bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Nonsense SCN5A Mutation Associated with Brugada‐Type Electrocardiogram and Intraventricular Conduction Defects
Authors: SAMANI KAVEH , AI TOMOHIKO , TOWBIN JEFFREY A. , BRUGADA RAMON , SHURAIH MOSSAAB , XI YUTAO , WU GERU , CHENG JIE , VATTA MATTEO
Published: August 2009

Mutations of SCN5A, gene‐encoding α‐subunit of cardiac sodium channel, can cause mixed phenotypes of Brugada syndrome (BrS) and cardiac conduction diseases (CCD). We have identified a nucleotide change of SCN5A (4178T > G), which results in a nonsense mutation, L1393X, in a 36‐year‐old Caucasian man who presented with intraventricular conduction delays and BrS‐type electrocardiogram change. To study biophysical characteristics of L1393X‐SCN5A, electrophysiological and immuno‐staining studies were performed using mammalian expression systems. While WT‐SCN5A showed significant currents (93.3 ± 10.6 pA/pF; 1 μg plasmid), L1393X (5 μg) did not generate any significant currents in NIH‐3T3 cells. The cells cotransfected with WT (0.5 μg) and L1393X (0.5 μg) showed approximately 50% current amplitudes compared to the WT (1 μg). Voltage dependency of a steady‐state activation and inactivation was not affected by the cotransfection of L1393X. Immuno‐histochemical stainings demonstrated that L1393X proteins were expressed in the plasma membranes. Our study demonstrated that L1393X‐SCN5A does not form functional channel proteins, which might account for the patient's mixed phenotypes of BrS and CCD.
Ablation of Atrial Flutter in a Patient with a Tricuspid Valve Replacement after Endocarditis
Authors: NORDBECK PETER , BAUER WOLFGANG R. , RITTER OLIVER
Published: August 2009

Myocardial scars from heart surgery are a source of tachycardia, eventually causing late morbidity and sudden death. In general, catheter ablation has been shown to be an effective therapy for various rhythm disorders, but it has been rarely described after atrioventricular valve replacement. We report on a 45‐year‐old man who developed atrial flutter after implantation of a tricuspid valve bioprosthesis. An electrophysiological investigation revealed typical type‐I counterclockwise atrial flutter that was successfully terminated by catheter ablation. A sinus rhythm was restored and remained stable during the course of treatment; the valvular function was not diminished. It is demonstrated that safe mapping and ablation of typical atrial flutter is possible after a tricuspid valve replacement.
Real‐time Integration of Intracardiac Echocardiography and Electroanatomic Mapping in PVCs Arising from the LV Anterior Papillary Muscle
Authors: YAMADA TAKUMI , McELDERRY H. THOMAS , DOPPALAPUDI HARISH , KAY G. NEAL
Published: August 2009

A 54‐year‐old woman with idiopathic premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) underwent electrophysiological testing. Three‐dimensional (3D) geometries of the papillary muscles and chamber of the left ventricle (LV) were reconstructed using a CARTO‐based 3D ultrasound imaging system (Biosense Webster Inc., Diamond Bar, CA, USA) during the PVCs. Activation mapping in the LV was then performed during the PVCs and the activation map revealed the earliest ventricular activation on the anterior papillary muscle. An irrigated radiofrequency current delivered at that site with guidance from that system eliminated the PVCs. This case may suggest that the guidance system may be feasible and useful for catheter ablation of PVCs arising from uncommon sites.
Newcomers in the Canadian housing market: a longitudinal study, 2001–2005
Authors: HIEBERT DANIEL
Published: August 2009

The Longitudinal Survey of Immigrants to Canada (LSIC) is used to investigate the participation of immigrants in Canada's housing market during the first four years of the settlement process, beginning in 2000–2001. The analysis focuses on the changing rate of homeownership, crowding and affordability. Special attention is given to differences between landing classes and population groups (especially visible minority groups). In general, the housing situation of LSIC survey respondents improved remarkably over the years covered by the survey. This is registered in a much higher rate of homeownership in the third wave of the survey (at four years after landing) compared with the first (six months after landing). Similarly, the ratio of survey respondents spending more than 30 percent of their total family income on housing dropped dramatically, as did the percentage living in crowded conditions. In other words, at least according to the measures explored here, LSIC suggests that the proportion of immigrants in precarious housing situations drops significantly in the early settlement period. This positive outcome is not universally shared, however, and certain groups—notably refugees, and immigrants of black and MiddleEastern background—see much less improvement in their circumstances than the average survey respondent.
Immigrants and homelessness—at risk in Canada's outer suburbs
Authors: PRESTON VALERIE , MURDIE ROBERT , WEDLOCK JANE , AGRAWAL SANDEEP , ANUCHA UZO , D'ADDARIO SILVIA , KWAK MIN J. , LOGAN JENNIFER , MURNAGHAN ANN M.
Published: August 2009

