bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of the health‐related quality of life of patients who are newly diagnosed with lung cancer in China
Authors: Cai Chunfeng , Zhou Zongkui , Yu Liping , Wan Yonghui
Published: June 2011

The purpose of this study was to explore the level and predictors of the health‐related quality of life among patients who were newly diagnosed with lung cancer in China. A descriptive survey design was used to collect the data from 108 patients. The relationships among the variables were analyzed by using Pearson's correlation and multiple regression analyses. The results indicated that the patients in this sample had a poor quality of life in the physical, psychological, and environmental domains of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire. Their age, annual family income, social support, and three dimensions of the health locus of control (internal, external, and chance) correlated significantly with the global quality of life. The stepwise multiple regressions showed that only the internal locus of control was statistically significant in predicting the patients' quality of life. The results suggest that healthcare professionals should pay particular attention to demographic characteristics, such as age and family income, and personal characteristics, such as the health locus of control and social support, when treating this patient group.
Life after cervical cancer: Quality of life among Chinese women
Authors: Zeng Ying Chun , Li Dingmei , Loke Alice Yuen
Published: June 2011

This study explored the meaning of “quality of life” among Chinese survivors of cervical cancer and the impact of cervical cancer survivorship on these women's quality of life. Written responses were used as the means of data collection. The qualitative data were analyzed by using a qualitative content analysis. The meaning of “quality of life”, as perceived by 35 Chinese survivors of cervical cancer, included being free of disease, having a good standard of living, having a harmonious family atmosphere, and having a harmonious sex life. The impact of cervical cancer on the Chinese women's quality of life included physical and psychological sequelae, family distress, financial burden, and disruptions to their social functioning and sexual life. Nevertheless, there were positive gains that were reported by these survivors, including changes in their outlook on life, treasuring their life, and better family relationships. This study revealed that the Chinese survivors of cervical cancer identified their sexual life as one of the essential indicators of quality of life. It is necessary to raise nurses' awareness so that women's sexuality‐related concerns are addressed. Health professionals also should provide relevant supportive care in order to address this target population's physical and psychosocial needs across the survivorship continuum.
The Spatial Ecology of Power: Long‐Distance Trade and State Formation in Northeast Africa
Authors: MAKKI FOUAD
Published: June 2011

This study examines the longue durée pattern of state formation in northeast Africa by situating its determinate dynamics within a wider constellation of social‐property relations and inter‐regional exchange networks. Given the social dynamics of tributary relations, increases in surplus extraction typically took the form of extensive territorial expansion rather than intensive augmentation of production, and the supply of means of coercion (weapons) and means of persuasion (luxury goods) with which to build retinues and alliances was a crucial determinant of the persistent oscillations between centralized rule and periods of pronounced regional autonomy. The sustained spatiality of power in the region was consequently shaped by the uneven and combined dynamics of production and exchange relations rather than by any simple dominance of one over the other. Within the more inclusive spatiotemporal framework adopted here, it is their historical imbrications rather than their idealized juxtapositions that calls for critical analysis and social explanation.
In the Name of Reason: Colonial Liberalism and the Government of West Indian Indentureship
Authors: WAHAB AMAR
Published: June 2011

One year after the first importation of coolie labourers from India to Trinidad in 1845 there were numerous reports of physical, occupational, and psychic abuse perpetrated by planters and estate managers against indentured labourers. This paper presents a genealogical footprint of the tormented existence of these labourers under a system of quasi‐slavery paradoxically at a moment when British colonial governance aimed to reinvent itself via the indentureship scheme, as humanitarian, benevolent and indispensable to the improvement of Indian subjects. Based on the court testimonies of a case concerning planter brutality against coolie, the paper foregrounds a legal‐administrative recalculation and redistribution of the semiotics of disciplinary power in an effort to consolidate the sovereignty of the liberal colonial state.
WRKY transcription factors: key components in abscisic acid signalling
Authors: Rushton Deena L. , Tripathi Prateek , Rabara Roel C. , Lin Jun , Ringler Patricia , Boken Ashley K. , Langum Tanner J. , Smidt Lucas , Boomsma Darius D. , Emme Nicholas J. , Chen Xianfeng , Finer John J. , Shen Qingxi J. , Rushton Paul J.
Published: June 2011

WRKY transcription factors (TFs) are key regulators of many plant processes, including the responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, senescence, seed dormancy and seed germination. For over 15 years, limited evidence has been available suggesting that WRKY TFs may play roles in regulating plant responses to the phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA), notably some WRKY TFs are ABA‐inducible repressors of seed germination. However, the roles of WRKY TFs in other aspects of ABA signalling, and the mechanisms involved, have remained unclear. Recent significant progress in ABA research has now placed specific WRKY TFs firmly in ABA‐responsive signalling pathways, where they act at multiple levels. In Arabidopsis, WRKY TFs appear to act downstream of at least two ABA receptors: the cytoplasmic PYR/PYL/RCAR‐protein phosphatase 2C‐ABA complex and the chloroplast envelope–located ABAR–ABA complex. In vivo and in vitro promoter‐binding studies show that the target genes for WRKY TFs that are involved in ABA signalling include well‐known ABA‐responsive genes such as ABF2, ABF4, ABI4, ABI5, MYB2, DREB1a, DREB2a and RAB18. Additional well‐characterized stress‐inducible genes such as RD29A and COR47 are also found in signalling pathways downstream of WRKY TFs. These new insights also reveal that some WRKY TFs are positive regulators of ABA‐mediated stomatal closure and hence drought responses. Conversely, many WRKY TFs are negative regulators of seed germination, and controlling seed germination appears a common function of a subset of WRKY TFs in flowering plants. Taken together, these new data demonstrate that WRKY TFs are key nodes in ABA‐responsive signalling networks.
REMITTANCES AND FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENT: SUBSTITUTES OR COMPLEMENTS IN ECONOMIC GROWTH?
Authors: Bettin Giulia , Zazzaro Alberto
Published: June 2011

