bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Late failure of a split‐thickness skin graft in the setting of homozygous factor V Leiden mutation: a case report and correlative animal model from the Wound Etiology and Healing (WE‐HEAL) study
Authors: Shanmugam Victoria K , McNish Sean , Duncan Joanna , Root Brandy , Tassi Elena , Wellstein Anton , Kallakury Bhaskar , Attinger Christopher E
Published: September 2013

We present the case of a 53‐year‐old Caucasian male smoker with remote history of left lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and a strong family history of thrombosis, who presented to the Center for Wound Healing at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital with spontaneous left leg ulceration. Prothrombotic evaluation showed homozygosity for the factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation. Therapeutic anticoagulation was commenced with warfarin (Coumadin®) and the patient underwent successful debridement and Apligraf® followed by split‐thickness skin graft (STSG) of two wounds. He had an uneventful postoperative course and on the 27th postoperative day the grafts were 95% intact. However, by postoperative day 41 there was 10% graft loss, and over the subsequent 2 weeks both grafts necrosed. On further questioning, it transpired that the patient had discontinued his warfarin on postoperative day 37 because he thought that it was no longer necessary. The patient is enrolled in the Wound Etiology and Healing (WE‐HEAL) study, and at the time of the original graft, residual skin fragments from the STSG were transplanted onto a nude mouse for development of an animal model of wound healing. The mouse graft was successful and was harvested at postoperative day 87 for pathological examination. We review the mechanisms by which prothrombotic states, particularly FVL mutation, can contribute to skin graft failure and delayed wound healing. This case highlights the importance of considering prothrombotic conditions in patients with spontaneous leg ulcerations and the impact of therapeutic anticoagulation on healing. It further allows us to demonstrate the efficacy of the animal model in which residual fragments of STSG tissue are utilised for transplant onto nude mice for manipulation in the laboratory.
Ex vivo biomechanical comparison of a 3.5 mm locking compression plate applied cranially and a 2.7 mm locking compression plate applied medially in a gap model of the distal aspect of the canine radius
Authors: Uhl Justin M. , Kapatkin Amy S. , Garcia Tanya C. , Stover Susan M.
Published: September 2013

Objective

To compare a medially applied 2.7 mm locking compression plate (LCP) to a cranially applied 3.5 mm LCP in a cadaveric distal radial fracture gap model.

Study Design

In vitro mechanical testing of paired cadaveric limbs

Sample Population

Paired radii (n = 8) stabilized with either a 2.7 mm LCP medially or a 3.5 mm LCP cranially.

Methods

Simulated distal radial comminuted fractures were created and stabilized with an LCP plate on the cranial surface in 1 limb, and on the medial surface in the contralateral limb. Gap stiffness, gap strain, and failure properties were compared between cranial and medial plate positions. Limb constructs were axially loaded, cyclically through 4 conditions that allowed mediolateral or craniocaudal bending at walk and trot loads, before monotonic failure loading. The effects of plate position on mechanical variables were assessed using paired t‐tests.

Results

Gap stiffness was greater for cranial plate constructs than medial plate constructs for axial loading with mediolateral bending, but lower with craniocaudal bending. However, in loading that facilitated craniocaudal bending the medial plate construct also had bending apparent in the mediolateral direction. Gap strains for the different conditions followed similar trends as stiffness. Cranial plate constructs had significantly higher monotonic stiffness, yield, and failure loads.

Conclusion

The larger, cranially applied LCP was biomechanically superior to the smaller, medially applied LCP in our distal radial fracture gap model, however the medial plate was superior to the cranial plate in cyclic loading allowing craniocaudal bending.
Contact with Primary Care: The Experience of People with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Perry Jonathan , Felce David , Kerr Mike , Bartley Stuart , Tomlinson Judith , Felce Janet
Published: September 2013

Background

People with intellectual disabilities experi‐ence disparities in their health and health care. Annual health checks are intended to counter such disparity by improving access to primary health care. However, little is known about their experience of having a health check or other types of contact with primary care services.

Materials and Methods

The findings of two studies which used focus groups were combined. 102 people with intellectual disabilities participated in the focus groups.

Results

Participants' experiences of primary care services generally, and health checks in particular, were positive. However, unanimity was rare on any of the topics discussed and a number of areas of dissatisfaction emerged.

Conclusions

Further studies with larger and more representative samples are necessary as feedback from people with intellectual disabilities about their experience of contact with primary care staff might help to enhance GP knowledge about their health requirements.
Ex vivo dermatoscopy of scalp specimens and slides
Authors: Miteva M. , Lanuti E. , Tosti A.
Published: September 2013

Background

Correct evaluation of horizontal scalp biopsies requires accurate gross sectioning and embedding of the tissue. The most common issue during processing includes incorrect specimen bisection.

Objectives

To verify if (i) ex vivo assessment of scalp biopsies by contact dermatoscopy can identify the correct plane of transverse bisection as well as (ii) if using contact dermatoscopy on the glass slides can be useful to control the tissue processing and expedite sign‐out.