Homelessness is a risk for growing numbers of immigrants. Largely as a result of low incomes, newcomers are more likely than the Canadian‐born to spend over 50 percent of total household income on housing costs. Many newcomers suffer ‘hidden homelessness’. They do not use shelters and other services, but share accommodation, couch‐surf and rely on their social contacts for temporary and precarious housing. The adverse impact of low incomes on the housing experiences of Canadian newcomers is exacerbated in the outer suburbs of metropolitan areas where the supply of affordable housing is limited. This study explores the social backgrounds and housing experiences of immigrant households that are vulnerable to homelessness in outer suburbs through analysis of special tabulations from the 2001 census for York Region and interviews with representatives from local community organisations serving immigrant and low‐income populations. The initial findings confirm that a high proportion of newcomers in York Region are at‐risk of homelessness during the first 10 years of residence in Canada. Although renters are more vulnerable than homeowners, a substantial percentage of newcomers who are homeowners pay more than 30 percent of their total income on housing costs. The shortage of affordable rental housing in the outer suburbs exacerbates the impacts of low incomes, immigration status, household size and ethnoracial identities on immigrants' housing.
The role of housing and neighbourhood in the re‐settlement process: a case study of refugee households in Winnipeg
Authors: CARTER THOMAS S. , POLEVYCHOK CHESYA , OSBORNE JOHN
Published: August 2009

Access to adequate, affordable housing is an essential first step in the re‐settlement process for immigrants and refugees. It is the basis from which newcomers look for jobs, language training and other services. Without such housing, newcomers may have limited security of tenure, compromised health, jeopardized education and employment opportunities and impaired social and family life. Refugees generally face the greatest challenges of all newcomers and find their housing choices constrained by many factors. This article presents the results of a study of refugee housing circumstances in Winnipeg. Key socio‐economic, housing and neighbourhood characteristics important to successful re‐settlement are documented and analyzed. The longitudinal nature of the study facilitates exploration of trajectories in a variety of indicators over time. The picture that emerges is one of the improving trajectories in many key indicators but also of very difficult circumstances that negatively affect the re‐settlement process and the effective integration of refugee households. The article ends with suggestions for policy and program changes that would improve the housing circumstances of newly arrived refugee households.
La mobilité quotidienne de banlieusards vieillissants et âgés: Déplacements, aspirations et significations de la mobilité
Authors: LORD SÉBASTIEN , JOERIN FLORENT , THÉRIAULT MARIUS
Published: August 2009

Les premières banlieues pavillonnaires nord‐américaines sont problématiques pour le vieillissement à domicile. Malgré la dépendance à l'automobile, les banlieusards âgés aspirent à y vieillir. Plutôt que de déménager, ils adaptent leur quotidien et leurs déplacements. L'accès à la mobilité est un enjeu majeur au maintien d'une expérience résidentielle positive, notamment pour les individus en perte d'autonomie. Or, parce qu’elle est étudiée avec le concept de déplacement, la mobilité des aînés demeure mal comprise en tant qu’expérience individuelle et collective. C’est dans cette optique que les pratiques et les significations de la mobilité quotidienne de 87 banlieusards âgés de 55 à 82 ans de l'agglomération de Québec au Canada sont ici étudiées. En croisant des méthodes quantitative et qualitative ainsi que des techniques d'analyses spatiales, l'article développe une typologie de mobilité pour explorer les stratégies d'adaptation des aînés à leur environnement socio‐spatial. Les résultats montrent que, sans véritablement entrer dans un processus de décision, les banlieusards choisissent implicitement de vieillir en banlieue en adaptant de manière continue leurs modes de vie. La conservation de l'indépendance et l'attachement au «mode de vie banlieusard» sont à la source des aspirations résidentielles. Cette mobilité quotidienne en transformation risque aussi d'influencer les trajectoires résidentielles, alimentant les réflexions sur la requalification de ces milieux vieillissants.
Comparison of interproximal soft tissue height for single implants and contra‐lateral natural teeth
Authors: Lee Dong‐Won , Huh Jong‐Ki , Park Kwang‐Ho , Chai Jung‐Kiu , Kim Chong‐Kwan , Moon Ik‐Sang
Published: August 2009

Objective: To compare the interproximal soft tissue dimensions adjacent to single implant restorations in the premolar–molar position with those adjacent to the contra‐lateral natural teeth.

Material and methods: Twenty‐five patients with a single‐tooth implant in premolar–molar position and healthy contra‐lateral teeth were enrolled in this retrospective cross‐sectional study. The reason for the extraction was periodontitis. Radiographs were used to measure the shortest distance from the tip of the papilla to the crestal bone in single implants and contra‐lateral teeth. A Wilcoxon's signed‐ranks test was used to examine the differences between the interproximal soft tissue dimensions adjacent to the single‐tooth implant restorations (IS‐STI) from those of the contra‐lateral natural teeth (IS‐NT).

Results: We found no significant difference between the mesial IS‐STI and the mesial IS‐NT (3.28±0.83/3.31±0.62; P=0.861), or between the distal IS‐STI and the distal IS‐NT (3.09±0.72/3.3±0.63; P=0.263).

Conclusions: The interproximal soft tissue height adjacent to single‐implant‐supported restorations in the premolar–molar position is similar to that adjacent to the contra‐lateral natural teeth.
Implant‐supported fixed cantilever prosthesis in partially edentulous jaws: a cohort prospective study
Authors: Romeo Eugenio , Tomasi Cristiano , Finini Igor , Casentini Paolo , Lops Diego
Published: August 2009

Background: Reconstructive procedures present a higher rate of biological costs due to the necessity of bone harvest and grafts, use of semipermeable barriers etc. On the hand, implant supported cantilever prostheses could allow a simpler rehabilitation procedure.

Aims: The aim of the present study was to assess the clinical outcome of patients treated with implant‐supported fixed partial dentures (FPD) with cantilever after a mean follow‐up time of 8 years.

