bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tension‐free vaginal tape‐obturator procedure for treatment of severe urodynamic stress incontinence: Subjective and objective outcomes during 2 years of follow‐up
Authors: Su Tsung‐Hsien , Huang Wen‐Chu , Lee Mei‐Yu , Lin Tzu‐Yin , Chang Hui‐Chin , Chen Chih‐Ping
Published: December 2009

Aim:  To report our experience of the tension‐free vaginal tape‐obturator (TVT‐O) procedure for the treatment of severe female urodymanic stress incontinence (USI) during 2 years of follow‐up.

Methods:  Between January 2005 and June 2007, 67 women with severe USI who underwent the TVT‐O procedure were enrolled in the study. Pelvic examination, pad test, urodynamic study, and quality of life (QoL) assessment were performed pre‐ and post‐operatively. Regular follow‐up was arranged for analysis.

Results:  The median duration of follow‐up was 24 months. The objective cure rate was 76.2%. The postoperative pad test revealed significant reduction of leakage. The subjective cure rate was 83.5%, and improvement occurred in 14.9%. The postoperative QoL showed significant improvement. One (1.5%) extrusion of tape occurred and three cases of de novo detrusor overactivity were detected. Three patients (4.4%) had immediate postoperative urine retention. No major complications occurred.

Conclusion:  Our results show that the TVT‐O procedure is an effective and safe surgical procedure for severe female USI with satisfactory outcomes, significant improvement in quality of life, and few complications during 2 years of follow‐up.
The Importance of Slack for New Organizations Facing ‘Tough’ Environments
Authors: Bradley Steven W. , Shepherd Dean A. , Wiklund Johan
Published: December 2009

abstract

Strategy‐based models centre on the management of unique and valuable resources to take advantage of specific market opportunities. Less examined in this approach are the roles of slack resources in the process of generating firm value – particularly for new firms in ‘tough’ environments where fewer opportunities are available. Using a cohort panel of 951 new manufacturing firms over nine years, our findings provide evidence for the importance of financial slack resources in understanding opportunity generation and also for reconciling theoretical arguments regarding the slack resource–performance link. We find that while financial slack does provide buffering capacity (in hostile and dynamic environments), and flexibility for experimentation (in munificent and dynamic environments) as suggested by prior theory, the most positive relationship between financial slack and performance for new firms was in low discretion environments (hostile and stable environments) – where firms need to develop their own opportunities. The implications of these findings for theory are discussed.
Relational discrepancies and emotion: The moderating roles of relationship type and relational discrepancy valence
Authors: Boldero Jennifer M. , Robins Garry L. , Williams Benedict J. , Francis Jillian J. , Hampton Anne , Fourie Annabelle J.
Published: December 2009

Relational discrepancy theory proposes that discrepancies in the extents to which relational partners meet relational standards are associated with emotions and that perceiving relationships in specified ways moderates associations. In a range of relationships, ideal relational discrepancies were associated with dejection and ought relational discrepancies with agitation (Study 1), associations moderated by relationship type. Discrepancy valence also moderated ideal discrepancy associations. Similar associations were found in friendships, moderated by relationship type (Study 2). Finally, relationship type and valence moderated associations in relationships with supervisors but not with colleagues (Study 3). These results support relational discrepancy theory propositions.
Theiler’s virus infection chronically alters seizure susceptibility
Authors: Stewart Kerry‐Ann A. , Wilcox Karen S. , Fujinami Robert S. , White H. Steve
Published: December 2009

Purpose: Central nervous system infections greatly increase the risk for the development of seizures and epilepsy (recurrent unprovoked seizures). We have previously shown that Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus (Theiler’s virus or TMEV) infection causes acute symptomatic seizures in C57BL/6 (B6) mice. The objective of the present study was threefold: (1) to assess pathologic changes associated with acute TMEV infection and infection‐induced seizures, (2) to determine whether Theiler’s virus infection and associated acute seizures lead to chronically altered seizure susceptibility, and (3) to determine whether genetic background influences seizure susceptibility following Theiler’s virus infection.

Methods: Immunohistochemical techniques were used to assess Theiler’s virus antigen localization in the brain and associated neuronal cell death. A battery of electroconvulsive threshold (ECT) tests and corneal kindling studies were conducted to assess whether there were chronic alterations in seizure susceptibility and kindling development. Studies were conducted in both B6 and SJL/J mice to assess strain‐dependent effects.

Results: Histopathologic analyses indicate that TMEV has specific tropism for limbic structures and causes widespread cell death in these regions. Results from ECT studies demonstrate that B6 mice that displayed acute symptomatic seizures have significantly reduced seizure thresholds and kindle faster than either control mice or infected mice without acute seizures. Furthermore, these effects were mouse‐strain dependent, since SJL/J mice displayed a different seizure threshold spectrum.

