bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of surgical wound drainage measurements: an analysis and comparison
Authors: Yue Brian , Nizzero Danielle , Zhang Chunxiao , van Zyl Natasha , Ting Jeannette
Published: May 2014

Background

Surgical drain tube readings can influence the clinical management of the post‐operative patient. The accuracy of these readings has not been documented in the current literature and this experimental study aims to address this paucity.

Methods

Aliquots (10, 25, 40 and 90 mL) of black tea solution prepared to mimic haemoserous fluid were injected into UnoVac, RedoVac and Jackson‐Pratt drain tubes. Nursing and medical staff from a tertiary hospital were asked to estimate drain volumes by direct observation; analysis of variance was performed on the results and significance level was set at 0.05.

Results

Doctors and nurses are equally accurate in estimating drain tube volumes. Jackson‐Pratt systems were found to be the most accurate for intermediate volumes of 25 and 40 mL. For extreme of volumes (both high and low), all drainage systems were inaccurate.

Conclusion

This study suggests that for intermediate volumes (25 and 40 mL), Jackson‐Pratt is the drainage system of choice. The accuracy of volume measurement is diminished at the extremes of drain volumes; emptying of drainage systems is recommended to avoid overfilling of drainage systems.
The force–velocity relationship at negative loads (assisted shortening) studied in isolated, intact muscle fibres of the frog
Authors: Edman K. A. P.
Published: May 2014

Aim

The study was undertaken to explore the force–velocity relationship under conditions where the myofilament system is subjected to an external force that serves as a negative load and assists the shortening movement.

Methods

The experiments were carried out on single muscle fibres isolated from the anterior tibialis muscle of Rana temporaria. The fibres, being operated under load‐clamp control, were released to shorten during tetanic stimulation at sarcomere lengths where the fibres carried different degrees of passive tension. The shortening thus occurred while the sarcomeres were subjected to a force that may be characterized as a ‘negative load’, that is, a force assisting the shortening movement.

Results

The force–velocity relationship below zero load was found to be a smooth continuation of the force–velocity curve recorded at positive loads with the shortening velocity increasing steeply at loads below zero. A negative load amounting to merely 10% of the isometric force, thus raised the shortening velocity to a level two to three times higher than V0, the velocity recorded at zero load.

Conclusions

The results provide evidence that, even in the presence of a longitudinal compressive force, the speed of shortening of the muscle fibre is determined by the cycling rate of the interacting cross‐bridges. The force–velocity relationship at negative loads may play a relevant part during fast movements of striated muscle as pointed out in the discussion.
Systematic review: interactions between aspirin, and other nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, and polymorphisms in relation to colorectal cancer
Authors: Andersen V. , Vogel U.
Published: May 2014

Background

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) include aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid, ASA). Long‐term use of NSAIDs has been associated with lowered risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), but the use is hampered by adverse effects. Also, the anti‐carcinogenic effects of NSAIDs are incompletely understood. Understanding biological effects of NSAIDs may help developing new preventive medical strategies.

Aim

To identify gene–environment interactions between genetic variation and NSAID use in relation to risk of CRC.

Methods

We performed a PubMed literature search and all studies reporting original data on interactions between NSAIDs and polymorphisms in relation to CRC were evaluated.

Results

We found indications that aspirin interacted with rs6983267 close to MYC (encoding a transcription factor involved in cell cycle progression, apoptosis and cellular transformation) and NSAIDs interacted with rs3024505 and rs1800872 in or close to IL10 (encoding IL‐10) in preventing CRC. Homozygous carriers of the variant allele of rs6983267 (ca. 25% of the population) halved their risk for CRC by aspirin use compared to homozygous wildtype carriers who did not benefit from aspirin intake. No interaction between use of NSAIDs and PTGS‐2 (encoding COX‐2) in relation to CRC risk was detected. Other findings of interactions between genes in inflammatory and oncogenic pathways and NSAIDs were considered suggestive.

Conclusions

Knowledge of underlying biological effects of NSAIDs in relation to CRC is scarce and the basis for stratifying the patients for preventive treatment is not yet available. Further studies assessing interactions between long‐term NSAID exposure and genetic variation in relation to CRC are warranted in large well‐characterised prospective cohorts.
Development of Clinical Pharmacology as a Medical Speciality in Europe – The Roles of WHO, IUPHAR and EACPT
Authors: Sjöqvist Folke
Published: May 2014

This MiniReview shows that both WHO and IUPHAR very early recognized that there is a gap between the availability of academic expert knowledge in pharmacology and its utilization in health care. Many initiatives have been taken to bridge this gap, but still 12 European countries do not recognize clinical pharmacology as a medical speciality because the profession has failed to develop defined functions in patient care. A first priority for EACPT therefore ought to be to promote clinical pharmacology as a medical speciality recognized by the European Union. The pharmacological services listed in Table 7 that focus on drug problems agree well with those that were recently prioritized in the IUPHAR/WHO/CIOMS manifesto to correct a major weakness in the health care of today in order to promote rational use of drugs.
Th17 cells and interleukin‐17 increase with poor prognosis in patients with acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Han Yixiang , Ye Aifang , Bi Laixi , Wu Jianbo , Yu Kang , Zhang Shenghui
Published: May 2014

