bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The usefulness of plasma histamine and different tryptase cut‐off points in the diagnosis of peranaesthetic hypersensitivity reactions
Authors: Berroa F. , Lafuente A. , Javaloyes G. , Ferrer M. , Moncada R. , Goikoetxea M. J. , Urbain C. M. , Sanz M. L. , Gastaminza G.
Published: November 2013

Anaesthetic hypersensitivity reactions can be IgE‐ or not IgE‐mediated and are a challenge to find the causal agent. Histamine and tryptase determination are classically considered useful in the diagnosis of these reactions. The aim of our study was to assess the diagnostic usefulness of plasma histamine and different cut‐off points of serum tryptase.

Methods

Patients suffering a reaction suggestive of hypersensitivity during general anaesthesia in Clínica Universidad de Navarra (2008–2012) were included. Serum tryptase and plasma histamine were measured at the time of the reaction and 2 h later. Baseline tryptase was also determined. Four to eight weeks after the reaction an allergological study was performed to all the drugs or products involved in the reaction.

Results

Sixty‐five patients suffered an immediate hypersensitivity reaction during the period of the study. Thirty‐seven patients (20 male) with median age 48 years (12–79) were included because they completed allergological study, and histamine and tryptase were correctly obtained. Elevated plasma histamine was observed in 34 cases (92%). Tryptase exceeded twice the basal values in 10 patients (31%). Using different cut‐off points of tryptase, the number of patients with elevated tryptase would be 15 patients (41%) for a cut‐off point of 5 μg/L; 12 patients (32%) for a cut‐off point of 8.23 μg/L; nine patients (24%) for 10.5 μg/L; and eight patients (22%) for 11.4 μg/L. The median tryptase level for the IgE‐mediated reactions was 9.0 μg/L (2–70 μg/L) and 4.0 μg/L (3–13 μg/L) in non‐IgE‐mediated reactions (P < 0.01). Median tryptase levels were higher in more severe reactions (grade 2 or 3) in comparison with grade 1. The best ratio for serum‐tryptase‐during‐reaction/basal‐serum‐tryptase to discriminate between IgE and non‐IgE reactions was 2.0.

Conclusion

The best criterion for discriminating IgE‐ and non IgE‐mediated hypersensitivity reactions in anaesthesia was a tryptase value exceeding twice the basal one.
Determining range edges: habitat quality, climate or climate extremes?
Authors: Seabrook Leonie , McAlpine Clive , Rhodes Jonathan , Baxter Greg , Bradley Adrian , Lunney Daniel
Published: November 2013

Aim

Climate change is predicted to adversely affect wildlife populations at the trailing edge of their range, with extreme weather events acting as a catalyst for local extinctions and range contractions. We assessed the relative importance of long‐term climate averages, short‐term drought and habitat in predicting species occupancy and range edge, using the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) as a case study.

Location

Queensland, Australia.

Methods

We used mixed effects models to quantify the influence of habitat quality and climate on koala distribution at the trailing edge of their range, at three spatial scales. We used piecewise logistic regression to estimate thresholds in the relationship between the range edge and key environmental variables.

Results

Both climatic and habitat variables explained koala presence. At the site scale, the quality of habitat was important within landscapes that had experienced higher levels of rainfall during a decade‐long drought. The spatial pattern of the koala's present‐day western range limit reflects closely a breakpoint of ~350 mm in summer rainfall during the drought years, supporting both theoretical predictions and empirical research on the influence of climate extremes on contracting edge populations.

Main conclusions

The distribution of fauna at their range margin in semi‐arid regions reflects extreme climate events, such as drought. Within suitable climate conditions, habitat quality is important in determining site occupancy. The identification and protection of habitat refugia, where local microclimates and habitat characteristics can mitigate the impacts of extreme events on fauna species at the contracting edge of the range, may allow species to persist for longer under changing climate conditions.
Reflections on a Decade of Global Rankings: what we've learned and outstanding issues
Authors: Hazelkorn Ellen
Published: November 2013

Ten years after the first global rankings appeared, it is clear that they have had an extraordinary impact on higher education. While there are fundamental questions about whether rankings measure either quality or what's meaningful, they have succeeded in exposing higher education to international comparison. More so, because of the important role higher education plays as a driver of economic development, rankings have exposed both an information deficit and national competitiveness. Accordingly, both nations and institutions have sought to maximise their position vis‐á‐vis global rankings with positive and perverse effects. Their legacy is evident in the way rankings have become an implicit — and often explicit – reference point for policymaking and higher education decision‐making, and have reinforced an evaluative state's over‐reliance on quantitative indicators to measure quality. They are embedded in popular discourse, and have informed the behaviour of many stakeholders, within and outside the academy. This paper reflects on three inter‐related issues; i) considers the way rankings have heightened policy and investment interest in higher education, ii) discusses whether the modifications to rankings have resolved some of the questions about what they measure, and iii) looks at how rankings have influenced stakeholder behaviour. Finally, the paper reflects on what we have learned and some outstanding issues.
Dispersal, landscape and travelling waves in cyclic vole populations
Authors: Berthier Karine , Piry Sylvain , Cosson Jean‐François , Giraudoux Patrick , Foltête Jean‐Christophe , Defaut Régis , Truchetet Denis , Lambin Xavier
Published: November 2013

