bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fitness costs and benefits of shelter building and leaf trenching behaviour in a pyralid caterpillar
Authors: ABARCA MARIANA , BOEGE KARINA
Published: August 2011

1. Shelter building and petiole trenching in the Lepidoptera is a behaviour that mediates ecological pressures including those exerted by both food plants and natural enemies.

2. Fitness costs and benefits of trenching and shelter‐building behaviour related to predation and larval performance were investigated in a pyralid species that inhabits and feeds on leaf shelters.

3. Assays comparing the performance of caterpillars feeding on trenched versus non‐trenched foliage and fresh versus dry leaves were conducted. Whereas pupal weight was positively affected by petiole trenching, larval development was delayed when caterpillars fed on dry leaves.

4. A field experiment comparing predation on caterpillars inside and outside shelters demonstrated that predation was significantly higher for exposed caterpillars.

5. No physiological costs associated with shelter building were found given that caterpillars performed equally regardless of the number of shelters they built.

6. The effect sizes of top‐down and bottom‐up forces on pupal weight, development time, and predation risk indicated that the major effect of shelters is through the reduction of predation risk. The integration of experiments and natural history observations showed that fitness benefits provided by shelters change across ontogeny.
Characterization of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease unrelated to the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Yilmaz Yusuf , Senates Ebubekir , Ayyildiz Talat , Colak Yasar , Tuncer Ilyas , Ovunc Ayse Oya Kurdas , Dolar Enver , Kalayci Cem
Published: August 2011

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (4): 411–418

Background  Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome (MS). However, not all patients with the MS will develop NAFLD and not all patients with NAFLD have the MS. We sought to investigate the differences between patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD with and without the MS.

Methods  A total of 357 consecutive patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD were analysed. Of them, 216 patients had nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and 96 a fibrosis score ≥ 2. The MS was defined as ≥ 3 of the ATP III criteria.

Results  A total of 214 patients with NAFLD met the criteria for the MS, while the remaining 143 did not. In NAFLD patients with the MS, homeostasis model of insulin resistance (P = 0·03; OR, 1·06; 95% CI, 1·023–1·25 per unit increase) and diabetes (P = 0·01; OR, 1·2; 95% CI, 1·1–2·4) were independent predictors of NASH. In NAFLD patients without the MS, the only variable independently associated with NASH was haemoglobin (P = 0·007; OR, 1·9; 95% CI, 1·4–3·6 per 50 g/L increase). Alanine aminotransferase (P = 0·03; OR, 1·04; 95% CI, 1·006–1·11 per 10 U/L increase) was an independent predictor of fibrosis ≥ 2 in NAFLD patients with the MS, while haemoglobin (P = 0·02; OR, 1·4; 95% CI, 1·2–1·9 per 50 g/L increase) was the only variable significantly associated with fibrosis ≥ 2 in NAFLD patients without the MS.

Conclusions  Increased haemoglobin in NAFLD subjects without MS should be considered in the selection of cases for histological assessment.
Root canal treatment of a periradicular lesion caused by unintentional root damage after orthodontic miniscrew placement: a case report
Authors: Er K. , Bayram M. , Taşdemir T.
Published: August 2011

Er K, Bayram M, Taşdemir T. Root canal treatment of a periradicular lesion caused by unintentional root damage after orthodontic miniscrew placement: a case report. International Endodontic Journal44, 1170–1175, 2011.

Aim  To present the successful endodontic management of a maxillary lateral incisor tooth with a periradicular lesion caused by unintentional root damage after orthodontic miniscrew placement.

Summary  A 22‐year‐old female was diagnosed with a skeletal Class II, Division 2 malocclusion with Class II molar and canine relationships on both sides. The treatment plan included distalization of the maxillary first molars bilaterally followed by full fixed appliance therapy. For the maxillary molar distalization, an appliance in conjunction with a miniscrew anchorage system was designed. Two months later, the patient came to the clinic with complaints of pain in the maxillary right lateral incisor region. On intraoral examination, intraoral sinus tracts were detected in the maxillary right buccal sulcus and palate. A large radiolucent lesion with a well‐defined margin around the root of the maxillary right lateral incisor was seen. Root canal treatment was performed on the maxillary right lateral incisor tooth. The root canal was filled with gutta‐percha and AH Plus sealer, using a lateral compaction technique. The final restoration of the tooth was completed using composite, and the tooth was reviewed after 10 months. The tooth was asymptomatic and radiographically showed repair of the lesion. Healing was achieved without any need for further endodontic or surgical intervention.

Key learning points 

 This case illustrates the need to take care with miniscrews when performing orthodontic treatment, especially when the miniscrews are in close proximity to root apices.

 The periradicular lesion as a result of miniscrew damage was successfully treated with root canal treatment.
Initial fibroblast attachment to Erbium:YAG laser‐irradiated dentine
Authors: Bolortuya G. , Ebihara A. , Ichinose S. , Watanabe S. , Anjo T. , Kokuzawa C. , Saegusa H. , Kawashima N. , Suda H.
Published: August 2011

Bolortuya G, Ebihara A, Ichinose S, Watanabe S, Anjo T, Kokuzawa C, Saegusa H, Kawashima N, Suda H.Initial fibroblast attachment to Erbium:YAG laser‐irradiated dentine.International Endodontic Journal,44, 1134–1144, 2011.

Aims To evaluate the effects of Erbium (Er):YAG laser irradiation on the morphology of resected dentine surfaces, and to investigate fibroblast attachment to laser‐irradiated dentine surfaces.