Although Th17 cells play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of many autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, their roles in malignancies are currently under debate. The role and mechanism of Th17 cells in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remain poorly understood. Here we demonstrated that the frequency of Th17 cells was significantly increased in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and bone marrow mononuclear cells from AML patients compared with healthy donors. Plasma levels of interleukin (IL)‐17, IL‐22, IL‐23, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 were significantly increased in blood and bone marrow in AML patients compared with healthy donors. The in vitro experiments demonstrated that IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐23, but not TGF‐β1 promoted the generation and differentiation of Th17 cells from naive CD4+ T cells in humans. IL‐17A, a signature cytokine secreted by Th17 cells, induced the proliferation of IL‐17 receptor (IL‐17R)‐positive AML cells via IL‐17R, in which activation of PI3K/Akt and Jak/Stat3 signaling pathway may play important roles. In addition, combination of IL‐17A and IL‐22 significantly reduced the generation of Th1 cells and the production of interferon (IFN)‐γ from healthy donor or AML patient peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Patients with high Th17 cell frequency had poor prognosis, whereas patients with high Th1 cell frequency had prolonged survival. Combined analysis of Th1 and Th17 cell frequencies improved the ability to predict patient outcomes. In conclusion, Th17 cells play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of AML and may be an important therapeutic target and prognostic predictor.
Partially Biodegradable Distraction Implant to Replace Conventional Implants in Alveolar Bone of Insufficient Height: A Preliminary Study in Dogs
Authors: Li Tao , Zhang Yongqiang , Shao Bo , Gao Yuan , Zhang Chen , Cao Qiang , Kong Liang
Published: May 2014

Background

Dental implants have been widely used in the last few decades. However, patients with insufficient bone height need reconstructive surgeries before implant insertion. The distraction implant (DI) has been invented to simplify the treatment procedure, but the shortcomings of DIs have limited their clinical use. We incorporated biodegradable polyester into a novel DI called the partially biodegradable distraction implant (PBDI).

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the radiological, histological, and biomechanical properties of the PBDI in animal models.

Material and Methods

PBDIs were manufactured and inserted into the atrophied mandibles of nine dogs. Box‐shaped alveolar bones were segmented and distracted. The dogs were randomly divided into three groups that were sacrificed 1, 2, and 3 months after the implant insertion. Actual augmentation height (AAH) of the bone segments was measured to evaluate the effect of distraction. X‐ray examination and micro‐CT reconstruction and analysis were used to evaluate the regenerated bone in the distraction gap and bone around the functional element. Histological sections were used to evaluate the osseointegration and absorption of the PBDI. Fatigue tests were used to evaluate the biomechanical properties of the PBDI.

Results

Little change was found in AAH among the three groups. X‐ray examination and micro‐CT reconstruction showed good growth of regenerated bone in the distraction gap. Alveolar bone volume around the functional element increased steadily. No obvious bone absorption occurred in the alveolar crest around PBDI. Three months after distraction, the functional element achieved osseointegration, and the support element began to be absorbed. All PBDIs survived the fatigue test.

Conclusions

The PBDI is a novel and reliable dental implant. It becomes a conventional implant after the absorption of the support element and the removal of the distraction screw. It is a promising replacement for conventional implants in patients with insufficient alveolar bone height.
Effect of Platform Shift/Switch on Crestal Bone Levels and Mucosal Profile Following Flapless Surgery and Crestal/Subcrestal Implant Placement
Authors: Lee Jaebum , Fiorini Tiago , Gamborena Inãki , Wenzel Brent A. , Schüpbach Peter , Wikesjö Ulf M.E. , Susin Cristiano
Published: May 2014

Background

Crestal remodeling/bone loss appears a common sequel to dental implant placement. Several hypotheses and clinical strategies have been advanced to explain and avert crestal remodeling; however, causative mechanisms remain unclear and the efficacy of clinical protocol uncertain.

Objective

The objective of the present study was to provide a histologic record of crestal versus subcrestal implant placement on crestal remodeling and mucosal profile comparing platform shift/switch and standard abutments following flapless implant surgery using a dog model.

Methods

Four dental implants each were placed into the left and right edentulated posterior mandibles in five adult male hound‐Labrador mongrel dogs using a flapless approach including crestal versus subcrestal placement and using platform shift versus standard abutments. Block biopsies were collected for histological/histometric analysis following an 8‐week healing interval.

Results

Both crestal and subcrestal implant installation resulted in significant crestal remodeling and bone loss, in particular at buccal sites, without significant differences between platform shift/switch and standard abutments. Implants installed subcrestally exhibited a significantly taller mucosal profile over crestal‐level implants without significant differences between platform shift/switch and standard abutments; the epithelial attachment at all times arrested on the abutment surface.

