bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the potential population impact of stepwise screening strategies for identifying and treating individuals at high risk of Type 2 diabetes: a modelling study
Authors: Chamnan P. , Simmons R. K. , Khaw K. T. , Wareham N. J. , Griffin S. J.
Published: February 2012

Diabet. Med. 29, 893–904 (2012)

Background  Diabetes risk assessment has been proposed as part of the National Health Service Health Checks programme, and HbA1c has recently been recommended as a diagnostic test for diabetes at a threshold of 48 mmol/mol (6.5%). We estimated the potential population impact of different stepwise screening strategies to identify individuals at high risk who might be offered preventive interventions.

Methods  Using data from 5910 participants in the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer (EPIC)‐Norfolk cohort with HbA1c measurements, we modelled different stepwise screening strategies for identifying and treating individuals at high risk of Type 2 diabetes using different HbA1c cut‐off points with and without a stage of prestratification. For each strategy, we estimated the number needed to have a diagnostic test, the number needed to treat to prevent one new case of Type 2 diabetes, and the number of new cases that could be prevented in the population over 3 years. Relative risk reductions for estimated effects of intensive lifestyle intervention were derived from the US Diabetes Prevention Program.

Results  Compared with inviting all individuals in an average primary care trust for a diagnostic test, a stepwise screening approach using simple routine data such as age and anthropometric indices could prevent a slightly lower number (lower‐upper estimates) of new cases of Type 2 diabetes over 3 years (224 [130–359] and 193 [109–315] cases respectively) but would only require half the population to be invited for a diagnostic blood test. A total of 162 (88–274) cases could be prevented by inviting individuals with a Cambridge risk score of ≥ 0.15, with only 40% of the total population requiring diagnostic blood tests. Using a participant completed questionnaire for risk assessment (FINDRISC) was less effective, mainly relating to the questionnaire response rate. Providing preventive interventions to those with a lower HbA1c of 37–< 48 mmol/mol (5.5–< 6.5%) could prevent more cases but with a disproportionately higher workload, compared with using the recommended HbA1c threshold of 42–< 48 mmol/mol (6.0–< 6.5%).

Conclusions  Compared with mass screening, an approach using routine data for risk stratification followed by an HbA1c test with a threshold of 42–< 48 mmol/mol (6.0–< 6.5%) for identifying individuals suitable for preventive interventions might prevent slightly fewer cases of Type 2 diabetes but with potential cost‐savings.
FINE'S MCTAGGART, TEMPORAL PASSAGE, AND THE A VERSUS B‐DEBATE
Authors: Deng Natalja
Published: February 2012

I offer an interpretation and a partial defense of Kit Fine's ‘Argument from Passage’, which is situated within his reconstruction of McTaggart's paradox. Fine argues that existing A‐theoretic approaches to passage are no more dynamic, i.e. capture passage no better, than the B‐theory. I argue that this comparative claim is correct. Our intuitive picture of passage, which inclines us towards A‐theories, suggests more than coherent A‐theories can deliver. In Finean terms, the picture requires not only Realism about tensed facts, but also Neutrality, i.e. the tensed facts not being ‘oriented towards’ one privileged time. However unlike Fine, and unlike others who advance McTaggartian arguments, I take McTaggart's paradox to indicate neither the need for a more dynamic theory of passage nor that time does not pass. A more dynamic theory is not to be had: Fine's ‘non‐standard realism’ amounts to no more than a conceptual gesture. But instead of concluding that time does not pass, we should conclude that theories of passage cannot deliver the dynamicity of our intuitive picture. For this reason, a B‐theoretic account of passage that simply identifies passage with the succession of times is a serious contender.
Parental Emotion Coaching and Child Emotion Regulation as Protective Factors for Children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Authors: Dunsmore Julie C. , Booker Jordan A. , Ollendick Thomas H.
Published: February 2012

We assessed linkages of mothers' emotion coaching and children's emotion regulation and emotion lability/negativity with children's adjustment in 72 mother–child dyads seeking treatment for oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). Dyads completed the questionnaires and discussed emotion‐related family events. Maternal emotion coaching was associated with children's emotion regulation, which in turn was related to higher mother‐reported adaptive skills, higher child‐reported internalizing symptoms, and lower child‐reported adjustment. When children were high in emotion lability/negativity, mothers' emotion coaching was associated with lower mother and child reports of externalizing behavior. Results suggest the role of emotion regulation and emotion lability in child awareness of socio‐emotional problems and support the potential of maternal emotion coaching as a protective factor for children with ODD, especially for those high in emotion lability.
Is fatigue in early Parkinson’s disease a minor inconvenience or major distress? The answer is ‘yes!’
Authors: Friedman J. H.
Published: February 2012

Click here to view the accompanying paper in this issue.
Screening of the FUS gene in familial and sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients of Chinese origin
Authors: Zou Z.‐Y. , Peng Y. , Feng X.‐H. , Wang X.‐N. , Sun Q. , Liu M.‐S. , Li X.‐G. , Cui L.‐Y.
Published: February 2012

Background:  According to studies in European, North American, Australian, and Asian populations, FUS gene mutations occur in 0.6–20.2% of the patients with familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and 0.4–2.0% of sporadic ALS cases. In China, FUS mutations have been reported in several familial ALS pedigrees but not in sporadic ALS cases. Here, we screened for FUS mutations in Chinese patients with ALS.

