bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperosmolar Versus Detergent Sclerosing Agents in Sclerotherapy
Authors: SADICK NEIL S.
Published: June 2013

background. Sclerosing agents produce local endothelial destruction extending to the adventitia of the vessel wall while producing minimal thrombosis formation. They are rapidly inactivated in order to prevent damage far beyond the injection site. It has been stated that detergent sclerosants may have more distal sclerosing capabilities than hyperosmolar sclerosants.

objective. The present study compares the in vivo relative potential of polidocanol (POL.), a detergent sclerosing agent, and hypertonic saline (H.S.), a hyperosmolar sclerosant in their effects on distal vessel obliteration.

method. Symmetrical Class III reticular vessels of 2–3‐mm diameter were injected with equal amounts (0.5 cc) of sclerosing solutions: 0.5% POL. in the left leg and 23.4% H.S. in the right leg. Distance of vessel sclerosing effect was calibrated from the inferior patellar tendon employing a calibrated measuring window. Standard compression (20–30 mm Hg) was employed for 72 hours after each treatment session. Patients were examined at 2‐, 4‐, 6‐, 8‐, 10‐, and 16‐week intervals for vascular sclerosing resolution effect.

results. The mean distance of vessel sclerosis utilizing 23.4% H.S. was 6.24 cm utilizing 0.5% POL. The mean duration of time to clinical disappearance of treated vessels was 6.4 weeks for the H.S.‐treated extremity vs 6.2 weeks of the POL.‐treated extremity. The difference of both parameters in terms of distance of sclerosing effect and time interval to achieve this effect were not statistically significant for either variable utilizing POL. or H.S.

conclusions. Hyperosmolar and detergent sclerosants such as POL. and H.S. in comparable concentrations for given vessel diameter may provide equal degrees of vessel obliteration clinically over equivalent periods of time in vivo. Other factors such as minimal sclerosant concentration, hypersensitivity/complication profile, patient discomfort, sclerosant availability, and physician experience are other important factors in choosing a sclerosing agent for a given clinical setting.
Females Vastly Outnumber Males in Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Upper Lip
Authors: ROWE DAN , GALLAGHER RICHARD P. , WARSHAWSKI LARRY , CARRUTHERS ALASTAIR
Published: June 2013

background. It was noted that females, particularly young females, outnumbered males with basal cell Carcinoma (BCC) of the upper lip among patients treated by Mohs micrographic surgery in Vancouver, British Columbia.

objective. To investigate female‐to‐male ratios for BCC of the upper lip at the Vancouver Mohs micrographic surgery Service, and to compare this with data from the provincial‐wide registry as well as with worldwide data in the literature.

methods. The female‐to‐male ratios by age group were determined for 136 upper lip lesions treated at the Mohs Service from 1983 to 1992. Similar data were obtained from 731 perioral BCCs recorded at the provincial‐wide registry from 1982 to 1989. The literature was reviewed for comparative data worldwide.

results. At the Mohs Service females outnumber males 3.5:1 for upper lip BCCs. Young females 30–39 years old outnumber males 16:1. Regional data from the British Columbia Cancer Registry confirm that females outnumber males 2:1 for the lip region (including upper lip, lower lip, nasolabial fold). This is significant when compared with all BCCs diagnosed in the prov‐ince (ie, all sites), in which males outnumber females 1.3:1. Data from the literature worldwide confirm this relationship.

conclusion. BCC of the upper lip is a female‐predominated disease. Young females are at a much higher risk for this disease than young males.
Epidermoid Anal Canal Carcinoma Metastatic to the Skin
Authors: NAZZARI GUIDO , DRAGO FRANCESCO , MALATTO MASSIMO , CROVATO FRANCO
Published: June 2013

background. Cancers of the anal canal are rare, but their frequency i's constantly increasing. Only 10–20% of the patients develop a local recurrence and about 20% distant visceral metastases.

objective. To report what we believe to be the first case of skin metastases of epidermoid anal canal Carcinoma mimicking a typical clinical pattern of prostatic adenocarcinoma metastases.
Hair Transplant by Incisional Strip Harvesting
Authors: BISACCIA EMIL , SCARBOROUGH DWIGHT
Published: June 2013

The art of hair transplantation has continued to develop, achieving surgical correction with an enhanced aesthetic outcome. We have used incisional harvesting with donor site closure and have found that incisional harvesting allows for much more latitude in choosing slit, strip, micro, mini, or the standard round or square punch technique.
Elliptical Donor Stereoscopically Assisted Micrografting as an Approach to Further Refinement in Hair Transplantation
Authors: LIMMER BOBBY L.
Published: June 2013

background. Multiple surgical methods are currently used for hair transplantation. Each method has a specific technique, morbidity, and relatively predictable cosmetic result.

objective. To describe a methodology that combines elliptical excision of donor tissue and dissection under stereoscopic magnification into small grafts to obtain an improved final cosmetic result. For the purposes of this paper, any graft small enough to be easily inserted into a 16‐, 18‐, or 20‐gauge needle tunnel will be referred to as a micrograft.

method. Three hundred thirty patients underwent transplantation by this method over a 6‐year period. All patients were photographed before, during, and upon completion to monitor results.

results. Cosmetic results as documented by examination and photography represent a further refinement due to the large number and small size of grafts placed.

