bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Primaquine on Erythrocytes with NADH‐Methaemoglobin Reductase Deficiency and Low Glutathione Reductase Activity
Authors: Ajmar Franco , Gaetani Gianfranco , Garré Cecilia , Bianchi Giovanna , Salvidio Emanuele
Published: March 2012

Summary. Two young patients with congenital methaemoglobinaemia due to NADH‐methaemoglobin reductase deficiency associated with low activity of erythrocytic glutathione reductase (GSSG‐R) are described. Their red cells, labelled with 51Cr and transfused into normal recipients, were susceptible to haemolysis by primaquine with an abnormal pattern of destruction. The administration of riboflavin raised the level of erythrocyte GSSG‐R, but did not alter the level of methaemoglobin. The administration of methylene blue not only reduced the methaemoglobin to almost normal levels, but also increased the activity of GSSG‐R. During methylene blue therapy, their red cells, tagged with 51Cr and transfused into a normal recipient who was receiving methylene blue, were not susceptible to haemolysis by primaquine. Some possible reasons for the frequent association between NADH‐methaemoglobin reductase deficiency and low activity of GSSG‐R are discussed.
The dissociation of GM‐CSF efficacy from toxicity according to route of administration: a pharmacodynamic study
Authors: Cebon Jonathan , Lieschke Graham John , Bury Ross William , Morstyn George
Published: March 2012

Summary. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of bacterially synthesized granulocyte‐macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) were studied in 33 patients. GM‐CSF (0·3–30 μg/kg/d) was administered subcutaneously (s.c.) or intravenously (i.v.) by bolus or 2 h infusion for 10 d to three patients at each dose level, and serum levels measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Relationships between pharmacokinetic variables and GM‐CSF efficacy and toxicity were investigated. GM‐CSF appeared more effective s.c. than i.v. Correlations with response improved when patients with neutropenia or marrow infiltration by tumour were excluded. For the remaining patients, the correlation coefficients between the day 10 leucocyte count was highest with dose (R = 0·629, P < 0·01), the duration GM‐CSF concentrations exceeded 1 ng/ml (R = 0·524, P < 0·05) and area under the concentration‐time curve (R = 0·508, P < 0·05). There was no correlation with peak serum GM‐CSF (Cmax) (R = 0·188, P=NS). In contrast, the first dose reaction (characterized by hypoxaemia and hypotension) was associated with high Cmax (P < 0·01) and i.v. administration. Fever, liver enzyme elevation and pericarditis occurred at 10–30 μg/kg and were not influenced by route. Since the variables correlating with response differed from those correlating with these toxicities, it appears that the therapeutic index for GM‐CSF can be increased by modifying the method of administration.
Increased serum CD8 soluble antigen level is associated with blood lymphocyte abnormalities and other established indicators of a poor prognosis in adult Hodgkin's disease
Authors: Grimfors Gunnar , Andersson Birger , Tullgren Owe , Giscombe Ricardo , Holm Göran , Johansson Bo , Björkholm Magnus
Published: March 2012

Summary. Measurement of the soluble form of CD8 antigen (sCD8), a surface membrane component of suppressor/cytotoxic T cells, has yielded useful information relevant to prognosis in children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and Hodgkin's disease (HD). An ELISA technique was used to measure the amount of sCD8 in sera from 123 adults with untreated HD. Significantly higher mean sCD8 levels were found in patients with advanced disease (stage III‐IV; P < 0·001), B‐symptoms (P < 0·001), male sex (P < 0·05) and increased spontaneous and decreased Concanavalin A induced blood lymphocyte DNA‐synthesis (P < 0·05). Actuarial survival of patients with high sCD8 levels was significantly worse than that of the remainder (P < 0·05). However, the sCD8 level did not add prognostic information to that achieved by age, sex, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) or clinical stage. A significant correlation between the sCD8 and LDH levels (r = 0·33; P < 0·001) and inverse correlations between sCD8 levels and total blood CD4+ (r = −0·52; P < 0·001) and CD3+ (r = −0·39; P < 0·01) cell counts were found. Ten patients were also studied in complete remission, showing a significantly reduced sCD8 level in comparison to the pretreatment value (P < 0·05). Increased sCD8 in HD may indicate enhanced suppressor T cell activity possibly compromising the host disease balance which could explain the association with prognosis.
Cytogenetic studies of bone marrow fibroblasts cultured from patients with myelofibrosis and myeloid metaplasia
Authors: Wang Jen C. , Lang Hong‐Dao , Lichter Stephen , Weinstein Martha , Benn Peter
Published: March 2012