Material and methods: The study included 45 consecutive partially edentulous patients treated between January 1994 and August 2006 with 59 partial cantilever fixed prostheses supported by 116 ITI® implants. The primary outcome variable considered was the presence of complications at the subject and bridge level; the secondary outcome variable was marginal bone loss (MBL). The frequency of complications was analyzed according to cantilever location and opposite dentition and tested by Fisher's exact test. A multilevel regression model was constructed to analyze the factors influencing MBL with three levels: subject as the highest, and then implant and site. During the follow‐up period, 11 implants showed a bone loss exceeding the limit for success, out of which two implants showed an infection of the peri‐implant tissue.

Results: After an average observation of 8.2 years of cantilever prostheses loading, the implant success and survival rates were 90.5% and 100%, respectively. Besides, the prosthetic success and survival rate were 57.7% and 100%, respectively.

Discussion: None of the predictors included in the multilevel model presented a significant impact on the bone loss between baseline and the follow‐up examination.

Conclusions: The authors concluded that the prognosis of implant‐supported FPDs and marginal bone loss at implants were not influenced by the position or the length of the cantilever, the location of the bridge and type of opposite dentition. Implant‐supported fixed cantilever prosthesis can be considered a suitable treatment choice.
Role of insulin, insulin‐like growth factor‐1, hyperglycaemic food and milk consumption in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris
Authors: Melnik Bodo C. , Schmitz Gerd
Published: August 2009

Abstract:  It is the purpose of this viewpoint article to delineate the regulatory network of growth hormone (GH), insulin, and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) signalling during puberty, associated hormonal changes in adrenal and gonadal androgen metabolism, and the impact of dietary factors and smoking involved in the pathogenesis of acne. The key regulator IGF‐1 rises during puberty by the action of increased GH secretion and correlates well with the clinical course of acne. In acne patients, associations between serum levels of IGF‐1, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, dihydrotestosterone, acne lesion counts and facial sebum secretion rate have been reported. IGF‐1 stimulates 5α‐reductase, adrenal and gonadal androgen synthesis, androgen receptor signal transduction, sebocyte proliferation and lipogenesis. Milk consumption results in a significant increase in insulin and IGF‐1 serum levels comparable with high glycaemic food. Insulin induces hepatic IGF‐1 secretion, and both hormones amplify the stimulatory effect of GH on sebocytes and augment mitogenic downstream signalling pathways of insulin receptors, IGF‐1 receptor and fibroblast growth factor receptor‐2b. Acne is proposed to be an IGF‐1‐mediated disease, modified by diets and smoking increasing insulin/IGF1‐signalling. Metformin treatment, and diets low in milk protein content and glycaemic index reduce increased IGF‐1 signalling. Persistent acne in adulthood with high IGF‐1 levels may be considered as an indicator for increased risk of cancer, which may require appropriate dietary intervention as well as treatment with insulin‐sensitizing agents.
Melatonin improves presynaptic protein, SNAP‐25, expression and dendritic spine density and enhances functional and electrophysiological recovery following transient focal cerebral ischemia in rats
Authors: Chen Hung‐Yi , Hung Yu‐Chang , Chen Tsung‐Ying , Huang Sheng‐Yang , Wang Yi‐Hua , Lee Wei‐Ting , Wu Tian‐Shung , Lee E‐Jian
Published: August 2009

Abstract:  Synapto‐dendritic dysfunction and rearrangement takes place over time at the peri‐infarct brain after stroke, and the event plays an important role in post‐stroke functional recovery. Here, we evaluated whether melatonin would modulate the synapto‐dendritic plasticity after stroke. Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were treated with melatonin (5 mg/kg) or vehicle at reperfusion onset after transient occlusion of the right middle cerebral artery (tMCAO) for 90 min. Local cerebral blood perfusion, somatosensory electrophysiological recordings and neurobehavioral tests were serially measured. Animals were sacrificed at 7 days after tMCAO. The brain was processed for Nissl‐stained histology, Golgi–Cox‐impregnated sections, or Western blotting for presynaptic proteins, synaptosomal‐associated protein of 25 kDa (SNAP‐25) and synaptophysin (a calcium‐binding protein found on presynaptic vesicle membranes). Relative to controls, melatonin‐treated animals had significantly reduced infarction volumes (P < 0.05) and improved neurobehavioral outcomes, as accessed by sensorimotor and rota‐rod motor performance tests (P < 0.05, respectively). Melatonin also significantly improved the SNAP‐25, but not synaptophysin, protein expression in the ischemic brain (P < 0.05). Moreover, melatonin significantly improved the dendritic spine density and the somatosensory electrophysiological field potentials both in the ischemic brain and the contralateral homotopic intact brain (P < 0.05, respectively). Together, melatonin not only effectively attenuated the loss of presynaptic protein, SANP‐25, and dendritic spine density in the ischemic territory, but also improved the reductions in the dendritic spine density in the contralateral intact brain. This synapto‐dendritic plasticity may partly account for the melatonin‐mediated improvements in functional and electrophysiological circuitry after stroke.
Influence of melatonin therapy and orchiectomy on T cell subsets in male Wistar rats infected with Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Santello Fabricia H. , Del Vecchio Filipin Marina , Caetano Leony C. , Brazão Vânia , Caetano Luana N. , Dos Santos Carla D. , Alonso Toldo Míriam P. , Do Prado Jr José C.
Published: August 2009

