bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measuring buccolingual inclination of mandibular canines and first molars using CBCT
Authors: Shewinvanakitkul W , Hans MG , Narendran S , Martin Palomo J
Published: June 2011

To cite this article:
 Shewinvanakitkul W, Hans MG, Narendran S, Martin Palomo J: Measuring buccolingual inclination of mandibular canines and first molars using CBCT Orthod Craniofac Res 2011;14:168–174

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Shewinvanakitkul W, Hans MG, Narendran S, Palomo JM

Objectives –  To develop a reliable method to measure buccolingual inclination of mandibular canines and first molars, and to evaluate a possible correlation between buccolingual inclination with their respective interdental width.

Methods –  The sample consisted of 37 boys and 41 girls untreated orthodontic patients averaging 13.2 ± 0.96 years. A line tangent to the inferior border of the mandible and the long axis of the tooth measured buccolingual inclination. Intercanine and intermolar widths were measured on casts.

Results –  Reliability (ICC) values were >0.94. The mean mandibular canine inclination was 98.0 ± 4.1°, with mean width 26.0 ± 2.2 mm. The mean mandibular molar inclination was 74.6 ± 4.7° with mean width 40.9 ± 2.7 mm. First molar inclination of Class II molar subjects (73.7 ± 4.2°) was significantly less (p ≤ 0.05) than of Class I subjects (75.6 ± 4.9°). There were low correlations between interdental width and buccolingual inclination.

Conclusions –  A practical and reliable method to measure buccolingual inclination of mandibular canines and first molars is here described using Cone Beam Computed Tomography and a commercially available DICOM software.
Imaging the urinary tract in children with urinary tract infection
Authors: Hannula Annukka , Venhola Mika , Perhomaa Marja , Pokka Tytti , Renko Marjo , Uhari Matti
Published: June 2011

Aim:  To evaluate whether ultrasonography (US) alone is sufficient in imaging the urinary tract in 1185 children with urinary tract infection (UTI).

Methods:  The reports on US and voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) were reviewed.

Results:  Initial US was normal in 861/1185 patients (73%). VCUG revealed abnormal findings in 285/861 (33%), of which grade III–V vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) comprised 97 cases (11%). During follow‐up, VUR had resolved in 88/97 (91%) patients: in 50/57 (88%) patients without active treatment for VUR, in 27/29 (93%) with endoscopic and in 11/11 (100%) with open surgery for VUR. During follow‐up, 11/97 patients (11%) had developed new renal scarring detectable in US, but no renal impairment occurred. Except for VUR, VCUG showed nonobstructive urethral valves in two infant boys with normal initial US. Thus, in 861 children with normal initial US, 40 patients with grade III–V VUR and two patients with significant nonreflux pathology may have benefited from surgical treatment, giving the total number of possibly missed pathological finding in 42/861 (4.9%) cases if VCUG had not been performed.

Conclusion:  We suggest that children with UTI could be examined using US alone and to use VCUG only after additional indications.
Amplitude‐integrated EEG differences in premature infants with and without bronchopulmonary dysplasia: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Sommers Ross , Tucker Richard , Laptook Abbot
Published: July 2011

Aim:  To evaluate differences in amplitude‐integrated electroencephalogram (aEEG) recordings of infants with and without bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).

Methods:  This is a cross‐sectional study of infants ≤27 weeks at birth who did (n = 17) or did not develop BPD (n = 17). aEEG tracings were recorded at 360–366 weeks post‐menstrual age for 6 h using the BrainZ BRM3 monitor. A cross‐cerebral channel was evaluated using offline software Analyze (BrainZ).

Results:  Infants with BPD had lower gestational age and higher male predominance (25 ± 1 weeks, 70%) compared with non‐BPD infants (26 ± 1 weeks, 30%, all p ≤ 0.03), but similar birth weight (704 ± 195 vs. 796 ± 167 g, p = 0.1). During active sleep, infants with BPD had wider span voltage (p = 0.03), higher lower border voltage (p < 0.03), as well as less periods of quiet sleep per hour (p < 0.01) compared with non‐BPD infants. These differences persisted after adjustment for covariates.

Conclusion:  Infants with BPD have small but significant differences in their aEEG tracings compared with infants without BPD at 36 weeks. Further study of infants with BPD using aEEG appears justified to determine whether aEEG variables correlate with neurodevelopmental outcome.
Motion of the Ca2+‐pump captured
Authors: Yokokawa Masatoshi , Takeyasu Kunio
Published: June 2011

Studies of ion pumps, such as ATP synthetase and Ca2+‐ATPase, have a long history. The crystal structures of several kinds of ion pump have been resolved, and provide static pictures of mechanisms of ion transport. In this study, using fast‐scanning atomic force microscopy, we have visualized conformational changes in the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA) in real time at the single‐molecule level. The analyses of individual SERCA molecules in the presence of both ATP and free Ca2+ revealed up–down structural changes corresponding to the Albers–Post scheme. This fluctuation was strongly affected by the ATP and Ca2+ concentrations, and was prevented by an inhibitor, thapsigargin. Interestingly, at a physiological ATP concentrations, the up–down motion disappeared completely. These results indicate that SERCA does not transit through the shortest structure, and has a catalytic pathway different from the ordinary Albers–Post scheme under physiological conditions.
Review article: People who present on multiple occasions to emergency departments
Authors: Nelson Katherine , Connor Margaret , Wensley Cynthia , Moss Cheryle , Pack Margaret , Hussey Tania
Published: June 2011

