bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topical Use of Human Recombinant Epidermal Growth Factor (h‐EGF) in Venous Ulcers
Authors: FALANGA VINCENT , EAGLSTEIN WILLIAM H. , BUCALO BRIAN , KATZ MATTHEW H. , HARRIS BRIAN , CARSON POLLY
Published: June 2013

A great deal of interest has been focused recently on the potential use of synthetic polypeptide growth factors to stimulate healing of chronic wounds. In this pilot double‐blind randomized study conducted at a single center, we used human recombinant epidermal growth factor (h‐EGF) to treat 44 patients with venous ulceration of the lower extremities. An aqueous solution (10 μg/mh) of h‐EGF was applied topically to the ulcers twice a day until healing occurred or for a maximum of 10 weeks. Patients were evaluated weekly for measurements of ulcer size and for the formation of granulation tissue suitable for grafting. Nine patients were excluded from efficacy evaluation because of protocol violations. Therefore, 35 patients (17 h‐EGF, 18 placebo) were evaluable for efficacy, and 44 patients (22 h‐EGF, 22 placebo) were available for safety. The median baseline ulcer size for all patients was 18.5 cm2, and was not significantly different between h‐EGF and placebo group (12.9 cm2 versus 19.2 cm2, respectively, P= .27). By study end, six (35%) of h‐EGF treated patients and two (11%) in the placebo group had healed completely (P = .10). Another 6 patients (2 of 17 h‐EGF, 4 of 18 placebo; P= .50) developed healthy granulation tissue that was suitable for grafting. The median ulcer size reduction was 7% for h‐EGF versus 3% for placebo per week (P = .29), and 73% versus 33% at study end (P= .32). No untoward side effects were related to the application of h‐EGF. We conclude that topical application of h‐EGF, in the dose and manner used in this study, was safe but failed to significantly enhance reepithelialization of venous ulcers. However, a greater reduction in ulcer size and a larger number of healed ulcers with the use of h‐EGF are encouraging results.
Clinical Usefulness of the Argon Laser for the 1990s
Authors: MCBURNEY ELIZABETH I.
Published: June 2013

The argon laser remains an excellent, important laser in the 1990s. Its major role in dermatology is for the treatment of mature nodular port‐wine stains, telangiectasia, small vascular lesions, and superficial pigmented lesions. Technique modifications and appropriate patient selection have been developed to maximize favorable response.
Use of the Carbon Dioxide Laser in Dermatologic Surgery
Authors: OLBRICHT SUZANNE M.
Published: June 2013

background. The effective and safe use of the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser in the 1990s has been facilitated by technologic advances and widespread clinical use producing a better understanding of laser‐tissue interactions, refinements in technique, and modifications of the list of indications. Safety guidelines have evolved from identification of complications.

objective. To discuss the basic principles and applications of CO2 laser surgery.

methods. Types of CO2 lasers and their applications are discussed.

conclusion. Today, use of the carbon dioxide laser simplifies many procedures, is reasonably safe, is effective for its intended usages, and is the preferred treatment of several cutaneous disorders.
Solitary Mastocytoma in an Adult
Authors: ASHINOFF ROBIN , SOTER NICHOLAS A. , FREEDBERG IRWIN M.
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND. In approximately 65% of patients, mastocytosis presents between birth and 15 years of age. Although solitary mastocytomas usually appear within the first 3 months of life, in unusual circumstances they may appear in adulthood.

OBJECTIVE. The rare entity of solitary mastocytoma in adulthood and the simple treatment method of excision are discussed.

METHODS. Simple surgical excision without manipulation of the lesion was performed.

RESULTS. The lesion was surgically excised without recurrence.

CONCLUSION. Solitary mastocytoma is a rare lesion in adulthood. The differential diagnosis includes a melanocytic nevus, xanthogranuloma and leukemia cutis. Surgical excision offers a rapid, relatively simple and effective mode of treatment.
Predation risk affects the levels of maternal immune factors in avian eggs
Authors: Morosinotto Chiara , Ruuskanen Suvi , Thomson Robert L. , Siitari Heli , Korpimäki Erkki , Laaksonen Toni
Published: June 2013

Predation risk is an environmental stressor that can induce changes in prey behavior and physiology. Perception of predation risk may indirectly affect offspring traits and future fitness prospects via impacts on the condition of parents. Females may influence the survival of their offspring via maternal effects, especially when breeding in stressful conditions. We investigated the effects of continuous predation risk perceived by mothers on the maternal allocation of immune factors and carotenoids in eggs of the pied flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca. We collected eggs from wild pied flycatchers that bred in the vicinity of a predator nest (pygmy owl Glaucidium passerinum), were exposed to cues of a mammalian nest predator (urine of least weasel Mustela nivalis), or received appropriate controls for these two groups. Pied flycatchers transferred more immunoglobulin in eggs under high predation risk in both owl and mammalian predator treatments. The presence of owl nests also lowered the level of lysozyme transferred in the eggs in one of the two study years. Predation risk did not modify egg size or overall carotenoid levels. Our results show that continuous predation risk perceived by females during egg‐laying affects egg composition. This different allocation of maternal immune factors may be an adaptive response evolved to increase the probability of offspring survival.
Colouration in Atlantic puffins and blacklegged kittiwakes: monochromatism and links to body condition in both sexes
Authors: Doutrelant Claire , Grégoire Arnaud , Gomez Doris , Staszewski Vincent , Arnoux Emilie , Tveraa Torkild , Faivre Bruno , Boulinier Thierry
Published: June 2013