Abstract:  Gonadal steroids exert an important influence on the host immune response during infection. Changes resulting from the absence or replacement of gonadal hormones may represent a distinct evolution of a particular parasite. Taking into account the greater susceptibility of males to parasites, the magnitude of the immune response seems to depend on the interaction of many hormones that will act synergistically with other immune cells. The aims of this research were to evaluate the effects of the luck of male sex hormones due to orchiectomy, and the influence of oral administration of melatonin on the immune response of male Wistar rats infected with the Y strain of Trypanosoma cruzi. The percentage of CD3+ CD4+ and CD3+ CD8+ lymphocyte T cell subsets were evaluated using flow cytometry and the measurement of IL‐2 and IL‐12. For all parameters examined, a synergistic action of melatonin and orchiectomy on the host’s immune response was observed, promoting an effective response against the parasite during the acute phase of infection. These results offer insight into other possibilities for possibly controlling T. cruzi proliferation through melatonin therapy and also the stimulatory effects on host’s immune response triggered by the absence of male gonadal steroids during the acute phase of infection.
Melatonin prolongs islet graft survival in diabetic NOD mice
Authors: Lin Gu‐Jiun , Huang Shing‐Hwa , Chen Yuan‐Wu , Hueng Dueng‐Yuan , Chien Ming‐Wei , Chia Wei‐Tso , Chang Deh‐Ming , Sytwu Huey‐Kang
Published: August 2009

Abstract:  Islet transplantation has been established as a potential therapy for type 1 diabetes. However, inflammation, allorejection, and on‐going autoimmune damage contribute to early graft loss and failure of islet transplantation. Melatonin is the major secretory product of the pineal gland during the dark period of each day and displays multifunctional properties including the regulation of circadian and seasonal rhythms, antioxidation reactions and immune modulation. Based on the immunosuppressive properties of melatonin, we investigated whether melatonin treatment prolonged the survival of islet grafts in non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mice. The mean islet graft survival time was 7.33 ± 1.51 and 7.75 ± 2.66 days in untreated controls and in the solvent‐treated animals, respectively. Strikingly, the mean survival time of islet grafts in recipients treated with melatonin (200 mg/kg/bw) was 17 ± 7.76 days. Moreover, melatonin treatment reduced the proliferation of splenocytes in NOD mice. Using a T1 and T2 double transgenic mouse model, we found that T helper 1 (Th1) cells in mice treated with melatonin were significantly decreased. The reduction of Th1 cells and T cell proliferation may result from an increase in the immunosuppressive cytokine IL‐10. Our results indicate that melatonin treatment suppresses autoimmune recurrence by inhibiting the proliferation of Th1 cells in NOD mice and thus prolongs the survival of syngeneic islet grafts.
Effects of a lifestyle modification trial among phenotypically obese metabolically normal and phenotypically obese metabolically abnormal adolescents in comparison with phenotypically normal metabolically obese adolescents
Authors: Kelishadi Roya , Hashemipour Mahin , Sarrafzadegan Nizal , Mohammadifard Noushin , Alikhasy Hasan , Beizaei Maryam , Sajjadi Firouzeh , Poursafa Parinaz , Amin Zahra , Ghatreh‐Samani Shohreh , Khavarian Noushin , Siadat Zahra Dana
Published: August 2009

This study aimed to assess the effects of a 2‐month lifestyle modification trial on cardio‐metabolic abnormalities and C‐reactive protein (CRP) among obese adolescents with metabolic syndrome [phenotypically obese metabolically abnormal (POMA)] and obese adolescents without a cardio‐metabolic disorder [phenotypically obese metabolically normal (POMN)], as well as in normal‐weight adolescents with at least one cardio‐metabolic disorder [phenotypically normal metabolically obese (PNMO)].

The study comprised 360 adolescents assigned in three groups of equal number of POMN, POMA and PNMO. They were enrolled in a trial consisting of aerobic activity classes, diet and behaviour modification, and were recalled after 6 months.

Overall, 94.7% of participants completed the 2‐month trial, and 87.3% of them returned after 6 months. The mean CRP was not significantly different between the POMA and PNMO groups, but was higher than in the POMN group. After the trial, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) decreased in obese participants, and the mean body fat mass decreased in all groups. At 2 months, the mean total cholesterol (TC), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), triglycerides (TG) and CRP decreased in the POMA and PNMO groups. After 2 and 6 months, the decrease in mean TC, LDL‐C, TG, CRP and systolic blood pressure was greater in the POMA than in the POMN group. The magnitude of decrease in CRP correlated with that of BMI, WC, fat mass, TG, TC and LDL‐C.

Lifestyle modification programmes for primordial/primary prevention of chronic diseases would be beneficial at the population level and should not be limited to obese children.
Folic acid in the prevention of neural tube defects: Awareness among laywomen and healthcare providers in Japan
Authors: Kondo Atsuo , Yamamoto Shin‐ichi , Inoue Hiromi , Watanabe Junichiro , Tada Katsuhiko , Yoshimoto Nobuko
Published: August 2009