Summary. Cytogenetic studies of bone marrow fibroblasts and blood cells from peripheral blood or bone marrow were performed in 19 patients with myelofibrosis with myeloid metaplasia (group 1), nine patients with other myeloproliferative syndromes without myelofibrosis (group 2), and 12 patients with anaemia secondary to iron deficiency or chronic inflammatory disease (group 3). Clonal cell populations with abnormal karyotypes were seen in the bone marrow or blood in five of 14 (36%) group 1 patients, one of nine (11%) group 2 patients and none (0%) of the group 3 patients. Abnormal karyotypes of bone marrow fibroblasts were found in three of 16 (19%) of patients of group 1, and in two of nine (22%) and two of 12 (17%) patients each of groups 2 and 3, respectively. Since abnormal karyotypes can be found in bone marrow fibroblasts cultured from normal subjects, and since the abnormalities seen in the bone marrow fibroblasts differed from those found in bone marrow or blood cells, it is suggested that abnormal karyotypes found in bone marrow fibroblasts cultured from patients with primary myelofibrosis do not necessarily reflect neoplasia. The results of this study are compatible with the widely accepted hypothesis that in patients presenting with ‘primary’ myelofibrosis, the fibrosis is a secondary reactive process.
Apoptosis in Buruli ulcer: a clinicopathological study of 45 cases
Authors: Zavattaro Elisa , Boccafoschi Francesca , Borgogna Cinzia , Conca Alessandro , Johnson Roch Christian , Sopoh Ghislain Emmanuel , Dossou Ange Dodji , Colombo Enrico , Clemente Claudio , Leigheb Giorgio , Valente Guido
Published: March 2012

Zavattaro E, Boccafoschi F, Borgogna C, Conca A, Johnson R C, Sopoh G E, Dossou A D, Colombo E, Clemente C, Leigheb G & Valente G  (2012) Histopathology 61, 224–236

Apoptosis in Buruli ulcer: a clinicopathological study of 45 cases

Aims:  To investigate the presence and pathogenetic role of apoptosis in Buruli ulcer (BU), a highly destructive skin disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans.

Methods and results:  Forty‐five skin biopsies obtained from 30 Beninese patients affected by BU, in different clinical and therapeutic periods, were analysed for the main histopathological features (inflammatory infiltration, necrosis, sclerosis, oedema, granulomas and nerve damage). Immunofluorescent detection of antigens (anti‐Bax, anti‐caspases‐3 and ‐8), together with deoxyuridine, 5′‐triphosphate (dUTP) nick end labelling (TUNEL) assay, were also performed. A significant decrease in inflammatory infiltration (P = 0.0001) was detected between the beginning and end of antibiotic treatment. Neutrophils predominated in the first phase, while lymphocytes and plasma cells were increased at the end of the therapy. An inverse correlation between tissue necrosis and sclerosis was observed (P = 0.001). In 11 cases, inflammatory and regressive changes involved the nerve bundles with axonal degeneration and disruption of nerve fibres. TUNEL assay detected apoptotic bodies within nerve bundles, and these decreased from beginning to end of therapy. Bax, caspase‐3 and ‐8 were down‐regulated over the course of antibiotic therapy.

Conclusions:  In BU, apoptosis plays a role in promoting and sustaining the destructive changes and is implicated in the neural pathology that is associated with clinically detected anaesthesia.
Compassion fatigue in family caregivers: a Wilsonian concept analysis
Authors: Lynch Susan H , Lobo Marie L
Published: March 2012

lynch s.h. & lobo m.l. (2012) Compassion fatigue in family caregivers: a Wilsonian concept analysis. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(9), 2125–2134.

Aim.  An analysis of the concept of compassion fatigue in family caregivers.

Background.  The term ‘compassion fatigue’ is predominantly used with professional caregivers, such as nurses, doctors and social workers. Secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and other related terms are often cited in the literature in conjunction with compassion fatigue. Although compassion fatigue is linked to professional caregivers as a result of exposure to traumatizing events, minimal knowledge has been developed regarding its presence in family caregivers.

Data sources.  Literature published between 1980–2010 from the humanities, nursing and the social sciences, including psychology, sociology, social work, and religion, was reviewed. Data sources included dictionaries, newspapers and multiple academic databases, such as Academic Search Complete, Atla, CINAHL, PsychInfo, and PubMed.

Review methods.  Wilson’s concept analysis strategy was employed to frame the analysis of compassion fatigue, using model, contrary, related, and borderline cases to illustrate the concept’s meaning in relation to family caregivers.

Results.  Analysis revealed that the concept is predominantly used in relation to healthcare providers. Parallels are drawn between the role of healthcare providers and family caregivers. Compassion fatigue occurs when a care‐giving relationship founded on empathy potentially results in a deep psychological response to stress that progresses to physical, psychological, spiritual, and social exhaustion in the family caregiver.

Conclusion.  This concept analysis clarified the definition and revealed that the concept of compassion fatigue has potential use with family caregivers. Implications for practice and research are identified.
Diversity in prokaryotic glycosylation: an archaeal‐derived N‐linked glycan contains legionaminic acid
Authors: Kandiba Lina , Aitio Olli , Helin Jari , Guan Ziqiang , Permi Perttu , Bamford Dennis H. , Eichler Jerry , Roine Elina
Published: March 2012