Materials and methods

For the first aim, dermatoscopic pictures of 43 scalp biopsies were printed and shown to 10 dermatology residents not involved in the study, who were asked to identify and highlight the dermo‐epidermal junction. For the second aim, dermatoscopic captions of 40 horizontal sections were evaluated in a blinded way for the size of the specimen as well as the level and plane of bisection. The agreement was investigated using Cohen's κ statistics.

Results

Ten independent observers were able to correctly identify the dermo‐epidermal junction as a brownish wavy line in 95.3% cases. The Cohen's κ statistics showed almost perfect agreement. Two independent pathologists agreed on the specimen size in all cases, on the specimen plane in 39 cases and on the specimen level on 35 cases. The Cohen's κ statistics showed almost complete agreement for the size and plane of bisection and substantial agreement for the level of section.

Conclusion

Ex vivo dermatoscopy of scalp biopsies may be a new way to decrease laboratory costs and improve turnaround time in hair pathology as this technique optimally guides the correct bisection at 1–1.5 mm below the junction. Ex vivo dermatoscopy on the slides may expedite sign out after the initial bisection.
Adaptive characterization of recrystallization kinetics in IF steel by electron backscatter diffraction
Authors: KIM DONG‐KYU , PARK WON‐WOONG , LEE HO WON , KANG SEONG‐HOON , IM YONG‐TAEK
Published: September 2013

In this study, a rigorous methodology for quantifying recrystallization kinetics by electron backscatter diffraction is proposed in order to reduce errors associated with the operator's skill. An adaptive criterion to determine adjustable grain orientation spread depending on the recrystallization stage is proposed to better identify the recrystallized grains in the partially recrystallized microstructure. The proposed method was applied in characterizing the microstructure evolution during annealing of interstitial‐free steel cold rolled to low and high true strain levels of 0.7 and 1.6, respectively. The recrystallization kinetics determined by the proposed method was found to be consistent with the standard method of Vickers microhardness. The application of the proposed method to the overall recrystallization stages showed that it can be used for the rigorous characterization of progressive microstructure evolution, especially for the severely deformed material.
Molecular features of neural stem cells enable their enrichment using pharmacological inhibitors of survival‐promoting kinases
Authors: Brazel Christine Y. , Alaythan Abdulaziz A. , Felling Ryan J. , Calderon Frances , Levison Steven W.
Published: September 2013

Isolating a pure population of neural stem cells (NSCs) has been difficult since no exclusive surface markers have been identified for panning or FACS purification. Moreover, additional refinements for maintaining NSCs in culture are required, since NSCs generate a variety of neural precursors (NPs) as they proliferate. Here, we demonstrate that post‐natal rat NPs express low levels of pro‐apoptotic molecules and resist phosphatidylinositol 3′OH kinase and extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 inhibition as compared to late oligodendrocyte progenitors. Furthermore, maintaining subventricular zone precursors in LY294002 and PD98059, inhibitors of PI3K and ERK1/2 signaling, eliminated lineage‐restricted precursors as revealed by enrichment for Nestin+/SOX‐2+ cells. The cells that survived formed neurospheres and 89% of these neurospheres were tripotential, generating neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes. Without this enrichment step, less than 50% of the NPs were Nestin+/SOX‐2+ and 42% of the neurospheres were tripotential. In addition, neurospheres enriched using this procedure produced 3‐times more secondary neurospheres, supporting the conclusion that this procedure enriches for NSCs. A number of genes that enhance survival were more highly expressed in neurospheres compared to late oligodendrocyte progenitors. Altogether, these studies demonstrate that primitive neural precursors can be enriched using a relatively simple and inexpensive means that will facilitate cell replacement strategies using stem cells as well as other studies whose goal is to reveal the fundamental properties of primitive neural precursors.

image

Neural stem cells resist death effectors, which contributes to their longevity. We demonstrate that primitive Subventricular Zone neural precursors express low levels of pro‐apoptotic molecules and resist PI3K (PD98059) and ERK1/2 (LY‐294002) inhibition. By contrast, progenitors expressed higher levels of cell‐death signaling molecules. Using combinations of PI3K and ERK1/2 inhibitors, cultures highly enriched in tripotential neural precursors were produced.
Exploring motivation and confidence in taking prescribed medicines in coexisting diseases: a qualitative study
Authors: Williams Allison , Manias Elizabeth
Published: September 2013

Aims and objectives

To explore the motivation and confidence of people with coexisting diabetes, chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hypertension to take their medicines as prescribed.

Background

These comorbidities are major contributors to disease burden globally. Self‐management of individuals with these coexisting diseases is much more complicated than that of those with single diseases and is critical for improved health outcomes.

Design

Motivational interviewing telephone calls were made with participants with coexisting diabetes, CKD and hypertension.

Methods

Patients aged ≥18 years with diabetes, CKD and systolic hypertension were recruited from outpatient clinics of an Australian metropolitan hospital between 2008–2009. An average of four motivational interviewing telephone calls was made with participants (n = 39) in the intervention arm of a randomised controlled trial. Data were thematically analysed using the modified Health Belief Model as a framework.

Results

Participants' motivation and confidence in taking prescribed medicines was thwarted by complex medicine regimens and medical conditions. Participants wanted control over their health and developed various strategies to confront threats to health. The perceived barriers of taking recommended health action outweighed the benefits of taking medicines as prescribed and were primarily related to copious amounts of medicines.

