bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
l‐Arginine modulates neonatal lymphocyte proliferation through an interleukin‐2 independent pathway
Authors: Yu Hong‐Ren , Kuo Ho‐Chang , Huang Li‐Tung , Chen Chih‐Cheng , Tain You‐Lin , Sheen Jiunn‐Ming , Tiao Mao‐Meng , Huang Hsin‐Chun , Yang Kuender D. , Ou Chia‐Yo , Hsu Te‐Yao
Published: April 2014

In cases of arginine depletion, lymphocyte proliferation, cytokine production and CD3ζ chain expression are all diminished. In addition to myeloid suppressor cells, polymorphonuclear cells (PMN) also exert T‐cell immune suppressive effects through arginase‐induced l‐arginine depletion, especially during pregnancy. In this study, we investigated how arginase/l‐arginine modulates neonatal lymphocyte proliferation. Results showed that the neonatal plasma l‐arginine level was lower than in adults (48·1 ± 11·3 versus 86·5 ± 14·6 μm; P = 0·003). Neonatal PMN had a greater abundance of arginase I protein than adult PMN. Both transcriptional regulation and post‐transcriptional regulation were responsible for the higher arginase I expression of neonatal PMN. Exogenous l‐arginine enhanced neonate lymphocyte proliferation but not that of adult cells. The RNA‐binding protein HuR was important but was not the only modulation factor in l‐arginine‐regulated neonatal T‐cell proliferation. l‐Arginine‐mediated neonatal lymphocyte proliferation could not be blocked by interleukin‐2 receptor blocking antibodies. These results suggest that the altered arginase/l‐arginine cascade may be one of the mechanisms that contribute to altered neonatal immune responses. Exogenous l‐arginine could enhance neonate lymphocyte proliferation through an interleukin‐2‐independent pathway.
Is there an Intermarriage Premium for Male Immigrants? Exogamy and Earnings in Sweden 1990–2009
Authors: Dribe Martin , Nystedt Paul
Published: April 2014

This paper analyzes the impact of intermarriage on the economic integration of immigrants in Sweden, measured by annual earnings. We use longitudinal register data for the period 1990–2009 for the total population of immigrant men born 1960–1974. The results reveal large intermarriage premiums, but overall this seems to be a result of selection effects as most of the premium is visible already at the time of marriage. For the most economically marginalized immigrants, however, an intermarriage premium arises within marriage implying that forming a union with a native triggers a more rapid earnings growth among them.
Non‐surgical treatment of deep wounds triggered by harmful physical and chemical agents: a successful combined use of collagenase and hyaluronic acid
Authors: Onesti Maria G , Fino Pasquale , Ponzo Ida , Ruggieri Martina , Scuderi Nicolò
Published: April 2014

Some chronic ulcers often occur with slough, not progressing through the normal stages of wound healing. Treatment is long and other therapies need to be performed in addition to surgery. Patients not eligible for surgery because of ASA class (American Society of Anesthesiologists class) appear to benefit from chemical therapy with collagenase or hydrocolloids in order to prepare the wound bed, promoting the healing process. We describe four cases of traumatic, upper limb deep wounds caused by different physical and chemical agents, emphasising the effectiveness of treatment based on topical application of collagenase and hyaluronic acid (HA) before standardised surgical procedures. We performed careful disinfection of lesions combined with application of topical cream containing hyaluronic acid, bacterial fermented sodium hyaluronate (0·2%w/w) salt, and bacterial collagenase obtained from non‐pathogenic Vibrio alginolyticus (>2·0 nkat1/g). In one patient a dermo‐epidermal graft was used to cover the wide loss of substance. In two patients application of a HA‐based dermal substitute was done. We obtained successful results in terms of wound healing, with satisfactory aesthetic result and optimal recovery of the affected limb functionality. Topical application of collagenase and HA, alone or before standardised surgical procedures allows faster wound healing.
The ‘French Fry’ VAC technique: hybridisation of traditional open wound NPWT with closed incision NPWT
Authors: Chopra Karan , Tadisina Kashyap K , Singh Devinder P
Published: April 2014

Surgical site occurrences (SSO), specifically surgical site infections represent a significant burden in the US health care system. It has been hypothesised that postoperative dressing can help drive down SSO. We describe the successful use of a novel technique combining both closed incision and open negative pressure wound therapy in the management of a high‐risk wound associated with lymphoedema of obesity.
PHOTOKERATITIS FROM 193 nm ARGON‐FLUORIDE LASER RADIATION
Authors: Sliney David H. , Krueger Ronald R. , Trokel Stephen L. , Rappaport Kenneth D.
Published: April 2014

Abstract— —The threshold for photokeratitis at 193 nm was obtained for the rabbit cornea using an ArF excimer laser. Because ablation occurs at a level below that for photokeratitis, it was necessary to expose the cornea to a lengthy series of low‐energy exposures. It is concluded that the 193 nm photons have such a shallow penetration depth, being limited to the outermost epithelial cells, that classical photokeratitis occurs from the fluorescence emitted at the corneal epithelial absorption site. An intact tear film may help to protect the cornea from low‐level, scattered 193 nm laser radiation.
COMPARATIVE STUDIES OF FEMTOSECOND TO MICROSECOND LASER PULSES ON SELECTIVE PIGMENTED CELL INJURY IN SKIN
Authors: Watanabe Shinichi , Anderson R. Rox , Brorson Stuart , Dalickas Gail , Fujimoto James G. , Flotte Thomas J.
Published: April 2014