conclusion. The author considers the method described as a viable alternative technique in hair transplantation for both limited and extensive androgenetic alopecia.
CO2, Argon, and Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment of Angiofibromas
Authors: BOIXEDA PABLO , SÁNCHEZ‐MIRALLES ENRIQUE , AZAÑA JOSÉ MANUEL , ARRAZOLA JOSÉ MARIA , MORENO RAMÓN , LEDO ANTONIO
Published: June 2013

background. Tuberous sclerosis is a complex Aisorder of hamartoma formation in many organs, particularly the skin, brain, eye, kidney, and heart. The characteristic skin lesions are angiofibromas (AF), the shagreen patch, periungual fibromas, and “ash‐leaf” white macules. Treatment for AF has previously included electrocoagulation, electrodesiccation and curettage, dermabrasion, excision, cryosurgery, and oral 23‐cis retinoic acid. Both argon and CO2 lasers have been used in isolated cases to treat AF.

objective. The purpose of this work is the study of the application of three different lasers in the treatment of facial AF.

methods. Ten patients with facial AF were treated with CO2, argon, and pulsed dye lasers. Patients' AF were graded with regard to the size and color of the lesions. A 2–3‐cm2 test was assayed on the face of all patients with each laser before performing a complete treatment and in Order to choose the best laser.

results. Results were considered excellent in seven patients and good in three patients, with decrease of erythema and flattening of the AF. Minimal scarring was noted in two patients. Transient erythema was observed in patients treated with the CO2 laser. All patients or their parents considered the treatment cosmetically satisfactory.

conclusion. We found the CO2 laser to be a better therapeutic tool than the argon laser to treat AF, especially in those patients with multiple and protuberant AF. The argon laser would be more useful in those patients with very red AF and light complexion, and the pulsed dye laser in those with very red and flat AF.
Laser Photocoagulation of Superficial Proliferating Hemangiomas
Authors: WANER MILTON , SUEN JAMES YEE , DINEHART S. , MALLORY S. B.
Published: June 2013

Hemangiomas present at, or soon after birth, proliferate and eventually involute. In spite of this, children may suffer severe psychosocial trauma during the formative years of their lives, and, in a proportion of cases, a cosmetically unacceptable result is left at the end of involution. Since flashlamp pumped dye lasers have been shown to selectively destroy ectatic dermal vascular tissue through intact epidermis, 6 patients with very early superficial cutaneous hemangiomas were treated. All treated areas resolved completely and treatment was completed by 12 months. No complications were encountered apart from mild, temporary post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation which was seen in one patient. This, however, resolved completely within 3 months of treatment. Flashlamp pumped dye lasers are thus able to effect complete resolution of very superficial proliferating cutaneous hemangiomas in neonates and infants without the risk of scarring.
Copper Vapor Laser and Microsclerotherapy of Facial Telangiectases: A Patient Questionnaire
Authors: THIBAULT PAUL KENNETH
Published: June 2013

background. Facial telangiectasia due to photodamage is a common disfiguring condition in modern society. Over the past 10 years yellow light laser photocoagulation has become the treatment of choice,

objective. To compare the effectiveness of copper vapor laser alone with combined microsclerotherapy and copper vapor laser in the treatment of facial telangiectases,

methods. Two hundred thirty‐nine consecutive patients were asked to complete a questionnaire evaluating the two different treatments; 180 (75%) patients responded,

results. Both treatments were found to be effective but patients who received the combined treatment gave significantly higher ratings in effectiveness and overall satisfaction. There was also non‐significant reduction in the incidence of adverse effects reported by patients treated by the combined method,

conclusion. Supplementary microsclerotherapy enhances the effectiveness of copper vapor laser photocoagulation of facial telangiectases,
August's Child is … Favoured by Fortune
Authors: Brewer Lauren M. , Cochran James J.
Published: June 2013

Our last issue1 told how some children born under Sagittarius are denied childcare. Here Lauren M. Brewer and James J. Cochran tell how the disadvantage of birth-month can pursue a child through later education – and through life.
Modelling the Regional Heterogeneity of South Africa's Trade
Authors: Smet Koen
Published: June 2013

This paper develops a three‐dimensional Heckscher–Ohlin trade framework to discuss the regional heterogeneity of South Africa's trade pattern. First, a general analysis of trade data for the period 1993‐2006 displays significant differences in the South African trade pattern with the EU and China. Second, a symmetrical three‐dimensional trade model is constructed to explain trade among South Africa, the EU and China by means of differences in the endowment with skilled labour, less skilled labour and capital. The discussion of the actual trade model is visualised by means of the concept of the endowment triangle. Third, a detailed descriptive analysis that uses and combines three different classification measures supports the theoretical predictions of the developed trade model. The paper shows that the three‐dimensional model can be used to model South Africa's basic trade relationship.
The Impact of Social Housing Developments on Nearby Property Prices: a Nelson Mandela Bay Case Study
Authors: Du Preez Mario , Sale Michael
Published: June 2013