Sexual dimorphism is widely used as an indirect measure of the intensity of sexual selection. It is also a way to evaluate whether different selective pressures act on males and females. Dichromatism, defined as a difference in colouration between males and females, may for instance result from selection for crypsis in females and selection for conspicuousness in males. Here, we conducted a study to investigate whether differential sexual selective pressures might act on the colour traits of two colonial seabird species, the Atlantic puffin Fratercula artica and the black‐legged kittiwake Rissa tricactyla. First, we used spectrophotometry and visual modelling to determine whether these presumed monomorphic birds are really monochromatic from an avian perspective (birds and humans have a different vision). Second, we estimated whether some of their colourations have the potential to be sexually or socially selected by determining whether these colourations were related to body condition in males and females, and whether the yellow, orange and red colourations may contain carotenoid pigments. Our results indicated that both species were fully monochromatic from an avian perspective. Moreover, our preliminary analyses suggested that the yellow, orange and red colours of these birds contained carotenoids. Lastly, some indices of colouration were positively linked to estimates of condition. Birds in better condition had redder gape (both species) and bill (puffins). In puffins, the relation between condition and gape colouration was significantly stronger in females than males. By contrast, the size of the gape rosette was larger in males than females. The positive links we found between colour indices and condition, together with the absence of sexual dichromatism, suggest that mutual sexual selection may act in these two species.
Co‐occurrence and phylogenetic distance in communities of mammalian ectoparasites: limiting similarity versus environmental filtering
Authors: Krasnov Boris R. , Pilosof Shai , Stanko Michal , Morand Serge , Korallo‐Vinarskaya Natalia P. , Vinarski Maxim V. , Poulin Robert
Published: June 2013

Similarity between species plays a key role in the processes governing community assembly. The co‐occurrence of highly similar species may be unlikely if their similar needs lead to intense competition (limiting similarity). On the other hand, persistence in a particular habitat may require certain traits, such that communities end up consisting of species sharing the same traits (environmental filtering). Relatively little information exists on the relative importance of these processes in structuring parasite communities. Assuming that phylogenetic relatedness reflects ecological similarity, we tested whether the co‐occurrence of pairs of flea species (Siphonaptera) on the same host individuals was explained by the phylogenetic distance between them, among 40 different samples of mammalian hosts (rodents and shrews) from different species, areas or seasons. Our results indicate that frequency of co‐occurrence between flea species increased with decreasing phylogenetic distance between them in 37 out of 40 community samples, with 14 of these correlations being statistically significant. A meta‐analysis across all samples confirmed the overall trend for closely related species to co‐occur more frequently on the same individual hosts than expected by chance, independently of the identity of the host species or of environmental conditions. These findings suggest that competition between closely related, and therefore presumably ecologically similar, species is not important in shaping flea communities. Instead, if only fleas with certain behavioural, ecological and physiological properties can encounter and exploit a given host, and if phylogenetic relationships determine trait similarity among flea species, then a process akin to environmental filtering, or host filtering, could favour the co‐occurrence of related species on the same host.
Influence of self‐esteem, locus of control, and organizational climate on psychological empowerment in a sample of Chinese teachers
Authors: Wang Jin‐Liang , Zhang Da‐Jun , Jackson Linda A.
Published: June 2013

This study examined the effects of locus of control, self‐esteem, and organizational climate on psychological empowerment in a sample of Chinese teachers. Participants were 1,272 Chinese teachers (460 men and 821 women) residing in six provinces in China. Results indicated that self‐esteem was a positive predictor of psychological empowerment. Several dimensions of organizational climate, namely professional communication, decision‐making, appraisal and recognition, supportive leadership, and professional growth, were also positive predictors of teachers’ psychological empowerment. Locus of control, although related to psychological empowerment, had no predictive effects when other factors related to empowerment were considered.
Evolutionary history influences the effects of water–energy dynamics on oak diversity in Asia
Authors: Xu Xiaoting , Wang Zhiheng , Rahbek Carsten , Lessard Jean‐Philippe , Fang Jingyun
Published: June 2013

Aim

Water–energy dynamics are often correlated with geographical patterns of terrestrial plant richness. However, the relative importance of water and energy on species richness is still being debated. Some studies suggest a transition in the relative importance of water and energy along a latitudinal gradient, i.e. that water is the most important factor at low latitudes, whereas energy is the leading factor at high latitudes. The generality of this transition is yet to be established and is the focus of the current study. In particular, we examine whether differences in the evolutionary histories of two subgenera of Asian oaks influence the derived models of water–energy dynamics.

Location

Asia (70–140° E; 10–60° N).