Travelling waves (TW) are among the most striking ecological phenomena emerging in oscillating populations. Despite much theory, understanding how real‐world TW arise remains a challenge for ecology. Herein, we analyse 16‐year time series of cyclic vole populations collected at 314 localities covering 2500 km² in France. We found evidence for a linear front TW spreading at a speed of 7.4 km year−1 along a north‐west/south‐east direction and radiating away from a major landscape discontinuity as predicted by recent theory. The spatial signature of vole dispersal was assessed using genetic data collected at 14 localities. Both data sets were handled using similar autocorrelation approaches. Our results revealed a remarkable congruence of the spatial extent and direction of anisotropy of both demographic and genetic structures. Our results constitute the first empirical evidence that effective dispersal is limited in the direction of TW while most of the individual exchanges occur along the wave front.
Personality Correlates of Assessment Center Consensus Competency Ratings: Evidence from Russia
Authors: Simonenko Svetlana , Thornton George C. , Gibbons Alyssa M. , Kravtcova Anna
Published: November 2013

Controversy has revolved around whether assessment center ratings have construct validity to measure intended dimensions of managerial performance. In contrast to much recent research on the internal structure of assessment center ratings, the present studies investigated the relationship of final competency ratings derived by consensus discussion with external questionnaire measures of personality characteristics. Expanding on previous studies showing correlations of dimension scores in relation to individual trait measures, this study investigated the relationship of complex competencies with both single personality traits and with composites of personality traits. Evidence from two samples of managers in Russia shows that final competency ratings are related to predicted composites of personality factors more consistently than to single factors. Taken together, these findings provide evidence that assessment center ratings derived by consensus discussion show construct validity in relationship with predicted composites of personality characteristics.
The process and utility of classification and regression tree methodology in nursing research
Authors: Kuhn Lisa , Page Karen , Ward John , Worrall‐Carter Linda
Published: November 2013

Aim

This paper presents a discussion of classification and regression tree analysis and its utility in nursing research.

Background

Classification and regression tree analysis is an exploratory research method used to illustrate associations between variables not suited to traditional regression analysis. Complex interactions are demonstrated between covariates and variables of interest in inverted tree diagrams.

Design

Discussion paper.

Data sources

English language literature was sourced from eBooks, Medline Complete and CINAHL Plus databases, Google and Google Scholar, hard copy research texts and retrieved reference lists for terms including classification and regression tree* and derivatives and recursive partitioning from 1984–2013.

Discussion

Classification and regression tree analysis is an important method used to identify previously unknown patterns amongst data. Whilst there are several reasons to embrace this method as a means of exploratory quantitative research, issues regarding quality of data as well as the usefulness and validity of the findings should be considered.

Implications for Nursing Research

Classification and regression tree analysis is a valuable tool to guide nurses to reduce gaps in the application of evidence to practice. With the ever‐expanding availability of data, it is important that nurses understand the utility and limitations of the research method.

Conclusion

Classification and regression tree analysis is an easily interpreted method for modelling interactions between health‐related variables that would otherwise remain obscured. Knowledge is presented graphically, providing insightful understanding of complex and hierarchical relationships in an accessible and useful way to nursing and other health professions.
Systematic review of the psychometric properties and theoretical grounding of instruments evaluating self‐care in people with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Caro‐Bautista Jorge , Martín‐Santos Francisco Javier , Morales‐Asencio Jose Miguel
Published: November 2013

Aim

To determine the psychometric properties and theoretical grounding of instruments that evaluate self‐care behaviour or barriers in people with type 2 diabetes.

Background

There are many instruments designed to evaluate self‐care behaviour or barriers in this population, but knowledge about their psychometric validation processes is lacking.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

We conducted a search for psychometric or validation studies published between January 1990–December 2012. We carried out searches in Pubmed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ProQuolid, BibliPRO and Google SCHOLAR to identify instruments that evaluated self‐care behaviours or barriers to diabetes self‐care.

Review methods

We conducted a systematic review with the following inclusion criteria: Psychometric or clinimetric validation studies that included patients with type 2 diabetes (exclusively or partially) and which analysed self‐care behaviour or barriers to self‐care and proxies like self‐efficacy or empowerment, from a multidimensional approach. Language: Spanish or English. Two authors independently assessed the quality of the studies and extracted data using Terwee's proposed criteria: psychometrics properties, dimensionality, theoretical ground and population used for validation through each included instrument.

Results

Sixteen instruments achieved the inclusion criteria for the review. We detected important methodological flaws in many of the selected instruments. Only the Self‐management Profile for Type 2 Diabetes and Problem Areas in Diabetes Scale met half of Terwee's quality criteria.

