bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of vascular endothelial growth factor upregulation on retinal gene expression in the Kimba mouse
Authors: Binz Nicolette , Ali Rahman Ireni S , Chinnery Holly R , McKeone Richard , Simpson Ken M , Speed Terence P , Lai Chooi‐May , Rakoczy P Elizabeth
Published: July 2012

Abstract

Background:  The Kimba mouse carries a human vascular endothelial growth factor transgene causing retinal neovascularisation similar to that seen in diabetic retinopathy. Here, we examine the relationship between differential gene expression induced by vascular endothelial growth factor overexpression and the architectural changes that occur in the retinae of these mice.

Methods:  Retinal gene expression changes in juvenile and adult Kimba mice were assayed by microarray and compared with age‐matched wild‐type littermates. Transcription of selected genes was validated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Protein translation was determined using immunohistochemistry and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:  Semaphorin 3C was upregulated, and nuclear receptor subfamily 2, group 3, member 3 (Nr2e3) was downregulated in juvenile Kimba mice. Betacellulin and endothelin 2 were upregulated in adults. Semaphorin 3C colocalized with glial fibrillary acidic protein in Müller cells of Kimba retinae at greater signal intensities than in wild type. Endothelin 2 colocalised to Müller cell end feet and extended into the outer limiting membrane. Endothelin receptor type B staining was most pronounced in the inner nuclear layer, the region containing Müller cell somata.

Conclusions:  An early spike in vascular endothelial growth factor induced significant long‐term retinal neovascularisation associated with changes to the retinal ganglion, photoreceptor and Müller cells. Overexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor led to dysregulation of photoreceptor metabolism through differential expression of Nr2e3, endothelin 2, betacellulin and semaphorin 3C. Alterations in the expression of these genes may therefore play key roles in the pathological mechanisms that result from retinal neovascularisation.
Diagnosis and interventions for central serous chorioretinopathy: review and update
Authors: Quin Godfrey , Liew Gerald , Ho I‐Van , Gillies Mark , Fraser‐Bell Samantha
Published: July 2012

Abstract

Most acute cases of central serous chorioretinopathy resolve spontaneously with minimal visual impairment. The small percentage of eyes developing chronic or recurrent disease that do warrant treatment is often difficult to control. Emergent investigations and treatments have added to the established options available to manage these cases. Optical coherence tomography has proved valuable for both imaging subtle fundoscopic findings and monitoring disease progression. Fluorescein angiography aids identification of pigment epithelial leaks and targets the use of argon laser treatment if outside the fovea. Fluorescein angiography also assists differentiation from other choroidal pathologies such as choroidal neovascularization and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy. Where the diagnosis is uncertain, indocyanine green angiography can demonstrate classic midphase hyperpermeability. This is also useful to guide the application of photodynamic therapy. Newer treatments such as intravitreal anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor are as yet unproven.
Identification of chronic stress‐activated regions reveals a potential recruited circuit in rat brain
Authors: Flak Jonathan N. , Solomon Matia B. , Jankord Ryan , Krause Eric G. , Herman James P.
Published: July 2012

Chronic stress induces presynaptic and postsynaptic modifications in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus that are consistent with enhanced excitatory hypothalamo‐pituitary‐adrenocortical (HPA) axis drive. The brain regions mediating these molecular modifications are not known. We hypothesized that chronic variable stress (CVS) tonically activates stress‐excitatory regions that interact with the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, culminating in stress facilitation. In order to identify chronically activated brain regions, ΔFosB, a documented marker of tonic neuronal activation, was assessed in known stress regulatory limbic and brainstem sites. Four experimental groups were included: CVS, repeated restraint (RR) (control for HPA habituation), animals weight‐matched (WM) to CVS animals (control for changes in circulating metabolic factors due to reduced weight gain), and non‐handled controls. CVS, (but not RR or WM) induced adrenal hypertrophy, indicating that sustained HPA axis drive only occurred in the CVS group. CVS (but not RR or WM) selectively increased the number of FosB/ΔFosB nuclei in the nucleus of the solitary tract, posterior hypothalamic nucleus, and both the infralimbic and prelimbic divisions of the medial prefrontal cortex, indicating an involvement of these regions in chronic drive of the HPA axis. Increases in FosB/ΔFosB‐immunoreactive cells were observed following both RR and CVS in the other regions (e.g. the dorsomedial hypothalamus), suggesting activation by both habituating and non‐habituating stress conditions. The data suggest that unpredictable stress uniquely activates interconnected cortical, hypothalamic, and brainstem nuclei, potentially revealing the existence of a recruited circuitry mediating chronic drive of brain stress effector systems.
Standard vs mini‐laparoscopic pyeloplasty: perioperative outcomes and cosmetic results
Authors: Fiori Cristian , Morra Ivano , Bertolo Riccardo , Mele Fabrizio , Chiarissi Marco Lucci , Porpiglia Francesco
Published: July 2012

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

New techniques and instrumentation in laparoscopy including the use of ‘single‐port’ devices and natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery have been proposed to reduce the invasiveness of these procedures. The introduction of small laparoscopic instruments (<3 mm) continues to further the field. To date, mini‐laparoscopic instruments have been used in many urological procedures, e.g. pyeloplasty in the paediatric population. However, data of pure mini‐laparoscopic pyeloplasty (mLP) for the treatment of pelvi‐ureteric junction obstruction in the adult population are lacking.

