bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in the Presentation and Treatment of Basal Cell Carcinomas
Authors: ROENIGK RANDALL K. , LOUIS RATZ JOHN , BAILIN PHILIP L. , WHEELAND RONALD G.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Analysis of 1,620 basal cell carcinomas treated at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation from 1981 to 1983 confirms that the majority of basal cell carcinomas occur on the face and that the relative risk for recurrent tumor is high in certain locations, especially the nose. Alternately, tumors found on the neck/scalp, trunk, and arms have a low relative risk of recurrence when compared to all other anatomic locations. More primary and fewer recurrent tumors now presenting to our unit have been referred for Mohs surgery as primary therapy. This results in higher cure rates for treatment of all basal cell carcinoma.
Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome: Combined Etretinate and Surgical Treatment
Authors: SANCHEZ‐CONEJO‐MIR J. , CAMACHO FRANCISCO
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Aromatic retinoids have been shown to be useful in the management of various genodermatoses, including nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS). A patient with this condition was treated by combined etretinate and surgical therapy. Over the course of 12 months, the patient was placed on oral etretinate therapy, with a dosage of 1 mg/kg/day for 3 months, and 0.5 mg/kg/day for 9 months. In the first period, notable tumor reduction was observed in the larger tumors. Complete clinical regression was seen in only 26% of BCCs with an overall tumor size of less than 1 cm in diameter. In the second period, no tumor changes were observed, but no new tumors appeared. Surgical excisions of the remaining tumors were carried out 3 months after the end of the etretinate treatment, with excellent results and no recurrences after 6 months of follow‐up. Treatment with etretinate permits a less aggressive surgical excision and recurrence rate than surgical excision alone.
Punch Technique—An Alternative Approach to the Repair of Pierced Earlobe Deformities
Authors: TAN EDGAR C.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. The punch technique of repairing pierced earlobe deformities is a practical and simplified alternative to the usual method of repair. The procedure can easily be performed in any dermatology office since the instruments required are very basic. The technique is presented in a series of illustrations, and the results are cosmetically acceptable.
Cartilage Removal Prior to Skin Grafting in the Triangular Fossa, Antihelix, and Concha of the Ear
Authors: MELLETTE J. RAMSEY , SWINEHART JAMES M.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Skin grafting onto a large area of exposed ear cartilage with irregular contours poses an increased risk of inadequate re‐establishment of circulation. Removal of cartilage not needed for structural support before grafting following Mohs surgery on the triangular fossa, antihelix, and concha of the ear decreases the risk of recurrence of the carcinoma, and increases the chances for survival of the graft.
Current Surgical Management of Skin Cancer in Dermatology
Authors: ROENIGK RANDALL K. , ROENIGK HENRY H.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Skin cancer has become a major public health problem in the United States and worldwide. Epidemiologic studies confirm a continued increase in the number of basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, and malignant melanomas. Dermatologists, the primary caretakers of the skin, manage skin cancer with various modalities that have been time tested and found reliable, including excision, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, and Mohs micrographic surgery. Extirpative procedures for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are considered with attention to cure, restoration of function, and cosmesis—in that order. The dermatologic management of melanoma is critical because early diagnosis and treatment of thin lesions has been the only effective improvement in melanoma management in the last several decades. Wide excision, with a 1–3‐cm margin, of thin stage I melanoma has moved surgical management from the operating room to the outpatient surgical setting. Management of these increasingly common problems, as reviewed here, is principally responsible for the growth of surgical practice as a subspecialty of dermatology.
Mycosis Fungoides with CNS Involvement: Neuropsychiatry Manifestations and Complications of Treatment with Intrathecal Methotrexate and Whole‐Brain Irradiation
Authors: LINDAE MARY L. , LUY JUDITH , ABEL ELIZABETH A. , KAPLAN REED
Published: June 2013

Abstract. The case of a 42‐year‐old Caucasian male with CNS dissemination of mycosis fungoides is described. This patient developed prominent mental status changes and subtle neurologic signs, and was treated with intrathecal methotrexate and whole‐brain irradiation.
Two Different Techniques for Sclerosing the Incompetent Saphenofemoral Junction: A Comparative Study
Authors: RAYMOND‐MARTIMBEAU PAULINE
Published: June 2013

Abstract. A study comparing two methods of sclerosing the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) that included 2186 patients was conducted. In the first method, injections were made below the junction with digital pressure applied at the SFJ, with the patient in a sitting position. In the second, injections were made below the junction with digital pressure at the SFJ and below the injection site, with the patient in a standing position. The results indicated that higher saphenous sequestration with the patient in a standing position is a valuable sclerotherapy technique.
Stasis Papillomatosis Clinical Features, Etiopathogenesis and Radiological Findings
Authors: SCHULTZ‐EHRENBURG ULRICH , NIEDERAUER HARALD HEINZ , TIEDJEN KURT‐UDO
Published: June 2013

Stasis papillomatosis can be divided into localized and widespread forms. Ten patients with this disease are discussed with emphasis on their clinical and lymphoradiological findings. Using isotope lymphography we were able to find an overall lymphostasis in only four patients. In all patients, local lymphatic disturbances were detected by means of indirect lymphography with intradermal lymph cysts as the most specific sign. Local dermal lymphostasis seems to be the common final pathogenesis in spite of different etiologies (ie, primary lymphedema, chronic venous insufficiency, trauma recurrent erysipelas, and local lymphangiodysplasia of unknown origin). A maximum variant was seen, following en‐bloc resection of subcutaneous tissue in a patient suffering from congenital lymphedema.
Aqueous Gelcasting of Fused Silica Using Colloidal Silica Binder
Authors: Manivannan R. , Kumar Anil , Subrahmanyam Ch.
Published: June 2013