Social housing projects often face substantial “Not‐in‐my‐backyard” (NIMBY) sentiment and, as a result, are frequently plagued by local opposition from communities who argue that nearby property prices will be affected adversely by these developments. International hedonic pricing studies conducted have, however, produced mixed results with some concluding that social housing developments may in fact lead to an improvement in surrounding property values. There is, however, a paucity of South African evidence. This study considers the validity of the most pervasive NIMBY argument, the claim that social housing developments negatively affect nearby property values, by considering the property prices of 170 single‐family homes in the Walmer neighbourhood, Nelson Mandela Bay, as a function of their proximity to an existing low‐cost housing development. The results of this study indicate that in the case of one Nelson Mandela Bay low‐cost housing development, a negative impact is exerted on the property values of nearby houses.
Efficacy and tolerability of udenafil in Turkish men with erectile dysfunction of psychogenic and organic aetiology: a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Ortaç M. , Çayan S. , Çalışkan M. K. , Yaman M. Ö. , Okutucu T. M. , Semerci M. B. , Altay A. B. , Balbay M. D. , Özcan M. F. , Kadıoğlu A.
Published: June 2013

Udenafil is a potent phosphodiesterase type‐5 inhibitor (PDE5) previously shown in studies conducted in populations of Eastern‐Asian ethnicity, to significantly improve sexual function, in addition to a favourable safety profile. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of udenafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED), for the first time in a non‐Eastern‐Asian population. In this multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, parallel, placebo‐controlled study conducted in five centres in Turkey, 118 eligible subjects were randomized to receive udenafil 100 mg taken as on‐demand or matching placebo for an 8‐week treatment period. The primary efficacy variable was the change from baseline of the International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire–Erectile Function Domain (IIEF–EFD) score, secondary efficacy variables were changes from baseline in IIEF Questionnaire Domains' 2–5 scores (Intercourse Satisfaction, Orgasmic Function, Sexual Desire, Overall Sexual Satisfaction) and IIEF Questionnaire Grand Total score, changes from baseline in penetration success rates (SEP2) and intercourse completion rates (SEP3) and evaluation of responses to the global assessment question (GAQ). Patients treated with udenafil demonstrated significantly higher increase in the IIEF–EFD scores compared with placebo‐treated subjects [4.0 (95% CI: 1.3–6.6; p = 0.003)]. Similarly, greater improvements were observed in the scores for SEP2 [0.65 (95% CI: 0.02–1.3, p = 0.043)], SEP3 [0.9 (95% CI: 0.3–1.5, p = 0.003)] and two other IIEF Questionnaire Domains (Domain 4: Sexual Desire, Domain 5: Overall Sexual Satisfaction). The proportion of positive responses to the GAQ was greater in the udenafil compared to the placebo group (72.2% vs. 49.1%, p = 0.014). The most frequent treatment‐emergent adverse events were headache, flushing and rhinorrhea, all of mild or moderate severity. This is the first study to demonstrate in a non‐Eastern‐Asian population that udenafil 100 mg taken as on‐demand can effectively improve erectile function and is well tolerated.
When the Agent Knows Better than the Principal: The Effect of Education and Seniority on European Parliament Rapporteur Assignment
Authors: Daniel William T.
Published: June 2013

This article examines the assignment of legislative rapporteurships to Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). Original data sources are used to test the assumption that committee reports are routinely awarded to MEPs with higher levels of education and seniority at the European level. The hypotheses are supported by an extensive multivariate regression analysis, which also demonstrates the increasing value of rapporteurships, following the initiation of Parliament's veto player status under co‐decision. The article surpasses existing accounts of committee work in the European Parliament to include data on the individual balance of legislative power for the legislature's full history, 1979–2009.
The Year that Israel Considered Joining the European Economic Community
Authors: Pardo Sharon
Published: June 2013

The history of Israel–EU relations has received considerable scholarly attention. The conventional starting point for this history is almost invariably April 1958, when Israel became the third country in the world to request the establishment of a diplomatic mission in Brussels. The background and the lead up to that request, however, have been largely neglected. The article seeks to fill this scholarly lacuna by relating the hitherto untold story of Israel's exploration in 1957 of the possibility of obtaining full economic and political EEC membership. A centrepiece of the article is the revelation of the 1957 clandestine meeting(s) between Shimon Peres, then director general of the Israeli Ministry of Defence and special envoy of Prime Minister David Ben‐Gurion, and Jean Monnet, in which the two discussed possible full Israeli membership in the EEC. The article is based on some newly revealed archival documents and interviews with former high‐ranking Israeli officials.
Regional Authority, Transnational Lobbying and the Allocation of Structural Funds in the European Union
Authors: Chalmers Adam William
Published: June 2013

The allocation of European Union (EU) structural funds is subject to fierce regional lobbying. This article examines the extent to which regions with greater political authority are better able to lobby for funds than their weaker counterparts. Existing research acknowledging the importance of regional authority in these processes has used inadequate indicators. This analysis, drawing on the Regional Authority Index, is the first to use regional‐level data disaggregating between regional authority as self‐rule and shared‐rule. It also uses data that measure the lobbying capacity of regions' Brussels‐based lobbying offices. Controlling for a battery of competing and control variables, Tobit regression analyses of 181 regions receiving funds in the 2007–13 period suggest that regional authority expressed as shared‐rule, but not self‐rule, has a significant impact on the allocation of structural funds in the EU.
Prevalence of being underweight and overweight and obesity at diagnosis in UK patients with childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia 1985–2002
Authors: Aldhafiri F. K. , McColl J. H. , Reilly J. J.
Published: June 2013

Background

Being underweight or overweight and obesity at diagnosis may all worsen prognosis in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), although no studies have estimated the prevalence of an unhealthy weight status at diagnosis in large representative samples using contemporary definitions of weight status based on body mass index (BMI) for age.