VP4, the major structural protein of the haloarchaeal pleomorphic virus, HRPV‐1, is glycosylated. To define the glycan structure attached to this protein, oligosaccharides released by β‐elimination were analysed by mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Such analyses showed that the major VP4‐derived glycan is a pentasaccharide comprising glucose, glucuronic acid, mannose, sulphated glucuronic acid and a terminal 5‐N‐formyl‐legionaminic acid residue. This is the first observation of legionaminic acid, a sialic acid‐like sugar, in an archaeal‐derived glycan structure. The importance of this residue for viral infection was demonstrated upon incubation with N‐acetylneuraminic acid, a similar monosaccharide. Such treatment reduced progeny virus production by half 4 h post infection. LC‐ESI/MS analysis confirmed the presence of pentasaccharide precursors on two different VP4‐derived peptides bearing the N‐glycosylation signal, NTT. The same sites modified by the native host, Halorubrum sp. strain PV6, were also recognized by the Haloferax volcanii N‐glycosylation apparatus, as determined by LC‐ESI/MS of heterologously expressed VP4. Here, however, the N‐linked pentasaccharide was the same as shown to decorate the S‐layer glycoprotein in this species. Hence, N‐glycosylation of the haloarchaeal viral protein, VP4, is host‐specific. These results thus present additional examples of archaeal N‐glycosylation diversity and show the ability of Archaea to modify heterologously expressed proteins.
Secondary traumatic stress and associated factors among Japanese nurses working in hospitals
Authors: Komachi Miyuki H , Kamibeppu Kiyoko , Nishi Daisuke , Matsuoka Yutaka
Published: March 2012

Komachi MH, Kamibeppu K, Nishi D, Matsuoka Y. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 155–163

Secondary traumatic stress and associated factors among Japanese nurses working in hospitals

Nurses can experience secondary traumatic events while caring for patients. However, the severity of this issue is underestimated in Japan. To evaluate the prevalence and factors associated with secondary traumatic stress among general hospital nurses, we carried out a cross‐sectional study at a general hospital in August 2006. The rate of experiencing secondary trauma was 90.3% (159 of 176 nurses; 52.1% response rate). The median score of the Impact of Event Scale‐Revised was 4.0 (range, 0–56). In multiple regression analyses, variables correlated with the Impact of Event Scale included neuroticism, trauma severity and feelings of self‐reproach. It is necessary to develop support systems for nurses at risk for secondary traumatic stress.
Rituximab‐induced interstitial lung disease in a patient with immune thrombocytopenia purpura
Authors: Child N. , O'Carroll M. , Berkahn L.
Published: March 2012

We report the case of an 84‐year‐old man with refractory immune thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP) who was treated with rituximab and subsequently developed severe interstitial lung disease. There has been increasing use of rituximab in the treatment of ITP with success rates of up to 62% in adult patients with recurrent ITP. Interstitial lung disease is a rare but recognised complication of rituximab but has been rarely reported in the setting of ITP.
The determinants of leaf turgor loss point and prediction of drought tolerance of species and biomes: a global meta‐analysis
Authors: Bartlett Megan K. , Scoffoni Christine , Sack Lawren
Published: March 2012

Ecology Letters (2012) 15: 393–405

Increasing drought is one of the most critical challenges facing species and ecosystems worldwide, and improved theory and practices are needed for quantification of species tolerances. Leaf water potential at turgor loss, or wilting (πtlp), is classically recognised as a major physiological determinant of plant water stress response. However, the cellular basis of πtlp and its importance for predicting ecological drought tolerance have been controversial. A meta‐analysis of 317 species from 72 studies showed that πtlp was strongly correlated with water availability within and across biomes, indicating power for anticipating drought responses. We derived new equations giving both πtlp and relative water content at turgor loss point (RWCtlp) as explicit functions of osmotic potential at full turgor (πo) and bulk modulus of elasticity (ε). Sensitivity analyses and meta‐analyses showed that πo is the major driver of πtlp. In contrast, ε plays no direct role in driving drought tolerance within or across species, but sclerophylly and elastic adjustments act to maintain RWCtlp, preventing cell dehydration, and additionally protect against nutrient, mechanical and herbivory stresses independent of drought tolerance. These findings clarify biogeographic trends and the underlying basis of drought tolerance parameters with applications in comparative assessments of species and ecosystems worldwide.
Electrophysiological studies in American Quarter horses with neuroaxonal dystrophy
Authors: Finno Carrie J. , Aleman Monica , Ofri Ron , Hollingsworth Steven R. , Madigan John E. , Winfield Laramie , Bannasch Danika L.
Published: March 2012

Objective: Neuroaxonal dystrophy (NAD) is a disease characterized by the sudden onset of neurologic signs in horses ranging from 4 to 36 months of age. Equine degenerative myeloencephalopathy (EDM), a disease that has been associated with low vitamin E concentrations, is considered a more advanced form of NAD. The objective of this report is to describe the electrophysiological features of NAD/EDM in American Quarter horses (QHs).

Horses: Six NAD/EDM‐affected QHs and six unaffected QHs were evaluated by ophthalmic examination and electroretinography. Five of the NAD/EDM‐affected QH and five unaffected QHs were also evaluated by electroencephalography (EEG).

Results: Ophthalmic examination, ERGs, and EEGs were unremarkable in NAD/EDM cases.