Conclusion

Taking multiple prescribed medicines in coexisting diabetes, CKD and hypertension is a perpetual vocation with major psychosocial effects. Participants were overwhelmed by the number of medicines that they were required to take. The quest for personal control of health, fear of the future and the role of stress and gender in chronic disease management have been highlighted. Participants require supportive emotional interventions to self‐manage their multiple medicines on a daily basis.

Relevance to clinical practice

Reducing the complexity of medicine regimens in coexisting diseases is paramount. Individualised psychosocial approaches that address the emotional needs of patients with regular follow‐up and feedback are necessary for optimal chronic disease self‐management.
Incidence of pregnancy‐related discomforts and management approaches to relieve them among pregnant women
Authors: Nazik Evsen , Eryilmaz Gulsen
Published: September 2013

Aims and objectives

To determine the incidence of pregnancy‐related physical symptoms in healthy pregnant women and their management strategies.

Background

In normal progression of pregnancy, many symptoms were experienced. Pregnancy‐related physical symptoms may have a negative effect on pregnant women's quality of life. However, pregnant women avoid taking medications from the fear that the medication they use may have a harmful effect on the foetus. Therefore, they practise nonpharmacological methods to help them manage their pregnancy‐related physical symptoms.

Design

This study used a comparative and descriptive design.

Methods

The study population comprised of pregnant women who were visiting for routine check‐up and/or examination in the obstetrics gynaecology outpatient clinics of three hospitals in Erzurum, Turkey. The data were collected via a questionnaire including socio‐demographic items and questions to identify the pregnancy‐related physical symptoms that they experienced and their management strategies.

Results

The top three most reported complaints were nausea–vomiting (87·8%), fatigue (77·9%) and breast pain–tenderness (76·2%) during the first trimester, whereas polyuria (79·9%, 88·4%), fatigue (75·6%, 88·4%) and heart burn (71·3%, 81·8%) during the second and third trimesters. Depending on the symptoms, the pregnant women either did nothing or took correct, incorrect or empirical actions to manage their problems. Data revealed that the major source of knowledge was based on their previous experience and that of close relatives. As their education level increased, the percentage of women taking scientifically proven action to correct the problem increased.

Conclusions

Various physical symptoms were experienced by women in each trimester of pregnancy. The majority of the women did not do anything to alleviate their physical symptoms.

Relevance to clinical practice

Midwives and nurses should question the strategies used by pregnant women. In this way, the inappropriate and incorrect practices can be determined, and education on the appropriate practices can be provided.
Psychosocial effects of Tai Chi exercise on people with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Waite‐Jones Jennifer M , Hale Claire A , Lee Hea‐Young
Published: September 2013

Aims and objectives

To investigate the perceived psychosocial effects of participating in taught sessions of Tai Chi on people diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Background

Tai Chi is thought to be psychologically as well as physically beneficial for people with arthritis.

Design

This study adopted a qualitative approach to follow‐up participants who had previously demonstrated physical and psychological benefits from a specifically modified Tai Chi programme in an attempt to explore perceived psychosocial improvements.

Methods

Nineteen semi‐structured, audio‐taped, interviews were carried out with participants who had taken part in, twice weekly, group‐based Tai Chi sessions for 12 weeks. Data from transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Analysis suggests that participating in shared Tai Chi sessions provides increased awareness of the links between mind and body; reduces anxiety and depression; and improves self‐esteem, self‐efficacy and motivation. It was particularly striking to find that the highly structured nature of Tai Chi was felt to improve memory and seemed to offer aesthetic experiences through developing graceful, ‘fluid’ moves rather than the ‘jarring’ movements often imposed by having RA. Such group sessions were found to provide social support and help improve participants' sense of perspective.

Conclusion

Although small scale, this study suggests that Tai Chi has the potential to offer psychosocial benefits for people with RA.

Relevance to clinical practice

Offering Tai Chi alongside traditional treatments for RA could promote psychological health and well‐being, help inform clinical decision‐making and prove cost‐effective.
Contraception knowledge and attitudes: truths and myths among African Australian teenage mothers in Greater Melbourne, Australia
Authors: Ngum Chi Watts Mimmie C , Liamputtong Pranee , Carolan Mary
Published: September 2013

Aims and objectives

To discuss the contraception knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of African Australian teenagers and women with a refugee background in Melbourne.

Background

The numbers of African Australian persons continue to increase, with a significant proportion being refugee women and children. Attitudes and behaviours towards contraception in this group continue to be influenced by culture, family and beliefs.

Design

This study is based on qualitative research that was underpinned by intersectionality theory, cultural competency and phenomenology.

Participants

Sixteen teenagers and women who had experienced teenage pregnancy in Greater Melbourne, Australia, were interviewed.

Methods

In‐depth interviews were conducted with the sixteen African Australian teenagers and women. Following data collection, data were transcribed verbatim, and coded, and key themes identified and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Knowledge of contraception among this group of migrants was low and filled with myths. Attitudes towards contraception use were insufficient and influenced by beliefs and external factors such as partner, family and community attitudes towards contraception. Migration status and other instabilities in the lives of these participants all intersected to shape their health beliefs and contraception decision‐making.

