bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Model‐driven rapid prototyping with Umple
Authors: Forward Andrew , Badreddin Omar , Lethbridge Timothy C. , Solano Julian
Published: December 2011

The emergence of model‐driven software development brings new opportunities and challenges for rapid prototyping. On the one hand, the modeling process is inherently abstract, removing the prototyper from details, and letting him or her focus on exploring design alternatives for various aspects of the system. On the other hand, the most popular modeling languages and tools entirely omit the modeling and generating of user interfaces. As a result, the benefit of user interface prototypes as a medium for interaction with the user and customer is lost. This paper presents a model‐oriented technology called Umple that can be used for prototyping and also supporting model driven engineering. Umple allows end users to quickly create class and state machine models and to incrementally embed implementation artifacts. At any point in the modeling process, users can quickly generate a fully functional prototype that exposes modeling implications on the user interface, and allows stakeholders to get a feel of how the full system will behave. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermal Stability of Fibroblast Growth Factor Protein Is a Determinant Factor in Regulating Self-Renewal, Differentiation, and Reprogramming in Human Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Chen Guokai , Gulbranson Daniel R. , Yu Pengzhi , Hou Zhonggang , Thomson James A.
Published: December 2011

Fibroblast growth factor (FGF), transforming growth factor (TGF)/Nodal, and Insulin/insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling pathways are sufficient to maintain human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells in a proliferative, undifferentiated state. Here, we show that only a few FGF family members (FGF2, FGF4, FGF6, and FGF9) are able to sustain strong extracellular-signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation and NANOG expression levels in human ESCs. Surprisingly, FGF1, which is reported to target the same set of receptors as FGF2, fails to sustain ERK phosphorylation and NANOG expression under standard culture conditions. We find that the failure of FGF1 to sustain ES is due to thermal instability of the wild-type protein, not receptor specificity, and that a mutated thermal-stable FGF1 sustains human ESCs and supports both differentiation and reprogramming protocols.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Reliable information rate of signal‐time coding for half‐duplex additive white Gaussian noise relay networks
Authors: Xiong Ke , Fan Pingyi , Qiu Zhengding , Letaief Khaled Ben
Published: December 2011

Signal‐time coding (STC) is a newly proposed transmission scheme for half‐duplex relay networks, which is able to achieve higher information flow rate by combining the traditional encoding/modulation mode in the signal domain with the signal pulse phase modulation in the time domain. However, most of the results for STC are only obtained under the ideal assumptions that the signal detections at physical layer are perfect and there are still a lot of fundamental problems to be explored. This paper considers the implementing issues of STC at physical layer in additive white Gaussian noise relay networks. Firstly, a performance evaluation criterion, the reliable information per symbol (RIPS), is proposed to characterize the performance of STC in noisy wireless networks. Secondly, a new construction scheme based on route ID for the codeword of STC is presented, and some structural properties of the codeword of STC are investigated. Thirdly, the error probabilities of STC in both the signal domain and the time domain are discussed. Furthermore, two implementing schemes, that is, the energy detection based STC (ED‐STC) and the symbol detection based STC (SD‐STC), are proposed, and their performance bounds in terms of RIPS are discussed. Numerical analyses show that both ED‐STC and SD‐STC outperform traditional transmission methods in terms of effective information rate even under some practical conditions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Breast Radiation Correlates with Side of Parathyroid Adenoma
Authors: Woll Monica L. , Mazeh Haggi , Anderson Bethany M. , Chen Herbert , Sippel Rebecca S.
Published: December 2011

Background

Prior head and neck irradiation is a known risk factor for hyperparathyroidism. It is not clear whether irradiation for breast cancer, which may expose the neck to radiation, is also a risk factor for hyperparathyroidism. The present study analyzes the association between the side of radiation to the chest following breast surgery and the side of subsequent parathyroid adenoma development.

Methods

We analyzed a prospective database of 1,428 consecutive patients who underwent parathyroidectomy at our institution between November 2000 and August 2010. Patients who had previously undergone breast surgery were identified. Patients with multigland disease were excluded. Patients with bilateral breast surgery were counted as having had two separate procedures; one on each side. Patients who had radiation therapy following breast surgery (RadRx) were compared to those who had breast surgery without radiation treatment (No RadRx).

Results

A total of 146 breast procedures were performed in 121 patients. Forty procedures were in the RadRx group versus 106 cases in the No RadRx group. Patients with radiation therapy were older (68 ± 1.8 years versus 63 ± 1.2 years; P = 0.02) and had higher preoperative calcium levels (11.3 ± 0.1 mg/dl versus 10.9 ± 0.1 mg/dl; P = 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in either parathyroid hormone (PTH) level or gland weight. The latency period between breast irradiation and parathyroid surgery was 8 ± 0.9 years. Interestingly, the side of radiation therapy was associated with the side of the parathyroid adenoma in 76% of cases, compared to only 44% in those who had breast surgery without radiation exposure (P = 0.0004).

