bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
'NosingAround' the human skin:What information is concealed in skin odour?
Authors: Kippenberger Stefan , Havlíček Jan , Bernd August , Thaçi Diamant , Kaufmann Roland , Meissner Markus
Published: May 2012

In today′s world, natural body odour is mostly considered as being unpleasant and combated by intensive cleansing, deodorants and perfumes. However, there is evidence that volatile body compounds provide the recipient with important information. Here, we present the chemical identity of odorous compounds derived from odourless precursors within sweat and sebum. Moreover, distinct volatile markers may be relevant for the clinical diagnosis of disease. Interestingly, ageing seems to correlate with the appearance of specific compounds that convey the so‐called old man smell. Finally, it is discussed if human skin odour has the quality to act as pheromone transmitting information between individuals in terms of major histocompatibility complex type or reproductive status.
The bivariate distribution characteristics of spatial structure in natural Korean pine broad‐leaved forest
Authors: Li Yuanfa , Hui Gangying , Zhao Zhonghua , Hu Yanbo
Published: May 2012

Aims

Spatial structure is important in describing forest stand structure and change. We present a new method for the quantitative analysis of forest spatial structure based on the relationship of nearest neighbour tree groups.

Location

Six hundred m a.s.l., Dongdapo Natural Reserve, Jiaohe, Jilin Province, China

Methods

Six plots in three common stand types of natural Korean pine broad‐leaved forest in northeast China were used to validate the method. Each plot measured 100 × 100 m, and all trees with DBH ≥5 cm were marked and located using a Total Station. We calculated bivariate distribution of the structural parameters, uniform angle index, mingling and dominance using Winkelmass and Excel software.

Results

Most trees in the forest were highly mixed by species and randomly distributed. Individuals with high DBH values were typically surrounded by other species; trees within stochastic distribution patterns were usually surrounded by different species; and medium‐sized trees were randomly distributed.

Conclusions

The bivariate distribution of structural parameters can provide more direct and useful information about the heterogeneity of spatial structure than can univariate distributions or other conventional stand descriptors. This could be helpful for selective thinning in continuous cover forest management and in modelling and restoring forests.
Short‐term succession of aquatic plant species richness along ecosystem productivity and dispersal gradients in shallow lakes
Authors: Arthaud F. , Vallod D. , Robin J. , Wezel A. , Bornette G.
Published: May 2012

Questions

The highest species richness is usually expected at an intermediate stage of development since the last major disturbance event, but some studies have shown that ecosystem productivity and dispersal may modify this pattern, suggesting the need for further studies on the effects of productivity and dispersal on the dynamics of species richness through succession. In this study, we analysed aquatic plant species richness in relation to (1) succession stage, measured as numbers of years since the last disturbance that affected the ecosystems; (2) lake productivity, measured as the chlorophyll a concentration; and (3) connectivity to similar nearby ecosystems, a proxy for the potential input of diaspores.

Location

Shallow lakes of the Dombes region, France.

Methods

Every 5–7 yr these shallow lakes are emptied and left to dry out for 1 yr. These drought disturbances lead to complete destruction of the submerged aquatic plant communities. Sixty lakes arranged along a gradient of productivity were selected. The probability of diaspore input was considered to increase from upstream to downstream, as lakes are organized in hydrologically connected networks via ditches, through which the downstream lakes receive water from the upstream lakes. For each lake, the aquatic plant species richness (from systematic summer vegetation sampling), time since the last disturbance (last summer drying), productivity (estimated as chlorophyll a concentration) and probability of diaspore input (assessed from position in the network) were recorded.

Results

The aquatic plant species richness decreased with the time since the last disturbance for all of the lakes, but there was a significant interaction with the chlorophyll a concentration and position of the lake in the network. At the lowest ecosystem productivities, the relationship between successional stage and species richness was hump‐shaped, whereas the species richness decreased with increasing time since the last disturbance when productivity increased. The lake's position in the network did not influence species richness during the first 2 yr after disturbance, but from year 3 and thereafter, lakes connected to high numbers of upstream lakes consistently exhibited decreased richness, contradicting the expected trend of increasing species richness with increasing diaspore inputs.

Conclusions

This study indicates that both ecosystem productivity and connectivity strongly affected the relationship between aquatic plant species richness and succession, and that these factors should be taken into account in further developments of the intermediate disturbance hypothesis.
The relationship between seven health practices and oral health status in community‐dwelling elderly Thai
Authors: Samnieng Patcharaphol , Ueno Masayuki , Zaitsu Takashi , Shinada Kayoko , Wright Fredrick A.C. , Kawaguchi Yoko
Published: May 2012

Gerodontology 2012; doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2012.00672.x

The relationship between seven health practices and oral health status in community‐dwelling elderly Thai

Objective:  This study aims to analyse the relationship between seven health practices, oral health behaviors, and oral health status in community dwelling elderly Thai.

Materials and methods:  The subjects were 612 elderly people (mean age = 68.8 ± 5.9 years). Questionnaires survey about sociodemographics, self‐reported seven health practices and oral health behaviors were conducted by trained interviewers. Oral examinations investigated the number of teeth present, decayed teeth, periodontal status and functional tooth units (FTUs). Oral malodor was assessed by Organoleptic Test, and unstimulated saliva was collected for 5 min.

