bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidermal growth factor receptor mutation‐specific immunohistochemical antibodies in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Allo Ghassan , Bandarchi Bizhan , Yanagawa Naoki , Wang Ami , Shih Warren , Xu Jing , Dalby Morgan , Nitta Hiroaki , To Christine , Liu Ni , Sykes Jenna , Tsao Ming S
Published: November 2013

Aims

We investigated the sensitivity and specificity of two novel Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation‐specific antibodies in the detection of the most common EGFR mutations in lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods and results

A total of 241 resected lung adenocarcinoma specimens and six resected post‐neoadjuvant gefitinib adenocarcinomas were analysed for EGFR mutation using mass spectrometry, fragment analysis and direct PCR sequencing platforms. Tissue arrays and/or full sections of these cases were evaluated using immunohistochemistry with two novel antibodies (clones SP125 and SP111) and two previously reported antibodies (clones 43B2 and 6B6), specific for L858R or 15‐nucleotide exon‐19 deletion EGFR mutations. SP125 antibody detected EGFR L858R mutation with a sensitivity of 76% and positive predictive value of 73%. SP111 antibody stained the 15‐nucleotide EGFR exon‐19 deletions with a sensitivity of 83% and a positive predictive value of 94%. Pretreatment with gefitinib did not affect antibody performance. Full‐section immunohistochemical staining detected heterogeneous mutant EGFR proteins expression in tumours, and revealed L858R mutation in the non‐neoplastic bronchial epithelium adjacent to EGFR L858R‐carrying carcinomas in three of 16 (19%) cases.

Conclusions

Immunohistochemistry using EGFR mutant‐specific antibodies may be useful in shortening the diagnostic time of lung adenocarcinoma with most common EGFR mutations, especially in samples with low tumour cellularity.
Microstructural, Physical, and Fluid Dynamic Assessment of Spinel‐Based and Phosphate‐Bonded Investments for Dental Applications
Authors: Innocentini Murilo D. M. , Chacon Welton S. , Caldato Rafael. F. , Paula Gustavo R. , Adabo Gelson L.
Published: November 2013

This work reports the experimental evaluation of physical and gas permeation parameters of four spinel‐based investments developed with or without inclusion of sacrificial fillers. Data were compared with those of three commercial formulations. Airflow tests were conducted from 27 to 546°C, and permeability coefficients were fitted from Forchheimer's equation. Skeletal densities found for spinel‐ (ρs = 3635 ± 165 kg/m3) and phosphate‐bonded (ρs = 2686 ± 11 kg/m3) samples were in agreement with the literature. The developed investments were more porous and less permeable than commercial brands, and the differences were ascribed to the different pore morphologies and hydraulic pore sizes of ceramic matrices. The inclusion of both fibers and microbeads resulted in increases of total porosity (42.6–56.6%) and of Darcian permeability coefficient k1 (0.76 × 10−14–7.03 × 10−14 m2). Air permeation was hindered by increasing flow temperatures, and the effect was related to the influence of gas viscosity on ΔP, in accordance with Darcy's law. Casting quality with molten titanium (CP Ti) was directly proportional to the permeability level of the spinel‐based investments. However, the high reactivity of the silica‐based investment RP and the formation of α‐case during casting hindered the benefits of the highest permeability level of this commercial brand.
Glass‐Ceramic Composites from Borosilicate Glass and Alumina‐Rich Residues
Authors: Chinnam Rama Krishna , Boccaccini Aldo R. , Bernardo Enrico , Epstein Howard
Published: November 2013

Valoxy, an alumina‐rich waste, was mixed with borosilicate glass (BSG) powder in 10, 20, and 30 wt% concentrations. Sintering was carried out at 850 and 950°C for 30 min. Glass‐ceramics (GC) were characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy. Diametral compression strength (DCS) tests were performed on sintered samples before and after thermal shock. GC samples containing calcined Valoxy showed superior properties in all compositions and processing temperatures compared with samples containing as‐received Valoxy. Maximum density of 2.2 g/cm3, water absorption below 1 wt% and DCS of ~24MPa were measured for 10 wt% calcined Valoxy + BSG GC composites sintered at 850°C.
RNA‐sequencing analysis reveals abundant developmental stage‐specific and immunity‐related genes in the pollen beetle Meligethes aeneus
Authors: Vogel H. , Badapanda C. , Knorr E. , Vilcinskas A.
Published: November 2013

The pollen beetle (Meligethes aeneus) is a major pest of oilseed rape (Brassica napus) and other cruciferous crops in Europe. Pesticide‐resistant pollen beetle populations are emerging, increasing the economic impact of this species. We isolated total RNA from the larval and adult stages, the latter either naïve or immunized by injection with bacteria and yeast. High‐throughput RNA sequencing (RNA‐Seq) was carried out to establish a comprehensive transcriptome catalogue and to screen for developmental stage‐specific and immunity‐related transcripts. We assembled the transcriptome de novo by combining sequence tags from all developmental stages and treatments. Gene expression data based on normalized read counts revealed several functional gene categories that were differentially expressed between larvae and adults, particularly genes associated with digestion and detoxification that were induced in larvae, and genes associated with reproduction and environmental signalling that were induced in adults. We also identified many genes associated with microbe recognition, immunity‐related signalling and defence effectors, such as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and lysozymes. Digital gene expression analysis revealed significant differences in the profile of AMPs expressed in larvae, naïve adults and immune‐challenged adults, providing insight into the steady‐state differences between developmental stages and the complex transcriptional remodelling that occurs following the induction of immunity. Our data provide insight into the adaptive mechanisms used by phytophagous insects and could lead to the development of more effective control strategies for insect pests.
Similar, but still different: how US multinational companies in Germany and Switzerland use host‐country training and skill practices
Authors: Kluike Marlies , Pull Kerstin
Published: November 2013