Recent studies indicate that the effect of migrants’ remittances on the economic growth of receiving countries depends negatively on the level of development of the domestic financial sector. In this paper, we introduce a new indicator of financial development to measure the efficiency of the domestic banking system, and find the existence of complementarity between remittances and bank efficiency in economic growth, such that remittances promote growth only in countries whose banks function well. This result is robust to controls for other traditional measures of financial depth and institutional quality indicators.
An improved procedure for detection of heart arrhythmias with novel pre‐processing techniques
Authors: Ghorbanian P. , Jalali A. , Ghaffari A. , Nataraj C.
Published: June 2011

The objective of this study is to develop an algorithm to detect and classify six types of electrocardiogram (ECG) signal beats including normal beats (N), atrial pre‐mature beats (A), right bundle branch block beats (R), left bundle branch block beats (L), paced beats (P), and pre‐mature ventricular contraction beats (PVC or V) using a neural network classifier. In order to prepare an appropriate input vector for the neural classifier several pre‐processing stages have been applied. Initially, a signal filtering method is used to remove the ECG signal baseline wandering. Continuous wavelet transform is then applied in order to extract features of the ECG signal. Next, principal component analysis is used to reduce the size of the data. A well‐known neural network architecture called the multi‐layered perceptron neural network is then utilized as the final classifier to classify each ECG beat as one of six groups of signals under study. Finally, the MIT‐BIH database is used to evaluate the proposed algorithm, resulting in 99.5% sensitivity, 99.66% positive predictive accuracy and 99.17% total accuracy.
Halo naevi with associated vitiligo‐like depigmentations: pathogenetic hypothesis
Authors: van Geel N. , Speeckaert R. , Lambert J. , Mollet I. , De Keyser S. , De Schepper S. , Brochez L.
Published: June 2011

Background  In analogy with melanoma‐associated leucoderma, halo naevi may trigger in some patients the development of additional depigmentations which are in distribution, extent and prognosis not in accordance with classic vitiligo.

Objective  The aim of this study was to support the hypothesis that in a subset of halo naevi patients vitiligo‐like lesions develop directly linked to the halo phenomenon.

Methods  Forty‐one patients with halo naevi were examined for the development of depigmentations not corresponding to typical vitiligo lesions.

Results  We identified a subset of five halo naevi patients with additional subtle depigmentations. After the occurrence of multiple halo naevi, they developed leucoderma that showed a different disease pattern than vitiligo (variable asymmetric distribution, limited extent and lack of progression). Moreover, the characteristics of these halo naevi patients with associated leucoderma were different from classic vitiligo patients (high number of halo naevi, absence of family history for vitiligo and absence of autoimmune diseases) and the timing of occurrence of the leucoderma suggested a direct relation with the halo phenomenon.

Conclusions  In this article, we describe in a limited subset of patients with multiple halo naevi discrete depigmentations at distance from halo naevi which may result from a temporary autoimmune process directly linked to the halo phenomenon. This finding illustrates the collateral damage resulting from skin immunosurveillance and may have clinical consequences as the evolution pattern in this subset of patients is less progressive compared with vitiligo. We present clinical data that support this hypothesis and suggest to call it ‘halo naevi‐associated leucoderma’.
Corrective eyeglasses and medial canthal basal cell carcinoma: a case‐control study
Authors: Resende M. , Hercos A.C. , Miot H.A.
Published: June 2011

Background  Corrective eyeglasses are frequently worn by adults, particularly at older ages. Their lenses and frames provide ultraviolet protection. Medial canthal basal cell carcinomas are infrequent (3–8%), and their relation with the use of corrective glasses was not yet investigated.

Objectives  To assess the prevalence of corrective eyeglasses use in individuals with medial canthal basal cell carcinoma.

Methods  Case‐control study using two controls matched by age, gender, and ethnicity for each case. Cases were patients with medial canthal basal cell carcinoma, and controls were patients with basal cell carcinoma elsewhere on the face. The prevalence of major risk variables was estimated and adjusted by conditional multiple logistic regression.

Results  Fifty cases and 100 controls were assessed. The mean patient age was 69.7 years, and 54% of the subjects were females. No difference regarding the eyeglasses use or use duration was found between groups. However, when visual defects were separately evaluated, eyeglasses for myopia correction were independently associated with lower risk of medial canthal basal cell carcinoma development (OR = 0.26; P = 0.03), what can be related to long term local photoprotection.