Results:  Five health practices (smoking, drinking, physical activity, breakfast and weight maintenance) were significantly related with oral health behaviors. ancova analysis demonstrated the following significant associations: (i) smoking behavior with number of teeth present, number of FTUs, decayed teeth, periodontal disease, oral malodor and salivary flow rate, (ii) drinking alcohol behavior with number of teeth present, number of FTUs, periodontal disease, oral malodor and salivary flow rate, (iii) eating breakfast behavior with periodontal disease, oral malodor and salivary flow rate, (iv) eating between‐meal snack with number of teeth present, number of FTUs, decayed teeth and periodontal disease, (v) maintaining weight with number of teeth present, number of FTUs, periodontal disease and oral malodor, (vi) sleeping with number of teeth present, number of FTUs, periodontal disease, oral malodor and salivary flow rate, (vii) physical activity with periodontal disease and salivary flow rate.

Conclusion:  Good health practices were related with good oral health behaviors. Moreover, general health practices were associated with the clinical oral health status such as number of teeth present, decayed teeth, FTUs, periodontal disease, oral malodor and salivary flow rate. The elderly with good general health practices were considered to have good oral health status. Improving general health habits are suggested to lead to better oral health for the elderly, and vice versa.
Oral lesions in elderly patients of a community in Brazilian Northeast
Authors: Saintrain Maria V.L. , Almeida Caroline B. , Naruse Tábata M.O. , Gonçalves Vanessa P.
Published: May 2012

Objective

To investigate the oral soft‐tissue injuries in people aged 60 or older.

Methods

Cross‐sectional research conducted with 262 elders aged 60–93 years (mean 69.84, SD ± 6.212) from the Dende community in Northeast, Brazil. Data were collected through an identification questionnaire and the Community Indicator in Oral Health. Data were computed by the Software SPSS, version 15.

Results

There was a predominance of female gender (64.1%), retired, low schooling and income of up to one minimum wage. It was detected a prevalence of soft‐tissue injuries in 38.4% (n = 101) of the elders, distributed as follows: red spots 60(57.7%), blisters 20(19.2%), lesions and/or wound 16(15.4%), and white spot 8(7.7%). Among the elders, 40(15.3%) smoked and 20(7.6%) used alcohol. It was verified a statistical association between injuries and using prosthesis (p = 0.039), medicine (p = 0.023) and calculus (p = 0.016).

Conclusion

The oral health of this population is precarious, and there is a high prevalence of oral lesions.
Hyaluronic acid three‐dimensional scaffold for surgical revision of retracting scars: a human experimental study
Authors: Faga Angela , Nicoletti Giovanni , Brenta Federica , Scevola Silvia , Abatangelo Giovanni , Brun Paola
Published: May 2012

An observational study was carried out at the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Unit of the University of Pavia – Salvatore Maugeri Research and Care Institute, Pavia, Italy, to assess the clinical and histological long‐term outcomes of autologous skin grafting of fresh surgical wounds following previous repair with a hyaluronic acid three‐dimensional scaffold (Hyalomatrix®). Eleven fresh wounds from surgical release of retracted scars were enrolled in this study. A stable skin‐like tissue cover was observed in all of the treated wounds in an average 1 month's time; at the end of this study, after an average of 12 months' time, all of the reconstructed areas were pliable and stable, although an average retraction rate of 51·62% was showed. Histological observation and immunohistochemical analysis displayed integration of the graft within the surrounding tissues. A regenerated dermis with an extracellular matrix rich in type I collagen and elastic fibres and with reduced type III collagen rate was observed. The epidermis and dermoepidermal junction featured a normal appearance with well‐structured dermal papillae, too. Although the histological features would suggest regeneration of a skin‐like tissue, with a good dermis and no signs of scarring, the clinical problem of secondary contracture is still unsolved.
Effect of opium dependency on secondary intention wound healing in a rat model: an experimental study
Authors: Vahedian Jalal , Mirshekari Tooraj‐Reza , Nabavizadeh Fatemeh
Published: May 2012

Opium dependency is a social and health problem in some middle eastern countries like Iran. Many of these people may require surgery. This study investigates the effects of opium dependency on histological parameters of secondary intention wound healing in rat. A full‐thickness wound (2 × 2 cm in diameters) was created on the dorsum of two groups of rats, a normal control group and a second group of rat depended to opium (Badawy's method). Several times during 14 days postwounding, the wound was excised with peripheral margins of normal skin and was evaluated for cellular population, reepithelialisation and revascularisation. Results are presented as the mean ± standard error. Data were compared by an unpaired t‐test or analysis of variance. Histological examination of the wound tissue showed evidence of increased population of fibroblasts, decreased recruitment of neutrophile and plateau of macrophage cells in opium depended animals comparing with control group. In the depended animals, reepithelialisation was seen to be enhanced significantly, while prohibiting progression of revascularisation. This study shows that opium dependency enhances reepitheliazation as well as tissue recruitment of fibroblasts; thereby probable enhancement of secondary intention wound healing.
Workplace relationships and the innovative behaviour of nursing employees: a social exchange perspective
Authors: Xerri Matthew
Published: May 2012