We examine in how far US subsidiaries in Germany and Switzerland display characteristics of a strategic fit with their host country and mostly find support for our predictions. Subsequently we determine each subsidiary's host‐country fit and test for within country differences in using local training and skill practices. We find the extent of continuing vocational education and training and the extent to which training on the job is important to vary with host‐country fit in Germany, while in Switzerland, as predicted, we find no such relations.
Diabetic foot wounds: the value of negative pressure wound therapy with instillation
Authors: Dalla Paola Luca
Published: November 2013

Chronic wounds such as diabetic foot wounds are a tremendous burden to the health care system and often require a multidisciplinary approach to prevent amputations. Advanced technologies such as negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) and bioengineered tissues have been successfully used in the treatment of these types of complex wounds. However, the introduction of NPWT with instillation (NPWTi) has provided an alternative treatment for treating complex and difficult‐to‐heal wounds. This article provides an overview of NPWT and the new NPWTi system and describes preliminary experience using NPWTi on patients with complicated infected diabetic foot wounds after surgical debridement and in a multidisciplinary setting.
Surgical site infections: epidemiology and microbiological aspects in trauma and orthopaedic surgery
Authors: Cooper Rose A
Published: November 2013

Causative agents of wound infections and the routes by which they access surgical incision sites have been recognised for more than a century. Despite knowledge of the factors that influence the risks of surgical site infections (SSIs) and the means to prevent and/or control them, surgical patients still get infections. Traditional systems of classifying and diagnosing SSIs and the diversity of microbial flora reported in contemporary SSIs will be described. Strategies available to prevent and control SSIs will be critically reviewed and the need to develop alternative approaches will be discussed.
The effect of negative pressure wound therapy with periodic instillation using antimicrobial solutions on Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm on porcine skin explants
Authors: Phillips Priscilla L , Yang Qingping , Schultz Gregory S
Published: November 2013

Negative pressure wound therapy with instillation (NPWTi) is increasingly used as an adjunct therapy for a wide variety of infected wounds. However, the effect of NPWTi on mature biofilm in wounds has not been determined. This study assessed the effects of NPWTi using saline or various antimicrobial solutions on mature Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm using an ex vivo porcine skin explant biofilm model. Treatment consisted of six cycles with 10‐minute exposure to instillation solution followed by 4 hours of negative pressure at −125 mm Hg over a 24‐hour period. NPWTi using saline reduced bacterial levels by 1‐log (logarithmic) of 7‐log total colony‐forming units (CFUs). In contrast, instillation of 1% povidone iodine (2‐log), L‐solution (3‐log), 0·05% chlorhexidine gluconate (3‐log), 0·1% polyhexamethylene biguanide (4‐log), 0·2% polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (4‐log) and 10% povidone iodine (5‐log), all significantly reduced (P < 0·001) total CFUs. Scanning electron micrographs showed disrupted exopolymeric matrix of biofilms and damaged bacterial cells that correlated with CFU levels. Compared with previous studies assessing microbicidal effects of topical antimicrobial dressings on biofilms cultured on porcine skin explants, these ex vivo model data suggest that NPWTi with delivery of active antimicrobial agents enhances the reduction of CFUs by increasing destruction and removal of biofilm bacteria. These results must be confirmed in human studies.
Recommendations on negative pressure wound therapy with instillation and antimicrobial solutions – when, where and how to use: what does the evidence show?
Authors: Back David A , Scheuermann‐Poley Catharina , Willy Christian
Published: November 2013

Infections of contaminated or colonised acute or chronic wounds remain a grave risk for patients even today. Despite modern surgical debridement concepts and antibiotics, a great need exists for new therapies in wound management. Since the late 1990s, advantageous effects of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) have been combined with local antiseptic wound cleansing in the development of NPWT with instillation (NPWTi). This article summarises the current scientific knowledge on this topic. MEDLINE literature searches were performed on the subject of negative pressure wound and instillation therapy covering publications from the years 1990 to 2013 (36 peer‐reviewed citations) and regarding randomised controlled trials (RCTs) covering wound care with bone involvement (27 publications) or soft‐tissue wounds without bone participation (11 publications) from 2005 to 2012. The use of NPWTi in the therapy of infected wounds appears to be not yet widespread, and literature is poor and inhomogeneous. However, some reports indicate an outstanding benefit of NPWTi for patients, using antiseptics such as polyhexanide (concentration 0·005–0·04%) and acetic acid (concentration 0·25–1%) in acute and chronic infected wounds and povidone‐iodine (10% solution) as prophylaxis in contaminated wounds with potential viral infection. Soaking times are recommended to be 20 minutes each, using cycle frequencies of four to eight cycles per day. Additionally, the prophylactic use of NPWTi with these substances can be recommended in contaminated wounds that cannot be closed primarily with surgical means. Although first recommendations may be given currently, there is a great need for RCTs and multicentre studies to define evidence‐based guidelines for an easier approach to reach the decision on how to use NPWTi.
Serum 27E10 antigen: a new potential marker for staging HIV disease
Authors: LÜGERING N , STOLL R , KUCHARZIK T , BURMEISTER G , SORG C , DOMSCHKE W
Published: November 2013

