1) mRNA but did not change CSAD mRNA expression. LXR activation induced CYP7A1 mRNA yet failed to induce CSAD mRNA expression.

Conclusion

BA regulate CSAD mRNA expression in a feedback fashion via mechanisms involving SHP and FXR but not FGF15/19 or LXR. These findings implicate BA as regulators of CSAD mRNA via mechanisms shared with CYP7A1.
Community engagement with genetics: public perceptions and expectations about genetics research
Authors: Etchegary Holly , Green Jane , Parfrey Patrick , Street Catherine , Pullman Daryl
Published: August 2013

Background

Knowledge of molecular biology and genomics continues to expand rapidly, promising numerous opportunities for improving health. However, a key aspect of the success of genomic medicine is related to public understanding and acceptance.

Design

Using community consultations and an online survey, we explored public attitudes and expectations about genomics research.

Results

Thirty‐three members of the general public in Newfoundland, Canada, took part in the community sessions, while 1024 Atlantic Canadians completed the online survey. Overall, many participants noted they lacked knowledge about genetics and associated research and took the opportunity to ask numerous questions throughout sessions. Participants were largely hopeful about genomics research in its capacity to improve health, not only for current residents, but also for future generations. However, they did not accept such research uncritically, and a variety of complex issues and questions arose during the community consultations and were reflected in survey responses.

Discussion

With the proliferation of biobanks and the rapid pace of discoveries in genomics research, public support will be crucial to realize health improvements. If researchers can engage the public in regular, transparent dialogue, this two‐way communication could allow greater understanding of the research process and the design of efficient and effective genetic health services, informed by the public that will use them.
The effect of a dentifrice containing Magnolia extract on established plaque and gingivitis in man: a six‐month clinical study
Authors: Hellström M‐K , Ramberg P
Published: August 2013

Aim

The aim was to evaluate the clinical effect of a dentifrice containing 0.3% Magnolia extract on dental plaque and gingivitis.

Material and methods

The trial was a 6‐month double‐blind, stratified, randomized and 2‐armed parallel group study. Forty‐six subjects in the test group brushed their teeth with a dentifrice containing 0.3% Magnolia extract and 48 subjects in the control group brushed with a placebo dentifrice. Plaque and gingivitis were assessed at baseline, 3 and 6 months.

Results

There was a significantly larger gingivitis reduction in the Magnolia group than in the control group (0.26 ± 0.11 versus 0.11 ± 0.12) (P < 0.001). There was a greater increase in the total number of healthy gingival units Gingival Index (GI score 0) in the Magnolia group than in the control group (149% versus 31%) and a larger reduction in inflamed gingival units (GI score 2/3) (60% versus 30%). Furthermore, at sites with similar amounts of plaque, less clinical signs of gingival inflammation were observed in the Magnolia group than in the control group.

Conclusion

Six months’ unsupervised use of a dentifrice containing 0.3% Magnolia extract resulted in significantly greater gingivitis reduction than a corresponding control dentifrice.
Support needs and quality of life in oral cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Moore KA , Ford PJ , Farah CS
Published: August 2013

Purpose

This review aims to systematically review the literature describing quality of life (QoL) outcomes and support needs in patients with oral cancer along the cancer trajectory. This is needed to form an evidence base for the design of interventions that enhance outcomes for this group.

Methods

Six electronic databases were searched. The results were screened for eligibility, and articles were included if they described patient‐reported QoL outcomes that were translatable to support needs in patients with oral cancer. Data were extracted and synthesized according to the support needs identified and their relative impact on QoL. Methodological quality was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) Quality Assessment Tool.

Results

Thirty‐one articles met the inclusion criteria. Support needs related to coping with the burden of radiotherapy in both psychosocial and physical aspects, swallowing dysfunction, dry mouth and oral functional deficits. Issues of depression, anxiety and malnutrition were identified as having a significant impact on QoL.