This research examines the impact of two organisational factors on the innovative behaviour of nurses. More specifically, this research applies the dimensions of social exchange theory as a lens to develop an understanding into the mediating effect of perceived organisational support on the relationship between leader–member exchange and the innovative behaviour of nursing employees. This study uses a mixed‐methods approach, including a survey in which 104 nurses responded with useable results and semi‐structured interviews with 12 nursing unit managers (nursing supervisors). The findings confirm that perceived organisational support mediates the relationship between leader–member exchange and the innovative behaviour of nursing employees. This research adds to the current body of literature by providing insight into the impact of workplace relationships upon the individual innovativeness of nurses. In summary, this research provides new information for management seeking to develop an environment that fosters the innovative behaviour of employees.
EFFECT OF DAIRY PROTEIN BLENDS ON TEXTURE OF HIGH PROTEIN BARS
Authors: IMTIAZ S. RIZANA , KUHN‐SHERLOCK BARBARA , CAMPBELL MONICA
Published: May 2012

A number of studies have focused on bar hardening of protein bars. The instrumental texture analyzer measurement of peak force is known to measure bar hardness or firmness. However, to understand overall bar texture, another important texture dimension, crumbliness/cohesiveness, needs to be considered. This study was based on three functionally modified dairy proteins, including one whey protein concentrate and two milk protein concentrates. A mixture design was used to study the synergistic effects of these three proteins on bar texture. Instrumental texture parameters that correlated with sensory texture were developed. Peak force (Force 1) was correlated with firmness (being opposite of softness) dimension, and maximum negative force (Force 2) was correlated with cohesiveness (being opposite of crumbliness). Mathematical models with R2 > 90% were developed to optimize the texture over a 12‐month storage period, with storage at 20C, for bars using one or more of the three proteins.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Protein bar manufacturers will be able to select the type of dairy protein and the level of the proteins in a blend required to achieve desired texture in bars based on the findings of this study. The whey protein concentrate, used in this study, proved to be important to minimize firmness over time. The milk protein concentrates in this study performed differently from each other in bars due to the different modifications made during the manufacture of these ingredients. This study has also shown the importance of the crumbliness/cohesiveness texture dimension and investigated a method to quantify this using instrumental texture analysis. The mixture design approach used in this study could be applied to a bar manufacturer's specific formulation to develop a predictive model that will help them adjust key ingredient levels to manipulate the texture in bars.
EFFECT OF FILL LEVEL IN MIXER VISCOMETRY
Authors: SULAIMAN RABIHA , DOLAN KIRK D. , STEFFE JAMES F.
Published: May 2012

The effects of viscometer fluid level on the consistency coefficient (K) and flow behavior index (n) were evaluated using the torque curve method. Experiments with four levels of fill (multiples of the impeller height) with a Haake pitched paddle mixer impeller were conducted. Newtonian fluids and non‐Newtonian fluids were used to determine thek′,k″,Kandnvalues of each sample at different fill levels while keeping the impeller Reynolds number in the laminar flow range. This is the first quantitative study showing that mixer constant value (k′) and rheological properties (especially theKvalue) obtained from mixer viscometry are a function of fluid fill level. The recommended fluid fill level based on the matching viscosity method is 1.5 times the height of mixer impeller.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The study is useful in mixer viscometry applications aimed at establishing engineering design data and for quality control testing of materials having large particulates, settling problems and phase separation.
PREDICTION OF EXTENSOGRAPH PROPERTIES OF WHEAT‐FLOUR DOUGH: ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORKS AND A GENETIC ALGORITHM APPROACH
Authors: ABBASI HAJAR , ARDABILI SEYYED MAHDI SEYEDAIN , EMAM‐DJOMEH ZAHRA , MOHAMMADIFAR MOHAMMAD AMIN , ZEKRI MARYAM , AGHAGHOLIZADEH ROYA
Published: May 2012

Wheat‐flour dough is a viscoelastic material with nonlinear rheological behavior. Extensograph is a useful system for dough rheological measurement. Our purpose in this research was to apply soft computation tools for predicting the extensograph properties of dough from several physicochemical properties of flour. This study used the resulting model to suggest modifications of processing conditions for reducing economic loss and minimizing product quality deterioration. A generalized feed‐forward artificial neural network (ANN) with a back‐propagation learning algorithm was employed to estimate the extensograph properties of dough. Trial and error and genetic algorithm (GA) were applied in the training phase for developing an ANN with an optimized structure. Developed ANN using GA has excellent potential for predicting the extensograph properties of dough. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to explore the ability of inputs in predicting the extensograph properties of dough. Results showed gluten index was the most sensitive input in dough extensograph characterizations.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Extensograph is a suitable instrument for measuring the stretching properties of dough to make reliable statements about the baking behavior of the wheat‐flour dough in practical industrial applications and in research. Rheological measurements of each batch in the production line are very useful and make online and in‐time process adjustments possible, but this is usually impractical in an industrial setting. Therefore, accurate prediction of dough rheology could provide many benefits to the baking industry for satisfying consumer demands. In the current study, genetic algorithm‐neural network approach was applied to predict extensograph properties of dough as affected by physicochemical properties of flour. In comparison with trial and error, genetic algorithm can determine an artificial neural network's topology and inputs in less time with excellent performance in prediction. According to the results of sensitivity analyses, of the seven investigated inputs, changes in gluten index have the most effect on estimating extensograph properties of dough.
EFFECT OF MILK FAT, KEFIR GRAIN INOCULUM AND STORAGE TIME ON THE FLOW PROPERTIES AND MICROBIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF KEFIR
Authors: MAGRA TAXIARHOULA I. , ANTONIOU KLIO D. , PSOMAS EVDOXIOS I.
Published: May 2012