Conclusions

Refugee teenage mothers' knowledge of contraception was low and their attitude towards contraceptive use was poor. Myths and external factors continued to influence teenagers' and women's attitudes towards contraceptives. The events and life experiences of African Australian teenagers/women, culture, and family and community influences should be taken into consideration when providing healthcare services and sexual health education to this migrant group.

Relevance to clinical practice

Service providers should consider the multiple intersections in the lives of these women when delivering healthcare services and information to them.
Patient retention of training in self‐administration of intravenous antibiotic therapy in an outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy service
Authors: Eaves Kathryn , Thornton Julie , Chapman Ann LN
Published: September 2013

Aims and objectives

To assess patient retention of initial training on completion of self‐administration of a prolonged course of intravenous therapy.

Background

Outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy is being used increasingly in the UK, and patients requiring prolonged antibiotic courses may be trained to self‐administer therapy.

Design

Prospective clinical evaluation.

Methods

Patients self‐administering parenteral antibiotic therapy through the Sheffield outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy service were assessed when nearing completion of therapy for correct technique in five key areas of proficiency using a scoring system.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients and nine carers were reassessed, at a median interval of 35 days after completion of the initial training package. Of these, 35 of 38 were fully competent in all areas. Three patients showed incomplete retention of their initial training. All made errors relating to use of sterile technique.

Conclusions

Overall retention of training was excellent, and this supports earlier reports that patient‐administered outpatient parenteral antibiotic therapy is as safe as nurse‐administered therapy. However, this study highlighted a small number of patients or carers who were not fully competent at maintaining sterile technique, and as a result, the protocol for training patients has been altered.

Relevance to clinical practice

In this study, we assess patients' ability to maintain safe self‐administration of therapy over a period of time. Patients are increasingly involved and engaged in their own health care, and this study provides a novel approach to assessing their competence in practical procedures.
Life after critical illness: an overview
Authors: Rattray Janice
Published: September 2013

Aims and objectives

To illustrate the potential physical and psychological problems faced by patients after an episode of critical illness, highlight some of the interventions that have been tested and identify areas for future research.

Background

Recovery from critical illness is an international problem and as an issue is likely to increase. For some, recovery from critical illness is prolonged, subject to physical and psychological problems that may negatively impact upon health‐related quality of life.

Methods

The literature accessed for this review includes the work of a number of key researchers in the field of critical care research. These were identified from a number of sources include (1) personal knowledge of the research field accumulated over the last decade and (2) using the search engine ‘The Knowledge Network Scotland’.

Results

Fatigue and weakness are significant problems for critical care survivors and are common in patients who have been in ICU for more than one week. Psychological problems include anxiety, depression, post‐traumatic stress, delirium and cognitive impairment. Prevalence of these problems is difficult to establish for a number of methodological reasons that include the use of self‐report questionnaires, the number of different questionnaires used and the variation in administration and timing. Certain subgroups of ICU survivors especially those at the more severe end of the illness severity spectrum are more at risk and this has been demonstrated for both physical and psychological problems. Findings from international studies of a range of potential interventions are presented. However, establishing effectiveness for most of these still has to be empirically demonstrated.

Conclusion

What seems clear is the need for a co‐ordinated, multidisciplinary, designated recovery and rehabilitation pathway that begins as soon as the patient is admitted into an intensive care unit.
American on Everest: Individualism, the American Intellectual Tradition, and the Dream of Woodrow Wilson Sayre
Authors: Sutch Christopher
Published: September 2013

This article identifies the American philosophical antecedents that informed Woodrow Wilson Sayre's failed attempt to climb Mount Everest in 1962. Sayre, a philosophy professor at Tufts University, was an extreme proponent of individualism and saw the challenge of climbing Everest as a struggle of one man against cold, “antiseptic” Nature. In his writings on the subject Sayre uses some of the same cultural notions about humanity and mountains that were current in American intellectual culture during the 19th century. The paper traces these notions from the Transcendentalists and American poetic descriptions of mountains through to Sayre's writings. The paper ends by describing the official response to Sayre's expedition as revealed in archival sources.
Implementing Technologies for Financial Service Innovations in Base of the Pyramid Markets
Authors: Berger Estelle , Nakata Cheryl
Published: September 2013

This study examines how information communications technologies (ICTs) can be implemented effectively to provide financial service innovations to the poor who live in developing countries, a market collectively known as the “Base of the Pyramid” or BOP. The BOP needs—but commonly lacks—basic financial services, a situation that perpetuates poverty. With a dearth of formal banks especially in rural areas of developing countries, the BOP has almost no access to savings accounts, credit lines, and other necessary services. However, ICTs have the potential to overcome cost, infrastructure, and other barriers to service delivery, and are being used to offer new financial services such as mobile phone banking to the BOP. The purpose of this study is to determine ways of successfully implementing these technology‐enabled service innovations.

The study draws on the Socio‐Technical View for theoretical girding, and uses case method to examine multiple ICT implementation projects in five sub‐Saharan African countries (Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, and Uganda). The projects, which were carried out by a leading microfinance banking organization named Opportunity International, provided mobile banks, point‐of‐service, and mobile phone banking services to the BOP. Several techniques were applied to gather data in the field over a two‐year period: depth interviews, direct observations, and internal document and data analysis. Multiple forms of evidence were triangulated against one another, and analyzed across cases until themes emerged and converged. In doing so, two specific forms of analysis, explanation building and cross‐case synthesis, were employed to make sense of the data.