Conclusion  The use of eyeglasses for myopia correction is associated with lower prevalence of medial cantal basal cell carcinoma. Risk‐reducing mechanisms should be elucidated.
Investigation of Springback of Metallic Sheets at Small Strains
Authors: Manach P. Y. , Thuillier S.
Published: June 2011

Abstract:   The bending process of an aluminium alloy and a high‐strength steel is analysed using the cylindrical bending test of Numisheet 2002 (Proceedings of the 5th International conference and workshop on numerical simulation of 3D sheet forming processes, 2002, Jeju Island, South Korea). Despite its simplicity, it is now well known that this test is difficult to reproduce numerically. Indeed, it involves small plastic strains but large springback and exhibits complex contact boundary conditions providing severe benchmark characteristics. In order to obtain reliable results to be used for the validation of finite element models or simulations, particular attention has been paid to the fine measurement of several experimental parameters using a high‐resolution video camera. Several geometrical and contact parameters, as well as the springback angle, are determined. The springback results are compared with analytical results obtained using a classical bending model. It is shown that the agreement is good if the work‐hardening is identified within a small strain range, corresponding to the one covered during the test, as it mainly involves small deformations, pure bending and a weak anticlastic effect. Moreover, the decrease in the apparent modulus as a function of plastic strain leads to a more accurate measurement of the variation in the springback angle.
Indolinones and anilinophthalazines differentially target VEGF‐A‐ and basic fibroblast growth factor‐mediated responses in primary human endothelial cells
Authors: Latham AM , Bruns AF , Kankanala J , Johnson AP , Fishwick CWG , Homer‐Vanniasinkam S , Ponnambalam S
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The potent pro‐angiogenic growth factors VEGF‐A and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) exert their effects by binding VEGF receptor 2 and FGF receptor tyrosine kinases, respectively. Indolinones (e.g. SU5416 and Sutent) and anilinophthalazines (e.g. PTK787) are potent small molecule inhibitors of VEGFR2 and other tyrosine kinases, but their effects on VEGF‐A‐ and bFGF‐stimulated endothelial responses are unclear. Here we assess the ability of these compounds to inhibit pro‐angiogenic responses through perturbation of receptor activity and endothelial function(s).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We used in silico modelling, in vitro tyrosine kinase assays, biochemistry and microscopy to evaluate the effects of small molecules on receptor tyrosine kinase activation and intracellular signalling. Primary human endothelial cells were used to assess intracellular signalling, cell migration, proliferation and tubulogenesis.

KEY RESULTS We predicted that the anilinophthalazine PTK787 binds the tyrosine kinase activation loop whereas indolinones are predicted to bind within the hinge region of the split kinase domain. Sutent is a potent inhibitor of both VEGFR2 and FGFR1 tyrosine kinase activity in vitro. The compounds inhibit both ligand‐dependent and ‐independent VEGFR2 trafficking events, are not selective for endothelial cell responses and inhibit both VEGF‐A‐ and bFGF‐mediated migration, wound healing and tubulogenesis at low concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS We propose that these compounds have novel properties including inhibition of bFGF‐mediated endothelial responses and perturbation of VEGFR2 trafficking. Differential inhibitor binding to receptor tyrosine kinases translates into more potent inhibition of bFGF‐ and VEGF‐A‐mediated intracellular signalling, cell migration and tubulogenesis. Indolinones and anilinophthalazines thus belong to a class of multi‐kinase inhibitors that show clinical efficacy in disease therapy.
Induction of prolonged, continuous slow‐wave sleep by blocking cerebral H1 histamine receptors in rats
Authors: Ikeda‐Sagara Masami , Ozaki Tomoya , Shahid Mohammad , Morioka Eri , Wada Kazuma , Honda Kazuki , Hori Ayana , Matsuya Yuji , Toyooka Naoki , Ikeda Masayuki
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Classic H1 histamine receptor (H1R) antagonists are non‐selective for H1R and known to produce drowsiness. Modern antihistamines are more selective for H1R, and are ‘non‐drowsy’ presumably due to reduced permeability through the blood‐brain barrier. To characterize both histaminergic sleep regulation and the central actions of antihistamines, in the present study we analysed the effect of classic and modern antihistamines on rats' sleep using continuous i.c.v. infusions.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Effects of classic (d‐chlorpheniramine; d‐CPA) and second‐generation (cetirizine) antihistamines on sleep were compared after i.p. injections or continuous i.c.v. infusions into rats. Fluorescent cetirizine/DBD‐pz was synthesized to trace the approximate distribution of cerebral cetirizine. Furthermore, the effects of H1R antagonists on cultured preoptic neurons were examined using calcium imaging.

KEY RESULTS d‐CPA 4 mg·kg−1 i.p. increased non‐rapid eye movement (REM) sleep whereas 10–40 mg·kg−1d‐CPA decreased non‐REM sleep at dark onset time. Nocturnal i.c.v. infusions of d‐CPA (10 µmol·100 µL−1·10 h−1) increased drowsiness but not non‐REM sleep, whereas the same i.c.v. infusions of cetirizine significantly increased non‐REM sleep, abolished REM sleep, and decreased wakefulness for more than 10 h. The medial preoptic area contained the greatest fluorescent labelling after i.c.v. cetirizine/DBD‐pz infusions. Histamine‐induced Ca2+ increases in medial preoptic neurons were blocked by d‐CPA or cetirizine, whereas d‐CPA, but not cetirizine, increased Ca2+ irrespective of antihistaminergic activity at ≥100 µM.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS The excitatory action of d‐CPA may explain the seemingly inconsistent actions of d‐CPA on sleep. Cerebral H1R inhibition by cetirizine induces synchronization of cerebral activity and prolonged, continuous slow‐wave sleep.
DWI Findings of Optic Nerve Ischemia in the Setting of Central Retinal Artery Occlusion
Authors: Kilani Ramsey , Marshall Lee , Koch Spencer , Fernandez Mark , Postel Eric
Published: June 2011