MRP8 and MRP14 are myeloic related proteins expressed by most circulating and emigrated neutrophils and monocytes. Their composite molecule MRP8/14 (27E10 antigen) was shown to exhibit striking antimicrobial properties. The aim of the present study was to assess the value of MRPs as markers for detection of the different stages of HIV infection (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 1993). By employing the ELISA technique we measured serum concentrations of these proteins in samples from 122 HIV patients at the various stages of disease, and the results were compared with those for healthy controls. Serum levels of the heterodimeric molecule 27E10 were significantly increased (P < 0·001) in patients with CDC stages II and III, with the highest levels being in patients with stage III and acute ongoing opportunistic infections. For the single component MRP14, significantly raised levels (P < 0·05) were only found in HIV stage III individuals with acute clinical events. Similar associations were not found for MRP8 alone. Increase was not related to CD4+ cell count. There was a significant correlation between 27E10 antigen serum concentrations and levels of neopterin in patients with HIV stages II and III without acute concurrent illness. Patients being treated with Zidovudine showed no statistically significant variation in levels of 27E10 and its single components MRP8 and MRP14 compared with untreated patients. These findings suggest that elevation of MRP14 levels occurs in HIV+ individuals at later stages post-HIV infection, after the onset of opportunistic infections. 27E10 antigen is concluded to be a potential marker for the different stages of HIV disease.
Prominent proliferative response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to a recombinant non-structural (NS3) protein of hepatitis C virus in patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: YANG P-M , HWANG L-H , LAI M-Y , HUANG W-L , CHU Y-D , CHI W-K , CHIANG B-L , KAO J-H , CHEN P-J , CHEN D-S
Published: November 2013

The proliferative response of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) to a recombinant non-structural (NS3) protein of hepatitis C virus (HCV) was studied in 41 patients with chronic hepatitis C. Of them, 28 had chronic persistent hepatitis (CPH) and 13 chronic active hepatitis (CAH). The positive proliferation rate of PBMC to the recombinant NS3 protein, T9Ag, was 66% in the 41 patients (77% in CAH versus 61 % in CPH; P > 0·05) when stimulation index (SI) = 4 was set as the cut-off value. However, mean SI of CAH patients was significantly higher than that of CPH patients (8·3 ± 5·2 versus 5·1 ± 3·6; P < 0·05). Six other chronic hepatitis patients who were repeatedly negative for anti-HCV antibody but positive for serum HCV RNA also had an SI of ≥ 4·0. The frequency of cellular immune response to the T9Ag is among the highest results obtained by using HCV antigens tested so far. Our studies thus indicate that NS3 is an immunologically important region of HCV for T cells. Moreover, the proliferative response to T9Ag may help to establish hepatitis C etiology in chronic hepatitis patients who are seronegative with currently available anti-HCV assays.
Human monoclonal antibodies for the immunological characterization of a highly conserved protein domain of the hepatitis C virus glycoprotein E1
Authors: SIEMONEIT K , CARDOSO M DA SILVA , KOERNER K , WÖLPL A , KUBANEK B
Published: November 2013

Although both envelope glycoproteins of the hepatitis C virus, E1 and E2/NS1, show a high degree of sequence variation, the E1 protein includes a well conserved domain, which may be functionally important. We have analysed the human B cell response to a peptide fragment from amino acid residues 314–330 (EP3) covering the central conserved sequence of this domain. Anti-hepatitis C virus-positive blood donors were screened for anti-EP3 antibodies with an ELISA based on immobilized peptide. Thirty out of 92 (32%) RIBA-confirmed donors displayed a significant antibody response to EP3. From three of these blood donors we established four anti-EP3-producing heterohybridoma cell lines: U1/F30 and U1/F31 produced IgM-κ, whereas U1/F32 and U1/F33 secreted the isotypes IgG1-λ and IgG1-κ, respectively. Epitope analysis with overlapping nonapeptides suggests the existence of different antigenic determinants within the EP3 fragment. Although both IgG antibodies U1/F32 and U1/F33 have dissociation constants to the peptide of ∼ 10−9 M, binding to recombinant E1 protein expressed in COS-7 cells was different. Only U1/F33 detected envelope protein of ∼ 24–35 kD in Western blot. This human MoAb will be useful for further investigations on the hepatitis C virus glycoprotein E1.
CD5 expression on B cells may be an activation marker for secretion of anti-myelin antibodies in patients with polyneuropathy associated with monoclonal gammopathy
Authors: EKERFELT C , ERNERUDH J , SOLDERS G , VRETHEM M
Published: November 2013