Abstract— —Threshold radiant exposures for grossly apparent immediate whitening and ultrastructural alterations of melanosomes in black guinea pig skin were determined for a series of red visible laser pulses ranging from 4 × 10−4 to 6.5 × 10−14 s. Threshold exposures for melanosomal injury were found to be independent of pulsewidth when the pulsewidths were below the estimated thermal relaxation time of melanosomes. Threshold radiant exposures for melanosomal injury were found to increase when the pulsewidths were approximately equal to or above the thermal relaxation time of melanosomes. At longer pulse durations, fracturing of melanosomes was not observed despite the longer exposures necessary for injury. Instead, perimelanosomal vacuoles were noted. These findings are consistent with the theory of selective photothermolysis and provide evidence for the thermal initiation of melanosomal disruption.
CHANGES IN TUMOR INTERSTITIAL PRESSURE INDUCED BY PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY
Authors: Fingar Victor H. , Wieman T. Jeffery , Doak Karola Weber
Published: April 2014

Abstract— —This study has examined the changes in tumor interstitial pressure exhibited during and after photodynamic therapy (PDT). The kinetics of these changes are marked by an initial decrease, followed by a rapid rise in tumor interstitial pressure. We have also employed two inhibitory agents to evaluate the different components of the pressure curve. Specially designed pressure chambers were seeded with chondrosarcoma and implanted subcutaneously in rats. Animals were injected with 0–50 mg/kg Photofrin II (i.v.) 7 days post‐implantation and tumors were exposed to 0–540 J/cm2 630 nm 24 h later. Interstitial pressure was monitored via a transducer connected to the implanted chamber. Additional groups of animals were injected with either indomethacin (an inhibitor of thromboxane synthesis) or Ketanserin (a serotonin antagonist) before light treatment. Porphyrin doses of 10 mg/kg and above (135 J/cm2), or light doses of 135 J/cm2 and above (25 mg/kg Photofrin II) were effective in modifying interstitial pressure. Porphyrin doses greater than 25 mg/kg, or light doses greater than 270 J/cm2 produced no further increases in interstitial pressure. Animals given indomethacin (10 mg/kg i.p.) exhibited the initial decrease in pressure during light treatment, but showed no increase past baseline levels. Animals given Ketanserin (10 mg/kg i.p.) demonstrated no decrease in pressure during PDT, but showed the same elevations in pressure as controls. This suggests that two independent mechanisms account for the different components of the pressure curve, and that serotonin release may occur during PDT.
SPECTROSCOPIC DIAGNOSIS OF COLONIC DYSPLASIA
Authors: Richards‐Kortum R. , Rava R. P. , Petras R. E. , Fitzmaurice M. , Sivak M. , Feld M. S.
Published: April 2014

Abstract— —We have developed a method for defining diagnostic algorithms for pathologic conditions based on fluorescence spectroscopy. We apply this method to human colon tissue and show that fluorescence can be used to diagnose the presence or absence of colonic adenoma. This method uses fluorescence excitation–emission matrices (EEM) to identify optimal excitation regions for obtaining fluorescence emission spectra which can be used to differentiate normal and pathologic tissues. In the case of normal and adenomatous colon tissue, these were found to be: 330, 370, and 430 nm ± 10 nm. At these excitation wavelengths, emission wavelengths for use in diagnostic algorithms are identified from average difference and ratio of the spectra from normal and pathologic tissues. In colon tissue, at 370 nm excitation, 404, 480, and 680 nm were found to be useful emission wavelengths for diagnosing the presence of adenoma in vitro. The basis of colon tissue autofluorescence was investigated using EEM of pure molecules and relevant excitation–emission maxima in the literature.
APPLICATION OF CHARGE‐COUPLED DEVICE TECHNOLOGY FOR MEASUREMENT OF LASER LIGHT AND FLUORESCENCE DISTRIBUTION IN TUMORS FOR PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY
Authors: Straight R. C. , Benner R. E. , McClane R. W. , Go P. M. N. Y. H. , Yoon G. , Dixon J. A.
Published: April 2014

Abstract— —Laser and fluorescence light distributions with applications for photodynamic therapy were measured in mouse tumors using a non‐invasive electronic optical imaging system. The system consists of a liquid‐nitrogen‐cooled, charge‐coupled‐device (CCD) array camera under computer control with 576 × 384 detection elements having dimensions of 23 μm × 23 μm. The available dynamic range of the array is approx. 103, and the effective wavelength range is 400–1000 nm. An interstitially placed cylindrical diffusing optical fiber was used to provide tumor illumination. The light distribution pattern from the fiber was determined by immersing the cylindrical diffusing tip in a fluorescing solution and recording the emission image. Fluorescence imaging facilitates an accurate measurement of light intensity distribution while avoiding problems associated with the directional nature of other detection methods used with diffusing fibers. Radiation‐induced fibrosarcoma tumors on C3H mice were grown to about 1 cm diameter for in vivo recording of light distribution from the tumor volume and for determination of effective light penetration distance at 18 wavelengths in the range 458–995 nm. Endogenous tumor fluorescence and Photofrin II fluorescence intensity were measured over the wavelength range 585–725 nm to investigate the possible application of CCD imaging technology for drug distribution measurements. Model experiments were begun to evaluate the relative importance of potential distortions of light distribution measurements using this approach.
Concept analysis: patient autonomy in a caring context
Authors: Lindberg Catharina , Fagerström Cecilia , Sivberg Bengt , Willman Ania
Published: April 2014

Aim

This paper is a report of an analysis of the concept of patient autonomy

Background

Many problems regarding patient autonomy in healthcare contexts derive from the patient's dependent condition as well as the traditional authoritarian position of healthcare professionals. Existing knowledge and experience reveal a lack of consensus among nurses regarding the meaning of this ethical concept.