Discussion: These findings indicate that Theiler’s virus infection leads to chronically altered seizure susceptibility in mice. It is important to note that Theiler’s virus infection of B6 mice represents a novel model to study postinfection hyperexcitability.
Prevalence of epileptiform discharges in healthy children—New data from a prospective study using digital EEG
Authors: Borusiak Peter , Zilbauer Matthias , Jenke Andreas C. W.
Published: December 2009

Purpose:  Data on epileptiform electroencephalography (EEG) discharges in healthy children are limited, with published studies dating back more than 20 years. Moreover, analyses have been performed exclusively using paper‐recorded EEG, and reported prevalences differ significantly. With recent reports using these data as reference suggesting an increased prevalence of epileptiform EEG discharges in children with behavioral disturbances, acquisition of exact prevalence data has become even more critical. The aim of our study was to analyze the frequency of epileptiform EEG discharges in healthy children using digitally recorded EEG (DEEG) and to compare these data to those of previously published studies.

Methods:  Prospective analysis of DEEG was performed in 382 healthy children (226 male, 156 female) ages 6–13 years admitted to our hospital for minor head trauma. Recording was carried out for a minimum of 20 min including hyperventilation and photic stimulation. Analysis was carried out by two board‐certified clinical neurophysiologists.

Results:  Epileptiform EEG discharges were detected in 25 of 382 children (11 of 226 male, 14 of 156 female) corresponding to an overall prevalence of 6.5%. Of these 25 children, 4 had either generalized or bifrontal spikes, 12 showed constant localized focal discharges, and 9 showed multifocal discharges. Compared to previous studies using non‐DEEG recording, the prevalence of epileptiform EEG discharges in our population was significantly higher. No significant difference was found when comparing our data to prevalences recently reported in children with behavioral disturbances using DEEG.

Conclusions:  Our study further highlights the urgent need to reevaluate the prevalence of epileptiform EEG discharges in healthy children using DEEG recordings in a large cohort.
The Role of Primary Care Physicians in Advanced Cancer Care: Perspectives of Older Patients and Their Oncologists
Authors: O'Toole Elizabeth , Step Mary M. , Engelhardt Kathryn , Lewis Steven , Rose Julia Hannum
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVES: To examine data from advanced cancer patients and their oncologists regarding patient age‐related differences in patient and oncologist perspectives on involvement of primary care physicians (PCPs) in aspects of cancer management.

DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial of a support intervention for patients with late‐stage cancer treated in two teaching hospital‐based cancer clinics caring for underserved populations.

PARTICIPANTS: Three hundred fifty‐seven patients who had an oncologist and PCP enrolled 2 to 3 months after an advanced cancer diagnosis.

MEASUREMENTS: Sociodemographic data and structured interviews were used to assess patients' perceptions of PCP involvement in care discussions and decision‐making and satisfaction with that involvement, oncologists' beliefs about how involved PCPs should be in these discussions and decisions, and their shared care practices.

RESULTS: Older patients (≥65) were more likely to have a PCP (P=.02). Patients reported a broad range of perceived PCP involvement and satisfaction with that involvement. Greater involvement was associated with greater satisfaction (P<.001). Half of oncologists reported themselves as PCP for more than 25% of their patients. Approximately half of oncologists reported that more older than younger patients had PCPs, yet only 20% reported differences in PCP involvement or in their communication with PCPs for older late‐stage patients.

CONCLUSION: Results support involvement of PCPs in advanced cancer care and demonstrate variable perspectives on PCP involvement. Matching patient preferences and practices may improve satisfaction. Clarification of elements in the partnership between patients, PCPs, and oncologists will inform efforts to optimally care for older patients with advanced cancer.
Toward Advocacy in Cancer Care for Older Adults: Survivors Have Cautious Personal Actions but Bold Advice for Others
Authors: Kahana Eva , Kahana Boaz , Kelley‐Moore Jessica , Adams Scott A. , Hammel Rachel , Kulle Diana , Brown Jane A. , King Cathie
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVES: To examine narratives of personal coping with the cancer experience and compare them with narratives of advice offered to other cancer patients by community‐dwelling elderly cancer survivors.

DESIGN: Qualitative and quantitative mixed methods.

SETTING: Community.

PARTICIPANTS: Interviews were conducted with 100 elderly adults who had reported cancer diagnosis from among participants of a panel study of 1,107 community‐dwelling elderly adults. Mean age of the sample was 78.7±6.8; 62% were female, and 62% were married.

MEASUREMENTS: Three raters identified consistent themes through content analyses of interviews using a staged content analysis process. Themes reporting personal coping were coded separately from advice respondents would offer to others.

RESULTS: Respondents reported themes of personal coping that corresponded well to previously established modes of problem‐focused and emotion‐focused coping. Themes for personal coping primarily reflected reframing, normalizing, and obtaining social support. Assertive healthcare consumerism and self‐care were seldom reported as personal coping strategies but emerged as important coping approaches, along with positive attitude maintenance, in advice offered to others. Length of survivorship was unrelated to coping strategies.

CONCLUSION: Elderly cancer survivors use passive modes of coping and rely on physicians, family, or cognitive acceptance in coping with cancer, but they offer far more proactive advice to other cancer patients. These findings underscore the importance of physician encouragement of older cancer patient initiative and proactivity in expressing views and preferences. Physicians should offer reassurance that elderly patients' questions and initiatives are welcomed.
Health and Well‐Being in Older Married Female Cancer Survivors
Authors: Townsend Aloen L. , Ishler Karen J. , Bowman Karen F. , Rose Julia Hannum , Peak Nicole Juszczak
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVES: To investigate differences between older married female cancer survivors and a matched comparison sample on physical health and on effects of health on depressive symptomatology.