The findings, summarized as research propositions, collectively conclude that implementation is effective when the unique socio‐human, governmental‐regulatory, and market conditions of the BOP are accounted for, such that fit is achieved between the technologies and environments they are situated in. More specifically, effectiveness comes when implementation (1) addresses customer and agent limits with the technologies, and is accepted and supported by trained staff who monitor technology use and make responsive system adjustments; (2) exploits and promotes supportive governmental regulations and actions, as well as leverages sound electronic fund transfer (EFT) switches, whether government or bank established; and (3) accounts for low business capabilities and evolving market competition, along with the underdeveloped financial sector and financial literacy of the population. In sum, there are multiple factors that should be considered in the design and installation activities surrounding these technologies to ensure they provide cost‐effective, quality financial services to the poor.
Effects of high‐fat and high‐carbohydrate diets on fat and carbohydrate oxidation and plasma metabolites in healthy cats
Authors: Gooding M. A. , Flickinger E. A. , Atkinson J. L. , Duncan I. J. H. , Shoveller A. K.
Published: September 2013

High‐fat (HF) or high‐carbohydrate (HC) diets (30% fat, 18.9% carbohydrate;HFand 10% fat, 46.3% carbohydrate;HC) and lengths of adaptation were investigated in cats (Felis catus; 10 ± 2 months, 3.6 ± 0.3 kg). Cats randomly received each treatment for 14 days in a crossover design with a 14‐day washout period between each diet. Three 22‐h indirect calorimetry studies were conducted after acute (day 0), semichronic (day 4) and chronic (day 13) dietary exposure. Blood samples were collected after a 24‐h fast on days 1, 5 and 14. When cats consumed theHCandHFdiet, oxidation of the restricted nutrient exceeded intake while oxidation of the nutrient in excess matched intake. Mean max energy expenditure (EE) of cats consuming theHFandHCdiet were 107 and 102 kcal/kg0.67/day and occurred at a mean of 4 and 12 h post‐feeding respectively. Maximal fat (0.90 g/h) and carbohydrate (carbohydrate; 1.42 g/h) oxidation were attained at 26 min and 10.4 h post‐feeding respectively. The changes observed in macronutrient oxidation andEEsuggest that cats adapt whole‐body nutrient metabolism in response to changes in dietary macronutrient content, but may require longer than 14 day to adapt to a macronutrient that is present at a lower concentration in the diet.
BOOTSTRAP FOR RANDOM COEFFICIENT AUTOREGRESSIVE MODELS
Authors: Fink Thorsten , Kreiss Jens‐Peter
Published: September 2013

In this paper, we deal with autoregressive processes with random coefficients. We propose a least‐squares estimator for the fourth‐order moments of both the innovation and disturbance noises and state its consistency. The main theme of the paper is the development of bootstrap procedures for the autoregressive parameter. We show how to obtain approximative residuals for the process even though the standard method for autoregressive processes does not work in this context since one then would obtain convoluted residuals of the innovation and disturbance noises. These ideas lead to a modification of the classical residual bootstrap for autoregressive processes. The consistency of the bootstrap procedure is established. Further, the estimators proposed in the first part are used to form two wild bootstrap modifications. Finally, the performances of the three bootstrap procedures are explored by a simulation study and compared with each other.
Evaluation of Efficacy of Mineral Oil, Charcoal, and Smectite in a Rat Model of Equine Cantharidin Toxicosis
Authors: Qualls H.J. , Holbrook T.C. , Gilliam L.L. , Njaa B.L. , Panciera R.J. , Pope C.N. , Payton M.E.
Published: September 2013

Background

The efficacy of orally administered therapeutics for the treatment of cantharidin intoxication has not been evaluated in controlled studies.

Objective

To develop a model of acute cantharidin intoxication in laboratory rats and to evaluate in this model the relative efficacy of 3 gastrointestinal therapies used to treat equine cantharidin toxicosis.

Animals

Sixty‐four male Sprague‐Dawley rats.

Methods

A blinded, randomized, controlled study was performed on rats surgically implanted with telemetry transmitters for evaluating heart rate, locomotor activity, and body temperature. Orogastric administration of cantharidin was performed within 15 seconds before administration of mineral oil, activated charcoal, or smectite. Negative control groups received therapeutic agents alone. Urine was collected for cantharidin analysis. Rats were sacrificed 24 hours after intoxication, and tissues were collected for histopathologic evaluation. Data analysis includedANOVAprocedures and contingency tables.

