bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement of macrophage marker in hyperhaemolytic transfusion reaction: a case report
Authors: Win N. , Lee E. , Needs M. , Chia L.‐W. , Stasi R.
Published: January 2012

Background: Hyperhaemolytic transfusion reaction (HHTR) has been well described in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). It is characterised by a decrease in haemoglobin concentration to levels below those before transfusion and a fall in the absolute reticulocyte count. As red blood cells (RBC) alloantibodies are typically not detected in post‐transfusion samples in acute forms of HHTR, we have previously proposed that both the transfused and autologous RBCs cells (HbSS/reticulocytes) are destroyed by activated macrophages.

Case reports: We report a patient with SCD who presented with vaso‐occlusive sickle cell crisis and developed a severe HHTR attributable to anti‐Fy3. In addition to the usual supportive measures, the patient was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and steroids. Serum ferritin levels were measured as an aspecific marker of macrophage activation.

Results: Steroids and IVIG were effective in managing HHTR. Ferritin levels were high at the time of haemolysis, (>10000 µg L−1) whereas recovery and cessation of haemolysis correlated with a decrease in ferritin levels.

Conclusion: Serum ferritin values >10 000 µg L−1 are considered pathognomic for conditions characterised by abnormal macrophage activation. In our case, serum ferritin levels correlate well with the disease activity and clinical response. This further supports our previous proposal that the activated macrophages play an important role in HHTR. Serum ferritin is a nonspecific marker of inflammation. A rapid specific bio‐marker to measure the activity of macrophages in SCD in HHTR is desirable, and this area warrants further investigation.
The Distribution of Phytoplasmas in Myanmar
Authors: Win Nang Kyu Kyu , Jung Hee‐Young
Published: January 2012

Phytoplasma‐infected plants with symptoms of general yellowing, stunting, little leaves, white leaves, virescence, phyllody and witches’ broom growth of axillary shoots were collected from various plant species in Myanmar during 2010 and 2011. Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), sequence analysis of the PCR‐amplified 16S ribosomal RNA gene and phylogenetic analyses were used to identify and classify the phytoplasmas. Based on RFLP and sequence analyses, 13 isolates were identified and classified into one subgroup of 16SrI‐B, two subgroups of 16SrII‐A and 16SrII‐C, and one of 16SrXI group phytoplasmas. Phylogenetic analyses also supported the relationship of Myanmar isolates with the three 16Sr groups. This study showed that at least three 16Sr groups exist and 16SrII group phytoplasmas are widely distributed in Myanmar.
Identification of mutations in OASA1 gene from a gamma‐irradiated rice mutant population
Authors: Chun Jae Buhm , Ha Bo‐Keun , Jang Duk‐Soo , Song Mira , Lee Kyung Jun , Kim Jin‐Baek , Kim Sang Hoon , Kang Si‐Yong , Lee Geung‐Joo , Seo Yong Weon , Kim Dong Sub
Published: January 2012

With 5 figures and 1 table

One thousand three hundred and fifty homologous rice M8 mutant lines resistant to 5‐methyltryptophan, a tryptophan analogue, were selected from embryogenic calli irradiated with 30–120 Gy of gamma rays. The mutant rice would be compromised in tryptophan homoeostasis in the cell if a negative feedback by anthranilate synthase (AS) in tryptophan biosynthesis was altered by gamma irradiation, consequently causing tryptophan over‐accumulation. Therefore, the correlation between traits of over‐accumulated tryptophan and the alteration of AS by mutagenesis including single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) would enable the visualization and selection of over‐accumulated mutant lines from the rice mutant population. Targeting Induced Local Lesions IN Genome analysis with five fluorescent‐labelled primer sets covering the OASA1 locus resulted in the selection of three rice mutant lines, MRVII‐9, MRVII‐33 and MRVII‐37. The tryptophan contents in the seed storage protein of the three mutant lines were elevated when compared with the wild‐type cv. ‘Dongan’. Genomic DNA of OASA1 was re‐sequenced and validated at the SNP and other polymorphism sites. Three mutant lines (MRVII‐9, MRVII‐33 and MRVII‐37) not only contained more than five SNP sites in the total regions of OASA1 gene, but also contained SNPs in coding regions that resulted in amino acid changes such as E241G, A560G and V495F/S496F, respectively. The SNPs, which resulted in amino acid changes, may affect the enhanced tryptophan content in the seed storage protein. These different features could utilize the selection of mutant lines with over‐accumulated tryptophan from large rice mutant populations.
Differences in outcomes between cholecalciferol and ergocalciferol supplementation in veterans with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Youssef Dima , Bailey Beth , Atia Antwan , El‐Abbassi Adel , Manning Todd , Peiris Alan N
Published: January 2012

Aim:  Vitamin D deficiency is a global health issue associated with increased health‐care costs, and could play a role in the pathogenesis and management of inflammatory bowel disease. Prior studies show a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in veterans with inflammatory bowel disease. We aimed to examine the outcome differences in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, comparing treatment with ergocalciferol to cholecalciferol.

Methods:  A retrospective review of electronic medical records of patients with inflammatory bowel disease at a Veterans Affairs Medical Facility in the Southeastern United States was carried out. Those with at least one serum 25(OH) vitamin D level were included. Initial and follow‐up vitamin D values were recorded. The type of vitamin D supplementation, whether cholecalciferol or ergocalciferol, was documented. Costs in the year after measurement of vitamin D were divided into separate inpatient and outpatient categories.

