bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of hyperprolactinaemia in female premenopausal blood donors
Authors: Alpañés Macarena , Sanchón Raúl , Martínez‐García Mª Ángeles , Martínez‐Bermejo Elena , Escobar‐Morreale Héctor F.
Published: February 2013

Objective

The prevalence of asymptomatic hyperprolactinaemia has been widely studied in certain populations such as antipsychotic drugs users, infertile women or patients with primary hypothyroidism, but data on the prevalence of hyperprolactinaemia and macroprolactinaemia in the healthy population are very scarce in the literature. We aimed to obtain an unbiased estimation of the prevalence in premenopausal women of: (i) hyperprolactinaemia and (ii) its aetiology, including macroprolactinaemia and stress‐related hyperprolactinaemia, while considering simultaneously the use of hormonal contraceptives.

Design

Prevalence survey.

Subjects

Three‐hundred and ninety‐three consecutive premenopausal women reporting spontaneously for blood donation.

Measurements

We performed an exhaustive clinical history and physical examination, establishing the presence of hirsutism, acne, alopecia, menstrual dysfunction and reproductive history. We also measured serum prolactin (PRL) (ruling out macroprolactinaemia when indicated), thyrotrophin, total testosterone, androstendione, sex hormone binding globulin and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate concentrations.

Results

Serum PRL concentrations were increased in 16 of 393 women (4·1% prevalence, 95% CI: 2·1–6·0). The prevalence of macroprolactinaemia was 0·6% (95% CI: 0–1) in the total female blood donor population and was 12·5% (95% CI: 6–31) among hyperprolactinaemic patients. The remaining hyperprolactinaemic women had stress‐related hyperprolactinaemia as the more likely aetiology. Finally, the frequency of hyperprolactinaemia was similar in users and nonusers of hormonal contraceptives (4·5% and 3·9% respectively, P = 0·209).

Conclusions

The prevalence of hyperprolactinaemia in healthy female blood donors is low and is not influenced by the use of hormonal contraceptives. Pathological causes are very rare with stress‐related hyperprolactinaemia and macroprolactinaemia being the most frequent causes of hyperprolactinaemia in these women.
Serum selenium is low in newly diagnosed Graves’ disease: a population‐based study
Authors: Bülow Pedersen Inge , Knudsen Nils , Carlé Allan , Schomburg Lutz , Köhrle Josef , Jørgensen Torben , Rasmussen Lone Banke , Ovesen Lars , Laurberg Peter
Published: March 2013

Context

Selenium deficiency may play an important role in the initiation and progression of autoimmune thyroid disease.

Objective

To compare serum selenium (s‐Se) values in patients with newly diagnosed autoimmune thyroid disease and controls from the Danish population.

Design and settings

S‐Se was measured in triplicate by a fluorimetric method.

Participants

Patients with newly diagnosed Graves’ disease (GD) (n = 97) or autoimmune overt hypothyroidism (AIH) (n = 96), euthyroid subjects with high serum levels of thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO‐Ab) (TPO‐Ab > 1500 U/ml, n = 92) and random controls (n = 830).

Main outcome measure

Differences in s‐Se values.

Results

S‐Se was lower in patients with GD than in controls (mean (SD), GD: 89·9 μg/l (18·4); controls: 98·8 μg/l (19·7), P < 0·01). This was confirmed in a multivariate logistic regression model adjusting for age, sex, mineral supplements, smoking, geographical region and time of sampling (P < 0·01). In a linear model, s‐Se was similar in patients with AIH (mean (SD): 98·4 μg/l (24·9)) and in controls (P = 0·86). In the multivariate model however, s‐Se was marginally lower in patients with AIH compared to controls (P = 0·04). There was no significant difference in s‐Se between euthyroid participants with high TPO‐Ab and random controls (linear: P = 0·97; multivariate: P = 0·27).

Conclusion

Patients with newly diagnosed GD and AIH had significantly lower s‐Se compared with random controls. Our observation supports the postulated link between inadequate selenium supply and overt autoimmune thyroid disease, especially GD.
A DNA Methyltransferase Inhibitor, 5‐Aza‐2′‐Deoxycytidine, Exacerbates Neurotoxicity and Upregulates Parkinson's Disease‐Related Genes in Dopaminergic Neurons
Authors: Wang Yong , Wang Xuan , Li Ran , Yang Zhao‐Fei , Wang Yi‐Zheng , Gong Xiao‐Li , Wang Xiao‐Min
Published: February 2013

Aims

To investigate effects of DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitors on dopaminergic neurons and its underlied mechanism.

Methods

The DNMT inhibitor 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine (5‐aza‐dC) was tested in cultured dopaminergic cells. Cell viability and apoptosis were assayed with 5‐aza‐dC alone. Neurotoxicity of 1‐methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium (MPP+), 6‐hydroxydopamine or rotenone was also assayed with 5‐aza‐dC pretreatment. And mRNA levels of several key PD‐related genes were examined by semiquantitative RT‐PCR. Furthermore, CpG methylation of α‐synuclein promoter was examined by bisulfite sequencing.