Conclusions

The present study demonstrates that, similar to prior head and neck radiation, prior breast irradiation correlates with the development of parathyroid disease. Specifically, there is a strong correlation between the side of the radiation therapy and the side of a subsequent parathyroid adenoma. Breast irradiation should therefore be considered a risk factor for the development of parathyroid adenomas.
Educational Needs of Primary Care Physicians Regarding Direct‐to‐Consumer Genetic Testing
Authors: Powell Karen P. , Christianson Carol A. , Cogswell Whitney A. , Dave Gaurav , Verma Amit , Eubanks Sonja , Henrich Vincent C.
Published: December 2011

To assess the educational needs of North Carolina primary care physicians (PCPs) about direct‐to‐consumer (DTC) genetic testing, surveys were mailed to 2,402 family and internal medicine providers in North Carolina. Out of 382 respondents, 323 (85%) felt unprepared to answer patient questions and 282 (74%) reported wanting to learn about DTC genetic testing. A total of 148 (39%) were aware of DTC genetic testing. Among these, 63 (43%) thought DTC genetic testing was clinically useful. PCPs who felt either unprepared to answer patient questions (OR = 0.354, p = 0.01) or that DTC genetic testing was clinically useful (OR = 5.783, p = 0.00) were more likely to want to learn about DTC genetic testing. PCPs are interested in learning about DTC genetic testing, but are mostly unaware of DTC testing and feel unprepared to help patients with DTC testing results. Familiar and trusted channels that provide the information and tools PCPs need to help answer patient's questions and manage their care should be used when creating educational programs.
A Blinded Placebo-Controlled Randomized Trial on the Use of Astaxanthin as an Adjunct to Splinting in the Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: MacDermid Joy C. , Vincent Joshua I. , Gan Bing S. , Grewal Ruby
Published: December 2011

Background

Nutritional supplementation is a potential adjunct in the conservative management of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). This study investigated whether astaxanthin (a beta-carotenoid) increased the effectiveness of splinting in managing CTS.

Methods

This is a triple-blinded randomized controlled trial where 63 patients with electrodiagnostically confirmed CTS were randomly allocated into either the experimental group ( n=32) (astaxanthin-4-mg capsules+splinting) or the control group ( n=31) (placebo+splinting). Medications were taken for 9 weeks followed by a 3-week washout. The primary outcome measure was the Symptom Severity Scale (SSS). Secondary outcome measures in the study included physical impairments, disability, and health status measures. Electrodiagnostic testing was performed before entry into the study and again at 12 weeks. All other outcomes were measured at baseline, 6, and 12 weeks.

Results

There was a reduction in symptoms as measured by the SSS over the course of treatment in both groups ( p= 0.002), but no differences between the groups ( p=0.18). The Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire and the Short Form 36-item Health Survey showed no effects over time or between treatment groups. The baseline difference between the groups in the level of total cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins remained constant over the course of the study. Impairment measures demonstrated no significant changes in grip, dexterity, or sensation.

Conclusion

At present, the role for astaxanthin as an adjunct in conservative management of CTS has not been established.
Importance of the upper‐level warm core in the rapid intensification of a tropical cyclone
Authors: Zhang Da‐Lin , Chen Hua
Published: December 2011

In this study, the rapid intensification (RI) of tropical cyclone is examined using a 72‐h cloud‐permitting prediction of Hurricane Wilma (2005) with a record‐breaking intensity of 882 hPa. Results show the formation of an upper‐level warm core from the descending air of stratospheric origin in the eye, which coincides with the onset of RI; it reaches the peak amplitude of more than 18°C from its initial conditions at the time of peak intensity. The descending air is associated with the detrainment of convective bursts in the eyewall, and it appears as (perturbation) cyclonic radial inflows above the upper outflow layer and causes the subsidence warming below. We hypothesize that the upper divergent outflow layer favors the generation of a warm core by protecting it from ventilation by environmental flows. Use of the hydrostatic equation shows that the warm core of stratospheric origin contributes more than twice as much as the lower‐level warm column to the pressure change at the peak intensity of Wilma. Results suggest that more attention be paid to the magnitude of storm‐relative flows and vertical wind shear in the upper troposphere, rather than just vertical shear in the typical 850–200 hPa layer, in order to reasonably predict the RI of tropical cyclones.
The southward transport of sub‐mesoscale lenses of Bass Strait Water in the centre of anti‐cyclonic mesoscale eddies
Authors: Baird Mark E. , Ridgway Ken R.
Published: December 2011

Dense shelf water from Bass Strait, southeast Australia, is presently understood to travel northward along the continental shelf, and disperse eastward into the Tasman Sea. Here we report the unexpected discovery by autonomous gliders of lenses of shelf water ∼40 km in diameter and 200–300 m tall at depth in the center of three ∼200 km diameter anti‐cyclonic eddies. Reanalysis of 2420 vertical profiles off the continental slope in the western Tasman Sea since 1982 found only 3 distinct patches of Bass Strait Water (BSW), all with positive dynamic height anomalies indicative of anti‐cyclones. Through a yet to be understood process, BSW separates from the continental slope and forms a mid‐depth lens that aligns vertically with the larger anti‐cyclonic mesoscale eddy; and remains at the center of the eddy for 6+ months as it is advected 700 km southward. This pathway subducts shelf water into the ocean interior, and provides a link between mesoscale circulation and shelf water transport. The BSW that is captured in anti‐cyclones advects south past the east coast of Tasmania, with some moving into the eastern Indian Ocean.
A simple differential diffusion model to account for the discrepancy between 223Ra‐ and 224Ra‐based eddy diffusivities
Authors: Stachelhaus Scott L. , Moran S. Bradley
Published: December 2011