B cells expressing the CD5 marker belong to a subpopulation with potential autoreactive properties. Increased proportions of CD5+ B cells have been reported in autoimmune diseases. In patients with monoclonal gammopathy and demyelinating polyneuropathy, the M-component often consists of autoantibodies reacting with myelin components. We therefore investigated if CD5+ B cells were involved in the production of anti-myelin antibodies. There was no difference of mean value of CD5+ B cells between patients and controls. However, the proportion of CD5+ B cells was significantly correlated with the amount of anti-myelin antibodies. In seven patients, CD5+ B cells were enriched using an immunomagnetic technique. The number of CD5+ and CD5− B cells secreting anti-myelin antibodies was determined by ELISPOT. In two patients with high levels of antibodies, antibody-secreting cells were mainly, but not exclusively, CD5+ B cells. In five patients with low levels of antibodies, most cells secreting anti-myelin antibodies were CD5−. We conclude that CD5 expressed on B cells may be an activation marker, reflecting B cells producing high amounts of anti-myelin antibodies in patients with polyneuropathy associated with monoclonal gammopathy.
LAPAROSCOPIC NEPHRECTOMY USING A RETROPERITONEAL APPROACH: COMPARISON WITH A TRANSABDOMINAL APPROACH
Authors: Ono Yoshinari , Ohshima Shinichi , Hirabayashi Satoshi , Hatano Yukio , Sakakibara Toshibumi , Kobayashi Hiroaki , Ichikawa Yasuji
Published: November 2013

To evaluate the efficacy of the retroperitoneal approach in laparoscopic nephrectomy, our procedures involving laparoscopic nephrectomy using a retroperitoneal approach are described and the clinical results of six patients treated in this way are compared with those of 32 transabdominally nephrectomized patients. Of the six retroperitoneally nephrectomized patients, six kidneys were successfully removed without severe complication, and 28 kidneys were successfully removed in the 32 intraabdominally approached group. Three of the 28 patients had complications requiring open laparotomy. The operating time was 2.7 hours in the 6 retroperitoneal patients and 4.4 hours in the 28 transabdominal patients. Estimated blood loss was 92 ml in the retroperitoneal group and 450 ml in the transabdominal group. The mean postoperative hospital stay was 8 days and 9 days, respectively. These results indicate that the retroperitoneal approach might be preferable in laparoscopic nephrectomy.
TRANSURETHRAL MICROWAVE THERMOTHERAPY FOR BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA: CLINICAL RESULTS AFTER A 1‐YEAR FOLLOW‐UP
Authors: Terai Akito , Arai Yoichi , Onishi Hiroyuki , Oishi Kenji , Takeuchi Hideo , Yoshida Osamu
Published: November 2013

Since September 1992, 63 patients with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have been treated with transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT) using the Prostatron device. The International Prostate Symptom Score (l‐PSS) and quality of life (QOL) score were used to evaluate subjective symptoms. The mean l‐PSS (total, irritative and obstructive scores) and QOL scores had decreased by 40, 38, 45 and 40%, respectively, at 12 months (p < 0.0001). While the mean peak flow rate had increased by 72% (p < 0.001). The clinical efficacy at 12 months was 42%, using a modification of the response criteria proposed at the 2nd International Consultation on Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia. There were no significant differences in the baseline and treatment parameters between those who responded favorably to TUMT and those who did not. The total thermal dose delivered to the prostate did not predict clinical response. However, there was a positive correlation between l‐PSS or QOL at baseline and % reduction at 3, 6 and 12 months, and a negative correlation between peak flow rate at baseline and % increase at 3 and 6 months. There were no major complications associated with TUMT during the follow‐up period. In summary, our 1‐year clinical results are compatible with previous reports, suggesting that TUMT is a safe, effective and lasting non‐surgical treatment for BPH. However, evaluation of efficacy should be based on uniform criteria to facilitate comparisons of different clinical trials. The most suitable patient profiles for TUMT could not be identified by retrospective analysis.
TRANSURETHRAL BALLOON LASER HYPERTHERMIA FOR CHRONIC NON‐BACTERIAL PROSTATITIS: A CLINICAL TRIAL
Authors: Suzuki Takanori , Kurokawa Kohei , Suzuki Kazuhiro , Matsumoto Kazuhisa , Yamanaka Hidetoshi
Published: November 2013