Research about people who present on multiple occasions to the ED began in the 1980s. Despite this, little is known of their journey as patients. Understanding ED use as a journey can help clinicians improve how they meet the needs of this patient group. Multiple terms were used to identify research on the use of the ED. Papers were included if they had a primary focus on multiple presentations by the general ED population. Integrative review methods were used to extract findings related to the patients' journeys. The findings confirm a sequence of events and processes that provide an outline of the journey through the experience of people who present on multiple occasions. The journey concerns people's decisions to present and re‐present to the ED, their assessments on arrival, dilemmas of treatment, outcomes of care and long‐term health outcomes. This patient group often have high and complex health needs, engage extensively with other health services and have poor long‐term health outcomes. The issue of multiple presentations to the ED is complex and ongoing because of the morbidity of the people concerned, the preference of patients to attend, the purpose of the ED and preparation and role of the personnel and the difficulties with continuity of care. The provision of care for people who present on multiple occasions can be improved within the ED and health services generally through a better understanding of presentations.
Point prevalence of access block and overcrowding in New Zealand emergency departments in 2010 and their relationship to the ‘Shorter Stays in ED’ target
Authors: Jones Peter G , Olsen Sarah
Published: June 2011

Objective: To document the extent of access block and ED overcrowding in New Zealand in 2010 and to determine whether these were linked to the hospital's ability to meet the Shorter Stays in ED target.

Methods: Surveys of all New Zealand EDs were undertaken at two points in time in 2010 to determine ED occupancy. Data on target achievement during corresponding time periods were obtained from the Ministry of Health.

Results: In tertiary and secondary hospitals, respectively, access block was seen in 64% versus 23% (P= 0.05) and overcrowding was seen in 57.1% versus 39% (P= 0.45). No hospital with access block met the ‘Shorter Stays’ target, compared with 60% without access block (P= 0.001). Twenty‐three per cent of hospitals with ED overcrowding met the target compared with 43% without ED overcrowding (P= 0.42). The number of patients experiencing ≥8 h delay to admission were 25 in May and 59 in August (P= 0.04). This represented 45.5% and 79.7% of patients waiting for admission, respectively (P= 0.08).

Conclusion: Hospital access block was seen more often in larger hospitals and significantly associated with failure to meet the ‘Shorter Stays in ED’ health target, whereas ED overcrowding was seen in both small and large hospitals, but not associated with failure to meet the target.
Internal Pudendal Artery from Type 2 Diabetic Female Rats Demonstrate Elevated Endothelin-1-Mediated Constriction
Authors: Allahdadi Kyan J. , Hannan Johanna L. , Ergul Adviye , Tostes Rita C. , Clinton Webb R.
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Diabetes is a risk factor for female sexual dysfunction (FSD). FSD has several etiologies, including a vasculogenic component that could be exacerbated in diabetes. The internal pudendal artery supplies blood to the vagina and clitoris and diabetes-associated functional abnormalities in this vascular bed may contribute to FSD.

Aim

The Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rat is a non-obese model of type 2 diabetes with elevated endothelin-1 (ET-1) activity. We hypothesize that female GK rats have diminished sexual responses and that the internal pudendal arteries demonstrate increased ET-1 constrictor sensitivity.

Methods

Female Wistar and GK rats were used. Apomorphine (APO)-mediated genital vasocongestive arousal (GVA) was measured. Functional contraction (ET-1 and phenylephrine) and relaxation (acetylcholine, ACh) in the presence or absence of the ETA receptor antagonist (ETAR; atrasentan) or Rho-kinase inhibitor (Y-27632) were assessed in the internal pudendal and mesenteric arteries. Protein expression of ET-1 and RhoA/Rho-kinase signaling pathway was determined in the internal pudendal and mesenteric arteries.

Main Outcome Measure

APO-mediated GVAs; contraction and relaxation of internal pudendal and mesenteric arteries; ET-1/RhoA/Rho-kinase protein expression.

Results

GK rats demonstrated no APO-induced GVAs. Internal pudendal arteries, but not mesenteric arteries, from GK rats exhibited greater contractile sensitivity to ET-1 compared with Wistar arteries. ETAR blockade reduced ET-1-mediated constriction in GK internal pudendal and mesenteric arteries. Rho-kinase inhibition reduced ET-1-mediated constriction of GK internal pudendal but not mesenteric arteries; however, it had no effect on arteries from Wistar rats. RhoA protein expression was elevated in GK internal pudendal arteries. At the highest concentrations, ACh-mediated relaxation was greater in the GK internal pudendal artery; however, no difference was observed in the mesenteric artery.

Conclusions

Female GK rats demonstrate decreased sexual responses that may be because of increased constrictor sensitivity to the ET-1/RhoA/Rho-kinase signaling in the internal pudendal artery.
Using Genital Self-Image, Body Image, and Sexual Behaviors to Predict Gynecological Exam Behaviors of College Women
Authors: DeMaria Andrea L. , Hollub Ariane V. , Herbenick Debby
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Despite the benefits of gynecological exams, they continue to be underused. A woman's decision to seek gynecological care may be influenced by a number of factors including genital image, body image, and sexual behaviors.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to assess if genital self-image, body image, and sexual behaviors predict gynecological exam behaviors among a convenience sample of college women.

