bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An investigation of risk factors associated with tooth surface loss: a pilot study
Authors: Kosalram K. , Whittle T. , Byth K. , Klineberg I.
Published: May 2014

Few prospective studies have investigated risk factors associated with severe tooth surface loss. This case–control study assessed the possible association between medical history, diet, psychological profile and salivary pH and flow [Delongis 1982, Johansson 1993] with the incidence of severe tooth surface loss. A total of 80 subjects (40 cases and 40 age‐ and gender‐matched controls) aged 25–85 years were recruited. Cases were subjects with severe tooth surface loss, and controls with mild tooth surface loss. Conditional logistic regression analysis estimated the odds of severe tooth surface loss to be 15·4 times higher for those with cardiovascular disease and 16 times for gastrointestinal disturbances. Most domains of the psychological profile were associated with elevated risk of severe tooth surface loss, particularly the effects of finance and health. Recreational drug use and prescription medications were also associated with severe tooth surface loss. There was no association between salivary flow and severe tooth surface loss. Although not statistically significant, the pH was slightly lower in the severe tooth surface loss group.
Changes in Sexual Roles and Quality of Life for Gay Men after Prostate Cancer: Challenges for Sexual Health Providers
Authors: Hart Tae L. , Coon David W. , Kowalkowski Marc A. , Zhang Karen , Hersom Justin I. , Goltz Heather H. , Wittmann Daniela A. , Latini David M.
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Gay men with prostate cancer (GMPCa) may have differential health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and sexual health outcomes than heterosexual men with prostate cancer (PCa), but existing information is based on clinical experience and small studies.

Aims

Our goals were to: (i) describe HRQOL and examine changes in sexual functioning and bother; (ii) explore the psychosocial aspects of sexual health after PCa; and (iii) examine whether there were significant differences on HRQOL and sexual behavior between GMPCa and published norms.

Methods

A convenience sample of GMPCa completed validated disease-specific and general measures of HRQOL, ejaculatory function and bother, fear of cancer recurrence, and satisfaction with prostate cancer care. Measures of self-efficacy for PCa management, illness intrusiveness, and disclosure of sexual orientation were also completed. Where possible, scores were compared against published norms.

Main Outcome Measures

Main outcome measures were self-reported sexual functioning and bother on the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index.

Results

Compared with norms, GMPCa reported significantly worse functioning and more severe bother scores on urinary, bowel, hormonal symptom scales (Ps < 0.015–0.0001), worse mental health functioning (P < 0.0001), greater fear of cancer recurrence (P < 0.0001), and were more dissatisfied with their PCa medical care. However, GMPCa reported better sexual functioning scores (P < 0.002) compared with norms. Many of the observed differences met criteria for clinical significance. Physical functioning HRQOL and sexual bother scores were similar to that of published samples. GMPCa tended to be more “out” about their sexual orientation than other samples of gay men.

Conclusions

GMPCa reported substantial changes in sexual functioning after PCa treatment. They also reported significantly worse disease-specific and general HRQOL, fear of recurrence, and were less satisfied with their medical care than other published PCa samples. Sexual health providers must have an awareness of the unique functional and HRQOL differences between gay and heterosexual men with PCa.
Living on the edge of asthma: A grounded theory exploration
Authors: Shaw Michele R. , Oneal Gail
Published: May 2014

Purpose

Most asthma‐related emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations for asthma are preventable. Our purpose was to develop a grounded theory to guide interventions to reduce unnecessary hospitalizations and ED visits.

Design and Methods

Grounded theory inquiry guided interviews of 20 participants, including 13 parents and 7 children.

Results

Living on the edge of asthma was the emergent theory. Categories included: balancing, losing control, seeking control, and transforming.

Practice Implications

The theory provides the means for nurses to understand the dynamic process that families undergo in trying to prevent and then deal with and learn from an acute asthma attack requiring hospitalization or an ED visit.
Cognitive–emotional hyperarousal in the offspring of parents vulnerable to insomnia: a nuclear family study
Authors: Fernandez‐Mendoza Julio , Shaffer Michele L. , Olavarrieta‐Bernardino Sara , Vgontzas Alexandros N. , Calhoun Susan L. , Bixler Edward O. , Vela‐Bueno Antonio
Published: May 2014

Cognitive–emotional hyperarousal is believed to be a predisposing factor for insomnia; however, there is limited information on the association of familial vulnerability to insomnia and cognitive–emotional hyperarousal. The aim of this study was to estimate the heritability of stress‐related insomnia and examine whether parental vulnerability to stress‐related insomnia is associated with cognitive–emotional hyperarousal in their offspring. We studied a volunteer sample of 135 nuclear families comprised of 270 middle‐aged (51.5 ± 5.4 years) fathers and mothers and one of their biological offspring (n = 135, 20.2 ± 1.1 years). We measured vulnerability to stress‐related insomnia (i.e. Ford Insomnia Response to Stress Test: FIRST), perceived stress, depression and anxiety in all participants, and arousability, presleep cognitive and somatic arousal, coping and personality in the offspring. We found a heritability estimate of 29% for FIRST scores. High FIRST parents had three to seven times the odds of having offspring highly vulnerable to stress‐related insomnia. Offspring of high FIRST parents showed higher arousability, presleep cognitive arousal and emotion‐oriented coping. Furthermore, high FIRST mothers contributed to offspring's higher anxiety and lower task‐oriented coping, while high FIRST fathers contributed to offspring's higher presleep somatic arousal and conscientiousness. Vulnerability to stress‐related insomnia is significantly heritable. Parents vulnerable to stress‐related insomnia have offspring with cognitive–emotional hyperarousal who rely upon emotion‐oriented coping. These data give support to the notion that arousability and maladaptive coping are key factors in the aetiology of insomnia.
The natural history of cerebellar degeneration of Niemann‐Pick C mice monitored in vitro
Authors: Marschalek Nils , Albert Frank , Meske Volker , Ohm Thomas Georg
Published: May 2014