Methods

The present study comprised a retrospective study that aimed to estimate prevalence of being underweight and overweight and obesity at diagnosis for patients with childhood ALL on three successive UK treatment trials: UKALL X (1985–1990; n = 1033), UKALL XI (1990–1997; n = 2031), UKALL 97/99 (1997–2002; n = 898).The BMI for age was used to define weight status with both UK 1990 BMI for age reference data and the Cole‐International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) definitions.

Results

The prevalence of being underweight was 6% in the most recent trial for which data were available. The prevalence of being overweight and obesity was 35% in the most recent trial when expressed using Cole‐IOTF definitions and 41% when expressed relative to UK 1990 reference data.

Conclusions

Even with highly conservative estimates, >40% of all UK patients with ALL were underweight, overweight or obese at diagnosis in the most recent trial for which UK data are available (UKALL 97/99, 1997–2002).
Systematic review of knowledge, confidence and education in nutritional genomics for students and professionals in nutrition and dietetics
Authors: Wright O. R. L.
Published: June 2013

Background

This review examines knowledge and confidence of nutrition and dietetics professionals in nutritional genomics and evaluates the teaching strategies in this field within nutrition and dietetics university programmes and professional development courses internationally.

Methods

A systematic search of 10 literature databases was conducted from January 2000 to December 2012 to identify original research. Any studies of either nutrition and/or dietetics students or dietitians/nutritionists investigating current levels of knowledge or confidence in nutritional genomics, or strategies to improve learning and/or confidence in this area, were eligible.

Results

Eighteen articles (15 separate studies) met the inclusion criteria. Three articles were assessed as negative, eight as neutral and seven as positive according to the American Dietetics Association Quality Criteria Checklist. The overall ranking of evidence was low. Dietitians have low involvement, knowledge and confidence in nutritional genomics, and evidence for educational strategies is limited and methodologically weak.

Conclusions

There is a need to develop training pathways and material to up‐skill nutrition and/or dietetics students and nutrition and/or dietetics professionals in nutritional genomics through multidisciplinary collaboration with content area experts. There is a paucity of high quality evidence on optimum teaching strategies; however, methods promoting repetitive exposure to nutritional genomics material, problem‐solving, collaborative and case‐based learning are most promising for university and professional development programmes.
Factors impacting job satisfaction among nurses from a tertiary care centre
Authors: Kaddourah Bayan T , Khalidi Aziza , Abu‐Shaheen Amani K , Al‐Tannir Mohamad A
Published: June 2013

Aims and objectives

To investigate the level of job satisfaction and the impact of personal characteristics and work environment on job satisfaction among nurses.

Background

Job satisfaction among nurses is of paramount importance to providers of health care because satisfied nurses appear to be endowed with the physical and emotional dexterity and the effort needed to perform their tasks that will enhance the quality of care provided to the patient.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

The study included nurses of both genders with at least one year of nursing experience, serving in all shifts of various clinical settings (n = 178 nurses). A modified version of measure of nurses' job satisfaction, developed by Whitley and Putzier, was used to assess the effect of personal characteristics profile and work environment on job satisfaction.

Results

A total of 140 nurses were (response rate = 78·7%) entered into final data analysis. The study showed that 111 participants (79·3%) were significantly satisfied in their current jobs. Furthermore, 65 nurses (46·4%) were not satisfied with their salaries, and almost half the nurses were not pleased with the nurse/patient ratio, autonomy and enough time to discuss problems with staff.

Conclusion

This study revealed that almost 50% of nurses are overworked, are unsatisfied with their salaries, and have limited autonomy and inadequate communication with superiors. Strategies must be formulated by hospital and government authorities to decrease workload and empower nurses in controlling their practice in order to retain nurses in their jobs.

Relevance to clinical practice

The management must provide positive leadership and understand the local issues that affect nurses in order to enhance retaining and avoid shortage. This can be reflected positively on nursing clinical practice and ultimately patient health status.
Niche divergence by deep‐sea octocorals in the genus Callogorgia across the continental slope of the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Quattrini Andrea M. , Georgian Samuel E. , Byrnes Luke , Stevens Alex , Falco Rosalia , Cordes Erik E.
Published: June 2013

Environmental variables that are correlated with depth have been suggested to be among the major forces underlying speciation in the deep sea. This study incorporated phylogenetics and ecological niche models (ENM) to examine whether congeneric species of Callogorgia (Octocorallia: Primnoidae) occupy different ecological niches across the continental slope of the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) and whether this niche divergence could be important in the evolution of these closely related species. Callogorgia americana americana, Callogorgia americana delta and Callogorgia gracilis were documented at 13 sites in the GoM (250–1000 m) from specimen collections and extensive video observations. On a first order, these species were separated by depth, with C. gracilis occurring at the shallowest sites, C. a. americana at mid‐depths and C. a. delta at the deepest sites. Callogorgia a. delta was associated with areas of increased seep activity, whereas C. gracilis and C. a. americana were associated with narrow, yet warmer, temperature ranges and did not occur near cold seeps. ENM background and identity tests revealed little to no overlap in ecological niches between species. Temporal calibration of the phylogeny revealed the formation of the Isthmus of Panama was a vicariance event that may explain some of the patterns of speciation within this genus. These results elucidate the potential mechanisms for speciation in the deep sea, emphasizing both bathymetric speciation and vicariance events in the evolution of a genus across multiple regions.
Practical care work and existential issues in palliative care: experiences of nursing assistants
Authors: Åhsberg Elizabeth , Carlsson Maria
Published: June 2013

Background

Despite increasing international interest in palliative care, little focus has been given to the role of nursing assistants, nor to research on existential issues.