Results:  Veterans (n = 108) with ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease and an available 25(OH) vitamin D level were studied. There were differences in follow‐up vitamin D levels; those who received weekly ergocalciferol had higher subsequent levels than those who received cholecalciferol, especially at a second follow up, although differences did not achieve statistical significance. However, those who received vitamin D3 were less likely to use laboratory, pharmacy, radiology and fee‐based services, and had lower laboratory and pharmacy costs.

Conclusions:  Our data suggest that cholecalciferol replacement might improve outcomes to a greater extent than ergocalciferol, and might be better in limiting health‐care costs and expenses in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12: 475–480.
Connection between hyperemesis gravidarum, jaundice or liver dysfunction, and biliary sludge
Authors: Matsubara Shigeki , Kuwata Tomoyuki , Kamozawa Chihiro , Sakamoto Yuki , Suzuki Mitsuaki , Tamada Kiichi
Published: January 2012

Jaundice in hyperemesis gravidarum may cause physicians to suspect several underlying diseases. Jaundice appeared in a woman with hyperemesis gravidarum and an ultrasound revealed biliary sludge. Hydration concomitantly ameliorated the symptoms, jaundice and the biliary sludge. Another woman with hyperemesis gravidarum showed elevated aminotransferases, with biliary sludge also being present. Hydration ameliorated the symptoms and liver dysfunction, and reduced the total bilirubin level. Biliary sludge appeared, but was ameliorated according to the symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum.
Mucinous borderline‐like tumor of the gastrointestinal type arising from mature cystic teratoma of the ovary and its immunohistochemical cytokeratin and mucin phenotype
Authors: Nakatsuka Shin‐ichi , Wakimoto Tetsu , Ozaki Kimiaki , Nagano Teruaki , Kimura Hayato , Nakajo Kazuya , Ito Kimihiko
Published: January 2012

Malignant transformation is rarely seen in the disease course of mature cystic teratoma (MCT) of the ovary. Adenocarcinoma arising from MCT is especially rare. We herein present the case of a premenopausal woman with a mucinous borderline‐like tumor arising from a MCT. Based on the histological transition between the borderline‐like tumor and gastrointestinal elements of the MCT, we consider that the tumor derived from teratomatous gastrointestinal epithelium. Immunohistochemistry showed that the proliferating mucinous cells were diffusely positive for cytokeratin 20 and partially positive for cytokeratin 7. MUC5AC was partially positive, whereas MUC2 and MUC6 were positive in a small number of tumor cells. The immunophenotype of cytokeratins and mucins in the present case was compatible with malignant transformation of the teratomatous gastrointestinal epithelium.
Incidental appendectomy – standard or unnecessary additional trauma in surgery for colorectal cancer? A retrospective analysis of histological findings in 380 specimens
Authors: Exner R. , Sachsenmaier M. , Horvath Z. , Stift A.
Published: January 2012

Background  Incidental appendectomy is a frequent but non‐standard procedure during surgery for colorectal cancer. Incidental appendectomy during colorectal resections is performed at the discretion of the operating surgeon.

Method  This retrospective study used data from 1352 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for colorectal cancer between 1993 and 2009 at the Medical University of Vienna. The authors evaluated histopathological results of appendices removed incidentally. In addition, complications and costs of the additional intervention were analyzed.

Results  Appendectomy had been performed in 314 (23.22%) patients because of appendicitis. Incidental appendectomy had been performed in 380 (28.11%) patients: 86 (22.63%) had a histologically completely normal appendix, a pathologic alteration was found in 289 (76.05%) and a neoplasm was found in seven (1.84%). No complications occurred from the additional surgical procedure. The costs and time effort were negligible.

Conclusion  Incidental appendectomy is a safe procedure and can be integrated into surgery for colorectal carcinoma to avoid future complications. Pathological findings of the appendix, including neoplasm, are frequent but the clinical relevance remains questionable.
An exploratory randomized controlled trial comparing telephone and hospital follow‐up after treatment for colorectal cancer
Authors: Beaver K. , Campbell M. , Williamson S. , Procter D. , Sheridan J. , Heath J. , Susnerwala S.
Published: January 2012

Aim  Following treatment for colorectal cancer it is common practice for patients to attend hospital clinics at regular intervals for routine monitoring, although debate persists on the benefits of this approach. Nurse‐led telephone follow‐up is effective in meeting information and psycho‐social needs in other patient groups. We explored the potential benefits of nurse‐led telephone follow‐up for colorectal cancer patients.

Method  Sixty‐five patients were randomized to either telephone or hospital follow‐up in an exploratory randomized trial.

Results  The telephone intervention was deliverable in clinical practice and acceptable to patients and health professionals. Seventy‐five per cent of eligible patients agreed to randomization. High levels of satisfaction were evident in both study groups. Appointments in the hospital group were shorter (median 14.0 min, range 2.3–58.0) than appointments in the telephone group (median 28.9 min, range 6.1–48.3). Patients in the telephone arm were more likely to raise concerns during consultations.