An aqueous‐based gelcasting of fused silica ceramics by using colloidal silica binder was developed. Fused silica slurries having different volume percentage of solid loading from 63 to 74 vol% in colloidal silica were made and the rheological properties were evaluated. It was found that the slurry with 73 vol% of solid loading with viscosity 0.70 Pa.s is suitable for this gelcasting system. The influence of solid loading on physical and mechanical properties of gelcast green and sintered bodies has been studied. The fabricated green body by using colloidal silica binder exhibited a flexural strength of 9 MPa and 88% of theoretical density with 2.2% of drying shrinkage while the sintered sample exhibited flexural strength of 60 MPa and 95% of theoretical density with 4.3% of sintering shrinkage. It was observed that, the nano silica particles from the colloidal silica binder is filling the interstitial positions in the consolidated fused silica green body and enhancing physical and mechanical properties.
A systematic review of physical impairments following radical prostatectomy: effect of psychoeducational interventions
Authors: Lassen Britta , Gattinger Heidrun , Saxer Susi
Published: June 2013

Aims

To determine the effect of psychoeducational interventions on urinary and faecal incontinence and erectile dysfunction in men 50 years and older after prostatectomy for prostate cancer in comparison to usual care.

Background

Prostate cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer in men worldwide. The major complications of radical prostatectomy are urinary and faecal incontinence as well as sexual dysfunction, associated with significantly reduced quality of life.

Design

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials was undertaken to provide a narrative synthesis and critical appraisal of included studies.

Data Sources

The electronic databases MEDLINE and CINAHL were searched using a systematic search strategy for studies published between January 2001–December 2012. In addition, reference lists of included papers were checked. The Cochrane Database was screened for whether a review on this topic already exists.

Review Methods

The systematic review included randomized controlled trials in men after prostate cancer treatment and psychoeducational interventions to influence urinary or faecal incontinence and erectile dysfunction. The quality of studies was assessed by the reviewers using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) method.

Results

Eight trials met the inclusion criteria. Although these studies are heterogeneous and of varied quality, a descriptive synthesis of results suggests that psychoeducational interventions may improve urinary incontinence, bowel bother, sexual function and sexual bother to some extent.

Conclusion

The results of this systematic review indicate that it would be worthwhile to implement postprostatectomy psychoeducational interventions into nursing discharge planning. Future research is necessary to corroborate these results and define the most favourable time to implement psychoeducational interventions.
Noncoronary ST Elevation and Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia During Left‐Sided Accessory Pathway Ablation
Authors: HWANG GYO‐SEUNG , PARK JIN‐SUN , YANG HYOUNG‐MO , LIM HONG‐SEOK , CHOI BYOUNG‐JOO , CHOI SO‐YEON , YOON MYEONG‐HO , SHIN JOON‐HAN , TAHK SEUNG‐JEA
Published: June 2013

Noncoronary ST Elevation During Ablation Therapy

Introduction

An early repolarization (ER) pattern on electrocardiogram (ECG) sometimes has the risk of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (PVT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF). An abnormal ER pattern can develop in various experimental or clinical situations. We experienced 4 cases of abnormal ER pattern with or without PVT during the radiofrequency (RF) ablation of the left accessory pathway.

Methods and Results

An electrophysiologic study and RF ablation were performed in 4 patients. Four patients had atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia. During RF ablation of the left accessory pathway, severe chest pain developed and was followed by abnormal J‐point elevation. During the ongoing chest pain and J‐point elevation, coronary angiograms showed normal findings. The chest pain and J‐point elevation were followed by PVT or VF that was unresponsive to defibrillation. The PVT was spontaneously terminated and repeated. After 0.5 mg atropin was given, chest pain and ECG change disappeared.

Conclusion

The mechanisms of ER syndrome during RF ablation might be increased vagal tone due to chest pain or direct vagal stimulation.
Clinical Impact, Safety, and Efficacy of Single‐ versus Dual‐Coil ICD Leads in MADIT‐CRT
Authors: KUTYIFA VALENTINA , HUTH RUWALD ANNE‐CHRISTINE , AKTAS MEHMET K. , JONS CHRISTIAN , McNITT SCOTT , POLONSKY BRONISLAVA , GELLER LASZLO , MERKELY BELA , MOSS ARTHUR J. , ZAREBA WOJCIECH , BLOCH THOMSEN POUL ERIK
Published: June 2013

Single‐ versus Dual‐Coil ICD Leads

Background

Current data on efficacy, safety and impact on clinical outcome of single‐ versus dual‐coil implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) leads are limited and contradictory.

Methods

Defibrillation threshold (DFT) at implantation and first shock efficacy were compared in patients implanted with single‐ versus dual‐coil ICD leads in MADIT‐CRT. The risk for atrial tachyarrhythmias and all‐cause mortality were evaluated. Short‐ (< 30 days after the implantation) and long‐term (throughout the entire study duration) complications were assessed.