It is known that neural tube defects are folic acid preventable congenital anomalies. We investigated to what extent this information was disseminated among laywomen and healthcare providers. Questionnaire studies were conducted twice, in 2002 and 2007, for four groups of laywomen and seven groups of healthcare providers in Japan regarding awareness, folic acid supplements and healthy diets. Awareness among laywomen was less than 20%, except for families who had experience with spina bifida in 2002, and 5 years later only pregnant women showed a significant increase in awareness. Awareness among healthcare providers varied from 12 to 76%, depending on their profession, and this proportion increased in five of the seven groups in 2007. The majority of laywomen obtained their information from mass media, while the majority of healthcare providers received information through media for professionals. Laywomen who used folate supplements and healthcare providers who recommended them were initially fewer than 25 and 37%, respectively. Five years later, however, pregnant women who used folic acid supplements increased from 9.1 to 43.1%. As awareness among non‐pregnant laywomen and some healthcare providers is considerably low, information should be presented repeatedly to these groups. The difficulty in getting women to consume folic acid supplements is an argument for the government to require folic acid fortification of grains so that the prevention of neural tube defects can be maximized.
Restraint‐induced maternal stress and alteration of ossification in mouse fetuses
Authors: Minagi Takashi , Izumi Yuko , Chatani Fumio , Matsumoto Kiyoshi
Published: August 2009

Jcl:ICR pregnant mice were immobilized for 120 minutes from days 8–12 of gestation, and their fetuses were examined for skeletal features on day 18 of gestation. In the stressed group, decreased maternal bodyweight gain and lower fetal weight were noted. In this group, the incidences of segmentation defects, fused ribs, absent lumbar vertebrae and full supernumerary ribs were increased in fetuses. In addition, fusion of the basi‐ and ex‐occipital bones was frequently observed in this group (12.9%). This finding was seen at an incidence of 1.4% in the control group, usually in newborns during the ossification process of the occipital bone. Therefore, the fused basi‐ and ex‐occipital bones were considered to be due to altered ossification, but not to be an abnormality. In summary, immobilization of Jcl:ICR mice during the period of fetal organogenesis induced altered ossification of the occipital bones as well as some abnormalities and supernumerary ribs.
Acrania/encephalocele sequence (exencephaly) associated with 92,XXXX karyotype: Early prenatal diagnosis at 9+5 weeks by 3D transvaginal ultrasound and coelocentesis
Authors: Tonni Gabriele , Ventura Alessandro , Bonasoni Maria Paola
Published: August 2009

A 27‐year‐old pregnant woman was diagnosed by 3D transvaginal ultrasound as carrying a fetus of 9+5 weeks gestation affected by acrania/encephalocele (exencephaly) sequence. A 2D transvaginal ultrasound‐guided aspiration of 5 mL of extra‐coelomic fluid was performed under cervical block before uterine suction. Conventional cytogenetic analysis demonstrated a 92,XXXX karyotype. Transvaginal 2D ultrasound‐guided coelocentesis for rapid karyotyping can be proposed to women who are near to miscarriage or in cases where a prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of congenital anomaly is performed at an early stage of development. Genetic analysis can be performed using traditional cytogenetic analysis or can be aided by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Coelocentesis may become an integral part of first trimester armamentarium and may be clinically useful in the understanding of the pathogenesis of early prenatally diagnosed congenital anomalies.
Prenatal diagnosis of persistent cloaca
Authors: Suzumori Nobuhiro , Obayashi Shintaro , Hattori Yukio , Kaneko Saori , Suzuki Yoshikatsu , Sugiura‐Ogasawara Mayumi
Published: August 2009

We report four cases of persistent cloaca diagnosed at 32–33 weeks of gestation. In cases of persistent cloaca, serial prenatal ultrasonography shows transient fetal ascites, enlarged cystic structures arising from the fetal pelvis. Our four cases of persistent cloaca were diagnosed prenatally. Persistent cloaca should be considered in any female fetus presenting with hydronephrosis and a large cystic lesion arising from the pelvis as assessed by ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. Neither pulmonary hypoplasia nor severe oligohydramnios were found in any of our four cases, and they each had a good prognosis. Prenatal diagnosis allows time for parental counseling and delivery planning at a tertiary care center for neonatal intensive care and pediatric surgery.
Thoracic kidney associated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Authors: Rattan Kamal N. , Rohilla Seema , Narang Rajat , Rattan Simmi K. , Maggu Sarita , Dhaulakhandi Dhara B.
Published: August 2009

We report three cases of ectopic thoracic (or superior ectopic) kidney; one in a neonate and two in 6‐month‐old children, associated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia. In all cases the diagnosis was made during surgery and confirmed by intravenous pyelography, sonography and magnetic resonance imaging in the postoperative period. Because of the rarity of this condition we report these cases together with a wide review of the published reports.
Definition of infection in chronic wounds by Dutch nursing home physicians
Authors: Rondas AALM , Schols JMGA , Stobberingh EE , Price PE
Published: August 2009

This study investigated the number and type of chronic wounds actually treated by Dutch nursing home physicians (NHPs). It was also the goal to know how many of the treated chronic wounds they considered infected. The NHPs were asked to choose and rank their top five out of several provided criteria for chronic wound infection. After this, the ranking was compared with the choices an international multidisciplinary Delphi group of wound experts made in 2005. A cross‐sectional descriptive survey was conducted using the information from a self‐reported questionnaire in a representative sample of Dutch NHPs. About 361 NHPs (25%) were sent a questionnaire. Of the 361 physicians, 139 (38.5%) filled in and returned the questionnaire of which 121 were valid. Of the NHPs, 73.5% actually treated at least one chronic pressure ulcers (PU), whereas 26.5% did not treat any. All NHPs treated three or less chronic post‐surgical wounds, whereas 68.4% treated none. Chronic venous leg ulcers, arterial ulcers and diabetic ulcers scored infrequently and less than the other two sorts of chronic wounds. Of the Dutch NHPs, 53% considered that none of the PU infected. The other chronic wounds were judged far less frequently to be infected. Dutch NHPs appeared to use more ‘traditional’ criteria such as ‘puss/abscess' and ‘malodour’ to identify infection and did not change their criteria by wound type. According to this study, NHPs do not frequently see many chronic wounds. The most frequent type of wounds treated was PU. For NHPs, the identification of infection of all types of chronic wounds is difficult. The use of criteria that is not in line with consensus documents may lead to ineffective treatment and even seriously damage patients: the clinical identification of infection is still dependent on experts' opinion. Further research on triggers for the suspicion of wound infection and the development of an evidence‐based guideline is necessary.
Point prevalence of wounds in a sample of acute hospitals in Canada
Authors: Hurd Theresa , Posnett John
Published: August 2009