A series of 223Ra (t1/2 = 11.4 d) and 224Ra (t1/2 = 3.66 d) measurements made in the Mid‐Atlantic Bight yield eddy diffusivity (K) estimates of 1.2 ± 0.3 × 102 m2 s−1 and 1.4 ± 0.2 × 102 m2 s−1, respectively. These results fall in line with previous studies from multiple locations throughout the ocean, in which 224Ra‐based eddy diffusivities invariably exceed those determined using 223Ra. Such a pattern conflicts with the Fickian model for eddy diffusivity, in which K is constant. Moreover, this trend runs counter to the length scale‐dependent view of eddy diffusion, which suggests that K values estimated using 223Ra should exceed those of 224Ra, because the length scale of the former is greater than that of the latter. A finite mixing‐length model based on the concept of differential diffusion is used to provide an explanation for this discrepancy.
Reactivity continuum of dissolved organic carbon decomposition in lake water
Authors: Koehler Birgit , von Wachenfeldt Eddie , Kothawala Dolly , Tranvik Lars J.
Published: December 2011

We determined microbial decomposition of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) over 3.7 year long dark bioassays of six Swedish lake waters. The overall lost DOC fraction was similar in clearwater lakes (34.8 ± 2.4%) and in brownwater lakes (37.8 ± 1.9%). Reactivity continuum modeling revealed that the most labile DOC fraction, degrading at rates >0.01 d−1, was larger in the clearwater lakes (11.1 ± 1.2%) than in the brownwater lakes (0.8 ± 0.1%). The initial apparent first‐order decay coefficientk was fivefold larger in the clearwater lakes (0.0043 ± 0.0012 d−1) than in the brownwater lakes (0.0009 ± 0.0003 d−1). Over time, k decreased more steeply in the clearwater lakes than in the brownwater lakes, reaching the k of the brownwater lakes within 5 months. Finally, k averaged 0.0001 d−1 in both lake categories. In the brownwater lakes, colored dissolved organic matter (CDOM) absorption decayed with an initial k twice as large (0.0018 ± 0.0008 d−1) as that of DOC. The initial kwas inversely correlated with initial specific UV absorption and CDOM absorption and positively correlated with initial tryptophan‐like fluorescence as proxy for autochthonous DOC. Exposure to simulated sunlight at the end of the incubations caused loss of color in the clearwater lakes and loss of DOC in the brownwater lakes, where subsequent mineralization was also stimulated. The DOC lost in the absence of photochemical processes fell below previously reported watershed‐scale losses in Sweden by 25% at most. This suggests that a major part of the in situ DOC loss could potentially be attributed to dark reactions alone.
The volcanic margins of the northern Labrador Sea: Insights to the rifting process
Authors: Keen Charlotte E. , Dickie Kate , Dehler Sonya A.
Published: December 2011

A new interpretation of seismic reflection data on the continental margin of northern Labrador shows basement structures similar to those observed on other volcanic rifted margins. Seaward dipping reflections, inner flows, volcanic plateaus, and lava deltas are observed on these data. Magnetic chron 27n (∼61 Ma) is coincident with the volcanic plateaus, connecting these features to the Paleocene volcanism farther north in Davis Strait. Therefore, we are able to extend the region of volcanism about 500 km south along the margin. Similar structures are also observed on the conjugate west Greenland margin. Below the volcanic plateaus, gravity and wide‐angle seismic data show thick igneous crust, which is fairly symmetrically distributed across the conjugate margins. However, the geometry of the thinned continental crust is not symmetrical: a narrower zone of thinning is observed off northern Labrador. The thick igneous crust lies seaward of thinned continental crust, which exhibits little or no underplating by the magmatic event. This observation is compatible with recent models for the formation of nonvolcanic margins, followed by a magmatic event late in the rift evolution. In Mesozoic time rifting of the cold, thick cratonic lithosphere occurred between Greenland and North America with minimal volcanic activity. Then in Late Cretaceous time, the zone of rifting narrowed and localized seaward of the shelf, creating a relatively narrow zone of lower lithospheric thinning and mantle upwelling into which the Paleocene magmas were eventually channeled. This scenario is supported by studies of Mesozoic igneous rocks on land in coastal west Greenland and Labrador.
Tidal influence on seawater intrusion in unconfined coastal aquifers
Authors: Kuan Woei Keong , Jin Guangqiu , Xin Pei , Robinson Clare , Gibbes Badin , Li Ling
Published: December 2011