Aims

Niemann‐Pick type C (NPC) disease is a fatal hereditary lysosomal lipid storage disease caused by mutations in NPC1 or NPC2. It is still unknown how this disorder evokes clinical signs. Typically, patients develop severe cerebellar ataxia due to progressive Purkinje cell loss. Hitherto, in vitro studies did not allow monitoring the natural process of NPC‐associated Purkinje cell degeneration. Aim of this study was to evaluate whether organotypic slice cultures are usable to monitor the natural process of NPC‐associated Purkinje‐cell degeneration.

Methods

We used organotypic cerebellar slice cultures of a well‐established NPC mouse model to display the natural history of cerebellar degeneration in vitro and cultivated them for a prolonged time period of 6 weeks for the first time. Moreover we tested several therapeutic candidates and evaluated their effect on Purkinje‐cell survival.

Results

Our approach proves that it is possible to monitor and to prevent NPC‐related Purkinje cell death reliably in vitro. This is beneficial because in vivo Purkinje cell loss directly translates into clinical signs. Thus, therapeutically interesting compounds can be tested in vitro, not only to correct biochemical abnormalities, but also to show the likelihood of a compound to prevent ataxia. As to be expected from the results of previous animal experiments, 2‐hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin rescued Purkinje cells. We also discovered that 3‐methyladenine preserved Purkinje cell numbers by adjusting the autophagic flux in NPC slices.

Conclusion

We provide evidence that cerebellar slice cultures are a powerful in vitro tool to study NPC‐associated Purkinje cell death in an organotypic setting.
Impact of routine reporting of estimated glomerular filtration rate using the CKD‐EPI formula in a community population: A cross‐sectional cohort study
Authors: Mitchell Tim , Hadlow Narelle , Chakera Aron
Published: May 2014

Aim

Most laboratories are moving to report estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD‐EPI) formula. However, data on the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the population and its economic impact have to date been modelled using data derived from the modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) equation. Evaluating the impact of CKD‐EPI on prevalence has important implications for referral patterns and health expenditure.

Methods

eGFR were calculated from 2 295 313 creatinine results from 833 334 patients using the MDRD and CKD‐EPI formulae. The proportion of patients in each CKD stage was determined and annual rates of change of eGFR in patients assigned to a new CKD stage compared with their previous CKD stage calculated. The effects of age on eGFR were assessed.

Results

Reporting of eGFR using the CKD‐EPI equation reduced the prevalence of CKD stages III‐V from 9.2% to 7.6%. A total of 181 126 patients were reclassified using CKD‐EPI with 171 298 changing to a better CKD stage. Reclassification rates were highest in CKD stages II and III. Patients reclassified from stage III to II tended to be younger or female. eGFR declines rapidly after the age of 60.

Conclusions

Introduction of routine eGFR reporting using the CKD‐EPI formula will reduce the population prevalence of CKD. CKD‐EPI reporting better identifies patients at risk of further decline in renal function. Improvement in the classification should reduce unnecessary costs related to surveillance and referral. The impact of ageing on renal function should be appreciated.
Who can blame who for what and how in responsibility for health?
Authors: Snelling Paul C.
Published: May 2014

This paper starts by introducing a tripartite conception of responsibility for health consisting of a moral agent having moral responsibilities and being held responsible, that is blamed, for failing to meet them and proceeds to a brief discussion of the nature of the blame, noting difficulties in agency and obligation when the concept is applied to health‐threatening behaviours. Insights about the obligations that we hold people to and the extent of their moral agency are revealed by interrogating our blaming behavior, and to facilitate this, my own blaming attitudes and actions are analysed in respect of an imagined adult son who seeks thrills by jumping from a pier into the sea, an activity common around coastlines and intended to be analogous in varying degrees to a range of health‐threatening behaviours. I consider my responses to this imagined act in relation to some features of moralism, the excess of morality, concluding that blame can be justified when it is proportionate and within interpersonal relationships. There is evidence that some nurses hold negative blaming attitudes towards groups of patients considered to have caused or contributed to their illness, but this is not justified, not only because of impaired agency, but also because if there is responsibility for health, associated obligations are owed to those who share our lives, and it is those people who are entitled to hold individuals responsible. Nurses who hold negative blaming attitudes towards groups of patients are invited to identify the status of moral agency, the precise natures of their (failed) obligations, and of the patient–nurse relationship. It is concluded that reflection on these matters and the difference between justified blame and moralism demonstrates that blaming behaviour in the context of professional health care is built on nothing stronger than prejudice.
Resource depletion, pollen coupling, and the ecology of mast seeding
Authors: Crone Elizabeth E. , Rapp Joshua M.
Published: May 2014