Design

Concept analysis.

Data Sources

Medline, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library and PsycINFO were searched (2005–June 2013) using the search blocks ‘autonomy’, ‘patient’ and ‘nursing/caring’. A total of 41 articles were retrieved.

Review Methods

The Evolutionary Method of Concept Analysis by Rodgers was used to identify and construct the meaning of the concept of patient autonomy in a caring context.

Results

Five attributes were identified, thus creating the following descriptive definition: ‘Patient autonomy is a gradual, time‐changing process of (re‐)constructing autonomy through the interplay of to be seen as a person, the capacity to act and the obligation to take responsibility for one's actions’. Patient vulnerability was shown to be the antecedent of patient autonomy and arises due to an impairment of a person's physical and/or mental state. The consequences of patient autonomy were discussed in relation to preserving control and freedom.

Conclusion

Patient autonomy in a caring context does not need to be the same before, during and after a care episode. A tentative model has been constructed, thus extending the understanding of this ethical concept in a caring context.
Adolescents developing life skills for managing type 1 diabetes: a qualitative, realistic evaluation of a guided self‐determination‐youth intervention
Authors: Husted Gitte R. , Esbensen Bente Appel , Hommel Eva , Thorsteinsson Birger , Zoffmann Vibeke
Published: April 2014

Aim

To explore and illustrate how the Guided Self‐Determination‐Youth method influences the development of life skills in adolescents with type 1 diabetes supported by their parents and healthcare providers.

Background

Evidence‐based methods that accomplish constructive cooperation between adolescents with poorly controlled type 1 diabetes, their parents and healthcare providers are needed. We adjusted an adult life skills intervention comprising reflection sheets and advanced communication for use by adolescent‐parent‐professional triads in outpatient visits.

Design

A qualitative realistic evaluation design comprising eight context‐mechanism‐outcome configurations directed the analysis of the Guided Self‐Determination‐Youth's influence on adolescent‐parent‐professional triads to evaluate what worked for whom, how and in what circumstances. Thirteen adolescents aged 13–18 years diagnosed with type 1 diabetes for ≥1 year and having poor glycaemic control participated together with 17 parents and eight healthcare providers. Data were collected from December 2009–March 2012 and consisted of digitally recorded outpatient Guide Self‐Determination‐Youth visits collected during the intervention period (11·5–24·5 months) and semi‐structured interviews at 6‐month follow‐up.

Findings

Emerging life skills in adolescents were identified as: (1) developing new relatedness with healthcare providers and parents; (2) becoming decision makers in their own lives with diabetes; and (3) growing personally. Reflection sheets combined with healthcare providers' advanced communication were central to promoting mutual problem‐solving.

Conclusion

A life skills approach turned outpatient visits into person‐specific visits with improved cooperation patterns in the triads. Combining reflection sheets and advanced communication skills supported adolescents in beginning a process of developing life skills.
Biogeography of western Mediterranean butterflies: combining turnover and nestedness components of faunal dissimilarity
Authors: Dapporto Leonardo , Fattorini Simone , Vodă Raluca , Dincă Vlad , Vila Roger
Published: April 2014

Aim

Unpartitioned dissimilarity indices such as the Sørensen index (βsor) tend to categorize areas according to species number. The use of turnover indices, such as the Simpson index (βsimp), may lead to the loss of important information represented by the nestedness component (βnest). Recent studies have suggested the importance of integrating nestedness and turnover information. We evaluated this proposition by comparing biogeographical patterns obtained by unpartitioned (βsor) and partitioned indices (βsimp and βnest) on presence data of western Mediterranean butterflies.

Location

Western Mediterranean.

Methods

We assessed the regionalization of 81 mainland and island faunas according to partitioned and unpartitioned dissimilarity by using cluster analyses with the unweighted pair‐group method using arithmetic averages (UPGMA) combined with non‐metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS). We also carried out dissimilarity interpolation for βsor, βsimp, βnest and the βnest/βsor ratio, to identify geographical patterns of variation in faunal dissimilarity.

Results

When the unpartitioned βsor index was used, the clustering of sites allowed a clear distinction between insular and mainland species assemblages. Most islands were grouped together, irrespective of their mainland source, because of the dominant effect of their shared low richness. βsimp was the most effective index for clustering islands with their respective mainland source. βsimp clustered mainland sites into broader regions than clusters obtained using βsor. A comparison of regionalization and interpolation provided complementary information and revealed that, in different regions, the patterns highlighted by βsor could largely be determined either by nestedness or turnover.

