bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between expression of α1‐adrenoceptor subtype mRNA and severity of lower urinary tract symptoms or bladder outlet obstruction in benign prostatic hyperplasia patients
Authors: Kojima Yoshiyuki , Sasaki Shoichi , Imura Makoto , Kubota Yasue , Hayashi Yutaro , Kohri Kenjiro
Published: August 2010

Study Type – Aetiology (case control) Level of Evidence 3b

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Although there are several reports about distribution and localization of α1‐adrenoceptor (AR) subtypes in the prostate, there has been no report to demonstrate the correlation with the clinical findings of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether the direct correlation between the expression of α1‐adrenoceptor (AR) subtype mRNA and severity of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) or bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) in the prostate exists in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty‐eight patients with LUTS and BOO secondary to BPH were enrolled. Four prostate needle biopsy specimens were obtained from the transition zone to examine the expression level of α1‐AR subtypes by Taqman reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction.

The correlation and regression between each expression level of α1‐AR subtype and clinical findings such as patient age, prostate volume, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QOL) index, maximum flow rate in uroflowmetry (Qmax) and post‐void residual urine volume (PVR) were assessed by stepwise multiple regression analysis.

The correlation and regression between this expression level and individual symptoms of IPSS were assessed by Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multiple regression analyses.

RESULTS

Stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that the expression levels of α1a‐AR, α1b‐AR, α1d‐AR and total α1‐AR mRNA showed a significant regression with patient age, but not with prostate volume, IPSS, QOL index, Qmax and PVR.

Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multiple regression analyses demonstrated no correlation and regression between each α1‐AR subtype mRNA expression level and individual symptoms of IPSS.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no direct correlation between the expression of α1‐AR subtype mRNA in the prostate and severity of LUTS or BOO in BPH patients, although the significant regression of this expression with patient age existed.

LUTS and BOO may be associated with multiple factors and several other conditions may contribute to LUTS and BOO.
Chloroplast genome sequences from total DNA for plant identification
Authors: Nock Catherine J. , Waters Daniel L.E. , Edwards Mark A. , Bowen Stirling G. , Rice Nicole , Cordeiro Giovanni M. , Henry Robert J
Published: August 2010

Chloroplast DNA sequence data are a versatile tool for plant identification or barcoding and establishing genetic relationships among plant species. Different chloroplast loci have been utilized for use at close and distant evolutionary distances in plants, and no single locus has been identified that can distinguish between all plant species. Advances in DNA sequencing technology are providing new cost‐effective options for genome comparisons on a much larger scale. Universal PCR amplification of chloroplast sequences or isolation of pure chloroplast fractions, however, are non‐trivial. We now propose the analysis of chloroplast genome sequences from massively parallel sequencing (MPS) of total DNA as a simple and cost‐effective option for plant barcoding, and analysis of plant relationships to guide gene discovery for biotechnology. We present chloroplast genome sequences of five grass species derived from MPS of total DNA. These data accurately established the phylogenetic relationships between the species, correcting an apparent error in the published rice sequence. The chloroplast genome may be the elusive single‐locus DNA barcode for plants.
A review of web‐based weight loss interventions in adults
Authors: Arem H. , Irwin M.
Published: August 2010

Unprecedented obesity rates are changing the burden of disease worldwide and obesity‐related health complications are increasing healthcare costs. In response, researchers, clinicians and public health practitioners are seeking new and effective tools such as the Internet to effect weight loss. This review highlights peer‐reviewed literature on randomized controlled trials that examine Internet‐delivered weight loss and maintenance programmes. The scope of this review is broader than previous reviews, including more males and non‐Caucasian participants. The reviewed studies show intervention results ranging from no weight loss to an average loss of 7.6 kg. It is difficult to draw a definitive conclusion on the potential impact of Internet‐based weight loss as study methods are highly variable between papers, low adherence was recorded and not all studies include a control group. As the demand for low‐cost, efficacious interventions that yield statistically significant and/or clinically relevant results grows, more rigorous, population‐specific research is needed to determine if Internet‐delivered interventions may slow or reverse with weight gain and obesity and the associated health consequences.
Do nutrient–gut–microbiota interactions play a role in human obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes?
Authors: Diamant M. , Blaak E. E. , de Vos W. M.
Published: August 2010

The current obesity and type 2 diabetes pandemics have causes beyond changes in eating and exercise habits against a susceptible genetic background. Gut bacteria seem to additionally contribute to the differences in body weight, fat distribution, insulin sensitivity and glucose‐ and lipid‐metabolism. Data, mostly derived from preclinical studies, suggest that gut microbiota play an important role in conditions such as obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease. Regulation of energy uptake from the gut, by digesting otherwise indigestible common polysaccharides in our diet, production or activation of signalling molecules involved in host metabolism, modification of gut permeability, the release of gut hormones and inflammation, are among the mechanisms by which gut microbiota may influence the host cardiometabolic phenotype. Recent evidence suggests that quantitative and qualitative differences in gut microbiota exist between lean and obese, and between diabetic and non‐diabetic individuals. Modification of the gut microbiota composition and/or its biochemical capacity by specific dietary or pharmacological interventions may favourably affect host metabolism. Large‐scale intervention trials, investigating the potential benefit of prebiotics and probiotics in improving cardiometabolic health in high‐risk populations, are eagerly awaited.
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension in the USA: the role of obesity in establishing prevalence and healthcare costs
Authors: Friesner D. , Rosenman R. , Lobb B. M. , Tanne E.
Published: August 2010