Studies of seawater intrusion in unconfined coastal aquifers typically neglect oceanic oscillations such as tides and assume a static seaward boundary condition defined by the mean sea level. Laboratory experiments and numerical simulations were conducted to investigate the influence of tidal oscillations on the behavior of the saltwater wedge. For the conditions examined, the experiments showed that an upper saline plume formed in the intertidal zone due to tide‐induced seawater circulation. The presence of the upper saline plume shifted the fresh groundwater discharge zone seaward to the low‐tide mark and restricted the intrusion of the saltwater wedge. The overall seawater intrusion extent, as indicated by the wedge toe location, was reduced significantly compared with the nontidal (static) case. Results from the numerical model matched these experimental observations and further demonstrated the similar type of tidal influence on the saltwater wedge in a field‐scale aquifer system. The Glover (1959) solution for predicting the saltwater wedge was modified to account for the tidal effect by including the tide‐induced circulation as a “recharge” to the aquifer. The findings highlight the significant impact of the tide in modulating the groundwater behavior and salt‐freshwater dynamics, not only within but also landward of the intertidal zone.
Early activation of the host complement system is required to restrict central nervous system invasion and limit neuropathology during Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus infection
Authors: Brooke Christopher B. , Schäfer Alexandra , Matsushima Glenn K. , White Laura J. , Johnston Robert E.
Published: December 2011

Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) is a mosquito-borne RNA virus of the genusAlphavirus, familyTogaviridae, that is responsible for sporadic outbreaks in human and equid populations in Central and South America. In order to ascertain the role that complement plays in resolving VEEV-induced disease, complement-deficient C3−/−mice were infected with a VEEV mutant (V3533) that caused mild, transient disease in immunocompetent mice. In the absence of a functional complement system, peripheral inoculation with V3533 induced much more severe encephalitis. This enhanced pathology was associated with a delay in clearance of infectious virus from the serum and more rapid invasion of the central nervous system in C3−/−mice. If V3533 was inoculated directly into the brain, however, disease outcome in C3−/−and wild-type mice was identical. These findings indicate that complement-dependent enhancement of peripheral virus clearance is critical for protecting against the development of severe VEEV-induced encephalitis.
Emerging Endoscopic and Photodynamic Techniques for Bladder Cancer Detection and Surveillance
Authors: Patel Prashant , Bryan Richard T. , Wallace D. Michael A.
Published: December 2011

This review provides an overview of emerging techniques, namely, photodynamic diagnosis (PDD), narrow band imaging (NBI), Raman spectroscopy, optical coherence tomography, virtual cystoscopy, and endoscopic microscopy for its use in the diagnosis and surveillance of bladder cancer. The technology, clinical evidence and future applications of these approaches are discussed with particular emphasis on PDD and NBI. These approaches show promise to optimise cystoscopy and transurethral resection of bladder tumours.
Epidemiology and clinical features of pediatric psoriasis in tertiary referral psoriasis clinic
Authors: KWON Hyuck Hoon , NA Sun Jae , JO Seoung Jin , YOUN Jai Il
Published: December 2011

Few epidemiological studies of pediatric patients with moderate to severe psoriasis have been available despite there being no approved systemic therapy for these patients. The aim of the present study was to elucidate clinical features of pediatric psoriasis in a tertiary referral psoriasis clinic. We analyzed the clinical data of 358 patients under 18 years of age referred to our clinic from other private clinics and medical centers. Our data showed a male : female ratio of 1.06:1 and a peak age of onset of 10–11 years. Of the patients, 32.4% had a positive family history. The most prevalent phenotype was plaque type (67.3%) and the mean Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score was 17.2 ± 12.7. The most frequently affected body part was the trunk (69.5%), followed by the legs (65.3%). Exposure to sunlight and summer season improved psoriatic lesions, while stress and winter season aggravated the clinical course. Only 26.0% of patients received systemic therapy or phototherapy during the therapeutic course. Oral acitretin (11.2%) was most frequently used followed by ultraviolet B phototherapy (7.3%). The childhood group (<13 years) showed higher prevalence of guttate and generalized pustular phenotypes and more severe clinical course compared with the adolescent group (13–18 years). In conclusion, our patients showed distinctive features in clinical phenotypes, disease severity and affected body parts compared with previous reports. We also found that clinical application of systemic therapies were limited considering the severe disease state of our patients, demanding a need for more research on treatment of pediatric psoriasis.
Dramatic impact of a Psoriasis Area and Severity Index 90 response on the quality of life in patients with psoriasis: An analysis of Japanese clinical trials of infliximab
Authors: TORII Hideshi , SATO Noriko , YOSHINARI Toru , NAKAGAWA Hidemi ,   The Japanese Infliximab Study Investigators
Published: December 2011

European S3 Guidelines on the systemic treatment of psoriasis in 2009 propose 75% or more improvement in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index from baseline (PASI 75) and a Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) of 0 or 1 as treatment goals. However, the relationship of these two parameters is yet to be clarified. Herein, we analyzed the data pooled from two Japanese phase III clinical trials on psoriasis with infliximab to clarify the PASI response necessary to achieve a DLQI of 0 or 1. Of the 90 patients, the mean percent improvement in PASI at week 50 or 66 was 74.5%, and the PASI 75 and PASI 90 response rates were 66.7% and 46.7%, respectively; no difference in the improvement was noted among the body areas. Significant improvements in nail psoriasis were also observed. A negative correlation was shown between the improvement in PASI and DLQI. Patients who achieved a PASI 90 response had a significantly higher percentage of achieving a DLQI of 0 or 1 than the patients who achieved a PASI 75 but not a PASI 90 response. The median serum trough level of infliximab was maintained at 2 μg/mL or more in the PASI 90 responders, whereas it was less than 1 μg/mL at week 30 and on in the others. The present results demonstrate that a PASI 90 response is necessary to achieve a DLQI of 0 or 1. Infliximab is considered a useful drug in meeting the treatment goal of achieving a DLQI of 0 or 1 through the attainment of a PASI 90 response.
Photorejuvenation using long‐pulsed alexandrite and long‐pulsed neodymium:yttrium–aluminum–garnet lasers: A pilot study of clinical outcome and patients’ satisfaction in Koreans
Authors: LEE Young Bok , SHIN Ji Yeon , CHEON Min Suk , OH Shin Taek , CHO Baik Kee , PARK Hyun Jeong
Published: December 2011