Conclusions

Comparing platform shift/switch versus standard abutments using a minimally invasive flapless approach including crestal or subcrestal implant placement, the platform shift/switch abutments offer no selective advantage over standard abutments.
The influence of sinus membrane thickness upon membrane perforation during transcrestal sinus lift procedure
Authors: Wen Shih‐Cheng , Lin Yen‐Hua , Yang Yeuh‐Chao , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: May 2014

Objectives

Schneiderian membrane perforation is one of the main complications during sinus augmentation. The reasons may be associated with surgical technique, septum, inadequate ridge height, and membrane thickness. However, reports that used cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) to quantify the thickness of sinus membrane were limited. The aims of this retrospective study were: to study the correlation between membrane thickness and perforation rate during transcrestal sinus lift and to propose a classification system of sinus membrane thickness based upon CBCT data.

Material and methods

One hundred and twenty‐two subjects who received dental implant restorations over posterior maxilla with a total of 185 transcrestal sinus lift procedures between years 2010 to 2013 were selected consequently. Each patient selected had to have taken CBCT in the initial examination and immediately after surgery. The membrane thickness, perforation rate, residual bone height, and elevated bone height were recorded and processed for statistical analysis.

Results

The mean thickness of the Schneiderian membrane was 1.78 ± 1.99 mm. There was a significant correlation between membrane thickness and perforation rate (P < 0.05), and the perforation rate was higher in thicker (≥3 mm) and thinner membrane (≤0.5 mm). Among the thickness group, Class B (between ≥1 and <2 mm) had the lowest perforation rate. No significant difference was between the perforation and the membrane morphology. A negative relationship between residual bone height and membrane thickness was found. Trend showed that in the thicker and the thinner residual bone height, the higher the perforation rate would be.

Conclusions

There was a significant correlation between membrane thickness and perforation rate. The perforation rate was lowest when the thickness was 1.5–2 mm.
CYP2C9 Allelic Variants and Frequencies in a Pediatric Sickle Cell Disease Cohort: Implications for NSAIDs Pharmacotherapy
Authors: Jaja Cheedy , Patel Niren , Scott Stuart A. , Gibson Robert , Kutlar Abdullah
Published: May 2014

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat pain in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) are metabolized by the CYP2C9 enzyme. Racial differences in CYP2C9 allele frequencies impact NSAIDs efficacy and safety. We determined the frequencies of CYP2C9 alleles in an African American pediatric SCD cohort. Genomic DNA was isolated from blood samples of 30 patients aged between 7 and 17 years. Genotyping of nine CYP2C9 alleles (*1,*2, *3, *4, *5, *6, *8, *11, and *13) was performed using restriction fragment length polymorphism‐PCR assays and the Tag‐It™ Mutation Detection System. The wild type *1 allele frequency was 0.850. The most common variant allele detected was CYP2C9*8 (0.067). The combined frequency of the *2, *5, *6, *8, and *11 variants was 0.151. Seventy percent of the study cohort were predicted extensive metabolizers (*1/*1) and 30% were intermediate metabolizers due mainly to the *1/*8 genotype. Analysis of CYP2C9 using an expanded assay panel facilitated improved classification of predicted drug metabolic phenotypes in our cohort. However, the pharmacokinetic effects of the CYP2C9*5,*6,*8, and *11 alleles on NSAIDs metabolism has not been evaluated and underscores the need for studies on substrate‐specific effects of variant alleles common in populations with genetic susceptibility to SCD.
A Sustainable Course in Research Mentoring
Authors: Martina Camille Anne , Mutrie Andria , Ward Denham , Lewis Vivian
Published: May 2014

In this report, we describe a six‐year experience (2007‐2012) in a single CTSA awardee institution on the development, implementation and evaluation of a hybrid online mentoring curriculum that is applicable to CTSA trainees at various levels (graduate, medical students, and junior faculty) of career training. The curriculum offers convenience, engagement, and financial sustainability. Overall, we found high levels of satisfaction with the curriculum and mentoring experience among both protégés and mentors. Qualitative data showed remarkable consensus of 14 of the 15 domains of mentoring that form the framework of the mentoring curriculum: (1) accessibility, (2) selectivity, (3) engagement/support, (4) teaching/training, (5) clarity of performance/expectations, (6) sponsorship/sharing power judiciously, (7) demystifying the system (academia), (8) challenging/encouraging risk taking, (9) affirming, (10) providing exposure/visibility, (11) being an intentional role model, (12) protecting, (13) providing feedback, (14) self‐disclosure, and lastly (15) counseling, with the fifteenth domain “counseling” being the most controversial. Quantitative survey data of both mentors and protégés indicated a high degree of overall satisfaction in their mentor‐protégé dyad with 86% (59) of protégés and 86% (55) of mentors responding good or excellent to the “quality of time spent.” Mentors and protégés were most satisfied in the area of research, with 93% (62) of protégés and 96% (57) of mentors finding discussions in research very to somewhat useful for their own career advancement. Along with wide acceptability, this format is a useful option for institutions where face‐to‐face time is limited and education budgets are lean.
Sexually transmitted infections
Authors: Fuchs Wolfgang , Brockmeyer Norbert H.
Published: May 2014