DESIGN AND SETTING: National survey data from the 1992 Health and Retirement Study.

PARTICIPANTS: Married women who reported having been diagnosed with cancer (N=245) and married women who did not report a cancer diagnosis but who matched the survivors on age, race, and ethnicity (N=245).

MEASUREMENTS: Outcome measure was depressive symptomatology (modified CES‐D). Predictors were multiple indicators of health and demographic characteristics.

RESULTS: Cancer survivors reported significantly worse health on all indicators but not higher depressive symptomatology after health and demographics were controlled. Predictors of higher depression were fatigue, pain, and lower education. These effects did not differ between groups.

CONCLUSION: Health impairment in cancer survivors highlights the need for ongoing follow‐up care. Survivorship was associated indirectly with higher depressive symptomatology through its relationship with health impairment.
International Emergency Medicine: A Review of the Literature From 2008
Authors: Lippert Suzanne , Levine Adam C. , Becker Joseph , Foran Mark , Rosborough Stephanie , Arnold Kris ,   on behalf of the International Emergency Medicine Literature Review Group
Published: December 2009

As the specialty of emergency medicine (EM) continues to evolve in countries around the world, and as interest in international emergency medicine (IEM) continues to grow within the United States, the IEM Literature Review Group recognizes a need for a high‐quality, consolidated, and easily accessible evidence base of literature. In response to that need, the group created an annual publication that strives to provide readers with access to the highest quality and most relevant IEM research. This publication represents our fourth annual review, covering the top 26 IEM research articles published in 2008. Articles were selected for the review according to explicit, predetermined criteria that include both methodologic quality and perceived impact of the research. It is our hope that this annual review will act as a forum for disseminating best practices while also stimulating further research in the field of IEM.
Use of an Automated Device for External Chest Compressions by First‐aid Workers Unfamiliar With the Device: A Step Toward Public Access?
Authors: Lapostolle Frédéric , Agostinucci Jean Marc , Bertrand Philippe , Catineau Jean , Chassery Carine , Kessler Mathieu , Galinski Michel , Adnet Frédéric
Published: December 2009

Objective:  The objective was to establish the feasibility of using an automated external chest compression (ECC) device among first‐aid workers unfamiliar with the device.

Methods:  Eighty first‐aid workers unfamiliar with the Autopulse ECC device were randomized into three groups. Group 1 was given two explanatory illustrations on device use. Group 2 was given four explanatory illustrations. Group 3 was shown a 5‐minute video on the placement and use of the device and allowed to handle the device for 5 minutes. The time taken to place and start the device on a mannequin was recorded.

Results:  There was no significant difference among the three groups with regard to age, sex ratio, experience, and time elapsed since their last training session. No mistakes in device placement were made by any of the groups. All 80 participants started ECC in less than 160 seconds. There was no significant difference between Groups 1 and 2 in time taken to place or start the device (medians and 25–75 percentiles = 72 [54–112] vs. 86 [46–130] seconds and 154 [103–183] vs. 156 [120–197] seconds, respectively). However, Group 3 first‐aid workers obtained significantly better results (19 [16–26] seconds to place and 48 [40–65] seconds to start; p<0.0001).

Conclusions:  An automated ECC device can be rapidly placed and used by first‐aid workers unfamiliar with the device. In the light of these results, use of the device by the general public can be envisaged.
Cutaneous mesenchymal stem cells: status of current knowledge, implications for dermatopathology
Authors: Sellheyer Klaus , Krahl Dieter
Published: December 2009

Stem cell biology is currently making its impact on medicine, which will probably increase over the next decades. It not only influences our therapeutic thinking caused by the enormous plasticity of stem cells but also affects diagnostic and conceptual aspects of dermatopathology. Although our knowledge of the keratinocytic stem cells located within the follicular bulge has exploded exponentially since their discovery in 1990, the concept of cutaneous mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is new. Described initially in 2001 in mice, MSCs later were also found in the human dermis. The connective tissue sheath and the papilla of the hair follicle probably represent the anatomical niche for cutaneous MSCs. In line with the cancer stem cell hypothesis, mutations of these cells may be the underlying basis of mesenchymal skin neoplasms, such as dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans. Furthermore, research on cutaneous MSCs may impact our thinking on the interaction of the epithelial component of skin neoplasms with their surrounding stroma. We are only in the early stages to recognize the importance of the potential contributions of cutaneous MSC research to dermatopathology, but it is not inconceivable to assume that they could be tremendous, paralleling the early discovery of the follicular bulge as a stem cell niche.