Conclusion

There are no instruments for identifying self‐care behaviours or barriers elaborated with a strong validation process. Further research should be carried out to provide patients, clinicians and researchers with valid and reliable instruments that are methodologically solid and theoretically grounded.
Enhanced expression of the central survival of motor neuron (SMN) protein during the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis
Authors: Cucchiarini Magali , Madry Henning , Terwilliger Ernest F.
Published: November 2013

The identification of new components implicated in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) might improve our understanding of the disease process. Here, we investigated the levels of the survival of motor neuron (SMN) expression in OA cartilage considering the fundamental role of the SMN protein in cell survival and its involvement in other stress‐associated pathologies. We report that SMN expression is up‐regulated in human OA compared with normal cartilage, showing a strong correlation with the disease severity, a result confirmed in vivo in an experimental model of the disease. We further show that the prominent inflammatory cytokines (IL‐1β, TNF‐α) are critical inducers of SMN expression. This is in marked contrast with the reported impaired levels of SMN in spinal muscular atrophy, a single inherited neuromuscular disorder characterized by mutations in the smn gene whereas OA is a complex disease with multiple aetiologies. While the precise functions of SMN during OA remain to be elucidated, the conclusions of this study shed light on a novel pathophysiological pathway involved in the progression of OA, potentially offering new targets for therapy.
Adapting lung cancer symptom investigation and referral guidelines for general practitioners in Australia: Reflections on the utility of the ADAPTE framework
Authors: Chakraborty Samantha P. , Jones Kay M. , Mazza Danielle
Published: November 2013

Rationale

The ADAPTE framework was established to enhance efficiency in guideline development and to facilitate adaptation of high‐quality clinical practice guidelines for a local context. It offers guideline developers a systematic methodology for guideline adaptation; however, the feasibility and usability of the process has not been widely evaluated.

Aim

A pragmatic approach was undertaken throughout the evaluation of the ADATPE process throughout the development of a guide for general practitioners in Australia regarding the initial investigation of symptoms of lung cancer. At each step of the framework all members of the project team leading the development process reflected on the steps outlined in the ADAPTE. The reflections were collated into a lesson‐learned log and analysed following completion of the project.

Results

Several opportunities for improvement were identified to improve usability and practicability of the ADAPTE framework. These items were both specific, in response to using steps and tools, and general issues concerned with the overall ADAPTE framework. Key challenges to using ADAPTE, highlighted in this study, were the lack of clarity about efficiency of the guideline adaptation process, level of assumed knowledge and expertise, and requirement of resources. In response to these challenges, modifications to the ADAPTE have been recommended.

Conclusion

The ADAPTE framework offers an attractive alternative to de novo guideline synthesis in circumstances where high‐quality, compatible guidelines already exist. Pending further evaluation, the modifications identified in this study may be applied to future versions of ADAPTE to improve usability and feasibility of the framework.
Weight maintenance over 12 months after weight loss resulting from participation in a 12‐week randomised controlled trial comparing all meal provision to self‐directed diet in overweight adults
Authors: Whitham C. , Mellor D. D , Goodwin S. , Reid M. , Atkin S. L.
Published: November 2013

Background

The results of weight maintenance after initial weight loss are reported infrequently, although, when they have been reported, the outcomes are generally poor and weight regain is common.

Methods

After an initial 12‐week randomised intervention comparing all meal provision against a self‐directed energy restriction, participants re‐consented to participate in a follow‐on study. Participants were given the option to choose to continue with the same dietary intervention (either all meal provision (provided free of charge) or self‐directed diet) or change to the other diet for a further 12 weeks. Participants were followed up at 4‐weekly intervals during both intervention periods (a total of 24 weeks), with a final follow up at 12 months.

Results

Eighty‐five out of 86 individuals who completed the original 12‐week randomised phase chose to continue on to the follow‐up study. No significant differences in further weight loss between groups (P = 0.138) [mean (SEM): −3.4% (1.1%) for all meal provision only; −3.4% (0.6%) self‐directed then all meal provision; −1.1% (1.2%) all meal provision then self‐directed] were seen after a further 12 weeks. Meal provision for a total of 24 weeks resulted in 67% of individuals losing at least 10% body weight. The groups switching from self‐directed dieting to meal provision (or vice versa) were the only groups to have a lower mean weight at 12 months than at the start of the follow‐on study.

Conclusions

Structured support for 24 weeks followed by 28 weeks of self‐care can result in weight maintenance, with initial weight loss maintained at 12 months from enrolling on a 12‐week weight loss intervention, with a 12‐week follow‐on period.
Impaired hepatic and intestinal ATP-binding cassette transporter G5/8 was associated with high exposure of β-sitosterol and the potential risks to blood–brain barrier integrity in diabetic rats
Authors: Li Jia , Wang Xinting , Liu Haiyan , Guo Haifang , Zhang Mian , Mei Dan , Liu Can , He Lei , Liu Li , Liu Xiaodong
Published: November 2013

Objectives

Plant sterols are thought to treat hypercholesterolemia via inhibiting intestinal cholesterol absorption. The aim of this study was to evaluate the contribution of impaired ATP-binding cassette transporter G5/8 (ABCG5/8) expression by diabetes to the increased β-sitosterol (BS) exposure and impact of increased BS on integrity of blood–brain barrier (BBB).

Methods

Basal BS level in tissues of streptozotocin-inducted rats and ABCG5/8 protein levels in liver and intestine were investigated; pharmacokinetics of BS was studied following oral dose; and primarily cultured rat brain microvessel endothelial cells (rBMECs) were used to study BS transportation across BBB and effect of BS on BBB integrity.

Key findings

Diabetic rats showed greatly upgraded basal levels of BS in plasma, intestine, cerebral and hippocampus, accompanied by impairment of ABCG5/8 protein expression in liver and intestine. Pharmacokinetics studies demonstrated higher AUC0–48 and Cmax, and lower faecal recoveries of BS after oral administration, indicating enhancement of absorption or efflux impairment. In-vitro data showed increased ratio of BS/cholesterol in high levels BS-treated rBMECs was associated with increased BBB permeability of some biomarkers including BS itself.