Conclusions

Oral cancer support needs are highly subjective and varied in severity across the cancer continuum. Support needs that may warrant further investigation include management of changes to oral health and functioning, swallowing and nutritional compromise and psychological effects of cancer and treatment.
Tranexamic acid accelerates skin barrier recovery and upregulates occludin in damaged skin
Authors: Yuan Chao , Wang Xue‐Min , Yang Li‐Jie , Wu Pei‐Lan
Published: August 2013

Background

Tranexamic acid (TA) is a traditional plasmin inhibitor, and its role in the renovation of damaged skin has become the topic of a lot of research. The aim of this study is to determine whether TA could repair the skin barrier by means of tight intercellular junctions.

Methods

Two kinds of damaged skin models were set up and subjected to repeated application of sodium lauryl sulfate and irradiation of ultraviolet B. Through bioengineering technology and immunohistochemistry tests, TA‐induced changes in skin were detected.

Results

After 1, 3, 7, and 14 days of application, TA can significantly accelerate barrier recovery and decrease the melanin index values of ultraviolet B irritation skin. The mean optic density of occludin from TA treatment is higher than from self‐repair.

Conclusion

These experiments suggest that TA can accelerate skin barrier recovery and upregulate occludin induced by physicochemical damages of human skin, but it is advisable to perform more research on the upregulation of occludin in molecular mechanism in the future.
Dermoscopic features of cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Taheri Ahmad Reza , Pishgooei Nasibeh , Maleki Masoud , Goyonlo Vahid Mashayekhi , Kiafar Bita , Banihashemi Mahnaz , Khajedaluee Mohammad
Published: August 2013

Background

Previous studies have demonstrated that dermoscopy improves accuracy in diagnosing pigmented and non‐pigmented tumors. Recently, there has been increasing evidence that dermoscopy can also be useful in the diagnosis of some skin infections.

Objective

We sought to describe the dermoscopic features of cutaneous leishmaniasis.

Method

Dermoscopic examination (using the Derm Lite FOTO, 3Gen) of 144 CL lesions in 82 patients was performed. This study was conducted in the Imam Reza and Ghaem hospitals (Mashhad, Iran) from October 2010 to September 2011.

Results

We observed the following dermoscopic features: generalized erythema (81.9%), white starbursts (60.4%), yellow hue (43.8%), yellow teardrop‐like structures (41.7%), central ulcers (59%), hyperkeratosis (33.3%), and milia‐like cysts (4.9%). We also observed vascular structures, including dotted vessels (61.1%), hairpin vessels (37.5%), linear irregular vessels (30.6%), comma‐shaped vessels (29.9%), glomerular vessels (22.9%), arborizing telangiectasia (10.4%), and corkscrew vessels (4.2%).

Limitations

Biopsy and pathologic evaluation were not performed due to ethical considerations.

Conclusion

Important vascular patterns seen in melanocytic and non‐melanocytic tumors were frequently observed in this infection. Dermoscopy may be a promising tool to predict the clinical course in cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis.
Actinic prurigo: a case–control study of risk factors
Authors: Vera Izaguirre Diana Sugey , Zuloaga Salcedo Soraya , González Sánchez Pablo César , Sánchez Lara Karla , Chávez Tapia Norberto , Hojyo Tomoka Maria Teresa , Domínguez Soto Luciano , Cuevas González Juan Carlos , Rodríguez Lobato Erika , Vega Memije Maria Elisa
Published: August 2013

Background

Actinic prurigo (AP) is an idiopathic photodermatosis that usually onsets during childhood and predominates in women. It is characterized by the symmetrical involvement of sun‐exposed areas of the skin, lips, and conjunctiva.

Objectives

This study aimed to analyze the risk factors associated with AP using a case–control design.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with AP during 1990–2006 at Dr. Manuel Gea González General Hospital in Mexico City were included. Respective controls were recruited. Race, demographic, geographic, socioeconomic, environmental, clinical, and nutritional risk factors were assessed.