Conclusions: Neuroaxonal dystrophy/EDM does not appear to cause clinical signs of ocular disease or functional ERG/EEG deficits in QHs.
Scedosporium apiospermumkeratomycosis in a dog
Authors: Newton Emma J. W.
Published: March 2012

A 6‐year‐old male castrated Norfolk Terrier dog was examined following a 21‐day history of an increasingly painful eye. Examination revealed marked blepharospasm and purulent ocular discharge associated with an ulcerative keratitis. There was panstromal corneal opacity with raised gray to white lesions. Corneal cytology demonstrated branching septate fungal hyphae identified by polymerase chain reaction asScedosporium apiospermum. Treatment with topical 1% voriconazole solution was successful in resolving the keratomycosis.
Contemporary trends of in‐hospital complications and mortality for radical cystectomy
Authors: Kim Simon P. , Boorjian Stephen A. , Shah Nilay D. , Karnes R. Jeffrey , Weight Christopher J. , Moriarty James P. , Tollefson Matthew K. , Shippee Nathan D. , Frank Igor
Published: March 2012

Study Type – Therapy (trend analysis)

Level of Evidence 2b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Radical cystectomy (RC) carries significant risks of morbidity and mortality. Little is known whether in‐hospital outcomes are improving for RC.

Using a contemporary population‐based cohort, the present study suggests minimal improvement in postoperative complications and mortality overall or by hospital‐volume category from 2001 to 2008. About 29% and 2% of patients undergoing RC will experience a postoperative complication or die during hospitalisation, respectively.

OBJECTIVE

To characterise the contemporary trends of in‐hospital complications and mortality for radical cystectomy (RC) from a contemporary population‐based cohort, as patients undergoing RC for bladder cancer are at significant risk for complications and mortality and the degree to which in‐hospital outcomes have changed over time is unknown.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We identified 50 625 individuals who underwent RC for bladder cancer between 2001 and 2008 from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample.

Multivariable regression models were used to identify hospital and patient covariates associated with in‐hospital complications and mortality and to estimate predicted probabilities of each outcome.

Temporal trends of in‐hospital mortality and complications were assessed by Wilcoxon rank‐sum test.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients with in‐hospital complications remained stable at 28.3% in 2001–2002 compared with 28.0% in 2007–2008 (P= 0.81 for trend).

In‐hospital mortality was also unchanged from 2.4% in 2001–2002 compared with 2.3% in 2007–2008 (P= 0.87 for trend).

While high‐volume hospitals were associated with lower odds of in‐hospital complications (odds ratio [OR] 0.77, P= 0.01) and mortality (OR 0.60, P= 0.02) compared with low‐volume hospitals, the predicted probabilities of in‐hospital complications or mortality were unchanged within each volume category between 2001 and 2008.

CONCLUSIONS

In‐hospital complications and mortality for RC remain unchanged from 2001 to 2008.

While high‐volume hospitals continue to have better outcomes, there is little evidence that postoperative mortality and morbidity are improving among low‐, medium‐ and high‐volume hospitals.

Increased attention is needed to identify the modifiable aspects of postoperative care to improve in‐hospital outcomes and safety for patients undergoing RC.
International networking: connecting midwives through social media
Authors: Stewart S. , Sidebotham M. , Davis D.
Published: March 2012

STEWART S., SIDEBOTHAM M. & DAVIS D. (2012) International networking: connecting midwives through social media. International Nursing Review59, 431–434

Purpose:  This article reports on the ‘Virtual International Day of the Midwife E‐vent’, an innovative initiative that uses social media to provide opportunities for learning and networking internationally.

Background:  This e‐vent was conceived of and initiated in 2009 by a small group of midwives with an interest in social media. The e‐vent uses web conferencing software and schedules a presentation every hour for a 24‐h period so as to reach midwives or other interested parties in all time zones of the globe.

Methods:  The authors draw on their experiences to describe the e‐vent including the e‐vent aims and organizing processes, and to report on participation trends over the 3‐year period.

Findings:  The e‐vent has seen significant growth over a 3‐year period with participation increasing from an average of five participants per session to 50. The organizing committee has expanded to include an international team and they have extended the reach of the project by establishing a Facebook page.

Conclusions:  While the use of social media has its limitations, projects such as the International Day of the Midwife E‐vent have real potential to increase access to educational materials and provide opportunities for international networking.
Rethinking Primitive Accumulation: Theoretical Tensions and Rural Southeast Asian Complexities
Authors: Hall Derek
Published: March 2012

Abstract:  This paper poses theoretical and empirical questions to the resurgent litera‐ture on primitive accumulation in critical political economy. The first section outlines the different understandings of capitalism, and of its relationship to primitive accumulation, in the literature, and argues that they complicate efforts to identify instances of primitive accumulation. The second section examines the history of frontier agricultural expansion in Southeast Asia to critique the literature's assumptions about who carries out, and who resists, primitive accumulation. The third section draws on work on Southeast Asian political economy to show that the literature pays insufficient attention to the institutions that govern capitalist social relations. The paper argues that these questions of agency, governance, and the nature of capitalism need to be answered in order to make effective use of the concept of primitive accumulation and to distinguish it from cognate concepts like enclosure and commodification.
Kosovo – Winning its Independence but Losing its People? Recent Evidence on Emigration Intentions and Preparedness to Migrate
Authors: Ivlevs Artjoms , King Roswitha M.
Published: March 2012

Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia in February 2008, but substantial proportions of its population are expressing their lack of confidence by preparing to emigrate. In this paper, we present evidence from a customized post‐independence survey (1,367 face‐to face interviews) on emigration intentions in Kosovo, carried out in June 2008. Thirty per cent of the respondents from the Albanian‐speaking majority have taken concrete steps to move abroad, and emigration intentions have again risen to their pre‐independence peak. Strikingly, it is the better educated and those with higher incomes that are more likely to exit. Ethnic Serbs (the largest minority group) are less likely to emigrate than Kosovo’s ethnic majority.
Consumer involvement and marketing in Africa: some directions for future research
Authors: Gbadamosi Ayantunji
Published: March 2012