To provide new information on wound prevalence and the potential resource impact of non healing wounds in the acute sector by summarising results from wound audits carried out at 13 acute hospitals in Canada in 2006 and 2007. Audits were carried out in each hospital by the same independent team of advanced practice nurses using standard data‐collection forms. The results reported here were derived from the summary reports for each hospital. A total of 3099 patients were surveyed (median 259 patients per hospital). In the sample hospitals, the mean prevalence of patients with wounds was 41·2%. Most wounds were pressure ulcers (56·2%) or surgical wounds (31·1%). The mean prevalence of pressure ulcers was 22·9%. A majority of pressure ulcers (79·3%) were hospital‐acquired, and 26·5% were severe (Stage III or IV). The rate of surgical wound infection was 6·3%. Forty‐five percent of patients had dressings changed at least daily and the mean dressing time was 10·5 minutes. Wounds are a common and potentially expensive occurrence in acute hospitals. Any wound has the potential to develop complications which compromise patient safety and increase hospital costs. Ensuring consistent, best‐practice wound management programmes should be a key priority for hospital managers.
Continuing Medical Education: 2009 Update on Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitor Therapy Part 2: Updates on Optimal Utilization for Sexual Concerns and Rare Toxicities in This Class (CME)
Authors: Shindel Alan W.
Published: August 2009

Introduction

Highly selective inhibitors of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5I) have been commercially available for over a decade. Our knowledge of these drugs continues to expand.

Aims

To review recent (since 2007) developments on the utilization of PDE5I in clinical practice. The focus of this manuscript is on the use of PDE5I for sexual concerns. Also reviewed are recent reports of rare but potentially serious toxicity.

Methods

Pubmed search utilizing the search terms “phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor,”“PDE5 inhibitor,”“sildenafil,”“vardenafil,” and “tadalafil.” Articles were screened for their relevance to the clinical practice of sexual medicine and/or PDE5I toxicity. Publications on routine dose PDE5I for penile rehabilitation, lower urinary tract symptoms, and stuttering priapism are summarized in a separate manuscript in this series.

Main Outcome Measures

Peer-reviewed publications since the last major update on PDE5I published in the medical literature.

Results

Recent investigations have suggested a number of interventions to potentially improve patient compliance with PDE5I therapy. Additionally, the approval in the past year of tadalafil as a daily medication signifies a potential paradigm shift in our concept of this disorder. Daily dosing may be useful in some men; however, the other available PDE5I continue to show excellent efficacy in the management of erectile dysfunction (ED). In addition to direct effects on ED, several recent reports highlight the use of PDE5I for improvement of premature ejaculation, sexual relationship status, and sexual function in women. There have also been several recent reports of rare but serious toxicity, particularly ototoxicity, associated with PDE5I use.

Conclusions

Recent studies have suggested new ways to optimize utilization of PDE5I not only for the management of ED but also for other sexual concerns in both men and women. Rare but serious toxicities have been reported with PDE5I and, therefore, judicious counseling is indicated before prescribing these medications.
Differential gene expression of rice in response to silicon and rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Brunings A.M. , Datnoff L.E. , Ma J.F. , Mitani N. , Nagamura Y. , Rathinasabapathi B. , Kirst M.
Published: August 2009

Silicon increases the resistance of rice (Oryza sativa) to the rice blast pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae. This study described the relationship between silicon and M. oryzae in terms of whole‐genome gene expression. By assessing gene expression patterns in the rice cultivar Monko‐to using microarray technology, the physiological basis for silicon‐induced resistance was investigated. Silicon amendment resulted in the differential regulation of 221 genes in rice without being challenged with the pathogen. This means that silicon had an observable effect on rice metabolism, as opposed to playing a simple passive role in the resistance response of rice. Compared with control plants, silicon‐amended rice differentially regulated 60% less genes, implying that silicon affects the rice response to rice blast infection at a transcriptional level.
Actin Dynamics Regulates Voltage‐Dependent Calcium‐Permeable Channels of the Vicia faba Guard Cell Plasma Membrane
Authors: Zhang Wei , Fan Liu‐Min
Published: August 2009