Masting, the highly variable and synchronous production of seeds across a population of perennial plants, is an ecologically important, but still poorly understood, phenomenon. While much is known about the fitness benefits of masting and its effects on seed consumers and trophic interactions, less is understood about the proximate mechanisms of masting. The resource budget model (RBM) posits that masting requires more resources than plants can gain in a single year. Individual plants store resources until a threshold is reached and then produce seeds, which depletes resources so that plants cannot reproduce again for 2 or more years. Individuals are synchronized by pollen coupling or environmental forcing. We review the assumptions of these models and assess the extent to which they are consistent with general patterns in plant populations. We discuss the implications of the RBM for how plants respond to changes in the external environment. Overall, the RBM is a likely cause of synchrony in many, but not all, masting species. This mechanistic hypothesis also leads to specific, but not always intuitive, expectations about how plant resources affect mast seeding.
Fish or n3‐PUFA intake and body composition: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bender N. , Portmann M. , Heg Z. , Hofmann K. , Zwahlen M. , Egger M.
Published: May 2014

Obesity is a major public health issue and an important contributor to the global burden of chronic disease and disability. Studies indicate that fish and omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n3‐PUFA) supplements may help prevent cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. However, the effect of fish oil on body composition is still uncertain, so we performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials and the first meta‐analysis on the association between fish or fish oil intake and body composition measures. We found evidence that participants taking fish or fish oil lost 0.59 kg more body weight than controls (95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.96 to −0.21). Treatment groups lost 0.24 kg m−2 (body mass index) more than controls (−0.40 to −0.08), and 0.49 % more body fat than controls (−0.97 to −0.01). Fish or fish oil reduced waist circumference by 0.81 cm (−1.34 to −0.28) compared with control. There was no difference for fat mass and lean body mass. Further research is needed to confirm or refute our findings and to reveal possible mechanisms by which n3‐PUFAs might reduce weight.
A systematic review of skin closure techniques in primary cleft lip surgery
Authors: Pepper H.B. , Perry R. , Ness A. , Sandy J. , Thomas S.
Published: May 2014

Aim

To carry out a systematic review of the published evidence for skin closure techniques in primary cleft lip surgery.

Methods

Five electronic databases were searched from their inception to February 2013 to identify all relevant studies of wound closure techniques in primary cleft lip surgery. Two reviewers independently determined eligibility of studies, assessed the methodological quality of the included studies and extracted data.

Results

Six eligible studies were included. Five were observational studies so were prone to bias. One was a randomised controlled study. Four compared adhesive with sutures, one compared adhesives with steri‐strips and one compared absorbable and non‐absorbable sutures. No cases of dehiscence (primary outcome measure) were reported. The methodological quality of all the included studies was poor.

Conclusions

There is currently insufficient evidence to guide clinical practice for incision closure in primary cleft lip surgery. Adequately powered randomised controlled trials are required to address this issue.
Spine Interbody Implants: Material Selection and Modification, Functionalization and Bioactivation of Surfaces to Improve Osseointegration
Authors: Rao Prashanth J , Pelletier Matthew H , Walsh William R , Mobbs Ralph J
Published: May 2014

The clinical outcome of lumbar spinal fusion is correlated with achievement of bony fusion. Improving interbody implant bone on‐growth and in‐growth may enhance fusion, limiting pseudoarthrosis, stress shielding, subsidence and implant failure. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and titanium (Ti) are commonly selected for interbody spacer construction. Although these materials have desirable biocompatibility and mechanical properties, they require further modification to support osseointegration. Reports of extensive research on this topic are available in biomaterial‐centric published reports; however, there are few clinical studies concerning surface modification of interbody spinal implants. The current article focuses on surface modifications aimed at fostering osseointegration from a clinician's point of view. Surface modification of Ti by creating rougher surfaces, modifying its surface topography (macro and nano), physical and chemical treatment and creating a porous material with high interconnectivity can improve its osseointegrative potential and bioactivity. Coating the surface with osteoconductive materials like hydroxyapatite (HA) can improve osseointegration. BecausePEEKspacers are relatively inert, creating a composite by adding Ti or osteoconductive materials likeHAcan improve osseointegration. In addition,PEEKmay be coated with Ti, effectively bio‐activating the coating.
Three‐dimensional Computerized Preoperative Planning of Total Hip Arthroplasty with High‐Riding Dislocation Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Authors: Zeng Yi , Lai Ou‐jie , Shen Bin , Yang Jing , Zhou Zong‐ke , Kang Peng‐de , Pei Fu‐xing , Zhou Xuan
Published: May 2014

Objective

To assess whether computed tomography (CT)‐based 3‐dimensional (3D) computerized pre‐operative planning is accurate and reliable in patients with high‐riding dislocation developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

Between September 2009 and February 2011, a prospective study with an inbuilt means of comparing predictive techniques in 20 patients (20 hips) with high‐riding dislocation DDH was undertaken. All patients had pre‐ and post‐operative CT scans, data from which were transferred digitally to Mimics software. 3D pre‐operative planning to predict the acetabular component size, hip rotation center position and acetabular component coverage was performed using Mimics software. The results and post‐operative course were compared with those of the traditional acetate templating technique.