Long‐pulsed 755‐nm alexandrite and long‐pulsed 1064‐nm neodymium:yttrium–aluminum–garnet (Nd:YAG) lasers have been used for photorejuvenation of the face. The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of long‐pulsed alexandrite and long‐pulsed Nd:YAG lasers for photorejuvenation in Korea. One hundred and sixteen Korean patients with photo‐aged facial skin were enrolled. Sixty‐two patients with facial pigmentation underwent long‐pulsed alexandrite laser treatment. Eleven patients that wanted to improve facial pigmentation with minimal pain had quasi‐long‐pulsed alexandrite laser treatment. Forty three patients had long‐pulsed Nd:YAG laser therapy. Outcome assessments included standard photographs and global evaluation by blinded investigators. The self‐assessment grade was provided in questionnaires. Forty‐four percent of patients reported excellent or good improvement of their pigmentary lesions (>50% improvement) using a long‐pulsed alexandrite laser. Of patients who underwent long‐pulsed Nd:YAG laser treatment, 36% reported excellent or good improvement in skin tightening, 50% in facial flushing and 45% in pigmentary lesions. We conclude that long‐pulsed alexandrite and long‐pulsed Nd:YAG lasers are safe and effective for facial photorejuvenation in Koreans.
Congruence of biodiversity measures among larval dragonflies and caddisflies from three Canadian rivers
Authors: CURRY COLIN J. , ZHOU XIN , BAIRD DONALD J.
Published: December 2011

1. Scientists tasked with collecting taxon richness and assemblage variation data for conservation purposes have identified biomonitoring studies as potential sources of information. This approach assumes that biodiversity patterns revealed by biomonitoring reflect those of the wider community, an assumption not thoroughly tested in riverine ecosystems.

2. We compared patterns of taxon richness and assemblage variation in an important biomonitoring group (Trichoptera) with a group with high conservation significance (Odonata) at 34 sites across three fifth‐order catchments. We also explored the effect of abundance on observed patterns by rarefying the larval Trichoptera data set.

3. Our results indicate that Trichoptera do not fully reflect site‐scale taxon richness or assemblage variation in Odonata. The magnitude of odonate assemblage variation was much greater than that of Trichoptera for one of the catchments. Odonata and Trichoptera richness was moderately correlated in two catchments, while assemblage variation was strongly correlated in another pair of catchments. However, comparisons based on rarefied data eliminated differences in the magnitude of assemblage variation and strengthened correlations in richness and assemblage variation, suggesting the lack of congruence in these measures might be due to differences in abundance among groups. Further, incomplete taxonomy may mask additional assemblage variation, particularly in Trichoptera.

4. Conservation planning in riverine ecosystems based on proxies derived from biomonitoring data should proceed cautiously until we understand how well the resulting information reflects biodiversity patterns in under‐sampled taxa and habitats. Future studies of biodiversity congruence should consider both richness and assemblage variation as each provides valuable information for conservation‐related decisions. The taxonomic resolution and relative abundance of comparison groups can potentially impact the strength, direction and statistical significance of patterns. Researchers should employ species‐level taxonomy and account for differences in abundance among groups through rarefaction where at all possible and DNA‐based taxonomy methods can support this.
Proteinuria in AMPD2‐deficient mice
Authors: Toyama Keiko , Morisaki Hiroko , Cheng Jidong , Kawachi Hiroshi , Shimizu Fujio , Ikawa Masahito , Okabe Masaru , Morisaki Takayuki
Published: December 2011

The AMPD2 gene, a member of the AMPD gene family encoding AMP deaminase, is widely expressed in nonmuscle tissues including kidney, although its functions have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we studied the function of the AMPD2 gene by establishing AMPD2‐deficient model animal. We established AMPD2 knockout mice by using gene transfer and homologous recombination in murine ES cells and studied phenotypes and functions in the kidneys of these animals. AMPD activity was decreased from 22.9 mIU/mg protein to 2.5 mIU/mg protein in the kidneys of AMPD knockout mice. In addition to changes in nucleotide metabolism in the kidneys, proteinuria was found in 3‐week‐old AMPD2 knockout mice, followed by a further increment up to a peak level at 6 weeks old (up to 0.6 g/dL). The major protein component in the urine of AMPD2 knockout mice was found to be albumin, indicating that AMPD2 may have a key role in glomerular filtration. Indeed, an ultrastructure study of glomerulus specimens from these mice showed effacement of the podocyte foot processes, resembling minimal‐change nephropathy in humans. Based on our results, we concluded that AMPD2 deficiency induces imbalanced nucleotide metabolism and proteinuria, probably due to podocyte dysfunction.
The influence of smear layer removal on primary tooth pulpectomy outcome: a 24‐month, double‐blind, randomized, and controlled clinical trial evaluation
Authors: BARCELOS ROBERTA , TANNURE PATRICIA NIVOLONI , GLEISER ROGERIO , LUIZ RONIR RAGGIO , PRIMO LAURA GUIMARÃES
Published: December 2011

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2012; 22: 369–381

Background.  The effect of smear layer (SL) removal on primary tooth pulpectomy outcome has not been well elucidated.