Conclusion  Historical approaches to follow‐up unsupported by evidence of effectiveness and efficiency are not sustainable. Telephone follow‐up by specialist nurses may be a feasible option. A main trial comparing hospital and telephone follow‐up is justified, although consideration needs to be given to trial design and practical issues related to the availability of specialist nurses at study locations.
Capital Is Not Enough: Innovation in Developing Economies
Authors: Bradley Steven W. , McMullen Jeffery S. , Artz Kendall , Simiyu Edward M.
Published: January 2012

abstract

Economic development and social entrepreneurship often conceive of poverty as a resource allocation problem in which a lack of capital prevents the poor from increasing their income through entrepreneurship. This allocative view, however, represents only one possible approach to conceptualizing entrepreneurial opportunity. The alternative discovery‐ and creativity‐based views place a greater emphasis on innovation which implies that superior ideas are also needed if poverty is to be reduced through firm performance. Drawing from a survey of 201 small business owners involved in a microcredit programme in Nairobi, Kenya, we find that the financial, social, human capital–performance relationships are mediated in part by innovation. Further, we find that differentiation‐related innovations lead to better firm performance than novelty‐related innovations.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the Base of the Pyramid: A Recipe for Inclusive Growth or Social Exclusion?
Authors: Hall Jeremy , Matos Stelvia , Sheehan Lorn , Silvestre Bruno
Published: January 2012

abstract

Policy makers often see entrepreneurship as a panacea for inclusive growth in underdeveloped ‘Base of the Pyramid’ (BOP) regions, but it may also lead to unanticipated negative outcomes such as crime and social exclusion. Our objective is to improve the understanding of how entrepreneurship policies can lead to socially inclusive growth at the BOP. Drawing on data collected from Brazilian tourism destinations with varying entrepreneurship, innovation, and social inclusion policies, we argue that weak institutions coupled with alert entrepreneurs encourage destructive outcomes, especially if entrepreneurship policies are based solely on economic indicators. Policies addressing both economic and social perspectives may foster more productive entrepreneurial outcomes, albeit at a more constrained economic pace. The study extends the related BOP, entrepreneurship, global value chain, and sustainable tourism literatures by examining the poor as entrepreneurs, the role of local innovation, and how entrepreneurship policies generate different social impacts within poor communities.
Morphological Family Size Effects in Young First and Second Language Learners: Evidence of Cross‐Language Semantic Activation in Visual Word Recognition
Authors: de Zeeuw Marlies , Verhoeven Ludo , Schreuder Robert
Published: January 2012

This study examined to what extent young second language (L2) learners showed morphological family size effects in L2 word recognition and whether the effects were grade‐level related. Turkish‐Dutch bilingual children (L2) and Dutch (first language, L1) children from second, fourth, and sixth grade performed a Dutch lexical decision task on words with varying family sizes. The responses of both L1 and L2 children were more accurate (in second grade) and faster (in fourth and sixth grades) for words with a large family than for words with a small family, even though the L2 children had a smaller vocabulary size in Dutch than the L1 children. These findings show how the spreading of semantic activation across languages can influence word recognition in L2 learners.
CAG repeat length in androgen receptor gene is not associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Bruson A. , Sambataro F. , Querin G. , D’Ascenzo C. , Palmieri A. , Agostini J. , Gaiani A. , Angelini C. , Galbiati M. , Poletti A. , Pennuto M. , Pegoraro E. , Clementi M. , Soraru G.
Published: January 2012

Background:  Epidemiological and clinical studies show higher prevalence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in males than in females and more severe lesions in androgen receptor (AR)‐expressing tissues. The AR gene contains a polymorphic CAG trinucleotide repeat, whose expansion over a certain threshold is toxic to motor neurons, causing spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA).

Purpose and methods:  We tested the hypothesis that the AR CAG repeat linked to SBMA is a risk factor for ALS. We analyzed AR CAG expansions in 336 patients with ALS and 100 controls.

Results:  We found a negative association of AR CAG expansions with ALS susceptibility, clinical presentation, and survival.

Conclusions:  Our findings do not support a role of the AR CAG repeat length in ALS.
Blockade of the high‐affinity noradrenaline transporter (NET) by the selective 5‐HT reuptake inhibitor escitalopram: an in vivo microdialysis study in mice
Authors: Nguyen Hai T , Guiard Bruno P , Bacq Alexandre , David Denis J , David Indira , Quesseveur Gaël , Gautron Sophie , Sanchez Connie , Gardier Alain M
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Escitalopram, the S(+)‐enantiomer of citalopram is the most selective 5‐HT reuptake inhibitor approved. Although all 5‐HT selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) increase extracellular levels of 5‐HT ([5‐HT]ext). some also enhance, to a lesser extent, extracellular levels of noradrenaline ([NA]ext). However, the mechanisms by which SSRIs activate noradrenergic transmission in the brain remain to be determined.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH This study examined the effects of escitalopram, on both [5‐HT]ext and [NA]ext in the frontal cortex (FCx) of freely moving wild‐type (WT) and mutant mice lacking the 5‐HT transporter (SERT−/−) by using intracerebral microdialysis. We explored the possibilities that escitalopram enhances [NA]ext, either by a direct mechanism involving the inhibition of the low‐ or high‐affinity noradrenaline transporters, or by an indirect mechanism promoted by [5‐HT]ext elevation. The forced swim test (FST) was used to investigate whether enhancing cortical [5‐HT]ext and/or [NA]ext affected the antidepressant‐like activity of escitalopram.