Results

Using 3D computerized planning, 14/20 components (70%) were predicted exactly and 6/20 (30%) within one size, whereas with the conventional acetate templating technique, 5/20 components (25%) were predicted exactly, 9/20 (45%) within one size and 6/20 (30%) within two or more sizes. There was a strong correlation between the 3D computerized planned acetabular component size, hip rotation center distance, acetabular component host coverage and that found postoperatively. Five patients were considered to need structural bone graft on the basis of 3D computerized planning; this was highly coincident with the intraoperative findings in all five cases.

Conclusion

CT‐based 3D computerized pre‐operative planning using Mimics software is an accurate and reliable technique for patients with high‐riding dislocation DDH undergoing THA.
What is the Rate of Lumbar Adjacent Segment Disease after Percutaneous versus Open Fusion?
Authors: Radcliff Kristen E , Kepler Christopher K , Maaieh Motasem , Anderson D Greg , Rihn Jeffrey , Albert Todd , Vaccaro Alex , Hilibrand Alan
Published: May 2014

Objective

Adjacent segment disease (ASD) requiring treatment or re‐operation is a common problem after surgery on the lumbar spine. The hypothesis of this retrospective study was that ASD occurs less often following lumbar spine fusion in patients who undergo percutaneous minimally invasive (MIS) instrumentation than in those in whom open instrumentation is used.

Methods

A case‐control study was performed on consecutive patients who had undergone staged single or two level anterior lumbar interbody fusion for degenerative conditions followed by open or MIS instrumentation from 2002 to 2005 in our institution. ASD was defined as that necessitating additional procedures for new symptoms related to an adjacent lumbar dermatome.

Results

One hundred and seventeen patients met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 53 had been followed up by chart or medical record review for longer than one year. There were 23 patients in the MIS group and 30 in the open group. Of the 30 patients in the open group, 9 had developed ASD (30%). Of the 23 patients in the MIS group, 7 had developed ASD (30%). This difference is not statistically significant (P = 1.00).

Conclusion

Contrary to our hypothesis, there was no significant difference in incidence of ASD in patients who had underwent open versus percutaneous instrumentation following anterior lumbar interbody fusion.
Biomechanical Analysis of Four Types of Internal Fixation in Subtrochanteric Fracture Models
Authors: Wang Jie , Ma Xin‐long , Ma Jian‐xiong , Xing Dan , Yang Yang , Zhu Shao‐wen , Ma Bao‐yi , Chen Yang , Feng Rui , Jia Hao‐bo , Yu Jing‐tao
Published: May 2014

Objective

To compare the biomechanical properties of four types of internal fixation (proximal femoral nail [PFN], dynamic hip screw [DHS], dynamic condylar screw [DCS], and proximal femoral locking plate [PFLP]) for different types of subtrochanteric fractures.

Methods

Thirty‐two antiseptic femurs were randomly divided into four groups. After internal fixation had been implanted, different types of subtrochanteric fracture models were produced and each tested under vertical, torsional and vertical damage loads.

Results

The stiffness ratio of PFN in each fracture model and failure load were the highest in the four groups; however, the torsional stiffness ratio was the lowest. Tension strain ratios of DHS and DCS on the lateral side became compression strain ratios with restoration of the medial fragment. The stiffness ratio of DHS was lower than PFLP in each fracture model, torsional stiffness ratio was the highest in fracture models II to V and the failure load was lower only than PFN. The stiffness ratio and failure load of DCS were both the lowest, torsional stiffness ratio was similar to PFLP's in fracture models II to V. The stiffness ratio of PFLP was only lower than PFN's in each fracture model, but the failure load was lower than DHS's.

Conclusion

Four types of internal fixation achieve better stabilities for type I subtrochanteric fractures. PFN and PFLP produce reliable stability in type IIIA subtrochanteric fractures. If the medial buttress is restored, DCS can be considered. For type IV subtrochanteric fractures, only PFN provides stable fixation. PFLP is suitable for comminuted fractures with large fragments.
Atrial High Rate Episodes in Patients with Dual‐Chamber Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices: Unmasking Silent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: BENEZET‐MAZUECOS JUAN , RUBIO JOSÉ MANUEL , FARRÉ JERÓNIMO
Published: May 2014

Assessment of the prevalence of silent paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) represents a challenge, since the arrhythmia may be brief, completely asymptomatic, and difficult to detect. Lack of symptoms from AF should not be equated to lack of risk of thromboembolic complications. Today's cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) diagnostics include system diagnostics accurately revealing asymptomatic cardiac arrhythmias as atrial high rate episodes (AHRE). The presence of AHRE has been related to increased risk of stroke and systemic embolism. The application of anticoagulation therapy in patients with device‐detected AHRE is yet unclear and challenging in the absence of randomized studies. Until further studies are available, anticoagulation therapy should be individualized and promoted attending to the CHADS2 score. Future guidelines should deal with this peculiar AF scenario to make professionals who routinely perform CIED follow‐ups aware of these relevant episodes and their clinical implications.
Chronic N‐Methyl‐d‐Aspartate Receptor Activation Induces Cardiac Electrical Remodeling and Increases Susceptibility to Ventricular Arrhythmias
Authors: SHI SHAOBO , LIU TAO , LI YAFENG , QIN MU , TANG YANHONG , SHEN JERRY Y. , LIANG JINJUN , YANG BO , HUANG CONGXIN
Published: May 2014

Background

N‐Methyl‐d‐aspartate receptors, also known as NMDA Receptors or NMDAR, are glutamate receptors that control calcium ion channels and regulate synaptic plasticity. Acute NMDAR activation can induce ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). However, the influence of chronic NMDAR activation on cardiac electrophysiology remains unknown.