Results

5‐aza‐dC resulted in decreased cell viability and increased apoptosis in dopaminergic neuronal cells. Pretreatment with 5‐aza‐dC exacerbated neurotoxic damage to dopaminergic neurons induced by MPP+, 6‐hydroxydopamine or rotenone. 5‐aza‐dC also induced transcriptional upregulation of the key PD‐related genes tyrosine hydroxylase and α‐synuclein. And demethylation of CpG in α‐synuclein promoter was also induced by 5‐aza‐dC and MPP+.

Conclusions

This DNMT inhibitor might influence pathogenesis of PD. And demethylation induced by DNMT inhibitor might contribute to dopaminergic neuron death, by increasing vulnerability of dopaminergic neurons to neurotoxins and by misregulating transcription of key PD‐related genes. Our data also suggested DNMT inhibitors may cause multiple effects on dopaminergic neurons.
The current state of play in the histopathologic assessment of alopecia: two for one or one for two?
Authors: Tailor Ameet , Asher Ruth G. , Craig Paul J. , Groves Richard W. , Fenton David A. , Stefanato Catherine M.
Published: February 2013

The histopathologic assessment of a scalp biopsy for alopecia relies largely on the quality of the specimen provided for evaluation. There are a number of different protocols in the literature which have been proposed over the years, but no consensus has yet been reached as to the appropriate number of biopsies to be taken, or to which sectioning technique is the gold standard for achieving the best diagnostic yield. We herein review the pros and cons of the various protocols and share the experience with our St John's protocol.
Good outcome in patients with early dietary treatment of GLUT‐1 deficiency syndrome: results from a retrospective Norwegian study
Authors: Ramm‐Pettersen Anette , Nakken Karl O , Skogseid Inger M , Randby Hans , Skei Erik B , Bindoff Laurence A , Selmer Kaja K
Published: March 2013

Aim

The aim of this study was to characterize patients diagnosed with glucose transporter protein‐1 deficiency syndrome (GLUT‐1 DS) clinically and genetically, and to evaluate the effect of treatment with the classic ketogenic or modified Atkins diet.

Method

We retrospectively studied medical records of 10 patients diagnosed with GLUT‐1 DS. Four females and six males with a median age of 15 years were included.

Results

The study illustrates the genetic and clinical heterogeneity of GLUT‐1 DS. Analysis of the SLC2A1 gene disclosed a variety of mutation types. The time between onset of symptoms and diagnosis was more than 11 years on average. The outcome in those with early diagnosis and intervention was surprisingly good. All but one patient with the classic phenotype became seizure free after treatment with the classic ketogenic or modified Atkins diet. Acetazolamide was effective in one patient with paroxysmal exercise‐induced dyskinesia. A point prevalence of GLUT‐1 DS in Norway was estimated as 2.6 per 1 000 000 inhabitants.

Interpretation

Although the long‐term prognosis in patients with GLUT‐1 DS partly depends on the underlying genetics, our study supports the assumption that early initiation of treatment with a ketogenic diet may positively affect the outcome.
Cone beam computed tomography and other imaging techniques in the determination of periapical healing
Authors: Peters Christine I. , Peters Ove A.
Published: February 2013

To be able to determine if endodontic treatment of apical pathosis is successful or not, healing of lesions is followed up by radiographic imaging. This can be done by observing changes in apical radiolucencies. Recently, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) has been introduced as a method of gaining an unabridged view of dental anatomy, thus eliminating some of the most prevalent problems, such as superimposition and distortion. CBCT reduces false diagnosis and is rapidly replacing other radiographic techniques in diagnosis, quality control of treatment methods and techniques, and outcome assessment. Healing assessment using conventional and newer three‐dimensional imaging includes, but is not limited to, periapical osseous lesions, conditions of the maxillary sinus, status after endodontic surgery, hard tissue deposition in regeneration procedures, and horizontal root fractures. Due to a low predictive value of two‐dimensional periapical radiographs to distinguish between periapical disease and health, future assessment of endodontic treatment efficacy may include 3D imaging from small field‐of‐view CBCT units.
Understanding the Relationship Between Language Performance and University Course Grades
Authors: Brown Alan V.
Published: March 2013

This article presents preliminary data correlating students' scores on measures of speaking, listening, and reading with their grades in Spanish courses. As might be expected, students with higher grades generally scored higher on performance assessments than did classmates with lower course grades. However, large score ranges resulted within a single letter grade. In addition, some students with low course grades scored rather well on certain measures of performance while some students with high course grades had low scores. In sum, the relationship between course grades, GPA, and performance level as evidenced by these data were far from predictable and underscored the need for (1) more research using a variety of methodologies, and (2) more careful alignment of course grades with demonstrated abilities to use language in interpretive and interpersonal settings.
Polyphasic hydrothermal and meteoric fluid regimes during the growth of a segmented fault involving crystalline and carbonate rocks (Barcelona Plain, NE Spain)
Authors: Cantarero I. , Travé A. , Alías G. , Baqués V.
Published: March 2013