Results

Patients with dual‐coil ICD leads had significantly lower DFTs compared to patients with single‐coil ICD leads (17.6 ± 5.8 J vs 19.4 ± 6.1 J, P < 0.001). First shock efficacy was similar among patients with dual and single‐coil ICD leads (89.6% vs 92.3%, P = 1.00). When comparing patients with dual versus single‐coil ICD leads, there was no difference in the risk of atrial tachyarrhythmias (HR = 1.57, 95% CI: 0.81–3.02, P = 0.18), or in the risk of all‐cause mortality (HR = 1.10, 95% CI: 0.58–2.07, P = 0.77). Patients implanted with single‐ or dual‐coil ICD lead had similar short and long‐term complication rates (short‐term HR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.56–1.65, P = 0.88, long‐term procedure‐related HR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.62–1.59, P = 1.00, long‐term ICD lead related: HR = 1.2, 95% CI: 0.5–2.9, P = 0.68) during the mean follow‐up of 3.3 years.

Conclusions

Patients with single‐coil ICD leads have slightly higher DFTs compared to those with dual‐coil leads, but the efficacy, safety, and clinical impact on atrial tachyarrhythmias, and mortality is similar. Implantation of single‐coil ICD leads may be favorable in most patients.
The ‘unskilled and unaware’ effect is linear in a real‐world setting
Authors: Sawdon Marina , Finn Gabrielle
Published: June 2013

Self‐assessment ability in medical students and practising physicians is generally poor, yet essential for academic progress and professional development. The aim of this study was to determine undergraduate medical students' ability to self‐assess their exam performance accurately in a real‐world, high‐stakes exam setting, something not previously investigated. Year 1 and Year 2 medical students (n = 74) participated in a self‐assessment exercise. Students predicted their exam grade (%) on the anatomy practical exam. This exercise was completed online immediately after the exam. Students' predicted exam grades were correlated with their actual attained exam grades using a Pearson's correlation. Demographic data were analysed using an independent t‐test. A negative correlation was found between students' overall predicted and attained exam grades (P < 0.0001). There was a significant difference between the students' predicted grades and actual grades in the bottom, 3rd and top (P < 0.0001), but not 2nd quartiles of participants. There was no relationship between the students' entry status into medical school and self‐assessment ability (Year 1: P = 0.112; Year 2: P = 0.236) or between males and females (Year 1: P = 0.174). However, a relationship was determined for these variables in Year 2 (P = 0.022). The number of hours of additional self‐directed learning undertaken did not influence students' self‐assessment in both years. Our results demonstrate the ‘unskilled and unaware’ phenomenon in a real‐world, high‐stakes and practice‐related setting. Students in all quartiles were unable to self‐assess their exam performance, except for a group of mid‐range students in the 2nd quartile. Poor performers were shown to overestimate their ability and, conversely, high achievers to underestimate their performance. We present evidence of a strong, significant linear relationship between medical students' ability to self‐assess their performance in an anatomy practical exam, and their actual performance; in a real world setting. Despite the limited ability to self‐assess reported in the literature, our results may inform approaches to revalidation, which currently frequently rely on an ability to self‐assess.
Boiling Down to the M‐Word at the California Supreme Court
Authors: Deeb Hadi Nicholas
Published: June 2013

This article examines oral arguments in a seminal case before the California Supreme Court about same‐sex couples' right to marry. Working with video of the proceeding, from which I captured images and made transcripts, I propose that participants used certain pragmatic displays—in particular, gesture, metaphor, and prosody—as metapragmatic devices simultaneously to advance their shared task of legal categorizing and to position themselves and one another as winners, losers, and bystanders. Participants integrated these displays multimodally with their words in order to make arguments as well as to repurpose arguments made in preceding turns. The article contributes to the literature on stance‐taking and format‐tying techniques and also contributes to the literature on the construction of social identity through courtroom interaction. In particular, it demonstrates that the deployment of this repertoire to help achieve stances inside the courtroom also helped project those stances outward to competing social views on sexual orientation.
No Magic Tricks: Commodity, Empowerment, and the Sale of StreetWise in Chicago
Authors: McGill Kenneth
Published: June 2013

Use‐value and exchange‐value are pragmatic features of commodity exchange which are apparent from the careful study of specific interactions, as well as from the viewpoint of economic processes at large. While Marx's well‐known attempt to describe this pair of concepts in Capital (2001) takes the latter tack, I attempt here to take the former—i.e., to approach the composition of the commodity from the point of view of the pragmatics of interaction. In doing so, I offer a semiotic model of the valuation of commodities which differs from accounts given by Kockelman (2006) and Agha (2011). The ethnographic object at stake in this essay is StreetWise, a Chicago street newspaper said to have “empowering” effects on its vendors.
Understanding Students' Perceptions of a High School Course Designed to Enhance School Connectedness
Authors: Chung‐Do Jane , Filibeck Karla , Goebert Deborah A. , Arakawa Garrett , Fraser Dawn , Laboy Jill , Minakami Derek
Published: June 2013

BACKGROUND

This study was a part of an evaluation of a 4‐year high school course to enhance students' school connectedness from freshman to senior year with primarily an Asian and Pacific Islander student body in Hawai‘i. The purpose of this study was to understand how the course may impact students' sense of school connectedness and identify factors important in course effectiveness.

METHODS

Focus group guides were developed in collaboration with course instructors. Approximately 70 students from each grade level were randomly selected to participate in focus groups. All focus groups occurred during the 30‐minute lunch period and lunch was provided.