This study documents for the first time the extraordinary costs to take care of patients with a chronic, non‐fatal, relatively rare disorder who have been incorrectly thought to have an insignificant and self‐limiting illness. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) occurs worldwide and in all racial groups and is found predominantly in obese women (∼90%) of childbearing age. Although the incidence of IIH is increasing as a result of the rapid increase in obesity, the disorder in general receives little recognition, and no recognition of the extensive burden of healthcare costs placed on patients, their families and society. We established for the first time both the prevalence of IIH in the USA and the direct and indirect costs of IIH using a prevalence‐based model. IIH patients had an exceptionally high hospital admission rate of 38% (in 2007), a partial reflection of unsatisfactory treatment options. The total hospital costs per IIH admission in 2007 were four times greater than for a population‐based per person admission. Total economic costs of IIH patients exceeded $444 million. Programmes designed to reduce obesity prior to and after diagnosis and better therapeutics will have a tremendous economic impact.
Ambiguous figures and binding: EEG frequency modulations during multistable perception
Authors: Ehm Werner , Bach Michael , Kornmeier Jürgen
Published: August 2010

Ambiguous figures induce sudden transitions between rivaling percepts. We investigated electroencephalogram frequency modulations of accompanying change‐related de‐ and rebinding processes. Presenting the stimuli discontinously, we synchronized perceptual reversals with stimulus onset, which served as a time reference for averaging. The resultant gain in temporal resolution revealed a sequence of time–frequency correlates of the reversal process. Most conspicuous was a transient right‐hemispheric gamma modulation preceding endogenous reversals by at least 200 ms. No such modulation occurred with exogenously induced reversals of unambiguous stimulus variants. Post‐onset components were delayed for ambiguous compared to unambiguous stimuli. The time course of oscillatory activity differed in several respects from predictions based on binding‐related hypotheses. The gamma modulation preceding endogenous reversals may indicate an unstable brain state, ready to switch.
A QUESTION OF JUSTICE: ASSESSING NURSE MIGRATION FROM A PHILOSOPHICAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: KAELIN LUKAS
Published: August 2010

The intensified nurse migration leads to severe problems for the health care systems in many developing countries. Using the Philippines as an example, this paper will address the question of global nurse migration from a philosophical perspective. John Rawls' liberal and Michael Walzer's communitarian theory of justice will be examined in view of the ethical problem of nurse migration. In line with Rawls' A Theory of Justice, nurse migration undermines the ability of the people in developing countries to make use of their basic rights and liberties. Walzer's communitarian assessment of nurse migration, on the other hand, will stress the shared ‘thin’ morality, as well as the shared history between the ‘donating’ and receiving countries. This paper argues that the commonality of a shared history and common values implies the moral obligation to ensure a fairer distribution of nurses.
Determinants of the reduction in B‐type natriuretic peptide after mitral valve replacement in patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis
Authors: Leszek Przemyslaw , Klisiewicz Anna , Janas Jadwiga , Różański Jacek , Rywik Tomasz , Piotrowski Walerian , Korewicki Jerzy
Published: August 2010

Background:  Plasma B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels are closely related to symptoms in left ventricle (LV) systolic heart failure, although marked regarding heterogeneity levels among subjects are reported.

Aims:  To assess the influence of right ventricle on plasma BNP in the patients with different grades of its overload secondary to severe mitral valve stenosis (MVS).

Methods:  Plasma BNP was evaluated in MVS patients (n = 27) before valve replacement and during follow‐up (FUV) 401 ± 42 days after operation.

Results:  Initial examination showed severe MVS (0.9 ± 0.2 cm2), left atrial enlargement (LAI 30 ± 4.5 mm m−2), right ventricle diastolic dilatation (RVDI 16 ± 3.6 mm m−2), normal LV size/function and elevated BNP levels (166 ± 137 pg ml−1). FUV examination revealed a significant reduction in LAI (27 ± 2.2 mm m−2), RVDI (14 ± 1.6 mm m−2) and BNP levels (80 ± 35 pg ml−1). The regression analysis of the initial parameters found RVDI to be the strongest predictor (R2 = 0.61; P<0.0001) for BNP level, whereas RVDI reduction was the strongest factor for BNP decrease (R2 = 0.65; P<0.0001) during FUV.