Methods:  We sequenced all of the 15 exons of FUS in 10 familial ALS pedigrees, exons 5, 6, 14, and 15 in 210 patients with sporadic ALS and 151 healthy controls. All patients were negative for SOD1, TARDBP, and ANG mutations.

Results:  A c.1562G>T (p.R521L) missense mutation was identified in one familial ALS proband and her asymptomatic daughter. A c.1562G>A (p.R521H) missense mutation was identified in two patients with sporadic ALS. Three synonymous mutations (c.453C>T, c.648C>T, and c.1464C>T) were detected among four patients with sporadic ALS, and a untranslated region variant (*14C>T) was identified in one familial ALS proband and one patient with sporadic ALS.

Conclusions:  The frequency of FUS mutations is approximately 1.0% in our SOD1‐, ANG‐, TARDBP‐mutation‐negative sporadic ALS cohort and similar to that reported in previous studies from Asia in our familial ALS cohort. [Correction added on 31 May 2012, after first online publication: the gene FUS‐ was changed to ANG‐]. Our findings provide an overview of the occurrence of FUS mutations in Chinese sporadic and familial ALS cases and highlight the importance of screening for FUS mutations in ALS patients of Chinese origin.
Periodic leg movements in sleep in elderly patients with Parkinsonism and Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Bliwise D. L. , Trotti L. M. , Yesavage J. A. , Rye D. B.
Published: February 2012

Background:  Periodic leg movements in sleep (PLMS) are non‐epileptiform, repetitive movements of the lower limbs that have been associated with apparent dopamine deficiency. We hypothesized that elderly patients with a disease characterized primarily by dopamine depletion (Parkinsonism) would have higher rates of PLMS than age‐matched controls or a different neurodegenerative condition not primarily involving a hypodopaminergic state, Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods:  We compared rates of PLMS derived from in‐laboratory overnight polysomnography in patients with Parkinsonism (n = 79), AD (n = 28), and non‐neurologically impaired, community‐based controls (n = 187).

Results:  Patients with Parkinsonism not receiving levodopa had significantly higher rates of PLMS than did patients with Parkinsonism receiving levodopa as well as higher rates than seen in AD and controls. Other medications did not appear to exert the pronounced effect of levodopa on PLMS in this Parkinsonian patient population. The symptom of leg kicking was reported more frequently in Parkinsonism and was associated with higher rates of PLMS. Caregiver reported leg kicking was unrelated to PLMS in AD.

Conclusions:  Results are broadly compatible with a dopaminergic hypothesis for PLMS in Parkinsonism. The clinical significance of the negative findings in patients with AD requires further investigation.
Endemic Cyprus WarblerSylvia melanothoraxand colonizing Sardinian WarblerSylvia melanocephalashow different habitat associations
Authors: IERONYMIDOU CHRISTINA , COLLAR NIGEL J. , DOLMAN PAUL M.
Published: February 2012

Anthropogenic habitat change and assisted colonization are promoting range expansions of some widespread species with potential consequences for endemic fauna. The recent colonization of Cyprus by breeding Sardinian WarblersSylvia melanocephalahas raised concerns that it might be displacing the closely related and endemic Cyprus WarblerSylvia melanothorax. Habitat associations of both species were examined using models of abundance within the 95% density kernel of the Sardinian Warbler’s range and also outside this range for Cyprus Warbler. Within the Sardinian Warbler’s range, the two species were associated with subtly different scrub habitats. Outside the Sardinian Warbler’s range, the Cyprus Warbler differed again in its habitat association, but this probably resulted from marked differences in habitat extent and availability in different parts of the island rather than from competitive displacement, as none of the habitat or land‐use elements differentially associated with Cyprus Warblers was positively associated with Sardinian Warbler occurrence. This suggests that the Sardinian Warbler has exploited a different niche, rather than displacing the endemic species, and has perhaps benefitted from changing land‐use patterns, particularly recent fallows and abandoned agriculture, in contrast to the stronger association of Cyprus Warblers with semi‐natural scrub.
Quantitative assessment of higher‐order chromatin structure of the INK4/ARF locus in human senescent cells
Authors: Hirosue Akiyuki , Ishihara Ko , Tokunaga Kazuaki , Watanabe Takehisa , Saitoh Noriko , Nakamoto Masafumi , Chandra Tamir , Narita Masashi , Shinohara Masanori , Nakao Mitsuyoshi
Published: February 2012

Somatic cells can be reset to oncogene‐induced senescent (OIS) cells or induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells by expressing specified factors. The INK4/ARF locus encodes p15INK4b, ARF, and p16INK4a genes in human chromosome 9p21, the products of which are known as common key reprogramming regulators. Compared with growing fibroblasts, the CCCTC‐binding factor CTCF is remarkably up‐regulated in iPS cells with silencing of the three genes in the locus and is reversely down‐regulated in OIS cells with high expression of p15INK4b and p16INK4a genes. There are at least three CTCF‐enriched sites in the INK4/ARF locus, which possess chromatin loop‐forming activities. These CTCF‐enriched sites and the p16INK4a promoter associate to form compact chromatin loops in growing fibroblasts, while CTCF depletion disrupts the loop structure. Interestingly, the loose chromatin structure is found in OIS cells. In addition, the INK4/ARF locus has an intermediate type of chromatin compaction in iPS cells. These results suggest that senescent cells have distinct higher‐order chromatin signature in the INK4/ARF locus.
Thai Buddhist families' perspective of a peaceful death in ICUs
Authors: Kongsuwan Waraporn , Chaipetch Orapan , Matchim Yaowarat
Published: February 2012

Aim: To describe the concept of a peaceful death in intensive care units (ICUs) from the perspective of Thai Buddhist family members.