A 67‐year‐old African‐American male with untreated hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes mellitus presented with sudden, staggering, progressive loss of vision in his left eye over the course of 8 days. Ophthalmologic and fluorescein angiography exams confirmed central retinal artery conclusion, but revealed no embolus. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain serendipitously revealed restricted diffusion within the distal left optic nerve, illustrating a more proximal occlusion, which matched the fluorescein angiographic findings. Extensive workup revealed no embolic source, postulating primary hypertension as the underlying etiology.
Juvenile Psammomatoid Ossifying Fibroma with Visual Disturbance: A Case Report with Imaging Features
Authors: Nakajima Reiko , Saito Naoko , Uchino Akira , Kuji Ichiei , Suzuki Tomonari , Nishikawa Ryo , Yamaguchi Hiroshi , Kimura Fumiko
Published: June 2011

Juvenile psammomatoid ossifying fibroma (JPOF) of the sphenoid sinus is a rare subtype of ossifying fibroma of the sinonasal cavity and facial bone in young adults. Computed tomographic (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features of JPOF have been reported, but to our knowledge, positron emission tomography (PET) findings have not been described. We present a 19‐year‐old woman with right visual disturbance whom we diagnosed with JPOF and describe imaging findings in her case. CT revealed a well‐circumscribed fibro‐osseous mass surrounding the right optic canal, with expansile, mixed soft tissue and thick bone density. MR imaging showed low signal intensity in the mass on both T1‐ and T2‐weighted images. [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) and [11C]methyl‐L‐methionine ([11C]Met) PET/CT showed abnormal uptake in the lesion, with standardized uptake values (SUV) of 6.2 ([18F]FDG) and 4.6 ([11C]Met). Familiarity with the imaging features of this rare disease aids its differentiation from other more familiar lesions to permit appropriately aggressive therapy and improve prognosis.
Hippocampus: A “Forgotten” Border Zone of Brain Ischemia
Authors: Walha Kamel , Ricolfi Fréderic , Béjot Yannick , Nonent Michel , Ben Salem Douraied
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND

Hippocampus is selectively susceptible to ischemic damage and it could be, in some conditions, considered as a border zone of brain ischemia.

RESULTS

We illustrate this concept with three cases of hippocampal diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) restrictions secondary to a carotid artery dissection with an ipsilateral fetal posterior cerebral artery (PCA) in two cases and to global brain hypoperfusion consequent to a cardiac arrest in the last case.

CONCLUSION

The hypoperfusion induced by a cardiac arrest or an internal carotid dissection with an incomplete circle of Willis promotes hippocampal ischemia in the territories of the anterior choroidal artery and the longitudinal terminal segments of the hippocampal arteries.
Congenital External Carotid‐Internal Carotid Artery Anastomosis Diagnosed by MR Angiography
Authors: Uchino Akira , Saito Naoko , Watadani Takeyuki
Published: June 2011

We present what we believe is the first report of external carotid‐internal carotid artery anastomosis, which forms a large arterial ring at the proximal cervical internal carotid artery (ICA). If the small channel of the proximal cervical ICA is occluded, the remaining large channel of the external carotid artery may be diagnosed as a nonbifurcating cervical carotid artery.
Stroke following Epidural Injections—Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Popescu Alexandra , Lai Daniel , Lu Angela , Gardner Kathy
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To describe a growing number of cases associated with spinal cord and posterior circulation ischemia as a complication of cervical epidural steroid injection (CESI).

METHODS

Case report and review of literature.

RESULTS

Sixteen cases of spinal cord and posterior circulation ischemia were analyzed. Two cases had transient symptoms and 10 had long‐term sequelae. Four resulted in death.

CONCLUSION

Infarction is a rare but potentially devastating complication of CESI. It may occur despite the use of fluoroscopic guidance.
MRS Findings in Cerebral Coenurosis due to Taenia Multiceps
Authors: Ambekar Sudheer , Prasad Chandrajit , Dwarakanath Srinivas , Mahadevan Anitha
Published: June 2011

Cerebral coenurosis due to Taenia multiceps is a rare infection with no case reports from India. A 55‐year‐old male patient had presented with progressive symptoms of hemiparesis of 1‐year duration. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) of the lesion was performed that showed a septated cystic lesion in left parieto‐occipital lobe. Multivoxel MRS through the lesion was performed using repetition time of 1500 ms and time to echo of 144 ms at 3T MRI. MRS showed mildly elevated choline (Cho), depressed creatine (Cr), and N‐acetyl aspartate (NAA), a large peak of lactate, pyruvate, and acetate peaks. To best of our knowledge, there has been no reported case of in vivo proton MRS finding ever reported. We present MRS findings in this operatively proven case of T. multiceps cyst of the brain.
Portable Head Computed Tomography Scanner–Technology and Applications: Experience with 3421 Scans
Authors: Carlson Andrew P. , Yonas Howard
Published: June 2011

OBJECTIVE

The use of head computed tomography (CT) is standard in the management of acute brain injury; however, there are inherent risks of transport of critically ill patients. Portable CT can be brought to the patient at any location.