In a selected adult population mLP is feasible and safe. Perioperative and 1‐year functional results are comparable with those of standard LP, while cosmetic results of mLP are more appreciated by the patients.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate perioperative and cosmetic results after pure mini‐laparoscopic pyeloplasty (mLP) compared with standard LP (sLP) in an adult population.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From April 2009 to June 2010, 12 patients underwent mLP for pelvi‐ureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction (PUJO). For comparison, 24 patients that had previously undergone sLP were pooled from our institutional database.

All patients were assessed preoperatively with physical examination, abdominal ultrasonography, intravenous urography or computed tomography and renal scintigraphy (RS). In all cases, an Anderson‐Hynes transperitoneal approach was used.

After surgery, cosmetic results were assessed using a Patient Scar Assessment Questionnaire (PSAQ), and RS measured reconstructive success at 1‐year after LP.

Demographic and perioperative variables were recorded. Groups were compared using chi‐squared and Wilcoxon‐Mann‐Whitney tests (P < 0.05 was considered significant).

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were similar between the groups. There were no differences in operative duration or blood loss. One mLP required conversion to sLP due to minor bleeding.

Analgesic consumption and the pain visual analogue scale scores were not significantly different between the sLP and mLP cohorts.

The average postoperative hospital stay for the mLP group was significantly shorter than that for the sLP group (P= 0.024).

Complication and success rates between the groups were not significantly different.

PSAQ scores showed that mLP patients were significantly more satisfied with their cosmetic result.

CONCLUSIONS

mLP appears to be safe, feasible and effective in the treatment of PUJOs.

Cosmetically, mLP is better than sLP.
Strategies to support breastfeeding: a review
Authors: Demirtas B.
Published: July 2012

DEMİRTAS B. (2012) Strategies to support breastfeeding: a review. International Nursing Review

Background:  Mothers need to be given support, confidence and encouragement to successful breastfeeding. The importance of breastfeeding support has been addressed in numerous studies. However, reviews to explore strategies to support breastfeeding are sparse.

Aim:  The study aims to explore strategies to support breastfeeding. It was also aimed to reveal how the international papers compare with the Turkish situation.

Methods:  Searches of CINAHL, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science databases, Cochrane databases, Turkish health databases were conducted for data collection. The search was limited to articles published between the years 1995 and 2011, focusing on the strategies related to the support received by mothers. Two experts independently read and analysed 38 articles.

Findings:  Thirty‐eight papers were included in this review. The findings identified strategies to support breastfeeding. These include collaboration with community and family members; confidence building; appropriate ratio of staffing levels; development of communication skills; and ‘closing the gap’ in inequalities in health.

Conclusion:  Mothers benefit from strategies that encourage breastfeeding, with guidance that supports their self‐efficacy and feelings of being capable and empowered, and is tailored to their individual needs.
Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security in Tanzania
Authors: Arndt Channing , Farmer William , Strzepek Kenneth , Thurlow James
Published: July 2012

Due to their reliance on rain‐fed agriculture, both as a source of income and consumption, many low‐income countries are considered to be the most vulnerable to climate change. Here, we estimate the impact of climate change on food security in Tanzania. Representative climate projections are used in calibrated crop models to predict crop yield changes for 110 districts in Tanzania. These results are in turn imposed on a highly disaggregated, recursive dynamic economy‐wide model of Tanzania. We find that, relative to a no‐climate‐change baseline and considering domestic agricultural production as the channel of impact, food security in Tanzania appears likely to deteriorate as a consequence of climate change. The analysis points to a high degree of diversity of outcomes (including some favorable outcomes) across climate scenarios, sectors, and regions. Noteworthy differences in impacts across households are also present both by region and by income category.
Climate Change, Growth and Infrastructure Investment: The Case of Mozambique
Authors: Arndt Channing , Chinowsky Paul , Strzepek Kenneth , Thurlow James
Published: July 2012

Climate change may damage road infrastructure, to the potential detriment of economic growth, particularly in developing countries. To quantitatively assess climate change's consequences, we incorporate a climate–infrastructure model based on stressor–response relationships directly into a recursive dynamic economy‐wide model to estimate and compare road damages with other climate change impact channels. We apply this framework to Mozambique and simulate four future climate scenarios. Our results indicate that climate change through 2050 is likely to place a drag on economic growth and development prospects. The economic implications of climate change appear to become more pronounced from about 2030. Nevertheless, the implications are not so strong as to drastically diminish development prospects. Our findings suggest that impact assessments should include damages to long‐run assets, such as road infrastructure, imposed by climate change.
A Super Camassa–Holm Equation with N‐Peakon Solutions
Authors: Geng Xianguo , Xue Bo , Wu Lihua
Published: July 2012