Aims and objectives

To investigate nursing assistants' experiences of existential issues in palliative care.

Design

An explorative study using focus group discussions as data. Seven nursing assistants working in a palliative care unit and a nursing home participated on three occasions.

Method

Data were analysed using a content analysis approach.

Results

Two overlapping domains were extracted: practical care, interpreted in themes as meeting others, the patient's body and organisational boundaries; and existential issues, interpreted as the difficult part, the valuable part and death and dying. Communication seemed to be a theme central to both domains.

Conclusions

The results indicate that nursing assistants may give existential support in addition to practical aspects of care. The intimate interactions inherent in practical aspects of personal care create opportunities for meaningful conversations. Such conversations may constitute existential support for patients and a meaningful task for staff.

Implications for practice

It is important that nursing assistants are given an opportunity for further education and time for reflection. The simple intervention in the present study, that is, focus group discussions, gave them an opportunity to reflect upon their work. Education in gentle massage, for example, can also be suggested as it may improve non‐verbal contact and be beneficial for dying patients.
An Index‐Based Model for Determining the Investment Benchmark of Renewable Energy Projects in South Africa
Authors: Fay John , Kumar Umesh
Published: June 2013

In a globalised world, financial markets observe the optimal level of asset allocation and returns based on risk inherent in the economies. Whether public or private investors, they need to have an optimal return on their investment given the finite resources. In relatively new sectors like grid‐connected renewable energy, many investors face difficulty in assessing proper return, making them more averse to financing such projects, affecting transborder project development opportunities. In developing countries like South Africa, which has tremendous potential for renewable energy projects, an arbitrary choice of the required rate of return for project evaluations can negatively affect funding decisions. This paper explores an index‐based model to make fair estimates of the required equity benchmark internal rate of return (IRR) using financial markets observation for renewable energy projects in South Africa. The index‐based model is parsimonious and captures common macroeconomic factors. More specifically, it provides a simple and effective mechanism to calculate IRR for renewable energy projects given different gestation periods.
Antibody specific for the glycophorin A complex mediates intravenous immune globulin–resistant anemia in a murine model
Authors: Chen Xi , Ghaffar Hasan , Jen Chao‐Ching , Lazarus Alan H.
Published: June 2013

Background

Therapy for patients with autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AHA) remains a major challenge. Patients with glycophorin A (GPA)‐specific immunoglobulin G antibodies can have severe hemolysis, which may occur by mechanisms independent from traditional macrophage‐dependent Fcγ receptor (FcγR)‐mediated extravascular hemolysis. As intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) is known to display its beneficial effects in FcγR‐mediated cytopenias, and IVIG responses in AHA are inconsistent at best, we sought to gain insight into the mechanism of anemia by a GPA complex–specific monoclonal antibody (TER119) in a mouse model of immune hemolytic anemia and evaluate the therapeutic effect of IVIG.

Study Design and Methods

The anemic effect of the TER119 antibody was studied in vitro by incubation of mouse RBC with the antibody and in vivo by infusing the antibody into normal mice versus mice genetically deficient for the Fc receptor γ chain (Fcγ), complement C3, mice naturally deficient in complement C5, and splenectomized mice. IVIG efficacy in anemia was determined by treating mice with an intensive IVIG dosing regimen.

Results

The TER119‐mediated anemia was independent of classical FcγR‐, C3‐, and C5‐dependent mechanisms, but occurred by a mechanism consistent with RBC agglutination. In accordance with agglutination, the presence of the spleen accelerated the anemia observed but anemia could still occur in splenectomized mice. IVIG did not significantly affect the induction of anemia by TER119.

Conclusion

The mechanism of anemia induced by AHA‐causing antibodies may be an important factor to consider in the response to therapy with IVIG.
Herit-Ability
Authors: Flint Jonathan , Munafò Marcus
Published: June 2013

A genome-wide association study reveals possible variants that influence the complex behavior of educational attainment.

[Also see Report by

Rietveld
et al.