Methods: This descriptive qualitative study was based on data generated from individual in‐depth interviews of nine Thai Buddhist family members from the southern region of Thailand whose loved ones died in adult ICUs. Colaizzi's phenomenological approach was used to analyse the data. Rigour for the study was established by Lincoln and Guga's guidelines for qualitative research studies.

Findings: Five core qualities emerged that made‐up the concept of a peaceful death as described by Thai Buddhist family members who cared for their loved ones while they were dying in ICUs. These core qualities were ‘knowing death was impending, preparing for a peaceful state of mind, not suffering, being with family members and not alone, and family members were not mourning’.

Conclusion: Thai Buddhist family members described what they meant by a peaceful death. ‘This was: preparing for a peaceful state of mind in knowing that one's impending death is not a situation of suffering or being alone, but rather a time of being with family members who are not yet mourning one's death.’ The findings support that family members should participate in promoting a peaceful death for their loved ones dying in ICUs.

Implications for practice: The five core qualities of a peaceful death reported in this study could be used as a framework for nurses to create nursing practice interventions for quality end‐of‐life care for Thai Buddhists.
Vaginal vault dehiscence after laparoscopic hysterectomy over a nine‐year period at Sydney West Advanced Pelvic Surgery Unit – our experiences and current understanding of vaginal vault dehiscence
Authors: Chan Warren S. W. , Kong Karen K. Y. , Nikam Yogesh A , Merkur Harry
Published: February 2012

Background

A retrospective analysis of all women undergoing hysterectomy at Sydney West Advanced Pelvic Surgery Unit (SWAPS) was performed in the nine‐year period from 2001 to 2009.

Aims

To evaluate the incidence, timing and presenting symptoms of vaginal vault dehiscence after hysterectomy, especially via the laparoscopic approach to gain further understanding of patient risk factors and surgical factors that may predispose to this complication.

Methods

Women who presented with vaginal vault dehiscence were identified and possible pre‐operative, intra‐operative and post‐operative risk factors were assessed. A comprehensive literature search was performed to assess the current understanding and incidence of vault dehiscence after laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Results

A total of 1224 hysterectomies were performed between 2001 and 2009. 989 (80.80%) were performed laparoscopically of which five women (0.42%) presented with vault dehiscence post‐operatively. All had undergone total laparoscopic hysterectomy resulting in a vault dehiscence rate of 1.59% after total laparoscopic hysterectomy specifically. Baseline characteristics included a mean age of 42.8 years (37–51 years), mean BMI of 26.8 kg/m2 (23.8–32.3 kg/m2) and a mean parity of two deliveries (1–3 deliveries). The main presenting symptom of vaginal vault dehiscence was vaginal bleeding. Women with confirmed vaginal vault dehiscence readmitted to hospital at a mean of 18 days (11–28 days) post‐operatively.

Conclusion

Vaginal vault dehiscence is a rare complication after hysterectomy, but more common after a laparoscopic approach. A delayed presentation with vaginal bleeding was the main presenting symptom in this study – a literature review has shown common presenting symptoms to include abdominal pain, vaginal evisceration and vaginal bleeding. Techniques specific to total laparoscopic hysterectomy seem especially important in the increased risk of vaginal vault dehiscence seen after laparoscopic hysterectomy.
Cervical cerclage: A review of current evidence
Authors: Abbott Danielle , To Meekai , Shennan Andrew
Published: February 2012

Cervical cerclage is commonly used in the management of women considered to be at high risk of second‐trimester loss and spontaneous preterm birth. Insertion is dictated by factors such as multiple pregnancy, uterine anomalies, a history of cervical trauma through destructive procedures or forced dilatation, and cervical shortening seen on transvaginal ultrasound examination. However, its use and efficacy in these different groups is highly controversial as there is contradiction in the results of individual studies and meta‐analyses. This review examines the contemporary evidence on cervical cerclage and its current role in obstetrics.
Should Idiopathic Facial Aseptic Granuloma Be Considered Granulomatous Rosacea? Report of Three Pediatric Cases
Authors: Neri Iria , Raone Beatrice , Dondi Arianna , Misciali Cosimo , Patrizi Annalisa
Published: February 2012

Abstract:  Idiopathic facial aseptic granuloma (IFAG), or pyodermite froide du visage, is a skin disease reported only in children and characterized by painless red nodules usually located on the cheeks. Its etiology is still unclear, but some authors considered the possibility that IFAG might be included in the spectrum of granulomatous rosacea (GR). The histopathological features of IFAG and GR are quite similar, showing perifolliculitis, granulomas, folliculitis, and lymphocytes and plasmacells around epithelioid histiocytes. In the present article, we discuss three cases in which an association between a facial nodule, compatible with both IFAG and GR, and recurrent chalazia make us support the hypothesis that IFAG should be considered as GR.
Liposome‐Encapsulated Hemoglobin Ameliorates Tumor Hypoxia and Enhances Radiation Therapy to Suppress Tumor Growth in Mice
Authors: Murayama Chieko , Kawaguchi Akira T. , Ishikawa Kenji , Kamijo Akemi , Kato Nobusuke , Ohizumi Yukio , Sadahiro Sotaro , Haida Munetaka
Published: February 2012