Conclusions

Impaired ABCG5/8 protein expression by diabetes led to increase in BS exposure, which may be harmful to BBB function.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid in cats
Authors: McDonnel S. J. , Tell L. A. , Murphy B. G.
Published: November 2013

Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), or vorinostat, is a histone deacetylase inhibitor approved for use as chemotherapy for lymphoma in humans. The goal of this study was to establish pharmacological parameters of SAHA in cats. Our interest in treating cats with SAHA is twofold: as an anticancer chemotherapeutic and as antilatency therapy for feline retroviral infections. Relying solely on data from studies in other animals would be inappropriate as SAHA is partially metabolized by glucuronidation, which is absent in feline metabolism. SAHA was administered to cats intravenously (2 mg/kg) or orally (250 mg/m2, ~17 mg/kg) in a cross‐over study design. Clinically, SAHA was well tolerated at these dosages as no abnormalities were noted following administration. The pharmacokinetics of SAHA in cats was found to be similar to that of dogs, but the overall serum drug exposure was much less than that of humans at an equivalent dose. The pharmacodynamic effect of an increase in acetylated histone proteins in blood was detected after both routes of administration. An increased oral dose of 60 mg SAHA/kg administered to one animal resulted in a surprisingly modest increase in peak drug concentration, suggesting possible saturation of absorption kinetics. This study provides a foundation for future studies of the clinical efficacy of SAHA in treating feline disease.
Regulation of natural competence by the orphan two‐component system sensor kinase ChiS involves a non‐canonical transmembrane regulator in Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Yamamoto Shouji , Mitobe Jiro , Ishikawa Takahiko , Wai Sun Nyunt , Ohnishi Makoto , Watanabe Haruo , Izumiya Hidemasa
Published: November 2013

In Vibrio cholerae, 41 chitin‐inducible genes, including the genes involved in natural competence for DNA uptake, are governed by the orphan two‐component system (TCS) sensor kinase ChiS. However, the mechanism by which ChiS controls the expression of these genes is currently unknown. Here, we report the involvement of a novel transcription factor termed ‘TfoS’ in this process. TfoS is a transmembrane protein that contains a large periplasmic domain and a cytoplasmic AraC‐type DNA‐binding domain, but lacks TCS signature domains. Inactivation of tfoS abolished natural competence as well as transcription of the tfoR gene encoding a chitin‐induced small RNA essential for competence gene expression. A TfoS fragment containing the DNA‐binding domain specifically bound to and activated transcription from the tfoR promoter. Intracellular TfoS levels were unaffected by disruption of chiS and coexpression of TfoS and ChiS in Escherichia coli recovered transcription of the chromosomally integrated tfoR::lacZ gene, suggesting that TfoS is post‐translationally modulated by ChiS during transcriptional activation; however, this regulation persisted when the canonical phosphorelay residues of ChiS were mutated. The results presented here suggest that ChiS operates a chitin‐induced non‐canonical signal transduction cascade through TfoS, leading to transcriptional activation of tfoR.
Pollen‐induced allergic rhinitis in 1360 Italian children: Comorbidities and determinants of severity
Authors: Dondi Arianna , Tripodi Salvatore , Panetta Valentina , Asero Riccardo , Businco Andrea Di Rienzo , Bianchi Annamaria , Carlucci Antonio , Ricci Giampaolo , Bellini Federica , Maiello Nunzia , Miraglia del Giudice Michele , Frediani Tullio , Sodano Simona , Dello Iacono Iride , Macrì Francesco , Massaccesi Valerio , Caffarelli Carlo , Rinaldi Laura , Patria Maria Francesca , Varin Elena , Peroni Diego , Chinellato Iolanda , Chini Loredana , Moschese Viviana , Lucarelli Sandra , Bernardini Roberto , Pingitore Giuseppe , Pelosi Umberto , Tosca Mariangela , Paravati Francesco , La Grutta Stefania , Meglio Paolo , Calvani Mauro , Plebani Mario , Matricardi Paolo Maria ,   the Italian Pediatric Allergy Network (I‐PAN)
Published: November 2013

Background

Pollen‐induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (AR) is highly prevalent and rapidly evolving during childhood. General practitioners may not be fully aware of the nature and severity of symptoms experienced by patients and might underestimate the prevalence of moderate or severe disease. Thus, the relevance of early diagnosis and intervention may be overlooked.

Objectives

To investigate the severity of pollen‐induced AR and its determinants in Italian children referred to allergy specialists and who had never received specific immunotherapy (SIT).

Methods

Children (age 4–18 yr) affected by pollen‐induced AR who had never undergone SIT were recruited between May 2009 and June 2011 in 16 pediatric outpatient clinics in 14 Italian cities. Recruited children's parents answered standardized questionnaires on atopic diseases (International Study of Allergy and Asthma in Childhood, Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma, Global Initiative for Asthma). The children underwent skin‐prick test (SPT) with several airborne allergens and six food allergens. Information on socio‐demographic factors, parental history of allergic diseases, education, perinatal events, breastfeeding, nutrition and environmental exposure in early life was collected through an informatics platform shared by the whole network of clinical centers (AllergyCARD™).