RESULTS

Focus groups conducted with 67 students revealed that students perceive teachers to play an essential role in the effectiveness of the course. Students also viewed the small class size and staying in the same class for all 4 years as important components in supporting the relationship‐building aspect of the course, which enhances students' level of academic motivation and school involvement. Suggestions for ways that teachers can help build students' sense of school connectedness through the course included integrating their personal experiences into the lessons and facilitating more interactive discussions and team‐building activities.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that students recognize the course as a valuable opportunity to build personal relationships that are essential to their sense of school connectedness. Schools should make more effort at incorporating strategies that build students' sense of school connectedness by providing relationship‐building opportunities.
Paediatric Active Enhanced Disease Surveillance: A new surveillance system for Australia
Authors: Zurynski Yvonne , McIntyre Peter , Booy Robert , Elliott Elizabeth J ,   PAEDS Investigators Group
Published: June 2013

Aim

The Paediatric Active Enhanced Disease Surveillance (PAEDS) is described. PAEDS is active in four tertiary children's hospitals in four states of Australia and aims to address gaps in surveillance for severe vaccine‐preventable diseases and adverse events following immunisation.

Methods

From August 2007 to December 2010, surveillance nurses actively identified and recruited children admitted with: acute flaccid paralysis, varicella infection, intussusception, seizures in infants and pandemic influenza (June–October 2009). Details of presentation, medical and immunisation history, outcome and laboratory results were collected. Completeness of ascertainment was estimated through audits of International Classification of Diseases 10th edition‐coded medical records where possible.

Results

Seven hundred thirty‐three cases matching case definition criteria for the four conditions were recruited. In addition, 601 cases of influenza were recruited during the 2009 pandemic. PAEDS enhanced acute flaccid paralysis surveillance by the Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit; the World Health Organization surveillance target was met when Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit and PAEDS cases were combined. Among 133 children hospitalised for varicella, only 16 were vaccinated; samples of vesicle scrapings were collected in 57% for genotyping. Of 122 infants presenting with seizures, only six (12%) had received a vaccine in the last 7 days. Intussusception was more frequent among infants receiving their first dose of either of the rotavirus vaccines. Results informed policy and education for parents and health professionals. Preliminary audits of medical records suggest excellent ascertainment through PAEDS.

Conclusions

PAEDS provides important, previously unavailable data to inform public health policy, clinical practice and community confidence. It has potential to respond quickly during outbreaks and epidemics.
Clinical and neurological findings of severe vitamin B12 deficiency in infancy and importance of early diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Demir Nihat , Koc Ahmet , Üstyol Lokman , Peker Erdal , Abuhandan Mahmut
Published: June 2013

Aim

Nutritional vitamin B12 deficiency among children in developing countries may lead to a severe clinical status. In this article, the clinical manifestations of vitamin B12 deficiency and the consequences of delay in its diagnosis have been evaluated.

Methods

A total of 41 patients who were hospitalised and treated with the diagnosis of severe vitamin B12 deficiency in the paediatric haematology department of the hospital were enrolled in the trial. The diagnosis of severe vitamin B12 deficiency was based on haematological values, a serum vitamin B12 level of <100 pg/mL and a normal level of folic acid. Mental, neuro‐motor and social developments of the enrolled patients were assessed by the same physician using the Ankara Developmental Screening Inventory.

Results

The mean age of 25 male and 16 female patients was determined as 12 (6–18 months) months. Almost all of the children had been fed with breast milk and a poor nutritional state was found in all of the mothers. Non‐specific findings such as growth retardation (78%), hyperpigmentation of the skin (78%), diarrhoea (63.4%), convulsion (14.6%), weakness, reluctance to eat, vomiting, irritability and tremor were found in all the patients, in addition to hypotonia, motor retardation and pallor. Treatment with vitamin B12 provided recovery in all the patients. The mean age of the patients with full recovery was 11.7 months, while the mean age of patients with partial recovery was 12.9 months.

Conclusion

As a delay in the diagnosis causes irreversible neurological damage, early diagnosis and treatment is highly important.
Response to growth hormone treatment in Prader–Willi syndrome: Auxological criteria versus genetic diagnosis
Authors: Scheermeyer Elly , Hughes Ian , Harris Mark , Ambler Geoff , Crock Patricia , Verge Charles F , Craig Maria E , Bergman Phil , Werther George , van Driel Mieke , Davies Peter SW , Choong Catherine SY
Published: June 2013

Aim

The Australian Prader‐Willi Syndrome (PWS) database was established to monitor the efficacy and safety of growth hormone (GH) treatment in PWS. This study aims to compare response to GH based on eligibility criteria.

Methods

Comparative study: 72 children received GH on the basis of short stature or evidence of GH deficiency (pre‐2009: PWS‐SS) and 94 on a genetic diagnosis (post‐2009: PWS‐Dx). We report on mandatory patient data for GH prescription: median and standard deviation score (SDS) for height and body mass index (BMI), waist/height ratio, bone age/chronological age ratio and adverse events. Comparisons were made using non‐parametric tests.