We hypothesize that liposome‐encapsulated hemoglobin with high O2 affinity (P5002 = 12 mm Hg, h‐LEH) may increase O2 delivery to hypoxic tumors and enhance radiation therapy synergistically to suppress tumor growth. First, h‐LEH (5, 10, and 20 mL/kg) was intravenously infused 30 min before radiation (20 Gy) of SCCVII tumor grown in C3H/HeN mice. Second, 10 mL/kg of h‐LEH was administered 30, 60, 90, and 120 min prior to radiation to determine optimal timing. Tumor size was monitored thereafter to titrate tumor growth suppression. Third, additional mice with SCCVII tumor were infused with h‐LEH or empty liposome (EL), and tumors were excised at various time points for immunohistochemical examination of h‐LEH and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α). h‐LEH was most effective at 10 mL/kg in comparison to 5 or 20 mL/kg of h‐LEH or EL. Tumor growth was most suppressed when the interval between h‐LEH infusion and radiation was shortest, 30 min. As a result, 10 mL/kg of h‐LEH infusion 30 min prior to radiation prolonged 5‐fold tumor‐growth time from 20.0 days (radiation and EL) to 26.5 days, P < 0.01, synergy ratio 1.42. While human hemoglobin (h‐LEH) was detected in tumors 0.5 to 24 h after administration, HIF‐1α accumulation was sparse and became significantly reduced compared to controls 48 and 72 h after h‐LEH infusion. h‐LEH (10 mL/kg) was highly effective in enhancing radiation therapy synergistically under ambient respiration against tumor growth in mice. Decreased accumulation of HIF‐1α in h‐LEH‐treated tumor may suggest targeted tumor oxygenation as a potential mechanism.
Toxics, Toyotas, and Terrorism: The Behavioral Economics of Fear and Stigma
Authors: Schulze William , Wansink Brian
Published: February 2012

Economists have traditionally viewed the behavioral response to risk as continuous and proportional. In contrast, psychologists have often contended that people have little control over their response to risk that is dichotomous, nonproportional, visceral, and fear based. In extreme cases, this automatic response results in the stigmatization of a product, technology, or choice, which seemingly cannot be eliminated or reduced. In resolving these contrasting perspectives, we review four recent studies that blend behavioral economics and psychology. Together, they provide evidence for a dual‐process decision model for risk that incorporates both reason and fear. They show consumers’ responses to perceived risk as a mix of proportional and dichotomous (safe/unsafe) responses that are relatively more continuous in situations where deliberation is possible, and more dichotomous in emotional or stressful circumstances. These findings reconcile mixed results in past studies, and, more importantly, the dual‐process model allows a clear definition of stigma, and suggests new ways to mitigate stigma and to help manage potentially damaging overreactions to it.
Higher requirements of dialysis in severe lithium intoxication
Authors: Lopez Juan Carlos , Perez Xose , Labad Javier , Esteve Francisco , Manez Rafael , Javierre Casimiro
Published: February 2012

Severe lithium poisoning is a frequent condition in the intoxicated intensive care unit population. Dialysis is the treatment of choice, but no clinical markers predicting higher requirement for dialysis have been identified to date. We analyze the characteristics of lithium overdose patients needing dialysis to improve lithium clearance, and identify the ones associated with higher dialysis requirement. This is an observational, retrospective study of 14 patients with lithium poisoning admitted from 2004 to 2009. Median age was 41.8 ± 16.1 years. Poisonings were acute in 7.1%, acute‐on‐chronic in 64.28%, and chronic in 28.5% of cases. Comparing clinical and biochemical data in patients requiring more than one dialysis session with those requiring only one session, the univariate analysis showed differences at admission in creatinine clearance (40.5 ± 23 vs. 73.3 ± 24.9 mL/min, P = 0.025), white blood cells (17528 ± 3530 vs. 11580 ± 3360 cells/L, P = 0.007), and blood sodium concentration (134.8 ± 5.9 vs. 141.8 ± 8.4 mmol/L, P=0.035). We measured the degree of association between the number of sessions and the variables with partial correlations. High lithium levels (P = 0.006, r = 0.69), low creatinine clearance (P = 0.04, r = −0.55), and low blood sodium concentration (P = 0.024, r = −0.59) were associated with a greater number of dialysis sessions. The correlation remained significant for blood sodium concentration (P = 0.016, r = −0.67) after adjustment for creatinine clearance and initial lithium levels. Presence on admission of low creatinine clearance, low blood sodium concentration, and/or high lithium levels correlated with a higher number of dialysis sessions in severe lithium poisoning. These factors, especially low blood sodium concentration, are associated with higher dialysis requirements in severe lithium intoxication.
Peer Influences on Adolescent Alcohol and Other Drug Use Outcomes
Authors: Ramirez Rhonda , Hinman Agatha , Sterling Stacy , Weisner Constance , Campbell Cynthia
Published: February 2012

Purpose: To examine the role of family environment and peer networks in abstinence outcomes for adolescents 1 year after intake to alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment.

Design: Survey of 419 adolescents 13 to 18 years of age at consecutive intakes to AOD treatment programs at four sites of a large health system, with telephone follow‐up survey 1 year after intake.

Methods: Examined association of 1‐year abstinence with baseline characteristics. Using logistic regression, we examined characteristics predicting 1‐year abstinence and predicting having fewer than four substance‐using friends at 1 year.

Results: We found that family environment scores related to family conflict, limit setting, and positive family experiences, were not related to abstinence outcomes, but peer networks were related. Adolescents with fewer (less than four) AOD‐using friends were more likely to be abstinent than those with four or more AOD‐using friends (65% vs. 41%, p= .0002). Having fewer than four AOD‐using friends at intake predicted abstinence at 1 year (odds ratio [OR]= 2.904, p= .0002) and also predicted having fewer than four AOD‐using friends at 1 year (OR= 2.557, p= 0.0007).