Conclusions:  Right ventricle should be taken into account as a potential important source of plasma BNP owing to the fact that LV size and function are well preserved in MVS patients. RVDI determines BNP plasma levels whereas after MVS removal, the RVDI reduction predicts BNP level decrease.
Performance Analysis of the Mesh‐Free Random Grid Method for Full‐Field Synthetic Strain Measurements
Authors: Iliopoulos A. P. , Michopoulos J. G. , Andrianopoulos N. P.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  In responding to the needs of the material characterization community, the recently developed mesh‐free random grid method (MFRGM) has been exhibiting very promising characteristics of accuracy, adaptability, implementation flexibility and efficiency. To address the design specification of the method according to an intended application, we are presenting a sensitivity analysis that aids into determining the effects of the experimental and computational parameters characterizing the MFRGM in terms of its performance. The performance characteristics of the MFRGM are mainly its accuracy, sensitivity, smoothing properties and efficiency. In this paper, we are presenting a classification of a set of parameters associated with the characteristics of the experimental set‐up and the random grid applied on the specimen under measurement. The applied sensitivity analysis is based on synthetic images produced from analytic solutions of specific isotropic and orthotropic elasticity boundary value problems. This analysis establishes the trends in the performance characteristics of the MFRGM that will enable the selection of the user controlled variables for a desired performance specification.
Pharmacokinetic analysis of pralidoxime after its intramuscular injection alone or in combination with atropine‐avizafone in healthy volunteers
Authors: Abbara C , Rousseau JM , Lelièvre B , Turcant A , Lallement G , Ferec S , Bardot I , Diquet B
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Treatment of organophosphate poisoning with pralidoxime needs to be improved. Here we have studied the pharmacokinetics of pralidoxime after its intramuscular injection alone or in combination with avizafone and atropine using an auto‐injector device.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The study was conducted in an open, randomized, single‐dose, two‐way, cross‐over design. At each period, each subject received either intramuscular injections of pralidoxime (700 mg), or two injections of the combination: pralidoxime (350 mg), atropine (2 mg), avizafone (20 mg). Pralidoxime concentrations were quantified using a validated LC/MS‐MS method. Two approaches were used to analyse these data: (i) a non‐compartmental approach; and (ii) a compartmental modelling approach.

KEY RESULTS The injection of pralidoxime combination with atropine and avizafone provided a higher pralidoxime maximal concentration than that obtained after the injection of pralidoxime alone (out of bioequivalence range), while pralidoxime AUC values were equivalent. Pralidoxime concentrations reached their maximal value earlier after the injection of the combination. According to Akaike and to goodness of fit criteria, the best model describing the pharmacokinetics of pralidoxime was a two‐compartment with a zero‐order absorption model. When avizafone and atropine were injected with pralidoxime, the best model describing pralidoxime pharmacokinetics becomes a two‐compartment with a first‐order absorption model.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The two approaches, non‐compartmental and compartmental, showed that the administration of avizafone and atropine with pralidoxime results in a faster absorption into the general circulation and higher maximal concentrations, compared with the administration of pralidoxime alone.
Blockade of tachykinin NK3receptor reverses hypertension through a dopaminergic mechanism in the ventral tegmental area of spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: De Brito Gariepy Helaine , Couture Réjean
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSEIntracerebroventricularly injected tachykinin NK3receptor (R) antagonists normalize mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). This study was pursued to define the role played by NK3R located on dopamine neurones of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in the regulation of MAP in SHR.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHSHR (16 weeks) were implanted permanently with i.c.v. and/or VTA guide cannulae. Experiments were conducted 24 h after catheterization of the abdominal aorta to measure MAP and heart rate (HR) in freely behaving rats. Cardiovascular responses to i.c.v. or VTA‐injected NK3R agonist (senktide) and antagonists (SB222200 and R‐820) were measured before and after systemic administration of selective antagonists for D1R (SCH23390), D2R (raclopride) or non‐selective D2R (haloperidol), and after destruction of the VTA with ibotenic acid.

KEY RESULTSI.c.v. or VTA‐injected SB222200 and R‐820 (500 pmol) evoked anti‐hypertension, which was blocked by raclopride. Senktide (10, 25, 65 and 100 pmol) elicited greater increases of MAP and HR when injected in the VTA, and the cardiovascular response was blocked by R‐820, SCH23390 and haloperidol. VTA‐injected SB222200 prevented the pressor response to i.c.v. senktide, and vice versa, i.c.v. senktide prevented the anti‐hypertension to VTA SB222200. Destruction of the VTA prevented the pressor response to i.c.v. senktide and the anti‐hypertension to i.c.v. R‐820.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSThe NK3R in the VTA is implicated in the maintenance of hypertension by increasing midbrain dopaminergic transmission in SHR. Hence, this receptor may represent a therapeutic target in the treatment of hypertension.
cAMP inhibits modulation of airway smooth muscle phenotype via the exchange protein activated by cAMP (Epac) and protein kinase A
Authors: Roscioni Sara S , Dekkers Bart GJ , Prins Alwin G , Menzen Mark H , Meurs Herman , Schmidt Martina , Maarsingh Harm
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Changes in airway smooth muscle (ASM) phenotype may contribute to the pathogenesis of airway disease. Platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) switches ASM from a contractile to a proliferative, hypo‐contractile phenotype, a process requiring activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) and p70S6 Kinase (p70S6K). The effects of cAMP‐elevating agents on these processes is unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of cAMP elevation by prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and the activation of the cAMP effectors, protein kinase A (PKA) and exchange protein activated by cAMP (Epac) on PDGF‐induced phenotype switching in bovine tracheal smooth muscle (BTSM).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Effects of long‐term treatment with the PGE2 analogue 16,16‐dimethyl‐PGE2, the selective Epac activator, 8‐pCPT‐2′‐O‐Me‐cAMP and the selective PKA activator, 6‐Bnz‐cAMP were assessed on the induction of a hypo‐contractile, proliferative BTSM phenotype and on activation of ERK and p70S6K, both induced by PDGF.