Results

At baseline, the PWS‐SS cohort was shorter (height SDS: –2.6 vs. –1.1, P < 0.001), had a lower BMI (0.6 vs. 1.5 SDS, P < 0.05) and greater bone age delay (bone age/chronological age: 0.7 vs. 0.9, P < 0.05) than the PWS‐Dx cohort. PWS‐SS parents were shorter (mid‐parental height SDS: −0.13 vs. 0.28, P < 0.005). Mean change in height over 2 years was 0.9 SDS and in BMI using PWS reference standards –0.3 SDSPWS (n = 106) (year 2, height SDS: PWS‐SS = –1.7, PWS‐Dx = 0.1; BMI SDSPWS: PWS‐SS = –1.0, PWS‐Dx = –0.6). The waist/height ratio reduced (PWS‐Dx: 0.60 vs. 0.56, P < 0.05) and bone age delay was unchanged over this period. No serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

The PWS‐SS cohort represents a subgroup of the wider PWS‐Dx population; however both cohorts improved height SDS with normalisation of height in the PWS‐Dx cohort and lowering of BMI relative to PWS standards supporting the efficacy of treatment under the current Australian GH programme.
MICROPOROSITY IN THE UPPER JURASSIC ARAB‐D CARBONATE RESERVOIR, CENTRAL SAUDI ARABIA: AN OUTCROP ANALOGUE STUDY
Authors: Eltom H. , Abdullatif O. , Makkawi M. , Abdulraziq A.
Published: June 2013

This study investigates microporosity in an outcrop analogue of the Upper Jurassic (Kimmeridgian) Arab‐D carbonate reservoir in central Saudi Arabia, integrating outcrop facies analysis, petrographic and SEM data and statistical analyses. At the study location in Wadi Nisah, the outcropping succession includes the uppermost Jubaila Formation and the entire Arab‐D Member of the Arab Formation which together comprise the Arab‐D reservoir interval. The succession is composed of eight lithofacies which can be grouped into three lithofacies associations based on their depositional environments. The stromatoporoid lithofacies association includes dolomitic mudstones, dolomitic wackestones and stromatoporoid wackestones and packstones; the skeletal bank lithofacies association includes burrowed fossiliferous wackestones and peloidal fossiliferous grainstones; and the tidal flat lithofacies association comprises laminated mudstones, wave‐rippled sandy grainstones, and supra‐ and intertidal muds with rip‐up clasts. The lithofacies were classified into mud‐dominated, grain‐dominated and dolostone textural groups.

Microporosity and associated permeability in the analysed samples (n = 125 for porosity and n = 61 for permeability) range from 0.11% to 4.8 % and 0.36 to 4.35 mD, respectively. Three types of microporosity were observed: (i) between macro‐ and micro‐sparry calcite crystals; (ii) between micrites of varying morphologies; and (iii) within macro‐sized dolomite crystals. Microporosity distribution was controlled by sparry calcite cement, micrite crystal size, sorting and shape, and the presence of dolomite crystals.

Statistical analyses of microporosity and associated permeability show non‐normal distributions for both variables. Coefficients of variation indicated high variability for porosity and permeability, which may be attributed to the high degree of heterogeneity in the pore system. In general there was a poor correlation between microporosity and permeability, but the correlation improved when visualized for individual textural groups.
Natural Infection of Maize by Cucumber Mosaic Virus in China
Authors: Wang Rong , Wang Nian , Ye Ting , Chen Hui , Fan Zaifeng , Zhou Tao
Published: June 2013

In July 2012, symptoms of irregular mosaic stripe and mottle were observed on maize leaves in field in Beijing, China. The causal pathogen was identified to be Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) based upon reverse transcription‐PCR, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, Western blotting and fulfilment of Koch's postulates. The isolate was named ZMBJ‐CMV. Full sequence of ZMBJ‐CMV RNA3 was determined, and it had the highest identity to that of strain K‐CMV (95.03%) and SD‐CMV (94.96%). Phylogenetic analysis revealed ZMBJ‐CMV clustered with K‐CMV and SD‐CMV in subgroup IB. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the natural infection and phylogenetic analysis of CMV on maize in China.
Parents With Intellectual Disability and Their Children: Advances in Policy and Practice
Authors: Llewellyn Gwynnyth
Published: June 2013

In many countries, women and men with intellectual disability (ID) marry and have children of their own; however, in some countries, this is still taboo. Reproduction and parenting by people with ID is often a “hot” topic. Important questions related to this phenomenon include: Can people with ID provide “good enough” parenting? Can they be taught to be good parents? What about their children; should their children be taken away and cared for by someone else? Issues concerning healthcare that can support parenting, together with what supports are necessary for people to exercise the right to retain their fertility and to have their own family bear examination. In the Asia‐Pacific region, an expanding focus on disability rights, deinstitutionalization, and inclusive policies means that there are more opportunities for people with ID to become parents. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and the Incheon Strategy to “Make the Right Real” for Persons with Disabilities in Asia and the Pacific region both address these issues. Both promote disability‐inclusive policies and practices derived from a rights‐based framework; the right to reproduction is viewed as a fundamental human right and individual freedom. However, parenting rights and responsibilities are governed by cultural mores and societal traditions. Research primarily from high‐income countries across the last four decades demonstrates that most parents with ID can provide sufficiently good parenting when appropriate supports are in place. Research on this topic to advance policy and practice needs to happen in specific national, geographical, cultural, and societal contexts. Furthermore, policy development is required to meet the goals and targets of the Incheon Strategy. Regional networks and national organizations of and for people with disabilities are challenged to include reproductive care and parenting programs in their policy and advocacy work.
Epilepsy and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Oguni Hirokazu
Published: June 2013