Sellheyer K, Krahl D. Cutaneous mesenchymal stem cells: status of current knowledge, implications for dermatopathology.
Till Death Do Us Part: Marital Status and U.S. Mortality Trends, 1986 – 2000
Authors: Liu Hui
Published: December 2009

Although the association of being married and a lower mortality rate has been well established, most previous research on marital status and mortality did not consider potential change in this relationship over time. In this study, I adopted a survey cohort perspective to examine both overall and cause‐specific mortality trends by marital status from 1986 to 2000 in the United States. On the basis of data from the National Health Interview Survey‐Longitudinal Mortality Follow‐up (N = 517,314), I found that mortality generally decreased or remained stable for the married from the 1986 to 2000 NHIS cohort, except for diabetes deaths. There is evidence showing divergent mortality trends between the married and unmarried, especially the widowed. Race and gender variations are examined.
Preconception Motivation and Pregnancy Wantedness: Pathways to Toddler Attachment Security
Authors: Miller Warren B. , Sable Marjorie R. , Beckmeyer Jonathon J.
Published: December 2009

This research was designed to increase our understanding of how the motivational antecedents to childbearing and emotional responses to pregnancy affect the subsequent attachment bond of a toddler to his or her mother. Using a sample of 1,364 mothers and their newborns from the Study of Early Child Care, we tested a mother‐child influence framework hypothesized to mediate between the mother's preconception motivation and pregnancy wantedness and her child's security of attachment at 24 months. Almost all elements of the mediational sequence were confirmed in a structural equation model. We observed 2 unmediated pathways to attachment security, 1 from preconception motivation and 1 from parenting stress during infancy, and suggest interpretations of these unexpected pathways.
Cohesion, Satisfaction With Family Bonds, and Emotional Well‐Being in Families With Adolescents
Authors: Vandeleur C. L. , Jeanpretre N. , Perrez M. , Schoebi D.
Published: December 2009

The present paper investigated whether higher cohesion and satisfaction with family bonds were associated with the daily experience of emotional well‐being in varying social circumstances. Using a sample of school‐age adolescents (N = 95) and both their parents, data were gathered daily over 1 week using a diary approach in addition to self‐report instruments. Multilevel analyses revealed higher cohesion to be associated with well‐being in fathers and adolescents, but not in mothers. Parents also reported higher well‐being when with friends or colleagues than when alone. Moreover, fathers who scored higher on cohesion reported higher well‐being when with family members than when alone, whereas adolescents who scored higher on satisfaction with bonds reported lower well‐being when with peers or siblings than when alone.
Repartnering and (Re)employment: Strategies to Cope With the Economic Consequences of Partnership Dissolution
Authors: Jansen Mieke , Mortelmans Dimitri , Snoeckx Laurent
Published: December 2009

The economic consequences of a partnership dissolution have been described consistently in the research literature. For women all studies indicate severe financial losses, whereas men do not experience income decreases to the same extent. This article focuses on the 2 main strategies to cope with the economic consequences of a separation: repartnering and (re)employment. Using the European Community Household Panel Study we analyzed a sample of 66,292 individuals observed in a relationship of whom 4,925 subsequently separated and assessed the (relative) effect of both strategies in a cross‐national longitudinal perspective. Where men do not benefit financially from cohabiting with a new partner, repartnering proves to outweigh the benefits of reentering the labor force or increasing the working hours for most women. This especially applies to mothers.
The Role of Migration and Single Motherhood in Upper Secondary Education in Mexico
Authors: Creighton Mathew J. , Park Hyunjoon , Teruel Graciela M.
Published: December 2009

We investigated the link between migration, family structure, and the risk of dropping out of upper secondary school in Mexico. Using two waves of the Mexican Family Life Survey, which includes 1,080 upper secondary students, we longitudinally modeled the role of family structure in the subsequent risk of dropping out, focusing on the role of migration in single motherhood. We found that children living without a father because of international migration or divorce or separation are at a greater risk relative to children in 2‐parent households. Economic characteristics of the household provide a partial explanation for children living in single‐mother households because of divorce or separation but do not explain the greater risk of dropping out for children with fathers in the United States.
How family practice physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants incorporate spiritual care in practice
Authors: Tanyi Ruth A. , McKenzie Monica , Chapek Cynthia
Published: December 2009

Purpose: To investigate how primary care family practice providers incorporate spirituality into their practices in spite of documented barriers.

Data Sources: A phenomenological qualitative design was used. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with three physicians, five nurse practitioners, and two physician assistants.

Conclusions: Five major theme clusters emerged: (1) discerning instances for overt spiritual assessment; (2) displaying a genuine and caring attitude; (3) encouraging the use of existing spiritual practices; (4) documenting spiritual care for continuity of care; (5) managing perceived barriers to spiritual care.

Implications for Practice: Findings support that patients' spiritual needs can be addressed in spite of documented barriers. Techniques to assist providers in providing spiritual care are discussed and directions for future research are suggested.
Clinical evaluation tools for dual track adult and gerontology nurse practitioner students
Authors: Cotter Valerie T. , Bradway Christine K. , Cross Deborah , Melissa A. Taylor
Published: December 2009

Purpose: To describe the development of a dual track offering for the Adult Health and Gerontology Nurse Practitioner (AGNP) Programs at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing and share clinical evaluation tools used with nurse practitioner students in this curriculum.

Data sources: Selected research and clinical articles.