A polyphasic tectonic‐fluid system of a fault that involves crystalline and carbonate rocks (Hospital fault, Barcelona Plain) has been inferred from regional to thin section scale observations combined with geochemical analyses. Cathodoluminescence, microprobe analyses and stable isotopy in fracture‐related cements record the circulation of successive alternations of hydrothermal and low‐temperature meteoric fluids linked with three main regional tectonic events. The first event corresponds to the Mesozoic extension, which had two rifting stages, and it is characterized by the independent tectonic activity of two fault segments, namely southern and northern Hospital fault segments. During the Late Permian‐Middle Jurassic rifting, these segments controlled the thickness and distribution of the Triassic sediments. Also, dolomitization was produced in an early stage by Triassic seawater at shallow conditions. During increasing burial, formation of fractures and their dolomite‐related cements took place. Fault activity during the Middle Jurassic–Late Cretaceous rifting was localized in the southern segment, and it was characterized by hydrothermal brines, with temperatures over 180°C, which ascended through this fault segment precipitating quartz, chlorite, and calcite. The second event corresponds to the Paleogene compression (Chattian), which produced exhumation, folding and erosion, favouring the percolation of low‐temperature meteoric fluids which produced the calcitization of the dolostones and of the dolomite cements. The third event is linked with the Neogene extension, where three stages have been identified. During the syn‐rift stage, the southern segment of the Hospital fault grew by tip propagation. In the relay zone, hydrothermal brines with temperature around 140°C upflowed. During the late postrift, the Hospital fault acted as a unique segment and deformation occurred at shallow conditions and under a low‐temperature meteoric regime. Finally, and possibly during the Messinian compression, NW‐SE strike‐slip faults offset the Hospital fault to its current configuration.
SHRIMP U–Pb dating of zircons related to the partial melting in a deep subduction zone: Case study from the Sanbagawa quartz‐bearing eclogite
Authors: Arakawa Miyuki , Okamoto Kazuaki , Yi Keewook , Terabayashi Masaru , Tsutsumi Yukiyasu
Published: February 2013

Dehydrated fluid from a subducting cold slab is considered to cause deep focused earthquakes and island‐arc volcanism. The Sanbagawa high P–T metamorphic rocks have been considered as typical cold oceanic material subducted during the Cretaceous. However, we have discovered an eclogite outcrop exhibiting partial melting texture in the Sanbagawa metamorphic belt, central Shikoku, Japan. The discovery is significant because the melt may play an important role in deep‐focused earthquakes and the melt itself may directly contribute to the origin of island‐arc magmatism. In order to confirm the age of partial melting of Sanbagawa metamorphic rocks, we dated zircons from both the melted portion and the host eclogite using the U–Pb SHRIMP age‐dating at the Korean Basic Science Institute. Zircons from the melted portion (SHT16, 75) are rounded and have sector zoning. The core and mantle yield U–Pb age in the 130–113 Ma range (120 Ma average), and the rim ages are in the 115–104 Ma range. Zircons from the eclogite (SHT15, 76) have a homogenous core with thin mantle and rims. The U–Pb ages are concentrated at 123–112 Ma. These pieces of evidence suggest that the eclogite metamorphism occurred at about 120 Ma and subsequent partial melting happened at about 110 Ma.
Micro‐X‐ray absorption near edge structure determination of Fe3+/ΣFe in omphacite inclusion within garnet from Dabie eclogite, East‐Central China
Authors: Terabayashi Masaru , Matsui Takashi , Okamoto Kazuaki , Ozawa Hiroaki , Kaneko Yoshiyuki , Maruyama Shigenori
Published: February 2013

The Fe K‐edge micro‐X‐ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectra of omphacite included within garnet from the Dabie eclogites, east‐central China, were measured to estimate the oxidation state of iron in omphacite. The micro‐XANES analyses of omphacite inclusions within garnet yield higher Fe3+/ΣFe ratios of 0.18 to 0.59 than those of 0.00 to 0.31 calculated by charge balance from electron microprobe analyses. The estimated temperatures of garnet‐clinopyroxene pairs from 10 eclogites using Fe3+ and Fe2+ contents calculated by charge balance are 603 to 1078°C except one sample. The temperatures calculated using micro‐XANES‐measured Fe3+ and Fe2+ contents are 530–918°C except one sample. Along the north–south cross‐section in the study area, the estimated temperatures based on the charge balance calculation of Fe3+ tend to be identical or higher than temperatures estimated based on the calculation of Fe3+ using the XANES technique. Seven of the micro‐XANES measurements give approximate temperatures from 500°C to 700°C, and three of the measurements give temperatures of more than 800°C. Those three samples contain higher XGrs corresponding to the distribution coefficient of garnet‐clinopyroxene pairs. The pressure and temperature results estimated by the garnet‐clinopyroxene‐phengite geothermobarometers are mostly in subsolidus conditions, suggesting that there is no extensive melting in eclogite. The present study represents a new temperature calibration based on Fe3+ estimates in omphacite inclusion within garnet based on the XANES analysis, which is taken into account.
Audit of the aetiology and prevalence of pulmonary hypertension in a tertiary hospital setting
Authors: Suri P. , Bull N. , Worthington A. , Gunawaran P. , Reeves G. , Bastian B. , Collins N.
Published: February 2013