Results

Among the 1360 recruited patients (68% males, age 10.5 ± 3.4 yr), 695 (51%) had moderate‐to‐severe AR, 533 (39%) asthma, and 325 (23.9%) oral allergy syndrome (OAS). Reported onset of pollen‐induced AR was on average at 5.3 ± 2.8 yr, and its mean duration from onset was 5.2 ± 3.3 yr. Only 6.2% of the patients were pollen‐monosensitized, and 84.9% were sensitized to ≥3 pollens. A longer AR duration was significantly associated with moderate‐to‐severe AR symptoms (p 0.004), asthma (p 0.030), and OAS comorbidities (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This nationwide study may raise awareness of the severity of pollen‐induced AR among Italian children who have never received pollen SIT. The strong association between pollen‐induced AR duration and several markers of disease severity needs replication in longitudinal studies, while suggesting that countrywide initiatives for earlier diagnosis and intervention should be planned.
High‐mobility group box‐1 (HMGB‐1) and serum soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) in children affected by vernal keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Zicari Anna Maria , Zicari Alessandra , Nebbioso Marcella , Mari Emanuela , Celani Camilla , Lollobrigida Valeria , Marcelli Azzurra Cesoni , Occasi Francesca , Duse Marzia
Published: November 2013

Background

Vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) is a chronic disease affecting conjunctiva even though the immunopathogenetic mechanisms underlying this inflammation are unclear. The aim of our study is to investigate serum levels of HMGB1 and circulating sRAGE in children affected by VKC before and after treatment with cyclosporine A (CsA) eye drops and in a group of healthy children.

Methods

Twenty‐four children affected by VKC aged between 5 and 12 yrs of life were enrolled at the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy and Immunology, ‘Sapienza’ University of Rome. Twenty‐four healthy children without atopy, ocular, and systemic disease, cross‐matched for sex and age to patients affected by VKC, represented the controls. All children affected by VKC were treated with CsA 1% eye drops for 4 wks, and blood samples were collected before and 2 wks after the end of treatment while the controls underwent to a single blood sample at the time of enrollment.

Results

Serum basal levels of HMGB1 and sRAGE were higher in children with VKC when compared with controls while, in patients affected by VKC, no difference was detected between atopic and non‐atopic, and between ANA‐positive and ANA‐negative children. A significant reduction in serum HMGB1 and sRAGE levels was detected after the therapy while CsA serum levels were negative.

Conclusions

Our study gives a support to the definition of VKC as a systemic inflammation in which HMGB1 and its soluble receptors could play a role.
Beta‐lactam hypersensitivity in children with cystic fibrosis: a study in a specialized pediatric center for cystic fibrosis and drug allergy
Authors: Matar Rania , Le Bourgeois Muriel , Scheinmann Pierre , de Blic Jacques , Ponvert Claude
Published: November 2013

Background

Beta‐lactam hypersensitivity (HS) is suspected in 5–12% of the children, but proven in only 10–15% of those children, based on skin and challenge tests results. In contrast, 30–60% of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) are diagnosed allergic to beta‐lactams, based mainly on the clinical history of the patients.

Objectives

To confirm or rule out a suspected beta‐lactamHSinCFchildren and to determine the prevalences of suspected and confirmed beta‐lactamHSin those children.

Patients and methods

Children withCFand suspected beta‐lactamHSwere explored by means of skin and challenge tests with the suspected and alternate beta‐lactams. The results inCFchildren were compared with those reported in the literature in non‐CFchildren.

Results

Eight of the 701CFchildren followed in our center between 1990 and 2011 (1.14%), and 11 other children from other centers were explored for suspected beta‐lactam HS. Beta‐lactam HS was diagnosed in nine of these children (47.3%). Based on the results in the children followed in our center, the prevalence of beta‐lactamHSwas 0.71% (5/701) inCFchildren vs. a mean estimated prevalence of 1–1.5% in the general pediatric population.

Conclusion

Our results contrast with those of most previous studies. Although half of theCFchildren with suspected beta‐lactamHSwere truly allergic to beta‐lactams, the general prevalence of beta‐lactamHSinCFchildren was very low. This may result from tolerance induced by frequent and/or prolonged treatments with beta‐lactams.
The relationship between head and neck position and endotracheal tube intracuff pressure in the pediatric population
Authors: Kako Hiromi , Krishna Senthil G. , Ramesh Archana S. , Merz Meredith N. , Elmaraghy Charles , Grischkan Jonathan , Jatana Kris R. , Ruda James , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: November 2013

Background

Over the past few years, there has been a change in clinical practice with a transition to the use of cuffed instead of uncuffed endotracheal tubes (ETTs) in pediatric patients. These changes have led to concerns regarding unsafe intracuff pressures in pediatric patients, which may result in postoperative morbidity. To avoid these issues, it is generally suggested that the intracuff pressure be maintained at ≤30 cmH2O. The current study prospectively assesses the changes in intracuff pressure related to alterations in head and neck position in pediatric patients.

Methods

Patients less than 18 years of age, undergoing surgery, requiring endotracheal intubation with a cuffed ETT were eligible for inclusion. No alteration in the technique of anesthetic induction or maintenance was required for the study. Following endotracheal intubation and inflation of the cuff with the head and neck in a neutral position, the intracuff pressure was measured. The intracuff pressure was then subsequently measured with the head turned to the right, head turned to the left, head and neck flexed, and head and neck extended.