Main conclusions

Partitioned and unpartitioned indices convey complementary information, and are able to reveal the influence of historical and ecological processes in structuring species assemblages. When the effect of nestedness is strong, the exclusive use of turnover indices can generate geographically coherent groupings, but can also result in the loss of important information. Indeed, various factors, such as colonization–extinction events, climatic parameters and the peninsular effect, may determine dissimilarity patterns expressed by the nestedness component.
A role for SNAREs in neuronal survival?
Authors: Harper Callista B. , Bademosi Adekunle T. , Coulson Elizabeth J. , Meunier Frederic A.
Published: April 2014

Read the full article ‘Botulinum protease‐cleaved snare fragments induce cytotoxicity in neuroblastoma cells’ on page 781.
Deletion of N‐myc downstream‐regulated gene 2 attenuates reactive astrogliosis and inflammatory response in a mouse model of cortical stab injury
Authors: Takarada‐Iemata Mika , Kezuka Dai , Takeichi Toshiaki , Ikawa Masahito , Hattori Tsuyoshi , Kitao Yasuko , Hori Osamu
Published: April 2014

N‐myc downstream‐regulated gene 2 (Ndrg2) is a differentiation‐ and stress‐associated molecule predominantly expressed in astrocytes in the CNS. In this study, we examined the expression and the role of Ndrg2 after cortical stab injury. We observed that Ndrg2 expression was elevated in astrocytes surrounding the wounded area as early as day 1 after injury in wild‐type mice. Deletion of Ndrg2 resulted in lower induction of reactive astroglial and microglial markers in the injured cortex. Histological analysis showed reduced levels of hypertrophic changes in astrocytes, accumulation of microglia, and neuronal death in Ndrg2−/− mice after injury. Furthermore, activation of the IL‐6/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway, including the expression of IL‐6 family cytokines and phosphorylation of STAT3, was markedly reduced in Ndrg2−/− mice after injury. In a culture system, both of Il6 and Gfap were up‐regulated in wild‐type astrocytes treated with forskolin. Deletion of Ndrg2 attenuated induction of these genes, but did not alter proliferation or migration of astrocytes. Adenovirus‐mediated reexpression of Ndrg2 rescued the reduction of IL‐6 expression after forskolin stimulation. These findings suggest that Ndrg2 plays a key role in reactive astrogliosis after cortical stab injury through a mechanism involving the positive regulation of IL‐6/STAT3 signaling.

Astrocytes play a key role in central nervous system (CNS) injury. We demonstrate that Ndrg2 (N‐myc downstream‐regulated gene 2) is up‐regulated in the early phase after brain injury, and that its deletion alters astrogliosis, inflammation, and neuronal death in vivo. The function of Ndrg2 could correlate with the interleukin IL‐6 pathway in astrocytes. Our findings have important implications for the modulation of inflammation in the CNS.

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Identification and quantification of neuropeptides in naïve mouse spinal cord using mass spectrometry reveals [des‐Ser1]‐cerebellin as a novel modulator of nociception
Authors: Su Jie , Sandor Katalin , Sköld Karl , Hökfelt Tomas , Svensson Camilla I. , Kultima Kim
Published: April 2014

Neuropeptide transmitters involved in nociceptive processes are more likely to be expressed in the dorsal than the ventral horn of the spinal cord. This study was designed to examine the relative distribution of neuropeptides between the dorsal and ventral spinal cord in naïve mice using liquid chromatography, high‐resolution mass spectrometry. We identified and relatively quantified 36 well‐characterized full‐length neuropeptides and an additional 168 not previously characterized peptides. By extraction with organic solvents we identified seven additional full‐length neuropeptides. The peptide [des‐Ser1]‐cerebellin (desCER), originating from cerebellin precursor protein 1 (CBLN1), was predominantly expressed in the dorsal horn. Immunohistochemistry showed the presence of CBLN1 immunoreactivity with a punctate cytoplasmic pattern in neuronal cell bodies throughout the spinal gray matter. The signal was stronger in the dorsal compared to the ventral horn, with most CBLN1 positive cells present in outer laminae II/III, colocalizing with calbindin, a marker for excitatory interneurons. Intrathecal injection of desCER induced a dose‐dependent mechanical hypersensitivity but not heat or cold hypersensitivity. This study provides evidence for involvement of desCER in nociception and provides a platform for continued exploration of involvement of novel neuropeptides in the regulation of nociceptive transmission.

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Neuropeptides involved in nociceptive processes are more likely to be expressed in the dorsal than the ventral horn of spinal cord. Well‐characterized full‐length neuropeptides as well as uncharacterized neuropeptides were quantified by mass spectrometry. The CBLN1‐derived peptide [des‐Ser1]‐cerebellin (desCER) is predominantly expressed in the dorsal horn, and intrathecal injection of desCER induced a dose‐dependent mechanical hypersensitivity.
Translational Neuroendocrinology: Control of Human Growth
Authors: Clayton P. E. , Gill M. S. , Tillmann V. , Westwood M.
Published: April 2014

Human growth is driven by both basic cell processes as well as hormones, in particular the growth hormone (GH)–insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐1 axis. Understanding how these mechanisms are coordinated is not only critical to achieving a normal growth rate, but also to recognising potential new causes of disordered growth and how they might be treated.