Conclusions: A variety of evaluation approaches are utilized in the AGNP student clinical performance evaluation. These incorporate the extended clinical practicum sequence for the dual track curriculum in addition to each individual program's objectives. Formative and summative evaluations include reflective logs, clinical documentation of patient encounters, preceptor evaluation, and faculty site visits. Self‐evaluative skills of the student and quality faculty feedback are two additional integral components that facilitate learning outcomes in the cognitive, psychomotor, and affective learning domains.

Implications for practice: The summary of evaluation tools presented here is an example of how the AGNP Programs at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing effectively measure student progress in a curriculum model for dual track enrollment.
Discussing a sensitive topic: Nurse practitioners' and physician assistants' communication strategies in managing patients with erectile dysfunction
Authors: Green Roger , Kodish Slavica
Published: December 2009

Purpose: To examine strategies used by nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) when discussing the sensitive topic of erectile dysfunction (ED) with patients.

Data sources: A total of 456 NPs and PAs combined responded to a 22‐item online survey posted on NP and PA association websites.

Conclusions: Four derived categories reflect communication strategies that NPs and PAs applied when addressing ED: initiating the topic directly, initiating the topic with an introduction, initiating the topic when there is a high risk factor, and allowing the patient to bring up the topic. There was also interest in continuing education on the topic of ED and a perceived need for greater emphasis on developing communication strategies within the patient–provider relationship.

Implications for practice: There is no one best way to address the topic and different situations may require an approach best suited to the specifics of the situation. Therefore, no single “best practice” of discussing sensitive topics can be identified. Critical thinking skills and the ability to comprehend the totality of the situation are likely to be of higher importance.
Management of laterally displaced proximal tibial physeal fractures in three dogs
Authors: Clements D. N. , Clarke S. P. , Mosley J. R. , Ferguson J. F.
Published: December 2009

Fractures of the proximal tibial physis are uncommon in dogs, and are rarely associated with marked instability and lateral displacement of the proximal tibial epiphysis. Three dogs with proximal tibial physeal fractures demonstrating marked instability and lateral displacement were treated with two different principles of fixation. Healing of the physeal fracture was achieved with rigid internal fixation in one case, and with adaptational osteosynthesis supplemented with a temporary transarticular external skeletal fixator in two cases. Duration of surgery and technical difficulty was reduced using a modified adaptational osteosynthesis approach, suggesting that surgical treatment of these uncommon and challenging fractures may be more appropriately achieved by this technique.
Focal epilepsy in the Belgian shepherd: evidence for simple Mendelian inheritance
Authors: Berendt M. , Gulløv C. H. , Fredholm M.
Published: December 2009

Objectives: To establish the mode of inheritance and describe the clinical features of epilepsy in the Belgian shepherd, taking the outset in an extended Danish dog family (199 individuals) of Groenendael and Tervueren with accumulated epilepsy.

Methods: Epilepsy positive individuals (living and deceased) were ascertained through a telephone interview using a standardised questionnaire regarding seizure history and phenomenology. Living dogs were invited to a detailed clinical evaluation. Litters more than five years of age, or where epilepsy was present in all offspring before the age of five, were included in the calculations of inheritance.

Results: Out of 199 family members, 66 dogs suffered from epilepsy. The prevalence of epilepsy in the family was 33%. Fifty‐five dogs experienced focal seizures with or without secondary generalisation, while four dogs experienced primary generalised seizures. In seven dogs, seizures could not be classified. The mode of inheritance of epilepsy was simple Mendelian.

Clinical Significance: This study identified that the Belgian shepherd suffers from genetically transmitted focal epilepsy. The seizure phenomenology expressed by family members have a strong resemblance to what has been reported for familial partial (focal) epilepsy in humans with variable foci with suggestion of linkage to chromosome 2 and chromosome 22q12.
Hereditary encephalomyelopathy and polyneuropathy in an Alaskan husky
Authors: Wakshlag J. J. , De Lahunta A.
Published: December 2009

An Alaskan husky puppy was examined for a neurologic disease which began at six weeks of age with generalised paresis that progressed resulting in recumbency by 18 weeks. Thoracic limbs primarily exhibited lower motor neuron signs that included distal muscle atrophy and persistent elbow and carpal flexion that resisted manual extension. Pelvic limb signs primarily exhibited upper motor neuron and general proprioceptive deficits, but also included lower motor neuron signs. Abnormal vocalisation suggested a laryngeal paresis. Histopathologic lesions included a diffuse axonopathy and secondary demyelination in the nerves of the limbs and larynx and a similar bilaterally symmetrical degeneration in the spinal cord white matter suggestive of a dying back axonopathy. In addition, a degenerative process was present in nuclei in the brain stem and cerebellum. Recognition of this disease through clinical and pathologic examination in other related Alaskan Huskies suggested an autosomal recessive inherited disorder.
Efalizumab in the Treatment of Scalp, Palmoplantar and Nail Psoriasis: Results of a 24‐Week Latin American Study
Authors: Takahashi María Denise , Chouela Edgardo Néstor , Dorantes Gladys Leon , Roselino Ana Maria , Santamaria Jesùs , Allevato Miguel Angel , Cestari Tania , De Aillaud Maria Eugenia Manzanera , Stengel Fernando Miguel , Licu Daiana
Published: December 2009

Introduction.  Plaque‐type psoriasis affecting the nails, scalp, hands or feet can often be difficult to treat; for example, topical treatments and phototherapy may not penetrate the nail plate or scalp. The objective of this large, international, multicentre study was to investigate the efficacy of efalizumab in a Latin American population of adult patients with moderate‐to‐severe chronic plaque psoriasis who were candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy.