Methods

We performed geographically weighted regressions to quantify geographical variation in the relative importance of water and energy on the species richness of Asian oaks (Quercus L.). We also evaluated how evolutionary history influences the relative importance of water and energy in determining species richness, by comparing patterns in the two oak subgenera: Quercus subg. Quercus and Quercus subg. Cyclobalanopsis. In particular, we assessed how the ancestral climatic niche of these two subgenera (i.e. subgenus Quercus of temperate origin versus subgenus Cyclobalanopsis of tropical origin) relates to the relative importance of water and energy on contemporary diversity patterns.

Results

We found no geographical transition line in the relative importance of water and energy along the latitudinal gradient studied. Instead, we found that the importance of energy relative to water on the species richness of subgenus Quercus increased from mid‐latitudes (warm temperate regions) towards both tropical and boreal regions: this pattern might reflect that this subgenus originated in the temperate region. In contrast, the importance of both water and energy on the species richness of the tropical subgenus Cyclobalanopsis increased from tropical to boreal regions, probably due to a lack of adaptation to winter coldness.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that differences in the evolutionary history – specifically the ancestral climatic niche – of the two subgenera of oaks influence the effects of water–energy dynamics on species richness along a latitudinal gradient through niche conservatism.
Range size patterns of New World oscine passerines (Aves): insights from differences among migratory and sedentary clades
Authors: Morales‐Castilla Ignacio , Rodríguez Miguel Á. , Kaur Ramnik , Hawkins Bradford A.
Published: June 2013

Aim

To quantify the contributions of environment, phylogeny and geography to variation in the breeding and non‐breeding geographical range sizes of oscine passerines.

Location

Western Hemisphere.

Methods

Breeding range sizes were estimated for 420 species, and non‐breeding ranges were estimated for 122 migratory species. Phylogenetic, environmental and geographical (spatial) eigenvectors were used to partition cross‐species variation in range size. The strengths of environmental and phylogenetic signals were quantified and compared among all species, and between migratory and sedentary oscines.

Results

Phylogenetic, environmental and geographical structure explained most of the variation in range size, accounting for 95% of the variation in breeding range sizes of migratory birds. The three components overlapped extensively, with most variation explained by differences in environmental niches. Models for breeding ranges of migratory species contained the strongest phylogenetic, environmental and geographical signals at the species level. In contrast, models for non‐breeding ranges of migratory species contained the weakest phylogenetic and environmental signals (5.7% and 65.2% of variance explained, respectively). The phylogenetic signal was consistently stronger for migratory breeding ranges than for the other groups.

Main conclusions

Oscine range sizes contain a low to moderate phylogenetic signal that overlaps with environmental and geographical associations. The significance of phylogenetic signal suggests that the evolution of range size is not entirely labile, which is probably a result of the non‐labile evolution of associated traits. Environmental, geographical and phylogenetic variables can account for most of the variance in species‐level range size, with qualitatively similar patterns for migratory and sedentary species. Nonetheless, the stronger environmental and phylogenetic signals in the breeding ranges of migratory species may reflect both that migration is a phylogenetically conserved trait and that the subset of species able to breed in ‘recently’ deglaciated regions is more severely constrained by macroclimatic filtering.
Yersiniosis in Atlantic cod, Gadus morhua (L.), characterization of the infective strain and host reactions
Authors: Gudmundsdottir B K , Gudmundsdottir S , Gudmundsdottir S , Magnadottir B
Published: June 2013

A disease outbreak in farmed Atlantic cod caused by Yersinia ruckeri is reported. Mortality started following vaccination of cod reared in two tanks (A and B). The accumulated mortality reached 1.9% in A and 4.8% in B in the following 30 days when treatment with oxytetracycline was applied. Biochemical and molecular analysis of Y. ruckeri isolates from the cod and other fish species from fresh and marine waters in Iceland revealed a high salinity‐tolerant subgroup of Y. ruckeri serotype O1. Infected fish showed clinical signs comparable with those of Y. ruckeri ‐infected salmonids, with the exception of granuloma formations in infected cod tissues, which is a known response of cod to bacterial infections. Immunohistological examination showed Y. ruckeri antigens in the core of granulomas and the involvement of immune parameters that indicates a strong association between complement and lysozyme killing of bacteria. Experimental infection of cod with a cod isolate induced disease, and the calculated LD50 was 1.7 × 104 CFU per fish. The results suggest that yersiniosis can be spread between populations of freshwater and marine fish. Treatment of infected cod with antibiotic did not eliminate the infection, which can be explained by the immune response of cod producing prolonged granulomatous infection.
Dopaminergic neurotoxicity ofS‐ethylN,N‐dipropylthiocarbamate (EPTC), molinate, andS‐methyl‐N,N‐diethylthiocarbamate (MeDETC) inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Caito Samuel W. , Valentine William M. , Aschner Michael
Published: June 2013