KEY RESULTS In WT mice, a single systemic administration of escitalopram produced a significant increase in cortical [5‐HT]ext and [NA]ext. As expected, escitalopram failed to increase cortical [5‐HT]ext in SERT−/− mice, whereas its neurochemical effects on [NA]ext persisted in these mutants. In WT mice subjected to the FST, escitalopram increased swimming parameters without affecting climbing behaviour. Finally, escitalopram, at relevant concentrations, failed to inhibit cortical noradrenaline and 5‐HT uptake mediated by low‐affinity monoamine transporters.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These experiments suggest that escitalopram enhances, although moderately, cortical [NA]extin vivo by a direct mechanism involving the inhibition of the high‐affinity noradrenaline transporter (NET).
Critical care patients' experience of the helmet continuous positive airway pressure
Authors: Dimech Andrew
Published: January 2012

Background: Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a common treatment modality for acute respiratory failure (ARF) in critical care. Historically, a tight‐fitting mask is used to provide respiratory support. This however is not without risks to the patient. The helmet CPAP is a new product that provides the same treatment with a different method of delivery. There is minimal evidence to date explaining the patient's experience of the new helmet modality.

Aims and objectives: The aim of this research study is to explore critical care patient's experience of helmet CPAP.

Design: A qualitative approach was taken utilizing descriptive phenomenological methodology. In order to obtain rich data, six interviews with cues provided the platform for data generation and collection. A thematic framework was utilized with emergent themes manually analysed using a constant comparative technique to express the experiences or phenomena of a particular event or experiences.

Findings/results: The overall experience was unique to each patient. The patients entrusted the health care team which made the experience more tolerable. Paradoxical themes were experienced during treatment. The themes included entrapment, confusion, helping me breathe, liberation, challenges, apprehension, relief, trust and endurance. The desire to survive the acute illness proved to be a driving factor.

Conclusion: The study has provided an insight into the patient's experience of helmet CPAP in the critical care setting. The findings have provided a basis for policy and guideline development. It will also assist in developing future patient focused care.
DESCRIPTION OF A NEW NAVICULOID DIATOM GENUS MORENEIS GEN. NOV. (BACILLARIOPHYCEAE) FROM SAND FLATS IN KOREA1
Authors: Park Jinsoon , Koh Chul‐Hwan , Khim Jong Seong , Ohtsuka Taisuke , Witkowski Andrzej
Published: January 2012

This article describes a new diatom genus Moreneis from the Yellow Sea sand flats on the west coast of Korea. The new genus is characterized by a unique combination of morphological characteristics, including the shape of the plastids, which have not been previously observed in diatoms. The valve morphology resembles other genera belonging to Lyrellaceae, within which we place this genus. In terms of areolae structure, Moreneis resembles Petroneis and Placoneis; however, it differs from both genera with respect to the raphe system and plastid shape. Cells of Moreneis spp. have a single large plastid appressed to the girdle of the secondary side of the valve, with two lobes extended toward the primary side of the valve. Furthermore, the unique feature of Moreneis frustules is the raphe, which has both external central and apical endings bent in opposite directions. We differentiated four taxa, which we describe as new for science. However, based on our findings, several established species from Navicula should also be formally transferred to Moreneis, including N. alpha Cleve, N. besarensis Giffen, N. epsilon Cleve, N. menaiana Hendey, N. polae Heiden, and N. quadri‐undulata F. Meister. Analysis of published data revealed that species belonging to Moreneis are numerous in tropical marine littoral waters, and in moderate climate zones, especially in the western Pacific, with only a few species occurring in the Mediterranean and Atlantic.
BLOOM OF THE GIANT ANADYOMENE GIGANTODICTYON SP. NOV. (ANADYOMENACEAE, CLADOPHORALES) FROM THE OUTER SLOPE (25–50 m) OF THE BELIZE BARRIER REEF1
Authors: Littler Mark M. , Littler Diane S.
Published: January 2012

A giant form of Anadyomene, most similar to Anadyomene pavonina (J. Agardh) Wille, a rare and diminutive alga endemic to Florida, appeared as up to 10 m long net‐like strands covering 10%–80% of a 0.5 km region of the 25–50 m deep Belizean outer reef slope where none had been present up to 12 months earlier. This new species, described herein as Anadyomene gigantodictyon Littler et D. S. Littler, is characterized by a unistratose blade or cluster of blades formed by the polychotomous branching of uniseriate veins, with the interstices, or spaces between the veins, completely or partially filled with cells that are smaller than those of the veins, with cylindrical to ovate cells. The cells at mid‐blade are 1.7–2.0 mm in length and 0.2–0.3 mm diameter; interstitial cells are parallel and not juxtaposed. All cells are joined in one plane and form species‐specific, fan‐shaped patterns with secondary interstitial cells loosely or tightly woven.
Effects of the Iron Content and Redox State on the Structure of Sodium Borosilicate Glasses: A Raman, Mössbauer and Boron K‐Edge XANES Spectroscopy Study
Authors: Cochain B. , Neuville D. R. , Henderson G. S. , McCammon C. A. , Pinet O. , Richet P.
Published: January 2012