Methods

Data were collected from female students enrolled in health-related courses at a large southern university. A total of 450 completed surveys were collected.

Main Outcome Measure

Descriptive statistics were utilized to analyze participant characteristics. Reliability analyses were conducted to assess internal consistency of scales used within the study, using Cronbach's alpha coefficient as an indicator of this reliability. Predictive discriminant analysis (PDA) was used to indicate the predictor, or group of predictors, best suited to predict gynecological exam behaviors of college women.

Results

Hit rates yielded from the PDA indicate the number of cases correctly predicted by the classification functions, with higher hit rates being indicative of better predictive capabilities. The following variables were found to be most predictive of gynecological exam behaviors: (i) having had a vaginal intercourse (VI) partner during the past 3 months (68.2%); (ii) genital self-image paired with having had a VI partner (68.2%); (iii) having had a VI partner paired with having had an anal intercourse (AI) partner during the past 3 months (68.2%); and (iv) genital self-image, VI, and AI combined (68.2%).

Conclusion

VI behavior was found to be the primary predictor of gynecological exam behavior in the current study. Understanding the factors influencing a woman's decision to engage in regular gynecological exams is important in order for health and medical professionals to address the limiting factors in this preventive health measure.
CHANGES IN RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF RICE FLOUR DURING EXTRUSION COOKING
Authors: GUHA MANISHA , ALI S. ZAKIUDDIN
Published: June 2011

Flour from two rice cultivars, one (IR‐64) with a high (28.6%) and the other (Agonibora) with a low (5.0%) amylose content, having 20% moisture, was extruded at different barrel temperatures (80–120C), through a twin‐screw extruder at a constant feed rate (15 kg/h) and screw speed (400 rpm). The effect of barrel temperature and amylose content of rice extrudates on pasting and rheological properties were examined using rapid visco‐analyzer and a coaxial cylinder system, respectively. Extrudates from low‐amylose rice exhibited lower paste viscosity than from high‐amylose rice. Different rheological models (Power law, Herschel–Bulkley, Bingham and Casson) were examined for the best description of the shear rate/shear stress data. The Herschel–Bulkley model fitted best (r ≥ 0.948–0.989, P ≤ 0.01) for the high‐amylose rice, whereas the Power law model showed best fit (r ≥ 0.998–0.999, P ≤ 0.01) for the low‐amylose rice extrudate.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The end use of pregelatinized rice flour prepared by extrusion cooking depends on the pasting and flow behavior characteristics of its starch that are largely controlled by the amylose content of rice cultivar. The present work offers a general approach for characterization of pasting profile and rheological behavior of pregelatinized extruded rice flour. The extruded flour from low‐amylose rice exhibited lower pasting and apparent viscosity than from the high‐amylose one. The low‐amylose rice extrudates render itself more suitable as a base material in food formulations where a high solid density per unit volume is required. The extrudate from high‐amylose rice, on the other hand, could be used as a thickener in convenience foods such as soup mixes. The results obtained may be useful to food industries for development of newer food formulations based on extruded rice flour.
GLAZING EFFECTS ON BREAD CRUST AND CRUMB STALING DURING STORAGE
Authors: CHIN N.L. , ABDULLAH R. , YUSOF Y.A.
Published: June 2011

The uses of cornstarch, egg white, skim milk and shortening as glazes on bread surfaces were investigated for its ability to reduce bread staling. Four concentrations of glazes were applied to sweet bun surfaces. Bread crumb and crust samples were measured for its firmness and moisture during storage. The rates of change in firmness and moisture contents of crumb and crust with storage time were analyzed by comparing with nonglazed breads as control. While both crumb and crust firmness and the crust moisture content increased with storage time, crumb moisture content decreased significantly (P < 0.05). The application of cornstarch, egg white and skim milk was found to be effective in reducing crumb firmness from 7.4 to 26.0% and retain some crumb moisture content (of about 1%) during the storage period of 6 days. This suggests that the storage properties of bread can be improved with the application of these glaze materials.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The use of glaze materials in baked products may provide more than an aesthetic function of creating appearance appeal. This research shows that glazing of breads reduces bread staling through its ability to retain crumb moisture and reduce crumb firming. This finding provides means of improving bread quality in terms of textural properties and its shelf life by means of processing and with no alter in ingredients' formulation.
EFFECT OF REPLACEMENT OF WHEAT FLOUR WITH FINGER MILLET FLOUR (ELEUSINE CORCANA) ON THE BATTER MICROSCOPY, RHEOLOGY AND QUALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF MUFFINS
Authors: RAJIV JYOTSNA , SOUMYA C. , INDRANI D. , VENKATESWARA RAO G.
Published: June 2011