METHODS

We describe the clinical use of a portable head CT scanner (CereTom: NeuroLogica: Danvers, MA) that can be brought to the patient's bedside or to other locations such as the operating room or angiography suite.

RESULTS

Between June of 2006 and December of 2009, a total of 3421 portable CTs were performed. A total of 3278 (95.8%) were performed in the neuroscience intensive care unit (ICU) for an average of 2.6 neuroscience ICU CT scans per day. Other locations where CTs were performed included other ICUs (n= 97), the operating room (n= 53), the emergency department (n= 1), and the angiography suite (n= 2). Most studies were non‐contrasted head CT, though other modalities including xenon/CT, contrasted CT, and CT angiography were performed.

CONCLUSION

Portable head CT can reliably and consistently be performed at the patient's bedside. This should lead to decreased transportation‐related morbidity and improved rapid decision making in the ICU, OR, and other locations. Further studies to confirm this clinical advantage are needed.
The effect of myosin RLC phosphorylation in normal and cardiomyopathic mouse hearts
Authors: Muthu Priya , Kazmierczak Katarzyna , Jones Michelle , Szczesna‐Cordary Danuta
Published: June 2011

Phosphorylation of the myosin regulatory light chain (RLC) by Ca2+‐calmodulin–activated myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) is known to be essential for the inotropic function of the heart. In this study, we have examined the effects of MLCK‐phosphorylation of transgenic (Tg) mouse cardiac muscle preparations expressing the D166V (aspartic acid to valine)–RLC mutation, identified to cause familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with malignant outcomes. Our previous work with Tg‐D166V mice demonstrated a large increase in the Ca2+ sensitivity of contraction, reduced maximal ATPase and force and a decreased level of endogenous RLC phosphorylation. Based on studies demonstrating the beneficial and/or protective effects of cardiac myosin phosphorylation for heart function, we hypothesized that an ex vivo phosphorylation of Tg‐D166V cardiac muscle may rescue the detrimental contractile phenotypes observed earlier at the level of single myosin molecules and in Tg‐D166V papillary muscle fibres. We showed that MLCK‐induced phosphorylation of Tg‐D166V cardiac myofibrils and muscle fibres was able to increase the reduced myofibrillar ATPase and reverse an abnormally increased Ca2+ sensitivity of force to the level observed for Tg‐wild‐type (WT) muscle. However, in contrast to Tg‐WT, which displayed a phosphorylation‐induced increase in steady‐state force, the maximal tension in Tg‐D166V papillary muscle fibres decreased upon phosphorylation. With the exception of force generation data, our results support the notion that RLC phosphorylation works as a rescue mechanism alleviating detrimental functional effects of a disease causing mutation. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the mechanism of this unexpected phosphorylation‐induced decrease in maximal tension in Tg‐D166V–skinned muscle fibres.
Abdominal palpation to determine fetal position at labor onset: a test accuracy study
Authors: WEBB SARA S. , PLANA MARIA N. , ZAMORA JAVIER , AHMAD AISHAH , EARLEY BERNADETTE , MACARTHUR CHRISTINE , KHAN KHALID S.
Published: June 2011

Objective. To examine the accuracy of abdominal palpation for identifying left‐occipito‐anterior (LOA) fetal position using abdominal ultrasound as the reference standard. Design: Classical test accuracy study undertaken in 2005–2007. Setting: Birmingham Women's Foundation NHS Trust serving a large, socio‐economically and ethnically varied population. Sample. All nulliparous women with spontaneous or induced labor before established labor (cervix <4cm dilated), with a singleton live pregnancy of over 37 completed gestational weeks without known fetal abnormalities. Methods. Accuracy of abdominal palpation (index test) in identifying LOA fetal position, with abdominal ultrasound as reference. Trained observers blind to the index test results performed the ultrasound independently. Main outcome measures. Accuracy of palpation in determining LOA position. Results. Midwives’ abdominal palpation and ultrasound data were obtained from 629 women. There were 61 (9%) fetuses in LOA position that were verified by ultrasound. The sensitivity and specificity of palpation to detect LOA position were 34% (95%CI 23–46) and 71% (67–74), respectively. Midwives with experience >5 years achieved higher sensitivity compared to those with ≤5 years (odds ratio 4.02; 1.26–12.9; p=0.019). Sensitivity was higher for community compared with hospital midwives (OR 6.59; 1.11–39.11; p=0.038). Conclusions. Abdominal palpation to determine LOA position at the onset of labor had poor accuracy in nulliparous women on arrival at the maternity unit with a cervix dilation of <4cm. If future research demonstrates that an optimal fetal position at labor onset exists, ultrasound scan to confirm fetal position on arrival for birth may improve midwives’ ability to prognosticate.
Assessment of the Roles of Ordered Lipid Microdomains in Post‐Endocytic Trafficking of Glycosyl‐Phosphatidylinositol‐Anchored Proteins in Mammalian Fibroblasts
Authors: Refaei Mohammad , Leventis Rania , Silvius John R.
Published: June 2011