We have demonstrated in healthy children that height is gained by periods of rapid growth interspersed by periods of very slow growth or even stasis. We have also shown that a lower order organism, Caenorhabditis elegans, grows in a similar manner. By contrast, secretion of GH from somatotrophs occurs on a daily basis in discrete pulses over a 24‐h period. We have used the measurement of GH in urine as a surrogate marker of GH secretion to show that there are rhythms of GH output with frequencies of several days. We then assessed which attributes of these GH profiles were related to growth and found that disorderliness in the GH profile (as measured by approximate entropy) was related to better growth rate.

This feature was then tested in the dwarf rat using different GH regimens to introduce variation into the administration of daily GH injections. Better long bone growth was associated with week‐to‐week or even random dose variation compared to the same amount of GH delivered as a standard daily dose.

Understanding the control of growth has implications in clinical practice for modelling GH treatment regimens based on physiological principles.
Improved nurse–parent communication in neonatal intensive care unit: evaluation and adjustment of an implementation strategy
Authors: Weis Janne , Zoffmann Vibeke , Egerod Ingrid
Published: April 2014

Aims and objectives

To evaluate and adjust systematic implementation of guided family‐centred care in a neonatal intensive care unit.

Background

Family‐centred care is valued in neonatal intensive care units internationally, but innovative strategies are needed to realise the principles. Guided family‐centred care was developed to facilitate person‐centred communication by bridging the gap between theory and practice in family‐centred care. Main mechanisms of guided family‐centred care are structured dialogue, reflection and person‐centred communication.

Design

Qualitative and quantitative data were used to monitor participatory implementation of a systematic approach to training and certification of nurses delivering guided family‐centred care.

Methods

Systematic implementation of guided family‐centred care included workshops, supervised delivery and certification. Evaluation and adjustment of nurse adherence to guided family‐centred care was conducted by monitoring (1) knowledge, (2) delivery, (3) practice uptake and (4) certification.

Results

Implementation was improved by the development of a strategic framework and by adjusting the framework according to the real‐life context of a busy neonatal care unit. Promoting practice uptake was initially underestimated, but nurse guided family‐centred care training was improved by increasing the visibility of the study in the unit, demonstrating intervention progress to the nurses and assuring a sense of ownership among nurse leaders and nonguided‐family‐centred‐care‐trained nurses.

Conclusions

An adjusted framework for guided family‐centred care implementation was successful in overcoming barriers and promoting facilitators.

Relevance to clinical practice

Insights gained from our pioneering work might help nurses in a similar context to reach their goals of improving family‐centred care.
Nurses' attitudes towards medical devices in healthcare delivery: a systematic review
Authors: Zhang Wei , Barriball K Louise , While Alison E
Published: April 2014

Aims and objectives

To describe nurses' attitudes towards medical devices and the factors influencing these attitudes.

Background

Nurses work in an increasingly technological environment with many medical devices supporting healthcare delivery. Understanding nurses' attitudes towards medical devices is important for their successful use. There has been no published systematic review which has examined nurses' attitudes towards the use of medical devices within nursing practice.

Design

A systematic review including all study designs.

Methods

A search of six databases was undertaken for publications written in English dating from 1985–June 2013. The search yielded 30 studies.

Results

Nurses reported a multidimensional perception of medical devices. While some nurses recognised the potential contribution of medical devices to better outcomes for patients and themselves, the use of medical devices was also associated with increased personal stress, decreased autonomy and increased administrative time. The design of devices, knowledge and training relating to device management and use were identified as key factors influencing nurses' attitudes.

Conclusion

To ensure adequate knowledge and skill, the provision of training on device management and use, together with good device designs, is essential to foster positive attitudes. Further studies focusing on developing improved understanding of nurses' attitudes are needed.

Relevance to clinical practice

Healthcare delivery increasingly incorporates the use of medical devices so that understanding nurses' attitudes towards medical devices is essential for their safe implementation.
Subtotal epiglottectomy for the management of epiglottic retroversion in a dog
Authors: Mullins R. , McAlinden A. B. , Goodfellow M.
Published: April 2014

A six‐year‐old male neutered Yorkshire terrier was evaluated for severe, acute‐onset, inspiratory dyspnoea. Laryngoscopy revealed retroversion of the epiglottis with intermittent occlusion of the rima glottidis during inspiration. The dog underwent both temporary and permanent epiglottopexy procedures that were unsuccessful. Subtotal epiglottectomy was performed and resulted in permanent resolution of dyspnoea without evidence of dysphagia or aspiration. This case highlights potential complications associated with management of this condition as well as describing the successful use of subtotal epiglottectomy in the dog.
A retrospective study of positive pressure ventilation in 58 dogs: indications, prognostic factors and outcome
Authors: Bruchim Y. , Aroch I. , Sisso A. , Kushnir Y. , Epstein A. , Kelmer E. , Segev G.
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVES

To assess the usefulness of clinical and clinicopathological parameters as prognostic markers of survival in dogs undergoing positive pressure ventilation.

METHODS

Retrospective study of case records of 58 client‐owned dogs undergoing positive pressure ventilation. Dogs were divided into two groups; inadequate oxygenation due to pulmonary parenchymal disease (Group 1) and inadequate ventilation (Group 2).