Epidemiological studies corroborate a correlation between pesticide use and Parkinson's disease (PD). Thiocarbamate and dithiocarbamate pesticides are widely used and produce neurotoxicity in the peripheral nervous system. Recent evidence from rodent studies suggests that these compounds also cause dopaminergic (DAergic) dysfunction and altered protein processing, two hallmarks ofPD. However,DAergic neurotoxicity has yet to be documented. We assessedDAergic dysfunction inCaenorhabditis elegans(C. elegans) to investigate the ability of thiocarbamate pesticides to induceDAergic neurodegeneration. Acute treatment with eitherS‐ethylN,N‐dipropylthiocarbamate (EPTC), molinate, or a common reactive intermediate of dithiocarbamate and thiocarbamate metabolism,S‐methyl‐N,N‐diethylthiocarbamate (MeDETC), to gradual loss ofDAergic cell morphology and structure over the course of 6 days in worms expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) under aDAergic cell specific promoter.HPLCanalysis revealed decreasedDAcontent in the worms immediately following exposure to MeDETC,EPTC, and molinate. In addition, worms treated with the three test compounds showed a drastic loss ofDAergic‐dependent behavior over a time course similar to changes inDAergic cell morphology. Alterations in theDAergic system were specific, as loss of cell structure and neurotransmitter content was not observed in cholinergic, glutamatergic, orGABAergic systems. Overall, our data suggest that thiocarbamate pesticides promote neurodegeneration andDAergic cell dysfunction inC. elegans, and may be an environmental risk factor forPD.
Age‐dependent alterations of the kynurenine pathway in the YAC128 mouse model of Huntington disease
Authors: Mazarei Gelareh , Budac David P. , Lu Ge , Adomat Hans , Tomlinson Guns Emma S. , Möller Thomas , Leavitt Blair R.
Published: June 2013

Indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (Ido1), the first and rate‐limiting enzyme of the kynurenine pathway (KP), is a striatally enriched gene with increased expression levels in the YAC128 mouse model of Huntington disease (HD). Our objective in this study was to delineate age‐related KP alterations in this model. Three enzymes potentially catalyze the first step of the KP; Ido1 and Indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase‐2 were highly expressed in the striatum and Tryptophan 2,3 dioxygenase (Tdo2) in the cerebellum. During development, Ido1 mRNA expression is dynamically regulated and chronically up‐regulated in YAC128 mice. Kynurenine (Kyn) to tryptophan (Trp) ratio, a measure of activity in the first step of the KP, was elevated in YAC128 striatum, but no change in Tdo2 mRNA levels or Kyn to Trp ratio was detected in the cerebellum. Ido1 induction was coincident with Trp depletion at 3 months and Kyn accumulation at 12 months of age in striatum. Changes in downstream KP metabolites of YAC128 mice generally followed a biphasic pattern with neurotoxic metabolites reduced at 3 months and increased at 12 months of age. Striatally specific induction of Ido1 and downstream KP alterations suggest involvement in HD pathogenesis, and should be taken into account in future therapeutic developments for HD.
Communities' knowledge and perceptions of type two diabetes mellitus in Rwanda: a questionnaire survey
Authors: Mukeshimana Madeleine M , Nkosi Zethu Z
Published: June 2013

Aims and objectives

To explore the level of knowledge and perceptions of T2DM among people in the Rwamagana district.

Background

Diabetes is one of the leading causes of death in the world. Knowledge of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) can assist in early detection of the disease and reduce the incidence of complications. Therefore, a descriptive study was conducted to determine the level of knowledge and perceptions of T2DM among people in the Rwamagana district, Rwanda.

Design

The study used a cluster multistage sampling technique to obtain a representative sample. The clusters were provinces, districts, sectors, household clusters and sample units selection. The Kigabiro sector was studied, and a sample size of 355 respondents was calculated using Raosoft Sample Size Calculator (Raosoft, Inc 2004, http://www.raosoft.com/samplesize.html).

Methods

A descriptive method, using questionnaires, was used for data collection. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, contingency tables and chi‐square test. The target population comprised 4556 people (women and men aged between 15–65 years) living in a sampled sector of Kigabiro.

Results

The level of knowledge of respondents was inadequate. Few respondents got a high score on questions intended to explore the knowledge of definition, signs, causes and risk factors of diabetes.

Conclusion

The perceptions were also poor and inadequate. The recommendations focused on education campaigns by the Kigabiro sector authorities.

Relevance to clinical practice

If people are knowledgeable on managing long‐term conditions such as diabetes, there will be less expenditure on curative care. The healthcare services will have fewer burdens, and the focus will be on specific and relevant ailments.
Are You in a Healthy Relationship? Linking Conscientiousness to Health via Implementing and Immunizing Behaviors
Authors: Hill Patrick L. , Nickel Lauren B. , Roberts Brent W.
Published: June 2013

The benefits of living a conscientious life have been demonstrated across multiple domains, and yet, few studies have sought to explain how the positive effects in one area may help explain those in another. The current article considers the possibility that conscientious individuals live healthier lives by virtue of having greater success in their relationships. Using both past research and new findings to support our model, we set forth a framework by which to consider how Conscientiousness affects relationship functioning, which in turn leads to better physical, emotional, and psychological health. In so doing, we also provide a new outlook on the health benefits associated with Conscientiousness, and how these may be conferred by relationship success.
Nanodesign of olein vesicles for the topical delivery of the antioxidant resveratrol
Authors: Pando Daniel , Caddeo Carla , Manconi Maria , Fadda Anna Maria , Pazos Carmen
Published: June 2013

Objectives

The ex-vivo percutaneous absorption of the natural antioxidant resveratrol in liposomes and niosomes was investigated. The influence of vesicle composition on their physicochemical properties and stability was evaluated. Liposomes containing resveratrol were formulated using soy phosphatidylcholine (Phospholipon90G). Innovative niosomes were formulated using mono- or diglycerides: glycerol monooleate (Peceol) and polyglyceryl-3 dioleate (Plurol OleiqueCC), respectively, two suitable skin-compatible oleins used in pharmaceutical formulations as penetration enhancers.