Results

A total of 200 patients were included in the study resulting in a total of 1000 intracuff pressure readings. When compared to the neutral position, the intracuff pressure increased in 545 instances (68.1%) with changes in position of the head and neck. An increase in intracuff pressure was noted more frequently and to the greatest degree with head and neck flexion. The pressure decreased in 153 instances (19.1%), most frequently with neck extension.

Conclusion

Significant changes in the intracuff pressure occur with changes in head and neck position. In several cases, this resulted in a significant increase in the intracuff pressure. For prolonged cases with the head and neck turned from the neutral position, the intracuff pressure should be measured following patient positioning to ensure that the intracuff pressure is within the clinically recommended range.
Lateral variation in structural style of mountain building: controls of rheological and rift inheritance
Authors: Jammes Suzon , Huismans Ritske S. , Muñoz Josep Anton
Published: November 2013

Many mountain belts exhibit significant along‐strike variation in structural style with changes in the width of the orogen, the geometry and kinematics of the crustal‐scale thrust system, and the degree of partitioning between pro‐ and retro‐wedge deformations. Although the main factors controlling first‐order structural style are understood, the cause of these lateral variations remains to be resolved. Here we focus on the Pyrenees, characterized by significant lateral variation in structural style with a thrust system involving more and thinner thrust sheets in the eastern section than in the western part. Similarly, the prior Mesozoic rifting event was characterized by significant lateral variation in structure. We integrate available geological and geophysical data with forward lithospheric scale numerical models. We show that lateral variation in crustal strength attributed to inherited Variscan crustal composition accentuated during Mesozoic rifting explains the variation in structural style observed during Pyrenean mountain building.
HNA‐3 gene frequencies in Brazilians and a new polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism method for HNA‐3a/3b genotyping
Authors: Lopes Larissa Barbosa , Baleotti Wilson , Suzuki Rodrigo Buzinaro , Fabron Antonio , Chiba Akemi Kuroda , Vieira‐Filho João Paulo Botelho , de Souza Castro Bianca , Midori Kunioshi Alessandra , Bordin José Orlando
Published: November 2013

Background

HNA‐3 antigens are the result of a rs2288904 single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the CTL2, and the HNA‐3a and HNA‐3b variants are encoded by a guanine and adenine at Nucleotide Position 461. Anti‐HNA‐3 are involved in severe transfusion‐related acute lung injury reactions and in neonatal alloimmune neutropenia. Since the distribution of the HNA‐3 system was unknown in South Americans, in this study we determined the frequency of the HNA‐3 alleles in Brazilians.

Study Design and Methods

DNA of 500 blood donors, 120 Xikrin Amerindians, 74 Japanese individuals, and 124 African Brazilians were genotyped for rs2288904 by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐restriction fragment length polymorphism assay. The PCR product was digested with enzyme Taqα1, specific to nucleotide guanine (HNA‐3a).

Results

The results showed that the frequencies of the HNA‐3a/HNA‐3b alleles were 0.81/0.19 in blood donors, 1.00/0.00 in Amerindians, 0.63/0.37 in Japanese, and 0.85/0.15 in African Brazilians. All 81 individuals genotyped as HNA‐3a/a did not present the SNP c.457T by molecular sequencing.

Conclusion

The frequencies of HNA‐3 genotypes in Brazilian blood donors is similar to that described in Caucasians; however, all Amerindians were HNA‐3a/a, African Brazilians showed a lower frequency of HNA‐3b/b, and Japanese had a higher prevalence of HNA‐3b/b, suggesting that they may be at risk for developing anti‐HNA‐3a alloantibodies.
Effects of different mydriatics on intraocular pressure, pupil diameter, and ruminal and intestinal motility in healthy sheep
Authors: Ribeiro Alexandre P. , Crivelaro Roberta M. , Teixeira Pedro Paulo M. , Trujillo Dunia Y. , Guimarães Patrícia J. , Vicente Wilter Ricardo R. , Martins Bianca da C. , Laus José Luiz
Published: November 2013

Objective

To determine the effects of the administration of subconjunctival 1% atropine (SA), topical 1% atropine (A), 0.5% tropicamide (T), 1% homatropine (H), 10% phenylephrine (P), and 2% ibopamine (I) on intraocular pressure (IOP), pupil diameter (PD), ruminal motility (RM) and intestinal motility (IM) in sheep.

Animal studied

Ten spayed ewes of Santa Inês breed.

Procedures

Six experiments were performed separately at 1‐week intervals. One eye was randomly selected and received one drop of A, T, H, P, I, or subconjunctival injection of atropine at 8 a.m. On the following days, IOP and PD were evaluated every 8 h until the pupil returned to its normal diameter. Ruminal motility and intestinal motility were evaluated only within the first 13 h.