The co‐occurrence of epilepsy in people with intellectual disabilities (ID) and other developmental disabilities (DD) has received attention because it has a significant negative impact on health, well‐being, and quality of life. The current research investigating the frequency and form of epilepsy in children with ID and DD is reviewed, with particular attention is paid to children presenting with coexisting autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Complications in assessment and treatment arising from comorbidities are considered. The most recent and epidemiological survey of children with epilepsy demonstrates that approximately one‐fourth of patients with childhood epilepsy had ID. The prevalence of DD (including ADHD and ASD) in children with epilepsy ranges from 7.1% to 32%, which exceeds that of the general population. Multiple studies have suggested that ADHD in children with epilepsy is largely comorbid rather than cause and effect because it is already present before the onset of epilepsy in 80% of these children. However, the co‐occurrence of epilepsy and ASDs is frequent in people with known organic brain disorders, in which several causal relationships have been speculated. Recent studies have shown that the severity of ID is an important factor in determining the incidence of epilepsy complications in those with ASD, and also the incidence of ASD complications in those with epilepsy. The co‐occurrence of epilepsy, ID, and DD appears common. ID might play a key role in increasing the burden of epilepsy, as well as DD comorbidity. The comorbidity of ID and DD in patients with epilepsy might reduce the seizure threshold, resulting in an increase in the frequency of seizures as well as epileptiform electroencephalographic abnormalities, although evidence is limited and further investigations are warranted.
IASSIDD: Are We Practicing Knowledge Translation Effectively?
Authors: Timmons Vianne
Published: June 2013

The International Association for the Study of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IASSIDD) was established in the early 1960s with the mission of advancing research in the field of intellectual disabilities. This article explores the history and impact of IASSIDD. In particular, it focuses on IASSIDD's role in the area of knowledge translation and promoting research to practice. The history of IASSIDD is documented. Its evolution is analyzed in the context of social, political, and scientific developments across the globe over the past 40 years. There has been an increased focus on evidence‐based decision making and improving practice through research. There is evidence of a shifting emphasis from a primarily medicalized understanding of people with disability and their needs, to a focus that now includes the social, cultural, and economic needs of people with disability and their families. Greater attention is being paid to the construction of policy and service systems that are person‐centered in their orientation, taking into account the priorities and aspirations of individuals, and emphasizing concepts such as inclusion, choice, and self‐determination. Consistent with this, there is growing emphasis on inclusive research processes that value the cocreation of knowledge in partnership with people with disability and their families. IASSIDD and our disability research community need to discover and implement new methods of knowledge generation and translation. As an association that values research to practice, and improving the lives of people with disabilities, IASSIDD plays a major role in refining and promoting these emerging approaches to knowledge generation and translation, and their integration into policy and service developments.
Imbalance between circulating CD4+ regulatory T and conventional T lymphocytes in patients with HBV‐related acute‐on‐chronic liver failure
Authors: Dong Xiaojun , Gong Yu , Zeng Hui , Hao Yu , Wang Xianbo , Hou Jing , Wang Jiefei , Li Juan , Zhu Yueke , Liu Haixia , Han Junyan , Zhou Haiwei , Shen Liwei , Gao Ting , Zhou Tingting , Yang Shuyin , Li Shuting , Chen Yingxuan , Meng Qinghua , Li Hai
Published: June 2013

Background & Aims

The important pathophysiological role of immune dysfunction, especially innate immune dysfunction in patients with acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF), has been investigated in recent years, but dysregulation of adaptive immunity remains poorly elucidated. The aim of this study was to (i) determine the CD3+ T‐lymphocyte count and the balance between CD4+ regulatory T (Tregs) and conventional T cells (Tconv) in hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related ACLF patients; (ii) analyse the frequencies of Tregs subpopulations; and (iii) assess the suppressive potency of CD4+ Tregs and each fraction.

Methods

We enrolled 20 HBV‐ACLF patients, 10 septic shock subjects, 20 chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients and 20 healthy volunteers (HC). Based on flow cytometry, we performed the absolute counting of circulating T lymphocytes and phenotyping of CD4+ Tregs and quantified the effects of Tregs and each subpopulation on Tconv proliferation by CFSE staining.

Results

Compared with CHB patients and HC, we observed an equal reduction in peripheral T subsets in HBV‐ACLF and septic shock subjects; the number of CD4+ Tregs remained unchanged and the Tconv count declined, promoting elevation of the Treg‐to‐Tconv ratio. The frequencies of Treg‐II and ‐III were elevated in HBV‐ACLF. Functional studies showed that the suppressive capacity of Tregs was preserved in the HBV‐ACLF group and Treg‐II came first.

Conclusions

Similar to septic shock subjects, in HBV‐ACLF patients there exists a reduction in CD4+ T lymphocytes, predominantly CD4+ Tconv, and the development of suppressive CD4+ Tregs greatly prevails over Tconv, constituting important characteristics of adaptive immune dysfunction of HBV‐ACLF.
Health‐related quality of life and severity of fatigue in HIV/HCV co‐infected patients before, during, and after antiviral therapy with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin
Authors: Mandorfer Mattias , Payer Berit A. , Scheiner Bernhard , Breitenecker Florian , Aichelburg Maximilian C. , Grabmeier‐Pfistershammer Katharina , Rieger Armin , Trauner Michael , Peck‐Radosavljevic Markus , Reiberger Thomas
Published: June 2013

The aim of this study was to prospectively assess health‐related quality of life (HRQL) and severity of fatigue before, during and after antiviral therapy in HIV/HCV co‐infected patients.