The structure of iron‐bearing sodium borosilicate glasses with up to 10 mol% “FeO” has been investigated in the range 0.15 < Fe3+/ΣFe < 0.95. According to Mössbauer spectroscopy, Fe3+ and Fe2+ are mainly in tetrahedral and octahedral coordination, respectively, although other coordination states exist for both cations. From XANES experiments, we conclude that increasing Fe content and varying redox states have only a minor effect on the relative proportions of BO3 and BO4 units. In Raman spectra, a decrease of the proportion of BO4 species present in danburite‐like units (Na2O·B2O3·2SiO2) is found upon increasing iron content and oxidizing state. Whereas the insensitivity of the overall boron speciation to iron content and redox state points to weak interactions between boron and iron, the changes affecting BO4 species do indicate a more subtle interplay between Fe3+ and the other tetrahedrally coordinated cations (Si,B) because of the competition between tetrahedral Fe3+ and B3+ for charge compensation by Na+.
2‐2 Structured Magnetoelectric Composites by Aerosol Deposition
Authors: Oh Nam‐Kun , Han Guifang , Yoon Woon‐Ha , Choi Jong‐Jin , Hahn Byung‐Dong , Kim Jong‐Woo , Ahn Cheol‐Woo , Choi Joon Hwan , Park Dong‐Soo , Kim Jeong‐Joo , Ryu Jungho
Published: January 2012

Using aerosol deposition, 2‐2 layered structured magnetoelectric (ME) composites were fabricated. Almost fully dense, polycrystalline Pb(Zr,Ti)O3‐based piezoelectric thick films with thickness of over 20 μm were fabricated on the sintered CoFe2O4 (CFO) magnetostrictive ceramics. Although the sintered CFO ceramics were not fully dense, the aerosol deposited piezoelectric films showed good adhesion and there were no noticeable cracks. The piezoelectric films thus obtained showed not only dielectric, ferroelectric, and piezoelectric properties, but also superior ME characteristics with a voltage coefficient of over 130 mV/cm·Oe, especially the PZT–PZN films.
Is chorioamnionitis harmful for the brain of preterm infants? A clinical overview
Authors: YLIJOKI MILLA , EKHOLM EEVA , HAATAJA LEENA , LEHTONEN LIISA ,   the PIPARI study group
Published: January 2012

Background.Chorioamnionitis is an important risk factor underlying preterm delivery, and it has also been suggested that it is associated with brain lesions and deviant neurological development in prematurely born infants.Objective. To evaluate the possible effects of chorioamnionitis on the brain of preterm infants.Design. A systematic review.Methods. A systematic database search was performed to identify all original articles published until 5 October 2011 evaluating the association between histological and/or clinical chorioamnionitis and brain lesions and/or neurological development in preterm infants. Altogether, 609 potentially relevant articles were identified, of which 84 original articles were included.Results. The majority of the articles do not support the hypothesis that chorioamnionitis poses a direct risk on the central nervous system of preterm infants. The full course of antenatal steroids seems to further reduce the adverse effects of inflammation on the developing nervous system.Conclusions. It seems that there are both benefits and risks with regard to the effects of chorioamnionitis on the brain development of preterm infants. It is plausible that inflammation enhances maturation of the preterm infant and therefore has protective effects balancing its potential harmful effects. We conclude that chorioamnionitis does not carry higher risks for the brain of preterm infants than other underlying pathologies behind preterm delivery.
Effects of Acupuncture on LIF and IL‐12 in Rats of Implantation Failure
Authors: Gui Juan , Xiong Fan , Yang Wei , Li Jing , Huang Guangying
Published: January 2012

Problem

Acupuncture has a positive effect on implantation obstacle, but the mechanism is still not clear, so the aim of the experiment is to explore the possible role that acupuncture plays in implantation.

Method of study

Early pregnant rats were randomized into normal group (N), group treated with mifepristone (M), acupuncture treatment group (A), and progestin treatment group (P). The model of blastocyst implantation obstacle in groups M, A, and P was established with mifepristone. Bilateral ‘Housanli’ and ‘Sanyinjiao’ were needled in group A. The expression of interleukin (IL)‐12, leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), LIFR protein, and mRNA in endometrium were detected.

Results

Positivity of the protein expression of IL‐12, LIF, and LIFR in the endometrium was significantly higher in groups N, A, and P; positivity of the mRNA of IL‐12 and LIF in the endometrium was significantly higher in groups N, A, and P.

Conclusion

Acupuncture could improve the poor receptive state of endometrium by promoting LIF and IL‐12 secretion to improve blastocyst implantation.
Serum sTREM‐1 (Soluble Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid Cells‐1) Associates Negatively with Embryo Quality in Infertility Patients
Authors: Haller‐Kikkatalo Kadri , Sarapik Aili , Faure Gilbert C. , Béné Marie‐Christine , Massin Frédéric , Salumets Andres , Uibo Raivo
Published: January 2012

Problem

Soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells‐1 (sTREM‐1) is a useful biomarker of infection and inflammation.