Conclusions: Although family environment is an important factor in the development of AOD problems in adolescents, it did not play a significant role in treatment success. The quality of adolescent peer networks did independently predict positive outcomes.

Clinical Relevance: For physicians, advanced practice registered nurses, and other primary and behavioral care providers who screen and care for adolescents with AOD and other behavioral problems, our finding suggest the importance of focusing on improving the quality of their peer networks.

Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 2012; 44:1, XXX–XXX. ©2011 Sigma Theta Tau International.
A nematode, fungus, and aphid interact via a shared host plant: implications for soybean management
Authors: McCarville M. T. , O’Neal M. , Tylka G. L. , Kanobe C. , MacIntosh G. C.
Published: February 2012

Soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merrill (Fabaceae), is an introduced crop to America and initially benefited from a small number of pests threatening its production. Since its rapid expansion in production beginning in the 1930s, several pests have been introduced from the native range of soybean. Our knowledge of how these pests interact and the implications for management is limited. We examined how three common economic soybean pests, the nematode Heterodera glycines Ichinohe (Nematoda: Heteroderidae), the fungus Cadophora gregata Harrington & McNew (Incertae sedis), and the aphid Aphis glycines Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae), interact on soybean cyst nematode‐susceptible (SCN‐S) and soybean cyst nematode‐resistant cultivars carrying the PI 88788 resistance source (SCN‐R). From 2008 to 2010, six soybean cultivars were infested with either a single pest or all three pests in combination in a micro‐plot field experiment. Pest performance was measured in a ‘single pest’ treatment and compared with pest performance in the ‘multiple pest’ treatment, allowing us to measure the impact of SCN resistance and the presence of other soybean pests on each pest’s performance. Performance of H. glycines (80% reduction in reproduction) and A. glycines (19.8% reduction in plant exposure) was reduced on SCN‐R cultivars. Regardless of cultivar, the presence of multiple pests significantly decreased the performance of A. glycines, but significantly increased H. glycines performance. The presence of multiple pests decreased the performance of C. gregata on SCN‐S soybean cultivars (20.6% reduction in disease rating).
Maxillary sinus floor augmentation with injectable calcium phosphate cements: a pre‐clinical study in sheep
Authors: Hoekstra Jan Willem M. , Klijn Reinoud J. , Meijer Gert J. , van den Beucken Jeroen J. J. P. , Jansen John A.
Published: February 2012

Objectives

The aim of this pre‐clinical study was to evaluate the biological performance of two injectable calcium phosphate cement (CPC) composite materials containing poly(D,L‐lactic‐co‐glycolic)acid (PLGA) microspheres with different properties in a maxillary sinus floor elevation model in sheep.

Materials and methods

PLGA microspheres were made of either low molecular weight (~17 kDa) acid‐terminated PLGA (PLGAL‐AT) or high molecular weight (~44 kDa) end‐capped PLGA (PLGAH‐EC) and incorporated in CPC. Eight female Swifter sheep underwent a bilateral maxillary sinus floor elevation procedure via an extra‐oral approach. All animals received both materials, alternately injected in the left and right sinus (split‐mouth model) and a time point of 12 weeks was used. Analysis of biological performance was based on histology, histomorphometry, and evaluation of sequential fluorochrome labeling.

Results

Both types of CPC‐PLGA composites showed biocompatibility and direct bone‐cement contact. CPC‐PLGAL‐AT showed a significantly higher degradation distance compared to CPC‐PLGAH‐EC (1949 ± 1295 μm vs. 459 ± 267 μm; P = 0.0107). Further, CPC‐PLGAL‐AT showed significantly more bone in the region of interest (26.4 ± 10.5% vs. 8.6 ± 3.9% for PLGAH‐EC; P = 0.0009) and significantly less remaining CPC material (61.2 ± 17.7% vs. 81.9 ± 10.9% for PLGAH‐EC; P = 0.0192).

Conclusions

Both CPC‐PLGAL‐AT and CPC‐PLGAH‐EC demonstrated to be safe materials for sinus floor elevation procedures in a large animal model, presenting biocompatibility and direct bone contact. In view of material performance, CPC‐PLGAL‐AT showed significantly faster degradation and a significantly higher amount of newly formed bone compared to CPC‐PLGAH‐EC.
Molecular diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis and species identification: analysis of 122 biopsies with varied parasite index
Authors: Yehia Lamis , Adib‐Houreih Mohammad , Raslan Wasim Fawzi , Kibbi Abdul‐Ghani , Loya Asif , Firooz Alireza , Satti Mohamed , El‐Sabban Marwan , Khalifeh Ibrahim
Published: February 2012

Background: Cutaneous leishmaniasis is endemic in the Middle East and North Africa. Confirming the diagnosis histologically depends on amastigote identification, which varies significantly depending on the inoculum, strain type, host response and disease stage. Accurate histological diagnosis is mandatory for appropriate therapy.

Methods: Skin biopsies from 122 patients from Lebanon, Syria and Saudi Arabia with clinical diagnosis of untreated leishmaniasis were reviewed and clinical data extracted. Cases were classified according to the modified Ridley's parasitic index. DNA was extracted from formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded blocks. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed using Leishmania‐specific ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1‐PCR). Nested ITS1‐PCR was performed on cases negative for conventional ITS1‐PCR. ITS1‐PCR amplicons were digested with HaeIII for subsequent restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) subspeciation.