Design

59 HIV/HCV co‐infected patients receiving pegylated interferon plus ribavirin (PEGIFN+RBV) in the HIVCOPEG study were included in this substudy evaluating the secondary endpoints HRQL and severity of fatigue.

Methods

HRQL and severity of fatigue were assessed using SF36 and FSS, respectively. Advanced liver fibrosis was defined as METAVIR F3/F4 or liver stiffness >9.5 kPa.

Results

At baseline, advanced liver fibrosis was associated with worse physical health. Mental health was impaired in female patients and in patients with a history of intravenous drug abuse, while a history of depression was associated with higher severity of fatigue. Female gender was associated with a more pronounced relative decrease in mental health during therapy. At follow‐up, 24 weeks after the end of therapy, both physical health and fatigue symptoms had improved. Virological response was associated with better physical and mental health, as well as with reduced severity of fatigue. A correlation between anemia grade and the relative impairments in physical health, mental health and fatigue was observed.

Conclusions

Antiviral therapy with PEGIFN+RBV impairs physical and mental health and increases severity of fatigue, while virological response is associated with improvements in physical health and fatigue symptoms. The optimization of anemia management is essential for reducing the burden of impaired HRQL and fatigue in HIV/HCV co‐infected patients receiving antiviral therapy with PEGIFN+RBV.
Safety and efficacy of faldaprevir with pegylated interferon alfa‐2a and ribavirin in Japanese patients with chronic genotype‐1 hepatitis C infection
Authors: Nishiguchi Shuhei , Sakai Yoshiyuki , Kuboki Makoto , Tsunematsu Satoshi , Urano Yasuhisa , Sakamoto Wataru , Tsuda Yasuhiro , Steinmann Gerhard , Omata Masao
Published: June 2013

Abstract

Background & Aims

Faldaprevir (BI 201335) is a potent once‐daily (QD) NS3/4A protease inhibitor for the treatment of patients with genotype‐1 (GT‐1) hepatitis C virus (HCV). The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics and efficacy of faldaprevir plus pegylated interferon alfa‐2a (PegIFN) and ribavirin (RBV) in Japanese patients infected with chronic GT‐1 HCV.

Methods

Part 1 of this phase II study was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, dose‐ascending study. Treatment‐naïve patients received faldaprevir 120 or 240 mg QD, or placebo, plus PegIFN/RBV for 4 weeks, then PegIFN/RBV alone for 44 weeks. In Part 2 (open label), treatment‐experienced patients received faldaprevir 240 mg QD plus PegIFN/RBV for 4 weeks, then PegIFN/RBV alone for 44 weeks. Efficacy was assessed using sustained virological response (SVR) 24 weeks after treatment completion. The pharmacokinetics, safety and tolerability of faldaprevir were also assessed.

Results

SVR was achieved by 4/6 (67%) treatment‐naïve patients treated with faldaprevir 120 mg QD, 5/6 (83%) patients treated with faldaprevir 240 mg QD and 2/4 (50%) patients who received placebo. Of the treatment‐experienced patients, 3/6 (50%) achieved SVR. Faldaprevir was well tolerated. There was one serious adverse event, which was not considered to be treatment related. Rash and hyperbilirubinaemia were more frequently reported with faldaprevir than with placebo in treatment‐naïve patients, but no cases were severe or serious and none led to discontinuation. Steady‐state plasma concentrations of faldaprevir were reached within 7 days of QD dosing.

Conclusions

Faldaprevir with PegIFN/RBV was efficacious and well tolerated, supporting further evaluation of this combination in Japanese patients.
Comparing echosounder efficiency using field observations
Authors: Everson Inigo , Kayanda Robert , Taabu‐Munyaho Anthony
Published: June 2013

Time series, using different echosounders or large‐scale multiship acoustic surveys, can be criticized because equipment changes might affect the final results. This criticism was addressed previously by comparing the results from different vessels using echo integration on the target species. The acoustically estimated standing stock of Nile perch (Lates niloticus) in Lake Victoria, East Africa, declined to 50% between successive surveys six months apart in 2007, prompting the criticism that a change in echosounder was responsible for this observation. This concern has been addressed, using data from the same four small localities around the lake, Emin Pasha Gulf, Nyanza Gulf, Speke Gulf and the vicinity of the Sesse Islands, from six surveys, spanning the time when the change in echosounder occurred. For three of the locations, echo integration and single target detections within the first bottom echo indicated no significant differences in echosounder performance. Results from the fourth location, Sesse Islands, showed very low backscatter, possibly due to a layer of detritus on the lake bed. It is concluded that all data are equally comparable, providing echosounders are correctly calibrated with the vessel being stationary, although there may still be differences under operational conditions. Characteristics of intercalibration sites are discussed in this study. The results also show changes in substrate, likely attributable to local environmental changes between surveys.
Co‐immunoprecipitation‐based identification of putative BAX INHIBITOR‐1‐interacting proteins involved in cell death regulation and plant–powdery mildew interactions
Authors: Weis Corina , Pfeilmeier Sebastian , Glawischnig Erich , Isono Erika , Pachl Fiona , Hahne Hannes , Kuster Bernhard , Eichmann Ruth , Hückelhoven Ralph
Published: June 2013