Results

A total of 132 persons were enrolled. These included 44 cases and two control groups comprising, respectively, dermatology and non‐dermatology outpatients without AP or any autoimmune disease. Distribution by gender, age, place of birth, place of residence, and economic status did not differ significantly among the three groups. A total of 256 variables were analyzed. Only 19 variables were found to be statistically significant (P < 0.05). These were: use of a boiler; use of firewood; car ownership; use of earthenware; mixed material housing; socioeconomic level 1; sun exposure; use of soap; lemon consumption; use of moisturizing hair cream; living with pets in the house; living with farm animals; age; having a family member with AP; having had surgery; having had trauma; having been hospitalized; use of oral medication; and use of herbal medication. Of 40 macro‐ and micronutrients analyzed, 11 were found to have statistically significant effects (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Multiple epidemiologic, geographic, clinical, and immunologic factors are involved in the etiology of AP. This study proposes a clear line for research directed at specific risk factors that refer to an individual's clinical, allergic, health, and socioeconomic status. Further study should also investigate the etiologic role of diet in AP and the molecular mechanisms behind the development of AP to establish whether AP is caused by exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
The use of botulinum toxin‐A in the management of neck and anterior chest wall flushing: pilot study
Authors: Geddoa Emad , Matar Hosam E , Paes Trevor Rudrah Franco
Published: August 2013

Abstract

Idiopathic neck and chest wall flushing could cause disabling effects on patients' quality of life. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of botulinum toxin‐A (BTA) in the management of idiopathic neck and chest wall flushing. This was a pilot prospective clinical study of patients with severe idiopathic neck and anterior chest wall flushing. Two mouse units of BTA were injected intracutaneously with a maximum dose of 100 units per patient per session. The dermatology life quality index is used as the primary outcome measure. Twenty‐two patients were included in the study (18 women, four men) with an average age of 26 years (range 18–48). Twenty patients (90.9%) had immediate improvement with almost complete resolution of their flushing. At four weeks follow‐up, 18 of 22 patients were included in the final analysis, significant improvement in quality of life was achieved, and mean baseline dermatology life quality index score 7.78 (SD 3.25) improved significantly to 4.23 (SD 3.44) with a mean difference of 3.56 (SD 4.6; 95%, confidence interval 1.27, 5.84) with paired samples t‐test 3.29 (d.f. 17) P < 0.004. BTA may provide an effective treatment in the management of idiopathic neck and chest wall flushing.
Ten‐year publication trends in dermatology in mainland China
Authors: Xin Shujun , Mauro Jacqueline A. , Mauro Theodora M. , Elias Peter M. , Man Mao‐Qiang
Published: August 2013

Background

China has been experiencing huge changes in all aspects, including dermatologic research, since its reform in 1978. However, it is not known how the economic and intellectual development has influenced the publication trends in the field of dermatology, which could mirror the scientific development in other medical disciplines. In the present study, we analyzed publication trends from dermatology departments in mainland China from 2002 to 2011.

Methods

All publication data were obtained from www.pubmed.com. Only papers published from dermatology departments in mainland China were used for analysis.

Results

The number of publications increased 10‐fold over this 10‐year period. A total of 1231 articles were published in English in 251 journals between 2002 and 2011. A total of 129 journals published only one paper from dermatology departments in mainland China. Over 60% of articles were original research, and 21.7% were case reports. Among these 251 journals, foremost was the Journal of Clinical Experimental Dermatology, which published 5.9% of all papers from mainland China; 2.7% of papers were published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. The number of publications positively correlated with the changes in gross domestic product per capita during the study period.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the number of publications in the dermatology field has increased markedly in mainland China over the last 10 years. This dramatic increase in publications could be attributed, at least partially, to the significant improvement in economic conditions in mainland China.
Prevention of functional decline in older hospitalized patients: Nurses should play a key role in safe and adequate care
Authors: Hoogerduijn Jita G , Grobbee Diederick E , Schuurmans Marieke J
Published: August 2013

This paper presents a discussion of knowledge and awareness regarding prevention of functional decline in older hospitalized patients.

Functional decline is experienced by 30–60% of the older hospitalized patients, resulting in decreased independence and other adverse health outcomes.

One literature study and four cohort studies (total n = 1628) were conducted to develop and validate an instrument to identify older hospitalized patients at risk for functional decline. An evidence‐based best practice was developed to improve the quality of care for older patients.