Results: Of 122 cases, 54 (44.3%) showed a parasitic index of 0–1+ (no unequivocal amastigotes). ITS1‐PCR (conventional and nested) was positive for all cases as compared with negative control tissue. RFLP identified Leishmania tropica in all cases. Patients with clinically suspected leishmaniasis, whose skin biopsies failed to detect amastigotes represented 44.3% of our cases.

Conclusions: In this study, we describe a rapid and optimized protocol from DNA extraction to leishmaniasis subspeciation. ITS1‐PCR showed high sensitivity and specificity in confirming clinically suspected cases.

Yehia L, Adib‐Houreih M, Raslan WF, Kibbi A‐G, Loya A, Firooz A, Satti M, El‐Sabban M, Khalifeh I. Molecular diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis and species identification: analysis of 122 biopsies with varied parasite index.
Bullous acral erythema: an additional consideration in the differential diagnosis of pauci‐inflammatory subepidermal bullae*
Authors: Podjasek Joshua O. , Camilleri Michael J.
Published: February 2012

Acral erythema is considered a frequent complication of chemotherapy administration. The bullous variant of chemotherapy‐induced acral erythema, or bullous acral erythema, occurs less commonly. The condition typically begins with acral dysesthesias and produces symmetric erythema that blisters and eventually desquamates. Overall, 32 cases of bullous acral erythema have been described in the literature, including 21 cases associated with cytarabine administration and 11 cases attributed to methotrexate. We describe a 61‐year‐old woman with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma in whom bullous acral erythema developed after she received cytarabine and methotrexate. The clinical presentation was unusual, as it was characterized by vesicles in an annular configuration suggestive of linear immunoglobulin A bullous disease. Histopathology revealed a pauci‐inflammatory subepidermal bulla that was similar to previously reported cases of bullous acral erythema. We suggest that bullous acral erythema represents an important diagnostic consideration in the differential diagnosis of pauci‐inflammatory subepidermal blistering in patients who have recently received chemotherapy.

Podjasek JO, Camilleri MJ. Bullous acral erythema: an additional consideration in the differential diagnosis of pauci‐inflammatory subepidermal bullae.
A comparative evaluation of pairwise nestedness measures
Authors: Podani János , Schmera Dénes
Published: February 2012

This paper deals with nestedness measures that are based on pairwise comparisons of sites, evaluates their performance and suggests improvements and generalizations. There are several conceptual and technical criteria to judge their ecological applicability. It is of primary concern whether the measures 1) have a clear mathematical definition, 2) are influenced by the ordering of the data matrix, 3) incorporate similarity alone or similarity together with a dissimilarity component, 4) consider site pairs with identical species number negatively or positively, 5) show sensitivity to small changes in the data, and 6) are not vulnerable to type I and type II error rates. We performed a detailed comparison of the nestedness metric based on overlap and decreasing fill (NODF), the percentage relativized nestedness and the percentage relativized strict nestedness functions (PRN and PRSN, respectively), based on analytical results as well as on artificial and actual examples. We show that NODF is in fact the average Simpson similarity of sites with different species totals, and that its value depends on how the matrix is actually ordered. NODF is modified to always produce the maximum possible result (NODFmax), independently of the order of columns and rows. Being based on similarities, NODF and NODFmax overemphasize the overlap component of nestedness and underrate richness difference which is also an important constituent of nested pattern in meta‐community data. This latter feature is reflected adequately by PRN and PRSN. However, PRSN is similar to NODF and NODFmax in sharing the disadvantages that 1) complete agreement and segregation in species composition are not distinguished, 2) a random matrix can have a higher value than truly nested patterns, and 3) they are ill‐conditioned statistically. These problems are rooted mostly in that site pairs with tied totals affect the result negatively. We emphasize that PRN is free from these difficulties. PRN, PRSN, and NODFmax, together with mean Simpson similarity exhibit highly similar statistical performance: they are resistant to type I and type II errors for the less constrained null models, although there are subtle differences depending on matrix fill and algorithm of randomization. The most constrained null model, with all marginal totals fixed, makes all statistics more sensitive to type I errors, although vulnerability depends greatly on matrix fill.
Influence of cavity design on the biomechanics of direct composite resin restorations in Class IV preparations
Authors: Xu Haiping , Jiang Zhe , Xiao Ximei , Fu Jing , Su Qin
Published: February 2012

Xu H, Jiang Z, Xiao X, Fu J, Su Q. Influence of cavity design on the biomechanics of direct composite resin restorations in Class IV preparations.
 
Eur J Oral Sci 2012; 120: 161–167. © 2012 Eur J Oral Sci

This study evaluated the effect of cavity design on stress distribution and fracture resistance of direct composite resin restorations in Class IV preparations. A finite element analysis (FEA) model of the maxillary central incisor with a Class IV cavity was established. Five model variations were studied: (i) a 1‐mm bevel (ii) a 2‐mm bevel, (iii) a plain chamfer, (iv) a stair‐step chamfer, and (v) butt joints (a control configuration). All FEA variations modeled a tooth restored with composite resin loaded under 100 N at an angle of 45° to the longitudinal axis. The interfacial von Mises stress was evaluated. The FEA was complemented with an in vitro assessment. Fracture resistance of direct composite resin restorations was tested with a universal testing machine and fracture patterns were observed. Finite element analysis showed that stress in chamfer and stair‐step chamfer models was more homogenously distributed, while stress in bevel models was relatively concentrated at lingual regions. Fracture resistance of a 1‐mm bevel preparation was lower than for the 2‐mm bevel, plain chamfer, and stair‐step chamfer preparations, but was higher than for butt joints. The stair‐step chamfer group presented the most favorable failure pattern. Considering biomechanics and esthetics, the present study indicates that the stair‐step chamfer and 2‐mm bevel should be recommended for clinical restoration.
Influence of prenatal iron deficiency and MAOA genotype on response to social challenge in rhesus monkey infants
Authors: Golub M. S. , Hogrefe C. E. , Unger E. L.
Published: February 2012