Appropriate diagnosis and initiation of disease‐specific treatment is an important therapeutic goal in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension. We evaluated the prevalence and aetiology of moderate‐to‐severe pulmonary hypertension in a cohort of patients referred for inpatient echocardiography, with significant pulmonary hypertension documented in 4.6%. Pulmonary hypertension complicating left heart disease was the most common aetiology, with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension less frequent.
The use of a non cultured autologous cell suspension to repair chronic ulcers
Authors: De Angelis B , Migner A , Lucarini L , Agovino A , Cervelli V
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this uncontrolled study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of ReCell® system in the treatment of chronic ulcers. From October 2011 to July 2012, 20 patients, 8 men and 12 women with a mean age of 70 years, with chronic ulcers of different aetiology that were unresponsive to conventional therapies were recruited and treated using the ReCell® system. Patient pain rate, scar aesthetics and patient satisfaction were assessed using a Visual Analogue Scale, Manchester Scar Scale and the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale, respectively. Complete ulcer healing, defined as 100% reepithelialisation was observed between 40 and 60 days in 14 patients (70%) depending on the type of ulcer and comorbidity. At day 60 postprocedure, 80% reepithelialisation was present in five patients (25%), while one patient with concomitant psoriasis had 50% reepithelialisation. Pain scores improved by day 7 postprocedure. The function and aesthetics of the ReCell‐treated patients were good. It is concluded that the ReCell technique may have provided the regenerative tissue stimulation necessary for the rapid healing of chronic ulcers, including those not responsive to more traditional methods.
Efficacy of adding behavioural treatment or antimuscarinic drug therapy to α‐blocker therapy in men with nocturia
Authors: Johnson Theodore M. , Markland Alayne D. , Goode Patricia S. , Vaughan Camille P. , Colli Janet L. , Ouslander Joseph G. , Redden David T. , McGwin Gerald , Burgio Kathryn L.
Published: March 2013

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

Nocturia is a common and bothersome lower urinary tract symptom, particularly in men. Many single drug therapies have limited benefit.

For men who have persistent nocturia despite alpha‐blocker therapy, the addition of behavioural and exercise therapy is statistically superior to anticholinergic therapy.

Objective

To compare reductions in nocturia resulting from adding either behavioural treatment or antimuscarinic drug therapy to α‐adrenergic antagonist (α‐blocker) therapy in men.

Patients and Methods

Participants were men who had continuing urinary frequency >8 voids/day) and urgency after 4 weeks of α‐blocker therapy run‐in and who had ≥1 nightly episode of nocturia.

Participants received individually titrated drug therapy (extended‐release oxybutynin) or multicomponent behavioural treatment (pelvic floor muscle training, delayed voiding and urge suppression techniques).

Seven‐day bladder diaries were used to calculate reductions in mean nocturia.

Results

A total of 127 men aged 42–88 years with ≥1 nocturia episode per night were included in the study.

There were 76 men who had a mean of ≥2 nocturia episodes.

Among those with ≥1 nocturia episode, behavioural treatment reduced nightly nocturia by a mean of 0.97 episodes and was significantly more effective than drug therapy (mean reduction = 0.56 episodes; P = 0.01).

Participants with ≥2 episodes nocturia at baseline also showed larger changes with behavioural treatment compared with antimuscarinic therapy (mean reduction = 1.26 vs 0.61; P = 0.008).

Conclusions

Both behavioural treatment and drug therapy reduced nocturia in men with ≥1 episode of nocturia/night when added to α‐blocker therapy.

These results were similar even when only those with ≥2 episodes of nocturia were considered.

The addition of behavioural treatment was statistically better than bladder‐relaxant therapy for nocturia.
Impact of pre‐treatment prostate tissue androgen content on the prediction of castration‐resistant prostate cancer development in patients treated with primary androgen deprivation therapy
Authors: Shibata Y. , Suzuki K. , Arai S. , Miyoshi Y. , Umemoto S. , Masumori N. , Kamiya N. , Ichikawa T. , Kitagawa Y. , Mizokami A. , Sugimura Y. , Nonomura N. , Sakai H. , Honma S. , Kubota Y.
Published: February 2013

Great advances in tissue androgen analysis using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) have made it possible to evaluate the tissue androgen content from a single needle prostate biopsy specimen. In this study, we investigated if pre‐treatment androgen content in prostate biopsy specimens could predict their response to primary androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and future castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). One‐hundred and sixty‐five prostate cancer patients who received primary ADT were enrolled. They had received multiple core prostate needle biopsy at diagnosis, and an additional one needle biopsy specimen was obtained for tissue androgen determination using LC‐MS/MS. The patients' prostate specific antigen (PSA) values were periodically followed during the treatment and patients were determined to have CRPC when their PSA value increased continuously to 25% above the nadir and a 2.0 ng/mL increase. A significant correlation was found between PSA value decline velocity (PSA half‐time) after ADT and pre‐ADT tissue androgen content. Twenty‐three patients were determined to have CRPC. These CRPC patients had a significantly high concentration of tissue T (p < 0.01) and low concentration of tissue 5α‐dihydrotestosterone (DHT) (p < 0.01), resulting in a higher tissue T/DHT ratio (p < 0.001). A multivariate Cox proportional hazard model revealed the pre‐ADT tissue T/DHT ratio and Gleason score as independent predictors for CRPC development. By using the two statistically significant variables, the relative risk of CRPC development could be calculated. The results of this study suggest that the evaluation of prostate androgen content in a single needle biopsy specimen may be useful to predict future CRPC development after primary ADT. Further studies are required for the clinical application of T/DHT ratio evaluation.
High‐Temperature Dielectric Relaxation in Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 Single Crystals
Authors: Wang Chunchang , Zhang Meini , Xia Wei
Published: March 2013