The flow behavior, pH and the main microbial populations of kefir, produced from commercial pasteurized and homogenized bovine milk with fat contents of 0, 1.5 or 3.5% (w/w) and the addition of 1, 3 or 7% (w/w) of kefir grains, were examined after storage for 0, 7 and 14 days at 4C. Increasing the kefir grain inoculum or the storage time of the final product resulted in pH reduction. The viscosity of kefir increased as the fat content of the milk increased, whereas it was reduced during storage for 14 days. Samples prepared with 7% kefir grains exhibited greater viscosity values when compared with samples prepared with 1 and 3%. The increase of kefir grain content resulted in a reduction of lactococci and an increase of yeasts, whereas increasing storage time of kefir resulted in population reduction for lactococci and lactobacilli and to an increase of yeasts.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Kefir is a dairy product with noticeable nutritional and health‐related attributes increasing its market potential in today's health‐oriented food market. The quality of the product, its standardization and the parameters affecting it is of scientific and commercial interest. The present study investigates the effect of milk fat content, kefir grain inoculum and storage time on the microbial populations, the pH and especially the rheological properties of the product. A prototype pneumatic tube rheometer was used for the study of the rheological properties of kefir and their development during fermentation and storage.
Poststroke Infections are an Independent Risk Factor for Poor Functional Outcome after Three-months in Thrombolysed Stroke Patients
Authors: Rocco Andrea , Fam Geraldine , Sykora Marek , Diedler Jennifer , Nagel Simon , Ringleb Peter
Published: May 2012

Background

Infections are common complications in patients with acute ischemic stroke; however, the pathophysiology of the stroke-induced immunodepression is still under debate. Although it has been shown that increased mortality and longer hospital stay are associated with the presence of poststroke infections, it remains unclear if early poststroke infections occurring in the first seven-days have an effect on the overall functional outcome.

Aims

Aim of our study was to identify the frequency of poststroke infections in thrombolysed stroke patients and to analyze their effect on the outcome after three-months. Methods From 1998 to 2011, all patients in our institution undergoing thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke were included into a prospective database. Baseline variables, clinical, radiographic, and laboratory data were collected prospectively. Outcome measures included symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage per European-Australasian Acute Stroke Study II criteria, mortality, and modified Rankin Scale at three-months. Logistic regression models were used to identify independent predictors for poor outcome where appropriate.

Results

One thousand sixteen patients were included; of them, 36·3% had an infection during the first week. Pneumonia (9·6%) and urinary tract infections (5·4%) were most frequent. Severity of stroke ( P < 0·0001), infarct size ( P < 0·0001), atrial fibrillation ( P = 0·005), and cardio embolic cause of stroke ( P < 0·0001) were associated with infections. Age (odds ratio 1·089, 95% confidence interval 1·064–1·115, P < 0·0001), severity of stroke (odds ratio 1·111, 95% confidence interval 1·073–1·149; P < 0·0001) history of diabetes (odds ratio 0·555. 95% confidence interval 0·357–0·864; P = 0·009), infarct size (odds ratio 4·256 95% confidence interval 2·697–6·745; P < 0·0001), infections (odds ratio 1·548, 95% confidence interval 1·008–2·376; P = 0·046), and symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage were independent predictors for poor outcome after three-months. Conclusions In our cohort of thrombolysed stroke patients, poststroke infections were frequent in patients with severe cardio embolic stroke, a large infarct, and a longer hospital stay; those patients have a higher risk of infection and a poorer functional outcome after three-months. This risk increases after occurrence of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage. Prevention of infection with antibiotic therapy or other prophylactic treatment could potentially lead to a better functional outcome and further randomized studies on this aspect are needed.
Interventions to Increase Enrollment in a Large Multicenter Phase 3 Trial of Carotid Stenting Vs. Endarterectomy
Authors: Longbottom Mary E. , Roberts Jamie N. , Tom MeeLee , Hughes Susan E. , Howard Virginia J. , Sheffet Alice J. , Meschia James F. , Brott Thomas G. ,   for the CREST Investigators
Published: May 2012

Background

Randomized clinical trials often encounter slow enrollment. Failing to meet sample size requirements has scientific, financial, and ethical implications.

Aims

We report interventions used to accelerate recruitment in a large multicenter clinical trial that was not meeting prespecified enrollment commitments.

Methods

The Carotid Revascularization Endarterectomy vs. Stenting Trial began randomization in December 2000. To accelerate enrollment, multiple recruitment tactics were initiated, which included expanding the number of sites, hiring a recruitment director (May 2003), broadening eligibility criteria (April 2005), branding with a study logo, Web site, and recruitment materials, increasing site visits by study leadership, sending e-mails to the site teams after every enrollment, distributing electronic newsletters, and implementing investigator and coordinator conferences.