Methods

Small, negatively charged vesicles with a mean size of approximately 200 nm were prepared. The accelerated stability of vesicles was evaluated using Turbiscan Lab Expert, and the bilayer deformability was also assessed. Ex-vivo transdermal experiments were carried out in Franz diffusion cells, on newborn pig skin, to study the influence of the different vesicle formulations on resveratrol skin delivery.

Key findings

Results indicated a high cutaneous accumulation and a low transdermal delivery of resveratrol, especially when Peceol niosomes were used.

Conclusions

Overall, niosomes formulated with Plurol oleique or Peceol showed a better behaviour than liposomes in the cutaneous delivery of resveratrol.
Impact of ribavirin priming on viral kinetics and treatment response in chronic hepatitis C genotype 1 infection
Authors: Mihm U. , Welker M.‐W. , Teuber G. , Wedemeyer H. , Berg T. , Sarrazin C. , Böhm S. , Alshuth U. , Herrmann E. , Zeuzem S.
Published: June 2013

Ribavirin amplifies the interferon‐alpha (IFN) signalling cascade. As ribavirin needs 4 weeks to reach steady state, ribavirin priming may optimize hepatic IFN sensitivity before starting a pegylated (PEG)‐IFN/ribavirin combination therapy. This study investigated potential benefits of ribavirin priming prior to PEG‐IFN2a/ribavirin combination therapy on viral kinetics, on‐treatment and sustained virological response (SVR) in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 infection. Sixty‐eight treatment naive patients were randomized 2:2:1 to ribavirin (ribavirin arm) or placebo (placebo arm) or PEG‐IFN2a (PEG‐IFN2a arm) for 6 weeks prior to 12 weeks of PEG‐IFN2a/ribavirin combination therapy within a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial. Then, standard PEG‐IFN2a/ribavirin combination therapy according to the German guidelines was continued under the responsibility of the investigators. Ribavirin was given according to body weight and PEG‐IFN2a at a dose of 180 μg subcutaneously once/week. During ribavirin priming, HCV RNA showed a decline of −0.58 log10 IU/mL (P < 0.001) that was unrelated to the IL28B rs12979860 genotype (CC vs CT/TT, P = 0.244). Ribavirin priming did neither increase the PEG‐IFN2a‐induced first‐ or second‐phase viral decline (P values >0.100) nor on‐treatment response or SVR (HCV RNA undetectable at week 12 of combination therapy: ribavirin arm 56%, placebo arm 38%, PEG‐IFN2a arm 50%; SVR: ribavirin arm 41%, placebo arm 54%, PEG‐IFN2a arm 50%; P values >0.300). In conclusion, ribavirin monotherapy showed a significant antiviral activity that was not influenced by the IL28B genotype. Ribavirin priming prior to PEG‐IFN2a/ribavirin combination therapy did neither increase the first‐ or second‐phase viral decline nor on‐treatment response or SVR.
Volume dependency for culture of fungi from respiratory secretions and increased sensitivity of Aspergillus quantitative PCR
Authors: Fraczek Marcin G. , Kirwan Marie B. , Moore Caroline B. , Morris Julie , Denning David W. , Richardson Malcolm D.
Published: June 2013

Diagnosis of aspergillosis is often difficult. We compared fungal yields from respiratory specimens using the Health Protection Agency standard culture method (BSOP57), a higher volume undiluted culture method Mycology Reference Centre Manchester (MRCM) and Aspergillus quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Sputum, bronchial aspirate and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples (total 23) were collected from aspergillosis patients. One fraction of all samples was cultured using the MRCM method, one BSOP57 and one was used for qPCR. The recovery rate for fungi was significantly higher by MRCM (87%) than by BSOP57 (8.7%) from all 23 specimens. Sputum samples were 44% positive by MRCM compared to no fungi isolated (0%) by BSOP57. Bronchial aspirates were 75% positive by MRCM and 0% by BSOP57. BAL samples were positive in 20% by MRCM and 10% by BSOP57. qPCR was always more sensitive than culture (95.6%) from all samples. In general, over 100 mould colonies (81 Aspergillus fumigatus) were grown using the MRCM method compared with only one colony from BSOP57. This study provides a reference point for standardisation of respiratory sample processing in diagnostic laboratories. Culture from higher volume undiluted respiratory specimens has a much higher yield for Aspergillus than BSOP57. qPCR is much more sensitive than culture and the current UK method requires revision.
The nursing metaparadigm concept of human being in Islamic thought
Authors: Alimohammadi Nasrollah , Taleghani Fariba , Mohammadi Esa , Akbarian Reza
Published: June 2013