A super Camassa–Holm equation with peakon solutions is proposed, which is associated with a 3 × 3 matrix spectral problem with two potentials. With the aid of the zero‐curvature equation, we derive a hierarchy of super Harry Dym type equations and establish their Hamiltonian structures. It is shown that the super Camassa–Holm equation is exactly a negative flow in the hierarchy and admits exact solutions with N peakons. As an example, exact 1‐peakon solutions of the super Camassa–Holm equation are given. Infinitely many conserved quantities of the super Camassa–Holm equation and the super Harry Dym type equation are, respectively, obtained.
Ermakov–Ray–Reid Reductions of Variational Approximations in Nonlinear Optics
Authors: Rogers Colin , Malomed Boris , An Hongli
Published: July 2012

Integrable Hamiltonian systems of Ermakov‐Ray‐Reid type are shown to arise out of variational approximation to certain modulated NLS models as well as in spiralling elliptic soliton systems and their generalization in a Bose‐Einstein setting.
Stroke due to atrial fibrillation in a population‐based stroke registry (Ludwigshafen Stroke Study) CHADS2, CHA2DS2‐VASc score, underuse of oral anticoagulation, and implications for preventive measures
Authors: Palm F. , Kleemann T. , Dos Santos M. , Urbanek C. , Buggle F. , Safer A. , Hennerici M. G. , Becher H. , Zahn R. , Grau A. J.
Published: July 2012

Background and purpose

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is amongst the most important etiologies of ischaemic stroke. In a population‐based stroke registry, we tested the hypothesis of low adherence to current guidelines as a main cause of high rates of AF‐associated stroke.

Methods

Within the Ludwigshafen Stroke Study (LuSSt), a prospective ongoing population‐based stroke register, we analyzed all patients with a first‐ever ischaemic stroke (FEIS) owing to AF in 2006 and 2007. We determined whether AF was diagnosed before stroke and assessed pre‐stroke CHADS2 and CHA2DS2‐VASc scores.

Results

In total, 187 of 626 patients with FEIS suffered from cardioembolic stroke owing to AF, which was newly diagnosed in 57 (31%) patients. Retrospective pre‐stroke risk stratification according to CHADS2 score indicated low/intermediate risk in 34 patients (18%) and high risk (CHADS2 ≥ 2) in 153 patients (82%). Application of CHA2DS2‐VASc score reduced number of patients at low/intermediate risk (CHA2DS2‐VASc score 0–1) to five patients (2.7%). In patients with a CHADS2 score ≥ 2 and known AF (n = 106) before stroke, 38 (36%) were on treatment with vitamin K antagonists on admission whilst only in 16 patients (15%) treatment was in therapeutic range.

Conclusions

Our study strongly supports the hypothesis that underuse of oral anticoagulants in high‐risk patients importantly contributes to AF‐associated stroke. CHA2DS2‐VASc score appears to be a more valuable risk stratification tool than CHADS2 score. Preventive measures should focus on optimizing pre‐stroke detection of AF and better implementation of present AF‐guidelines with respect to anticoagulation therapy.
Managing Migration, Managing Motherhood: The Moral Economy of Gendered Migration
Authors: Contreras Ricardo , Griffith David
Published: July 2012

For the past two decades, women have been migrating from Mexico to the United States on temporary work visas to pick meat from blue crabs in small coastal factories. Within a theoretical framework that argues for the relevance of a moral economic perspective to gendered migration, we examine the how participating in this migration influences migrants' families, including their abilities to produce higher‐quality lives. Specifically, we focus on the various factors that feed into the decision to migrate, the immediate consequences of those decisions for the relations among migrants, children, spouses and other family and community members, and the longer‐term consequences in terms of gender relations, the restructuring of parent–child relationships and the material benefits of work abroad. We find that women negotiate a variety of contradictions and paradoxes to participate in the programme, many of which directly influence their quest to reaffirm their abilities, as mothers, to produce quality human beings. These findings reflect more general global appeals for valuing human life by measures other than those of conventional political economy.
Tacrolimus 0.1% ointment in nail psoriasis: a randomized controlled open‐label study
Authors: De Simone C. , Maiorino A. , Tassone F. , D’Agostino M. , Caldarola G.
Published: July 2012

Background  Despite recent advances in the treatment of psoriasis, the therapeutic options for nail psoriasis are very limited, particularly when this is the only manifestation of the disease.

Objective  We performed a randomized controlled open‐label study to assess the efficacy and safety of a topical treatment with tacrolimus 0.1% ointment in nail psoriasis.

Methods  In each patient, tacrolimus 0.1% ointment was prescribed for application only on the affected nails of a randomly selected hand for 12 weeks, whereas nails of the other hand did not receive any treatment. Severity of nail psoriasis was evaluated using the Nail Psoriasis Severity Index (NAPSI) score.

Results  We enrolled 21 consecutive psoriatic patients. At week 12, a statistically significant (P < 0.001) improvement was obtained in the treated hands with respect to the hands used as control (NAPSI score absolute change 13.0 and 3.0 respectively). Each of the enrolled patients concluded the period of treatment, but one patient was withdrawn from tacrolimus application after 9 weeks because of the appearance of acute paronychia.