Results

From December 2000 through May 2003, 14 sites became active (54 patients randomized), from June 2003 through April 2005, 44 sites were added (404 patients randomized), and from May 2005 through July 2008, 54 sites were added (2044 patients randomized). During these time intervals, the number of patients enrolled per site per year was 1.5, 3.6, and 5.6. For the single years 2004 to 2008, the mean monthly randomization rates per year were 19.7, 38.1, 56.4, 53.0, and 54.7 (annualized), respectively. Enrollment was highest after recruitment tactics were implemented: 677 patients in 2006, 636 in 2007, and 657 in 2008 (annualized). The prespecified sample size of 2502 patients, 47% asymptomatic, was accomplished on July 2008.

Conclusions

Aggressive recruitment tactics and investment in a full-time recruitment director who can lead implementation may be effective in accelerating recruitment in multicenter trials.
Predictors of Poststroke Driving or Riding in Indian Stroke Patients (POINT Study)
Authors: Bose Shiti , Kaur Paramdeep , Dhillon Sudeepa , Raju Rinu Susan , Pandian Jeyaraj D.
Published: May 2012

Background

There is no information regarding the proportion of stroke patients who drive or ride after a stroke from developing countries.

Aim

We aimed to study the predictors of poststroke driving or riding and its impact on social life in Indian patients. Methods This study was done in the stroke and neurology clinics of Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, from May 1, 2008 to May 31, 2010. Patients were recruited if they had completed ≥1-year follow-up. Subjects were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Stroke outcome was assessed by using the modified Rankin scale. Outcome was classified as good (modified Rankin scale ≤2) and poor (modified Rankin scale >2).

Results

Two hundred and one patients were interviewed. Mean age was 58·0 ± 13·4 years (median 59 years, range 17–85 years), 139 (69·2%) were men. The mean duration of follow-up was 37·4 ± 29·2 months (range 19–210 months). Out of 201 patients, 132 (65·7%) drove or rode before stroke and among them only 54 (40·9%) returned to driving or riding after stroke [men 53 (98·1%)]. Among the 78 who did not return to driving or riding, 51 (65·4%) had an impact on social life. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the predictors of inability to drive were lower education (odds ratio 0·32, confidence interval 0·12–0·89, P = 0·03), unemployment (odds ratio 4·59, confidence interval 1·67–12·6, P = 0·003), and poor outcome (odds ratio 3·97, confidence interval 1·06–14·8, P = 0·04).

Conclusions

Only 40·9% of the patients returned to driving or riding. Lower education, unemployment, and poor recovery were the predictors of inability to drive or ride. Inability to drive had a major impact in their social life.
Palliative radiation therapy in a dog with malignant trichoepithelioma
Authors: Hoshino Y , Mori T , Sakai H , Murakami M , Maruo K
Published: May 2012

An 11‐year‐old male Bearded Collie was brought to the Gifu University Animal Medical Centre with a skin mass on the lateral right thigh. Physical examination revealed a 30 × 65‐mm oval mass with an alopecic and ulcerated surface. Histopathology of the surgically excised sample confirmed malignant trichoepithelioma. Five months after the surgery, the dog experienced lumbar pain resulting from metastasis to the lumbar vertebrae. Radiation therapy (RT) was performed and it alleviated the lumbar pain. Nine months after the surgery, multiple skin metastases were identified. RT was performed at each occurrence, which reduced the size of each tumour and resulted in a partial response; however, systemic metastasis occurred and the dog died 17 months after the initial surgery. Canine malignant trichoepithelioma is a rare tumour, so an effective treatment has not been determined. Data from our case study indicate that RT has potential for pain control of primary and metastatic malignant trichoepithelioma.
Evaluation of serovar‐independent ELISA antigens of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae in pigs, following experimental challenge with A. pleuropneumoniae, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and Pasteurella multocida
Authors: Eamens GJ , Gonsalves JR , Whittington A‐M , Turner B
Published: May 2012

Objective  To compare the sensitivity and specificity of six serological enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) based on serovar‐independent antigens of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (App) and investigate cross‐reactivity in disease‐free pigs challenged with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and Pasteurella multocida.

Design  Five experimental pig trials using direct challenge with App serovars 1, 7 or 15 or direct challenge with M. hyopneumoniae and/or various dose rates of P. multocida.

Procedure  A 39‐kDa outer membrane protein antigen and five recombinant antigens from the apxIVA gene of App were evaluated. The latter were derived from the ApxIVA N‐terminus (ApxIVA‐N, ApxIVA‐NP, ApxIVA‐NPS) or C‐terminus (ApxIVA‐C, ApxIVA‐CP). Pigs were sampled after challenge and clinical and necropsy findings evaluated.