Effect of replacement of wheat flour with 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100% finger millet flour (FMF), 60% FMF, emulsifiers and hydrocolloids on the batter microscopy, rheology and quality characteristics of muffins were studied. The amylograph peak viscosity, breakdown and setback values decreased as the level of FMF increased. The muffin batter microscopy showed that addition of above 60% FMF in blend decreased the number of air cells, indicating poor air incorporation. With the increase in the FMF level from 0 to 100%, the muffin batter density, viscosity, volume and total score decreased, whereas crumb firmness increased. Adverse effect on the quality characteristics of cake was observed above 60% FMF. Use of a combination of polysorbate‐60 and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose significantly improved batter characteristics of muffins with 60% FMF, with respect to viscosity, overall quality of muffin with reference to volume, grain and texture.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Muffins are normally made with wheat flour, and it is a very popular snack item largely consumed by children. Incorporation of finger millet flour, which is a good source of minerals, increases the nutritive value of muffins and also it is a value addition to the finger millet. The finger millet muffins have a familiar taste as it is widely consumed. This paper discusses the effect of replacement finger millet flour in muffins and the improving effect brought about by the use of additives. This information would benefit the baking industry.
Irrigation Effects in the Northern Lake States: Wisconsin Central Sands Revisited
Authors: Kraft George J. , Clancy Katherine , Mechenich David J. , Haucke Jessica
Published: June 2011

Irrigated agriculture has expanded greatly in the water‐rich U.S. northern lake states during the past half century. Source water there is usually obtained from glacial aquifers strongly connected to surface waters, so irrigation has a potential to locally decrease base flows in streams and water levels in aquifers, lakes, and wetlands. During the nascent phase of the irrigation expansion, water availability was explored in works of some fame in the Wisconsin central sands by Weeks et al. (1965) on the Little Plover River and Weeks and Stangland (1971) on “headwater area” streams and lakes. Four decades later, and after irrigation has grown to a dominant landscape presence, we revisited irrigation effects on central sands hydrology. Irrigation effects have been substantial, on average decreasing base flows by a third or more in many stream headwaters and diminishing water levels by more than a meter in places. This explains why some surface waters have become flow and stage impaired, sometimes to the point of drying, with attendant losses of aquatic ecosystems. Irrigation exerts its effects by increasing evapotranspiration by an estimated 45 to 142 mm/year compared with pre‐irrigated land cover. We conclude that irrigation water availability in the northern lake states and other regions with strong groundwater‐surface water connections is tied to concerns for surface water health, requiring a focus on managing the upper few meters of aquifers on which surface waters depend rather than the depletability of an aquifer.
Late Night Activity regarding Stroke Codes: Lunar Strokes
Authors: Tafreshi Gilda , Raman Rema , Ernstrom Karin , Rapp Karen , Meyer Brett C.
Published: June 2011

Background

There is diurnal variation for cardiac arrest and sudden cardiac death. Stroke may show a similar pattern. We assessed whether strokes presenting during a particular time of day or night are more likely of vascular etiology.

Aim

To compare emergency department stroke codes arriving between 22:00 and 8:00 hours (LuNAR strokes) vs. others (n-LuNAR strokes). The purpose was to determine if late night strokes are more likely to be true strokes or warrant acute tissue plasminogen activator evaluations.

Methods

We reviewed prospectively collected cases in the University of California, San Diego Stroke Team database gathered over a four-year period. Stroke codes at six emergency departments were classified based on arrival time. Those arriving between 22:00 and 8:00 hours were classified as LuNAR stroke codes, the remainder were classified as ‘n-LuNAR’. Patients were further classified as intracerebral hemorrhage, acute ischemic stroke not receiving tissue plasminogen activator, acute ischemic stroke receiving tissue plasminogen activator, transient ischemic attack, and non-stroke. Categorical outcomes were compared using Fisher's Exact test. Continuous outcomes were compared using Wilcoxon's Rank-sum test.

Results

A total of 1607 patients were included in our study, of which, 299 (19%) were LuNAR code strokes. The overall median NIHSS was five, higher in the LuNAR group (n-LuNAR 5, LuNAR 7; P = 0.022). There was no overall differences in patient diagnoses between LuNAR and n-LuNAR strokes ( P = 0.169) or diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke receiving tissue plasminogen activator (n-LuNAR 191 (14.6%), LuNAR 42 (14.0%); P = 0.86). Mean arrival to computed tomography scan time was longer during LuNAR hours (n-LuNAR 54.9±76.3 min, LuNAR 62.5±87.7 min; P = 0.027). There was no significant difference in 90-day mortality (n-LuNAR 15.0%, LuNAR 13.2%; P = 0.45).

Conclusions

Our stroke center experience showed no difference in diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke between day and night stroke codes. This similarity was further supported in similar rates of tissue plasminogen activator administration. Late night strokes may warrant a more rapid stroke specialist evaluation due to the longer time elapsed from symptom onset and the longer time to computed tomography scan.
Transferring from an acute hospital and settling into a subacute facility: the experience of patients with dementia
Authors: Digby Robin , Moss Cheryle , Bloomer Melissa
Published: June 2011

digby R., moss c. & bloomer m. (2012) Transferring from an acute hospital and settling into a subacute facility: the experience of patients with dementia. International Journal of Older People Nursing7, 57–64  doi: 10.1111/j.1748‐3743.2011.00282.x

Background.  In a Melbourne metropolitan health network, patients with dementia can have difficulty settling into a subacute rehabilitation facility after transfer from the acute hospital.

Aims and objectives.  To understand how older patients with mild to moderate dementia experienced the transfer from acute to subacute care and settling‐in period.

Design.  A descriptive design was used. Eight patients with mild to moderate dementia were recruited, one to 5 days after transfer.