Results

Six of 8 cantharidin‐intoxicated rats treated with mineral oil died; bradycardia and hypothermia developed in the animals of this group 0–8 hours after intoxication. Rats treated with mineral oil had higher urine cantharidin concentrations than rats receiving cantharidin alone or with smectite (P = .04). The most severe hypothermia (30.6°C ± 1.0) developed in rats administered mineral oil at 4–8 hours after intoxication, whereas those treated with charcoal (35.2°C ± 0.8) had mean body temperatures higher than all other treatment groups (P = .03). Survival times in the charcoal (P = .16) and smectite (P = .12) treatment groups were not statistically different from negative controls.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Mineral oil is often used in the treatment of equine cantharidin toxicosis. Our findings suggest that mineral oil increases cantharidin absorption, worsening morbidity and fatality in rats.
Does Baseline Prostate Volume Affect the Short‐Term Outcome of Tamsulosin?
Authors: MASUMORI Naoya , TSUKAMOTO Taiji , HORITA Hiroki , SUNAOSHI Ken‐ichi , TANAKA Yoshinori , TAKEYAMA Koh , SATO Eiji , MIYAO Noriomi
Published: September 2013

Objective

To investigate the short‐term efficacy of tamsulosin treatment for patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) suggestive of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) according to baseline prostate volume (PV).

Methods

Tamsulosin, 0.2 mg/day, was prospectively given to 112 patients aged 50 years or older who had International Prostate Symptom Scores (IPSS) ≥ 8. The short‐term efficacy was analyzed using the IPSS, quality of life (QOL) index, BPH problem index (BPI), maximum flow rate (Qmax) and postvoid residual urine volume (PVR) at 4 weeks and 3 months after treatment considering the estimated PV at baseline.

Results

Of the 112 patients, 81 and 31 had PV of < 35 and ≥ 35 mL, respectively. The IPSS was significantly improved in patients with PV of < 35 mL (17.8 ± 5.9 at baseline, 13.5 ± 7.0 at 4 weeks, 11.9 ± 6.1 at 3 months) and in those with PV of ≥ 35 mL (17.4 ± 6.7 at baseline, 13.1 ± 7.0 at 4 weeks, 13.4 ± 6.2 at 3 months). There was no significant difference in the changes of the IPSS between the groups in a combined analysis model (P = 0.559). In addition, the model revealed no significant differences in changes in the QOL index, BPI, Qmax and PVR.

Conclusion

The short‐term efficacy of tamsulosin is observed irrespective of baseline PV. Thus, α1‐blocker monotherapy should be considered for all patients with BPH/LUTS to rapidly relieve symptoms, although the long‐term outcome is not promising for patients with a large PV at baseline.
Fine‐grained material encased in microtracks of Stardust samples
Authors: Leroux Hugues , Jacob Damien
Published: September 2013

Dust from comet 81P/Wild 2 was captured at high speed in silica aerogel collectors during the Stardust mission. Studies of deceleration tracks in aerogel showed that a number of cometary particles were poorly cohesive and fragmented during impact. Fragments are now scattered along the walls of impact cavities. Here, we report a transmission electron microscope study of a piece of aerogel extracted from the wall of track 10. We focused on micron‐sized secondary tracks along which fragments of a fine‐grained material are disseminated. Two populations of fragments were identified. The first is made of polycrystalline silicate assemblages (olivine, pyroxene, and spinel) that appear to be chemically related to each other. The second corresponds to silica‐rich glassy clumps characteristic of a mixture of melted cometary material and aerogel. A significant number of fragments have been found with a composition close to chondritic CI for the major elements Fe‐Mg‐S at a submicron scale. These fragments have thus never been chemically differentiated by high‐temperature processes prior to the accretion on the comet, in contrast to terminal particles, which are dominated by larger, denser, and frequently monomineralic components.
Vestan lithologies mapped by the visual and infrared spectrometer on Dawn
Authors: Ammannito Eleonora , De Sanctis M. Cristina , Capaccioni Fabrizio , Teresa Capria M. , Carraro F. , Combe Jean‐Philippe , Fonte Sergio , Frigeri Alessandro , Joy Steven P. , Longobardo Andrea , Magni Gianfranco , Marchi Simone , McCord Thomas B. , McFadden Lucy A. , McSween Harry Y. , Palomba Ernesto , Pieters Carle M. , Polanskey Carol A. , Raymond Carol A. , Sunshine Jessica M. , Tosi Federico , Zambon Francesca , Russell Christopher T.
Published: September 2013

We present global lithological maps of the Vestan surface based on Dawn mission's Visible InfraRed (VIR) Spectrometer acquisitions with a spatial sampling of 200 m. The maps confirm the results obtained with the data set acquired by VIR with a spatial sampling of 700 m, that the reflectance spectra of Vesta's surface are dominated by pyroxene absorptions that can be interpreted within the context of the distribution of howardites, eucrites, and diogenites (HEDs). The maps also partially agree with the ground and Hubble Space Telescope observations: they confirm the background surface being an assemblage of howardite or polymict eucrite, as well as the location of a diogenitic‐rich spot; however, there is no evidence of extended olivine‐rich regions in the equatorial latitudes. Diogenite is revealed on the Rheasilvia basin floor, indicating that material of the lower crust/mantle was exposed. VIR also detected diogenites along the scarp of Matronalia Rupes, and the rims of Severina and a nearby, unnamed crater, and as ejecta of Antonia crater. The diogenite distribution is fully consistent with petrological constraints; although the mapped distribution does not provide unambiguous constraints, it favors the hypothesis of a magma ocean.
HAM‐2 and HAM‐3 are central for the assembly of the Neurospora STRIPAK complex at the nuclear envelope and regulate nuclear accumulation of the MAP kinase MAK‐1 in a MAK‐2‐dependent manner
Authors: Dettmann Anne , Heilig Yvonne , Ludwig Sarah , Schmitt Kerstin , Illgen Julia , Fleißner Andre , Valerius Oliver , Seiler Stephan
Published: September 2013