We have used artificial phosphatidylethanolamine‐polyethylene glycol (PE‐PEG)‐anchored proteins, incorporated into living mammalian cells, to evaluate previously proposed roles for ordered lipid ‘raft’ domains in the post‐endocytic trafficking of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)‐anchored proteins in CHO and BHK cells. In CHO cells, endocytosed PE‐PEG protein conjugates colocalized strongly with the internalized GPI‐anchored folate receptor, concentrating in the endosomal recycling compartment, regardless of the structure of the hydrocarbon chains of the PE‐PEG ‘anchor’. However, internalized PE‐PEG protein conjugates with long‐chain saturated anchors recycled to the plasma membrane at a slow rate comparable to that measured for the GPI‐anchored folate receptor, whereas conjugates with short‐chain or unsaturated anchors recycled at a faster rate similar to that observed for the transferrin receptor. These findings support the proposal (Mayor et al. Cholesterol‐dependent retention of GPI‐anchored proteins in endosomes. EMBO J 1998;17:4628–4638) that the slow recycling of GPI proteins in CHO cells rests on their affinity for ordered lipid domains. In BHK cells, internalized PE‐PEG protein conjugates with either saturated or unsaturated ‘anchors’ colocalized strongly with simultaneously endocytosed folate receptor and, like the folate receptor, gradually accumulated in late endosomes/lysosomes. These latter findings do not support previous suggestions that the sorting of GPI proteins to late endosomes in BHK cells depends on their association with lipid rafts.
‘It should be the most natural thing in the world’: exploring first‐time mothers' breastfeeding difficulties in the UK using audio‐diaries and interviews
Authors: Williamson Iain , Leeming Dawn , Lyttle Steven , Johnson Sally
Published: June 2011

Breastfeeding is a practice which is promoted and scrutinized in the UK and internationally. In this paper, we use interpretative phenomenological analysis to explore the experiences of eight British first‐time mothers who struggled with breastfeeding in the early post‐partum period. Participants kept audio‐diary accounts of their infant feeding experiences across a 7‐day period immediately following the birth of their infant and took part in related semi‐structured interviews a few days after completion of the diary. The overarching theme identified was of a tension between the participants' lived, embodied experience of struggling to breastfeed and the cultural construction of breastfeeding as ‘natural’ and trouble‐free. Participants reported particular difficulties interpreting the pain they experienced during feeds and their emerging maternal identities were threatened, often fluctuating considerably from feed to feed. We discuss some of the implications for breastfeeding promotion and argue for greater awareness and understanding of breastfeeding difficulties so that breastfeeding women are less likely to interpret these as a personal shortcoming in a manner which disempowers them. We also advocate the need to address proximal and distal influences around the breastfeeding dyad and, in particular, to consider the broader cultural context in the UK where breastfeeding is routinely promoted yet often constructed as a shameful act if performed in the public arena.
Is home birth a marker for severe malnutrition in early infancy in urban communities of low‐income countries?
Authors: Olusanya Bolajoko O. , Renner James K.
Published: June 2011

This matched case‐control study set out to determine the association between place of delivery and severe undernutrition in early infancy in a low‐income country. All infants (aged 0–3 months) with severe undernutrition attending four well‐child clinics for routine immunization in inner‐city Lagos, Nigeria were matched for age and sex with well‐nourished peers. The main outcome measures were the adjusted‐matched‐odds ratios from conditional logistic regression analysis of undernutrition based on z‐scores below −3 for weight‐for‐age, height/length‐for‐age and body‐mass‐index‐for‐age using current World Health Organization's Multicentre Growth Reference (WHO‐MGR). From an eligible population of 7075 mother‐infant pairs, 918 severely undernourished infants were enlisted as cases matched with 1836 controls. While there was no statistically significant difference between infants born outside hospitals as a group compared to those born in hospitals, infants delivered at residential homes compared to public hospitals had two‐to‐three fold odds of being severely underweight (p = 0.002), severely stunted (p < 0.001) and severely wasted (p = 0.008) after controlling for potential confounders. Infants delivered in private hospitals were also significantly associated with severe stunting (p = 0.032). This study demonstrates that delivery in homes and private hospitals are potential markers for severe undernutrition in early infancy in this urban population and merits closer attention in any early nutritional intervention in comparable settings of low‐income countries.
The Effects of Long-Term Androgen Deprivation Therapy on Penile Length in Patients with Prostate Cancer: A Single-Center, Prospective, Open-Label, Observational Study
Authors: Park Kyung Kgi , Lee Seung Hwan , Chung Byung Ha
Published: June 2011

Introduction

The adverse effects of long-term drug therapy for prostate cancer (PCa) can dramatically impact patient quality of life and are considered to be important factors when selecting treatment.

Aim

To assess stretched penile length before and after long-term androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for treatment of PCa.

Methods

From January 2008 to June 2010 at a single institution, 39 consecutive patients without distant metastases who were elected to receive ADT as initial therapy for PCa were prospectively enrolled. Exclusion criteria were history of penile anomalies and/or trauma, and prior radical prostate surgery or radiation therapy. Erectile functions were evaluated at baseline according to the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). Vertically stretched penile length was measured every 3 months from the pubopenile junction to the meatus with a spring scale.

Main Outcome Measure

After ADT, significant 3-month interval changes in stretched penile length were noted for up to 15 months (P < 0.001). The relationship between potency and penile shortening was not significant (P = 0.45).

Results

The mean patient age was 67.1 years. Before therapy, the mean stretched penile length was 10.76 cm. After 24 months of ADT, mean penile length had decreased to 8.05 cm. However, these changes plateaued after 15 months. Normal erectile function (EF) was reported by 41% of patients before therapy, while 10.5% reported normal EF at the 24-month follow-up. The relationship between potency and penile shortening was not significant. However, patients who preserved their potency tended to experience less penile shortening.