Social and emotional behaviors are known to be sensitive to both developmental iron deficiency (ID) and monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) gene polymorphisms. In this study, male rhesus monkey infants deprived of dietary iron in utero were compared with iron sufficient (IS) controls (n = 10/group). Half of each group had low MAOA activity genotypes and half had high MAOA activity genotypes. A series of social response tests were conducted at 3–14 months of age. MAOA genotype influenced attention to a video of aggressive behavior, emotional expression (fear, grimace and sniff) in the social intruder test, social actions (displacement, grooming) in the social dyad test, and aggressive responses to a threatening picture. Interactions between MAOA and prenatal ID were seen in response to the aggressive video, in temperament ratings, in affiliative behavior in the social dyad test, in cortisol response in the social buffering test and in response to a social intruder and to pictures with social and nonsocial themes. In general, the effects of ID were dependent on MAOA genotype in terms of both direction and size of the effect. Nutrition/genotype interactions may shed new light on behavioral consequences of nutritional deprivation during brain development.
Oral health status and reasons for not attending dental care among 12‐ to 16‐year‐old children with Down syndrome in special needs centres in Jordan
Authors: Al Habashneh R , Al‐Jundi S , Khader Y , Nofel N
Published: February 2012

To cite this article:   Int J Dent Hygiene10, 2012; 259–264  DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2012.00545.x

Al Habashneh R, Al‐Jundi S, Khader Y, Nofel N. Oral health status and reasons for not attending dental care among 12‐ to 16‐year‐old children with Down syndrome in special needs centres in Jordan.

Abstract:  Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess oral health status, treatment needs, soft and hard tissue findings, as well as reasons for not attending dental care among children with Down syndrome (DS) registered in special needs centres in Jordan. Methods: The sample consisted of a total of 206 participants with a mean age of 13.66 ± 1.47 comprising 103 with DS and 103 age‐ and gender‐matched non‐DS/public school children. Clinical levels of oral hygiene were assessed using Simplified Oral hygiene index, and caries detection was carried out according to WHO caries recording criteria. Results: Children who had DS had a significantly higher percentage of surfaces with severe gingival index (39.9 ± 9.1 versus 15.9 ± 8.0, P < 0.001) and a higher mean of probing pocket depth than children without DS (2.27 ± 0.2 versus 1.81 ± 0.32, P < 0.000). Significantly more peg‐shaped maxillary lateral incisors and retained primary teeth (P < 0.001) were observed in subjects with DS, compared with non‐DS children. Average decayed, missing and filled teeth (DMFT) was significantly lower in male children with DS compared with male non‐DS children only (P = 0.034). The most common reason cited for not taking children to the dentist for DS group was ‘Not aware of the dental problems of their children’ and for non‐DS groups ‘No awareness of the importance of dental visit’ (61.2% and 53%, respectively). Conclusions: While having similar caries level, Jordanian teenagers with DS had more dental anomalies, poorer periodontal health and less dental attendance than age‐ and gender‐matched non‐DS/public school children.
Primary and reversible Pisa syndrome in juvenile normal pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Leon-Sarmiento Fidias E. , Pradilla Gustavo , Zambrano Maria del Rosario
Published: February 2012

Objective

To report a case of Pisa syndrome in a patient with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus, who had never been exposed to psychotropic medications.

Methods

A 26-year-old, Colombian, male patient, was referred because he had cognitive abnormalities, gait disturbances and urinary incontinence. This patient also displayed pleurothotonos. Neurofunctional evaluations of sensory and motor integration at peripheral and central nervous system levels were done. Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) was diagnosed.

Results

Pisa syndrome disappeared after spinal tap drainage with further gait, balance and behavioural improvement. A brainstem-thalamocortical deregulation of the central sensory and motor programming, due to the chaotic enlargement of brain ventricles was thought to be the pathophysiological mechanism underlying this case.

Conclusion

NPH must not be longer considered as an exclusive geriatric disorder. Further, uncommon movement disorders may appear with this disorder, which should be carefully approached to avoid iatrogenic and deleterious pharmacological interventions.
Suppression of survival signalling pathways by the phosphatase PHLPP
Authors: O’Neill Audrey K. , Niederst Matthew J. , Newton Alexandra C.
Published: February 2012