KEY RESULTS Treatment with 16,16‐dimethyl‐PGE2 inhibited PDGF‐induced proliferation of BTSM cells and maintained BTSM strip contractility and contractile protein expression in the presence of PDGF. Activation of both Epac and PKA similarly prevented PDGF‐induced phenotype switching and PDGF‐induced activation of ERK. Interestingly, only PKA activation resulted in inhibition of PDGF‐induced phosphorylation of p70S6K.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our data indicate for the first time that both Epac and PKA regulated switching of ASM phenotype via differential inhibition of ERK and p70S6K pathways. These findings suggest that cAMP elevation may be beneficial in the treatment of long‐term changes in airway disease.
Evidence for CGRP re‐uptake in rat dura mater encephali
Authors: Gupta Saurabh , Amrutkar Dipak Vasantrao , Mataji Aydin , Salmasi Hassan , Hay‐Schmidt Anders , Sheykhzade Majid , Messlinger Karl , Olesen Jes , Jansen‐Olesen Inger
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) is widely distributed in the trigeminovascular system and released from sensory fibres of the cranial dura mater upon noxious stimulation. Such release may be a mechanism underlying migraine headache. Based on data from guinea pig basilar artery preparations, we have here studied CGRP release and uptake in an organ preparation of the hemisected rat skull.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH CGRP release from the cranial dura was quantified by a commercial enzyme‐linked immunoassay. CGRP was depleted using repetitive challenges of capsaicin. After incubating the tissue with CGRP for 20 min and extensive washing, another capsaicin challenge was performed. Immunohistochemistry was used to visualize CGRP immunofluorescence in dural nerve fibres.

KEY RESULTS Capsaicin‐induced CGRP release was attenuated by the transient receptor potential vanilloid receptor type I antagonist capsazepine or by Ca2+‐free solutions. After the CGRP‐depleted preparation had been exposed to exogenous CGRP, capsaicin‐induced CGRP release was increased compared to the challenge just prior to incubation. CGRP uptake was not influenced by Ca2+‐free solutions. Olcegepant and CGRP8–37 (CGRP receptor antagonists) did not affect uptake of CGRP. However, a monoclonal CGRP‐binding antibody decreased CGRP uptake significantly. Release of CGRP after incubation was attenuated by Ca2+‐free solutions and by capsazepine. Immunohistochemical assays indicated a weak trend towards CGRP uptake in rat dura mater.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS We have presented evidence for CGRP uptake in nerves and its re‐release in rat dura mater. This may have implications for the pathophysiology and treatment of migraine.
Effect of cyclooxygenase inhibitors in a xenograft model of canine mammary tumours
Authors: Sonzogni‐Desautels K. , Knapp D. W. , Sartin E. , Doré M.
Published: August 2010

Inhibition of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) represents a possible avenue for the prevention and/or treatment of some cancers. Our goal was to compare the effect of a selective inhibitor of COX‐2, deracoxib, and a COX‐1 and ‐2 inhibitor, piroxicam, on the growth of canine mammary tumours in a murine model. CMT‐9 was used to induce xenografts in nude mice. Mice were treated with piroxicam (0.6 mg kg−1), deracoxib (6 mg kg−1) or a control solution. Tumour volumes between 0 and 24 days post‐treatment showed no significant difference between all groups. A second series of experiments was performed with a higher dose of piroxicam (0.9 mg kg−1). Tumour volumes between 14 and 21 days post‐treatment were significantly smaller in piroxicam‐treated mice compared with controls. These results demonstrate that COX inhibition reduced the growth of canine mammary cancer xenografts in mice, suggesting that COX inhibitors could have a positive effect in dogs.
Extending the applicability of the Raman carbonaceous‐material geothermometer using data from contact metamorphic rocks
Authors: AOYA M. , KOUKETSU Y. , ENDO S. , SHIMIZU H. , MIZUKAMI T. , NAKAMURA D. , WALLIS S.
Published: August 2010

The degree of graphitization of carbonaceous material (CM) has been widely used as an indicator of metamorphic grade. Previous work has demonstrated that peak metamorphic temperature (T) of regional metamorphic rocks can be estimated by an area ratio (R2) of peaks recognized in Raman spectra of CM. The applicability of this method to low‐pressure (<3 kbar) contact metamorphism was tested using Raman spectroscopic analyses of samples from two contact‐metamorphic aureoles in Japan (Daimonji and Kasuga areas). A suitable measurement procedure allows the dependence of the geothermometer on sample type (thin section, chip) and incident angle of laser beam relative to the c‐axes of CM to be tested. Two important general results are: (i) in addition to standard thin sections, chips are also suitable for spectral analysis; and (ii) the incident angle of the laser beam does not significantly affect the temperature estimation, i.e. spectral measurements for the geothermometer can be carried out irrespective of the crystallographic orientation. A laser wavelength of 532 nm was used in this study compared with 514.5 nm in an independent previous study. A comparison shows that the use of a 532‐nm laser results in a slightly, but systematically larger R2 ratio than that of a 514.5‐nm laser. Taking this effect into account, our results show that there is a slight but distinct difference between the R2–T correlations shown by contact and regional metamorphic rocks: the former are slightly better‐crystallized (have slightly lower R2 values) than the latter at the same temperature. This difference is interpreted as due to the degree of associated deformation. Despite the slight difference, the results of this study coincide within the estimated errors of ±50 °C with those of the previously proposed Raman CM geothermometer, thus demonstrating the applicability of this method to contact metamorphism. To facilitate more precise temperature estimates in regions of contact metamorphism, a new calibration for analyses using a 532‐nm laser is derived. Another important observation is that the R2 ratio of metamorphosed CM in pelitic and psammitic rocks is highly heterogeneous with respect to a single sample. To obtain a reliable temperature estimate, the average R2 value must be determined by using a substantial number of measurements (usually N > 50) that adequately reflects the range of sample heterogeneity. Using this procedure (with 532‐nm laser) and adapting our new calibration, the errors of the Raman CM geothermometer for contact metamorphic rocks decrease to ∼±30 °C.
Epicardial Cardiac Rhythm Devices for Dialysis Patients: Minimizing the Risk of Infection and Preserving Central Veins
Authors: Asif Arif , Carrillo Roger , Garisto Juan‐Domingo , Lopera Gustavo , Ladino Marco , Barakat Urwa , Eid Nadia , Salman Loay
Published: August 2010