Discussion  Our study showed that tacrolimus 0.1% ointment may be an efficacious and safe therapeutic opportunity in the treatment of nail psoriasis. Our data should be confirmed by a double‐blind study with a larger sample of patients.
Do hot spots of breeding birds serve as surrogate hot spots of wintering birds? An example from centralSpain
Authors: Marfil‐Daza C. , Pizarro M. , Moreno‐Rueda G.
Published: July 2012

The lack of information on the protection status of birds in the winter period is a serious concern, as the survival of many populations depends on this period. Here, we consider the seasonal changes in distribution patterns of bird species in centralSpain to assess the value of protected areas (PA) for simultaneously conserving breeding and wintering avifauna. We used a stepwise algorithm of complementarity to select the minimum set ofUniversalTransverseMercator 10 × 10‐km squares containing all species at each period and then contrasted selected areas in order to test the degree to which breeding and wintering birds overlap. UsingGapanalysis, we identified areas that are still unprotected. Our results show both a weak correlation and a scant overlap between areas that are important for bird conservation during breeding and wintering periods. Thus, we conclude that valuable areas for bird diversity differ between seasons, implying that breeding hot spots are not good surrogates for overwintering hot spots. This paper addresses the need of identifying not only important areas for breeding birds, but also wintering birds, revealing potential gaps in currentPAnetworks. Future conservation policies should take these results into account in order to optimize bird conservation, especially considering that the appropriate protection of the bird species overwintering inSpain will, overall, benefitEuropean breeding populations.
Micro‐computed tomography reveals a diversity of Peramuran mammals from the Purbeck Group (Berriasian) of England
Authors: DAVIS BRIAN M.
Published: July 2012

Abstract:  The known sample of the important pretribosphenic mammal Peramus tenuirostris, housed in the Natural History Museum (London, UK), was imaged using micro‐computed tomography (CT). Substantial morphological diversity was discovered, prompting establishment (and resurrection) of additional taxa from within the existing hypodigm of Peramus tenuirostris: Peramus dubius comb. nov., Kouriogenys minor gen. nov. and Peramuroides tenuiscus gen. et sp. nov. The Peramura are revised; this group is restricted to taxa with clear evidence of a fully functional upper molar embrasure for the dominant lower molar talonid cusp (hypoconid), either through development of wear facet 4 or through differentiation of a distinct hypoconulid. The Peramura are the most likely sister taxon to the Tribosphenida (including living marsupials and placentals) and represent a distinct molar morphotype, transitional between primitive lineages characterized by dominant orthal shear (e.g. dryolestoids) and those with modern, multi‐functional tribospheny. A very large masseteric foramen is identified in peramurans, but this feature appears to be autapomorphic and of uncertain function.
Polio in Nigeria
Authors: Renne Elisha P.
Published: July 2012

Poliomyelitis, or polio as it is commonly known, is a disease caused by an enterovirus found throughout the world. Although it is often associated with paralysis of one or more limbs, it is more common for children to experience asymptomatic cases of the disease, which convey life‐long immunity. While lameness associated with polio has long been known in Nigeria, during the colonial period immunization efforts focused mainly on expatriates. Later, with the implementation of the Expanded Programme on Immunisation during the 1980s, polio vaccination was included as part of primary health care. However, it was only after the 1988 World Health Assembly vote to eradicate polio worldwide that intensive efforts to vaccinate all children under five for polio began. Initial efforts, which focused only on polio vaccination, may be characterized as an “override approach.” In 2006, Nigeria had the greatest number of confirmed cases of polio worldwide. However, with the implementation of a more “collaborative approach,” incorporating other vaccines and health incentives such as bed nets, the number of polio cases declined. By the end of 2010, case numbers had declined dramatically and these numbers remain low, reflecting government, NGO, and community efforts to work together to end polio transmission in Nigeria.
Anzac Day at Home and Abroad: Towards a History of Australia’s National Day
Authors: Scates Bruce , Frances Rae , Reeves Keir , Bongiorno Frank , Crotty Martin , Knapman Gareth , Seal Graham , Becker Annette , Reeves Andrew , Soutphommasane Tim , Blackburn Kevin , Clarke Stephen J , Stanley Peter , Hoskins Andrew , Winter Jay , Bridge Carl , James Laura , Wheatley Rebecca , Riches Leah , McCosker Alexandra , Sleight Simon
Published: July 2012

Over the last hundred years, Anzac Day (25 April), the anniversary of the initial landing of Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) at Gallipoli in 1915, has captured the Australian and New Zealand national imaginations. The day remembers the first significant engagement involving Australian and New Zealand soldiers in the First World War. This article is an early report of a major project that will chart Anzac Day’s origins, development and contested meanings. It is both an historical study, tracing changes in commemoration and remembrance over time, and an investigation of the ways in which Australians and New Zealanders mark Anzac Day in the present day. It will interrogate the shaping of historical sensibility by exploring the complex connections between personal and collective remembrance. One of the challenges to understanding Anzac Day is dealing with the multiplicity of meanings of such a large‐scale, diverse and now venerable (in modern Australian terms) observation. It will also examine the neglected subject of Anzac Day’s observance outside the Australia and New Zealand – in Europe, Asia, North Africa and the Pacific – where it has long played a role in expressing the identities of Antipodean expatriate communities.
Electrochemical treatment of Methyl Orange dye wastewater by rotating disc electrode: optimisation using response surface methodology
Authors: Palani Ramasamy , Balasubramanian Natesan
Published: July 2012