Methods.  Eligible patients were enrolled in a 24‐week, open‐label, single‐arm, Phase IIIb/IV study of continuous treatment with subcutaneous efalizumab, 1.0 mg/kg/wk. Involvement of the nails, scalp, or hands or feet was assessed using the Nail Psoriasis Severity Index (NAPSI), the Psoriasis Scalp Severity Index (PSSI), or the Palmoplantar Pustulosis Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PPPASI), respectively. Missing data were handled using a last observation carried forward or nonresponder imputation approach.

Results.  Of the 189 patients who received treatment, 112 patients had nail involvement, 172 had scalp involvement, and 19 had palmoplantar disease at baseline. At Week 24, ≥50% improvement on the NAPSI, PSSI and PPPASI was observed in 31%, 71% and 68% of patients, respectively, whereas ≥75% improvement on these scores was observed in 17%, 52% and 63%, respectively. Descriptive statistics showed lower NAPSI‐75 and higher PSSI‐75 and ‐50 response rates among patients with higher baseline scores.

Conclusions.  This open‐label, uncontrolled study provides supportive evidence of the potential of efalizumab as a treatment for nail, scalp and palmoplantar psoriasis.
Assisted colonization under the U.S. Endangered Species Act
Authors: Shirey Patrick D. , Lamberti Gary A.
Published: December 2009

Assisted colonization could help prevent the extinction of threatened and endangered species by intentionally moving a species to a region where it has not occurred in the recent past, but should survive under future climate scenarios. Where species are naturally localized and confined to patchy habitats, assisted colonization might be the only means for population dispersal across human landscape barriers such as urban and agriculture areas. The major risk associated with assisted colonization is introducing ecologically harmful species. Previous policy papers have described management options for deciding when to move a species to mitigate for climate change. We build on this previous work by examining management options and policy solutions for assisted colonization under the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA). On its surface, the ESA statutory language appears to provide the legal framework for allowing assisted colonization, as the U.S. Congress gave the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) broad discretion to manage populations of endangered species. However, current USFWS regulations are an impediment to assisted colonization for many endangered animal species, whereas regulations do not necessarily restrict assisted colonization of endangered plants. Because of this discrepancy, we recommend a review of the regulatory language governing movements of endangered species.
Systemic disease associations of familial and sporadic glaucoma: the Glaucoma Inheritance Study in Tasmania
Authors: Hewitt Alex W. , Wu Johnny , Green Catherine M. , Lai Tze , Kearns Lisa S. , Craig Jamie E. , Mackey David A.
Published: December 2009

Background:  This aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of various disease‐associated and potentially modifiable risk factors between people with familial and sporadic forms of primary open angle glaucoma (OAG).

Methods:  A cross‐sectional, retrospective study design was utilized. A detailed questionnaire enquiring about knowledge of family history, demographic data, current medications, and medical history of systemic disorders was administered. Where possible, living relatives were examined for signs of OAG.

Results:  A total of 3,800 potential patients with OAG were identified, of whom 2062 were examined. One thousand twelve (59.5%) subjects were found to have familial OAG, and 688 (40.5%) subjects had no known or identified relative with OAG (sporadic glaucoma). One thousand forty‐two unaffected family members examined. A past history of migraine was found more often with familial OAG (OR: 1.67 95% CI: 1.15–2.42). This effect was primarily driven by patients who had a first‐degree relative also affected by OAG. Following adjustment for male gender and the age at review, the presence of atherosclerosis was also found to be more common in patients with familial glaucoma than in people with sporadic disease (OR: 1.42 95% CI: 1.05–1.92). No significant difference in the prevalence of hypertension, Raynaud’s phenomenon, diabetes mellitus or thyroid disease was identified.

Conclusions:  Patients with a known relative affected by OAG were statistically significantly more likely to have a past history for migraine or presence of atherosclerosis compared to people with no known affected relative. An understanding of such differences and systemic comorbidities will be useful for further work investigating the underlying molecular mechanisms of this disease.
Unsteady Velocity Profiles in Laminar and Turbulent Water Hammer Flows
Authors: Riasi Alireza , Nourbakhsh Ahmad , Raisee Mehrdad
Published: December 2009

The behavior of unsteady velocity profiles in laminar and turbulent water hammer flows is numerically investigated. In this way, the governing equations for the quasitwo-dimensional equations of transient flow in pipe are solved by using the modified implicit characteristics method. A k-ω turbulence model which is accurate for two-dimensional boundary layers under adverse and favorable pressure gradients is applied. The numerical results for both steady and unsteady turbulent pipe flows are in good agreement with the experimental data. The results indicate that both decelerating and accelerating flows are produced in a wave cycle of water hammer. During deceleration of the flow, a region of reverse flows and also strong gradients is formed near to the pipe wall. In case of the turbulent water hammer, this region is very close to the pipe wall compared with the laminar water hammer. Moreover, point of inflection and also point of zero velocity are formed in the unsteady velocity profile due to the water hammer problem. The results show that the point of zero velocity does not move very far from its initial location, while the point of inflection moves rapidly from the wall.
Nanoscale geometry assisted proximity effect correction for electron beam direct write nanolithography
Authors: Ocola L. E.
Published: December 2009