Results

The IOP did not change significantly in the treated eyes compared with the control eyes and baseline at any time point (P > 0.05). A longer‐lasting pupil dilation was observed after the administration of A (96 h), SA (79 h), H (24 h), and T (24 h). Within the first 30 min after treatment, RM and IM decreased, by 78% and 82% (H), 76% and 86% (SA), 46% and 58% (A), and 62% and 70% (T) (P < 0.001), respectively, with a tendency to return to baseline values following 13 h of drug administration. Both 10% phenylephrine and 2% ibopamine did not have any effect on the parameters evaluated (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Topical and subconjunctival 1% atropine, 0.5% tropicamide, and 1% homatropine significantly reduced RM and IM, and induced pupil dilation but did not change IOP in eyes of healthy sheep. The sympathomimetics phenylephrine (10%) and ibopamine (2%) did not change the parameters evaluated.
Ocular findings and reference values for selected ophthalmic diagnostic tests in the macaroni penguin (Eudyptes chrysolophus) and southern rockhopper penguin (Eudyptes chrysocome)
Authors: Bliss Cassandra D. , Aquino Susette , Woodhouse Sarah
Published: November 2013

Objective

To describe ophthalmic examination findings and standard diagnostic test results in 2 penguin species.

Animals Studied

Macaroni &SouthernRockhopperPenguins.

Procedure

Complete ophthalmic examinations including Schirmer tear test (STT), modified phenol red thread test (PTT), tonometry, and echobiometry were performed on penguins housed at the Detroit Zoo. Mean and standard deviation of ophthalmic tests are reported and compared for significance using two sample t‐tests with significance set atP < 0.05. Correlations between variables were assessed using Pearson's correlation coefficient.

Results

Cataracts were the most common finding, present in 64% ofMacaroniPenguins, and 68% ofRockhopperPenguins. There were anterior segment anomalies in all eyes with cataracts consistent with lens‐induced uveitis. The mean modifiedPTTfor the Macaronis was 24.7 ± 6.37 mm/15 s and 25.1 ± 7.07 mm/15 s in the Rockhoppers. The meanSTTvalue for the Macaronis was 12.1 ± 5.43 mm/min and 11.0 ± 3.96 mm/min in theRockhoppers. Mean intraocular pressure (IOP) for the Macaronis was 21.9 ± 7.05 mmHg measured by applanation tonometry and 29.1 ± 7.16 mmHg using rebound tonometry. The Rockhoppers had a meanIOPof 20.0 ± 5.77 mmHg and 24.1 ± 5.09 mmHg for applanation and rebound tonometry, respectively. In both populations, there was a significant difference inIOPmeasurement between the two instruments. In theMacaroni penguins, the presence of cataracts correlated significantly with increased age and lowerIOPreadings. Anterior chamber distance and axial globe length were significantly greater in males than in females in both penguin species.
Analytical Analysis of Magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) Transient Flow Past a Suddenly Started Infinite Vertical Plate With Thermal Radiation and Ramped Wall Temperature
Authors: Ahmed N. , Dutta M.
Published: November 2013

An exact solution to the problem of a magnetohydrodynamic viscous, incompressible free convective flow of an electrically conducting, Newtonian non-Gray fluid past a suddenly started infinite vertical plate with ramped wall temperature in presence of appreciable radiation heat transfer and uniform transverse magnetic field is presented. The fluid is assumed to be optically thin and the magnetic Reynolds number is considered small enough to neglect the induced hydromagnetic effects. The resulting system of the equations governing the flow is solved by adopting Laplace Transform technique in closed form. Detailed computations of the influence of Hartmann number, radiation conduction parameter Q, Reynolds number Re and time t on the variations in the fluid velocity, fluid temperature, and skin friction and Nusselt number at the plate are demonstrated graphically. The results show that the imposition of the transverse magnetic field retards the fluid motion and causes the viscous drag at the plate to fall. The investigation simulates that the fluid temperature drops and the rate of heat transfer from the plate to the fluid gets increased for increasing Reynolds number.
Long-term fundus changes in acquired partial lipodystrophy
Authors: Jansen Joyce , Delaere Lien , Spielberg Leigh , Leys Anita
Published: November 2013

We describe long-term fundus changes in a patient with partial lipodystrophy (PL). Retinal pigment alterations, drusen and subretinal neovascularisation were seen without evidence for membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. Fundus alterations similar to those seen in age-related macular degeneration can occur at an earlier age in patients with PL, even without renal disease. Dysregulation of an alternative complement pathway with low serum levels of C3 has been implicated as a pathogenetic mechanism.
VANISHING DIMENSIONS: A REVIEW
Authors: STOJKOVIC DEJAN
Published: November 2013

We review a growing theoretical motivation and evidence that the number of dimensions actually reduces at high energies. This reduction can happen near the Planck scale, or much before, the dimensions that are reduced can be effective, spectral, topological or the usual dimensions, but many things point toward the fact that the high energy theories appear to propagate in a lower-dimensional space, rather than a higher-dimensional one. We will concentrate on a particular scenario of "vanishing" or "evolving dimensions" where the dimensions open up as we increase the length scale that we are probing, but will also mention related models that point to the same direction, i.e. the causal dynamical triangulation, asymptotic safety, as well as evidence coming from a noncommutative quantum theories, the Wheeler–DeWitt equation and phenomenon of "asymptotic silence". It is intriguing that experimental evidence for the high energy dimensional reduction may already exist — a statistically significant planar alignment of events with energies higher than TeV has been observed in high altitude cosmic ray experiments. A convincing evidence for dimensional reduction may be found in future in collider experiments and gravity waves observatories.
CHINESE LICENSE PLATE RECOGNITION BASED ON HUMAN VISION ATTENTION MECHANISM
Authors: CHEN ZHENXUE , CHANG FALIANG , LIU CHUNSHENG
Published: November 2013