Method of study

We studied serum and follicular fluid sTREM‐1 in infertile patients (N = 110) utilizing enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Serum and follicular sTREM‐1 were in good correlation (Pearson's correlation 0.56, P < 0.0001) with higher values in follicular fluid (140.4 ± 34.4 and 115.6 ± 35.1 pg/mL, t‐test, P < 0.0001). Endometriosis associated with lower follicular and serum sTREM‐1 compared with male factor infertility patients (age‐adjusted r = −25.7 pg/mL, P = 0.018; r = −22.1 pg/mL, P = 0.030). No associations between follicular or serum sTREM‐1 and clinical parameters were found, except higher serum sTREM‐1 associated with lower embryo quality in all patients (adjusted r = −0.3%, P = 0.033), with a cutoff value between 111.5 and 113.3 pg/mL (OR = 0.38, P = 0.048; OR = 0.34, P = 0.028) predicting that more than 39% of embryos would be with good quality.

Conclusion

Serum sTREM‐1 could represent a prognostic marker for female fecundity, probably indicating impaired inflammatory reaction of immune system.
Ten‐year experience of home parenteral nutrition in a single centre
Authors: Wiskin Anthony E , Cole Caroline , Owens Daniel R , Morgan Mary , Burge David M , Beattie R Mark
Published: January 2012

Aim:  Recent data are scarce on the provision of home parenteral nutrition (HPN) in children from the UK but would help to commission intestinal failure services. Our aim was to describe 10 years of HPN experience in our centre, which serves a population of 650 000 children.

Methods:  Outcome and complication data were collected retrospectively from hospital records of children receiving HPN from April 2001. Data from other centres were used to compare complications and outcomes in the provision of HPN.

Results:  Nineteen children (12 females) received 10 213 days (28 years) of HPN. In this group, incidence of blood culture positive sepsis was four episodes/1000 days PN. Two children had early intestinal failure–associated liver disease. Of the 19, seven still receive HPN at our centre, six survived PN, three were transferred to other services while still on HPN and three died.

Conclusion:  Outcome and complication data for HPN from a single UK regional paediatric centre are similar to larger centres. These data provide recent evidence of the disease burden of HPN, which are important for the commissioning of intestinal failure services.
Early life‐history stages drive community reassembly in Australian old‐fields
Authors: Scott Andrew J. , Morgan John W.
Published: January 2012

Questions

Do native annual forb seedling communities reassemble after agricultural abandonment to an undisturbed condition? Do environmental changes associated with cultivation affect seedling establishment? Is post‐abandonment recovery of seedling and vegetation communities more limited by seed availability, seedling establishment or seedling survival?

Location

Northern Victoria, Australia.

Methods

Seedling density, species richness and composition were sampled across a 100‐yr chronosequence. Standing vegetation, cover of the biological soil crust and soil properties were sampled from the same plots, and the seed bank was sampled from the same sites. Patterns were compared among the seedlings, seed bank and vegetation.

Results

Native seedling density and species richness did not increase with time‐since‐abandonment, despite some recovery in species composition. Native density and richness were negatively associated with soil fertility and bare ground and positively associated with biological soil crust cover; exotics showed the opposite pattern. Species composition showed little association with soil resources. Percentage field emergence from the seed bank was unaffected by time‐since‐abandonment. Compositional similarity between the seedlings and vegetation was higher (81%) than that between the seedlings and seed bank (61%); neither was affected by time‐since‐abandonment.

Conclusions

While environmental conditions partially determined patterns of seedling recruitment, seed availability was the main driver of seedling density and composition with time‐since‐abandonment. Post‐establishment mortality was apparently not a major determinant of species composition of the standing vegetation. Thus, seed and microsite limitation interacted to drive community reassembly, but seed availability was relatively more important.
Outcome of implant‐supported overdenture treatment – a survey of 58 patients
Authors: Kuoppala Ritva , Näpänkangas Ritva , Raustia Aune
Published: January 2012

Gerondontology 2012; doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00524.x  Outcome of implant‐supported overdenture treatment – a survey of 58 patients

Objective:  The aim of this follow‐up study was to evaluate the long‐term outcome of implant‐supported or implant‐retained mandibular overdenture treatment.

Material and methods:  Altogether 112 patients treated with implant‐supported overdentures between 1985 and 2004 were invited to the follow‐up and 58 attended the clinical examination. The total amount of implants examined and still in use was 197. The average number of implants installed was three (range 2–4), and the mean length of the implants was 12 mm (range 8–21 mm). There were altogether 48 overdentures with a bar connection and 10 with a ball connection.

Results:  The most frequent prosthetic complications were technical: loosening of the retentive mechanism (39.7%) and breakage of the matrices (5.2%). The most common peri‐implant soft‐tissue findings were bleeding and slight hyperplasia. The implant‐supported overdentures of 19 patients (32.8%) had been renewed, while 39 patients (67.2%) still used their original overdentures, of which the oldest was 20 years old.

Conclusion:  The results of this long‐term follow‐up study show that the outcome of implant‐supported mandibular overdenture treatment was excellent. The patients were satisfied with the treatment, regardless of the attachment type used. Removable overdentures are more easy to clean and can be cleaned outside the patient’s mouth, whereas fixed‐implant full‐arch dentures in the edentulous mandible require much more time‐consuming hygiene. This kind of overdenture treatment is suitable also in the elderly, even though their ability to practice appropriate oral hygiene might be decreased.
Effects of systemic sitafloxacin on periodontal infection control in elderly patients
Authors: Nakajima Takako , Okui Takafumi , Miyauchi Sayuri , Honda Tomoyuki , Shimada Yasuko , Ito Harue , Akazawa Kohei , Yamazaki Kazuhisa
Published: January 2012

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00605.x
 
Effects of systemic sitafloxacin on periodontal infection control in elderly patients

Objective:  To evaluate the microbiological and clinical effects of the systemic administration of sitafloxacin (STFX) on periodontal pockets in elderly patients receiving supportive periodontal therapy (SPT).