Transurethral balloon laser hyperthermia (TUBAL‐H) was performed on five patients with chronic non‐bacterial prostatitis who failed to respond to conventional treatment administered for more than two years. The prostatic interstitial temperature during treatment was measured and the safety and efficacy of this treatment was assessed. TUBAL‐H was performed at a target temperature of 43°C (5 mm depth) and at a laser power of 30 watts with urethral cooling for 20 min in the first three patients and for 30 min in the remaining two patients. The prostatic interstitial temperature at a depth of about 5 mm from the urethral surface ranged from 40.5 to 43.0°C during treatment. The temperature of the urethra ranged from 31.5 to 39°C and that of the rectum remained below 39.5°C. After treatment, no abnormal findings were noted in any of the hematological and biological tests carried out, including prostatic specific antigen. The leukocyte count in expressed prostatic secretions fell to less than five cells per high‐power field in four of the five patients after three months. A complete improvement in symptoms was observed in one patient, partial improvement in three, and no improvement in one. Based on these results, TUBAL‐H was considered to be safe and a suitable treatment for patients with chronic prostatitis.
Hemipelvectomy: Outcome in 84 dogs and 16 cats. A veterinary society of surgical oncology retrospective study
Authors: Bray Jonathan P. , Worley Deanna R. , Henderson Ralph A. , Boston Sarah E. , Mathews Kyle G. , Romanelli Giorgio , Bacon Nicholas J. , Liptak Julius M. , Scase Tim J.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To report clinical findings, perioperative complications and long‐term outcome in dogs and cats that had hemipelvectomy surgery for treatment of neoplasia.

Study Design

Multi‐institutional retrospective case series.

Animals

Dogs (n = 84) and cats (16).

Methods

Medical records (January 2000 to December 2009) of dogs and cats that had hemipelvectomy at participating institutions were reviewed. Postoperative progress and current status of the patient at the time of the study was determined by either medical record review, or via telephone contact with the referring veterinarian or owner.

Results

Complications were infrequent and usually minor. Hemorrhage was the main intraoperative complication; 2 dogs required blood transfusion. One dog developed an incisional hernia. In dogs, hemangiosarcoma had the worst prognosis with a median survival time (MST) of 179 days. MST for chondrosarcoma (1232 days), osteosarcoma (533 days), and soft tissue sarcoma (373 days) were not statistically different. Median disease‐free interval (DFI) for local recurrence of all tumor types was 257 days. Cats had 75% survival at 1 year, which was significantly longer than dogs.

Conclusions

Survival times for most tumor types can be good, but surgical margins should be carefully evaluated to ensure complete tumor removal. Adjuvant therapies may be advisable particularly for dogs to reduce rates of local recurrence or distant metastasis.
Human semen cryopreservation: a sperm DNA fragmentation study with alkaline and neutral Comet assay
Authors: Ribas‐Maynou J. , Fernández‐Encinas A. , García‐Peiró A. , Prada E. , Abad C. , Amengual M. J. , Navarro J. , Benet J.
Published: November 2013

Sperm cryopreservation is widely used for both research and reproduction purposes, but its effect on sperm DNA damage remains controversial. Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) has become an important biomarker to assess male infertility. In particular, the differentiation between single‐ and double‐stranded DNA fragmentation (ssSDF and dsSDF) has clinical implications for male infertility where ssSDF is associated with reduced fertility, whereas dsSDF is associated with increased risk of miscarriage. In this study, semen samples from 30 human males have been analysed in both fresh and cryopreserved using the alkaline and neutral Comet assays. Results show an increase of about 10% of ssSDF, assessed by the alkaline Comet assay, regardless of the male fertility status. Neutral Comet analysis of dsSDF does not show any statistical increase when comparing fresh and cryopreserved samples in any of the patient groups. Results support previous reports that oxidative stress is the major effector in DNA damage during sample cryopreservation, as, on one hand, ssSDF has previously been related to oxidative damage and, on the other hand, we have not found any effect on dsSDF. Therefore, there might be a slight risk of decreased fertility after using a freezed sample, but no evidence for increased miscarriage risk from cryopreserved spermatozoa should be expected.
Parent Depression Symptoms and Child Temperament Outcomes: A Family Study Approach
Authors: Gagne Jeffrey R. , Spann Catherine A. , Prater Jerry C.
Published: November 2013

Parent personality and depression, family conflict, and child temperament were examined in a family study design including two children 2.5–5.5 years of age. Sibling resemblance for temperament was also investigated. Parent personality and family conflict had minimal significance for child temperament outcomes. However, parent depression was associated with higher child activity level and anger, and lower inhibitory control. These findings were supported by more rigorous regression analyses that included parent depression, child gender, and age as predictors. Sibling resemblance for child activity, anger and inhibitory control was also present, supporting a genetic etiology for child temperament. These findings indicate that children of depressed parents may be at increased risk for experiencing behavioral maladjustment related to anger, hyperactivity, and impulse control.
Building an Inclusive Research Team: The Importance of Team Building and Skills Training
Authors: Strnadová Iva , Cumming Therese M. , Knox Marie , Parmenter Trevor
Published: November 2013

Background

Inclusive research teams typically describe their experiences and analyse the type of involvement of researchers with disability, but the process of building research teams and the need for research training still remain underexplored in the literature.

Materials and Method

Four researchers with intellectual disabilities and four academic researchers developed an inclusive research team. The team conducted 15 research training sessions, focused on investigating the well‐being of older women with intellectual disabilities. They used mobile technology to support research skills acquisition.

Results

Findings included the experiences of all team members regarding the team building during training.

Conclusions

To become an effective inclusive research team, all team members, regardless of ability, need to bring their own experiences and also learn necessary research skills. This paper highlights the need for team building, joint research training among all members of the research team and strategies supporting the peer‐mentoring within the team.