Methods and Results

Wistar rats were randomly administered 0.9% saline (CTL group), NMDA (N group), or NMDA plus MK801 (N+M group) for 14 days. Compared with the CTL group, the N group displayed elevated heart rate and prolonged QT, QTc, and TpTe intervals in the electrocardiogram (P < 0.05 for all). Then, the S1S2, S1S1, and Burst pacing were performed to assess the characteristics of repolarization; threshold of action potential duration (APD) alternans; beat‐to‐beat variability of repolarization (BVR); and VAs susceptibility in the left ventricular. The prolonged APD at 90% repolarization (APD90); decreased ERP/APD90; increased dispersion of APD90, ERP, and ERP/APD90; decreased threshold of APD alternans; increased BVR; and incidence of VAs were showed in the N group compared with those of the CTL group (P < 0.01 for all). Moreover, chronic NMDA administration reduced the expression of Kv4.2, Kv4.3, KChIP2, and Kv11.1 proteins, and induced mild myocardial interstitial fibrosis (P < 0.01 for all). Importantly, these alterations induced by NMDA were normalized by co‐treatment with MK801.

Conclusion

Chronic NMDAR activation prolonged repolarization, induced electrical instability, and facilitated VAs, which may be associated with reduced Ito and IKr and myocardial fibrosis.
Clinical, Anatomical, and Technical Risk Factors for Postoperative Pacemaker or Defibrillator Lead Perforation with Particular Focus on Myocardial Thickness
Authors: SCHWERG MARIUS , STOCKBURGER MARTIN , SCHULZE CHRISTOPH , BONDKE HANSJÜRGEN , POLLER WOLFRAM C. , LEMBCKE ALEXANDER , MELZER CHRISTOPH
Published: May 2014

Background

Postoperative lead perforation is a life‐threatening complication of cardiac pacing. Identification of precipitating factors for this serious complication may help to anticipate a specific risk profile and to minimize the incidence.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective tertiary referral center analysis to clarify clinical, anatomical, and technical characteristics related to pacemaker (PM) and cardioverter/defibrillator lead perforation.

We examined the baseline characteristics and the symptoms. In a subgroup, we investigated the myocardial thickness on contrast‐enhanced cardiac computed tomography.

Results

We enrolled 26 patients. Female gender appears to put patients at slightly increased risk for lead perforation. In a majority active fixation leads were used. Symptoms occurred in 72%. Pericardial effusion and tamponade were present in 38% and 19%, respectively. Sensing was compromised in 65%. A high pacing threshold or exit block occurred in 92%. Myocardial thickness did not differ between patients with or without perforation. In 96%, the perforation was treated by transvenous withdrawal.

Conclusion

Chest pain, phrenic stimulation, bad sensing, or exit block early after PM implantation must prompt radiological and echocardiographic evaluation. A missing pericardial effusion particularly late after implantation does not rule out a perforation. Especially active fixating leads have a higher risk of perforation. With cardiac surgery in standby transvenous withdrawal is a safe way to treat lead perforation.
Clonal profiling of mixed lobular and ductal carcinoma revealed by multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification and fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Tajiri Ryosuke , Inokuchi Masafumi , Sawada‐Kitamura Seiko , Kawashima Hiroko , Nakamura Ritsuko , Oyama Takeru , Dobashi Yoh , Ooi Akishi
Published: May 2014

A needle biopsy of a mass in the right breast of a 36‐year‐old woman revealed invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC), and approximately 20% of cancer cells showed unequivocal membranous staining with the HercepTest. After systemic therapy with trastuzumab and paclitaxel followed by FEC (fluorouracil + epirubicin + cyclophosphamide), a right mastectomy was performed. By histological and immunohistochemical examinations, the resected tumor consisted mainly of E‐cadherin‐negative invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), and the rest was ERBB2‐positive IDC; thus, the diagnosis was mixed ductal and lobular carcinoma. Multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analyses revealed that ILC and IDC shared high‐level amplification of CCND1 in homogeneously staining regions (HSR) and that IDC had an additional HSR‐type amplicon of ERBB2. These findings strongly indicate that IDC and ILC had a common precursor cell with CCND1 amplification. Review of the biopsy specimen with FISH showed IDC with gene amplifications of CCND1 and ERBB2 as a minor component, IDC without amplification of CCND1 or ERBB2 as a major component, and a minute portion of ILC with CCND1 amplification. We speculate that chemotherapy and trastuzumab caused a marked reduction in IDC; however, ILC with CCND1 amplification was resistant to chemotherapy and grew.
Mice lacking α1,3‐fucosyltransferase 9 exhibit modulation of in vivo immune responses against pathogens
Authors: Kashiwazaki Hiromi , Kakizaki Masatoshi , Ikehara Yuzuru , Togayachi Akira , Narimatsu Hisashi , Watanabe Rihito
Published: May 2014