Results  The 39‐kDa ELISA had high sensitivity but lacked specificity, with significantly increased cross‐reactivity following P. multocida challenge. ELISAs based on ApxIVA N‐terminus antigens were significantly more sensitive than C‐terminus antigens for the detection of App‐induced disease. Although ApxIVA‐N and ApxIVA‐NP ELISAs had increased reactivity following P. multocida challenge, they retained high specificity for App‐induced disease (90–93%). Affinity purified ApxIVA‐NP antigen had marginally better specificity than ApxIVA‐N, without reduced sensitivity. Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae did not affect serological cross‐reactivity. In disease‐free pigs, the specificity of the ApxIVA‐NPS ELISA may be adversely affected by nasal carriage of apparently low‐virulence App strains.

Conclusions  ApxIVA‐N‐based ELISAs can be used for evaluating App status in commercial herds, but some appear limited by high carriage rates of low‐virulence App. The 39‐kDa antigen is only of merit in exclusion of App disease by negative serology.
Idiopathic haemarthrosis in eight horses
Authors: Vallance SA , Lumsden JM , Begg AP , O'Sullivan CB
Published: May 2012

Objectives  To review eight horses diagnosed with idiopathic haemarthrosis and to describe the intra‐articular use of yttrium‐90 (90Y) and methylprednisolone acetate (MPA) in recurrent haemarthrosis cases.

Design  Retrospective case series.

Method  The medical records, diagnostic images, histopathology and outcome of all horses diagnosed with idiopathic haemarthrosis between 1998 and 2010 were reviewed.

Results  Four Thoroughbred racehorses with haemarthrosis of the antebrachiocarpal joint had severe acute lameness (median, grade 4) and marked joint effusion after high‐speed exercise. Another four horses (2 Thoroughbred racehorses, 1 Standardbred racehorse, 1 Warmblood) had haemarthrosis of the tarsocrural joint and presented with mild, intermittent lameness (median, grade 1) and marked, persistent joint effusion. Six of the eight horses had recurrent haemarthrosis prior to treatment. Radiographic and nuclear scintigraphic examinations did not identify bone pathology. Diagnostic arthroscopy (7 cases) identified grossly hypertrophied yellow/brown discoloured synovium. Synovial histopathology of these cases revealed chronic synovial hyperplasia with severe haemosiderosis and granulomatous inflammatory reaction of varying severity. All horses underwent rest, bandaging and phenylbutazone administration. Two horses had subtotal mechanical synovectomy, four horses had intra‐articular administration of 90Y and MPA, and one horse underwent both treatments. Seven cases returned to their previous use (median time, 7 months). Haemarthrosis recurred in three horses, two of which had received the 90Y and MPA treatment.

Conclusion  Idiopathic haemarthrosis should be considered a differential for acute and recurrent joint related lameness and effusion. Recurrence appears not uncommon and the use of intra‐articular 90Y and MPA in conjunction with a conservative management treatment protocol warrants further evaluation.
In this issue – June 2012
Authors: Jackson AE
Published: May 2012

Assay to measure success of functional parathyroid excision · Palliative radiation therapy for malignant trichoepithelioma · Idiopathic haemarthrosis in horses · Fatal snail bait poisoning in a horse · Utility of diagnostic tests for Actinobacillus pleuropneumonia in pigs · Iodine deficiency disorders in sheep · Immobilisation of estuarine crocodiles
The effect of close relatives on unsupervised Bayesian clustering algorithms in population genetic structure analysis
Authors: RODRÍGUEZ‐RAMILO SILVIA T. , WANG JINLIANG
Published: May 2012

The inference of population genetic structures is essential in many research areas in population genetics, conservation biology and evolutionary biology. Recently, unsupervised Bayesian clustering algorithms have been developed to detect a hidden population structure from genotypic data, assuming among others that individuals taken from the population are unrelated. Under this assumption, markers in a sample taken from a subpopulation can be considered to be in Hardy–Weinberg and linkage equilibrium. However, close relatives might be sampled from the same subpopulation, and consequently, might cause Hardy–Weinberg and linkage disequilibrium and thus bias a population genetic structure analysis. In this study, we used simulated and real data to investigate the impact of close relatives in a sample on Bayesian population structure analysis. We also showed that, when close relatives were identified by a pedigree reconstruction approach and removed, the accuracy of a population genetic structure analysis can be greatly improved. The results indicate that unsupervised Bayesian clustering algorithms cannot be used blindly to detect genetic structure in a sample with closely related individuals. Rather, when closely related individuals are suspected to be frequent in a sample, these individuals should be first identified and removed before conducting a population structure analysis.
Safranal Enhances Non‐Rapid Eye Movement Sleep in Pentobarbital‐Treated Mice
Authors: Liu Zheng , Xu Xin‐Hong , Liu Tian‐Ya , Hong Zong‐Yuan , Urade Yoshihiro , Huang Zhi‐Li , Qu Wei‐Min
Published: May 2012