Intercellular communication and somatic cell fusion are important for fungal colony establishment, multicellular differentiation and have been associated with host colonization and virulence of pathogenic species. By a combination of genetic, biochemical and live cell imaging techniques, we characterized the Neurospora crassa STRIPAK complex that is essential for self‐signalling and consists of the six proteins HAM‐2/STRIP, HAM‐3/striatin, HAM‐4/SLMAP, MOB‐3/phocein, PPG‐1/PP2A‐C and PP2A‐A. We describe that the core STRIPAK components HAM‐2 and HAM‐3 are central for the assembly of the complex at the nuclear envelope, while the phosphatase PPG‐1 only transiently associates with this central subcomplex. Our data connect the STRIPAK complex with two MAP kinase pathways: (i) nuclear accumulation of the cell wall integrity MAP kinase MAK‐1 depends on the functional integrity of the STRIPAK complex at the nuclear envelope, and (ii) phosphorylation of MOB‐3 by the MAP kinase MAK‐2 impacts the nuclear accumulation of MAK‐1. In summary, these data support a model, in which MAK‐2‐dependent phosphorylation of MOB‐3 is part of a MAK‐1 import mechanism. Although self‐communication remained intact in the absence of nuclear MAK‐1 accumulation, supporting the presence of multiple mechanisms that co‐ordinate robust intercellular communication, proper fruiting body morphology was dependent on the MAK‐2‐phosphorylated N‐terminus of MOB‐3.
Migration timing and distance from shore of southbound eastern Pacific gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus) off Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico
Authors: De Jesús Melba , Heckel Gisela , Breiwick Jeffrey M. , Reilly Stephen B.
Published: September 2013

Eastern Pacific gray whales were monitored off Ensenada, Mexico, during the southbound migration. The objectives were to determine southbound migration timing and width of the migration corridor during three seasons (2003–2006). Migration timing was determined by fitting a generalized additive model to the shore counts for each season and estimating the 10, 50, and 90 percentiles of the fitted curves. To estimate abundance from shore‐based counts, a probability density function for the shore based distances was estimated by a product of a gamma distribution fit to the boat survey distance data for 2006/2007 and a half‐normal detection function using combined data of the three seasons. The parameters of the gamma distribution were corrected to account for less boat survey effort carried out 20–40 km than 0–20 km from shore. The onset of the migration off Ensenada was in late December/early January and ended around 13 February. The median date was 23–26 January for the first and third season and a week early for the second season. Boat surveys indicated a wide (20 km) migration corridor but most gray whales traveled within 9.9 km from shore. The estimated total number of whales during watch hours was 2,298 (95%CI= 1,536–4,447).
A comparative study of the dentate gyrus in hippocampal sclerosis in epilepsy and dementia
Authors: Bandopadhyay R. , Liu J. Y. W. , Sisodiya S. M. , Thom M.
Published: September 2013

Aims: Hippocampal sclerosis (HS) is long‐recognized in association with epilepsy (HSE) and more recently in the context of cognitive decline or dementia in the elderly (HSD), in some cases as a component of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and fronto‐temporal lobe dementia (FTLD). There is an increased risk of seizures in AD and spontaneous epileptiform discharges in the dentate gyrus of transgenic AD models; epilepsy can be associated with an age‐accelerated increase in AD‐type pathology and cognitive decline. The convergence between these disease processes could be related to hippocampal pathology. HSE typically shows re‐organization of both excitatory and inhibitory neuronal networks in the dentate gyrus, and is considered to be relevant to hippocampal excitability. We sought to compare the pathology of HSE and HSD, focusing on re‐organization in the dentate gyrus. Methods: In nine post mortem cases with HSE and bilateral damage, 18 HSD and 11 controls we carried out immunostaining for mossy fibres (dynorphin), and interneuronal networks (NPY, calbindin and calretinin) on sections from the mid‐hippocampal body. Fibre sprouting (FS) or loss of expression in the dentate gyrus was semi‐quantitatively graded from grade 0 (normal) to grade 3 (marked alteration). Results: Significantly more re‐organization was seen with all four markers in the HSE than HSD group (P < 0.01). Mild alterations were noted in HSD group with dynorphin (FS in 3 cases), calretinin (FS in 6 cases), NPY (FS in 11 cases) and calbindin (loss in 10 cases). In eight HSD cases, alteration was seen with more than one antibody but in no cases were the highest grades seen. We also noted NPY and, to a lesser extent, calretinin labelling of Hirano bodies in CA1 of AD cases and some older controls, but not in HSE. Conclusion: Reorganization of excitatory and inhibitory networks in the dentate gyrus is more typical of HSE. Subtle alterations in HSD may be a result of increased hippocampal excitability, including unrecognized seizure activity. An unexpected finding was the identification of NPY‐positive Hirano bodies in HSD but not HSE, which may be a consequence of the relative vulnerabilities of interneurons in these conditions.
Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography is a valid technique for the assessment of renal microvascular perfusion dysfunction in diabetic Goto‐Kakizaki rats
Authors: Ma Fang , Yadav Ganga Prasad , Cang Yan‐qin , Dang Yuan‐yuan , Wang Chao‐qing , Liu Bo , Guo Le‐hang , Li Xin‐hua , Peng Ai
Published: September 2013

Aim

To evaluate the reliability of contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) for the detection of renal microvascular blood perfusion in a type 2 diabetic Goto‐Kakizaki (GK) rat model.