Free cytosolic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]cyt) is an ubiquitous second messenger in plant cell signaling, and [Ca2+]cyt elevation is associated with Ca2+‐permeable channels in the plasma membrane and endomembranes regulated by a wide range of stimuli. However, knowledge regarding Ca2+ channels and their regulation remains limited in planta. A type of voltage‐dependent Ca2+‐permeable channel was identified and characterized for the Vicia faba L. guard cell plasma membrane by using patch‐clamp techniques. These channels are permeable to both Ba2+ and Ca2+, and their activities can be inhibited by micromolar Gd3+. The unitary conductance and the reversal potential of the channels depend on the Ca2+ or Ba2+ gradients across the plasma membrane. The inward whole‐cell Ca2+ (Ba2+) current, as well as the unitary current amplitude and NPo of the single Ca2+ channel, increase along with the membrane hyperpolarization. Pharmacological experiments suggest that actin dynamics may serve as an upstream regulator of this type of calcium channel of the guard cell plasma membrane. Cytochalasin D, an actin polymerization blocker, activated the NPo of these channels at the single channel level and increased the current amplitude at the whole‐cell level. But these channel activations and current increments could be restrained by pretreatment with an F‐actin stabilizer, phalloidin. The potential physiological significance of this regulatory mechanism is also discussed.
Axonal Pathology and Loss Precede Demyelination and Accompany Chronic Lesions in a Spontaneously Occurring Animal Model of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Seehusen Frauke , Baumgärtner Wolfgang
Published: August 2009

Axonal damage has been highlighted recently as a cause of neurological disability in various demyelinating diseases, including multiple sclerosis, either as a primary pathological change or secondary due to myelin loss. To characterize and quantify axonal damage and loss in canine distemper demyelinating leukoencephalomyelitis (DL), formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded cerebella were investigated histochemically and immunohistochemically using the modified Bielschowsky's silver stain as well as antibodies against nonphosphorylated (n‐NF), phosphorylated neurofilament (p‐NF) and β‐amyloid precursor protein (β‐APP). Injured axons characterized by immunoreactivity against n‐NF and β‐APP were detected in early distemper lesions without demyelination. In subacute and chronic demyelinating lesions the number of injured axons increased. Moreover, a significant decrease in axonal density was observed within lesions and in the normal appearing white matter in DL as determined by morphometric analyses using Bielschowsky's silver stain and p‐NF immunohistochemistry. Summarized, the observed findings indicate that axonal damage (i) occurs early in DL; (ii) can be detected before myelin loss; and (iii) represents a pivotal feature in advanced lesions. It must be postulated that axonal damage plays an important role in the initial phase as a primary event and during progression of nervous distemper as a result of demyelination.
Involvement of Reactive Oxygen Species in TGF‐β1‐induced Tropoelastin Expression by Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Choi Won Seon , Mitsumoto Atsushi , Kochevar Irene E.
Published: August 2009

Chronic exposure to solar UV radiation causes marked changes in the dermal extracellular matrix that underlie the loss of resiliency and increased laxity observed in photoaged skin. In particular, the dermal elastin content increases substantially and the normal, well‐organized elastic fibers are replaced by amorphous elastotic material. Transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) stimulates synthesis of elastin by dermal fibroblasts and may mediate the increase in elastin in chronically photodamaged skin. We investigated pathways involved in the TGF–β1‐induced increase in tropoelastin (TE), the soluble elastin monomer and assessed the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the regulation of TE mRNA. Antioxidants and an inhibitor of NADPH oxidase blocked TGF–β1‐induced TE mRNA increase even when added 1.5 h after TGF‐β1, although ROS were detected for only 30 min. The TE mRNA increase required activation of Smad4, shown using Smad4 siRNA, and also involved the ERK1/2, p38 and JNK MAP kinases but not PI3K. ROS did not enhance signaling through Smad2 but did enhance activation of p38 and ERK1/2 at 10 min after TGF‐β1. These results indicate that Smad and MAPK pathways mediate TGF–β1‐induced TE expression and that ROS are required for both early signal transduction and later steps that increase elastin.
Near‐infrared Photoinactivation of Bacteria and Fungi at Physiologic Temperatures
Authors: Bornstein Eric , Hermans William , Gridley Scott , Manni Jeffrey
Published: August 2009

We examined a laser system (870 and 930 nm), employing wavelengths that have exhibited cellular photodamage properties in optical traps. In vitro, with 1.5 cm diameter flat‐top projections (power density of 5.66 W cm−2), at physiologic temperatures, we achieved photoinactivation of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans and Trichophyton rubrum. Using nonlethal dosimetry, we measured a decrease in trans‐membrane potentials (ΔΨmt and ΔΨp) and an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA), C. albicans and human embryonic kidney cells. We postulate that these multiplexed wavelengths cause an optically mediated mechano‐transduction of cellular redox pathways, decreasing ΔΨ and increasing ROS. The cellular energetics of prokaryotic and fungal pathogens, along with mammalian cells, are affected in a similar manner when treated with these multiplexed wavelengths at the power densities employed. Following live porcine thermal tolerance skin experiments, we then performed human pilot studies, examining photodamage to MRSA in the nose and fungi in onychomycosis. No observable damage to the nares or the nail matrix was observed, yet photodamage to the pathogens was achieved at physiologic temperatures. The selective aspect of this near‐infrared photodamage presents the possibility for its future utilization in human cutaneous antimicrobial therapy.
A Comparative Kinetic and Mechanistic Study Between Tetrahydrozoline and Naphazoline Toward Photogenerated Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Criado Susana , García Norman A.
Published: August 2009