Method.  A qualitative method using in‐depth interviews was used. The data were analysed using content analysis.

Results.  Four main themes were identified: ‘Settling into a new environment’, ‘staff attitudes to people with dementia’, ‘loss of control’ and ‘family support’.

Conclusions.  Person‐centred care that comes from the perspective of respect for the individual transcends all these issues. People with dementia require more support to settle after transfer. Family involvement can assist in facilitating a smooth transition.

Implications for practice.  Nurses who understand the specific needs of patients with dementia can develop ways of working with patients to ensure person‐centred care. More conversations with people with dementia are needed to investigate how this can be achieved. Orientation procedures should ensure that support for people with dementia is optimized during the settling‐in phase.
Dance performance as a method of intervention as experienced by older persons with dementia
Authors: Ravelin Teija , Isola Arja , Kylmä Jari
Published: June 2011

Background.  Previous studies have shown that dance can bring out the strength and resources of persons with dementia.

Purpose.  To describe for later evaluation how older persons with dementia experience dance performances in a nursing home.

Design.  Four dance performances, based on the recollections the older persons had of different seasons, were arranged in one nursing home.

Methods.  Qualitative descriptive study, with 13 older persons with dementia, four family members, seven nurses and three practical nurse students. Data were collected and analysed using methodological triangulation.

Results.  Older persons identified dance performance activity as a process. They had a positive attitude towards the dance performance and performers, and they had experiences of different elements of the dance performance. The older persons forgot their ailments during the performances, and the performances evoked various emotions and awoke memories. Some of them had negative experiences of dancing and dance performances. The older persons experienced a common bond with other spectators.

Conclusion.  Watching a dance performance is an active process for older persons with dementia.

Implications for practice.  Reminiscence about the dance performance gives the older person an opportunity to deal with the experiences evoked by the performance.
PET/CT imaging in infectious conditions
Authors: Israel Ora , Keidar Zohar
Published: June 2011

New aggressive pathogens are responsible for the increasing incidence and difficult management of infections. Modern epidemics such as diabetes are frequently complicated by severe infections with subsequent high morbidity. Diagnosis (essentially early detection of infection) and also management decision making pose clinical challenges. Many resources are invested in developing precise, noninvasive diagnostic tests and efficient therapies for infectious processes. Nuclear medicine procedures are part of the evaluation armamentarium of patients with suspected or confirmed infection. Their strength relies on the fact that they are noninvasive tests that provide both functional as well as metabolic information early in the course of disease. Their limitations relate to the need for specific radiotracers and the rather low resolution of images. These limitations have been largely overcome by the hybrid PET/CT and SPECT/CT technology. PET/CT, primarily using FDG, is redefining the diagnostic work up and is currently leading to changes in the management of patients with suspected or known infections. The main indications for FDG PET/CT in infection, as well as updated literature results, are presented in the following review.
PET and PET/CT in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Gaemperli Oliver , Kaufmann Philipp A.
Published: June 2011

The present review provides an overview of the role of cardiac positron emission tomography in the diagnosis and management of cardiovascular disease. It expands on the relative advantages and disadvantages over other imaging modalities as well as the available evidence supporting its value in the diagnosis and management of patients with coronary artery disease, the assessment of myocardial viability, and evaluation of the cardiac sympathetic nervous system. Furthermore, the recent developments, such as the implementation of high‐end computed tomography devices to form hybrid systems, and the advances of molecular imaging probes in experimental applications are briefly discussed.
PET/CT imaging in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Curiel Rodolfo , Akin Esma A. , Beaulieu Gregory , DePalma Louis , Hashefi Mandana
Published: June 2011

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the classical immune‐complex disease. Involvement of vital organs, particularly the kidneys and brain, accounts for significant morbidity and mortality. A number of imaging tools are currently available for evaluation of inflammatory conditions. By targeting the increased glucose uptake of infiltrating granulocytes and tissue macrophages, positron emission tomography with fluorine‐18 fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG PET/CT) has been shown to delineate inflammation with high sensitivity. Because activated lymphocytes have increased glucose metabolism, [18F]FDG PET has been successfully used to visualize large concentrations of these cells in lymphoid organs where antigen presentation and lymphocyte activation occur. Widespread increased FDG uptake in lymph nodes of patients with active SLE, as well as increased thymic uptake, has been described. The most prevalent and dramatic PET/CT finding in neuropsychiatric SLE (NP‐SLE) patients is parieto‐occipital hypometabolism. In conclusion, PET/CT has become an excellent ancillary tool to assess disease activity and prognosis in SLE patients.
Future and upcoming non‐neoplastic applications of PET/CT imaging
Authors: Hashefi Mandana , Curiel Rodolfo
Published: June 2011

The role of fluoro‐2‐deoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) in the diagnosis, staging, and monitoring of neoplastic conditions is well established. The clinical utility of PET/CT has now expanded to the diagnosis of autoimmune, inflammatory, infectious, as well as non‐neoplastic conditions, such as the vasculitides, atherosclerosis, and granulomatous conditions, including sarcoidosis and inflammatory bowel disease, in addition to a variety of neurologic disorders. The availability of new PET radiotracers is expected to expand PET/CT applications to a variety of other clinical domains. New radioligands for studying inflammation and neurodegenerative processes are under development. Here, we discuss the evolving potential role of PET imaging for the evaluation and monitoring of miscellaneous conditions, including osteoarthritis, interstitial lung disease, vascular thromboses, and osteoporosis.
Widespread Tau and Amyloid‐Beta Pathology Many Years After a Single Traumatic Brain Injury in Humans
Authors: Johnson Victoria E. , Stewart William , Smith Douglas H.
Published: June 2011