]
Agency Nixes deCODE's New Data-Mining Plan
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: June 2013

deCODE genetics cannot use 280,000 Icelanders' "in silico" genotypes without permission, the Data Protection Authority said.
Does Cloning Produce Better Embryonic Stem Cells?
Authors: Gura Trisha
Published: June 2013

The biologist who first made cloned human embryonic stem cells suggests they have advantages over another kind of stem cell.
Evaluation for a Novel Methicillin Resistance (
mecC
) Homologue in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolates Obtained from Injured Military Personnel
Authors: Ganesan Anuradha , Crawford Katrina , Mende Katrin , Murray Clinton K. , Lloyd Bradley , Ellis Michael , Tribble David R. , Weintrob Amy C.
Published: June 2013

A total of 102 methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) isolates collected from 50 injured service members (June 2009 to December 2011) at U.S. military treatment facilities were analyzed for the conventional
mecA
gene and
mecC
homologue by using standard PCR-based methods. The prevalence of the
mecC
homologue was zero.
Dendritic Cell Subtypes from Lymph Nodes and Blood Show Contrasted Gene Expression Programs upon Bluetongue Virus Infection
Authors: Ruscanu Suzana , Jouneau Luc , Urien Céline , Bourge Mickael , Lecardonnel Jérôme , Moroldo Marco , Loup Benoit , Dalod Marc , Elhmouzi-Younes Jamila , Bevilacqua Claudia , Hope Jayne , Vitour Damien , Zientara Stéphan , Meyer Gilles , Schwartz-Cornil Isabelle
Published: June 2013

Human and animal hemorrhagic viruses initially target dendritic cells (DCs). It has been proposed, but not documented, that both plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) and conventional DCs (cDCs) may participate in the cytokine storm encountered in these infections. In order to evaluate the contribution of DCs in hemorrhagic virus pathogenesis, we performed a genome-wide expression analysis during infection by Bluetongue virus (BTV), a double-stranded RNA virus that induces hemorrhagic fever in sheep and initially infects cDCs. Both pDCs and cDCs accumulated in regional lymph nodes and spleen during BTV infection. The gene response profiles were performed at the onset of the disease and markedly differed with the DC subtypes and their lymphoid organ location. An integrative knowledge-based analysis revealed that blood pDCs displayed a gene signature related to activation of systemic inflammation and permeability of vasculature. In contrast, the gene profile of pDCs and cDCs in lymph nodes was oriented to inhibition of inflammation, whereas spleen cDCs did not show a clear functional orientation. These analyses indicate that tissue location and DC subtype affect the functional gene expression program induced by BTV and suggest the involvement of blood pDCs in the inflammation and plasma leakage/hemorrhage during BTV infection in the real natural host of the virus. These findings open the avenue to target DCs for therapeutic interventions in viral hemorrhagic diseases.
Lack of Prion Infectivity in Fixed Heart Tissue from Patients with Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease or Amyloid Heart Disease
Authors: Priola Suzette A. , Ward Anne E. , McCall Sherman A. , Trifilo Matthew , Choi Young Pyo , Solforosi Laura , Williamson R. Anthony , Cruite Justin T. , Oldstone Michael B. A.
Published: June 2013

In most forms of prion disease, infectivity is present primarily in the central nervous system or immune system organs such as spleen and lymph node. However, a transgenic mouse model of prion disease has demonstrated that prion infectivity can also be present as amyloid deposits in heart tissue. Deposition of infectious prions as amyloid in human heart tissue would be a significant public health concern. Although abnormal disease-associated prion protein (PrP
Sc
) has not been detected in heart tissue from several amyloid heart disease patients, it has been observed in the heart tissue of a patient with sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (sCJD), the most common form of human prion disease. In order to determine whether prion infectivity can be found in heart tissue, we have inoculated formaldehyde fixed brain and heart tissue from two sCJD patients, as well as prion protein positive fixed heart tissue from two amyloid heart disease patients, into transgenic mice overexpressing the human prion protein. Although the sCJD brain samples led to clinical or subclinical prion infection and deposition of PrP
Sc
in the brain, none of the inoculated heart samples resulted in disease or the accumulation of PrP
Sc
. Thus, our results suggest that prion infectivity is not likely present in cardiac tissue from sCJD or amyloid heart disease patients.
Encephalomyocarditis Virus Disrupts Stress Granules, the Critical Platform for Triggering Antiviral Innate Immune Responses
Authors: Ng Chen Seng , Jogi Michihiko , Yoo Ji-Seung , Onomoto Koji , Koike Satoshi , Iwasaki Takuya , Yoneyama Mitsutoshi , Kato Hiroki , Fujita Takashi
Published: June 2013

In response to stress, cells induce ribonucleoprotein aggregates, termed stress granules (SGs). SGs are transient loci containing translation-stalled mRNA, which is eventually degraded or recycled for translation. Infection of some viruses, including influenza A virus with a deletion of nonstructural protein 1 (IAVΔNS1), induces SG-like protein aggregates. Previously, we showed that IAVΔNS1-induced SGs are required for efficient induction of type I interferon (IFN). Here, we investigated SG formation by different viruses using green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged Ras-Gap SH3 domain binding protein 1 (GFP-G3BP1) as an SG probe. HeLa cells stably expressing GFP-G3BP1 were infected with different viruses, and GFP fluorescence was monitored live with time-lapse microscopy. SG formations by different viruses was classified into 4 different patterns: no SG formation, stable SG formation, transient SG formation, and alternate SG formation. We focused on encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) infection, which exhibited transient SG formation. We found that EMCV disrupts SGs by cleavage of G3BP1 at late stages of infection (>8 h) through a mechanism similar to that used by poliovirus. Expression of a G3BP1 mutant that is resistant to the cleavage conferred persistent formation of SGs as well as an enhanced induction of IFN and other cytokines at late stages of infection. Additionally, knockdown of endogenous G3BP1 blocked SG formation with an attenuated induction of IFN and potentiated viral replication. Taken together, our findings suggest a critical role of SGs as an antiviral platform and shed light on one of the mechanisms by which a virus interferes with host stress and subsequent antiviral responses.
Patient experiences of an extended role in healthcare: comparing emergency care practitioners (ECPs) with usual providers in different emergency and urgent care settings
Authors: O'Keeffe Colin , Mason Suzanne , Knowles Emma
Published: June 2013

Background

This study compared patient experiences of care provided by emergency care practitioners (ECPs) and usual providers in different emergency and urgent care settings.