We reported the dielectric properties of Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3–PbTiO3 single crystal in the temperature range of 300–1073 K and the frequency range of 100 Hz–10 MHz. Our results showed the coexistence of both true‐ and pseudo‐relaxor behaviors in the crystal. The true relaxor behavior related to the paraelectric‐ferroelectric phase transition occurs at~423 K. The pseudo‐relaxor behavior appearing at~773 K was found to be related to oxygen vacancies. Further investigation reveals that the pseudo‐relaxor behavior has fine structure: it contains two oxygen‐vacancy‐related relaxation processes. The low‐temperature relaxation process is a dipolar relaxation created by the hopping motions of the oxygen vacancies, and the high‐temperature relaxation process is a Maxwell‐Wagner relaxation caused by the sample/electrode contacts.
Assessment of ripening stages of Cavendish dwarf bananas as host or non‐host to Bactrocera invadens
Authors: Cugala D. , Ekesi S. , Ambasse D. , Adamu R. S. , Mohamed S. A.
Published: February 2013

We assessed the infestation of Bactrocera invadens Drew Tsuruta & White on field‐collected Cavendish dwarf bananas of different ripening stages in Kenya and Mozambique. Of 5085 fruits collected in Kenya, B. invadens was reared from all ripening stages except bananas at the mature green stage. The highest level of fruit fly infestation was recorded from the ‘all yellow’ fruit ripening stage at 17% of which 401 B. invadens was recovered. In Mozambique, no fruit flies were recovered from a total of 169 fruits of different ripening stages sampled. Of 1349 culled Cavendish dwarf bananas sample, the highest number of fruit flies (518 B. invadens) was recovered from fruits that were precociously ripened. In field cage experiments conducted in Kenya and Mozambique, although oviposition wounds (101–587) were observed on green bananas after artificial infestation with 100–1000 gravid B. invadens females, no flies were recovered from fruits at the green stage of harvest maturity. Based on the results of these findings, mature green bananas of the Cavendish dwarf cultivar should be considered as a non‐host stage of maturity for B. invadens. However, bunches with precociously ripened fingers and with other damages such as cracks and splits, ant burns, abrasions, point bruise, tip rot or general decay should be carefully inspected before export and discarded because such damages can permit attack by B. invadens and pose the risk of inadvertent translocation of the insect during export.
Systematic review of the quality of clinical guidelines for aphasia in stroke management
Authors: Rohde Alexia , Worrall Linda , Le Dorze Guylaine
Published: March 2013

Rationaleaims and objectives

Aphasia affects up to 38% of stroke survivors. Clinical guidelines can improve patient care and outcomes. Given the importance of aphasia management in stroke care, the purpose of this study was to systematically search for, retrieve and assess the quality of currently published clinical guidelines for aphasia in stroke management.

Method

Systematic search of bibliographic resources, publications, association websites, databases, Internet and pearling revealed multidisciplinary stroke and speech pathology‐specific clinical guidelines, which were evaluated using the Appraisal of Guidelines and Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II tool. Guidelines obtaining a rigour of development score above 66.67% in AGREE II evaluations underwent further ADAPTE Collaboration tool analysis.

Results

There was significant variability in methodological rigour, reporting of guideline development processes and scope of coverage of recommendations pertaining to aphasia management provided within the guidelines. The Australian Clinical Guidelines for Stroke Management (2010) and New Zealand Clinical Guidelines for Stroke Management (2010) achieved the highest scores (74% and 81%, respectively) in AGREE II analysis and both obtained a ‘yes’ in all seven ADAPTE domains. The Scottish Intercollegiate Guideline Network 108 (2008) guideline achieved 73% in AGREE II and six out of seven ‘yes’ in ADAPTE, however, contained no aphasia‐specific recommendations. The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (2005) guideline provided the most comprehensive aphasia coverage, however, demonstrated lower methodological rigour in AGREE II (64%) and ADAPTE evaluations (three ‘yes’ out of seven).

Conclusion

Improvement is needed in the quality of methodological rigour in development and reporting within clinical guidelines, and in aphasia‐specific recommendations within stroke multidisciplinary clinical guidelines.
Morphological aspects and histological effects of the attachment organ of Parabrachiella sp. (Copepoda: Lernaeopodidae) on the grey mullet, Mugil liza Valenciennes
Authors: Plaul S E , Montes M M , Barbeito C G , Martorelli S R
Published: March 2013

The genus Parabrachiella Wilson, 1915 (Lernaeopodidae) is represented by copepods that are highly adapted to a parasitic way of life. In Argentina, only P. insidiosa var. lageniformis Heller, 1865, P. chevreuxii Van Beneden, 1891 and P. spinicephala Ringuelet, 1945 have been cited, but none of these have been reported on mugilids. Recently, other species of this genus were found attached to the nasal cavities of juvenile grey mullets, Mugil liza Valenciennes, from Samborombón bay, Buenos Aires province. In this study, the prevalence and mean intensity of the Parabrachiella sp. on grey mullet is investigated. In addition, the damage the parasite imposes on its hosts is examined through evaluation of histological sections and immunostaining for proliferative cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). The morphology of the parasite's bulla is described from light and scanning electron micrographs.
Decoupling Analysis of Four Selected Countries
Authors: Wang Heming , Hashimoto Seiji , Yue Qiang , Moriguchi Yuichi , Lu Zhongwu
Published: March 2013