Background:  Periodontitis is a risk factor for atherosclerosis. Better periodontal health contributes to reduce atherosclerosis‐related diseases in elderly population.

Materials and methods:  Forty‐four patients undergoing SPT were randomly assigned to two groups: a test group took 100 mg/day of STFX for five consecutive days, or a control group received scaling and root planing (SRP) under local anaesthesia. Microbiological and clinical parameters were examined at baseline and at 1 and 3 months after therapy.

Results:  The presence of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola and Tannerella forsythia was significantly reduced at 1 month after treatment in both groups. The median reductions of the bacteria between the baseline and 1 month were 3.08 and 2.54% in the STFX‐ and SRP‐treated groups, respectively. Both treatments significantly decreased the probing depth at 1 and 3 months compared to the baseline.

Conclusion:  The systemic administration of STFX is effective at improving periodontal health during SPT and could be an alternative to SRP for elderly patients who cannot undergo anaesthesia or are at risk of tissue injury.
Clinical Practice Guidelines for Feeding Behaviors and Weight‐for‐Age at 12 months: A Secondary Analysis of the Infant Feeding Practices Study II
Authors: Gaffney Kathleen F. , Kitsantas Panagiota , Cheema Jehanzeb
Published: January 2012

Background: The World Health Organization has identified childhood obesity as a major threat to global health. Accumulating evidence indicates that excess weight early in life is predictive of later childhood and adolescent obesity. Clinical practice guidelines for infant feeding behaviors have been developed by national and international health organizations. The relationship between these guidelines and infant weight status has not been established.

Aim: To examine the relationship between weight‐for‐age at 1 year and adherence to four clinical practice guidelines for feeding behaviors: no bottle‐to‐bed, minimal juice consumption, breastfeeding throughout the first year of life, and introduction to solid food no earlier than age 4–6 months.

Methods: Data were obtained from the Infant Feeding Practices Study II, a longitudinal, national survey administered by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that followed mother–infant dyads from pregnancy through 1 year postpartum. The sample was comprised of 691 infants for whom 12‐month survey data were available.

Results: Significant associations with weight‐for‐age were found for juice consumption (p= 0.003), breastfeeding during the second half of infancy (p < 0.001), and introduction to solid foods prior to age 4 months (p < 0.001). A regression model that controlled for infant and maternal characteristics demonstrated that these feeding behaviors remained significant predictors of weight‐for‐age at 12 months.

Conclusions and Implications: Modifiable infant feeding behaviors contributed to weight‐for‐age at 1 year. Replication studies with economically and culturally diverse samples are needed. Further, testing longitudinal interventions that address infant feeding practices is likely to yield the evidence needed for shaping future clinical practice guidelines that reduce the risk for childhood obesity and related pediatric comorbidities.
Recognizing and Responding to Uncertainty: A Grounded Theory of Nurses’ Uncertainty
Authors: Cranley Lisa A. , Doran Diane M. , Tourangeau Ann E. , Kushniruk Andre , Nagle Lynn
Published: January 2012

Background: There has been little research to date exploring nurses’ uncertainty in their practice. Understanding nurses’ uncertainty is important because it has potential implications for how care is delivered.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to develop a substantive theory to explain how staff nurses experience and respond to uncertainty in their practice.

Methods: Between 2006 and 2008, a grounded theory study was conducted that included in‐depth semi‐structured interviews. Fourteen staff nurses working in adult medical–surgical intensive care units at two teaching hospitals in Ontario, Canada, participated in the study.

Findings: The theory recognizing and responding to uncertainty characterizes the processes through which nurses’ uncertainty manifested and how it was managed. Recognizing uncertainty involved the processes of assessing, reflecting, questioning, and/or being unable to predict aspects of the patient situation. Nurses’ responses to uncertainty highlighted the cognitive–affective strategies used to manage uncertainty.

Discussion: Study findings highlight the importance of acknowledging uncertainty and having collegial support to manage uncertainty. The theory adds to our understanding the processes involved in recognizing uncertainty, strategies and outcomes of managing uncertainty, and influencing factors.

Implications: Tailored nursing education programs should be developed to assist nurses in developing skills in articulating and managing their uncertainty. Further research is needed to extend, test and refine the theory of recognizing and responding to uncertainty to develop strategies for managing uncertainty.