Transvenous leads of cardiac rhythm devices (CRDs) are known to cause central stenosis and are vulnerable to contamination during hemodialysis access‐related bacteremia. In this retrospective study, nine consecutive chronic hemodialysis patients with transvenous CRD infection due to dialysis access‐related bacteremia and recurrent central stenosis are presented. Four patients with tunneled hemodialysis catheters (TDCs) and three with arteriovenous grafts experienced access‐related bacteremia that spread to the transvenous CRD. Two patients required repeated angioplasty procedures (less than 3 months apart) for central venous stenosis. Transvenous CRD was removed and replaced with an epicardial system in all. One patient with TDC switched to peritoneal dialysis and did not experience infection of the epicardial system despite two episodes of peritonitis. The remaining TDC (n = 3) and graft patients (n = 3) received a new TDC after the resolution of bacteremia. While all six experienced on average 1.5 episodes of catheter‐related bacteremia (average follow‐up = 14.5 months), none developed infection of the epicardial system. The patients with central stenosis have required only one angioplasty each for the past 8 and 6 months. To the best of our knowledge this is the first study to suggest that an epicardial approach might be a preferred method over transvenous leads for chronic hemodialysis patients.
Variation in Soil Temperature, Moisture, and Plant Growth with the Addition of Downed Woody Material on Lakeshore Restoration Sites
Authors: Haskell Daniel E. , Flaspohler David J. , Webster Christopher R. , Meyer Michael W.
Published: August 2010

Downed woody material (DWM) is an important ecosystem component that performs many critical functions including influencing soil temperature and moisture, which affects plant growth and survival. Residential development along lakeshores has increased dramatically in recent decades in the northern Great Lakes region. Such development often leads to reductions in terrestrial and aquatic woody material. Although lakeshore restoration projects have occurred in the past few years in the region, there has been little effort to evaluate success. In 2007, a collaborative lakeshore restoration research project began on two lakes in Vilas County, Wisconsin. We investigated the benefits of the addition of DWM as part of these restoration projects. We randomly assigned three coverage treatments (0, 25, and 50%) of DWM on 3 × 3–m experimental plots (n= 10 per treatment) and monitored soil temperature and volumetric soil water content at a depth of 10 cm. All plots were planted with two native shrub species and five native understory herbaceous species. Mean maximum soil temperature, mean difference in daily high and low soil temperature, and percent change in soil moisture content were significantly lower in the 25 and 50% DWM plots. Plant canopy volume growth for snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus) and Barren strawberry (Waldstenia fragaroides) was significantly greater in the 25 and 50% DWM plots. We conclude that the addition of DWM had a significant positive effect on regulating soil temperature extremes, soil moisture, and plant volume growth for two species of native plants used for restoration projects.
16. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Authors: van Eijs Frank , Stanton‐Hicks Michael , Van Zundert Jan , Faber Catharina G. , Lubenow Timothy R. , Mekhail Nagy , van Kleef Maarten , Huygen Frank
Published: August 2010

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), formerly known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy is a pain syndrome with an unclear pathophysiology and unpredictable clinical course. The disease is often therapy resistant, the natural course not always favorable. The diagnosis of CRPS is based on signs and symptoms derived from medical history and physical examination. Pharmacological pain management and physical rehabilitation of limb function are the main pillars of therapy and should be started as early as possible. If, however, there is no improvement of limb function and persistent severe pain, interventional pain management techniques may be considered.

Intravenous regional blocks with guanethidine did not prove superior to placebo but frequent side effects occurred.Therefore this technique receives a negative recommendation (2 A–). Sympathetic block is the interventional treatment of first choice and has a 2 B+ rating. Ganglion stellatum (stellate ganglion) block with repeated local anesthetic injections or by radiofrequency denervation after positive diagnostic block is documented in prospective and retrospective trials in patients suffering from upper limb CRPS. Lumbar sympathetic blocks can be performed with repeated local anesthetic injections. For a more prolonged lumbar sympathetic block radiofrequency treatment is preferred over phenol neurolysis because effects are comparable whereas the risk for side effects is lower (2 B+). For patients suffering from CRPS refractory to conventional treatment and sympathetic blocks, plexus brachialis block or continuous epidural infusion analgesia coupled with exercise therapy may be tried (2 C+). Spinal cord stimulation is recommended if other treatments fail to improve pain and dysfunction (2 B+). Alternatively peripheral nerve stimulation can be considered, preferentially in study conditions (2 C+).
Prevalence of Exposure to Potential CYP450 Pharmacokinetic Drug–Drug Interactions among Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain Taking Opioids
Authors: Pergolizzi, Jr. Joseph V. , Labhsetwar Sumedha A. , Puenpatom R. Amy , Joo Seongjung , Ben‐Joseph Rami H. , Summers Kent H.
Published: August 2010