Aim.  To determine the effect of SL removal on primary tooth pulpectomy outcome.

Methods.  This is a double‐blind, randomized, and controlled clinical trial. Forty‐eight patients were randomly divided into SL removal (G1 = 40 teeth) or smear layer nonremoval (G2 = 42 teeth) groups. Following the chemomechanical preparation with K‐files and 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), teeth were irrigated with either 6% citric acid and 0.9% physiologic solution (G1) or only 0.9% physiologic solution (G2). Camphorated paramonochlorophenol was used as intracanal medication. At the second appointment, 1 week after, root canals were filled with zinc oxide–eugenol paste. Clinical and radiographical baseline criteria were stipulated equally for both groups.

Results.  The success rate (G1  =  91.2%; G2  =  70.0%) was statistically different (P = 0.04) between the groups. In G2, the outcome was affected significantly by pulpal necrosis (P = 0.02), pre‐operatory symptoms (P = 0.02), and periapical/inter‐radicular radiolucency (P = 0.04).

Conclusion.  The pulpectomy outcome was improved by smear layer removal. The outcome for teeth with pulpal necrosis, pre‐operatory symptoms, or periapical/inter‐radicular radiolucency was significantly improved by removal of the smear layer.
Development of a shared theory in palliative care to enhance nursing competence
Authors: Desbiens Jean‐François , Gagnon Johanne , Fillion Lise
Published: December 2011

desbiens j.‐f., gagnon j. & fillion l. (2012) Development of a shared theory in palliative care to enhance nursing competence. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(9), 2113–2124.

Aim.  This discussion article focuses on the theoretical development of a shared theory in the field of palliative care nursing through a process of comparison between Bandura’s social cognitive theory and Orem’s conceptual model.

Background.  In many countries, nurses are little prepared to provide care to patients with life‐limiting illness. Bandura’s theory provides an appropriate framework for evaluating the impact of training programmes aimed at improving nursing competence in palliative care. However, this borrowed psychological theory is not specific to nursing contexts. Orem’s self‐care deficit theory seems to be an appropriate nursing model to guide the use of Bandura’s theory in palliative care nursing situations.

Data sources.  A review of the literature published between 1987 and 2011 was conducted to evaluate how Bandura’s social cognitive theory and Orem’s conceptual model have been linked at a theoretical level in the past.

Discussion.  Bandura’s theory has been linked with Orem’s model essentially at the patient level. A new shared theory that combines Bandura’s social cognitive theory and Orem’s conceptual model at the nursing level is thus proposed. Palliative care nursing self‐competence is hypothesized to influence the quality of nursing interventions in palliative care situations.

Conclusion.  To further demonstrate the relevance of this proposed shared theory in palliative care nursing contexts, empirical studies are recommended. This shared theory has the potential to provide a solid theoretical framework for evaluating nursing training programmes and, eventually, to improve quality of care and quality of life for patients with life‐limiting illness.
Participatory action research and photovoice in a psychiatric nursing/clubhouse collaboration exploring recovery narrative
Authors: CLEMENTS K.
Published: December 2011

Accessible summary

Personal stories about recovery in mental health are important sources of knowledge.

Research methods are needed for exploring personal stories of recovery which honour and empower the authors of recovery stories.

The Clubhouse of Winnipeg and an assistant professor in psychiatric nursing piloted a research project using photography in order to explore, document and share Clubhouse Member stories of recovery.

The Clubhouse of Winnipeg (a community psychosocial rehabilitation centre) collaborated with a psychiatric nursing assistant professor on a participatory action research (PAR) project exploring the concept of recovery using a using a research method called photovoice. The collaborative project –Our Photos Our Voices– demonstrates how PAR and photovoice are well suited for collaborative research in mental health which honours principles underlying consumer empowerment and recovery. The foundation of empowerment is the power to act on one's behalf; PAR and photovoice support the full participation of concerned individuals in all aspects of research with the ultimate goal of action to solve problems or to meet goals identified by those individuals. Empowerment is also the ability to lay claim to one's own truth. At the core of the recovery model is the principle that recovery is defined by the individual and based on individual determinations of meaningful goals and a meaningful life. TheOur Photos Our Voicesproject uses PAR and photovoice to effectively access, explore, document and share personal, local knowledge about recovery grounded in the personal experience of the Clubhouse researchers.
Role of Helicobacter pylori in patients with HCV‐related chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis with or without hepatocellular carcinoma: possible association with disease progression
Authors: Esmat G. , El‐Bendary M. , Zakarya S. , Ela M. A. , Zalata K.
Published: December 2011