RESULTS

Median duration of positive pressure ventilation was 30 (range 10 to 136) hours. Survival rate was 32% (19 dogs). Survivors were significantly younger (P<0·005) and had significantly higher (P<0·002) medianPaO2/FiO2ratio at 4 to 12 hours postinitiation of positive pressure ventilation, and immediately before weaning (P<0·006) compared to non‐survivors. A receiver operator characteristics analysis ofPaO2/FiO2immediately before weaning as predictor of survival had an area under the curve of 0·76 (95% confidence interval 0·54 to 0·97), with optimal cut‐off point of 252mmHg, corresponding to a sensitivity and specificity of 0·80 and 0·79, respectively. The survival rates of dogs withPaO2/FiO2less than 200mmHgat 4 to 12 hours postinitiation of positive pressure ventilation, or immediately before weaning were 15% (3/20 dogs) and 6% (1/16 dogs), respectively.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

ThePaO2/FiO2ratio is an early prognostic indicator of successful weaning in dogs undergoing positive pressure ventilation.
Sleep continuity and total sleep time are associated with task‐switching and preparation in young and older adults
Authors: Wilckens Kristine A. , Woo Sarah G. , Erickson Kirk I. , Wheeler Mark E.
Published: April 2014

Ageing is associated with changes in sleep and decline executive functions, such as task‐switching and task preparation. Given that sleep affects executive function, age‐related changes in executive function may be attributable to changes in sleep. The present study used a sleep detection device to examine whether or not wake time after sleep onset and total sleep time moderated age differences in task‐switching performance and participants' ability to reduce switch costs when given time to prepare. Participants were cognitively healthy [Mini Mental State Examination > 26] younger (n = 54; mean age = 22.9; 67.8% female) and older (n = 45; mean age 62.8; 71.1% female) adults. Using a task‐switching paradigm, which manipulated preparation time, we found that smaller global switch costs were associated with lower wake time after sleep onset and longer total sleep time. Greater preparation effects on local switch costs and adoption of a task‐set were associated with lower wake time after sleep onset, although this effect was significant only in older adults when stratified by age group. This association was independent of inhibition and working memory abilities. The lack of interactions between sleep and age group indicated that age differences in switch costs were not moderated by better sleep. Our results suggest that young and older adults may benefit similarly from lower wake time after sleep onset and longer total sleep time in overall performance, and individuals with less wake time after sleep onset are more likely to engage preparatory strategies to reduce switch costs and boost task‐switching performance.
A Randomized Study Assessing the Effect of Diet in Cats with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Freeman L.M. , Rush J.E. , Cunningham S.M. , Bulmer B.J.
Published: April 2014

Background

Diet might influence progression of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Objective

To investigate whether diet composition could alter clinical, biochemical, or echocardiographic variables in cats with HCM.

Animals

Twenty‐nine cats with HCM (International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council stage 1b) examined at a university teaching hospital.

Methods

Randomized, placebo‐controlled trial. After physical examination, echocardiogram, and blood collection, cats were randomized to 1 of 3 diets, which varied in carbohydrate and fat content and ingredients. Measurements were repeated after 6 months.

Results

There were no significant differences among the 3 groups at baseline. After 6 months, there were no significant changes in the primary endpoints, left ventricular free wall (Group A, P = .760; Group B, P = .475; Group C, P = .066) or interventricular septal thickness in diastole (Group A, P = .528; Group B, P = .221; Group C, P = .097). Group A had significant increases in BUN (P = .008) and cholesterol (P = .021), while Group B had significant increases in BUN (P = .008), cholesterol (P = .007), and triglycerides (P = .005), and significant decreases in NT‐proBNP (P = .013) and hs‐troponin I (P = .043). Group C had significant decreases in body weight (P = .021), left atrial dimension (P = .035), interventricular septal thickness in systole (P = .038), and liver enzymes (P = .034–.038).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

These data suggest that diet might influence some clinical, biochemical, and echocardiographic variables in cats with HCM.
Contrasting relationships between clade age and temperature along latitudinal versus elevational gradients for woody angiosperms in forests of South America
Authors: Qian Hong
Published: April 2014

Question

Is clade age positively correlated with minimum temperature in angiosperm woody assemblages along elevational thermal gradients, as predicted by the phylogenetic niche conservatism hypothesis and observed along latitudinal gradients?

Location

South America.

Methods

I assembled one latitudinal gradient and one elevational gradient of angiosperm woody plant assemblages in forest plots, both of which started at equatorial humid forests at low elevations. The latitudinal gradient comprised 37 plots and the elevational gradient included 34 forest plots. Each plot is 0.1 ha. Correlation analysis was used to determine relationships among taxonomic richness, mean clade age (measured as mean family age of each forest plot), latitude, elevation and minimum temperature (measured as mean temperature of the coldest month).

Results

Woody plant species richness strongly decreases with increasing latitude and elevation on the two gradients. Mean clade age is positively correlated with minimum temperature for the latitudinal gradient but is negatively correlated with minimum temperature for the elevational gradient.