Methods

A self-completed postal questionnaire study as part of a pragmatic quasi experimental trial in five paired sites with intervention (ECP) services matched with control (usual provider) services.

Results

A greater percentage of ECP patients reported being very satisfied with overall care in all five pairs of sites. In three pairs, these percentage differences were statistically significant.

Conclusions

Users of ECP services were more likely to be highly satisfied with overall care than usual provider patients in the study settings.
Antibodies toTrichomonas vaginalissurface glycolipid
Authors: Bastida-Corcuera F D , Singh B N , Gray G C , Stamper P D , Davuluri M , Schlangen K , Corbeil R R , Corbeil L B
Published: June 2013

Background

Human trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted disease, yet immune responses are not well studied.

Methods

Since theTrichomonas vaginalislipophosphoglycan (TvLPG) is an important virulence factor, a bank of eight monoclonal antibodies was generated to define the antigen in clinical isolates. The TvLPG-specific antibody response of women who were culture positive (n=33) or negative (n=33) forT vaginalisinfection was determined by isotype-specific ELISA.

Results

The bank of monoclonal antibodies reacted with conserved surface TvLPG epitopes in 27 isolates from pregnant women at their first prenatal visit. Conserved TvLPG epitopes were shown to be surface exposed by immunofluorescence. Sera collected from the same patients at the same time were assayed for specific antibodies. Serum and vaginal secretions from 33T vaginalis-positive women had statistically higher IgG anti-TvLPG levels than age-matched and race-matched negative controls in the same clinical study (p<0.01). Vaginal IgA anti-TvLPG levels of the women with trichomoniasis were almost significantly higher than controls (p=0.055). Infected women with normal pregnancies had significantly higher vaginal IgG anti-TvLPG values than infected women with adverse outcomes of pregnancy.

Conclusions

These antibody responses show that infected women can respond to the conserved TvLPG antigen. Since antibodies to trichomonad surface LPG protect in a bovine model of trichomoniasis, the role of these antibodies in the human disease should be investigated.
Comparison of terazosin and prazosin for treatment of vesico‐urethral reflex dyssynergia in dogs
Authors: Haagsman A. N. , Kummeling A. , Moes M. E. , Mesu S. J. , Kirpensteijn J.
Published: June 2013

Nineteen dogs with vesico‐urethral reflex dyssynergia (VURD) were treated with prazosin or terazosin 0.5 mg/kg twice daily to compare efficacy and side effects. Dogs were referred because of signs of (partial) urethral obstruction. Physical examination, abdominal ultrasonography, urinalysis and a radiographic contrast study of bladder and urethra (urethrocystography) were routinely performed. If no mechanical causes of obstruction or disease of the distal urinary tract were observed, the diagnosis VURD was presumed and the dogs were included in our study. Follow‐up information was obtained from owners or referring veterinarians. Significantly more side effects were seen in the dogs treated with terazosin (n=14; 93 per cent) compared with the dogs treated with prazosin (n=5; 20 per cent; P=0.002). Effects of the treatment were comparable between prazosin and terazosin. Labradors and dogs that were castrated surgically had a significant better survival (P<0.01) compared with other breeds and animals that were castrated chemically. There was a moderate to good effect in 60 per cent of the dogs treated with prazosin, and in 64 per cent of the dogs treated with terazosin.
DARK ENERGY WITH RIGID VOIDS VERSUS RELATIVISTIC VOIDS ALONE
Authors: ROUKEMA BOUDEWIJN F.
Published: June 2013

The standard model of cosmology is dominated — at the present epoch — by dark energy. Its voids are rigid and Newtonian within a relativistic background. The model prevents them from becoming hyperbolic. Observations of rapid velocity flows out of voids are normally interpreted within the standard model that is rigid in comoving coordinates, instead of allowing the voids' density parameter to drop below critical and their curvature to become negative. It is time to advance beyond 19th century physics and relegate dark energy back to the "no significant evidence" box.
The PAK system links Rho GTPase signaling to thrombin-mediated platelet activation
Authors: Aslan Joseph E. , Baker Sandra M. , Loren Cassandra P. , Haley Kristina M. , Itakura Asako , Pang Jiaqing , Greenberg Daniel L. , David Larry L. , Manser Ed , Chernoff Jonathan , McCarty Owen J. T.
Published: June 2013