Summary.  The discovery of Helicobacter hepaticus as a causal agent of hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in mice has stimulated interest in looking for Helicobacter species in human liver samples. In this study, we searched for association between H. pylori and HCV‐related liver disease. Liver specimens were collected from eighty‐five patients; they were divided into five different groups according to liver pathology (METAVIR system). Group I (the 1st control group) consisted of 16 patients with chronic hepatitis C without histological activity. Group II consisted of 25 patients with chronic active hepatitis C, Group III, 17 patients with HCV‐related cirrhosis and Group IV, 16 patients with HCV‐related cirrhosis and HCC. Group V (2nd control group) consisted of 11 patients suffering from gastro duodenal and gall bladder diseases but negative for HCV. All cases were tested by polymerase chain reaction on liver samples for the presence of H. pylori DNA Cag A gene. Routine biochemical, radiological and RT‐PCR for HCV RNA were also performed for all cases. The positivity of H. pylori PCR CagA gene in liver tissue was directly proportional to the severity of liver pathology, this being 75%, 52.9% and 32% in groups IV, III and II, respectively, which was more significant than the 1st and 2nd control groups (P < 0.001). There was a significant difference between H. pylori PCR values when compared to METAVIR staging (F) in different groups (P = 0.001). Helicobacter pylori PCR (Cag A gene) was positive in about 28.2% cases of late fibrosis (F3 + F4) while positivity was (5.9%) in early fibrosis (F1 + F2) (P = 0.0001). There was significant difference between H. pylori PCR (Cag A gene) in liver tissue and METAVIR activity in different groups (P = 0.002) as most of H. pylori PCR–positive cases were METAVIR activity A1 and A2 (15.3% and 12.9%, respectively). There was no association between H. pylori PCR and quantitative HCV RNA (P = 0.531). Also there was no significant difference of Child‐Pugh staging in the H. pylori PCR–positive group when compared to the negative group (P = 0.996). There may be an association between the presence of H. pylori (Cag A gene) in the liver and disease progression in HCV‐related chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis with and without HCC.
Effect of sexual recombination on population diversity in aflatoxin production by Aspergillus flavus and evidence for cryptic heterokaryosis
Authors: OLARTE RODRIGO A. , HORN BRUCE W. , DORNER JOE W. , MONACELL JAMES T. , SINGH RAKHI , STONE ERIC A. , CARBONE IGNAZIO
Published: December 2011

Aspergillus flavus is the major producer of carcinogenic aflatoxins (AFs) in crops worldwide. Natural populations of A. flavus show tremendous variation in AF production, some of which can be attributed to environmental conditions, differential regulation of the AF biosynthetic pathway and deletions or loss‐of‐function mutations in the AF gene cluster. Understanding the evolutionary processes that generate genetic diversity in A. flavus may also explain quantitative differences in aflatoxigenicity. Several population studies using multilocus genealogical approaches provide indirect evidence of recombination in the genome and specifically in the AF gene cluster. More recently, A. flavus has been shown to be functionally heterothallic and capable of sexual reproduction in laboratory crosses. In the present study, we characterize the progeny from nine A. flavus crosses using toxin phenotype assays, DNA sequence‐based markers and array comparative genome hybridization. We show high AF heritability linked to genetic variation in the AF gene cluster, as well as recombination through the independent assortment of chromosomes and through crossing over within the AF cluster that coincides with inferred recombination blocks and hotspots in natural populations. Moreover, the vertical transmission of cryptic alleles indicates that while an A. flavus deletion strain is predominantly homokaryotic, it may harbour AF cluster genes at a low copy number. Results from experimental matings indicate that sexual recombination is driving genetic and functional hyperdiversity in A. flavus. The results of this study have significant implications for managing AF contamination of crops and for improving biocontrol strategies using nonaflatoxigenic strains of A. flavus.
Estimating population divergence time and phylogeny from single‐nucleotide polymorphisms data with outgroup ascertainment bias
Authors: WANG YONG , NIELSEN RASMUS
Published: December 2011

The inference of population divergence times and branching patterns is of fundamental importance in many population genetic analyses. Many methods have been developed for estimating population divergence times, and recently, there has been particular attention towards genome‐wide single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) data. However, most SNP data have been affected by an ascertainment bias caused by the SNP selection and discovery protocols. Here, we present a modification of an existing maximum likelihood method that will allow approximately unbiased inferences when ascertainment is based on a set of outgroup populations. We also present a method for estimating trees from the asymmetric dissimilarity measures arising from pairwise divergence time estimation in population genetics. We evaluate the methods by simulations and by applying them to a large SNP data set of seven East Asian populations.
Maize ZmALMT2 is a root anion transporter that mediates constitutive root malate efflux
Authors: LIGABA AYALEW , MARON LYZA , SHAFF JON , KOCHIAN LEON , PIÑEROS MIGUEL
Published: December 2011