Conclusions

The administration of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists induced significant decreases in penile length for only up to 15 months in the absence of the confounding effects of surgery and radiation.
Acute myeloid leukaemia (M6B: pure acute erythroid leukaemia) in a Thoroughbred foal
Authors: Forbes G , Feary DJ , Savage CJ , Nath L , Church S , Lording P
Published: June 2011

A 10‐week‐old Thoroughbred filly was referred for anaemia of 4 weeks' duration. Haematology revealed severe anaemia and panleucopenia. Cytological examination of bone marrow smears revealed a myeloid to erythroid ratio <0.02:1 (reference range 0.5–2.4:1.0) and an abundance of erythroid precursor cells. The erythroid cell population included rubriblasts, prorubricytes and rubricytes, with only scant numbers of metarubricytes present. There were numerous mitotic erythroid cells, some of which were atypical and megaloblastic. These cytomorphological changes are consistent with pure acute erythroid leukaemia. No treatment was instituted and the filly died three days after presentation. This case illustrates the need to consider both haematology and bone marrow findings to establish a diagnosis of pure erythroid leukaemia. To our knowledge, there is no documented case of acute myeloproliferative disease in horses involving cells of erythroid lineage, but this condition should be considered a differential diagnosis for horses presenting with anaemia.
Serological evidence of Coxiella burnetii infection in beef cattle in Queensland
Authors: Cooper A , Hedlefs R , McGowan M , Ketheesan N , Govan B
Published: June 2011

Background  Queensland has the highest incidence of Q fever in Australia. The aim of this study was to undertake a cross‐sectional seroprevalence survey of Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever, in beef cattle in Queensland.

Methods  Serum samples were tested by ELISA for both phase II and phase I antigens of the organism using an Australian isolate. Blood samples were collected at an abattoir that processes beef cattle originating from northern and north‐western Queensland, in addition to blood samples taken from beef cattle across Queensland as part of a second survey.

Results  Seropositivity was 16.8% (95% confidence interval 16.7–16.8%).

Conclusion  Evidence of C. burnetii infection in beef cattle has public health implications for occupational exposure of primary producers and veterinarians and for the proximity of beef cattle properties to residential areas in regional Queensland. This study is the first known investigation of C. burnetii seroprevalence in beef cattle in Queensland and the first known use of an Australian C. burnetii isolate for screening using both phase II and phase I antigens.
In this issue – July 2011
Authors: Jackson AE
Published: June 2011

Disease control during the colonial period in Australia · Neurological diseases of ruminant livestock in Australia · Coxiella burnetii in beef cattle in Queensland · Desmotomy for flexural deformity in Thoroughbreds · Acute myeloid leukaemia in a Thoroughbred foal · Growth variants of Avibacterium paragallinarum · Volvulus in a dugong
Ultraviolet‐B Irradiation Induces Differential Regulations of Hyaluronidase Expression and Activity in Normal Human Keratinocytes
Authors: Kurdykowski Sandrine , Mine Solène , Bardey Vincent , Danoux Louis , Jeanmaire Christine , Pauly Gilles , Brabencova Eva , Wegrowski Yanusz , Maquart François Xavier
Published: June 2011

Skin aging is a complex process determined by genetic factors (intrinsic aging) and environmental factors (extrinsic aging). One of the most influential environmental factor is UV‐B irradiation. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is an abundant component of skin extracellular matrix where it plays many roles such as hydration and architectural support. Downregulation of HA during photoaging was reported previously. Changes in expression and function of its degrading enzymes, the hyaluronidases (Hyals) might be involved in this decrease. In the present study, normal human keratinocytes were submitted to increasing doses of UV‐B. The mRNA expression of HYAL1, HYAL2 and HYAL3 and the hyaluronidase enzymatic activity were quantified using real‐time PCR and a microtiter‐based assay, respectively. After UV‐B irradiation, HYAL1 mRNA expression was upregulated whereas HYAL2 and HYAL3 mRNAs were downregulated and hyaluronidase enzymatic activity was increased in both cell layer and culture medium. In parallel, immunohistochemical studies performed on UV‐B irradiated reconstructed epidermis confirmed that Hyal‐1, Hyal‐2 and Hyal‐3 protein expression were differently regulated by UV‐B. Taken together, our results demonstrate that UV‐B irradiation induces differential regulations of hyaluronidase expression and enzymatic activity in human keratinocytes. These differential modulations of hyaluronidase expression and activity by UV‐B could contribute to cutaneous photoaging.
Chemistry and Occurrences of Native Tellurium from Epithermal Gold Deposits in Japan
Authors: NAKATA Masataka , KOMURO Kosei
Published: June 2011