In no other medical field former rare infections of the 1980th and 1990th occur again as this is seen in the field of venerology which is as well based on the mobility of the population. Increasing rates of infections in Europe, and increasing bacteriological resistances face health professionals with new challenges. The WHO estimates more than 340 million cases of illnesses worldwide every year. Diseases caused by sexually transmitted infections (STI) in a strict sense are syphilis, gonorrhea, lymphogranuloma venereum, granuloma inguinale, and chancroid. In a wider sense, all illnesses are included which can mainly be transmitted through sexual contact. The term “sexual contact” has to be seen widely, from close physical contact to all variants of sexual behavior. This CME article is an overview of the most common occurring sexually transmitted infections in clinical practice. Both, basic knowledge as well as recent developments are discussed below.
Legal Manoeuvres and Violence: Law Making, Protest and Semi‐Authoritarianism in Uganda
Authors: Goodfellow Tom
Published: May 2014

This article explores the interplay between violent protest and the making of laws in Uganda. It advances two main arguments. First, since multipartyism was restored in 2005, the Ugandan government has repeatedly drafted intentionally contentious new laws in part to provoke, divide and politically manipulate opposition. Implementing these laws has often not appeared to be a priority; rather, drafting, debating and (sometimes) passing them represent tactical ‘legal manoeuvres’ geared towards political gain. Second, I argue that these manoeuvres can be linked to another trend since 2005: the rise in urban‐based protests and riots, which have often become violent and resulted in aggressive crackdowns by the state. In bringing these trends together, this article argues that the use of legislative processes as part of a strategic repertoire to destabilize political opposition has exacerbated unrest, especially among urban dwellers. Moreover, in response to rising protest the government has engaged in further legal manoeuvring. The analysis suggests that the semi‐authoritarian nature of the regime in power, where the symbolic importance of the legislature and relatively free media contend with fundamentally authoritarian tendencies at the centre, is propagating this cycle of legal manoeuvres and violence.
Echocardiographic Evaluation of Univentricular Physiology and Cavopulmonary Shunts
Authors: Zaragoza‐Macias Elisa , Schwaegler Rebecca G. , Stout Karen K.
Published: May 2014

The term univentricular heart (UH) defines complex congenital heart disease that lacks a pulmonic ventricular chamber either in the original anatomy or the final palliation. The prevalence of patients with this type of physiology continues to increase due to improved surgical palliative procedures. This review will outline the physiology, complications, and echocardiographic approach to image patients with palliated UH.
Echocardiographic Evaluation of Congenital Left Ventricular Outflow Obstruction
Authors: Aboulhosn Jamil , Child John S.
Published: May 2014

Left ventricular outflow obstructions (LVOTO) encompass a series of stenotic lesions beginning within the anatomic left ventricular outflow tract and ending in the descending thoracic aorta, occurring alone or in series. The degree of stenosis and hemodynamic consequences may vary from mild and well tolerated to severe and functionally limiting. The majority of LVOTO (with the exception of calcific and rheumatic aortic stenosis) are congenital in etiology. Echocardiography has become an integral tool in the assessment of patients with congenital heart disease. This article is a contemporary review of the clinical features of LVOTO and the role of echocardiography in this patient population.
Echocardiographic Evaluation of Patent Foramen Ovale and Atrial Septal Defect
Authors: Hari Pawan , Pai Ramdas G. , Varadarajan Padmini
Published: May 2014

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common variant present in up to 25% of the population. Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a direct communication between the 2 atrial chambers, of which the ostium secundum variety is the most common. This manuscript is an in depth review of the complex atrial septation, the diagnosis of PFO and ASD and its clinical and therapeutic implications.
COMPETITIVE BALANCE MEASURES IN SPORTS LEAGUES: THE EFFECTS OF VARIATION IN SEASON LENGTH
Authors: Owen P. Dorian , King Nicholas
Published: May 2014

Appropriate measurement of competitive balance is central to the economic analysis of professional sports leagues. We examine the distributional properties of the ratio of standard deviations (RSD) of points percentages, the most widely used measure of competitive balance in the sports economics literature, in comparison with other standard‐deviation‐based measures. Simulation methods are used to evaluate the effects of changes in season length on the distributions of competitive balance measures for different distributions of the strengths of teams in a league. The popular RSD measure performs as expected only in cases of perfect balance; if there is imbalance in team strengths, its distribution is sensitive to changes in season length. It is therefore not recommended for comparisons of competitive balance for different sports leagues with different numbers of teams and/or games played. (JEL L83, D63, C63)
High densities of leaf‐tiers in open habitats are explained by host plant architecture
Authors: ZVEREVA ELENA L. , ZVEREV VITALI , KOZLOV MIKHAIL V.
Published: May 2014

1. Crown architecture remains one of the least studied plant traits that influence plant–herbivore interactions. The hypotheses that dense crown architecture of mountain birches from open habitats favours leaf‐tying caterpillars through bottom‐up and/or top‐down effects associated with high leaf connectivity were tested.