In the present investigation, a novel rotating disc electrochemical reactor has been developed to treat Methyl Orange dye effluent. Stainless steel and ruthenium oxide‐coated titanium electrodes were used as cathode and anode, respectively. A statistical tool of the Box–Behnken method has been used to design the experimental run and optimisation. The combined effect of the operating parameter on the efficiency of the process has been critically examined. A quadratic model for reduction of chemical oxygen demand has been developed. A maximum of 96% chemical oxygen demand removal was observed under optimum conditions. The degradation mechanism was studied by ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer, Fourier Transform–infrared and high‐performance liquid chromatography. From the present investigation, it has been observed that dyehouse effluent can be effectively treated using the novel electrochemical reactor.
Headache Disorders in Children and Adolescents: Their Association With Psychological, Behavioral, and Socio‐Environmental Factors
Authors: Kröner‐Herwig Birgit , Gassmann Jennifer
Published: July 2012

Objective.— This cross‐sectional study on a randomly drawn population sample of children and adolescents (n = 3399; aged 9 to 15) aimed at the assessment of patterns of associations between psychosocial variables and primary headache disorders like migraine (MIG) or tension‐type headache. A headache‐free group served as a control.

Methods.— Data on headache and psychological trait variables (eg, internalizing symptoms), behavioral factors (eg, physical activities), and socio‐environmental factors (eg, life events) were gathered by questionnaire. Logistic regression analyses were conducted with headache types (MIG, tension‐type, and non‐classifiable headache) as dependent variables.

Results.— The pattern of correlations was largely congruent between the headache disorders. Associations were closest regarding maladaptive psychological traits (in particular internalizing symptoms with an odds ratio > 4 regarding MIG) compared with socio‐environmental factors and particularly the behavioral factors. Unfavorable psychological traits and socio‐environmental strains demonstrated distinctly stronger associations with MIG than tension‐type headache and explained more variance in the occurrence of pediatric headache disorders than parental headache. Sex‐specific analyses showed similarities as well as differences regarding the correlations, and in general, the associations were stronger in girls than boys.

Conclusions.— A common path model as posited by several researchers in the field may explain the parallelism in biopsychosocial vulnerability regarding the different headache disorders.
Vitamin B‐12 and Folate Status in Relation to Decline in Scores on the Mini‐Mental State Examination in the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Morris Martha Savaria , Selhub Jacob , Jacques Paul F.
Published: July 2012

Objectives

To investigate the cognitive significance of low to low‐normal plasma vitamin B‐12 concentrations and to shed light on the role that folate status plays in the association between vitamin B‐12 status and cognitive decline.

Design

Associations between plasma vitamin B‐12 and folate and 8‐year cognitive decline were evaluated, and the effects of interactions between vitamin B‐12 status and folate status and supplemental folate use on cognitive decline were assessed.

Setting

The Framingham Heart Study — a prospective epidemiological study.

Participants

Five hundred forty‐nine community‐dwelling individuals aged 74.8 ± 4.6.

Measurements

Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE), plasma folate, vitamin B‐12, methylmalonic acid, homocysteine, demographic factors, and body mass index.

Results

MMSE scores declined by 0.24 points per year over the 8‐year follow‐up period. Decline was significantly faster in cohort members in the bottom two plasma vitamin B‐12 quintile categories, and no apparent cognitive advantage was associated with plasma vitamin B‐12 from 187 to 256.8 pmol/L over less than 186 pmol/L. In cohort members with plasma vitamin B‐12 less than 258 pmol/L, having a plasma folate concentration greater than 20.2 nmol/L was associated with an approximate 1‐point per year decline, as was use of supplemental folate.

Conclusion

Plasma vitamin B‐12 levels from 187 to 256.8 pmol/L predict cognitive decline. Furthermore, having plasma vitamin B‐12 levels in this range or below in conjunction with high plasma folate or supplemental folate use predicts especially rapid cognitive decline.
Prevalence, Causes, and Treatment of Neuropathic Pain in Dutch Nursing Home Residents: A Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: van Kollenburg Esther G. P. , Lavrijsen Jan C. M. , Verhagen Stans C. , Zuidema Sytse U. , Schalkwijk Annelies , Vissers Kris C. P.
Published: July 2012

Objectives

To identify the prevalence and causes of neuropathic pain in Dutch nursing home residents; to establish the prevalence of painful and nonpainful diabetic polyneuropathy in a subsample of individuals with diabetes mellitus and central poststroke pain (CPSP) in a subsample of individuals who had a stroke; and to study the prescription of antineuropathic drugs.

Design

A descriptive, retrospective, cross‐sectional study conducted by analyzing medical records.

Setting

Data were collected in 12 Dutch nursing homes.

Participants

The data were derived from the medical records of 497 residents of chronic long‐term stay and rehabilitation nursing home units.

Measurements

Four groups were defined: actual (at some time in the previous year) neuropathic pain (ANP), possible neuropathic pain (PNP), neuropathic pain in the past (NPP), and no signs of neuropathic pain (NoNP).