The recently discovered pleckstrin homology (PH) domain leucine‐rich repeat protein phosphatase (PHLPP) family is emerging as a central component in suppressing cell survival pathways. Originally discovered in a rational search for a phosphatase that directly dephosphorylates and inactivates Akt, PHLPP is now known to potently suppress cell survival both by inhibiting proliferative pathways and by promoting apoptotic pathways. In the first instance, PHLPP directly dephosphorylates a conserved regulatory site (termed the hydrophobic motif) on Akt, protein kinase C and S6 kinase, thereby terminating signalling by these pro‐survival kinases. In the second instance, PHLPP dephosphorylates and thus activates the pro‐apoptotic kinase Mst1, thereby promoting apoptosis. PHLPP is deleted in a large number of cancers and the genetic deletion of one isozyme in a PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homologue located on chromosome 1) +/− (or heterozygous) prostate cancer model results in increased tumourigenesis, underscoring the role of PHLPP as a tumour suppressor. This review summarizes the targets and cellular actions of PHLPP, with emphasis on its role as a tumour suppressor in the oncogenic phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt signalling cascade.
Effects of Rifampicin, Dexamethasone, St. John's Wort and Thyroxine on Maternal and Foetal Expression of Abcb1 and Organ Distribution of Talinolol in Pregnant Rats
Authors: Saljé Karen , Lederer Kirstin , Oswald Stefan , Dazert Eike , Warzok Rolf , Siegmund Werner
Published: February 2012

It is well accepted that ABCB1 plays a critical role in absorption, distribution and elimination of many xenobiotics and drugs. Only little is known about the regulation and function of ABCB1 during pregnancy. Thus, the aim of this study is to investigate maternal, placental and foetal Abcb1 expression and function in pregnant rats after induction with rifampicin, dexamethasone, St. John's wort (SJW) or thyroxine. Wistar rats were orally treated with rifampicin (250 mg/kg), SJW (1.0 g/kg), thyroxine (9 μg/kg), dexamethasone (1 mg/kg) or 0.5% methylcellulose suspension (control) for 9 days during late pregnancy (each N = 5). Afterwards, organ mRNA expression and protein content of Abcb1a were determined. Tissue concentrations of the ABCB1 probe drug talinolol were measured after repeated administration of the drug (100 mg/kg, 9 days) and after induction with oral rifampicin (250 mg/kg, 9 days, N = 5). Abcb1 expression was substantially lower in foetal than in maternal organs. Abcb1 was significantly induced by SJW in the maternal jejunum and placenta, by dexamethasone in foetal brain and liver and by thyroxine in the placenta and maternal and foetal brain. Rifampicin induced Abcb1 in all maternal and foetal organs. However, organ distribution of talinolol was not influenced by comedication of rifampicin. In conclusion, maternal and foetal Abcb1 organ expression in pregnant rats is inducible by nuclear receptor agonists. Although rifampicin regulates maternal and foetal Abcb1 expression, organ distribution of talinolol remains unchanged most likely caused by the known inhibitory effect of rifampicin on Abcb1 function.
Krukenberg tumours of colorectal origin: Experience of a tertiary referral centre and review of the literature
Authors: Tai Dora Kai‐Chun , Li Wing‐Hong , Cheung Moon‐Tong
Published: February 2012

Aim:  Krukenberg tumours are tumours of the gastrointestinal tract that metastasize to the ovary. The condition is uncommon and accounts for 5 per cent of ovarian tumours. It is our objective to describe the outcome of patients after resection of Krukenberg tumours of colorectal origin.

Patients and Methods:  The present study is a retrospective review of 20 patients with resection performed for Krukenberg tumours of colorectal origin from November 1996 to April 2010 at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China.

Results:  The most common colonic primary site was sigmoid colon (40 per cent). Thirteen patients (65 per cent) had T4 tumours. Ten patients (50 per cent) had synchronous tumours. Seven patients (35 per cent) had bilateral ovarian involvement. Nine patients (45 per cent) had elevated serum carcinoembryonic antigen levels. The median carbohydrate antigen 125 (was 57 U/mL (range: 12–850 U/mL). Seven patients (35 per cent) developed metastases after ovarian resection. The most common sites were intra‐abdominal lymph nodes (15 per cent), bone (15 per cent) and liver (10 per cent). The overall 3‐ and 5‐year survival rates after ovarian resection were 40 per cent and 25 per cent, respectively. Right colon cancer (30 per cent right colon vs 60 per cent left colon vs 10 per cent rectum, P = 0.021) and T4 staging of the colonic primary (30 per cent T3 vs 65 per cent T4, P = 0.033) were found to be poor prognostic factors for survival.

Conclusion:  Although recurrence after resection of Krukenberg tumours is common, bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy should still be considered. A more aggressive approach, such as debulking surgery or metastasectomy, is also recommended to improve the outcome of these patients.
Predicting Collector Well Yields with MODFLOW
Authors: Kelson Vic
Published: February 2012

Groundwater flow models are commonly used to design new wells and wellfields. As the spatial scale of the problem is large and much local‐scale detail is not needed, modelers often utilize two‐dimensional (2D) or quasi three‐dimensional models based on the Dupuit‐Forchheimer assumption. Dupuit models offer a robust set of tools for simulating regional groundwater flow including interactions with surface waters, the potential for well interference, and varying aquifer properties and recharge rates. However, given an assumed operating water level or drawdown at a well screen, Dupuit models systematically overpredict well yields. For design purposes, this discrepancy is unacceptable, and a method for predicting accurate well yields is needed. While published methods exist for vertical wells, little guidance is available for predicting yields in horizontal screens or collector wells. In plan view, a horizontal screen has a linear geometry, and will likely extend over several neighboring cells that may not align with rows or columns in a numerical model. Furthermore, the model must account for the effects of converging three‐dimensional (3D) flow to the well screens and hydraulic interference among the well screens; these all depend on the design of a specific well. This paper presents a new method for simulating the yield of angled or horizontal well screens in numerical groundwater flow models, specifically using the USGS code MODFLOW. The new method is compared to a detailed, 3D analytic element model of a collector well in a field of uniform flow.