Accessible Abstract

We are a team of four researchers with intellectual disabilities and four academic researchers without an intellectual disability.

Our aim has been to learn about research together. We want to do this so that we can carry out a research project together about how older women with intellectual disabilities live. We have decided to call our team ‘Welcome to our Class’.

We have been working together for 9 months. In this time we have had 15 research training meetings.

We have learned

What research is

How to work out a research question, that is what we want to find out about

How to get information on what we want to find out. Here we thought of interview questions we could ask older women with intellectual disabilities.

We are now meeting once a month, and have just begun our research on finding out how older women with intellectual disabilities live. We are now starting to use what we have learned.
The effects of sleep extension and sleep hygiene advice on sleep and depressive symptoms in adolescents: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dewald‐Kaufmann J.F. , Oort F.J. , Meijer A.M.
Published: November 2013

Objective

Sleep problems are common and persistent during adolescence and can have negative effects on adolescents' mood. To date, studies that investigate the effects of sleep extension on adolescents' sleep and depressive symptoms are still lacking. This study aims to investigate the effects of gradual sleep extension combined with sleep hygiene advice in adolescents with chronic sleep reduction on objectively measured sleep, self‐reported sleep problems and depressive symptoms.

Methods

Fifty‐five adolescents with chronic sleep reduction (mean age: 15.44 years; 85.5% females) were included in the study. Participants were randomly assigned to either a sleep extension group (gradual sleep extension by advancing bedtimes in the evening and receiving sleep hygiene advice) or to a control group (no instruction). Sleep was measured with actigraphy during three weeks, the first week was the baseline week, and the last two weeks were the experimental weeks during which sleep was extended. Other outcome variables were self‐reported sleep problems (daytime sleepiness, symptoms of insomnia and circadian rhythm sleep disorder) and depressive symptoms, which were assessed before and after the experimental manipulation.

Results

During the third week of the experiment, adolescents in the sleep extension group had earlier bedtimes, earlier sleep onsets, spent more time in bed and slept longer than adolescents in the control group. Their chronic sleep reduction, insomnia symptoms and depressive symptoms diminished significantly. In addition, there was a trend of improved circadian rhythm sleep disorder symptoms and sleep quality.

Conclusion

Gradual sleep extension combined with sleep hygiene advice seems to have beneficial effects on sleep, self‐reported sleep problems and depressive symptoms of adolescents with chronic sleep reduction. Although we cannot distinguish between the effects of sleep extension and sleep hygiene advice, the results suggest that advancing bedtimes can extend sleep and improve depressive symptoms.
Effects of metabolic rate and sperm competition on the fatty‐acid composition of mammalian sperm
Authors: delBarco‐Trillo J. , Roldan E. R. S.
Published: November 2013

The sperm membrane is a key structure affecting sperm function and thus reproductive success. Spermatozoa are highly specialized and differentiated cells that undergo a long series of processes in the male and female reproductive tracts until they reach the site of fertilization. During this transit, the sperm membrane is prone to damage such as lipid peroxidation. The characteristics and performance of the sperm membrane are strongly determined by the fatty‐acid composition of membrane phospholipids. Polyunsaturated fatty‐acids (PUFAs) are the most prone to lipid peroxidation. Lipid peroxidation and other types of oxidative damage increase with higher metabolism and with higher levels of sperm competition due to the increasedATPproduction to fuel higher sperm velocities. Consequently, we hypothesized that, in order to avoid oxidative damage, and the ensuing impairment of sperm function, sperm cells exhibit a negative relationship betweenPUFAcontent and mass‐specific metabolic rate (MSMR). We also hypothesized that higher sperm competition leads to a reduction in the proportion of spermPUFAs. We performed a comparative study in mammals and found that highMSMRand high levels of sperm competition both promote a decrease in the proportion ofPUFAs that are more prone to lipid peroxidation. The negative relationship betweenMSMRand thesePUFAs in sperm cells is surprising, because a positive relationship is found in all other cell types so far investigated. Our results support the idea that the effects ofMSMRand sperm competition on sperm function can operate at very different levels.
Hygroscopic Properties of Orange Pulp and Peel
Authors: Casciatori Fernanda Perpétua , Laurentino Carmem Lúcia , da Costa Karen Kristhine Leal , Casciatori Priscila Aparecida , Thoméo João Cláudio
Published: November 2013

This contribution addresses the hygroscopic properties of orange pulp and peel (OPP), an agro‐industrial by‐product used for pectinase and phytase production by solid‐state fermentation (SSF). Experiments were carried out using the static gravimetric method and the modifiedHalsey model best fitted to the experimental data.Bates andWatts curvature measurements,Box parameter bias estimation and residual analysis were performed in order to validate the model and the estimated parameters. Desorption experiments were also carried out and the results showed that drying took place even at high air relative humidity. The results presented are fundamental for water transfer modeling inSSFin fixed bed bioreactors.