Regulation of the platelet actin cytoskeleton by the Rho family of small GTPases is essential for the proper maintenance of hemostasis. However, little is known about how intracellular platelet activation from Rho GTPase family members, including Rac, Cdc42, and Rho, translate into changes in platelet actin structures. To better understand how Rho family GTPases coordinate platelet activation, we identified platelet proteins associated with Rac1, a Rho GTPase family member, and actin regulatory protein essential for platelet hemostatic function. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed that upon platelet activation with thrombin, Rac1 associates with a set of effectors of the p21-activated kinases (PAKs), including GIT1, βPIX, and guanine nucleotide exchange factor GEFH1. Platelet activation by thrombin triggered the PAK-dependent phosphorylation of GIT1, GEFH1, and other PAK effectors, including LIMK1 and Merlin. PAK was also required for the thrombin-mediated activation of the MEK/ERK pathway, Akt, calcium signaling, and phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure. Inhibition of PAK signaling prevented thrombin-induced platelet aggregation and blocked platelet focal adhesion and lamellipodia formation in response to thrombin. Together, these results demonstrate that the PAK signaling system is a key orchestrator of platelet actin dynamics, linking Rho GTPase activation downstream of thrombin stimulation to PAK effector function, MAP kinase activation, calcium signaling, and PS exposure in platelets.
Enhanced NMDA receptor-mediated intracellular calcium signaling in magnocellular neurosecretory neurons in heart failure rats
Authors: Stern Javier E. , Potapenko Evgeniy S.
Published: June 2013

An enhanced glutamate excitatory function within the hypothalamic supraoptic and paraventricluar nuclei is known to contribute to increased neurosecretory and presympathetic neuronal activity, and hence, neurohumoral activation, during heart failure (HF). Still, the precise mechanisms underlying enhanced glutamate-driven neuronal activity in HF remain to be elucidated. Here, we performed simultaneous electrophysiology and fast confocal Ca2+imaging to determine whether altered N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor-mediated changes in intracellular Ca2+levels (NMDA-ΔCa2+) occurred in hypothalamic magnocellular neurosecretory cells (MNCs) in HF rats. We found that activation of NMDA receptors resulted in a larger ΔCa2+in MNCs from HF when compared with sham rats. The enhanced NMDA-ΔCa2+was neither dependent on the magnitude of the NMDA-mediated current (voltage clamp) nor on the degree of membrane depolarization or firing activity evoked by NMDA (current clamp). Differently from NMDA receptor activation, firing activity evoked by direct membrane depolarization resulted in similar changes in intracellular Ca2+in sham and HF rats. Taken together, our results support a relatively selective alteration of intracellular Ca2+homeostasis and signaling following activation of NMDA receptors in MNCs during HF. The downstream functional consequences of such altered ΔCa2+signaling during HF are discussed.
Multi-Input Converter with MPPT Feature for Wind-PV Power Generation System
Authors: Shen Chih-Lung , Yang Shih-Hsueh
Published: June 2013

A multi-input converter (MIC) to process wind-PV power is proposed, designed, analyzed, simulated, and implemented. The MIC cannot only process solar energy but deal with wind power, of which structure is derived from forward-type DC/DC converter to step-down/up voltage for charger systems, DC distribution applications, or grid connection. The MIC comprises an upper modified double-ended forward, a lower modified double-ended forward, a common output inductor, and a DSP-based system controller. The two modified double-ended forwards can operate individually or simultaneously so as to accommodate the variation of the hybrid renewable energy under different atmospheric conditions. While the MIC operates at interleaving mode, better performance can be achieved and volume also is reduced. The proposed MIC is capable of recycling the energy stored in the leakage inductance and obtaining high step-up output voltage. In order to draw maximum power from wind turbine and PV panel, perturb-and-observe method is adopted to achieve maximum power point tracking (MPPT) feature. The MIC is constructed, analyzed, simulated, and tested. Simulations and hardware measurements have demonstrated the feasibility and functionality of the proposed multi-input converter.
Characterization of Suicidal Behaviour with Self-Organizing Maps
Authors: Leiva-Murillo José M. , López-Castromán Jorge , Baca-García Enrique , Consortium EURECA
Published: June 2013

The study of the variables involved in suicidal behavior is important from a social, medical, and economical point of view. Given the high number of potential variables of interest, a large population of subjects must be analysed in order to get conclusive results. In this paper, we describe a method based on self-organizing maps (SOMs) for finding the most relevant variables even when their relation to suicidal behavior is strongly nonlinear. We have applied the method to a cohort with more than 8,000 subjects and 600 variables and discovered four groups of variables involved in suicidal behavior. According to the results, there are four main groups of risk factors that characterize the population of suicide attempters: mental disorders, alcoholism, impulsivity, and childhood abuse. The identification of specific subpopulations of suicide attempters is consistent with current medical knowledge and may provide a new avenue of research to improve the management of suicidal cases.
Electron Momentum Density and Phase Transition in ZnS
Authors: Munjal N. , Mishra M. C. , Sharma G. , Sharma B. K.
Published: June 2013

The electron momentum density distribution and phase transition in ZnS are reported in this paper. The calculations are performed on the basis of density functional theory (DFT) based on the linear combination of atomic orbitals (LCAO) method. To compare the theoretical Compton profile, the measurement on polycrystalline ZnS has been made using a Compton spectrometer employing 59.54 keV gamma rays. The spherically averaged theoretical Compton profile is in agreement with the measurement. On the basis of equal valence-electron-density Compton profiles, it is found that ZnS is less covalent as compared to ZnSe. The present study suggests zincblende (ZB) to rocksalt (RS) phase transition at 13.7 GPa. The calculated transition pressure is found in good agreement with the previous investigations.