2. Population densities of leaf‐tying herbivores in open (industrial barren and seashore) habitats were three times as high as in the shaded (forest) habitats. An experimental increase in leaf density by branch binding did not affect foliar consumption by free‐living herbivores but increased consumption by leaf‐tiers.

3. The specific leaf weight was lower in shaded habitats and in bound branches, but branch binding did not influence either the foliar concentrations of carbon and nitrogen or the pupal weight of the most abundant leaf‐tier, Carpatolechia proximella Hbn. (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae).

4. Caterpillars of C. proximella build several shelters during their lifetime and spend a considerable amount of time outside the shelter, where they excrete most of their faeces. In bound branches, caterpillars built new shelters more frequently than in control branches, and consumed less foliar biomass per shelter.

5. Mortality from parasitoids in bound branches was half that in the control, presumably because the complex environment disrupted parasitoid searching behaviour and/or because of lower damage to leaves from which the shelters were built.

6. It is concluded that the crown architecture associated with high leaf connectivity decreases mortality risks from natural enemies both outside and inside the shelter. Compact and dense crowns of host plants may at least partly explain high population densities of leaf‐tiers in open habitats.
Pure Self‐Assessment of Size During Male–Male Contests in the Parasitoid WaspNasonia vitripennis
Authors: Tsai Yi‐Jiun J. , Barrows Edward M. , Weiss Martha R.
Published: May 2014

During contest competition, a competitor may persist in a given contest based on information regarding its own fighting ability (resource‐holding potential,RHP), or that of its opponent. Although a number of models formalize the ways in which competitors are hypothesized to useRHP‐related information to determine their persistence in contests, we focused on pure self‐assessment and mutual assessment models in this study. According to pure self‐assessment models, a competitor uses only information regarding its ownRHPto determine its persistence in a contest. In contrast, according to mutual assessment models, persistence is based on information regarding a competitor'sRHPrelative to that of its opponent and therefore requires assessment between competitors. In this study, using size as a proxy forRHP, we tested whether the parasitoid waspNasonia vitripennisutilizes pure self‐assessment or mutual assessment during pairwise, male–male contests. When we examined competitors of varied sizes, we found that the losing male's size was positively related to contest duration, but the winning male's size was uncorrelated with contest duration. When we examined contests in which competitors were size‐matched, we found that the mean size of paired competitors was positively related to contest duration. These results suggest that maleN. vitripennisengage in pure self‐assessment during contests.
Cutaneous glucocorticosteroidogenesis: securing local homeostasis and the skin integrity
Authors: Slominski Andrzej T. , Manna Pulak R. , Tuckey Robert C.
Published: May 2014

Human skin has the ability to synthesize glucocorticoids de novo from cholesterol or from steroid intermediates of systemic origin. By interacting with glucocorticoid receptors, they regulate skin immune functions as well as functions and phenotype of the epidermal, dermal and adnexal compartments. Most of the biochemical (enzyme and transporter activities) and regulatory (neuropeptides mediated activation of cAMP and protein kinase A dependent pathways) principles of steroidogenesis in the skin are similar to those operating in classical steroidogenic organs. However, there are also significant differences determined by the close proximity of synthesis and action (even within the same cells) allowing para‐, auto‐ or intracrine modes of regulation. We also propose that ultraviolet light B (UVB) can regulate the availability of 7‐dehydrocholesterol for transformation to cholesterol with its further metabolism to steroids, oxysterols or ∆7 steroids, because of its transformation to vitamin D3. In addition, UVB can rearrange locally produced ∆7 steroids to the corresponding secosteroids with a short‐ or no‐side chain. Thus, different mechanisms of regulation occur in the skin that can be either stochastic or structuralized. We propose that local glucocorticosteroidogenic systems and their regulators, in concert with cognate receptors operate to stabilize skin homeostasis and prevent or attenuate skin pathology.
Service Learning, Phonemic Perception, and Learner Motivation: A Quantitative Study
Authors: Medina Almitra , Gordon Leslie
Published: May 2014

A nine‐week empirical study of 25 adults in a second language (L2) Spanish phonetics course explored whether students' participation in service‐learning language exchange sessions with native Spanish speakers outside of class influenced learners' (1) motivation for foreign language learning and (2) phonemic perception in Spanish. Divided into service‐learning and non‐service‐learning groups, participants overall showed a significant pre‐ to post‐study improvement in phonemic perception as well as a substantial decrease or increase on four L2 motivational factors. However, no significant differences surfaced between the experimental and the control groups.
Using frozen section to identify histological patterns in stage I lung adenocarcinoma of ≤3 cm: accuracy and interobserver agreement
Authors: Yeh Yi‐Chen , Nitadori Jun‐ichi , Kadota Kyuichi , Yoshizawa Akihiko , Rekhtman Natasha , Moreira Andre L , Sima Camelia S , Rusch Valerie W , Adusumilli Prasad S , Travis William D
Published: May 2014

Aims

The IASLC/ATS/ERS classification of lung adenocarcinoma provides a prognostically significant histological subclassification. The aim of this study was to investigate the accuracy, limitations and interobserver agreement of frozen sections for predicting histological subtype.