Results

The prevalence of ANP was 10.9% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 8.4–13.8%) and of PNP was 5.6% (95% CI = 3.9–7.9%). The most common causes were CPSP and phantom limb pain. In the subgroup with diabetes mellitus, 6.3% had nonpainful diabetic polyneuropathy, 0.7% had painful diabetic polyneuropathy, and 0.7% had possible painful diabetic polyneuropathy. In the poststroke subsample, 4.7% were identified as having CPSP, and 5.2% were identified as possibly having CPSP. Within the ANP group, 68.5% of the residents received antineuropathic drugs on the day the medical records were examined; 48.1% used anticonvulsants.

Conclusion

Dutch nursing home residents frequently experience neuropathic pain; therefore, neuropathic pain should receive more attention in frail elderly adults.
Nonsuicidal Self‐Injury in a Community Sample of Adolescents: Subgroups, Stability, and Associations With Psychological Difficulties
Authors: Bjärehed Jonas , Wångby‐Lundh, Margit , Lundh Lars‐Gunnar
Published: July 2012

Patterns of nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI) and their association with other psychological difficulties were studied in a community sample of young Swedish adolescents, by a two‐wave longitudinal design with a 1‐year interval. Hierarchical cluster analysis at T1 identified eight NSSI subgroups in each gender, of which five were clearly replicated at T2. Among these were a subgroup with generalized high‐frequency NSSI, which was associated with both internalizing and externalizing problems, and a subgroup of girls who engaged primarily in cutting and showed mainly internalizing problems. In general, NSSI clusters among girls were more stable over time and associated with more psychological problems. The results indicate that different patterns of NSSI have different developmental and clinical implications.
Associations of Marital Conflict With Emotional and Physiological Stress: Evidence for Different Patterns of Dysregulation
Authors: Lucas‐Thompson Rachel G.
Published: July 2012

The goal of this study was to explore theoretically suggested but untested links between interparental conflict and stress physiology in late adolescence. A multi‐method study was conducted involving families (n = 42) who previously participated in the University California, Irvine site of the NICHD Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development; adolescents were 17½ years of age on average. Parent report and observer ratings of conflict, adolescent participation in a robust social‐evaluative stressor, and assessment of cortisol, cardiovascular, and emotional functioning were included. Marital conflict was associated with dampened physiological stress responses in adolescence but sensitized emotional responses, suggesting that conflict may be associated with problems integrating and coordinating emotional and physiological responses to stress.
Preparation of Disappearing Inks and Studying the Fading Time on Different Paper Surfaces
Authors: El‐Molla Mohamed Mabrouk , Shama Sayed Ahamed , El‐Sayed Saeed Saeed
Published: July 2012

Abstract:  Disappearing inks have been used in different fields, but it may be abused in forgery and counterfeiting. This research was conducted on the preparation of disappearing inks using different concentrations of thymolphthalein, phenolphthalein, and their mixture. The prepared inks were applied to different types of handwriting papers. It was found that the handwriting stability increased by increasing thymolphthalein, phenolphthalein, or alkali concentration, but in the case of using 4 mL of 1 normal (N) NaOH, the handwriting stability of phenolphthalein and its mixture inks decreased. Deciphering of the faded handwriting was evaluated by different methods; using optical deciphering, the faded handwriting did not respond to the different light sources. All the faded handwriting was visible when treated with alkaline solution. There was no change in the faded handwriting when heated to 100°C; phenolphthalein and mixture inks containing 0.5 mL of 1 N NaOH became red when only Azhar and Xerox papers were heated to 150°C.
Alveolar osteotomy associated with resorbable non‐ceramic hydroxylapatite or intra‐oral autogenous bone for height augmentation in posterior mandibular sites: a split‐mouth prospective study
Authors: Kawakami Paulo Y. , Dottore Alexandre M. , Bechara Karen , Feres Magda , Shibli Jamil A.
Published: July 2012

Background

The presence of the inferior alveolar nerve within the body of the mandible could jeopardize the placement of dental implants. Previous studies have shown that the interpositional osteotomy for posterior mandible ridge augmentation could be a predictable procedure. Nevertheless, there are few prospective, controlled, and randomized studies that evaluated this technique using different bone graft materials.

Purpose

This prospective, controlled split‐mouth study evaluated, using tomographic and Resonance Frequency Analyses (RFA), implants placed in the augmented mandibular area.

Material and methods

Alveolar augmentation osteotomies were performed bilaterally in 12 partially edentulous mandibular patients in a split‐mouth design. The alveolar segmental osteotomies were assigned in two groups: test group, interpositional non‐ceramic hydroxylapatite bone graft, and control group, interpositional intra‐oral autogenous bone graft. After 6 months healing, implants were placed. The tomographic measurements of bone gain were recorded at baseline and 6 months after surgery, when the implants were placed. At 12 months after osteotomy, RFA were performed for each implant.

Results

The mean of bone gain 6.5 ± 2.4 mm and 7.0 ± 1.76 mm to control and test group, respectively (P > 0.05). RFA values between groups were similar at baseline and 12 months follow‐up (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Alveolar osteotomies associated with sandwich interpositional bone graft, independently of bone graft, resulted in bone formation over a period of 12 months.
HCRP1 expression status is a significant prognostic marker in oral and oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Perisanidis C , Savarese‐Brenner B , Würger T , Wrba F , Huynh A , Schopper C , Kornek G , Selzer E , Ewers R , Psyrri A , Krainer M , Filipits M
Published: July 2012

Objective

The hepatocellular carcinoma‐related protein 1 (HCRP1) is a key factor in the degradation of the epidermal growth factor receptor. In this study, we assessed the prognostic significance of HCRP1 expression in patients with oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OOSCC).