Despite an ongoing debate, authors agree that factors that determine consumers' involvement in any goal object are the characteristics of the object, the characteristics of the customer involved and the situational context of the decision. With this as the theoretical background, this paper advocates the need to study African‐specific contextual factors to gain a thorough understanding of consumer involvement and successful marketing practice in this society. An extensive review of the extant literature was done to provide a relevant framework for exploring consumer involvement and African‐related issues. The paper concludes that existing postulations on the subject matter could not robustly capture consumer involvement in Africa due to pertinent influences of cultural values and mores that do not apply elsewhere in the world. Hence, empirical studies to gauge the context‐specific application of the subject in relation to Africa are suggested as imperative. This paper advocates a society‐oriented consciousness for marketing activities in relation to consumer involvement with specific reference to Africa. Therefore, it cautions against undue generalization about the existing postulations on the subject, and provides directions for future research towards updating the literature.
Consumer reactions to the availability of organic food in discount supermarkets
Authors: Gottschalk Ingrid , Leistner Tabea
Published: March 2012

The market for organic food products in industrial countries has changed significantly. Conventional grocery stores have entered this market in recent years and now present an alternative point of purchase to farmers’ markets and specialized health food shops. In Germany, the main newcomers in this field are the discount supermarkets. The question is whether the increased supply of organic food products leads to sustained effects on consumer behaviour. In other words, can a first‐time purchase of organic products at a discounter act as an ‘icebreaker’ and induce further purchases? This question is addressed here. A consumer survey (n = 231) indicates that an initial purchase of organic food in a discount store is indeed very likely to lead to follow‐up purchases. The link shown is statistically significant. Furthermore, customers are very interested in the availability of locally grown products, reliable information and easy comparison with non‐organic products. Important recommendations concerning organic product range, display and information, especially for retailers, can be deducted.
The Impairing Effect of Acute Ethanol on Spreading Depression is Antagonized by Astaxanthin in Rats of 2 Young‐Adult Ages
Authors: Abadie‐Guedes Ricardo , Guedes Rubem C. A. , Bezerra Ranilson S.
Published: March 2012

Background

Ethanol (EtOH) abuse and insufficient ingestion of antioxidants are external factors that can alter brain electrophysiology. Our previous studies have demonstrated that the excitability‐related brain electrophysiological phenomenon known as cortical spreading depression (CSD) was facilitated by chronic EtOH intake, and chronic treatment with carotenoids attenuated this effect. Here, we investigated the acute effect of a single EtOH administration on CSD in young and adult rats previously (1 hour) treated with 10 μg/kg of astaxanthin.

Methods

Male Wistar rats (5 young‐ and 5 adult groups, 60 to 80 and 150 to 180 days of age, respectively) were treated by 2 gavage procedures at 1‐hour interval as follows: groups 1 and 2 received astaxanthin in gavage I combined with EtOH (group 1) or water (group 2) in gavage II; groups 3 and 4 received olive oil (the vehicle in which astaxanthin was dissolved) in gavage I combined with EtOH (group 3) or water (group 4) in gavage II; group 5 received water in gavage I combined with EtOH in gavage II. CSD was recorded on the cortical surface for 4 hours.

Results

Compared to the respective water and oil controls (groups 2 and 4; CSD velocities: 3.73 ± 0.09 and 3.78 ± 0.07 mm/min in the young groups; 2.99 ± 0.10 and 3.05 ± 0.19 mm/min in the adult groups), a single dose of EtOH (groups 3 and 5) decreased CSD propagation velocities (3.29 ± 0.23 and 3.16 ± 0.10 mm/min in the young groups; 2.71 ± 0.27 and 2.75 ± 0.31 mm/min in the adult groups). Astaxanthin antagonized the impairing effect of acute EtOH on CSD (group 1; mean velocity: 3.70 ± 0.19 and 3.13 ± 0.16 mm/min for the young and adult groups, respectively).

Conclusions

The results showed an antagonistic effect of acute EtOH treatment on CSD propagation that was reverted by astaxanthin. The EtOH–astaxanthin interaction was not influenced by the age, as it was found in both young and adult animals.
Crocodile Oil Enhances Cutaneous Burn Wound Healing and Reduces Scar Formation in Rats
Authors: Li Hua‐Liang , Chen Li‐Ping , Hu Yong‐Hua , Qin Yan , Liang Ge , Xiong You‐Xiong , Chen Qing‐Xi
Published: March 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:265–273 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  This study was performed to evaluate the burn wound–healing efficacy of crocodile oil from Crocodylus siamensis by employing deep second‐degree burns in a Wistar rat model.

Methods:  Twenty‐four rats were assigned equally into four groups using a random‐number table, and two burns were created on the dorsum of each animal except for the sham group. The three treatment groups received with saline solution (12 burns, served as negative control), silver sulfadiazine (12 burns, served as positive control), or crocodile oil (12 burns). Silver sulfadiazine cream was used as standard care, and the treatments were repeated twice daily for 28 days. After day 28 the animals were euthanized and the wounds were removed for quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, histologic, and immunohistochemical study.