While a history of a single traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with the later development of syndromes of cognitive impairment such as Alzheimer's disease, the long‐term pathology evolving after single TBI is poorly understood. However, a progressive tauopathy, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, is described in selected cohorts with a history of repetitive concussive/mild head injury. Here, post‐mortem brains from long‐term survivors of just a single TBI (1–47 years survival; n = 39) vs. uninjured, age‐matched controls (n = 47) were examined for neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and amyloid‐β (Aβ) plaques using immunohistochemistry and thioflavine‐S staining. Detailed maps of findings permitted classification of pathology using semiquantitative scoring systems. NFTs were exceptionally rare in young, uninjured controls, yet were abundant and widely distributed in approximately one‐third of TBI cases. In addition, Aβ‐plaques were found in a greater density following TBI vs. controls. Moreover, thioflavine‐S staining revealed that while all plaque‐positive control cases displayed predominantly diffuse plaques, 64% of plaque‐positive TBI cases displayed predominantly thioflavine‐S‐positive plaques or a mixed thioflavine‐S‐positive/diffuse pattern. These data demonstrate that widespread NFT and Aβ plaque pathologies are present in up to a third of patients following survival of a year or more from a single TBI. This suggests that a single TBI induces long‐term neuropathological changes akin to those found in neurodegenerative disease.
Evaluation of a Nurse Practitioner Disease Management Model for Chronic Heart Failure: A Multi‐Site Implementation Study
Authors: Lowery Julie , Hopp Faith , Subramanian Usha , Wiitala Wyndy , Welsh Deborah E. , Larkin Angela , Stemmer Karen , Zak Cassandra , Vaitkevicius Peter
Published: June 2011

While disease management appears to be effective in selected, small groups of CHF patients from randomized controlled trials, its effectiveness in a broader CHF patient population is not known. This prospective, quasi‐experimental study compared patient outcomes under a nurse practitioner‐led disease management model (intervention group) with outcomes under usual care (control group) in both primary and tertiary medical centers. The study included 969 veterans (458 intervention, 511 control) treated for CHF at six VA medical centers. Intervention patients had significantly fewer (p<0.05) CHF and all‐cause admissions at one‐year follow‐up, and lower mortality at both one‐ and two‐year follow‐up. These data provide support for the potential effectiveness of the intervention, and suggest that the evidence from RCTs of disease management models for CHF can be translated into clinical practice, even without the benefits of a selected patient population and dedicated resources often found in RCTs. Congest Heart Fail. 2012;18:64–71. ©2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Central Hemodynamics and Cardiovascular Risk in Nondippers
Authors: Coleman Cameron T. , Stowasser Michael , Jenkins Carly , Marwick Thomas H. , Sharman James E.
Published: June 2011

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2011;13:557–562. ©2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Failure of blood pressure (BP) to decline appropriately overnight (nondipping) is associated with increased risk. This may be due to inappropriately raised supine central BP and this study’s first aim was to examine this hypothesis. Secondly, aortic stiffness, central hemodynamics, and left ventricular (LV) mass were measured as other possible mechanisms of higher risk. Brachial and central BP (supine and seated), aortic stiffness, central hemodynamics, and LV dimensions were measured in 95 patients with hypertension (mean age 62±8 standard deviation). Central hemodynamics were recorded by combined radial tonometry and 3‐dimensional echocardiography. Seated brachial and central systolic BP (SBP) were similar between dippers (n=52) and nondippers (n=43). However, nondippers had higher supine brachial (132±14 mm Hg vs 126±11 mm Hg; P=.029) and central (121±15 mm Hg vs 115±11 mm Hg; P=.024) SBP. Aortic stiffness was not different between groups (P=.76), but LV mass index (33.0±6.2 vs 29.4±7.2 g/m2.7; P=.019), stroke volume index (30.2±6.2 mL/m2 vs 27.4±6.0 mL/m2; P=.040), and LV stroke work (3246±815 mm Hg/mL/m2 vs 2778±615 mm Hg/mL/m2; P=.005) were all higher in nondippers. Dipper status independently predicted LV mass index (β=3.61; P=.001). Nondippers have higher supine brachial and central SBP, significantly different central hemodynamics, and elevated LV mass index compared with dippers. These cardiovascular anomalies possibly contribute to increased mortality risk.
A comparison of created and ancient fenland using ground beetles as a measure of conservation value
Authors: MARTAY BLAISE , HUGHES FRANCINE , DOBERSKI JULIAN
Published: June 2011

Abstract. 1. Ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) were used to assess the conservation value of created and undrained fenland on Wicken Fen, UK. We investigated whether the number of years since agricultural use affected the numbers of Nationally Scarce and wetland ground beetles on created fens. We also compared the created wetland with ancient undrained fenland.

2. Common wetland ground beetles increased with time since agricultural use. However, Nationally Scarce ground beetles did not increase over time. All areas of created wetland had fewer Nationally Scarce and common wetland ground beetles than undrained fenland except for the area not used for agriculture for 60 years. This area had fewer Nationally Scarce ground beetles than undrained fenland but not significantly fewer common wetland ground beetles.