Methods and results

Frozen section and permanent section slides from 361 resected stage I lung adenocarcinomas ≤3 cm in size were reviewed for predominant histological subtype and the presence or absence of lepidic, acinar, papillary, micropapillary and solid patterns. Fifty cases were additionally reviewed by three pathologists to determine interobserver agreement. To test the accuracy of frozen section in judging degree of invasion, five pathologists reviewed frozen section slides from 35 cases with a predominantly lepidic pattern. There was moderate agreement on predominant histological subtype between frozen sections and final diagnosis (κ = 0.565). Frozen sections had high specificity for micropapillary and solid patterns (94% and 96%, respectively), but sensitivity was low (37% and 69%, respectively). The interobserver agreement was satisfactory (κ > 0.6, except for the acinar pattern).

Conclusions

Frozen section can provide information on the presence of aggressive histological patterns—micropapillary and solid—with high specificity but low sensitivity. It was difficult to predict the predominant pattern on the basis of frozen sections, mostly because of sampling issues.
Transungual delivery: deliberations and creeds
Authors: Thatai P. , Sapra B.
Published: May 2014

Synopsis

Although considered as trifling illness, nail diseases have a reasonably high occurrence and a noteworthy impact on the patients' quality of life. Furthermore, there is a need to improve the topical treatment for nail diseases to avoid drug interactions and to reduce side effects associated with oral therapy. Topical drug delivery to the nails has established amplified consideration lately. Strategies (such as chemical enhancers, formulation strategies, physical and mechanical methods) are being investigated in order to improve drug permeability across the nail plate. The rationale of this review is to present contemporary information on the structure of human nail along with its comparison with animal hooves. Precincts of nail permeability have been briefly discussed with respect to factors like permeant's molecular size, hydrophilicity, charge and the nature of the vehicle. These factors affect drug uptake and permeation through the nail. Formulations like nail lacquers which mimic cosmetic varnish and colloidal carriers along with nail substitutes that can be utilized for transungual delivery have also been discussed.
Regulation of immune responses by proton channels
Authors: Capasso Melania
Published: May 2014

The identification of the HVCN1 gene, encoding the only mammalian voltage‐gated proton channel, prompted a number of studies on how proton channels affect cellular functions. As their expression is mainly restricted to immune cells, it is not surprising that proton channels regulate different aspects of immune responses. In this review, I will examine the current knowledge of voltage‐gated proton channels in both innate and adaptive responses and assess the remaining outstanding questions.
Job satisfaction and turnover intention among Jordanian nurses in psychiatric units
Authors: Alsaraireh Faris , Quinn Griffin Mary T. , Ziehm Scott R. , Fitzpatrick Joyce J.
Published: May 2014

Psychiatric nursing has been identified as a stressful occupation, and this stress could affect individuals' health, well‐being, and job satisfaction. The stress of nurses might also affect the organization in terms of absenteeism and quality of care. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between job satisfaction and turnover intention among Jordanian nurses in the psychiatric units of the Jordanian National Mental Health Center. A descriptive, correlational, cross‐sectional design was used. Nurses were asked to complete a demographic data sheet and questionnaires regarding job satisfaction and turnover intention. Of the 179 questionnaires distributed, 154 were completed, with an 86% response rate. The results revealed a statistically‐significant negative relationship between job satisfaction and turnover intention. The findings of the study are consistent with previous research regarding the negative relationship between job satisfaction and turnover intention. The findings provide new information about Jordanian nurses who work in government hospital psychiatric services.
Local Powers of Optimal One‐sample and Multi‐sample Tests for the Concentration of Fisher‐von Mises‐Langevin Distributions
Authors: Ley Christophe , Verdebout Thomas
Published: May 2014

One‐sample and multi‐sample tests on the concentration parameter of Fisher‐von Mises‐Langevin distributions on (hyper‐)spheres have been well studied in the literature. However, only little is known about their behaviour under local alternatives, which is due to complications inherent to the curved nature of the parameter space. The aim of the present paper therefore consists in filling that gap by having recourse to the Le Cam methodology, which has recently been adapted from the linear to the spherical setup. We obtain explicit expressions of the powers for the most efficient one‐ and multi‐sample tests. As a nice by‐product, we are also able to write down the powers (against local Fisher‐von Mises‐Langevin alternatives) of the celebrated Rayleigh test of uniformity. A Monte Carlo simulation study confirms our theoretical findings and shows the empirical powers of the above‐mentioned procedures.
Late Miocene origin of an Ibero‐Maghrebian clade of ground beetles with multiple colonizations of the subterranean environment
Authors: Faille Arnaud , Andújar Carmelo , Fadrique Floren , Ribera Ignacio
Published: May 2014

Aim

To test different biogeographical scenarios for the evolution of the ground beetles of the Trechus fulvus group, a lineage with many narrowly distributed flightless subterranean species, highly suitable for tracing their biogeographical history.

Location

The Western Palaearctic, focusing on the Betic–Rifean area between south‐east Iberia and north Morocco.