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐resident BAX INHIBITOR‐1 (BI‐1) protein is one of a few cell death suppressors known to be conserved in animals and plants. The function of BI‐1 proteins in response to various biotic and abiotic stress factors is well established. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms. We conducted co‐immunoprecipitation (co‐IP) experiments to identify Arabidopsis thaliana BI‐1‐interacting proteins to obtain a potentially better understanding of how BI‐1 functions during plant–pathogen interactions and as a suppressor of cell death. Liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) identified 95 proteins co‐immunoprecipitated with green fluorescing protein (GFP)‐tagged BI‐1. Five selected candidate proteins, a RIBOPHORIN II (RPN2) family protein, VACUOLAR ATP SYNTHASE SUBUNIT A (VHA‐A), cytochrome P450 83A1 (CYP83A1), H+‐ATPASE 1 (AHA1) and PROHIBITIN 2 (PHB2), were further investigated with regard to their role in BI‐1‐associated processes. To this end, we analysed a set of Arabidopsis mutants in the interaction with the adapted powdery mildew fungus Erysiphe cruciferarum and on cell death‐inducing treatments. Two independent rpn2 knock‐down mutants tended to better support powdery mildew, and a phb2 mutant showed altered responses to cell death‐inducing Alternaria alternata f.sp. lycopersici (AAL) toxin treatment. Two independent cyp83a1 mutants showed a strong powdery mildew resistance phenotype and enhanced sensitivity to AAL toxin. Moreover, co‐localization studies and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) experiments suggested a direct interaction of BI‐1 with CYP83A1 at the ER.
Microbial communities within field‐collectedCuliseta melanuraandCoquillettidia perturbans
Authors: ANDREWS E. S. , XU G. , RICH S. M.
Published: June 2013

Although mosquitoes are well‐known vectors of human and animal diseases, pathogens are only minor components of their total endogenous microbial communities. The midguts of many insects, including mosquitoes, contain diverse microbial communities. In this study, we used denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis to identify the diversity of bacteria in field‐collected adult femaleCuliseta melanura(Diptera: Culicidae) (Coquillett) andCoquillettidia perturbans(Diptera: Culicidae) (Walker). Few significant differences in bacterial fauna between the two mosquito species were found, but the results suggest that host life history may be a determinant of the endogenous bacterial communities in mosquitoes. In the present study, the dominant bacteria are frequently identified as major components of other mosquito species' microbial flora, suggesting the establishment of a stable association between the mosquitoes and the microbes after initial acquisition from the environment.
Intermedin/adrenomedullin 2 protects against tubular cell hypoxia‐reoxygenation injury in vitro by promoting cell proliferation and upregulating cyclin D1 expression
Authors: Wang Yanhong , Li Rongshan , Qiao Xi , Tian Jihua , Su Xiaole , Wu Ruiping , Zhang Ruijing , Zhou Xiaoshuang , Li Jiaming , Shao Shan
Published: June 2013

Aim

Intermedin/adrenomedullin 2 (IMD/ADM2) is a newly discovered peptide closely related to adrenomedullin. We recently reported that IMD/ADM2 gene transfer could significantly reduce renal ischaemia/reperfusion injury. In this study, we evaluated the effect of IMD/ADM2 on cell proliferation and regeneration in a cultured rat renal tubular epithelial cell line (NRK‐52E) of hypoxia‐reoxygenation (H/R) injury.

Methods

The H/R model in NRK‐52E cells consisted of hypoxia for 1 h and reoxygenation for 2 h. IMD/ADM2 was overexpressed in NRK‐52E cells using the vector pcDNA3.1‐IMD. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays were used to measure the concentration of IMD/ADM2 in the culture medium, and real‐time PCR and Western blotting were used to determine mRNA and protein levels. In addition, luciferase reporter assays and electrophoretic mobility‐shift assays were performed to measure cyclin D1 promoter activity and transcription factor activity.

Results

We found that IMD/ADM2 gene transfer markedly promoted cell viability and decreased lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and cell apoptosis compared with that of H/R. IMD/ADM2 increased the phosphorylation of ERK and decreased the phosphorylation of JNK and P38. Furthermore, IMD/ADM2 promoted cell cycle progression with concomitant increases in the levels of cyclin D1 and cyclin E, and these effects were blocked by the inhibition of ERK, or the agonist JNK and P38. IMD/ADM2 also increased cyclin D1 promoter activity and AP‐1 DNA‐binding activity.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that IMD/ADM2 promotes renal cell proliferation and regeneration after renal H/R injury by upregulating cyclin D1 and that this upregulation seems to be mediated by the ERK, JNK, and P38 MAPK signalling pathways.
Fallibility and Trust
Authors: Rosenkranz Sven
Published: June 2013

I argue that while admission of one's own fallibility rationally requires one's readiness to stand corrected in the light of future evidence, it need have no consequences for one's present degrees of belief. In particular, I argue that one's fallibility in a given area gives one no reason to forego assigning credence 1 to propositions belonging to that area. I can thus be seen to take issue with David Christensen's recent claim that our fallibility has far‐reaching consequences for our account of rational belief and epistemic rationality. My argumentsinter aliarely on the idea that in basing one's beliefs on one's evidence, one trusts both that one's evidence has the right pedigree and that one gets its probative force right, where such trust can rationally be invested without the need of any further evidence.