3. The proportion of wetland ground beetles with high dispersal abilities did not vary in relation to time since agricultural use or distance from the nearest drainage ditch, indicating that dispersal did not limit colonisation. Therefore, proximity between the created wetland and established fenlands was not essential for wetland species to colonise the new habitat.

4. The ground beetle assemblage was influenced by soil moisture, cover of grasses and vegetation density. Of these variables, high soil moisture and low vegetation density increased the abundance of Nationally Scarce and common wetland ground beetles. High vegetation density was more detrimental to Nationally Scarce ground beetles than to common wetland beetles. Decreasing the vegetation density by increasing the grazing intensity on created wetland may increase the abundance of Nationally Scarce ground beetles.
The Littorina sequence database (LSD) – an online resource for genomic data
Authors: CANBÄCK BJÖRN , ANDRÉ CARL , GALINDO JUAN , JOHANNESSON KERSTIN , JOHANSSON TOMAS , PANOVA MARINA , TUNLID ANDERS , BUTLIN ROGER
Published: June 2011

We present an interactive, searchable expressed sequence tag database for the periwinkle snail Littorina saxatilis, an upcoming model species in evolutionary biology. The database is the result of a hybrid assembly between Sanger and 454 sequences, 1290 and 147 491 sequences respectively. Normalized and non‐normalized cDNA was obtained from different ecotypes of L. saxatilis collected in the UK and Sweden. The Littorina sequence database (LSD) contains 26 537 different contigs, of which 2453 showed similarity with annotated proteins in UniProt. Querying the LSD permits the selection of the taxonomic origin of blast hits for each contig, and the search can be restricted to particular taxonomic groups. The database allows access to UniProt annotations, blast output, protein family domains (PFAM) and Gene Ontology. The database will allow users to search for genetic markers and identifying candidate genes or genes for expression analyses. It is open for additional deposition of sequence information for L. saxatilis and other species of the genus Littorina. The LSD is available at http://mbio‐serv2.mbioekol.lu.se/Littorina/.
optiFLP: software for automated optimization of amplified fragment length polymorphism scoring parameters
Authors: ARTHOFER W. , SCHLICK‐STEINER B. C. , STEINER F. M.
Published: June 2011

Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP), a widely used method for DNA fingerprinting, has shifted from polyacrylamide gel to capillary electrophoresis over the last years. Currently, most AFLP data are generated in a computer‐readable format, and several programs are available that automatically score raw data into binary profiles. Good scoring parameters are the key to good AFLP profiles. optiFLP is the first open source program for automatic optimization of AFLP scoring parameters. It searches parameter space to maximize the contrast among groups of AFLP profiles, with the allocation of profiles to groups in either a supervised or an unsupervised mode. The software produces output files ready for use in a range of downstream applications.
Constitutive activation of the ETS‐1‐miR‐222 circuitry in metastatic melanoma
Authors: Mattia Gianfranco , Errico M. Cristina , Felicetti Federica , Petrini Marina , Bottero Lisabianca , Tomasello Luisa , Romania Paolo , Boe Alessandra , Segnalini Patrizia , Di Virgilio Antonio , Colombo Mario P. , Carè Alessandra
Published: June 2011

MicroRNAs‐221 and ‐222 are highly upregulated in several solid tumors, including melanomas. We demonstrate that the proto‐oncogene ETS‐1, involved in the pathogenesis of cancers of different origin, is a transcriptional regulator of miR‐222 by direct binding to its promoter region. Differently from 293FT cells or early stage melanomas, where unphosphorylated ETS‐1 represses miR‐222 transcription, in metastatic melanoma the constitutively Thr‐38 phosphorylated fraction of ETS‐1 induces miR‐222. Despite its stepwise decreased expression along with melanoma progression, the oncogenic activity of ETS‐1 relies on its RAS/RAF/ERK‐dependent phosphorylation status more than on its total amount. To close the loop, we demonstrate ETS‐1 as a direct target of miR‐222, but not miR‐221, showing the novel option of their uncoupled functions. In addition, a spatial redistribution of ETS‐1 protein from the nucleus to the cytoplasm is also evidenced in advanced melanoma cells. Finally, in vivo studies confirmed the contribution of miR‐222 to the increased invasive potential obtained by ETS‐ silencing.
Prevalence of Coxiella Burnetii in Ticks After a Large Outbreak of Q Fever
Authors: Sprong H. , Tijsse‐Klasen E. , Langelaar M. , De Bruin A. , Fonville M. , Gassner F. , Takken W. , Van Wieren S. , Nijhof A. , Jongejan F. , Maassen C. B. M. , Scholte E.‐J. , Hovius J. W. , Emil Hovius K. , Špitalská E. , Van Duynhoven Y. T.
Published: June 2011