The metaparadigm concept of person as a core emphasis for nursing theorizing has attracted considerable attention in western literature, but has received less attention in the context of eastern philosophical contexts. In this philosophical inquiry, we sought to clarify the concept of what it is to be a human being according to ideas deriving from Islamic tradition, drawing on concept analysis as general approach to advance an understanding of how nursing within an Islamic context might operationalize metaparadigm conceptualization. Specifically, we considered person as human being on the basis of its definition, attributes/characteristics and boundaries to explore the anatomy of the concept in this context. Our analysis revealed that Islamic thought is relevant to two distinct understandings of the holistic concept of human being. Reciprocal interaction worldview organizes the dimensions of being human (cognitive, emotion, social and spiritual) into a whole. Simultaneous action worldview emphasizes that the human is a coherent and unified creature in harmony with the universe. In Islamic thought, these two worldviews are integrated and operate concurrently. Nurse–patient interactions arising from an integrated perspective that aligns both of these worldviews will allow for informed applications of knowledge to practice and enhanced patient care.
The ‘right’ place to care for older people: home or institution?
Authors: Björnsdóttir Kristin , Ceci Christine , Purkis Mary Ellen
Published: June 2013

In 2008, the Minister of Health for Iceland issued a new regulation intended to govern assessment practices related to placement in nursing homes. One of the aims of the regulation was to ensure that those with the most severe need would have priority. This would be achieved, in part, by requiring older people to exhaust all available community‐based service options before an assessment for placement would even take place. The new regulation was received with some hostility and criticism on the part of older people and their relatives, who described the changed expectations as ‘abandonment’ by the authorities. We present our analysis of these changes by examining how older people and families are reconfigured through the new policy and argue that this ‘new’ practice of de‐institutionalization is underpinned by a shifting epistemic and normative context that is working to create a new identity and a different way of life in advanced age in Iceland. The analysis has implications for other nations as well, as much policy related to older people is broadly informed by this idea that ‘home is best’, that is, the idea that more care simply needs to happen outside of institutional settings.
Alternative methodology for intraocular lens characterisation
Authors: Amaral Felipe T , de Lima Monteiro Davies W
Published: June 2013

Purpose

To present an alternative methodology to characterise intraocular lenses (IOLs) using an optical setup with a Hartmann‐Shack wavefront sensor.

Methods

The methodology was inspired by the ANSI Z80.30 Standard, which addresses IOL optical properties and test methods, and aims to simplify the procedure to allow complete IOL characterisation with a reduced number of measurement steps.

Results

Seven spherical and three toric IOLs were characterised with the alternative methodology and by commercial equipment. Three spherical IOLs measured with the alternative methodology obtained dioptric spherical errors larger than the tolerance established by the ANSI Z80.30 Standard when compared to the IOLs theoretical designs, probably due to manufacturing deviations. All cylindrical dioptric power measurements were within the Standard tolerance. The longitudinal spherical aberration of the IOLs were measured and 2‐dimensional Modulation Transfer Functions (MTF) were calculated in order to complementarily assess manufacturing and design quality.

Conclusions

The alternative methodology allows complete IOL characterisation with a reduced number of steps compared to those required by the Standard ANSI Z80.30, achieving satisfactory results in measurements of IOL dioptric power, spherical aberration, cylindrical power and MTF. Although MTF measurements were not performed with a model eye, they may contain additional relevant information regarding the design of ophthalmic lenses.
New EU legislation for risk assessment of GM food: no scientific justification for mandatory animal feeding trials
Authors: Kuiper Harry A. , Kok Esther J. , Davies Howard V.
Published: June 2013

This commentary focuses on the potential added value of and need for (sub)‐chronic testing of whole genetically modified (GM) foods in rodents to assess their safety. Such routine testing should not be required since, due to apparent weaknesses in the approach, it does not add to current risk assessment of GM foods. Moreover, the demand for routine testing using animals is in conflict with the European Union (EU) Commission's efforts to reduce animal experimentation. Regulating agencies in the EU are invited to respect the sound scientific principles applied to the risk assessment of foods derived from GM plants and not to interfere in the risk assessment by introducing extra requirements based on pseudo‐scientific or political considerations.
Egg maturation dynamics of the parasitoid Microplitis rufiventris: starvation speeds maturation in early life
Authors: HEGAZI ESMAT , KHAFAGI WEDAD , SCHLYTER FREDRIK
Published: June 2013

The number of mature eggs carried by a female parasitoid at any given moment (egg load) is a fitness‐related parameter affecting reproductive potential and impacting upon host population dynamics. Microplitis rufiventris Kokujev (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a solitary koinobiont endoparasitoid wasp of several noctuid pests, including Spodoptera littoralis. The number of mature eggs carried by females at emergence is approximately 50. The rate of egg maturation is strongly affected both by feeding status and access to host larvae. In early adult life, egg maturation rates are lower for 6–72 h in fed wasps compared with food‐deprived wasps. When given access to hosts, honey‐fed wasps live for approximately 9 days with high lifetime fecundity (226 eggs). By contrast to early adult life, the total realized fecundity is positively affected by feeding status, where water‐fed and starved females have 140 and 107 eggs, respectively. Egg resorption is most pronounced in the later life of females. The results suggest, in addition to confirming the effect of honey‐feeding on total fecundity, that fecundity of starved wasps includes rapid egg maturation early in life, which potentially could improve the performance of the parasitoid as a biological control agent.
Indirect Georeferencing of Terrestrial Laser Scanning Data using Control Lines
Authors: dos Santos Daniel R. , Dal Poz Aluir P. , Khoshelham Kourosh
Published: June 2013