Drug–drug interactions (DDIs) have been defined as two or more drugs interacting in such a way that the effectiveness and/or toxicity of one or all drugs are changed. Patients taking more than one drug metabolized through the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzyme system, including some, but not all, opioids experience a drug–drug exposure (DDE), which may result in a potentially dangerous DDI. Using a retrospective analysis of a large commercial claims database and a Medicare database, we evaluated DDEs that have the potential to cause DDIs among chronic low back pain (cLBP) patients on long‐term opioid analgesia, which metabolizes through the CYP450 enzyme system, concomitant with other CYP450‐metabolized drug(s). The overall prevalence of DDEs among cLBP patients was 27%. Women had a higher prevalence of DDEs (30.6% vs. 22% for men). Patients aged 45 to 55 and 56 to 64 years had the highest prevalence of DDEs (30.4% and 29.8%, respectively), followed by patients 34 to 45 years (27.9%). For patients > 65 years, the prevalence of DDEs was 23.1%. In general, the prevalence of DDEs was fairly consistent across age ranges in this population. This study suggests that DDEs are common in the cLBP population. When selecting an opioid to treat cLBP, physicians should consider the potential for exposure of these patients to drugs that might unfavorably interact and, for that reason, the use of opioids that do not rely on the CYP450 system as their primary means of metabolism might be worthy of consideration.
Comparison of platelet transfusion as fresh whole blood versus apheresis platelets for massively transfused combat trauma patients (CME)
Authors: Perkins Jeremy G. , Cap Andrew P. , Spinella Philip C. , Shorr Andrew F. , Beekley Alec C. , Grathwohl Kurt W. , Rentas Francisco J. , Wade Charles E. , Holcomb John B. ,   the 31st Combat Support Hospital Research Group
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND: At major combat hospitals, the military is able to provide blood products to include apheresis platelets (aPLT), but also has extensive experience using fresh whole blood (FWB). In massively transfused trauma patients, we compared outcomes of patients receiving FWB to those receiving aPLT.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: This study was a retrospective review of casualties at the military hospital in Baghdad, Iraq, between January 2004 and December 2006. Patients requiring massive transfusion (≥10 units in 24 hr) were divided into two groups: those receiving FWB (n = 85) or aPLT (n = 284) during their resuscitation. Admission characteristics, resuscitation, and survival were compared between groups. Multivariate regression analyses were performed comparing survival of patients at 24 hours and at 30 days. Secondary outcomes including adverse events and causes of death were analyzed.

RESULTS: Unadjusted survival between groups receiving aPLT and FWB was similar at 24 hours (84% vs. 81%, respectively; p = 0.52) and at 30 days (60% versus 57%, respectively; p = 0.72). Multivariate regression failed to identify differences in survival between patients receiving PLT transfusions either as FWB or as aPLT at 24 hours or at 30 days.

CONCLUSIONS: Survival for massively transfused trauma patients receiving FWB appears to be similar to patients resuscitated with aPLT. Prospective trials will be necessary before consideration of FWB in the routine management of civilian trauma. However, in austere environments where standard blood products are unavailable, FWB is a feasible alternative.
Pooled peripheral blood mononuclear cells provide an optimized cellular substrate for human immunodeficiency virus Type 1 isolation during acute infection
Authors: Lai‐Hipp Christopher , Goldberg Tiffany , Scott Edward , Ziman Alyssa , Vyas Girish
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND: Cellular substrate (CS) composed of phytohemagglutinin (PHA)‐stimulated PBMNCs is required for isolating primary human immunodeficiency virus Type 1 from plasma (PHIV) during early acute infection. The transmitted founder PHIV is neutralization‐sensitive and uses chemokine‐receptor 5 to infect CD4‐positive PBMNCs. Therefore, PHIV cocultured with optimized CS would enable efficient virologic diagnosis, vaccine development, and tests for broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAb).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Fifteen leukapheresis donations were used to isolate CD4‐enriched PBMNCs. Individual or three or four donors' pooled cells were stimulated with PHA, and both CSs were evaluated in parallel cocultures using five different PHIV isolates from nucleic acid testing–positive anti‐HIV–negative donations. Feasibility of coculturing PHIV with pooled PBMNC‐CS after dimethyl sulfoxide cryopreservation was investigated.

RESULTS: The cell‐free supernatants from individual CSs contained mean HIV‐p24 antigen varying between 20.35 and 85.54 ng/mL, while that from pooled CSs ranged between 57.54 and 88.10 ng/mL. Thus, PBMNCs pooled from multiple donors provide an optimal CS for coculturing PHIV. Cryopreserved PBMNC‐CS for PHIV cocultures is promising for systematic biosynthesis of PHIV.