Q fever has emerged as an important human and veterinary public health problem in the Netherlands with major outbreaks in three consecutive years. Goat farms are probably the prime source from which Coxiella burnetii have spread throughout the environment, infecting people living in the vicinity. Coxiella burnetii infection not only spilled over from animal husbandry to humans but could also have spread to neighbouring wildlife and pets forming novel reservoirs and consequently posing another and lingering threat to humans, companion animals and livestock. In these cases, transmission routes other than airborne spread of contaminated aerosols may become significant. Therefore, the role of ticks in the transmission of Coxiella burnetii in the current situation was investigated. A total of 1891 questing Ixodes ricinus ticks and 1086 ticks feeding on pets, wildlife and livestock were tested by a recently developed multiplex Q‐PCR. All ticks were negative, except for a few ticks feeding on a herd of recently vaccinated sheep. Coxiella‐positive ticks were not detected after resampling this particular herd three months later. Based on these data we conclude that the current risk of acquiring Q fever from questing ticks in the Netherlands is negligible. However, for future risk assessments, it might be relevant to sample more ticks in the vicinity of previously C. burnetii infected goat farms and to assess whether C. burnetii can be transmitted transovarially and transstadially in I. ricinus ticks.
The Prevalence of Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Colonization in Feedlot Cattle
Authors: Weese J. S. , Hannon S. J. , Booker C. W. , Gow S. , Avery B. P. , Reid‐Smith R. J.
Published: June 2011

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is an important human pathogen and recent evidence has implicated food animals in the epidemiology of human infections in some regions. While the role of food in MRSA transmission and human health relevance are unclear, MRSA can be found in retail meat products internationally, including beef, yet there has been minimal investigation of MRSA in beef cattle. This study involved screening feedlot cattle for nasal and gastrointestinal colonization with MRSA shortly before the time of slaughter. Methicillin‐resistant S. aureus was not isolated from any of 491 nasal swabs and 488 faecal samples. This finding is in contrast to studies that have isolated MRSA from retail beef in Canada, performed in the same laboratory using comparable culture techniques. The reason for this discrepancy is unclear but it demonstrates that further study of MRSA in livestock as well as slaughter, processing and retail environments is needed to elucidate the epidemiology of MRSA contamination of meat.
Aerobic exercise improves insulin resistance and decreases body fat and serum levels of leptin in patients with hepatitis C virus
Authors: Konishi Ichiro , Hiasa Yoichi , Tokumoto Yoshio , Abe Masanori , Furukawa Shinya , Toshimitsu Kumiko , Matsuura Bunzo , Onji Morikazu
Published: June 2011

Aim:  Hepatitis C virus infection often complicates glucose intolerance, which can be caused by insulin resistance. Aerobic exercise can improve insulin resistance and decrease body fat in patients with diabetes. The aim of the present study is to clarify whether aerobic exercise improves insulin resistance and decreases body fat in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CH‐C).

Methods:  Seventeen patients with CH‐C received nutrition education at entry and every two months thereafter. The following were evaluated before and after 6 months of walking at least 8000 steps/day monitored using a pedometer that started 2 months after entry: body composition, fat and muscle weight, visceral and subcutaneous fat areas (VFA and SFA, respectively), liver function tests, the Homeostatic Model of Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA‐IR), serum tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), interleukin (IL)‐6, adiponectin, leptin and the Short Form‐36.

Results:  Fifteen of the 17 patients completed the study protocol. Bodyweight, body mass index, fat weight, VFA, SFA, alanine aminotransferase level and HOMA‐IR were significantly decreased at the end of the study (P = 0.004, =0.004, =0.008, =0.041, =0.001, =0.023 and =0.002, respectively). Serum levels of TNF‐α, IL‐6 and adiponectin did not change, whereas those of leptin significantly decreased (P = 0.002).

Conclusion:  Patients with CH‐C could safely walk as aerobic exercise. Furthermore, walking improved insulin resistance and decreased body fat while lowering serum levels of leptin.
Detection of D‐3‐phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase autoantibodies in patients with autoimmune hepatitis: Clinical significance evaluation
Authors: Xiang Daijun , Xia Qing , Chen Dexi , Feng Xia , Zhao Yan , Liu Yan , Liao Huiyu , Liu Yanmin , Li Ning , Yan Huiping
Published: June 2011

Aim:  D‐3‐phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (3‐PHGDH) was identified as a putative target of autoantibodies in autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). The aims of the present study were to detect anti‐3‐PHGDH in patients with AIH and other chronic liver diseases and to analyze their clinical relevance.

Methods:  Human 3‐PHGDH gene was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli and used in enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays and Western blots. Serum from patients with AIH (n = 101), primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC, n = 122), chronic hepatitis C (CHC, n = 117), chronic hepatitis B (CHB, n = 112), and from patients with other autoimmune disease (n = 125) were investigated.

Results:  The highest incidence and activity of anti‐PHGDH was observed in AIH patients. Thirty‐two of 40 untreated (80%) and 37 of 61 AIH patients treated with corticosteroid (60.7%) were positive. Antibody titers decreased significantly during corticosteroid treatment. 15.8% of PBC patients, 9.8% of CHB and 12.8% of CHC patients, were anti‐PHGDH‐positive, with less than 12% of patients positive with other autoimmune diseases via reactions with recombinant 3‐PHGDH protein.

Conclusion:  Anti‐PHGDH were detected in chronic liver diseases. They occur predominantly in AIH, and corticosteroid treatment seems to decrease antibody titers. Whether the antibodies are primary or secondary phenomena and whether they are related to the etiology or pathogenesis, at least in a subgroup of patients with chronic liver diseases, has still to be evaluated.