Carbohydrate structures, including Lewis X (Lex), which is not synthesized in mutant mice that lack α1,3‐fucosyltransferase 9 (Fut9−/−), are involved in cell–cell recognition and inflammation. However, immunological alteration in Fut9−/− mice has not been studied. Thus, the inflammatory response of Fut9−/− mice was examined using the highly neurovirulent mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) JHMV srr7 strain. Pathological study revealed that inflammation induced in the brains of Fut9−/− mice after infection was more extensive compared with that of wild‐type mice, although viral titers obtained from the brains of mutant mice were lower than those of wild‐type mice. Furthermore, the reduction in cell numbers in the spleens of wild‐type mice after infection was not observed in the infected Fut9−/− mice. Although there were no clear differences in the levels of cytokines examined in the brains between Fut9−/− and wild‐type mice except for interferon‐β (IFN‐β) expression, some of those in the spleens, including interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1), showed higher levels in Fut9−/− than in wild‐type mice. Furthermore, Fut9−/− mice were refractory to the in vivo inoculation of endotoxin (LPS) compared with wild‐type mice. These results indicate that Lex structures are involved in host responses against viral or bacterial challenges.
Community‐acquired lobar pneumonia caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in Japan: A case report with histological and immunohistochemical examination
Authors: Takajo Daiji , Iwaya Keiichi , Katsurada Yuka , Miyai Kosuke , Takasu Akira , Matsubara Osamu , Sakamoto Toshihisa , Tamai Seiichi , Tsuda Hitoshi
Published: May 2014

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a common pathogen in nosocomial and/or healthcare‐associated pneumonia, but is rare in community‐acquired pneumonia. A 50‐year‐old previously healthy woman was taken to the emergency department because of rapidly progressing dyspnea. Chest radiograph showed consolidation of the entire right upper lobe, a finding suggestive of lobar pneumonia. The patient died of respiratory failure with bronchial bleeding, on the same day of admission. Autopsy revealed that the alveoli throughout the upper right lobe were filled with dense inflammatory cells mainly consisting of macrophages and neutrophils. Immunoreactive bacilli by using an anti‐P. aeruginosa antibody were localized within macrophages accumulated in the alveoli as well in the vessel walls. Lobar pneumonia composed of dense neutrophils and bacteria‐laden macrophages with total lung congestion and edema may be characteristic for community‐acquired P. aeruginosa pneumonia in a healthy adult.
Coexistence of Tuberculosis and Mammary Carcinoma in a Goat
Authors: Quintas H , Alegria N , Mendonça A , Botelho A , Alves A , Pires I
Published: May 2014

Contents

Synchronic occurrence of tuberculosis mastitis and mammary cancer is rare in humans and, to the best of our knowledge, not reported in domestic animals. Here, we present a case of a female adult goat of Serrana breed with simultaneous occurrence of a granulomatous mastitis, due to Mycobacterium caprae, and a mammary carcinoma. Both pathological conditions are rare in goats and should be included in differential diagnosis of mammary lesions.
Retracted: ATP Content, Oxidative Stress and Motility of Beluga (Huso huso) Semen: Effect of Short‐Term Storage
Authors: Aramli MS
Published: May 2014

Contents

An effective technique for short‐term storage of semen is essential when processing multiple sperm samples and when semen must be transported from collection sites to hatcheries for the fertilization of ova or to laboratories for cryopreservation. In this experiment, beluga (Huso huso) sperm were used to evaluate the effects of short‐term storage on several quality parameters (i.e. motility, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content and oxidative stress indices). Sperm cells exhibited > 50% motility during 3 days of storage with an average total duration of sperm motility varying from 13.33 ± 5.77 to 278.33 ± 25.65 s, and no motile spermatozoa were recorded after 9 days of storage. The levels of oxidative stress indices (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and carbonyl derivatives of proteins) and antioxidant activity (superoxide dismutase) increased significantly after 3 days of storage. The ATP content also decreased significantly after 2 days of storage. The results of this study can be used to develop effective reproduction management and cryopreservation protocols for this endangered fish.
CPAP and heart failure
Authors: Gerhardy Benjamin C. , Simpson Graham , Ferns Janine
Published: May 2014

See reply, page 767‐768
Long-range orientation and atomic attachment of nanocrystals in 2D honeycomb superlattices
Authors: Boneschanscher M. P. , Evers W. H. , Geuchies J. J. , Altantzis T. , Goris B. , Rabouw F. T. , van Rossum S. A. P. , van der Zant H. S. J. , Siebbeles L. D. A. , Van Tendeloo G. , Swart I. , Hilhorst J. , Petukhov A. V. , Bals S. , Vanmaekelbergh D.
Published: May 2014

Nanoparticle lattices and surfaces

The challenge of resolving the details of the surfaces or assemblies of colloidal semiconductor nanoparticles can be overcome if several characterization methods are used (see the Perspective by Boles and Talapin). Boneschanscher
et al.
examined honeycomb superlattices of lead selenide nanocrystals formed by the bonding of crystal faces using several methods, including high-resolution electron microscopy and tomography. The structure had octahedral symmetry with the nanocrystals distorted through “necking”: the expansion of the contact points between the nanocrystals. Zherebetskyy
et al.
used a combination of theoretical calculations and spectroscopic methods to study the surface layer of lead sulfide nanocrystals synthesized in water. In addition to the oleic acid groups that capped the nanocrystals, hydroxyl groups were present as well.