This paper shows the relevance and the complexity of this problem and shows that patients at risk can be recognized by four simple questions.

Due to their ability to observe and guide patients and their 24‐h patient supervision, nurses should play a key role in strategies to prevent functional decline. Nurses should assess the geriatric needs in patients at risk and based on these initiate and coordinate multi‐professional interventions. Given the growing number of older people in western society and the growing need for care, action to prevent functional decline cannot be withheld. Knowledge of the ageing process, implementation of an evidence‐based programme and a multidisciplinary approach is a basic ingredient to prevent functional decline.
Impact of psychosocial status and disease knowledge on deferoxamine adherence among thalassaemia major adolescents
Authors: Al‐Kloub Manal Ibrahim , Nayel Salameh Taghreed , Froelicher Erika Sivarajan
Published: August 2013

This cross‐sectional study aimed to explore the relationship between psychosocial status, disease knowledge and adherence to deferoxamine treatment in adolescents with thalassaemia major. A purposive sample of 36 adolescents with transfusion dependence, ages 12−19 years, was recruited. A semi‐structured interview and two structured questionnaires were used. In this sample, 56% were low adherence and 36% were psychologically impaired. Statistically significant factors associated with psychological impairment were: adolescents more than 16 years; low deferoxamine adherence; mean ferritin more than 2500 μg/L; family size more than six; family income equal or less than 350 Jordanian dinar and having sibling with thalassaemia. Additionally, adolescents with high level of knowledge had significantly lower scores on Pediatric Symptom Checklist.
An analysis of the cultural problems encountered during caregiving by the nurses working in two different regions of Turkey
Authors: Parlar Kilic Serap , Buyukkaya Besen Dilek , Tokem Yasemin , Fadiloglu Cicek , Karadag Gulendam
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to identify the cultural problems encountered during caregiving by the nurses working in two university hospitals located in western and eastern Turkey. This descriptive, comparative study was conducted between July 2008 and October 2009 with 338 nurses who volunteered to take part in the study. The study data were collected using an individual description questionnaire consisting of 10 questions and another questionnaire consisting of 14 questions to identify the cultural problems encountered by nurses when giving care. The study showed with respect to training received on transcultural nursing that only 59 nurses had this training, but the percentage was higher in the nurses working at the hospital in the west (54.2%) (P > 0.05). It was found that a large number of nurses in the sample group (n = 286) gave care to at least one individual from another culture, but the percentage was significantly higher in the nurses working in the west (56.7%) than in the nurses working in the east (43.3%) (P < 0.05). When the problems experienced by the nurses during caregiving because of cultural characteristics of patients were explored, it was found that they experienced problems mostly in ‘communication’, and the percentage of those having problems was higher in the nurses working in the west (60.8%) (P > 0.05). The problem experienced in this area was mostly because of the fact that patients ‘did not speak Turkish’ (63.8%). In conclusion, the nurses gave care to patients from different cultures, and most of them had trouble when giving care to patients from different cultures.
Validity and reliability of Turkish version of family satisfaction in the intensive care unit
Authors: Tastan Sevinc , Iyigun Emine , Ayhan Hatice , Kılıckaya Oguz , Yılmaz Ali Abbas , Kurt Ercan
Published: August 2013

To evaluate the quality of care that is provided in intensive care units, needs and satisfaction of the patient relatives must also be considered. The aim of the study is to test the Turkish version of the Family Satisfaction in the Intensive Care Unit (FS‐ICU‐24) Survey, which was developed by Heyland et al. This study was planned and applied as a methodological study. Survey was conducted in the intensive care units of a military education and research hospital and a medical faculty hospital, department of anaesthesia and reanimation in the capital city Ankara of Turkey. Sample of the survey was composed of 120 participants. Cronbach's alpha value for the FS‐ICU‐24 general internal consistency in this study was calculated as 0.95 for total scale. In this study, the Turkish version of the FS‐ICU‐24 was found to be reliable and valid with Turkish population.
Needs for end‐of‐life care by home care nurses among non‐cancer patients in Korea and Japan
Authors: Kim Soon‐Lae , Lee Jong‐Eun , Shimanouchi Setsu
Published: August 2013