Practical Applications

The current work addresses the hygroscopic properties ofOPP, a solid waste rich in pectin, which can be used as substrate inSSFfor the synthesis of pectinases and phytases. Thermal sorption isotherms (TSI) and water desorption kinetics (WDK) were investigated, both of the key information required for the fermentation process, either on simulation or in the laboratory. Usually, the moisture content of the solid phase inSSFis far above its moisture equilibrium content, and since the microbial metabolism is strongly affected by the moisture content, knowledge ofTSIandWDKare mandatory. Experimental information was gathered andTSInonlinear models were applied and special care was taken for the parameter estimation, applying specific tools to assess nonlinearity problems. The work therefore possesses significant new information, particularly interesting for engineers dealing with design and scaling‐up ofSSFbioreactors and with nonlinear regression estimation.
New developments in diagnosis and non‐surgical treatment of chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Inui Kazuo , Yoshino Junji , Miyoshi Hironao , Yamamoto Satoshi , Kobayashi Takashi
Published: November 2013

Chronic pancreatitis is progressive and irreversible, leading to digestive and absorptive disorders by destruction of the exocrine pancreas and to diabetes mellitus by destruction of the endocrine pancreas. When complications such as pancreatolithiasis and pseudocyst occur, elevated pancreatic ductal pressure exacerbates pain and induces other complications, worsening the patient's general condition. Combined treatment with extracorporeal shock‐wave lithotripsy and endoscopic lithotripsy is a useful, minimally invasive, first‐line treatment approach that can preserve pancreatic exocrine function. Pancreatic duct stenosis elevates intraductal pressure and favor both pancreatolithiasis and pseudocyst formation, making effective treatment vitally important. Endoscopic treatment of benign pancreatic duct stenosis stenting frequently decreases pain in chronic pancreatitis. Importantly, stenosis of the main pancreatic duct increases risk of stone recurrence after treatment of pancreatolithiasis. Recently, good results were reported in treating pancreatic duct stricture with a fully covered self‐expandable metallic stent, which shows promise for preventing stone recurrence after lithotripsy in patients with pancreatic stricture. Chronic pancreatitis has many complications including pancreatic carcinoma, pancreatic atrophy, and loss of exocrine and endocrine function, as well as frequent recurrence of stones after treatment of pancreatolithiasis. As early treatment of chronic pancreatitis is essential, the new concept of early chronic pancreatitis, including characteristics findings in endoscopic ultrasonograms, is presented.
Trans fatty acids in diets act as a precipitating factor for gut inflammation?
Authors: Okada Yoshikiyo , Tsuzuki Yoshikazu , Ueda Toshihide , Hozumi Hideaki , Sato Shingo , Hokari Ryota , Kurihara Chie , Watanabe Chikako , Tomita Kengo , Komoto Shunsuke , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Nagao Shigeaki , Miura Soichiro
Published: November 2013

Fatty acids in our daily diet are broadly classified into cis and trans fatty acids (TFAs). TFAs are formed during the manufacturing process of hydrogenated vegetable oils such as margarine. Modern diets such as deep‐fried products, frozen foods, and packaged snacks commonly include large quantities of margarine containing TFAs. Although an increased report in the effects of the diet containing TFAs on a risk factor of metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, and coronary heart disease has been observed in the recent years, influence on intestinal inflammation remains unknown. This review describes pro‐inflammatory effects of TFAs in our diary diet on various systemic disorders and also discusses a possible role of TFAs on gut inflammation.
Association among ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs, self‐efficacy and health‐promoting behaviors in elderly Korean adults
Authors: Yeom Hyun‐E
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

To examine the impact of ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs on self‐efficacy and health‐promoting behaviours and to test the mediating effect of self‐efficacy on the relationship between ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs and health‐promoting behaviours in older Korean people.

Background

Despite the growing attention given to ageing‐related beliefs that can lead to better health outcomes in old age, little is known about the associations between ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs, self‐efficacy and health‐promoting behaviours.

Design

A cross‐sectional, descriptive study.

Methods

A total of 123 community‐dwelling older women were recruited from three cities in south‐east Korea. Direct and indirect effects of ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs on self‐efficacy and health‐promoting behaviours were examined using path analyses.

Results

Ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs significantly predicted self‐efficacy and health‐promoting behaviours. A significant indirect effect of ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs on health‐promoting behaviours through self‐efficacy was detected, indicating that self‐efficacy mediated the detrimental impact of ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs on health‐promoting behaviours.

Conclusions

Ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs function as a factor lowering self‐efficacy as well as decreasing health‐promoting behaviours. Self‐efficacy mediates the influence of ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs on health‐promoting behaviours, indicating that ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs decrease self‐efficacy which, in turn, could lead to fewer health‐promoting behaviours. The findings demonstrate the significance of ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs and self‐efficacy in guiding the health‐promoting behaviours of older people.