Nanoscale geometry assisted proximity effect correction is presented for nanoscale structures and the results clearly show improvements in feature sharpness down to 20 nm structures. The design rule is simple to implement onto existing PEC software and enables implementation of PEC down to the resolution limits of electron beam lithography.
Reversible shape changes of the end facet on Schottky electron emitters
Authors: Bronsgeest M. S. , Kruit P.
Published: December 2009

The Schottky electron source is predominant in today’s focused electron-beam equipment, but its properties are still not fully understood. Generally, its performance is predicted, assuming its tip end geometry is known and stable. In this work, it is shown that the size of the end facet (slowly) shrinks upon reduction in the extraction voltage and (more rapidly) grows upon restoration of the original voltage. Furthermore, the shape of the end facet could be made to change from more circular to octagonal or more squarish. These changes affect the properties of the beamlet that will be cut from the facet beam for practical applications. Better knowledge of the in situ shape of the emitter allows for a better prediction of its performance and stability.
Evaluation of each electron beam and exposure results with four column cells in multicolumn e-beam exposure system
Authors: Yamada Akio , Yasuda Hiroshi , Yamabe Masaki
Published: December 2009

In the Mask D2I project at ASET, the authors assembled an electron beam exposure system to prove the concept of the multicolumn cell with character projection capability. They performed beam calibrations in individual column cell to evaluate beams after character deflections. They measured the impacts on beam positions in one column cell caused by deflections in other column cells and concluded that there were no deflection impacts on beam positions from neighboring column cells in the multicolumn cell system. They also evaluated stitching errors of the patterns exposed by different column cells. Present stitching errors of the patterns between the different column cells were estimated to be less than 20nm.
Microcolumn design for a large scan field and pixel number
Authors: Weigand H. , Gautsch S. , Strohmaier W. , Fleischer M. , Staufer U. , de Rooij N. F. , Kern D. P.
Published: December 2009

A different approach in microcolumn design is presented, aiming at a large number of pixels at minimal probe size for the deflected beam. An optimization routine resulted in a seven times magnifying column featuring a more than 7×7mm2 scan field at 40mm working distance. Simulations for 1keV electrons from a field emission source predict an increase in beam size from 85nm on axis up to only about 200nm for a beam deflected 3mm off axis. Within a 1mm scan field this microcolumn could address over 100Mpixels of less than 100nm in size. Tests of this design using the 130nm electron probe of a scanning electron microscope as the electron source resulted in a beam size of ∼930nm on axis up to ∼1000nm for a beam deflected 3mm off axis.
Highly selective etching of silicon nitride to physical-vapor-deposited a-C mask in dual-frequency capacitively coupled CH2F2∕H2 plasmas
Authors: Kim J. S. , Kwon B. S. , Heo W. , Jung C. R. , Park J. S. , Shon J. W. , Lee N.-E.
Published: December 2009

A multilevel resist (MLR) structure can be fabricated based on a very thin amorphous carbon (a-C) layer (≅80nm) and Si3N4 hard-mask layer (≅300nm). The authors investigated the selective etching of the Si3N4 layer using a physical-vapor-deposited (PVD) a-C mask in a dual-frequency superimposed capacitively coupled plasma etcher by varying the process parameters in the CH2F2∕H2∕Ar plasmas, viz., the etch gas flow ratio, high-frequency source power (PHF), and low-frequency source power (PLF). They found that under certain etch conditions they obtain infinitely high etch selectivities of the Si3N4 layers to the PVD a-C on both the blanket and patterned wafers. The etch gas flow ratio played a critical role in determining the process window for infinitely high Si3N4∕PVD a-C etch selectivity because of the change in the degree of polymerization. The etch results of a patterned ArF photoresisit/bottom antireflective coating/SiOx∕PVD a-C∕Si3N4 MLR structure supported the idea of using a very thin PVD a-C layer as an etch-mask layer for the Si3N4 hard-mask pattern with a pattern width of ≅80nm and high aspect ratio of ≅5.
Protein Kinase G Controls Brown Fat Cell Differentiation and Mitochondrial Biogenesis
Authors: Haas Bodo , Mayer Peter , Jennissen Katja , Scholz Daniela , Diaz Mauricio Berriel , Bloch Wilhelm , Herzig Stephan , Fässler Reinhard , Pfeifer Alexander
Published: December 2009

PKG regulates differentiation and thermogenic function in brown adipose tissue.
Controlling Synaptogenesis
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: December 2009

A protein tyrosine phosphatase binds to cell adhesion proteins through its ectodomain to promote synapse formation.
Science Signaling
Podcast: 1 December 2009
Authors: Pfeifer Alexander , VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: December 2009