The purpose of this study was to undertake a comprehensive assessment of each stage of the end‐of‐life process and the home care nursing needs of non‐cancer patients. The total number of eligible patients was 117 in Korea and 121 in Japan, aged ≥ 40, receiving continuous home care nursing throughout the beginning, stable, and at final death stages and ultimately dying at home. The need for the ‘management of physical symptoms’ increased as patients progressed through the end‐of‐life stages to death. In both countries, the needs for ‘loss and grief care’ and ‘coordination among care team members’ were significantly higher in the stable stage than in the beginning or final death stages. Further research is needed to develop tailored nursing care programmes that meet the specific needs of patients in each stage of the end‐of‐life care at home.
Patient perception of contemporary nurse attire: A pilot study
Authors: Porr Caroline , Dawe Doreen , Lewis Nicole , Meadus Robert J , Snow Nicole , Didham Paula
Published: August 2013

Patients have expressed difficulty accurately distinguishing registered nurses (RNs) from other hospital personnel because standardized uniforms are no longer worn by RNs. According to American studies, such complaints are widespread; moreover, patients’ perceptions of nurse caring and competence and of other traits associated with nurses’ professional image have been negatively affected by casual, non‐conventional attire. As there are no published Canadian studies, we conducted a pilot study to examine patient perception of the nurse uniform. Adult patients viewed photographs of the same RN dressed in eight different uniforms and rated each uniform according to 10 traits associated with nurses’ professional image. The white pantsuit scored higher for professionalism than uniforms with small print, bold print, or solid colour, and most patients preferred that the RN dress in white. Our preliminary findings suggest that RN attire warrants further investigation, and we are planning a large‐scale, fully powered study to inform patient‐driven change to existing uniform policies.
Mentors' perceptions and experiences of supporting student nurses in practice
Authors: McIntosh Annette , Gidman Janice , Smith Debra
Published: August 2013

This paper reports on a funded project that explored the perceptions and experiences of mentors regarding student nurse support in practice. The study employed a mixed‐method approach, using questionnaires and focus groups with mentors from one acute Trust and one community Trust. The findings highlighted the multifaceted nature of student learning in practice, with mentors reporting that clinical skills, adjustment to the placement and integrating into the team were the aspects students needed most support with. Mentors were aware of their roles and responsibilities in supporting students and recognized the importance of their own personal attributes. The participants reported a number of challenges, particularly time, competing demands and paperwork, and suggested that a team approach and support groups could help to overcome these. The support for students provided by peers and health‐care assistants was recognized, as was the need to ensure that students are prepared to take responsibility for their learning.
Emphysematous pyelonephritis: Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors
Authors: Lu Yu‐Chuan , Chiang Bing‐Juin , Pong Yuan‐Hung , Chen Chung‐Hsin , Pu Yeong‐Shiau , Hsueh Po‐Ren , Huang Chao‐Yuan
Published: August 2013

Objectives

Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a severe necrotizing infection of the renal parenchyma and perirenal tissues that is caused by gas‐producing bacterial pathogens. The aim of the present study was to determine the clinical characteristics and prognostic factors of patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and laboratory data, imaging findings, and outcomes of 32 patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was carried out on variables that were significantly associated with patient mortality.

Results

The overall survival rate was 87.5% (28/32). Escherichia coli (43.6%) was the most common organism cultured from urine and blood specimens. Hypoalbuminemia, shock as the presenting feature, bacteremia, need for hemodialysis and polymicrobial infection were significantly more common in cases resulting in death. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.96. The cut‐off point determined by the maximum Youden index (0.93) for three of these five factors yielded a sensitivity of 1.00 and specificity of 0.93. Shock as an initial presentation (P = 0.039) and polymicrobial infection (P = 0.010) were significantly associated with poor outcome. There were no significant differences in the clinical or laboratory features of the patients who did or did not undergo nephrectomy.