Relevance to clinical practice

Healthcare providers should play an active role in understanding ageing‐related stereotypic beliefs and decreasing the perceptual barriers to health‐promoting behaviours of older people. The development of nursing interventions to improve positive attitudes towards old age and self‐efficacy is essential for enhancing health‐promoting behaviours.
Tolerance of soil algae and cyanobacteria to drought stress
Authors: Lin Ching‐Su , Wu Jiunn‐Tzong
Published: November 2013

Tolerance to drought stress in soil crust microorganisms is essential for exploiting suitable organisms for restoring soil. In this study, the responses to drought stress of two drought‐tolerant species, a green alga and a cyanobacterium, were compared with those of two non‐tolerant green algae. In response to drought stress, induced by treatment with polyethylene glycol, the intracellular proline levels increased and were associated with increases in malondialdehye, pigment contents, and enzyme activities such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD). Our results suggest that tolerance to drought stress could be indicated by the intracellular levels of proline, SOD, and carotenoids. This study provides insights into the drought physiology of the photosynthetic microorganisms and suggests that Leptolyngbya boryana and Chlorella vulgaris are suitable pioneer organisms for soil restoration.
Combined Testosterone and Vardenafil Treatment for Restoring Erectile Function in Hypogonadal Patients who Failed to Respond to Testosterone Therapy Alone
Authors: Yassin Dany-Jan , Yassin Aksam A. , Hammerer Peter G.
Published: November 2013

Introduction

The role of testosterone in erectile dysfunction (ED) is increasingly recognized. It is suggested that assessment of testosterone deficiency in men with ED and symptoms of hypogonadism, prior to first-line treatment, may be a useful tool for improving therapy.

Aim

In this prospective, observational, and longitudinal study, we investigated the effects of vardenafil treatment as adjunctive therapy to testosterone undecanoate in hypogonadal ED patients who failed to respond to testosterone treatment alone.

Methods

One hundred twenty-nine testosterone deficient (serum total testosterone ≤3.4 ng/mL) patients aged 56 ± 3.9 years received intramuscular injections of long-acting parenteral testosterone undecanoate at 3-month intervals for 8 months mean follow-up.

Main Outcome Measures

Scores on the International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire-five items (IIEF-5) and partner survey scores were compared at baseline and posttreatment with testosterone therapy alone or in combination with vardenafil. Patient baseline demographics and concomitant disease were correlated with patients' IIEF-5 scores.

Results

Seventy one (58.2%) responded well to monotherapy within 3 months. Nonresponders had lower testosterone levels and higher rates of concomitant diseases and smoking. Thirty-four of the 51 nonresponders accepted the addition of 20 mg vardenafil on demand. Efficacy assessments were measured by the IIEF–erectile function domain (IIEF-EF, questions 1–5 plus 15, 30 points) and partner self-designed survey at baseline after 4–6 weeks and at study end point. Thirty out of 34 patients responded well to this combination. IIEF-EF Sexual Health Inventory for Men score improved from 12 to 24 (P < 0.0001), and partner survey showed significantly higher satisfaction (P < 0.001). These patients reported spontaneous or nocturnal and morning erections or tumescence. No changes in adverse effects were recorded.

Conclusions

These data suggest that combination therapy of testosterone and vardenafil is safe and effective in treating hypogonadal ED patients who failed to respond to testosterone monotherapy.
Enforcing CITES: The Rise and Fall of Trade Sanctions
Authors: Sand Peter H.
Published: November 2013

Among the most innovative – albeit least well known – features of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) regime is the use of trade sanctions for noncompliance with the treaty. Though not foreseen at all in the original text of the Convention, a unique system of ‘collective retorsion’ was gradually developed through a series of resolutions by the Conference of the Parties, by way of trade embargoes – that is, multilateral recommendations to suspend trade in CITES‐listed specimens with the country concerned. Since 1985, this scheme – now codified in the 2007 Guidelines on Compliance with the Convention – has been enforced against at least 43 recalcitrant States (parties and non‐parties). This article reviews the historical evolution of the CITES sanction scheme in practice over the past three decades, and its effectiveness in achieving compliance. The legality and legitimacy of the scheme is assessed in light of the Convention, other relevant international instruments and general rules of international law.
Inter‐Treaty Cooperation, Biodiversity Conservation and the Trade in Endangered Species
Authors: Caddell Richard
Published: November 2013

In recent years, concerns have been raised over the ability of multilateral environmental agreements to effectively coordinate their policies and activities on issues of mutual interest. This article examines the current initiatives pursued by the 1973 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) to synergize its activities for the conservation of biodiversity with allied regimes. It examines cooperative policies undertaken alongside the two key biodiversity treaties with which CITES operates most closely – namely the 1992 Convention on Biological Diversity and the 1979 Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals. The article outlines broad thematic and species‐specific interactions, suggesting that while there is considerable scope to develop cooperative working practices, a degree of caution is appropriate as to the current level of priority placed upon synergies between these regimes as a solution to operative challenges.
Regulatory Tools for the Management of Fish and Timber Species through CITES
Authors: Aguilar Soledad
Published: November 2013

This article addresses the growing body of work within the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) on the management of commercially valuable timber and fish species. The article reviews the types of regulatory tools CITES has adopted to manage fish and timber species subject to high levels of commercial international trade. Tools identified are described through examples from the CITES acquis, and assessed according to two criteria: their normative content to determine the strength of the tool within the CITES regulatory context; and their proactive potential to determine whether the tool is mainly used to achieve the Convention's traditional supportive role towards national management authorities, or for a more modern role as a generator and driving force for sustainable management decisions.