Science
, this issue p.
1377
, p.
1380
; see also p.
1340
Unconditional quantum teleportation between distant solid-state quantum bits
Authors: Pfaff W. , Hensen B. J. , Bernien H. , van Dam S. B. , Blok M. S. , Taminiau T. H. , Tiggelman M. J. , Schouten R. N. , Markham M. , Twitchen D. J. , Hanson R.
Published: May 2014

Toward quantum teleportation on demand

Quantum information processing relies on the ability to store, manipulate, and propagate information encoded in quantum states of matter. Doing so, however, may destroy or compromise these delicate quantum states. Pfaff
et al.
present a quantum teleportation protocol that uses two defects in diamond 3 m apart (see the Perspective by Atatüre and Morton). They then map the quantum state of one of the diamond defects onto the other. The work presents a key building block for the successful development of larger quantum networks.

Science
, this issue p.
532
; see also p.
510
Genome Sequence of the Novel Reassortant Mammalian Orthoreovirus Strain MRV00304/13, Isolated from a Calf with Diarrhea from the United States
Authors: Anbalagan Srivishnupriya , Spaans Tina , Hause Ben M.
Published: May 2014

Mammalian orthoreovirus (MRV) strain MRV00304/13 was isolated from diarrheic calves. The serotype-specific antigen σ1 was found to be 95% identical to that of bovine MRV1. All predicted viral proteins had >92% identity to those of MRV except µ2 and σ1s (80 and 72% identities, respectively), suggesting that MRV00304/13 is a novel reassortant MRV1.
Draft Genome Sequence of
bla
NDM-1
-Positive Escherichia coli O25b-ST131 Clone Isolated from an Environmental Sample
Authors: Kutumbaka Kirthi K. , Han Sukkyun , Mategko James , Nadala Cesar , Buser Genevieve L. , Cassidy Maureen P. , Beldavs Zintars G. , Weissman Scott J. , Morey Karim E. , Vega Robert , Samadpour Mansour
Published: May 2014

A multidrug-resistant NDM-1 carbapenamase-producing
Escherichia coli
sequence type 131 (ST131) organism was obtained from vacuum cleaner dust collected from the home of a case patient. Here, we report the assembly and annotation of its genome.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Field Isolate Brucella melitensis Strain Bm IND1 from India
Authors: Rao Sashi Bhushan , Gupta Vivek K. , Kumar Mukesh , Hegde Nagendra R. , Splitter Gary A. , Reddanna Pallu , Radhakrishnan Girish K.
Published: May 2014

Brucella
spp. are facultative intracellular bacterial pathogens causing the zoonotic disease brucellosis. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of the
Brucella melitensis
strain from India designated Bm IND1, isolated from stomach contents of an aborted goat fetus.
Draft Genome Sequence of Bacillus thuringiensis Strain LM1212, Isolated from the Cadaver of an
Oryctes gigas
Larva in Madagascar
Authors: Liu Guiming , Deng Chao , Song Lai , Peng Qi , Zhang Jie , Lereclus Didier , Song Fuping
Published: May 2014

We report the draft genome sequence of
Bacillus thuringiensis
strain LM1212, which differentiates into crystal producers or spore formers during the stationary phase. Availability of this genome sequence will facilitate the study of spore formation, crystal formation, cell differentiation, and evolution of
B. thuringiensis
.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Frankia
sp. Strain BMG5.23, a Salt-Tolerant Nitrogen-Fixing Actinobacterium Isolated from the Root Nodules of
Casuarina glauca
Grown in Tunisia
Authors: Ghodhbane-Gtari Faten , Hurst Sheldon G. , Oshone Rediet , Morris Krystalynne , Abebe-Akele Feseha , Thomas W. Kelley , Ktari Amir , Salem Karima , Gtari Maher , Tisa Louis S.
Published: May 2014

Nitrogen-fixing actinobacteria of the genus
Frankia
are symbionts of woody dicotyledonous plants termed actinorhizal plants. We report here a 5.27-Mbp draft genome sequence for
Frankia
sp. strain BMG5.23, a salt-tolerant nitrogen-fixing actinobacterium isolated from root nodules of
Casuarina glauca
collected in Tunisia
.
Drug-induced thrombocytopenia secondary to natalizumab treatment
Authors: Cachia David , Izzy Saef , Berriosmorales Idanis , Ionete Carolina
Published: May 2014

A 52-year-old woman with a 10-year history of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) was started on natalizumab after she developed side effects for interferon β-1a and glatiramer acetate. The patient presented with acute severe infusion reaction after the third treatment with natalizumab, developing whole-body purpura. Laboratory testing revealed progressive worsening thrombocytopenia up to 3 weeks following natalizumab discontinuation. Platelet antibodies to platelet-specific antigen as well as antibodies against natalizumab were positive. Bone marrow biopsy was negative. The patient was diagnosed with drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia (DITP) as a rare case of natalizumab side effect which was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone followed by rituximab with successful resolution of thrombocytopenia. The patient had a stable course of RRMS with no relapses and no brain MRI changes at 2 years after initiation of rituximab.
Acute necrotising pancreatitis: a late and fatal complication of pancreaticoduodenal arterial embolisation
Authors: Matta Abhishek , Tandra Pavan Kumar , Cichowski Erica , Reddymasu Savio Charan
Published: May 2014