Conclusion

The result of this study based on the latitudinal gradient supports the prediction of the phylogenetic niche conservatism hypothesis for the relationship between clade age and temperature, whereas the result based on the elevational gradient is contrary to the prediction of this hypothesis. The contrasting patterns found in the present study for the clade age‐minimum temperature relationship along the latitudinal vs elevational gradients suggest that more studies are needed in order to determine how general is the positive relationship between clade age and temperature predicted by the PNC along both latitudinal and elevational gradients across the globe.
Perpetrator Abhorrence: Disgust as a Stop Sign
Authors: Munch‐Jurišić Ditte Marie
Published: April 2014

Most contemporary research on disgust can be divided into “disgust advocates” and “disgust skeptics.” The so‐called advocates argue that disgust can have a positive influence on our moral judgment; skeptics warn that it can mislead us toward prejudice and discrimination. This article compares this disagreement to a structurally similar debate in the field of genocide studies concerning the phenomenon of “perpetrator abhorrence.” While some soldiers report having felt strong disgust in the moment of committing or witnessing atrocity, scholars disagree on whether such disgust is moral in nature. These empirical cases provide us with reasons to reconsider the normative features of disgust. Inspired by the conceptualization of disgust inImmanuelKant andAurelKolnai, and as an alternative to both the disgust advocates and the skeptics, this article argues that the analogy of a stop sign can better help us define disgust responses.
Three Approaches to Doing Philosophy: a Proposal for Grouping Philosophical Exercises in Classroom Teaching
Authors: Kienstra Natascha , Karskens Machiel , Imants Jeroen
Published: April 2014

Classroom teaching has two aims: learning philosophy, that is, the great philosophers, and doing philosophy. This article provides an overview of thirty exercises that can be used for doing philosophy, grouped into three approaches. The first approach, doing philosophy as connective truth finding or communicative action, is related to such philosophers as Dewey and Arendt, and is illustrated by the Socratic method. The second, doing philosophy as test‐based truth finding, is related to such philosophers as Popper, and is illustrated by Community of Philosophical Inquiry. The third, doing philosophy as juridical debate, judging truth‐value and making judgment, is related to such philosophers as Foucault, and is illustrated by philosophical debate. The analysis shows that although the classical methods applied by the great philosophers appear to be missing from classroom exercises, they do, in fact, remain at the heart of the matter.
Paracoccidioidomycosis in Mexico: clinical and epidemiological data from 93 new cases (1972–2012)
Authors: López‐Martínez Rubén , Hernández‐Hernández Francisca , Méndez‐Tovar Luis Javier , Manzano–Gayosso Patricia , Bonifaz Alexandro , Arenas Roberto , Padilla‐Desgarennes María del Carmen , Estrada Roberto , Chávez Guadalupe
Published: April 2014

Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is an endemic systemic infection in several countries of Latin America. The few registered cases in Mexico most likely do not reflect the real frequency. Disseminate the epidemiological and clinical data of unreported cases of PCM in Mexico from 1972 until 2012 is the aim of this work. Epidemiological and clinical information of non‐published cases of PCM was requested from the principal mycological diagnosis centres in Mexico. A total of 93 cases were received. The infection was found predominantly in men (95.7%), peasants (88.5%) and individual between 31 and 60 years of age. Most of the cases were found in tropical areas of the Gulf of Mexico (54.84%) and the Pacific littoral (20.3%). The main sites of dissemination were the oral mucosa (39.38%) and skin (34.05%). The most effective treatments were itraconazole alone and the combination of itraconazole with sulfamethoxazole‐trimethoprim. PCM is a subdiagnosed pathology in Mexico. Therefore, adequate training is necessary to determine the current status of this mycosis.
Abscisic acid (ABA) sensitivity regulates desiccation tolerance in germinated Arabidopsis seeds
Authors: Maia Julio , Dekkers Bas J. W. , Dolle Miranda J. , Ligterink Wilco , Hilhorst Henk W. M.
Published: April 2014

During germination, orthodox seeds lose their desiccation tolerance (DT) and become sensitive to extreme drying. Yet, DT can be rescued, in a well‐defined developmental window, by the application of a mild osmotic stress before dehydration. A role for abscisic acid (ABA) has been implicated in this stress response and in DT re‐establishment. However, the path from the sensing of an osmotic cue and its signaling to DT re‐establishment is still largely unknown.

Analyses of DT, ABA sensitivity, ABA content and gene expression were performed in desiccation‐sensitive (DS) and desiccation‐tolerant Arabidopsis thaliana seeds. Furthermore, loss and re‐establishment of DT in germinated Arabidopsis seeds was studied in ABA‐deficient and ABA‐insensitive mutants.

We demonstrate that the developmental window in which DT can be re‐established correlates strongly with the window in which ABA sensitivity is still present. Using ABA biosynthesis and signaling mutants, we show that this hormone plays a key role in DT re‐establishment.

Surprisingly, re‐establishment of DT depends on the modulation of ABA sensitivity rather than enhanced ABA content. In addition, the evaluation of several ABA‐insensitive mutants, which can still produce normal desiccation‐tolerant seeds, but are impaired in the re‐establishment of DT, shows that the acquisition of DT during seed development is genetically different from its re‐establishment during germination.
Discovery of pyrazines as pollinator sex pheromones and orchid semiochemicals: implications for the evolution of sexual deception
Authors: Bohman Björn , Phillips Ryan D. , Menz Myles H. M. , Berntsson Ben W. , Flematti Gavin R. , Barrow Russell A. , Dixon Kingsley W. , Peakall Rod
Published: April 2014

Sexually deceptive orchids employ floral volatiles to sexually lure their specific pollinators. How and why this pollination system has evolved independently on multiple continents remains unknown, although preadaptation is considered to have been important. Understanding the chemistry of sexual deception is a crucial first step towards solving this mystery.