License plate recognition (LPR) is one of the most important elements affecting intelligent transportation systems. A number of LPR techniques have been proposed. Humans are good target recognition systems. In other words, humans easily recognize common objects. In this paper, the researchers present a novel method of recognizing Chinese license plates. The method is based on the Human Vision Attention Mechanism (HVAM) and uses Chinese license plates as the targets. The research consists of three stages. The first stage involved finding and identifying license plates in videos of moving vehicles. The second stage separated each license plate into the seven characters. In the third stage, the character recognizer extracted some salient features of Chinese characters and used a multi-stage classifier to recognize each character on the license plate. In the experiment locating license plates, 1176 images taken from various scenes and conditions were employed. The method failed to identify the license plates in only 27 of the images; resulting in a license plate location rate of success of 97.7%. In the experiment for identifying license characters, 1149 images were used, from which license plates had been successfully located. The method failed to identify the characters in 45 of these images giving a success rate of 96.1%. Combining the above two rates, the overall rate of success for our LPR is 93.9%.
Incidence of Abnormal Offspring from Cloning and Other Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Authors: Hill Jonathan R.
Published: November 2013

In animals produced by assisted reproductive technologies, two abnormal phenotypes have been characterized. Large offspring syndrome (LOS) occurs in offspring derived from in vitro cultured embryos, and the abnormal clone phenotype includes placental and fetal changes. LOS is readily apparent in ruminants, where a large calf or lamb derived from in vitro embryo production or cloning may weigh up to twice the expected body weight. The incidence of LOS varies widely between species. When similar embryo culture conditions are applied to nonruminant species, LOS either is not as dramatic or may even be unapparent. Coculture with serum and somatic cells was identified in the 1990s as a risk factor for abnormal development of ruminant pregnancies. Animals cloned from somatic cells may display a combination of fetal and placental abnormalities that are manifested at different stages of pregnancy and postnatally. In highly interventional technologies, such as nuclear transfer (cloning), the incidence of abnormal offspring continues to be a limiting factor to broader application of the technique. This review details the breadth of phenotypes found in nonviable pregnancies, together with the phenotypes of animals that survive the transition to extrauterine life. The focus is on animals produced using in vitro embryo culture and nuclear transfer in comparison to naturally occurring phenotypes.
Comparative Immune Systems in Animals
Authors: Yuan Shaochun , Tao Xin , Huang Shengfeng , Chen Shangwu , Xu Anlong
Published: November 2013

Animal immune systems can be classified into those of innate immunity and those of adaptive immunity. It is generally thought that the former are universal for all animals and depend on germline-encoded receptors that recognize highly conserved pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), whereas the latter are vertebrate specific and are mediated primarily by lymphocytes bearing a unique antigen receptor. However, novel adaptive or adaptive-like immunities have been found in invertebrates and jawless vertebrates, and extraordinarily complex innate immunities, created through huge expansions of many innate gene families, have recently been found in the cephalochordate amphioxus and the echinoderm sea urchin. These studies not only inspire immunologists to seek novel immune mechanisms in invertebrates but also raise questions about the origin and evolution of vertebrate immunities.
Early Therapeutic Drug Monitoring for Isoniazid and Rifampin among Diabetics with Newly Diagnosed Tuberculosis in Virginia, USA
Authors: Heysell Scott K. , Moore Jane L. , Staley Debbie , Dodge Denise , Houpt Eric R.
Published: November 2013

Slow responders to tuberculosis (TB) treatment in Virginia have prolonged treatment duration and consume more programmatic resources. Diabetes is an independent risk factor for slow response and low serum anti-TB drug concentrations. Thus, a statewide initiative of early therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) for isoniazid and rifampin at 2 weeks after TB treatment was piloted for all diabetics with newly diagnosed TB. During the period of early TDM, 12/01/2011–12/31/2012, 21 diabetics hadC2 hrconcentrations performed and 16 (76%) had a value below the expected range for isoniazid, rifampin, or both. Fifteen had follow-up concentrations after dose adjustment and 12 (80%) increased to within the expected range (including all for rifampin). Of 16 diabetic patients with pulmonary TB that had early TDM, 14 (88%) converted their sputum culture to negative in <2 months. Early TDM for diabetics was operationally feasible, may speed response to TB therapy, and can be considered for TB programs with high diabetes prevalence.
A New Method for TSVD Regularization Truncated Parameter Selection
Authors: Wu Zemin , Bian Shaofeng , Xiang Caibing , Tong Yude
Published: November 2013

The truncated singular value decomposition (TSVD) regularization applied in ill-posed problem is studied. Through mathematical analysis, a new method for truncated parameter selection which is applied in TSVD regularization is proposed. In the new method, all the local optimal truncated parameters are selected first by taking into account the interval estimation of the observation noises; then the optimal truncated parameter is selected from the local optimal ones. While comparing the new method with the traditional generalized cross-validation (GCV) andLcurve methods, a random ill-posed matrices simulation approach is developed in order to make the comparison as statistically meaningful as possible. Simulation experiments have shown that the solutions applied with the new method have the smallest mean square errors, and the computational cost of the new algorithm is the least.