Root efflux of organic acid anions underlies a major mechanism of plant aluminium (Al) tolerance on acid soils. This efflux is mediated by transporters of the Al‐activated malate transporter (ALMT) or the multi‐drug and toxin extrusion (MATE) families. ZmALMT2 was previously suggested to be involved in Al tolerance based on joint association‐linkage mapping for maize Al tolerance. In the current study, we functionally characterized ZmALMT2 by heterologously expressing it in Xenopus laevis oocytes and transgenic Arabidopsis. In oocytes, ZmALMT2 mediated an Al‐independent electrogenic transport product of organic and inorganic anion efflux. Ectopic overexpression of ZmALMT2 in an Al‐hypersensitive Arabidopsis KO/KD line lacking the Al tolerance genes, AtALMT1 and AtMATE, resulted in Al‐independent constitutive root malate efflux which partially restored the Al tolerance phenotype. The lack of correlation between ZmALMT2 expression and Al tolerance (e.g., expression not localized to the root tip, not up‐regulated by Al, and higher in sensitive versus tolerance maize lines) also led us to question ZmALMT2's role in Al tolerance. The functional properties of the ZmALMT2 transporter presented here, along with the gene expression data, suggest that ZmALMT2 is not involved in maize Al tolerance but, rather, may play a role in mineral nutrient acquisition and transport.
Rural residency and the risk of mortality while waiting for liver transplantation
Authors: Renfrew Paul Douglas , Molinari Michele
Published: December 2011

Renfrew PD, Molinari M. Rural residency and the risk of mortality while waiting for liver transplantation.

Abstract:  Our liver transplant program services a region that has a prominent rural demographic. The influence of rural residency on liver transplant wait‐list mortality has not been previously studied. We hypothesized that residence in a rural setting, by imposing challenges to medical care access, might be associated with inferior survival while waiting for liver transplantation. To test this hypothesis, multivariable time‐to‐event analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazards and competing risks regression on data from a consecutive five‐yr cohort of 159 primary liver transplant candidates, to derive covariate adjusted effect measures for the association between residence in a rural area and wait‐list mortality. For the primary analysis, a standardized, census‐based, definition was used to assign rural residency status. The Kaplan–Meier estimated 90‐d and one‐yr wait‐list mortality for the cohort was 7.6% (95% CI: 4.2–13.8) and 15.6% (95% CI: 9.4–25.2). The covariate adjusted hazard ratio for the relationship between Rural and Small Town residency status and wait‐list mortality was 0.497 (95% CI: 0.171–1.438, p = 0.197) for the Cox regression model and 0.628 (95% CI: 0.224–1.757, p = 0.376) for the competing risk regression model. As defined in this study, candidate residence in a rural setting was not found to be associated with inferior survival while awaiting liver transplantation.
The use of methotrexate in dermatology: a review
Authors: Shen Sarah , O’Brien Tim , Yap Lei Mee , Prince H Miles , McCormack Christopher J
Published: December 2011

Methotrexate is a synthetic folic acid analogue valued for both its anti‐proliferative and anti‐inflammatory properties. Considered one of the original immune‐modifying agents, it is used widely for the treatment of steroid‐recalcitrant inflammatory diseases. While there are abundant studies documenting its efficacy in rheumatic diseases, the use of methotrexate for dermatological conditions, with the exception of psoriasis, has yet to be comprehensively explored. This two‐part review firstly outlines current data concerning the pharmacology of methotrexate, including its mechanism of action, side‐effect profile and recommended therapeutic approach, and, secondly, examines the emerging evidence for methotrexate's efficacy in a wide range of cutaneous disorders.
Sacroiliitis secondary to isotretinoin
Authors: Levinson Michele , Gibson Andrew , Stephenson Gemma
Published: December 2011

Reported is the case of a 17‐year old male with sacroiliitis confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) while undergoing isotretinoin treatment for acne vulgaris. The cessation of isotretinoin and symptomatic treatment resolved the symptoms within 6 weeks, with no signs of sacroiliitis on repeat MRI 10 months later. The temporal association of disease onset and commencement of isotretinoin along with rapid recovery on withdrawal supports the role of isotretinoin in this case.
Toxic epidermal necrolysis‐like subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ryan Emma , Marshman Gillian , Astill David
Published: December 2011

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN)‐like presentations have been described in non–drug‐induced settings. We describe a case of subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE) in a 53‐year old woman, which evolved into a TEN‐like presentation over the course of 4 weeks. The patient responded rapidly to treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone. This article draws attention to features that may be used to differentiate classical TEN from TEN‐like SCLE.
Eccrine angiomatous hamartoma causing walking difficulties
Authors: Chen Shuang , Xiong Lin , Wang Sheng , Wang Ting‐Ting , Wang Lin , Gurung Dilip
Published: December 2011

Eccrine angiomatous hamartoma (EAH) is a rare tumoral lesion that consists of vascular and eccrine malformation and often occurs in the distal extremities of children. Although EAH is benign, a therapeutic excision may be required for symptomatic or cosmetic considerations. We hereby report a typical case of EAH presenting as a painful and rapidly growing plaque on the right thigh. The associated symptoms of pain, hyperhidrosis and local hypertrichosis caused walking difficulties until the patient was cured by two excisional surgeries.
Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm
Authors: Lim David , Goodman Hugh , Rademaker Marius , Lamont Duncan , Yung Anthony
Published: December 2011

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare haematological malignancy that originates from the precursors of plasmacytoid dendritic cells. It commonly presents with findings isolated to the skin although it usually progresses to a leukaemic phase. It has a poor prognosis but is curable, particularly in younger patients treated with allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. We report a case of a 79‐year old man who had 6 months of progressive, asymptomatic BPDCN manifestations limited to the skin, before developing a leukaemic phase.