The combination of gas chromatography‐electroantennographic detection (GC‐EAD), GC‐MS, synthesis and field bioassays allowed us to identify the volatiles involved in the interaction between the orchid Drakaea glyptodon and its sexually attracted male thynnine wasp pollinator, Zaspilothynnus trilobatus.

Three alkylpyrazines and one novel hydroxymethyl pyrazine were identified as the sex pheromone of Z. trilobatus and are also used by D. glyptodon for pollinator attraction. Given that our findings revealed a new chemical system for plants, we surveyed widely across representative orchid taxa for the presence of these compounds. With one exception, our chemical survey failed to detect pyrazines in related genera. Collectively, no evidence for preadaptation was found.

The chemistry of sexual deception is more diverse than previously known. Our results suggest that evolutionary novelty may have played a key role in the evolution of sexual deception and highlight the value of investigating unusual pollination systems for advancing our understanding of the role of chemistry in evolution.
Overviewing a Nurse‐Led, Community‐Based HIV PEP Program: Applying the Extant Literature in Frontline Practice
Authors: O'Byrne Patrick , MacPherson Paul , Roy Marie , Kitson Cynthia
Published: April 2014

This clinical concept paper overviews a program to facilitate access to postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) for gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. The project, which was a collaborative initiative involving the local School of Nursing, public health unit, AIDS service organization, hospital‐based HIV clinic, and an outpatient pharmacy, was implemented to circumvent common barriers to care identified in the literature. In this project, persons who present to one of the two participating clinics after having come, or likely having come, into contact with HIV within the previous 72 hr, are offered rapid HIV testing, also known as point‐of‐care (POC) testing, to rule out existing HIV infection, and provided with a follow‐up appointment booked at the HIV clinic. Clients are also offered comprehensive STI testing, and HIV prevention counseling. The implementation of this collaborative community‐based access‐to‐PEP project demonstrates the application of research to a real‐world health care setting, and it is hoped that others will adapt this model to their local setting, enabling ease of access to PEP for members of groups that are disproportionately affected by HIV.
A Stepwise Approach for the Management of Poisoning with Extracorporeal Treatments
Authors: Ghannoum Marc , Roberts Darren M. , Hoffman Robert S. , Ouellet Georges , Roy Louise , Decker Brian Scott , Bouchard Josée
Published: April 2014

The use of an extracorporeal treatment (ECTR) in a poisoned patient may be life‐saving in a limited number of scenarios. The decision‐processes surrounding the use of ECTR in poisoning is complex: most nephrologists are not trained to assess a poisoned patient while clinical toxicologists rarely prescribe ECTRs. Deciding on which ECTR is most appropriate for a poison requires a good understanding of the poison's physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties. Further, a detailed understanding of the capabilities and limitations of the different ECTRs can be useful to select the most appropriate ECTR for a given clinical situation. This manuscript provides a stepwise approach to assess the usefulness of ECTRs in poisoning.
A depositional model for hydromagnesite–magnesite playas near Atlin, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Power Ian M. , Wilson Sasha , Harrison Anna L. , Dipple Gregory M. , McCutcheon Jenine , Southam Gordon , Kenward Paul A.
Published: April 2014

This study formulates a comprehensive depositional model for hydromagnesite–magnesite playas. Mineralogical, isotopic and hydrogeochemical data are coupled with electron microscopy and field observations of the hydromagnesite–magnesite playas near Atlin, British Columbia, Canada. Four surface environments are recognized: wetlands, grasslands, localized mounds (metre‐scale) and amalgamated mounds composed primarily of hydromagnesite [Mg5(CO3)4(OH)2·4H2O], which are interpreted to represent stages in playa genesis. Water chemistry, precipitation kinetics and depositional environment are primary controls on sediment mineralogy. At depth (average ≈ 2 m), Ca–Mg‐carbonate sediments overlay early Holocene glaciolacustrine sediments indicating deposition within a lake post‐deglaciation. This mineralogical change corresponds to a shift from siliciclastic to chemical carbonate deposition as the supply of fresh surface water (for example, glacier meltwater) ceased and was replaced by alkaline groundwater. Weathering of ultramafic bedrock in the region produces Mg–HCO3 groundwater that concentrates by evaporation upon discharging into closed basins, occupied by the playas. An uppermost unit of Mg‐carbonate sediments (hydromagnesite mounds) overlies the Ca–Mg‐carbonate sediments. This second mineralogical shift corresponds to a change in the depositional environment from subaqueous to subaerial, occurring once sediments ‘emerged’ from the water surface. Capillary action and evaporation draw Mg–HCO3 water up towards the ground surface, precipitating Mg‐carbonate minerals. Evaporation at the water table causes precipitation of lansfordite [MgCO3·5H2O] which partially cements pre‐existing sediments forming a hardpan. As carbonate deposition continues, the weight of the overlying sediments causes compaction and minor lateral movement of the mounds leading to amalgamation of localized mounds. Radiocarbon dating of buried vegetation at the Ca–Mg‐carbonate boundary indicates that there has been ca 8000 years of continuous Mg‐carbonate deposition at a rate of 0·4 mm yr−1. The depositional model accounts for the many sedimentological, mineralogical and geochemical processes that occur in the four surface environments; elucidating past and present carbonate deposition.