Methods

We sequenced 3.3 kb of four mitochondrial and two nuclear genes of 30 individuals of 15 species of the T. fulvus group, plus 29 outgroups. We reconstructed their phylogeny and estimated divergence times using Bayesian probabilities and a priori evolutionary rates, and their ancestral distribution using maximum likelihood.

Results

The phylogenetic reconstruction uncovered multiple independent colonizations of the subterranean environment within the T. fulvus group, a scenario also supported by variation in troglomorphic characters. Most of the Moroccan and south‐east Iberian species form a clade with strong geographical structure, including the former genus Antoinella. The biogeographical model best fitting the current distribution and phylogeny of the group was a late Miocene palaeogeographical scenario with isolated populations on the Betic and Rifean areas and a south‐eastern Iberian origin of the north Moroccan species. The widespread T. fulvus was sister to a central Moroccan species, suggesting a second Iberian–North African vicariance event within the group. One of the species, T. lallemantii, expanded its range to the east (Algeria and Tunisia) and the north (extreme south of the Iberian Peninsula) during the Pleistocene.

Main conclusions

The T. fulvus group originated in the early Miocene, and the south‐eastern Iberian lineage in the Tortonian. The lineage dispersed to Morocco during the Messinian, diversifying in rapid succession in the Atlas and the Rif and colonizing the subterranean environment multiple times. The geography of the Betic–Rifean region at the end of the Miocene can still be traced from the distribution of the extant species of the group.
Epichloë fungal endophytes and the formation of synthetic symbioses in Hordeeae (=Triticeae) grasses
Authors: SIMPSON Wayne R. , FAVILLE Marty J. , MORAGA Roger A. , WILLIAMS Warren M. , MCMANUS Michael T. , JOHNSON Richard D.
Published: May 2014

This review examines two classes of organism that live in symbiosis; grasses, and fungi. Specifically it deals with grasses of the tribe Hordeeae (formerly Triticeae) of the subfamily Poöideae and the Epichloë fungi of family Clavicipitaceae. Epichloë endophytes, particularly asexual forms, have important roles in pastoral agricultural systems in the Americas, Australia, and New Zealand. Selected strains add value to some grass‐based forage systems by providing both biotic and abiotic stress resistance. The importance of cereal grasses such as wheat, barley, rye, and oats to human and animal nutrition and indeed to the foundation and maintenance of human civilization is well documented. Both organism classes, Epichloë endophytes and cereal grasses, are of great importance in their own contexts. Here, we seek to review these two classes of organism and examine the possibility of bringing them together in symbiosis with the ultimate goal of improving cereal production systems.
Sexual Function in the Late Postmenopause: A Decade of Follow-Up in a Population-Based Cohort of Australian Women
Authors: Lonnèe-Hoffmann Risa A.M. , Dennerstein Lorraine , Lehert Philippe , Szoeke Cassandra
Published: May 2014

Introduction

There is a paucity of longitudinal studies assessing sexual function of women in the late postmenopause.

Aim

This study aims to describe sexual function of women in the late postmenopause and to investigate change from early postmenopause.

Methods

Cross-sectional analysis of 2012/13 and longitudinal analysis from 2002/04 of the population based, Australian cohort of the Women's Healthy Ageing Project, applying validated instruments: Short Personal Experience Questionnaire (SPEQ), Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Geriatric Depression Scale, and California Verbal Learning Test.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual activity, SPEQ, and FSDS.

Results

Two hundred thirty women responded (follow-up rate 53%), mean age was 70 years (range 64–77), 49.8% were sexually active. FSDS scores showed more distress for sexually active women (8.3 vs. 3.2, P < 0.001). For 23 (23%) sexually active and for five (7%) inactive women, the diagnosis of female sexual dysfunction could be made. After adjustment, available partner (odds ratio [OR] 4.31, P < 0.001), no history of depression (OR 0.49, P = 0.036), moderate compared with no alcohol consumption (OR 2.43, P = 0.019), and better cognitive function score (OR1.09, P = 0.050) were significantly predictive for sexual activity. Compared with early postmenopause, 18% more women had ceased sexual activity. For women maintaining their sexual activity through to late postmenopause (n = 82), SPEQ and FSDS scores had not changed significantly, but frequency of sexual activity had decreased (P = 0.003) and partner difficulties had increased (P = 0.043). [Correction added on 10 July 2014, after first online publication: Mean age of respondents was added.]

Conclusions

In late postmenopause, half of the women were sexually active. Most important predictors were partner availability and no history of depression. However, being sexually active or having a partner were associated with higher levels of sexual distress. Compared with early postmenopause, sexual function scores had declined overall but were stable for women maintaining sexual activity. Further research into causes of sexual distress and reasons for sexual inactivity at this reproductive stage is warranted.
40Ar‐39Ar step‐heating of impact glasses from the Nördlinger Ries impact crater—Implications on excess argon in impact melts and tektites
Authors: Schwarz Winfried H. , Lippolt Hans J.
Published: May 2014