Methods

HCRP1 expression was determined by immunohistochemistry on tissue biopsy sections of 111 patients with locally advanced OOSCC undergoing neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery. The Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression models were used for survival analyses.

Results

Low HCRP1 expression was associated with poor recurrence‐free survival (P = 0.046) and overall survival (P = 0.03). Multivariate analysis revealed that low HCRP1 expression remained an independent risk factor for relapse (HR 2.98, 95% CI 1.19–7.49, P = 0.02) and death (HR 3.04, 95% CI 1.19–7.79, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Low HCRP1 expression was found to be of adverse prognostic significance in patients with OOSCC who received preoperative chemoradiotherapy.
Characterization of VanYn, a novel D,D‐peptidase/D,D‐carboxypeptidase involved in glycopeptide antibiotic resistance in Nonomuraea sp. ATCC 39727
Authors: Binda Elisa , Marcone Giorgia L. , Pollegioni Loredano , Marinelli Flavia
Published: July 2012

VanYn is a novel protein involved in the mechanism of self‐resistance in Nonomuraea sp. ATCC 39727, which produces the glycopeptide antibiotic A40926, the precursor of the second‐generation dalbavancin, which is in phase III of clinical development. VanYn (196 residues) is encoded by the dbv7 gene within the dbv biosynthetic cluster devoted to A40926 production. C‐terminal His6‐tagged VanYn was successfully expressed as a soluble and active protein in Escherichia coli. The analysis of the sequence suggests the presence of a hydrophobic transmembrane portion and two conserved sequences (SxHxxGxAxD and ExxH) in the extracytoplasmic domain that are potentially involved in coordination of Zn2+ and catalytic activity. The presence of these conserved sequences indicates a similar mechanism of action and substrate binding in VanYn as in VanY, VanX and VanXY Zn2+‐dependent d,d‐carboxypeptidases and d‐Ala‐d‐Ala dipeptidases acting on peptidoglycan maturation and involved in glycopeptide resistance in pathogens. On substrates mimicking peptidoglycan precursors, VanYn shows d,d‐carboxypeptidase and d,d‐dipeptidase activity, but lacks d,d‐carboxyesterase ability on d‐Ala‐d‐Lac‐terminating peptides. VanYn belongs to the metallo‐d,d‐carboxypeptidase family, but it is inhibited by β‐lactams. Its characterization provides new insights into the evolution and transfer of resistance determinants from environmental glycopeptide‐producing actinomycetes (such as Nonomuraea sp.) to glycopeptide‐resistant pathogens (enterococci and staphylococci). It may also contribute to an early warning system for emerging resistance mechanisms following the introduction into clinics of a second‐generation glycopeptide such as dalbavancin.

Database
 The nucleotide sequence of vanYn is available in the GenBank data base under accession number CAD91202
Intended or Unintended Consequences? The Likely Implications of Raising the Bar for Sexual Dysfunction Diagnosis in the Proposed DSM-V Revisions: 1. For Women with Incomplete Loss of Desire or Sexual Receptivity
Authors: Clayton Anita H. , DeRogatis Leonard R. , Rosen Raymond C. , Pyke Robert
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Combining female sexual desire and arousal disorders is proposed for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Brotto et al. challenged our findings that the proposed criteria could potentially exclude from diagnosis or treatment a large number of women with distressing loss of function or in sexual desire, because (i) our samples were insufficiently severe; (ii) we sought to retain the current diagnostic criteria, whereas they contend that “the bar should be raised”; and (iii) the current sexual function diagnostic criteria are unreliable.

Aim

Here we provide additional data to support our view suggesting that the proposed criteria would potentially exclude large numbers of women from diagnosis or treatment if they have moderate-to-marked (rather than severe) hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), or HSDD with incomplete loss of receptivity.

Methods

In nontreatment validation studies of 481 women in North America and Europe, 231 women diagnosed with HSDD only were compared to women with no female sexual desire.

Main Outcome Measures

Clinicians experienced in sexual medicine determined the severity of HSDD using the standard Clinical Global Impression of Severity. Rating scale data were also used, including the clinician-rated Sexual Desire and Interest Inventory-Female and the self-rated Female Sexual Function Index, Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire, Female Sexual Distress Scale, and an e-Diary about desire during sexual events.

Results

The severity of the HSDD was rated by clinicians as generally moderate-to-marked, not mild. The women with HSDD scored as manifestly sexually dysfunctional and significantly sexually distressed, and reported markedly fewer satisfying sexual events compared to age-matched, non-dysfunctional controls, even for those with moderate or milder degrees of severity, providing compelling evidence that our sample of women with HSDD had clinically disordered sexual function. Yet the proposed criteria would apparently allow diagnosis (and therefore treatment) of only severe desire dysfunction.