Aims: Safranal (2,6,6‐trimethyl‐1,3‐cyclohexadiene‐1‐carboxaldehyde, C10H14O) is an active ingredient in the saffron, which is used in traditional medicine. It has been reported to have sedative and anti‐epileptic effects, but its hypnotic effects remain uncertain. The aim of this study was to evaluate effects of safranal on sleep‐wake cycle. Methods: We established hypnotic‐model mice treated with a low dose of pentobarbital 20 mg/kg, and administered different doses of safranal, vehicle, or diazepam. The change of sleep‐wake cycle was assessed by sleep recording and c‐Fos expression in the brain was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Results: Safranal increased the duration of non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, shortened NREM sleep latency, and enhanced the delta power activity of NREM sleep. Immunohistochemical evaluation revealed that safranal increased c‐Fos expression in the ventrolateral preoptic nucleus (VLPO), one of the putative sleep centers, and decreased it in the arousal histaminergic tuberomammillary nuclei (TMN). Conclusion: These findings indicate that safranal enhances NREM sleep in pentobarbital‐treated mice. The hypnotic effects of safranal may be related to the activation of the sleep‐promoting neurons in the VLPO and the simultaneous inhibition of the wakefulness‐promoting neurons in the TMN, suggesting that safranal may be a hypnotic substance.
ABCC2 Polymorphisms and Haplotype are Associated with Drug Resistance in Chinese Epileptic Patients
Authors: Qu Jian , Zhou Bo‐Ting , Yin Ji‐Ye , Xu Xiao‐Jing , Zhao Ying‐Chun , Lei Guang‐Hua , Tang Qiang , Zhou Hong‐Hao , Liu Zhao‐Qian
Published: May 2012

Aims: Some study found that ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) efflux transporters play an important role in antiepileptic drug resistance, especially ABCB1 and ABCC2. The aims of this study were to evaluate the relationship between the genetic polymorphisms of ABCC2 and ABCB1 and the therapeutic efficacy of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) in Chinese epileptic patients. Methods:ABCB1 rs1045642 (3435C>T) and ABCC2 rs717620 (−24C>T), rs3740066 (3972C>T), and rs2273697 (1249G>A) polymorphisms loci in 537 Chinese epilepsy patients (217 drug resistant patients and 320 drug responders) were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP). Results:ABCC2 rs717620 −24TT genotype was significantly associated with drug resistant epilepsy (odds ratio [OR]= 4.06 [1.79–9.20], P= 0.001). The OR values of ABCC2 rs717620 −24 CT+TT genotypes and ABCC2 rs3740066 (3972C>T) CT+TT genotypes were markedly higher in drug resistant patients (OR = 1.57 [1.08–2.29], P= 0.018; OR = 1.49 [1.02–2.18], P= 0.038, respectively) compared with responsive patients. ABCC2 rs2273697 (1249G>A) and ABCB1 rs1045642 (3435C>T) polymorphisms were not associated with drug resistant epilepsy. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) test showed that the ABCC2 rs717620 were in strong LD with rs2273697 (D’= 0.694) and rs3740066 (D’= 0.699). The frequencies of haplotypes TGT (ABCC2 −24C>T/ABCC2 1249G>A/ABCC2 3972C>T) in resistant patients was significantly higher than those in responsive patients (21.0% vs. 14.2%, P < 0.05). Conclusion:ABCC2−24C>T, 3972C>T polymorphisms and one ABCC2 haplotype is associated with AED resistance; ABCC2 1249G>A and ABCB1 3435C>T polymorphisms are not associated with AED resistance in our study. These data suggest that ABCC2 polymorphisms and haplotype may affect the response of antiepileptic drugs.
MicroRNA‐21 Expression is regulated by β‐catenin/STAT3 Pathway and Promotes Glioma Cell Invasion by Direct Targeting RECK
Authors: Han Lei , Yue Xiao , Zhou Xuan , Lan Feng‐Ming , You Gan , Zhang Wei , Zhang Kai‐Liang , Zhang Chun‐Zhi , Cheng Jin‐Quan , Yu Shi‐Zhu , Pu Pei‐Yu , Jiang Tao , Kang Chun‐Sheng
Published: May 2012

Aims

MicroRNA‐21 (miR‐21) expression is increased in many types of human malignancy, including glioma. Recent studies report that miR‐21 regulates cell invasion by targeting RECK, however, the underlying transcriptional regulation of miR‐21 in glioma cells remains elusive.

Results

Here, we identify a positive correlation between miR‐21 expression and pathological grade in glioma tissues. We demonstrate that β‐catenin pathway regulates miR‐21 expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cell and glioma cells, and that this regulation is signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)‐dependent. Further, chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter analysis demonstrate that miR‐21 is controlled by an upstream promoter containing a conserved STAT3 binding site. Notably, knockdown of miR‐21‐inhibited cell invasion by increasing RECK expression and decreased tumor growth in a xenograft model.

Conclusion

These data provide compelling evidence that β‐catenin regulation of miR‐21 via STAT3 plays a role in glioma cell invasion and proliferation and indicate that STAT3 is a potential therapeutic target for glioma intervention.
Non-union of Non-operatively Treated Displaced Olecranon Fractures
Authors: Bruinsma Wendy , Lindenhovius Anneluuk , Mckee Michael , Athwal George S. , Ring David
Published: May 2012

Background

With this case series, we report the management of patients who present with non-union after no treatment or intentional non-operative management of a displaced olecranon fracture. We hypothesized that the majority of these patients would be satisfied with their symptoms and function.

Methods

Ten patients (six women and four men) with a mean age of 59 years (range 21 years to 94 years) presented to one of seven surgeons with non-union of a displaced fracture of the olecranon a mean of 17 months (range 3 months to 7 years) after injury.