Results:  Crocodile oil accelerated the wound‐healing process as indicated by a significant decrease in wound closure time in comparison to the burn control and silver sulfadiazine treatment groups. Histologic results showed well‐organized and distributed skin structure and collagen deposition in the animals treated with crocodile oil. Transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1), a key cytokine promoting scarring, was also observed to play a role in the burn wound healing. Immunohistochemical staining results showed the negative expression of TGF‐β1 and Smad3 in the 28‐days‐postburn skin of crocodile oil group versus positive in the epidermis of burn controls. Compared to the burn control group, expressions of TGF‐β1 and Smad3 mRNA decreased significantly (p < 0.01) in the 28‐days‐postburn skin of the crocodile oil group.

Conclusions:  Our results showed that crocodile oil could enhance cutaneous burn wound healing and reduce scar formation in rats, which might be related to TGF‐β1/Smad3 signaling.
Twin births: cesarean section or vaginal delivery?
Authors: HOFFMANN ELISE , OLDENBURG ANNA , RODE LINE , TABOR ANN , RASMUSSEN STEEN , SKIBSTED LILLIAN
Published: March 2012

Objective. To assess morbidity and mortality in twin pregnancy deliveries, according to chorionicity and mode of delivery. Design. Population‐based retrospective cohort. Setting. Fourteen obstetric departments in Denmark. Population. One thousand one hundred and seventy‐five twin pregnancies with two live fetuses at 36+0 weeks of gestation. Methods. Pregnancy outcomes assessed according to chorionicity and mode of delivery. Main outcome measures. Poor outcome defined as five min Apgar score ≤ 7, umbilical artery pH < 7.10, admission to neonatal unit for more than three days or death. Results. Dichorionic (DC) twins, delivered after 36 gestational weeks, with intended vaginal delivery (n= 689) compared with DC twins with planned cesarean section (n= 371) had an increased risk of poor outcome [odds ratio (OR) 1.47, p= 0.037] after adjustment for body mass index, parity and weight discordance. There was no increased risk for poor outcome in monochorionic (MC) twins with intended vaginal delivery (n= 63) compared with planned cesarean section (n= 52; OR 0.87, 95% confidence interval 0.26–2.96). Nulliparity increased the risk of poor outcome in DC (OR 1.5, p= 0.03) and in MC twins (OR 4.01, p= 0.02), as well as birthweight discordance >300 g (DC, OR 1.50, p= 0.02; and MC, OR 6.02, p= 0.002). For DC twins, we found a significantly higher risk of poor outcome of the second‐born twin compared with the first (OR 1.64, p= 0.001). Conclusions. Dichorionic twins born after 36 weeks of gestation had a higher risk of poor outcome by intended vaginal delivery than by planned cesarean section. For MC twins, statistical differences in outcome by mode of delivery could not be seen.
The role of the skin irritation response in polysensitization to fragrances
Authors: Nagtegaal Mariette J. C. , Pentinga Stefanie E. , Kuik Joop , Kezic Sanja , Rustemeyer Thomas
Published: March 2012

Background. Contact allergy to fragrance chemicals is an increasing problem. Polysensitization is likely to be a phenotype of increased susceptibility to contact allergy. The factors that play a role in polysensitization are largely unknown. Identifying these risk factors is important with regard to future studies on the aetiology of contact allergy.

Objectives. To investigate whether enhanced skin irritability is a risk factor for the development of polysensitization to fragrance chemicals.

Methods. One hundred participants characterized by fragrance contact allergy were included in our study. The participants were patch tested on the back with 25 individual fragrance chemicals and fragrance mixes I and II, and on the upper arm with sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) (consisting of SLS concentrations of 0.45%, 0.67%, 1%, and 1.5%). Reading of both tests was performed during the following visits at days 2, 3, and 7. The response to SLS was monitored by measuring transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Polysensitization was defined as three or more allergic reactions to non‐cross‐reacting fragrance chemical allergens.

Results. Individuals with polysensitization showed significantly higher irritation responses to SLS 1% and 1.5% as assessed by TEWL.

Conclusions. We found an enhanced skin irritation response to be a risk factor for the development of polysensitization to fragrance chemicals.
A rare case of primary cutaneous plasmacytoma‐like lymphoproliferative disorder following renal transplantation
Authors: Molina‐Ruiz Ana M. , Pulpillo Águeda , Lasanta Begoña , Zulueta Teresa , Andrades Rocío , Requena Luis
Published: March 2012

Post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a lymphoid proliferation that develops as a complication of solid organ or bone marrow transplants. PTLD limited to the skin is very rare. Plasmacytoma‐like PTLD is an uncommon variant of monomorphic PTLD. Its presentation in the skin is extraordinary with very few cases reported in the literature. We report a new case of plasmacytoma‐like PTLD presenting as multiple skin nodules on the leg of a 74‐year‐old kidney transplant recipient. Histopathologic and immunohistochemical examination of one nodule revealed atypical plasmacytoid and plasmablastic cells that showed kappa light chain restriction and stained positive for CD138. Staging investigations excluded extracutaneous manifestations of the disease. This case is unusual for several reasons including involvement limited to the skin, plasmacytoid phenotype of the tumor, presentation 18 years following transplantation and Epstein–Barr virus negativity.