CONCLUSIONS: Pooled CSs after cryopreservation were functional for PHIV replication and enable on‐demand diagnostic cocultures, preparing panels of PHIV stocks for bnAb testing and developing an envelope‐subunit vaccine candidate analogous to hepatitis B surface antigen, proven successful in preventing hepatitis B virus infection.
Retroperitoneal Hematoma in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Catheterization
Authors: FRANK JOHN J. , KAMALAKANNAN DESIKAN , KODENCHERY MIHAS , SAVOY‐MOORE RUTH T. , ROSMAN HOWARD
Published: August 2010

Objective:
 To retrospectively study demographic, clinical and hospital outcomes in patients who developed RPH following cardiac catheterization.

Methods:
 Charts of patients with RPH from cardiac catheterization, between January 1, 2000 and July 30, 2005 were reviewed and compared with two control groups (Grp‐I, 90 patients with local groin complications and Grp‐II, 98 patients with no bleeding complications).

Results:
 31 cases of RPH (0.13%) were identified with 84% females. Most common presentation was hypotension (87%) and hemoglobin drop (96%). CT scan was the diagnostic modality in 93% cases. The mean body surface area in RPH group (1.77 ± .23) was significantly lower than in control group I (1.93 ± .28) and II (1.98 ± .27). The use of larger sheath size was significantly higher in the RPH group (61.3%) than control groups I (26.7%) and II (21.4%). Left groin access was significantly more in RPH group (16.1%) and control group I (17.8) than control group II (0%). The use of antiplatelets and anticoagulants were significantly higher in the RPH group. 13% of patients with RPH were treated surgically. The average hospital stay was 8.6 days, 4.5 days and 3.5 days and mortality 12.9%, 3.3% and 1% in RPH group, control group I and II respectively.

Conclusion:
 Our study is the second largest series of RPH following cardiac catheterization and predicts female gender, large sheath size, left groin access and low body surface area as risk factors for RPH. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:569–574)
Editorial: Protein C and S Deficiency as a Risk Factor for Stent Thrombosis—When a Rare Disorder Can Predispose to Rare Events
Authors: ABDEL‐LATIF AHMED , MOLITERNO DAVID J.
Published: August 2010

(J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:565–568)
Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair by Interventional Cardiologists—A Community‐Based Experience
Authors: BASOOR ABHIJEET , PATEL KIRITKUMAR C. , COTANT JOHN F. , HALABI ABDUL R. , TODOROV MINA , CHUGHTAI HAROON , CHOKSI NISHIT , DIACZOK BENJAMIN , ZONIA SUSAN , DEGREGORIO MICHELE
Published: August 2010

Introduction:
 Endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a relatively recent technology. In comparison to the conventional open surgical treatment for AAA, endovascular AAA repair (EVAR) combines a less‐invasive approach with lower morbidity and mortality. There have been few studies regarding the performance of this procedure in a community‐based setting. We report our experience of EVAR performed primarily by interventional cardiologists in a community hospital.

Methods:
 In our community hospital setting, between September 2005 and November 2007, we included all patients who underwent EVAR by interventional cardiologists, with available on‐site vascular surgical support. Clinical and serial computed angiographic imaging outcomes were followed by a retrospective chart review. Data collection tools included demographic and clinical characteristics, anatomical aneurysm features, length of stay, peri‐ and postprocedural complications, and mortality.

Results:
 A total of 71 consecutive patients had EVAR attempted. The endovascular stent placement was successful in 67 (93%) patients. Thirty‐day mortality in this study was 1 of 71 (1.4%). All four procedural failures and the single periprocedural mortality occurred in women. Mean follow‐up was 12 months. There were a total of six mortalities and among these four were women (P ≤ 0.001); however, multivariate analysis revealed loss of significant difference in mortality (P = 0.16). Major complications following EVAR were noted in 10 of 71 (14%) patients.

Conclusion:
 EVAR can be successfully performed by experienced interventional cardiologists with vascular surgical support in a community‐based setting. In our experience, there is acceptable rate of complications and mortality in a carefully selected patient population. (J Interven Cardiol 2010;23:485–490)
Interventions to improve hemodialysis adherence: A systematic review of randomized‐controlled trials
Authors: MATTESON Michelle L. , RUSSELL Cynthia
Published: August 2010

Over 485,000 people in the United States have chronic kidney disease, a progressive kidney disease that may lead to hemodialysis. Hemodialysis involves a complex regimen of treatment, medication, fluid, and diet management. In 2005, over 312,000 patients were undergoing hemodialysis in the United States. Dialysis nonadherence rates range from 8.5% to 86%. Dialysis therapy treatment nonadherence, including treatment, medication, fluid, and diet nonadherence, significantly increases the risk of morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this paper is to systematically review randomized‐controlled trial intervention studies designed to increase treatment, medication, fluid, and diet adherence in adult hemodialysis patients. A search of Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) (1982 to May 2008), MEDLINE (1950 to May 2008), PsycINFO (1806 to May 2008), and all Evidence‐Based Medicine (EBM) Reviews (Cochran DSR, ACP Journal Club, DARE, and CCTR) was conducted to identify randomized‐controlled studies that tested the efficacy of interventions to improve adherence in adult hemodialysis patients. Eight randomized‐controlled trials met criteria for inclusion. Six of the 8 studies found statistically significant improvement in adherence with the intervention. Of these 6 intervention studies, all studies had a cognitive component, with 3 studies utilizing cognitive/behavioral intervention strategies. Based on this systematic review, interventions utilizing a cognitive or cognitive/behavioral component appear to show the most promise for future study.
Comparison of risk factors for contrast‐induced acute kidney injury between patients with and without diabetes
Authors: PAKFETRAT Maryam , NIKOO Mohamad Hosein , MALEKMAKAN Leila , TABANDE Mahmood , ROOZBEH Jamshid , GANBAR ALI Raiss Jalali , KHAJEHDEHI Parviz
Published: August 2010