We examine decoupling conditions of domestic extraction of materials, energy use, and sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from gross domestic product (GDP) for two BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China) countries (i.e., China and Russia) and two Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) countries (Japan and the United States) during 2000–2007, using a pair of decoupling indicators for resource use (Dr) and waste emissions (De) and the decoupling chart, which can distinguish between absolute decoupling, relative decoupling, and non‐decoupling. We find that (1) during 2000–2007, decoupling between environmental indicators and GDP was higher in the two OECD countries as compared with the two BRIC countries. The key reason is that these countries were in different development stages with different economic growth rates. (2) Changes in environmental policies can significantly influence the degree of decoupling in a country. (3) China, Japan, and the United States were more successful in decoupling SO2 emissions from GDP than in decoupling material and energy use from GDP. The main reason is that, unlike resource use, waste emissions (e.g., SO2 emissions) can be reduced by effective end‐of‐pipe treatment. (4) The decoupling indicator is different from the changing rate of resource use and waste emissions. If two countries have different GDP growth rates, even though they may have similar values using the decoupling indicator, they may show different rates of change for resource use and waste emissions.
The Temporal Evolution of Anthropogenic Phosphorus Consumption in China and Its Environmental Implications
Authors: Ma Dunchao , Hu Shanying , Chen Dingjiang , Li Yourun
Published: March 2013

Modern human activities greatly disturb substance flows in nature and senselessly discard massive amounts of precious resources to natural waste reservoirs; phosphorus (P) is a good example of this. In this article, substance flow analysis is employed to quantify and explore the temporal evolution of China's P consumption in main metabolic nodes from 1984 to 2008, and then the environmental implications for P flows into both surface waters and natural soil are investigated. Results show that the metabolic nodes of human life and animal husbandry have demanded increasingly more P inputs, while disseminating more and more P wastes, with the waste recycling ratios of these processes dropping, respectively, from 65.9% and 66.1% in 1984 to 50.7% and 40.6% by 2008. These change traits were closely related to national polices including the Household Contract Responsibility System and the Shopping Basket Program, as well as the policy vacuum existing between China's agricultural and environmental administration departments. To achieve high crop yield, increasingly more inorganic P fertilizers have been utilized in China, but their use efficiency has decreased by 46.3%. From 2003 to 2008, the total P load into surface waters was stabilized at about 900.0 kilotons (kt), while the total P load into natural soil increased by more than 3.8 times to 3,131.3 kt P in 2008. City life and the intensive breeding of crops are identified as the main targets for further pollution control and nutrient recycling in China. Some suggestions for achieving environmentally sound practices and resource sustainability in China are proposed at the end of this article.
Fatigue after myocardial infarction – a two‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Alsén Pia , Brink Eva
Published: March 2013

Aims and objectives

To investigate changes in self‐reported fatigue and depression from four months to two years following a myocardial infarction, as well as to explore gender differences, identify the incidence of fatigue without coexisting depression and finally predict health‐related quality of life at a two‐year follow‐up.

Background

Depression and fatigue are associated with decreased health‐related quality of life after myocardial infarction. Although there is a close relationship between fatigue and depression, it has been shown that symptoms of fatigue can occur without coexisting depression.

Design

Quantitative and longitudinal design.

Methods

Participants (n = 155) were asked to complete the following questionnaires: the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory‐20 (MFI‐20) and the Short Form Survey (SF‐36) following myocardial infarction (after four months and two years). Descriptive statistics, paired t‐tests and multiple regressions were carried out.

Results

In the entire group, self‐reported fatigue had decreased from four months to two years after myocardial infarction. After two years, 18% of respondents reported depression together with fatigue and 30% reported fatigued without depression. Women scored higher than men on the fatigue dimensions reduced activity, reduced motivation and mental fatigue. Moreover, the physical dimension of health‐related quality of life two years after myocardial infarction was predicted by experienced general fatigue at four months.

Conclusion

Fatigue with or without coexisting possible/probable depression remains as a significant symptom two years after myocardial infarction in nearly half of the entire group.

Relevance to clinical practice

Fatigue is a problem following myocardial infarction. Therefore, systematic screening and early identification of patients experiencing symptoms of depression and fatigue after myocardial infarction are important for suitable care planning. In contemporary coronary care, strategies aimed at relieving fatigue should be developed.
Dementia behavioural and psychiatric symptoms: effect on caregiver's sleep
Authors: Simpson Cherie , Carter Patricia
Published: March 2013

Aims and objectives

To examine caregiver sleep quality, especially in relation to the daytime and night‐time behaviours and psychological symptoms exhibited by persons with dementias.

Background

Caregivers of persons with dementias experience poorer sleep in comparison with noncaregivers, and poor sleep is related to negative health outcomes. The reasons for caregivers' poor sleep are complex, and it is known that the night‐time behaviours of the persons with dementia contribute to caregiver sleep disruption. However, the frequency of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia has hitherto not been sufficiently explored as a contributing factor to poor caregiver sleep.

Design

A nonexperimental cross‐sectional design.

Methods

Eighty caregivers completed questionnaires on the frequency of behavioural and psychological symptoms of the persons with dementia, the Dementia Severity Rating Scale, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale.