The chemistry and mode of occurrences of native tellurium in the epithermal gold ores from Teine, Kobetsuzawa, Mutsu, Kawazu, Suzaki and Iriki in Japan are examined. Mineral assemblages in contact with native tellurium are: quartz‐sylvanite at Teine, quartz‐hessite‐sylvanite‐tellurantimony at Kobetsuzawa, quartz at Mutsu, quartz‐stutzite‐hessite‐sylvanite‐tetradymite at Kawazu, quartz at Suzaki, and quartz‐goldfieldite at Iriki. The peak patterns of XRD for native tellurium from these six ores are nearly identical to that of JCPDS 4–554. Their chemical compositions of Te range from 98.16 to 100.73 wt.%, showing nearly pure tellurium. Other elements detected are: Se of 0–0.85 and Cu of 0–0.74 at Teine, Sb of 0.45–0.47 and Se of 0.19–0.27 at Kawazu, Se of 0.22–1.11 and Sb of 0–0.49 at Suzaki, and Cu of 0.69–0.98, As of 0.22–0.28 and Bi of 0–0.22 wt.% at Iriki. No other elements are detected in the ores of Kobetsuzawa and Mutsu. The ranges of associated minor compositions are consistent with those of the experimental phase. The differences would be related to associate minerals. The mineral assemblages in these ores agree well with the previously proposed experimental phase relations in Au‐Ag‐Te ternary system for 120–280°C. The Suzaki ore has high Te‐Au assemblage: from calaverite‐sylvanite‐krennerite via native tellurium to petzite, with changing mineralization stage, whereas the Kobetsuzawa and the Kawazu ores have high Te‐Ag assemblage of tellurium‐hessite, and native tellurium‐stutzite‐hessite‐sylvanite, respectively. The Teine ore has intermediate assemblage of native tellurium‐sylvanite. The mineral assemblages in the Au‐Ag‐Te system are related to the hydrothermal environment especially to the pH condition, i.e. Au rich assemblages under acidic and Ag rich assemblages under intermediate pH conditions, being supported by alteration mineral species. The other telluriferous epithermal gold deposits not in association with native tellurium such as Agawa, Date, Takeno, Chugu, Chitose, Sado and Kushikino are estimated to have been formed under higher pH conditions as adularia and calcite occur in these deposits. The pH‐Eh diagram for aqueous tellurium species and tellurium minerals at 250°C indicates that the region of native tellurium occurs between those of aqueous telluride and tellurous species at lower pH, being consistent with their mineral assemblages in ores and alteration envelopes.
Source Rock Characterization and Petroleum Systems in North Ghadames Basin, Southern Tunisia
Authors: AKROUT Dhaou , AFFOURI Hassène , AHMADI Riadh , MERCIER Eric , MONTACER Mabrouk
Published: June 2011

This paper presents geochemical analysis of drilled cutting samples from the OMZ‐2 oil well located in southern Tunisia. A total of 35 drill‐cutting samples were analyzed for Rock‐Eval pyrolysis, total organic carbon (TOC), bitumens extraction and liquid chromatography. Most of the Ordovician, Silurian and Triassic samples contained high TOC contents, ranging from 1.00 to 4.75% with an average value of 2.07%. The amount of hydrocarbon yield (pyrolysable hydrocarbon: S2b) expelled during pyrolysis indicates a good generative potential of the source rocks. The plot of TOC versus S2b, indicates a good to very good generative potential for organic matter in the Ordovician, Silurian and Lower Triassic. However, the Upper Triassic and the Lower Jurassic samples indicate fair to good generative potential. From the Vankrevelen diagram, the organic matter in the Ordovician, Silurian and Lower Triassic samples is mainly of type II kerogen and the organic matter from the Upper Triassic and the Lower Jurassic is dominantly type III kerogen with minor contributions from Type I. The thermal maturity of the organic matter in the analyzed samples is also evaluated based on the Tmax of the S2b peak. The Ordovician and Lower Silurian formations are thermally matured. The Upper Silurian and Triassic deposits are early matured to matured. However, Jurassic formations are low in thermal maturity. The total bitumen extracts increase with depth from the interval 1800–3000 m. This enrichment indicates that the trapping in situ in the source rocks and relatively short distance vertical migration can be envisaged in the overlying reservoirs. During the vertical migration from source rocks to the reservoirs, these hydrocarbons are probably affected by natural choromatography and in lower proportion by biodegradation.
Regional Exploration Targeting Model for Gangdese Porphyry Copper Deposits
Authors: ZUO Renguang
Published: June 2011

An exploration targeting model for Gangdese porphyry copper deposit in Tibet, China, is constructed based on (i) the age of porphyry intrusions within Gangdese magmatic arc; (ii) the regional‐scale normal E–W, N–S and N–E striking faults; and (iii) comprehensive anomalously high concentrations of Cu‐Mo‐Au‐Ag‐Pb‐Zn. These targeting elements are derived from geological map and geochemical dataset, and are integrated by weights of evidence with the aid of geographic information system (GIS). The resulting prospectivity for porphyry copper deposits delineated by posterior probability demonstrates that the target areas extend along the Yaluzangbujiang River and contain the two large deposits, Qulong and Chongjiang, located in the eastern and central part of the Gangdese belt, respectively. These results indicate that the proposed exploration targeting model is a potential tool to map regional‐scale mineral prospectivity. The target areas with high values of favorability, especially where high concentrations of Cu‐Mo‐Au‐Ag‐Pb‐Zn are present, are the potential areas for finding undiscovered porphyry copper deposits.
Instrument associated complication of a laparoscopic ovariectomy
Authors: Madron M. S. , Caston S. S. , Tracey A. K. , Kersh K. D.
Published: June 2011

The case reported here describes the retrieval of the end of a pair of laparoscopic forceps that became separated from the instrument shaft during a laparoscopic ovariectomy. This case details the procedures used to locate and remove the foreign body from the abdominal cavity. No complications associated with the intra‐abdominal foreign body occurred and the mare was discharged the following day.