Conclusions: This theory advances the nursing perspective of uncertainty in clinical practice. The theory is relevant to nurses who are faced with uncertainty and complex clinical decisions, to managers who support nurses in their clinical decision‐making, and to researchers who investigate ways to improve decision‐making and care delivery.
QSAR Models for isoindolinone‐based p53–MDM2 Interaction Inhibitors Using Linear and Non‐linear Statistical Methods
Authors: Dong Xiaowu , Yan Jingying , Lu Dong , Wu Peng , Gao Jiadi , Liu Tao , Yang Bo , Hu Yongzhou
Published: January 2012

The design and optimization of p53–MDM2 interaction inhibitors has attracted a great deal of interest in the development of new anticancer agents. Systematical 2D‐QSAR studies on 98 isoindolinone‐based p53–MDM2 interaction inhibitors were carried out using linear and the non‐linear mathematical methods. At first, a forward stepwise‐multiple linear regression model (FS‐MLR) was proposed with reasonable statistical parameters (Rtrain2 = 0.881, Qloo2 = 0.847, Rtest2 = 0.854). Then, enhanced replacement method–multiple linear regression (ERM‐MLR) and support vector machine regression (SVMR) were applied to set up more accurate models (ERM‐MLR: Rtrain2 = 0.914, Qloo2 = 0.894 and Rtest2 = 0.903; SVMR: Rtrain2 = 0.924, Qloo2 = 0.920 and Rtest2 of 0.874). Furthermore, the reliability and application value of the ERM and SVMR model was also validated in virtual screening through receiver operating characteristic studies.
The Swiss Early Psychosis Project SWEPP: a national network
Authors: Simon Andor E. , Theodoridou Anastasia , Schimmelmann Benno , Schneider Roland , Conus Philippe
Published: January 2012

Aim: The study aims to describe the activities of the Swiss Early Psychosis Project (SWEPP) which was founded in 1999 as a national network to further and disseminate knowledge on early psychosis (EP) and to enhance collaboration between healthcare groups.

Methods: The present paper is a detailed account of the initiation and the development of the Swiss network. We describe all activities such as the several educational campaigns that were addressed to primary and secondary care groups since the early days. We also provide an overview of the current status of EP services throughout the country.

Results: Today, most regions in Switzerland provide specialized EP inpatient and/or outpatient services with a clinical or combined clinical research approach that targets at‐risk and/or first‐episode populations. Some more recently initiated EP services have been launched as collaborative models between several local or regional psychiatric services.

Conclusions: The increasing number of EP services and experts in Switzerland may mirror the catalyzing contribution of the Swiss Early Psychosis Project in this important field of health care. The country's small size and the increasing density of specialized services provide excellent bases for larger‐scale networking activities in the future, both in clinical and research areas.
Prevalence of TMD and PTSD Symptoms in a Military Sample
Authors: VANECEK MAJ ROBERT J. , TALCOTT COL GERALD W. , TABOR CAPT ANNA , MCGEARY DONALD D. , LANG COL MAUREEN , OHRBACH RICHARD
Published: January 2012

This study examines the relationship between deployment, symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) in an active duty sample. Five hundred twenty‐two members provided screening information in conjunction with annual dental exams. Persons screening positive for one condition (either PTSD or TMD) are significantly more likely (odds ratio [OR] = 4.63 [95% confidence interval = 1.56–13.73]) to screen positive for the other condition. Deployment exposure did not predict screening status for either conditions. Females were more likely to screen positive for TMD than were males (OR = 3.6). Symptoms of PTSD and TMD were highly related in this sample, but neither related to deployment history.
Novel Treatment Strategies for Liver Disease Due to a1‐Antitrypsin Deficiency
Authors: Maurice Nicholas , Perlmutter David H.
Published: January 2012

Alpha1‐antitrypsin (AT) deficiency is the most common genetic cause of liver disease in children and is also a cause of chronic hepatic fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma in adults. Recent advances in understanding how mutant AT molecules accumulate within hepatocytes and cause liver cell injury have led to a novel strategy for chemoprophylaxis of this liver disease. This strategy involves a class of drugs, which enhance the intracellular degradation of mutant AT and, because several of these drugs have been used safely in humans for other indications, the strategy can be moved immediately into clinical trials. In this review, we will also report on advances that provide a basis for several other strategies that could be used in the future for treatment of the liver disease associated with AT deficiency. Clin Trans Sci 2011; Volume 5: 289–294
Deriving Competencies for Mentors of Clinical and Translational Scholars
Authors: Abedin Zainab , Biskup Ewelina , Silet Karin , Garbutt Jane M. , Kroenke Kurt , Feldman Mitchell D. , McGee, Jr Richard , Fleming Michael , Pincus Harold Alan
Published: January 2012

Although the importance of research mentorship has been well established, the role of mentors of junior clinical and translational science investigators is not clearly defined. The authors attempt to derive a list of actionable competencies for mentors from a series of complementary methods. We examined focus groups, the literature, competencies derived for clinical and translational scholars, mentor training curricula, mentor evaluation forms and finally conducted an expert panel process in order to compose this list. These efforts resulted in a set of competencies that include generic competencies expected of all mentors, competencies specific to scientists, and competencies that are clinical and translational research specific. They are divided into six thematic areas: (1) Communication and managing the relationship, (2) Psychosocial support, (3) Career and professional development, (4) Professional enculturation and scientific integrity, (5) Research development, and (6) Clinical and translational investigator development. For each thematic area, we have listed associated competencies, 19 in total. For each competency, we list examples that are actionable and measurable. Although a comprehensive approach was used to derive this list of competencies, further work will be required to parse out how to apply and adapt them, as well future research directions and evaluation processes. Clin Trans Sci 2012; Volume 5: 273–280