Results

Poor sleep was reported with awakenings by the persons with dementia occurring for more than half of the caregivers. The frequency of behaviours and symptoms did not make a unique contribution to the variance of caregivers' global sleep. The frequency of behaviours, and specifically of agitation and apathy, contributed to the variance in subjective sleep quality, as defined by the caregivers' appraisal of their sleep.

Conclusions

The findings demonstrate the relationship between (1) daytime and night‐time behaviours of persons with dementias and (2) their caregivers' sleep quality and emphasise the complexity of the factors that contribute to caregiver sleep quality.

Relevance to clinical practice

These findings suggest that nurses should be cognizant of the relationship between daytime behaviours of the persons with dementia and the caregivers' appraisal of their sleep, realising that appraising one's sleep as poor can be a contributing factor to perpetuating sleep problems. Interventions aimed at helping the caregiver manage the persons with dementia's agitation or the caregiver's emotional response to persons with dementia apathy may improve caregivers' perception of their sleep.
Relationship of trauma centre characteristics and patient outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Kim Young‐Ju
Published: March 2013

Aims and objectives

To systematically review the relationship of trauma centre characteristics and trauma patient outcomes.

Background

Numerous studies have documented the impact of trauma centre level, trauma centre verification, volume per centre and per surgeon or resource availability on outcomes among trauma patients. However, there continues to be debated about whether trauma care is comparable by these trauma centre characteristics.

Design

Systematic review.

Methods

Eligible studies were identified via electronic database searches, footnote chasing and contact with clinical experts. Quality of selected studies was assessed in terms of internal and external validity using 14 questions. Two reviewers independently examined titles, abstracts and whether each met the predefined criteria.

Results

A total of 50 studies which met criteria were selected. Ten of 17 articles showed that level I trauma centres had better patient outcomes than level II centres. The achievement of trauma centre verification by American College of Surgeons or State was beneficial to decreasing mortality and length of stay in 9 of 11 studies. High trauma admission volume was beneficial in 8 of 16 studies. The volume per trauma surgeon did not contribute to better patient outcomes in 4 of 5 studies. The availability of in‐house trauma surgeon was beneficial to lower mortality and shorter length of stay in only 2 of 9 studies.

Conclusion

This review supports that achieving the trauma centre verification by American College of Surgeons or State is definitely beneficial to patient outcomes. However, the benefit of level I centres compared with level II centres, and volume of annual trauma patients to outcomes is still debating. Further prospective study examining this relationship is required.

Relevance to clinical practice

Understanding which characteristics of trauma centre provides the best prospect for improved outcomes depending on patient need and resource availability would allow further appreciation of the processes that foster such enhancement.
A REVIEW OF BUBBLES AND CRASHES IN EXPERIMENTAL ASSET MARKETS
Authors: Palan Stefan
Published: March 2013

This paper discusses the literature on bubbles and crashes in the most commonly used experimental asset market design, introduced by Smith et al. It documents the main findings based on the results from 41 published papers, 3 book chapters and 20 working papers.
Professionals' Contribution to the Legislative Process: Between Self, Client, and the Public
Authors: Hofri‐Winogradow Adam S.
Published: March 2013

How may professionals be made to contribute to legislative processes so that their expertise redounds to the public interest, despite the legislative product being likely to have a negative impact on their clients' wealth? Drawing on a case study of the legislative process that gave birth to Israel's recent (2002–2008) trusts taxation regime, based on five years of participant observation among the trust professional community, I find that to obtain the benefit of private‐sector professionals' expertise under such circumstances, government should have legislation drafted in a dispassionate, exclusive environment of experts rather than in the political arena; it should build professionals' trust in government by adopting an explicitly collegial approach; it should focus reform efforts on elements of the existing law so clearly inequitable as to make a refusal to contribute difficult to justify; and take care that the new regime creates a compliance practice lucrative enough to compensate for any loss to professionals consequent on its enactment. Once professionals' interests are suitably safeguarded, their loyalty to clients appears surprisingly brittle and government can successfully combine with them in the public interest.
AaORA, a trichome‐specific AP2/ERF transcription factor of Artemisia annua, is a positive regulator in the artemisinin biosynthetic pathway and in disease resistance to Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Lu Xu , Zhang Ling , Zhang Fangyuan , Jiang Weimin , Shen Qian , Zhang Lida , Lv Zongyou , Wang Guofeng , Tang Kexuan
Published: March 2013

Six transcription factors of APETALA2/ethylene‐response factor (AP2/ERF) family were cloned and analyzed in Artemisia annua. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐Q‐PCR) showed that AaORA exhibited similar expression patterns to those of amorpha‐4,11‐diene synthase gene (ADS), cytochrome P450‐dependent hydroxylase gene (CYP71AV1) and double bond reductase 2 gene (DBR2) in different tissues of A. annua.

AaORA is a trichome‐specific transcription factor, which is expressed in both glandular secretory trichomes (GSTs) and nonglandular T‐shaped trichomes (TSTs) of A. annua. The result of subcellular localization shows that AaORA is targeted to the nuclei and the cytoplasm.

Overexpression and RNA interference (RNAi) of AaORA in A. annua regulated, positively and significantly, the expression levels of ADS, CYP71AV1, DBR2 and AaERF1. The up‐regulated or down‐regulated expression levels of these genes resulted in a significant increase or decrease in artemisinin and dihydroartemisinic acid. The results demonstrate that AaORA is a positive regulator in the biosynthesis of artemisinin.