A 70-year-old man was diagnosed with a massive bleeding duodenal ulcer which was refractory to emergency endoscopic management. Angiogram of the coeliac and superior mesenteric arteries revealed bleeding from the superior and inferior pancreaticoduodenal arteries. Transcatheter arterial embolisation of superior and inferior pancreaticoduodenal arteries along with the gastroduodenal artery was performed. Two weeks later he developed severe necrotising pancreatitis of the pancreatic head probably due to ischaemia, which was managed conservatively. Three months later the patient experienced another episode of pancreatitis which progressed into multiorgan dysfunction and the patient passed away.
Biventricular thrombosis in a structurally normal heart at high altitude
Authors: Malani Susheel , Chadha Davinder , Banerji Anup
Published: May 2014

We present a rare case of biventricular thrombus in a young patient with a structurally normal heart at high altitude, complicated with pulmonary embolism. Detailed evaluation revealed him to have protein S deficiency. Altered environmental conditions at high altitude associated with protein S deficiency resulted in thrombus formation at an unusual location; the same is discussed in this case report.
A non-fatal intoxication with a high-dose sodium nitrate
Authors: Joosen Dorien , Stolk Leo , Henry Ronald
Published: May 2014

A 67-year-old man accidentally ingested 75 g of sodium nitrate. He had instant gastrointestinal symptoms. On physical examination, he was respiratorily and haemodynamically stable and there were no signs of central or peripheral cyanosis. Repeated methaemoglobin levels were normal and he made an uneventful recovery. Sodium nitrate intoxication is rare. Serious effects can occur, mainly through formation of nitrite and nitric oxide, which can cause methaemoglobinaemia and vasodilation. Even if the presenting symptoms are mild, it is important to remain cautious since more serious symptoms can occur later. Monitoring of respiratory and haemodynamic status and repeated blood gas analysis in order to detect methaemoglobinaemia are recommended.
Signposting GP trainees to relevant learning opportunities in hospital posts:the Super-condensed Curriculum Guide
Authors: Denney MeiLing
Published: May 2014

UK three-year GP specialty training programmes consist of 18 months in hospital posts and 18 months in general practice. Within the hospital setting, clinical supervisors of GP trainees may have difficulty determining which learning opportunities available within the post are most relevant to training for a future career in general practice. Feedback from GP trainees has indicated that there is a lack of consistency in hospital posts regarding relevance of training for general practice.

The aim of the project was to provide support to the hospital supervisors in order to improve the overall quality of hospital posts in GPST programmes and their relevance to General Practice training, and to provide guidance to GP trainees to target their learning most effectively within each specialty post to improve relevance to future career. The deanery set out to develop a tool, the Super Condensed Curriculum Guide (SCCG) consisting of a set of documents created for a specialty with involvement from stakeholder groups. It was intended that this guide would stand alongside the relevant part of the GP curriculum. A programme of familiarisation and initial training for clinical supervisors was delivered. Take-up of the clinical supervisor training sessions was not uniform. Following favourable initial feedback from trainee groups and clinical supervisors across the region, the guides were developed for the remaining specialties in the programme.

Trainees were also informed about the guide and how it might help focus their learning in a hospital post. Feedback from trainees across the specialties was positive, but more needs to be done to engage clinical supervisors across the range of specialties. This will improve the utility of the tool, help to guide the clinical supervisor in their teaching, and make sure each post is as educationally effective as possible.
BRAFV600 co-testing in thyroid FNA cytology: short-term experience in a large cancer centre in the UK
Authors: Poller David N , Glaysher Sharon , Agrawal Avi , Caldera Saliya , Kim Dae , Yiangou Constantinos
Published: May 2014

Aims

To ascertain whetherBRAFV600 mutational analysis is useful for diagnosis of thyroid cancer in thyroid fine needle aspirate (FNA).

Methods

Over 8 months thyroid FNAs reported as Thy 3F(neoplasm possible/suggestive of follicular neoplasm), Thy4 (suspicious of malignancy) and Thy 5 (malignant) were tested forBRAFV600 mutation and managed as malignant if mutations were present.

Results

Of 207 FNAs from 176 patients, 5 were Thy 5, 19 Thy 4, 36 Thy 3f,13 Thy 3a, 84 Thy 2 and 50 Thy 1. 11 Thy 3f, 15 Thy 4 and 3 Thy 5 FNAs were tested forBRAFV600 mutation. 0 Thy 3F cases, 6 Thy 4 and 1 Thy 5 (24% of the total tested) showed evidence of mutation. Four patients withBRAFV600 mutation underwent surgery to remove all thyroid tissue, two patients received a lobectomy and one patient is awaiting thyroidectomy. All patients withBRAFV600 mutation were found to have malignancy on final histology, with a diagnostic sensitivity for malignancy excluding coincidental microcarcinoma of 43% and specificity of 100%.

Conclusions

BRAFV600 mutational analysis can enable single-stage total thyroidectomy for carcinoma if gene mutation is present in preoperative FNA.BRAFV600 co-testing may reduce the need for completion thyroidectomy with implied cost savings and lower patient morbidity associated with completion thyroidectomy when the cytology is inconclusive but whereBRAFV600 mutation is identified in preoperative thyroid FNA.