An indirect method for the georeferencing of 3D point clouds obtained with terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) data using control lines is presented. This technique could be used for rapid data acquisition where resources do not permit the use of expensive navigation sensors or the placement of pre‐signalised targets. The most important characteristic is the development of a mathematical model based on the principle that the direction vector of the TLS straight line is coplanar with the plane defined by the origin of the TLS system, one endpoint of a control line and the direction vector of the control line in the ground reference coordinate system. The transformation parameters are estimated by minimising the distance between the control lines and their corresponding TLS straight lines. The proposed method was tested using both simulated and real data, and the advantages of this new approach are compared with conventional surveying methods.
Beyond Information Sharing: An Empirical Analysis of Vendor‐Managed Inventory
Authors: Dong Yan , Dresner Martin , Yao Yuliang
Published: June 2013

Using a unique, item‐level data set, we examined benefits to downstream firms (distributors) from the decision‐transfer component of vendor‐managed inventory (VMI), the feature that distinguishes VMI from other information‐sharing, collaborative supply chain programs. Our major findings are that the decision‐transfer component of VMI adds significant benefits to the downstream firm in terms of inventory and stockout reductions above and beyond information sharing, and that these two benefits may be realized at different times following VMI implementation; that is, inventory reduction, initially, may be the major benefit to distributors from VMI, while the benefits of stockout reduction may more likely be realized after the first year of implementation. In addition, VMI provides benefits to the upstream firm (manufacturer) by reducing the downstream firm's inventory variability, a likely contributor to the bullwhip effect. Based on our empirical analysis, the decision‐transfer component of VMI, on average, reduces inventory levels by 7%, stockouts by 31%, and inventory variability by 9%.
In search of markers for somatic embryo maturation in hybrid larch (Larix × eurolepis): global DNA methylation and proteomic analyses
Authors: Teyssier Caroline , Maury Stéphane , Beaufour Martine , Grondin Cécile , Delaunay Alain , Le Metté Claire , Ader Kevin , Cadene Martine , Label Philippe , Lelu‐Walter Marie‐Anne
Published: June 2013

A global DNA methylation and proteomics approach was used to investigate somatic embryo maturation in hybrid larch. Each developmental step during somatic embryogenesis was associated with a distinct and significantly different global DNA methylation level: from 45.8% mC for undifferentiated somatic embryos (1‐week proliferation) to 61.5% mC for immature somatic embryos (1‐week maturation), while maturation was associated with a decrease in DNA methylation to 53.4% for mature cotyledonary somatic embryos (8‐weeks maturation). The presence of 5‐azacytidine (hypo‐methylating agent) or hydroxyurea (hyper‐methylating agent) in the maturation medium altered the global DNA methylation status of the embryogenic cultures, and significantly reduced both their relative growth rate and embryogenic potential, suggesting an important role for DNA methylation in embryogenesis. Maturation was also assessed by examining changes in the total protein profile. Storage proteins, identified as legumin‐ and vicilin‐like, appeared at the precotyledonary stage. In the proteomic study, total soluble proteins were extracted from embryos after 1 and 8 weeks of maturation, and separated by two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis. There were 147 spots which showed significant differences between the stages of maturation; they were found to be involved mainly in primary metabolism and the stabilization of the resulting metabolites. This indicated that the somatic embryo was still metabolically active at 8 weeks of maturation. This is the first report of analyses of global DNA methylation (including the effects of hyper‐ and hypo‐treatments) and proteome during somatic embryogenesis in hybrid larch, and thus provides novel insights into maturation of conifer somatic embryos.
Rare Earth and Rare Metal Elements Mobility and Mineralization During Magmatic and Fluid Evolution in Alkaline Granite System: Evidence from Fluid and Melt Inclusions in Baerzhe Granite, China
Authors: Sun Yi , Lai Yong , Chen Jing , Shu Qihai , Yan Cong
Published: June 2013