Conclusion

Hypoalbuminemia, shock as an initial presentation, bacteremia, indications for hemodialysis and polymicrobial infection represent prognostic factors for mortality in patients with emphysematous pyelonephritis. Patients presenting with more than two of these prognostic factors carry the highest risk of mortality, and they require timely diagnosis and aggressive management.
Assessment of permanent brachytherapy combined with androgen deprivation therapy in an intermediate‐risk prostate cancer group without a Gleason score of 4 + 3: A single Japanese institutional experience
Authors: Okihara Koji , Kobayashi Kana , Iwata Tsuyoshi , Naitoh Yasuyuki , Kamoi Kazumi , Kawauchi Akihiro , Yamada Kei , Miki Tsuneharu
Published: August 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the outcome of low‐dose‐rate permanent brachytherapy combined with anti‐androgen deprivation therapy for intermediate‐risk prostate cancer excluding biopsy Gleason score 4 + 3.

Methods

Patients included in the intermediate‐risk group were those presenting clinical stage T1c to T2c (by magnetic resonance imaging staging), Gleason score 3 + 4 or lower and/or prostate‐specific antigen less than 20 ng/mL, whereas those with clinical stage T1c to T2a, Gleason score 3 + 3 and prostate‐specific antigen less than 10 ng/mL represented the low‐risk group, and were used as controls. In the intermediate‐risk group, therapy with a luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone analog was continued for at least 6 months before and after permanent brachytherapy.

Results

A total of 147 low‐risk group patients and 139 intermediate‐risk group patients were included in the study. The median follow up was 51 and 52 months for the intermediate‐risk group and low‐risk group, respectively. The 5‐year overall, cause‐specific and distant‐metastasis‐free survival rates in the low‐risk group and intermediate‐risk group were 97.6/99.2, 100/100 and 100/100%, respectively. The 5‐year biochemical disease‐free survival in these groups were 95.9 and 92.5%, respectively (P = 0.18). There was no sexual activity and desire for erection before treatment in 50%, and in 46% of the patients in the low‐risk group and intermediate‐risk group, respectively. Overall satisfaction score at 2 years after permanent brachytherapy significantly improved, compared with pretreatment (P = 0.0399).

Conclusions

In intermediate‐risk prostate cancer, excluding biopsy Gleason score 4 + 3, permanent brachytherapy combined with androgen deprivation therapy for 6 months or more represents an effective treatment option in Japanese patients, based on a favorable prognosis, adverse event profile and quality of life analysis.
Effect of DA‐8031, a novel oral compound for premature ejaculation, on male rat sexual behavior
Authors: Kang Kyung Koo , Sung Ji Hyun , Kim Soon Hoe , Lee Sukhyang
Published: August 2013

Objectives

DA‐8031 is a potent and selective serotonin transporter inhibitor developed for the treatment of premature ejaculation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of DA‐8031 on male sexual behavior in a rat model.

Methods

Sexual behavior was examined after an acute oral administration of 10, 30 or 100 mg/kg of DA‐8031 in copulation studies with female rats. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated after oral administration of DA‐8031 at a dose level of 30 mg/kg.

Results

DA‐8031 treatment produced a dose‐dependent increase in ejaculation latency time and showed statistical significance at 30 and 100 mg/kg dosage levels compared with the vehicle (P < 0.05). In addition, DA‐8031 treatment reduced the mean number of ejaculations in a dose‐dependent manner. No changes in post‐ejaculatory interval, numbers of mounts, intromissions or ejaculations were observed at any dose. In pharmacokinetic study, the blood concentration of DA‐8031 peaked at 0.38 ± 0.14 h after oral administration, and then rapidly declined with a half‐life of 1.79 ± 0.32 h.

Conclusions

Treatment with DA‐8031 delays the ejaculation latency time without affecting the initiation of mounting behavior or post‐ejaculatory interval in rats. Furthermore, DA‐8031 is rapidly absorbed and eliminated after oral administration in rats. These preclinical findings provide a clue for the clinical testing of DA‐8031 as an “on‐demand” agent for premature ejaculation.