Methods

Male GK and Wistar rats at the age of 4, 12 and 20 weeks (n = 10, respectively) were used for the study. Real‐time and haemodynamic imaging of the renal cortex was performed using CEUS with SonoVue. Outage time‐intensity curves (TICs) were applied for the analysis of basic intensity, slope rates of the ascending (S1) and descending curves (S2), time to peak (TTP), half time of peak descending (HDT), peak intensity (PI), and total area under the curve (AUC). Immunohistochemical staining for endothelial cells (ECs) was performed using the CD34 monoclonal antibody for the quantification of microvessel density and distribution.

Results

Images of the renal cortex microvascular beds after injection of SonoVue in the rats were rapidly and clearly displayed, and it is easy to differentiate the enhanced and faded images of renal perfusion. The TICs of the GK rats were much wider than the controls; however, no significant changes in PI were found in all aged rats. Ultrasonographic quantitative analysis revealed a decrease in S1 and S2, and an increase in TTP, HDT and AUC in the 12‐ and 20‐week‐old GK rats compared with the controls (P < 0.05). Moreover, the 20‐week‐old GK rats had much lower glomerular density and smaller distribution area of CD34‐positive ECs, which was in parallel with more severe proteinuria, GBM thickening, glomerulosclerosis and interstitial vascular damages (P < 0.05). Interestingly, negative correlations between AUC and glomerular microvessel density or distribution were detected, respectively (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography is a valid technique for the real‐time and dynamic assessment of renal cortex microvascular perfusion and haemodynamic characterization in GK rats.
Tidal Volume and Minute Ventilation Parameters Derived from Pacemaker Impedance Measurements Can Predict Experimental Heart Failure Development
Authors: LEFKOV SHARON , DE VOIR CHRIS , MÜSSIG DIRK , TKEBUCHAVA TENGIZ , LIAN JIE , ORLOV MICHAEL V.
Published: September 2013

Background

Specific respiratory patterns and periodic breathing have been associated with heart failure. Less is known regarding changes in tidal volume (TV) and minute ventilation (MV) as a result of early heart failure (HF) decompensation.

Methods and Results

Twelve adult Yucatan minipigs were implanted with a biventricular pacemaker and a left ventricular pressure sensor. HF was induced using high‐rate pacing at 240 paces per minute for 2–4 weeks, followed by 2 weeks of recovery. Left ventricular pressure measurements and weekly echocardiograms verified the development of HF. The right and left ventricular intrathoracic impedance (RVITI and LVITI, respectively) signals were used to determine the respiratory parameters of rate, TV, and MV. Compared to baseline (BL), during HF, the TV dropped 68% for RVITI and 61% for LVITI (P < 0.0001 for both). Correspondingly, MV dropped 34% for RVITI and 27% for LVITI (P < 0.0001 for both). The daily medians of the respiratory rate (RR) and the longest breath interval (LBI) did not change significantly from BL to HF and recovery. However, circadian variation of the RR and the LBI became blunted during HF development. All derived respiratory parameters showed the reverse trend during the recovery period.

Conclusion

TV and MV change independently from the RR in early HF decompensation. Tracking the changes of TV and MV with an implantable device may provide an additional method for early HF detection and assessment of the response to therapy.
Development of the scale of psychosocial factors in food allergy (SPS‐FA)
Authors: Cortes Aaron , Castillo Angela , Sciaraffia Alicia
Published: September 2013

Background

Food allergy (FA) is a growing condition among children and it's psychological impact over the patients and their caregivers is well known, establishing a vicious circle that perpetuates stress levels. However, psychosocial factors are not commonly included in allergy treatments. Based on the lack of evidence of records about a scale that indicates the level of interaction between biopsychosocial factors in the patient–caregivers dyad for FA, the present research aims to develop a scale with these characteristics as a helpful tool to achieve a more comprehensive system of health care.

Methods

A preliminary 28‐item scale was generated (sample N = 99). The scale was adjusted in contents and language after expert opinion and application on patients. A factor analysis was carried out selecting the items from the final scale.

Results

The final 9‐item scale included three areas: impact on quality of life, social impact and conflicts. The scale had a good internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.870) and correlated significantly with anxiety and depression measurements. Moreover, it was able to discriminate between study groups (members and non‐members of peer support groups) and proved construct validity.

Conclusions

The SPS‐FA is the first scale for the assessment of the interaction of biopsychosocial factors on FA that includes the patient–caregiver dyad. Its application might be relevant for future research, and it can provide the clinician and the researcher with a solid tool to define which type of psychosocial support is required to provide a more comprehensive care in FA.