Results

The mean flexion-extension arc at presentation was 117° (range 100° to 135°) with a mean flexion of 137° (range 120° to 150°) and a mean extension of 21° (range 10° to 40°). Forearm rotational arc was a mean of 172° (range 150° to 180°) with a mean pronation of 86° (range 75° to 90°) and a mean supination of 86° (range 75° to 90°). Two patients who had difficulty participating in daily activities because of pain or loss of function requested operative treatment. Eight patients declined operative treatment.

Conclusions

Patients who present with a non-union after a displaced olecranon fracture managed non-operatively have reasonable elbow function and uncommonly request operative treatment.
Volleyball and the Hitting Shoulder: Is it Time to Institute a ‘Pitch Count’?
Authors: Mayers Lester B. , Moore Karrin A.
Published: May 2012

We review the pertinent literature and survey 31 collegiate women's volleyball programme athletic trainers estimating the prevalence of shoulder pain among participants, particularly the ‘hitters’. We also survey experienced coaches for their estimate of the number of overhead arm swings performed by these athletes (during matches, practices and pre-game warm-ups) confirming these estimates by actual counts where available. A brief review of the results leads us to conclude that adoption of a ‘swing count’, analogous to the baseball ‘pitch count’, might ameliorate the substantial shoulder issues reported to us.
Mental health services in the Solomon Islands
Authors: Orotaloa Paul , Blignault Ilse
Published: May 2012

The Solomon Islands comprise an archipelago of nearly 1,000 islands and coral atolls and have an estimated population of 549,574 people. Formal mental health services date back to 1950 when an asylum was established. Since then the process of mental health service development has been largely one of incremental change, with a major boost to community services in the last two decades. During the 1990s a mental health outpatient clinic was established in Honiara, together with attempts to recruit nursing staff as psychiatric coordinators in the provinces. In 1996, the Ministry commenced sending registered nurses for psychiatric training in Papua New Guinea. By 2010, there were 13 psychiatric nurses and one psychiatrist, with a second psychiatrist in training. A National Mental Health Policy was drafted in 2009 but is yet to be endorsed by Cabinet. A significant portion of the population still turns to traditional healers or church leaders for purposes of healing, seeking help from Western medicine only after all other alternatives in the community have been exhausted. There is still a long way to go before mental health services are available, affordable and accessible to the whole population, including people living in geographically remote areas. Realization of this vision requires increased resourcing for mental health services; improved communication and collaboration between the centrally‐based, national mental health services and the provincial health services; and closer, ongoing relationships between all stakeholders and partners, both locally and internationally.
Post‐tsunami mental health: A cross‐sectional survey of the predictors of common mental disorders in South India 9–11 months after the 2004 Tsunami
Authors: George Christina , Kanakamma Libu Gnanaseelan , John Jacob , Sunny Ginesh , Cohen Alex , De Silva Mary J
Published: May 2012

Introduction

The Asian earthquake and subsequent tsunami of December 2004, one of the largest natural disasters in history, resulted in the deaths of over 250,000 people and massive destruction in eight countries. The mental health consequences of the disaster remain relatively poorly explored. This study sought to go beyond the dose‐response paradigm to examine the effect of pre‐disaster socio‐cultural variables on common mental disorders (CMD) after the tsunami.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted 9–11 months after the 2004 tsunami in a low‐income setting in South India to assess the association between CMD, disaster‐related losses and pre‐disaster socio‐cultural variables in a convenience adult sample of tsunami survivors.

Results

Sixty‐four percent (339) of the 532 individuals sampled and included in the analysis screened positive for CMD. Multivariate analysis showed that female gender, older age, poor quality marital life before the disaster and death of a primary family member due to the tsunami were associated with CMD.

Discussion

A large majority of the sample in an area of South India screened positive for CMD 9–11 months after the tsunami. These data served as an impetus in planning a long‐term, five‐year post‐disaster intervention. Accurate longitudinal data about risk and protective factors after a disaster are needed to plan medium‐ and long‐term interventions.
Mental health literacy: A cross‐cultural study from Britain, Hong Kong and Malaysia
Authors: Loo Phik‐Wern , Wong Sharon , Furnham Adrian
Published: May 2012

Introduction

A cross‐cultural study was conducted on the identification of psychiatric problems comparing British, Hong Kong and Malaysian participants.

Aims

To investigate the ability to correctly identify different psychiatric problems and recommend strategies for treatment.

Methods

A total of 440 participants were shown vignettes of schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), social phobia, depression, bipolar disorder, stress, child attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), child depression and child “daily troubles”. In each they were asked to say what they thought the person's problem was and how they could be helped as well as give their confidence ratings on both judgments.

Results

The British were the most adept at correctly identifying the cases of mental disorders in the vignettes followed by the Hong Kong Chinese and Malaysians. Overall, the depression cases were the best identified and social phobia was the least identified. In terms of help recommendation, a higher percentage of British participants endorsed professional help as useful for the person in the vignette compared to Hong Kong and Malaysian participants.

Discussion

The findings were discussed along with suggestions on how to improve mental health literacy. The ethnocentric nature of applying Western concepts in the East was acknowledged.