Molina‐Ruiz AM, Pulpillo A, Lasanta B, Zulueta T, Andrades R, Requena L. A rare case of primary cutaneous plasmacytoma‐like lymphoproliferative disorder following renal transplantation.
NF‐κB subunit specificity in hemopoiesis
Authors: Gerondakis Steve , Banerjee Ashish , Grigoriadis George , Vasanthakumar Ajithkumar , Gugasyan Raffi , Sidwell Tom , Grumont Raelene J
Published: March 2012

Summary:  Although the diverse functions served by the nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) pathway in virtually all cell types are typically employed to deal with stress responses, NF‐κB transcription factors also play key roles in the development of hemopoietic cells. This review focuses on how NF‐κB transcription factors control various aspects of thymic T‐cell and myeloid cell differentiation that include its roles in hemopoietic precursors, conventional αβ T cells, CD4+ regulatory T cells, natural killer T cells, γδ T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells.
Dimer‐specific regulatory mechanisms within the NF‐κB family of transcription factors
Authors: Smale Stephen T.
Published: March 2012

Summary:  A fundamental feature of the transcriptional response to an nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB)‐inducing stimulus is that the response is highly selective and limited to the activation of only a subset of potential NF‐κB target genes. One major contributor to selectivity of the response is likely to be the capacity of different NF‐κB dimers to regulate different sets of target genes. The NF‐κB family of transcription factors consists of five proteins, RelA, c‐Rel, RelB, p50, and p52, which assemble into several homodimeric and heterodimeric species. Studies of mutant mouse strains have revealed that each family member, and perhaps each dimer, carries out unique functions in regulating transcription in cells of the immune system and in many other cell types. Dimer‐specific functions can be conferred by selective protein–protein interactions with other transcription factors, coregulatory proteins, and chromatin proteins. Unique DNA‐binding specificities and affinities make additional contributions to selectivity of the response, with growing evidence that some NF‐κB dimers can adopt different conformations and thereby function differently when bound to different DNA sequences. Despite significant advances, our knowledge remains limited and many years of additional work will be needed to fully understand how the dimer‐specific functions of NF‐κB contribute to transcriptional selectivity.
Regulation of NF‐κB by the CARD proteins
Authors: Jiang Changying , Lin Xin
Published: March 2012

Summary:  Scaffold proteins play pivotal roles in the regulation of signal transduction pathways by connecting upstream receptors to downstream effector molecules. During the last decade, many scaffold proteins that contain caspase‐recruitment domains (CARD) have been identified. Investigating the roles of CARD proteins has revealed that many of them play crucial roles in signaling cascades leading to activation of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB). In this review, we discuss the contributions of CARD proteins to NF‐κB activation in various signaling cascades. In particular, we share some of our personal experiences during the initial investigation of the functions of the CARMA family of CARD proteins and then summarize the roles of these proteins in signaling pathways induced by antigen receptors, G protein‐coupled receptors, receptor tyrosine kinase, and C‐type lectin receptors in the context of recent progress in these field.
Integration Technologies for Silicon Carbide‐Based Ceramics for Micro‐Electro‐Mechanical Systems‐Lean Direct Injector Fuel Injector Applications
Authors: Halbig Michael C. , Singh Mrityunjay , Tsuda Hiroshi
Published: March 2012

Advanced joining approaches are critically needed for the fabrication and integration of silicon carbide‐based micro‐electro‐mechanical systems lean direct fuel injectors for jet engines. Diffusion bonding of silicon carbide with titanium interlayers offers advantages such as uniform application/surface coverage and no flow of the interlayer or the reaction formed phases during joint processing. The resulting joints were uniform, stable, leak free, and had high strength. Titanium interlayers with 10 and 20 μm thicknesses were obtained from physical vapor deposition (PVD) and pure metallic foils. The effects of the interlayer type and thickness and processing time on the resultant microstructures were investigated. The joints and their reaction‐formed phases were analyzed with electron microprobe analysis and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy‐dispersive spectroscopy, ultrasonic immersion nondestructive evaluation method, and transmission electron microscopy. For the physical vapor deposition Ti interlayers, the 10 μm coating gave the best results yielding a joint that did not have intermediate phases or microcracking. For the Ti foil interlayers, the joint processed with a 4 h‐hold time had more stable phases and less microcracking than those with 1 and 2 h‐hold times. The average tensile strength of the diffusion bonds was 14.2 MPa which was 2–3 times higher than the application requirements. The diffusion bonding approach was shown to meet the requirements for SiC‐based fuel injector fabrication.
Not Just “Another Woman”: Femicide and Representation in Guatemala
Authors: Godoy‐Paiz Paula
Published: March 2012

Resúmen

Este artículo analiza el fenómeno social del feminicidio, el asesinato de mujeres por su género, el cual ha crecido en Guatemala en los años siguientes al fin de la guerra. Basado en mi investigación etnográfica de un año en Guatemala, analizo las diferentes perspectivas que discuten el tema, tales como la académica, la oficial del gobierno, la del los medios de comunicación, y la de las organizaciones no gubernamentales. Además, contrasto los discursos “oficiales” sobre el feminicidio con las experiencias de una familia que actualmente sufre las consecuencias de la pérdida de un familiar, lo cual desenmascara las brechas entre las respuestas institucionales a la violencia y la vida diaria de los guatemaltecos. Finalmente, argumento que para entender mejor la profundidad y las consecuencias de largo plazo de la violencia feminicida, es necesario enfocar la discusión en las voces y experiencias de las mujeres, así como en las redes sociales.
Reliability of high‐ and low‐field magnetic resonance imaging systems for detection of cartilage and bone lesions in the equine cadaver fetlock
Authors: Smith M. A. , Dyson S. J. , Murray R. C.
Published: March 2012

Reasons for performing study:To determine the reliability of 2 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems for detection of cartilage and bone lesions of the equine fetlock.