Baerzhe Be–Nb–Zr–REE deposit is hosted in alkaline granite (125 Ma) which intrudes in the late Jurassic Baiyingaolao Formation in the middle of the Great Hinggan Metallogenic Belt in China. The ore‐forming granite consists of three lithological facies: arfvedsonite‐bearing alkaline granite at the bottom, aegirine‐bearing albite aplite in the middle and pegmatite crust on the top. The albite aplite is the main orebody. We recognized three magmatic‐hydrothermal stages: orthomagmatic stage, late‐magmatic stage and hydrothermal stage, with the late‐magmatic stage being divided into two substages, the pegmatite substage and the aplite substage. Petrographic study on the granite, the microthermometric study on fluid inclusions and in situ laser‐ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis for quartz‐hosted melt inclusions reveal the process of magmatic‐hydrothermal evolution. The finding indicates that primary magma evolved to more peralkaline by fractional crystallization, with synchronously increasing high field strength elements. An extremely high content of Zr and Nb are in the melt inclusions from last stage albite aplite (Zr, min 52 548 ppm, and Nb, min 4104 ppm). This implies that the residual magma directly formed the orebody of rare metal elements. Meanwhile, volatility was increasing during the magma evolution process and F‐bearing aqueous fluid was oversaturated at temperatures higher than 800°C. The separation of fluid from magma caused Li‐REE enrichment in F‐bearing fluid and depletion in residual melt, and led to the difference of the Y/Ho ratio between whole rock compositions and melt inclusion data. Fluid separated into a high‐salinity liquid and a low density vapor phase above 697°C, and enriched REE in the high‐salinity liquid. The oxygen isotope data shows mixing between primary magmatic‐hydrothermal fluid and meteoric water. The ubiquitous pseudo‐secondary fluid inclusions have a wide range of salinity below 462°C, which is similar to the melting temperatures of REE‐bearing daughter minerals. A model involving the mixing by meteoric water could be a mechanism for precipitation of REE minerals.
Multi‐scale spatial heterogeneity of pectic rhamnogalacturonan I (RG–I) structural features in tobacco seed endosperm cell walls
Authors: Lee Kieran J.D. , Cornuault Valérie , Manfield Iain W. , Ralet Marie‐Christine , Paul Knox J.
Published: June 2013

Plant cell walls are complex configurations of polysaccharides that fulfil a diversity of roles during plant growth and development. They also provide sets of biomaterials that are widely exploited in food, fibre and fuel applications. The pectic polysaccharides, which comprise approximately a third of primary cell walls, form complex supramolecular structures with distinct glycan domains. Rhamnogalacturonan I (RG–I) is a highly structurally heterogeneous branched glycan domain within the pectic supramolecule that contains rhamnogalacturonan, arabinan and galactan as structural elements. Heterogeneous RG–I polymers are implicated in generating the mechanical properties of cell walls during cell development and plant growth, but are poorly understood in architectural, biochemical and functional terms. Using specific monoclonal antibodies to the three major RG–I structural elements (arabinan, galactan and the rhamnogalacturonan backbone) for in situ analyses and chromatographic detection analyses, the relative occurrences of RG–I structures were studied within a single tissue: the tobacco seed endosperm. The analyses indicate that the features of the RG–I polymer display spatial heterogeneity at the level of the tissue and the level of single cell walls, and also heterogeneity at the biochemical level. This work has implications for understanding RG–I glycan complexity in the context of cell‐wall architectures and in relation to cell‐wall functions in cell and tissue development.
Prognostic value of baseline absolute lymphocyte concentration and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in dogs with newly diagnosed multi‐centric lymphoma
Authors: Mutz M. , Boudreaux B. , Kearney M. , Stroda K. , Gaunt S. , Shiomitsu K.
Published: June 2013

Canine multi‐centric B‐cell lymphoma shares similarities with diffuse large B‐cell (Non‐Hodgkin's) lymphoma (NHL) in people. In people withNHL, lymphopenia at diagnosis and first relapse and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (N:L) > 3.5 are negative prognostic factors for survival. The objective of this study was to determine if lymphocyte concentration at diagnosis and first relapse and N:L were prognostic for survival in dogs with newly diagnosed multi‐centric lymphoma. Medical records of 77 dogs with multi‐centric lymphoma treated with aCHOP‐based chemotherapy protocol were retrospectively evaluated. Absolute lymphocyte concentration and N:L ratio at presentation of dogs pre‐treated with steroids was not significantly different from dogs who had not received steroids. On multivariate analysis, only immunophenotype remained significant for progression‐free survival (PFS), whereas no variables remained significant forST. A prospective study of these haematologic variables is warranted to assess their true significance.
In vitro comparison of the effectiveness of polihexanide and chlorhexidine against canine isolates of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Malassezia pachydermatis
Authors: Banovic Frane , Bozic Frane , Lemo Niksa
Published: June 2013

Background

Polihexanide (polyhexamethylene biguanide) is an antiseptic substance that plays a prominent role in the treatment of critically colonized or infected acute and chronic wounds in humans.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of polihexanide against canine isolates of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Malassezia pachydermatis and compare it with 4.5% chlorhexidine digluconate for two different contact times.

Methods

Ten isolates of each organism were incubated at 37°C for 3 and 5 min, respectively, with each antiseptic diluted 1:2 to 1:4096 in phosphate‐buffered saline.

Results

Both products showed excellent antimicrobial activity against all isolates tested. No significant differences in antimicrobial efficacy between antiseptics for all isolates were found. With the exception of one isolate of M. pachydermatis at 3 min exposure time, all isolates were completely killed by a dilution of 1:32 of polihexanide as well as chlorhexidine at both exposure times. Although the mean values of break‐point concentrations for both antiseptics increased with the longer exposure time of 5 min, there were no significant differences between the two exposure times. The P. aeruginosa isolates were more susceptible than S. pseudintermedius for both antiseptics, and break‐point dilutions were significantly higher compared with break‐point dilutions obtained by all other treatments.

Conclusions and clinical importance

The results indicate that polihexanide has comparable in vitro antimicrobial efficacy to chlorhexidine and presents a potential alternative agent for skin and wound antisepsis in veterinary medicine.