Overexpression of AaORA in Arabidopsis thaliana increased greatly the transcript levels of the defense marker genes PLANT DEFENSIN1.2 (PDF1.2), HEVEIN‐LIKE PROTEIN (HEL) and BASIC CHITINASE (B‐CHI). After inoculation with Botrytis cinerea, the phenotypes of AaORA overexpression in A. thaliana and AaORA RNAi in A. annua demonstrate that AaORA is a positive regulator of disease resistance to B. cinerea.
Left femoral vein is a better choice for cannulation in children: a computed tomography study
Authors: Ozbek Seda , Aydin Bahattin K. , Apiliogullari Seza , Kara Inci , Erol Cengiz , Ciftci Ilhan , Duman Ates , Celik Jale B.
Published: March 2013

Background

Central venous catheters are often required in emergency rooms and intensive care and/or those undergoing major surgical procedures. In this study, we aimed to gain a better understanding of the anatomy of the femoral vessel in relation to central venous cannulation.

Methods

The right and left (total of 180) femoral veins (FVs) of 90 consecutive pediatric patients were retrospectively evaluated using computed tomography images. Patients were divided into two groups according to their age: group 1, patients up to 9 years of age; and group 2, patients between 9 and 16 years of age.

Results

The position and overlap of femoral artery (FA) to FV are significantly different between the left and right sides in both groups (P = 0.001). The left FV was most commonly located medial to the FA. However, the right FV was most commonly located posterior‐medial to the FA. The incidence of overlap of the FA over the FV was significantly lower at the left side in both groups.

Conclusion

The incidence of overlap of the FA over the FV was significantly lower at the left side in pediatric patients. This finding was similar between the patients aged 2–8 years and those aged 9–16 years and may have significant clinical implications. Guiding clinicians to select the left FV of children for cannulation may result in lower arterial puncture rates while accessing the central vein.
Regression Model for Estimating Inactivation of Microbial Aerosols by Solar Radiation
Authors: Ben‐David Avishai , Sagripanti Jose‐Luis
Published: February 2013

The inactivation of pathogenic aerosols by solar radiation is relevant to public health and biodefense. We investigated whether a relatively simple method to calculate solar diffuse and total irradiances could be developed and used in environmental photobiology estimations instead of complex atmospheric radiative transfer computer programs. The second‐order regression model that we developed reproduced 13 radiation quantities calculated for equinoxes and solstices at 35° latitude with a computer‐intensive and rather complex atmospheric radiative transfer program (MODTRAN) with a mean error <6% (2% for most radiation quantities). Extending the application of the regression model from a reference latitude and date (chosen as 35° latitude for 21 March) to different latitudes and days of the year was accomplished with variable success: usually with a mean error <15% (but as high as 150% for some combination of latitudes and days of year). This accuracy of the methodology proposed here compares favorably to photobiological experiments where the microbial survival is usually measured with an accuracy no better than ±0.5 log10 units. The approach and equations presented in this study should assist in estimating the maximum time during which microbial pathogens remain infectious after accidental or intentional aerosolization in open environments.
Ischemia from Extrinsic Compression of the Brachial Artery by a Stent in the Venous Outflow of a Brachio‐Basilic Arterio‐Venous Graft
Authors: Sequeira Adrian , Akkus Nuri I , Beedupalli Jagan , Shokouh‐Amiri Hosein , Smith Thomas , Masri Kamal , Newell Douglas , Speir Dale , Abreo Kenneth
Published: February 2013

Distal artery embolization is a well‐known complication after mechanical thrombectomy, manifesting as limb ischemia. We describe a case of ischemia that developed after mechanical thrombectomy and stent placement in the venous anastomosis of a brachio‐ basilic arterio‐venous graft. Subsequent investigations revealed that the stent had extrinsically compressed the adjacent brachial artery. Although balloon angioplasty of the artery initially restored flow, the patient needed surgical removal of the graft and stent to prevent persistent ischemia.
Screening of patients with diabetes mellitus for tuberculosis in India
Authors:   India Diabetes Mellitus – Tuberculosis Study Group
Published: March 2013

Objective

To assess the feasibility, results and challenges of screening patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) for tuberculosis (TB) within the healthcare setting of six DM clinics in tertiary hospitals across India.

Method

Agreement on how to screen, monitor and record the screening was reached in October 2011 at a national stakeholders' meeting, and training was carried out for staff in the six tertiary care facilities in December 2011. Implementation started in the first quarter of 2012, and we report on activities up to 30th September 2012. Patients with DM were screened for TB on each clinic attendance using a symptom‐based enquiry, and those with positive symptoms were referred for TB investigations.

Results

In the three quarters, 26% of 7218, 52% of 12237 and 48% of 11691 patients with DM were screened for TB. A total of 254 patients were identified with TB, of whom 46% had smear‐positive pulmonary disease. There were 18 patients newly diagnosed with TB as a result of screening and referral, with the remainder being patients already diagnosed from elsewhere. TB case rates per 100 000 patients attending the DM clinic each quarter were 859, 956 and 642. Almost 90% of patients with TB were recorded as starting or being on anti‐TB treatment. Major implementation challenges related to human resources and recording systems.

Conclusion

In India, it is feasible to screen patients with DM for TB resulting in high rates of TB detection. More attention to detail, human resource requirements and electronic medical records are needed to improve performance.