Although it is well known that diabetics are at a higher risk of contrast‐induced acute kidney injury (CI‐AKI) than nondiabetic patients, the reason for this discrepancy is not well known. Thus, in this study, we compared the predisposing factors for CI‐AKI between patients with and without diabetes. We prospectively studied 290 consecutive in‐hospital patients including 88 diabetics undergoing coronary angiography or a percutaneous coronary intervention in Kowsar hospital, and we compared risk factors for CI‐AKI between diabetic and nondiabetic patients. CI‐AKI was defined as RIFLE criteria within 48 hours after contrast exposure. The incidence of CR‐AKI was significantly higher in diabetic patients compared with nondiabetics (P<0.05). The incidence of CI‐AKI was significantly higher in patients with diabetes and left‐ventricular ejection fraction ≤40%, hypercholesterolemia, serum creatinine ≥1.1 mg/dL, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <90 mL/min, Contrast volume ≥80 (mL), maximum safe contrast volume factor of 1.5, and dehydration, while in nondiabetics, a significantly higher incidence of CR‐AKI was observed in those with serum creatinine ≥1.1 mg/dL (P=0.02) and/or eGFR<60 mL/min (P=0.01). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed hyperchlosteremia to be the strongest predictor of AKI (P=0.01, B:14.5) in diabetics, followed by eGFR<90 (P=0.05, B:12.4) but, in nondiabetics, only eGFR<60 predicted the occurrence of CI‐AKI (P=0.04, B:2.3). It seems that the predisposing factors to CI‐AKI differ in diabetics and nondiabetics. In patients with diabetes, hypercholesterolemia is the strongest predictor of CI‐AKI, followed by eGFR and diabetics are at risk for CI‐AKI in the early stage of chronic kidney disease (stage 2), accounting for the higher incidence of CI‐AKI in them.
Effect of the Addition of Polyvinyl Alcohol on Electric and Dielectric Properties of Giant Dielectric Constant Material CaCu3Ti4O12
Authors: Yuan Wen‐Xiang
Published: August 2010

CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) ceramics were fabricated by a wet‐chemistry method. The effect of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) addition on electric and dielectric properties of CCTO ceramics was investigated. After adding PVA, the grain‐boundary resistivity and activation energy decreased, and nonlinear coefficient increased. All these results are relevant to their microstructures, more specifically, the secondary phase at grain boundaries. Though secondary phase was not observed from the X‐ray diffraction patterns, the scanning electron microscopy images indicated that this phase could be controlled by PVA.
Structural and Electrical Properties of Nb‐Doped Anatase TiO2 Nanowires by Electrospinning
Authors: Archana Panikar S. , Jose Rajan , Jin Tan Mein , Vijila Chellapan , Yusoff Mashitah M. , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: August 2010

One‐dimensional nanostructures of niobium‐doped anatase TiO2 (Nb:TiO2) up to 5 at.% Nb were synthesized by electrospinning a polymeric solution containing titanium and niobium precursors and subsequent annealing. Thus obtained fibers had diameter ∼150 nm. The undoped TiO2 fibers were constituted by larger single crystalline grains of size ∼50 nm, whereas the doped ones had decreased grain sizes (∼30 nm) under similar processing conditions. The Nb doping decreased the BET surface area of TiO2. A strain‐induced lattice contraction was observed in Nb:TiO2. The continuous nanofibers were shortened to nanowires (NW) of aspect ratio 10:1 by ultrasonically dispersing them in acetic acid, which were developed as films of thickness ∼8–13 μm onto conducting glass substrates. The TiO2 and Nb:TiO2 nanowire films were further sensitized by a dye; the amount of dye anchored was found to decrease with increase in the dopant concentration. The dye‐sensitized solar cells fabricated using the doped fibers, although with a nominally increased current density (JSC), have reduced efficiency due to lower fill factor and open circuit voltage (VOC). The electron diffusion coefficient (Dn) and mobility (μn) of the TiO2 and Nb:TiO2 NW in the presence of iodide/triiodide ions were an order of magnitude higher compared with the undoped samples.
Complex Impedance Study of Fine and Coarse Grain TiO2 Ceramics
Authors: Chao Sheng , Petrovsky Vladimir , Dogan Fatih
Published: August 2010

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) ceramics with various grain sizes were investigated by impedance spectroscopy techniques. Dielectric loss peak identified in coarse grain TiO2 was attributed to space charge polarization occurring at the grain boundaries. Electric modulus representation of the impedance data showed two types of relaxation processes in coarse grain TiO2, whereas only one type was observed in fine grain TiO2. Long‐range migration of oxygen vacancies was found to be the dominant conduction mechanism for fine grain TiO2, while electron hopping between localized states was attributed to dielectric relaxation in coarse grain TiO2.