Objectives:To test the hypotheses that lesions in cartilage, subchondral and trabecular bone of the equine fetlock verified using histopathology can be detected on high‐ and low‐field MR images with a low incidence of false positive or negative results; that low‐field images are less reliable than high‐field images for detection of cartilage lesions; and that combining results of interpretation from different pulse sequences increases detection of cartilage lesions.

Methods:High‐ and low‐field MRI was performed on 19 limbs from horses identified with fetlock lameness prior to euthanasia. Grading systems were used to score cartilage, subchondral and trabecular bone on MR images and histopathology. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for images.

Results:High‐field T2*‐weighted gradient echo (T2*W‐GRE) and low‐field T2‐weighted fast spin echo (T2W‐FSE) images had high sensitivity but low specificity for detection of cartilage lesions. All pulse sequences had high sensitivity and low–moderate specificity for detection of subchondral bone lesions and moderate sensitivity and moderate–high specificity for detection of trabecular bone lesions (histopathology as gold standard). For detection of lesions of trabecular bone low‐field T2*W‐GRE images had higher sensitivity and specificity than T2W‐FSE images.

Conclusions:There is high likelihood of false positive results using high‐ or low‐field MRI for detection of cartilage lesions and moderate–high likelihood of false positive results for detection of subchondral bone lesions compared with histopathology. Combining results of interpretation from different pulse sequences did not increase detection of cartilage lesions. MRI interpretation of trabecular bone was more reliable than cartilage or subchondral bone in both MR systems.

Potential relevance:Independent interpretation of a variety of pulse sequences may maximise detection of cartilage and bone lesions in the fetlock. Clinicians should be aware of potential false positive and negative results.
Nephroprotective efficacy of chrysin against cisplatin-induced toxicity via attenuation of oxidative stress
Authors: Sultana Sarwat , Verma Kriti , Khan Rehan
Published: March 2012

Objectives

Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity is the main cause for its dose-limited use in the treatment of various cancers and results in acute renal cell injury through generation of reactive oxygen species. Chrysin possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective efficacy of chrysin against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

Methods

Thirty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups with six rats in each group. Group I served as control and received corn oil (vehicle of chrysin) for 14 days and 0.9% saline (vehicle of cisplatin) on day 14 only. Group II received a single intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin on day 14. Group III and IV were pretreated with two different doses of chrysin in addition to cisplatin and group V received chrysin only. Rats were examined for the effect of chrysin on cisplatin induced depletion of antioxidant enzymes, induction of lipid peroxidation and DNA damage in the kidney, utilizing a well-established model of cisplatin-induced nephropathy.

Key findings

Pretreatment with chrysin significantly attenuated cisplatin-induced renal oxidative damage by diminishing the DNA damage and toxicity markers, such as creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, lipid peroxidation and xanthine oxidase activity, accompanied by increase in enzymatic (catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and glutathione-S-transferase) and non-enzymatic (reduced glutathione) antioxidant status. Histological findings further substantiated the protective efficacy of chrysin, which reduced cisplatin-induced renal damage.

Conclusions

The data of the present study suggest that chrysin effectively suppress cisplatin-induced renal injury by ameliorating oxidative stress.
Therapeutic properties of quercetin on monosodium urate crystal-induced inflammation in rat
Authors: Huang Jingqun , Zhu Miaozhang , Tao Ye , Wang Siwang , Chen Jianzong , Sun Wenjuan , Li Shuye
Published: March 2012

Objectives

Gouty arthritis is characterized by intense, acute inflammatory reactions that occur in response to articular deposits of monosodium urate crystals. In this study we have assessed the effects of the flavonoid, quercetin, on monosodium urate crystal-induced inflammation in rats, an experimental model for gouty arthritis.

Methods

Gouty arthritis was induced by intra-articular injection of monosodium urate crystal suspension inside the ankle joint of the rat right hind limb. Circumference was assessed at 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 h after monosodium urate crystal injection. Histopathological analysis of joint synovial tissue, inflammatory mediator levels, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant status in serum, liver and joint synovial tissue were determined in control and monosodium urate crystal-treated rats at the end of experiment.

Key findings

Quercetin treatment attenuated oedema in a dose-dependent manner and decreased histological signs of acute inflammation in the treated animals. In addition, quercetin treatment suppressed leucocyte recruitment, decreased chemokine levels, decreased levels of the lipid peroxidation end-product malondialdehyde, and increased antioxidant enzyme activity in treated rats.

Conclusions

These results indicated that quercetin exerted a strong anti-inflammatory effect that may be useful for the treatment of acute gouty arthritis.