Kinetic and mechanistic aspects of the vitamin B2 (riboflavin [Rf])‐sensitized photo‐oxidation of the imidazoline derivates (IDs) naphazoline (NPZ) and tetrahydrozoline (THZ) were investigated in aqueous solution. The process appears as important on biomedical grounds, considering that the vitamin is endogenously present in humans, and IDs are active components of ocular medicaments of topical application. Under aerobic visible light irradiation, a complex picture of competitive interactions between sensitizer, substrates and dissolved oxygen takes place: the singlet and triplet (3Rf*) excited states of Rf are quenched by the IDs: with IDs concentrationsca. 5.0 mmand 0.02 mmRf,3Rf* is quenched by IDs, in a competitive fashion with dissolved ground state oxygen. Additionally, the reactive oxygen species: O2(1Δg), O2•−, HO•and H2O2, generated from3Rf* and Rf •−, were detected with the employment of time‐resolved methods or specific scavengers. Oxygen uptake experiments indicate that, for NPZ, only H2O2was involved in the photo‐oxidation. In the case of THZ, O2•−, HO•and H2O2were detected, whereas only HO•was unambiguously identified as THZ oxidative agents. Upon direct UV light irradiation NPZ and THZ generate O2(1Δg.), with quantum yields of 0.2 (literature value, employed as a reference) and 0.08, respectively, in acetonitrile.
Relationships of serum free thyroxine and erythrocyte measures in euthyroid HFE C282Y homozygotes and control subjects: the HEIRS Study
Authors: BARTON J. C. , LEIENDECKER‐FOSTER C. , REBOUSSIN D. M. , ADAMS P. C. , ACTON R. T. , ECKFELDT J. H. ,   FOR THE HEMOCHROMATOSIS AND IRON OVERLOAD SCREENING STUDY RESEARCH INVESTIGATORS
Published: August 2009

Hemoglobin (Hb) levels and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) are abnormal in some persons with hemochromatosis or thyroid disorders. We sought to determine whether serum free thyroxine (T4) affects erythrocyte measures in euthyroid adults with or without C282Y homozygosity. We evaluated 488 white HFE C282Y homozygotes and controls (no HFE C282Y or H63D; normal serum iron measures) identified in screening; we excluded those with thyroid disorders, anemia, erythrocytosis, or serum ferritin (SF) <34 pmol/l. In the remaining 141 C282Y homozygotes and 243 controls, we evaluated correlations of log10 free T4 with Hb, RBC, MCV, and red blood cell distribution width (RDW). C282Y homozygotes had lower mean age, higher mean Hb, MCV, and log10 SF, and lower mean RBC and RDW than controls; mean log10 free T4 did not differ significantly. In HFE C282Y homozygotes, there was no significant correlation of log10 T4 with erythrocyte measures. In controls, there was a positive correlation of log10 T4 with Hb (P = 0.0096) and a negative correlation with RDW (P = 0.0286). Among euthyroid white adults without iron deficiency, there are significant correlations of log10 free T4 with Hb and RDW in controls, but not in HFE C282Y homozygotes.
Restitution of the Temperature Field Inside a Cylinder of Semitransparent Dense Medium From Directional Intensity Data
Authors: Le Dez V. , Lemonnier D. , Sadat H.
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this paper is to obtain the temperature field inside a cylinder filled in with a dense nonscattering semitransparent medium from directional intensity data by solving the inverse radiative transfer equation. This equation is solved in a first approach with the help of a discrete scheme, and the solution is then exactly obtained by separating the physical set on two disjoint domains on which a Laplace transform is applied, followed by the resolution of a first kind Fredholm equation.
Boubaker Polynomials Weak Solutions to a Robin Boundary Conditioned Dynamic-State Heat Transfer Problem
Authors: Boubaker K. ben Mahmoud
Published: August 2009

In this paper we are concerned with the solution of a Robin boundary conditioned problem associated with the local heat transfer equation. The results are obtained using both symmetrical system features and expansions of a Boubaker polynomial subsequence. The yielded profile is compared with some recently proposed models.
Heat Transfer of Coupled Fluid Flow Within a Channel With a Permeable Base
Authors: Mohais Rosemarie , Bhatt Balswaroop
Published: August 2009

We examine the heat transfer in a Newtonian fluid confined within a channel with a lower permeable wall. The upper wall of the channel is impermeable and driven by an accelerating surface velocity. Through a similarity solution, the Navier–Stokes equations are reduced to a fourth-order differential equation; the analytical solutions of which determined for small Reynolds numbers show dependence of the temperature and heat transfer profiles on the slip parameter based on the properties of the porous channel base. For larger Reynolds numbers, numerical solutions for three main groups of solutions show that the Reynolds number strongly influences the heat transfer profile. However, the slip conditions associated with the porous base of the channel can be used to alter these heat transfer profiles for large Reynolds numbers. The presence of a porous base in a channel can thus serve as an effective means of reducing or enhancing heat transfer performance in model systems.
An Integral Solution for Heat Transfer in Accelerating Turbulent Boundary Layers
Authors: Sucec James
Published: August 2009

An equilibrium thermal wake strength parameter is developed for a two-dimensional turbulent boundary layer flow and is then used in the combined thermal law of the wall and the wake to give an approximate temperature profile to insert into the integral form of the thermal energy equation. After the solution of the integral x momentum equation, the integral thermal energy equation is solved for the local Stanton number as a function of position x for accelerating turbulent boundary layers. A simple temperature distribution in the thermal “superlayer” is part of the present modeling. The analysis includes a dependence of the hydrodynamic and thermal wake strengths on the momentum thickness and enthalpy thickness Reynolds numbers, respectively. An approximate dependence of the turbulent Prandtl number, in the “log” region, on the strength of the favorable pressure gradient is proposed and incorporated into the solution. The resultant solution for the Stanton number distribution in accelerated turbulent flows is compared with experimental data in the literature. A comparison of the present predictions is also made to a finite difference solution, which uses the turbulent kinetic energy—turbulent dissipation model of turbulence, for a few cases of accelerating flows.