Conclusion

It would be counterproductive to combine the two disorders, to make individual criteria for the disorders more stringent or to require more such criteria for a diagnosis because such disorders tend to be distinct in presentation, in treatability with currently available therapies, and in logical approaches to be tested to improve therapy.
Genetic associations with C‐reactive protein level and white blood cell count in the KARE study
Authors: Kong M. , Lee C.
Published: July 2012

C‐reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cell (WBC) have been utilized as critical markers contributing to acute and chronic inflammation. Genome‐wide associations were examined to identify nucleotide sequence variants associated with the two markers using 8842 individuals in the Korean Association REsource (KARE) study. A total of six and three nucleotide variants turned out to be associated with CRP and WBC (P < 1.42 × 10−7), and they were mutually exclusive. The only common variant associated with CRP was rs2393791 within hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 alpha (HNF1A) gene [minor allele frequency (MAF) = 0.478]. The only common variant associated with WBC [MAF = 0.468] was rs8078723, an intergenic single nucleotide polymorphism located between proteasome 26S subunits non‐ATPase 3 (PSMD3) and colony‐stimulating factor 3 (CSF3) in chromosome 17. The 2 variants were also associated with other inflammation‐related phenotypes (P < 0.05), and each phenotype was associated with the variant rs2393791 or with the variant rs8078723. We suggested that HNF1A gene was associated with CRP, and the region including PSMD3 and CSF3 genes was associated with WBC. The two inflammatory markers appeared to have distinct genetic components. Not only the functions of these two markers but also the functions of the corresponding genetic components might be largely complementary in determining inflammation process.
Fabrication and Joining of Ceramic Compact Heat Exchangers for Process Integration
Authors: Lewinsohn Charles A. , Wilson Merrill A. , Fellows Joseph R. , Anderson Hyrum S.
Published: July 2012

Many energy conversion systems use thermal processes to convert chemical energy to mechanical or electrical energy. There are also many industrial processes performed at high temperature that produce excess heat. In both of these situations, heat exchangers can be used to recover thermal energy and make the processes more energy efficient. The more heat that can be recovered, the more efficient the process will be, so there is a strong demand for heat exchangers that operate at as high a temperature as possible. Ceramic heat exchangers permit operation at higher temperatures than with other materials. Additionally, compact heat exchangers are highly efficient and cost‐effective. This paper will describe principles of design, methods of fabrication, and joining methods for ceramic compact heat exchangers for integration of such heat exchangers into practical applications.
Interactions Between Temperature and Sugars in the Regulation of Leaf Senescence in the Perennial Herb Arabis alpina L.F
Authors: Wingler Astrid , Stangberg Emma Josefine , Saxena Triambak , Mistry Rupal
Published: July 2012

Annual plants usually flower and set seed once before senescence results in the death of the whole plant (monocarpic senescence). Leaf senescence also occurs in polycarpic perennials; even in “evergreen” species individual leaves senesce. In the annual model Arabidopsis thaliana sugars accumulate in the senescent leaves and senescence is accelerated by high sugar availability. Similar to A. thaliana, sugar contents increased with leaf age in the perennial Arabis alpina grown under warm conditions (22 °C day/18 night). At 5 °C, sugar contents in non‐senescent leaves were higher than at a warm temperature, but dependent on the accession, either sugars did not accumulate or their contents decreased in old leaves. In A. alpina plants grown in their natural habitat in the Alps, sugar contents declined with leaf age. Growth at a cold temperature slightly delayed senescence in A. alpina. In both warm and cold conditions, an external glucose supply accelerated senescence, but natural variation was found in this response. In conclusion, sugar accumulation under warm conditions could accelerate leaf senescence in A. alpina plants, but genotype‐specific responses and interactions with growth temperature are likely to influence senescence under natural conditions.
A Conceptual Stress‐Coping Model of Factors Influencing Marketplace Engagement of Visually Impaired Consumers
Authors: BALABANIS GEORGE , MITCHELL VINCENT WAYNE , BRUCE IAN , RIEFLER PETRA
Published: July 2012

Visually impaired consumers often suffer one of the worst marketplace stresses when processing product information. Despite there being around 314 million blind or visually impaired people worldwide, today's marketplace does not yet adequately address these stresses. This study develops and tests a theoretical model of how visually impaired consumers cope in marketplace engagement and discusses how companies and policymakers can help to increase marketplace engagement.
Sinonasal aspergillosis in dogs: a review
Authors: Sharman M. J. , Mansfield C. S.
Published: July 2012

Sinonasal aspergillosis is an uncommon, yet debilitating and often frustrating condition to treat in dogs despite years of research evaluating pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment. The disease is most commonly caused by non‐invasive fungal infection, thought to be secondary to altered innate and/or adaptive immune responses. Attempts to confirm this have however failed. A variety of conflicting opinions regarding the diagnosis and treatment of sinonasal aspergillosis exist. Often the use of a particular treatment protocol is based upon personal or regional preference. Evaluation of the veterinary literature demonstrates that the evidence base in support of individual treatment recommendations is weak. A number of recent publications have helped to expand the current knowledge base and therefore our understanding of important practicalities for both diagnostic options and treatment protocols. The following review examines the current evidence for the pathogenesis of sinonasal aspergillosis in dogs, as well as the various diagnostic options. The available evidence for frequently utilised ‐therapeutic options and their likely outcomes is also explored.