Seven impact melts from various places in the Nördlinger Ries were dated by40Ar‐39Ar step‐heating. The aim of these measurements was to increase the age data base for Ries impact glasses directly from the Ries crater, because there is only one Ar‐Ar step‐heating spectrum available in the literature. Almost all samples display saddle‐shaped age spectra, indicating the presence of excess argon in most Ries glass samples, most probably inherited argon from incompletely degassed melt and possibly also excess argon incorporated during cooling from adjacent phases. In contrast, moldavites usually contain no inherited argon, probably due to their different formation process implying solidification during ballistic transport. The plateau age of the only flat spectrum is 14.60 ± 0.16 (0.20) Ma (2σ), while the total age of this sample is 14.86 ± 0.20 (0.22) Ma (isochron age: 14.72 ± 0.18 [0.22] Ma [2σ]), proofing the chronological relationship of the Ries impact and moldavites. The total ages of the other samples range between 15.77 ± 0.52 and 20.4 ± 1.0 Ma (2σ), implying approximately 2–40% excess40Ar (compared to the nominal age of the Ries crater) in respective samples. Thus, the age of 14.60 ± 0.16 (0.20) (2σ) (14.75 ± 0.16 [0.20 Ma] [2σ], calculated using the most recent suggestions for the K decay constants) can be considered as reliable and is within uncertainties indistinguishable from the most recent compilation for the age of the moldavite tektites.
A retrospective and geographical epidemiological survey of traumatic myiasis in southern Italy
Authors: GIANGASPERO A. , BRIANTI E. , TRAVERSA D. , HALL M. J. R.
Published: May 2014

A survey on the prevalence and geographical distribution of traumatic myiasis in sheep, and the risk factors for the disease, was carried out in a region of southern Italy. A total of 138 sheep flocks were selected and visited to acquire data on the presence or absence of traumatic myiasis using both a questionnaire for retrospective analysis and animal inspection. Prevalences registered at the farm and animal levels, respectively, were 8.7% and 6.3% in 2010, and 5.8% and 5.0% in 2011. Records of the occurrence of the parasitic disease in this region are recent: a statistically significant (P < 0.01) progressive increase in the number of farms affected (from 0.7% to 8.7%) has been registered since 2007. Wohlfahrtiosis was found in 11 of 95 (11.6%) geographical units sampled and three significant (P < 0.05) clusters of spatial farm aggregation were identified in the southern part of the study area. A total of 158 presently uninfested farms were considered to be at high risk for transmission as a result of their proximity to infested farms. The spreading of Wohlfahrtia magnifica (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) in southern regions of Italy represents a warning that the risk for infestation may become more significant in other Italian regions, as well as other European countries.
Diabetic kidney disease in Australia: Current burden and future projections
Authors: White Sarah , Chadban Steve
Published: May 2014

Diabetes mellitus is now the most common cause of new cases of end‐stage kidney disease treated with kidney replacement therapy in Australia. In addition to the approximately 5000 Australians receiving maintenance dialysis or living with a kidney transplant as a consequence of diabetes, many die from untreated end‐stage kidney disease due to diabetes (DM‐ESKD) each year. For every Australian receiving renal replacement therapy due to diabetes, at least 50 others have earlier stages of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Based on projected increases in type 2 diabetes prevalence, the size of this underlying population with DKD will potentially exceed half a million by 2025. In addition to the risk of developing DM‐ESKD, this population is at increased risk of premature cardiovascular morbidity and all‐cause mortality. Higher rates of hospitalization, use of specialist services and prescription drugs mean that those with DKD also incur significantly greater health care costs compared with those with diabetes or chronic kidney disease alone. However, in contrast to the increasing prevalence of diabetes and early stages of DKD, recent trends in the incidence of DM‐ESKD suggest that better management in the earlier stages of DKD has been successful in slowing rates of disease progression. Simultaneous improvements in use of renin–angiotensin inhibitors and improved glycaemic and blood pressure control are likely to be largely responsible for this trend. Primary prevention, maximizing early detection of DKD and optimal management of diabetes and kidney disease hold great potential to attenuate the future health burden attributable to DKD in Australia.
Cone size is related to branching architecture in conifers
Authors: Leslie Andrew B. , Beaulieu Jeremy M. , Crane Peter R. , Donoghue Michael J.
Published: May 2014

The relationship between branch diameter and leaf size has been widely used to understand how vegetative resources are allocated in plants. Branching architecture influences reproductive allocation as well, but fewer studies have explored this relationship at broad phylogenetic or ecological scales. In this study, we tested whether pollen‐producing and seed‐producing cone size scales with branch diameter in conifers, a diverse and globally distributed lineage of nonflowering seed plants.

Branch diameter and cone size were analyzed using multiple regression models and evolutionary models of trait evolution for a data set of 293 extant conifer species within an explicit phylogenetic framework.

Branch diameter is a strong predictor of cone size across conifer species, particularly for pollen cones and dry seed cones. However, these relationships are complex in detail because leaf morphology and seed dispersal biology influence the specific ways in which they are expressed.

The ubiquity and strength of these scaling relationships across conifers suggest that reproductive and vegetative morphologies are coupled in the group, and it is therefore difficult to disentangle the evolution of cone size from the evolution of branching architecture.