Protein kinase G is required for the differentiation and fat-burning function of brown adipose tissue.
Efficacy of Clarithromycin against Experimentally Induced Pneumonia Caused by Clarithromycin-Resistant
Haemophilus influenzae
in Mice
Authors: Nakamura Shigeki , Yanagihara Katsunori , Araki Nobuko , Yamada Koichi , Morinaga Yoshitomo , Izumikawa Koichi , Seki Masafumi , Kakeya Hiroshi , Yamamoto Yoshihiro , Kamihira Shimeru , Kohno Shigeru
Published: December 2009

Clarithromycin is a 14-member lactone ring macrolide with potent activity against
Haemophilus influenzae
, including ampicillin-resistant strains. We evaluated the
in vivo
efficacy of clarithromycin at 40 mg/day and 100 mg/day for 3 days in the treatment of a murine model of pneumonia using a macrolide-resistant
H. influenzae
strain, which was also ampicillin resistant. The MIC of clarithromycin was 64 μg/ml. The viable bacterial counts in infected tissues after treatment with 100 mg clarithromycin/kg of body weight were lower than the counts obtained in control and 40-mg/kg clarithromycin-treated mice. The concentrations of macrophage inflammatory protein 2 (MIP-2) and interleukin 1β (IL-1β) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples from mice treated at both concentrations were lower than in the control group. Pathologically, following infection, clarithromycin-treated mice, particularly at a dose of 100 mg/kg, showed lower numbers of neutrophils in alveolar walls, and inflammatory changes had apparently improved, whereas large aggregates of inflammatory cells were observed within the alveoli of control mice. In addition, we demonstrated that clarithromycin has bacteriological effects against intracellular bacteria at levels below the MIC. Our results indicate that clarithromycin may be useful
in vivo
for macrolide-resistant
H. influenzae
, and this phenomenon may be related to the good penetration of clarithromycin into bronchoepithelial cells. We also believe that conventional drug susceptibility tests may not reflect the
in vivo
effects of clarithromycin.
Therapy of Murine Pulmonary Aspergillosis with Antibody-Alliinase Conjugates and Alliin
Authors: Appel Elena , Vallon-Eberhard Alexandra , Rabinkov Aharon , Brenner Ori , Shin Irina , Sasson Keren , Shadkchan Yona , Osherov Nir , Jung Steffen , Mirelman David
Published: December 2009

Aspergillus fumigatusis an opportunistic fungal pathogen responsible for invasive aspergillosis in immunocompromised individuals. The high morbidity and mortality rates as well as the poor efficacy of antifungal agents remain major clinical concerns. Allicin (diallyl-dithiosulfinate), which is produced by the garlic enzyme alliinase from the harmless substrate alliin, has been shown to have wide-range antifungal specificity. A monoclonal antibody (MAb) againstA. fumigatuswas produced and chemically ligated to the enzyme alliinase. The purified antibody-alliinase conjugate bound to conidia and hyphae ofA. fumigatusat nanomolar concentrations. In the presence of alliin, the conjugate produced cytotoxic allicin molecules, which killed the fungus.In vivotesting of the therapeutical potential of the conjugate was carried out in immunosuppressed mice infected intranasally with conidia ofA. fumigatus.Intratracheal (i.t.) instillation of the conjugate and alliin (four treatments) resulted in 80 to 85% animal survival (36 days), with almost complete fungal clearance. Repetitive intratracheal administration of the conjugate and alliin was also effective when treatments were initiated at a more advanced stage of infection (50 h). The fungi were killed specifically without causing damage to the lung tissue or overt discomfort to the animals. Intratracheal instillation of the conjugate without alliin or of the unconjugated monoclonal antibody significantly delayed the death of the infected mice, but only 20% of the animals survived. A limitation of this study is that the demonstration was achieved in a constrained setting. Other routes of drug delivery will be investigated for the treatment of pulmonary and extrapulmonary aspergillosis.
Diverse Cadmium Resistance Determinants in
Listeria monocytogenes
Isolates from the Turkey Processing Plant Environment
Authors: Mullapudi S. , Siletzky R. M. , Kathariou S.
Published: December 2009

Two different
cadA
cadmium resistance determinants (
cadA1
, first identified in Tn
5422
, and
cadA2
, associated with pLM80) were detected among cadmium-resistant
Listeria monocytogenes
strains from turkey processing plants. Prevalence of
cadA1
versus
cadA2
was serotype associated. Cadmium-resistant isolates that were also resistant to benzalkonium chloride (BC) were more likely to harbor
cadA2
alone or together with
cadA1
than isolates that were cadmium resistant but BC susceptible.
Use of Green Fluorescent Protein To Monitor Cell Envelope Stress in
Lactococcus lactis
Authors: Campelo Ana Belén , Rodríguez Ana , Martínez Beatriz
Published: December 2009

A
Lactococcus lactis
reporter system suitable to detect cell envelope stress in high-throughput settings was developed by fusing the CesR-regulated promoter of
llmg0169
to the

gfp
uv

gene. A dot blot assay allowed fast detection of green fluorescent protein (GFP) fluorescence even at low production levels. Unexpectedly, this promoter was also induced by mitomycin C via CesR.