Methodology Dentine blocks obtained from single‐rooted human teeth were divided into the following groups after sterilization in an autoclave: (i) Laser group treated with Er:YAG laser irradiation (30 mJ per pulse, 10 pps, 60 s); (ii) L‐MTAD group treated with laser irradiation as in (i) plus a mixture of doxycycline, tetracycline isomer and citric acid; (iii) RC‐Prep group treated with EDTA gel or cream (RC‐Prep) and (iv) Control group left untreated. After each treatment, the dentine blocks were incubated with NIH/3T3 fibroblasts cultured to subconfluency in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle’s medium supplemented with 10% foetal bovine serum and antibiotics. The number of attached cells amongst the groups was analysed statistically at the 5% significance level. The dentine surface morphologies and cell attachments were evaluated by counting assays, histological observations and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Results The number of attached cells was significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the Laser group than in the RC‐Prep and Control groups at 16 h. Dendritic cell extension of the fibroblasts was only observed in the Laser group at 8 h by SEM. In the histological analyses, significantly more attached cells were found on the dentine surfaces treated with laser irradiation.

Conclusions Er:YAG laser irradiation induced morphological alterations in dentine surfaces, which may improve the attachment of fibroblasts to dentine.
Classifying orofacial pains: a new proposal of taxonomy based on ontology
Authors: NIXDORF D. R. , DRANGSHOLT M. T. , ETTLIN D. A. , GAUL C. , De LEEUW R. , SVENSSON P. , ZAKRZEWSKA J. M. , DE LAAT A. , CEUSTERS W.
Published: August 2011

Summary  We propose a new taxonomy model based on ontological principles for disorders that manifest themselves through the symptom of persistent orofacial pain and are commonly seen in clinical practice and difficult to manage. Consensus meeting of eight experts from various geographic areas representing different perspectives (orofacial pain, headache, oral medicine and ontology) as an initial step towards improving the taxonomy. Ontological principles were introduced, reviewed and applied during the consensus building process. Diagnostic criteria for persistent dento‐alveolar pain disorder (PDAP) were formulated as an example to be used to model the taxonomical structure of all orofacial pain conditions. These criteria have the advantage of being (i) anatomically defined, (ii) in accordance with other classification systems for the provision of clinical care, (iii) descriptive and succinct, (iv) easy to adapt for applications in varying settings, (v) scalable and (vi) transferable for the description of pain disorders in other orofacial regions of interest. Limitations are that the criteria introduce new terminology, do not have widespread acceptance and have yet to be tested. These results were presented to the greater conference membership and were unanimously accepted. Consensus for the diagnostic criteria of PDAP was established within this working group. This is an initial first step towards developing a coherent taxonomy for orofacial pain disorders, which is needed to improve clinical research and care.
Inactivation of a Plasmodium apicoplast protein attenuates formation of liver merozoites
Authors: Haussig Joana M. , Matuschewski Kai , Kooij Taco W. A.
Published: August 2011

Malaria parasites undergo a population expansion inside the host liver before disease onset. Developmental arrest inside host hepatocytes elicits protective immune responses. Therefore, elucidation of the molecular mechanisms leading to mature hepatic merozoites, which initiate the pathogenic blood phase, also informs anti‐malaria vaccine strategies. Using targeted gene deletion in the rodent model malaria parasite Plasmodium berghei, we show that a Plasmodium‐specific Apicoplast protein plays an important role for Liver Merozoite formation (PALM). While the resulting knockout mutants develop normally for most of the life cycle, merozoite release into the blood stream and the ability to establish an infection are severely impaired. Presence of a signature blood‐stage antigen, merozoite surface protein 1 and normal apicoplast morphology indicate that the inability to finalize merozoite segregation is a direct consequence of loss of PALM function. Experimental immunization of mice with as few as two doses of palm‐ sporozoites can elicit sterile protection up to 110 days after final immunization. Our data establish that a tailor‐made arrest in the final steps of hepatic merozoite formation can induce strong protective immune responses and that malaria parasites employ a distinct apicoplast protein for efficient formation of pre‐erythrocytic merozoites.
The neurotrophin receptor p75NTR is induced on mature myofibres in inflammatory myopathies and promotes myotube survival to inflammatory stress
Authors: Colombo E. , Romaggi S. , Blasevich F. , Mora M. , Falcone C. , Lochmüller H. , Morandi L. , Farina C.
Published: August 2011

E. Colombo, S. Romaggi, F. Blasevich, M. Mora, C. Falcone, H. Lochmüller, L. Morandi and C. Farina (2012) Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology38, 367–378

The neurotrophin receptor p75NTR is induced on mature myofibres in inflammatory myopathies and promotes myotube survival to inflammatory stress

Aims: Recent studies propose the neurotrophin receptor p75NTR as a marker for muscle satellite cells and a key regulator of regenerative processes after injury. Here, we investigated the contribution of cellular compartments other than satellite cells and regenerating myofibres to p75NTR signal in diseased skeletal muscle. Methods: We checked regulation of p75NTR expression in muscle biopsies from patients with inflammatory myopathies (polymyositis, dermatomyositis and inclusion body myositis), or Becker muscular dystrophy, and in nonmyopathic tissues. Quantitative PCR, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence or electron microscopy were used. RNA interference approaches were applied to myotubes to explore p75NTR function. Results: We found p75NTR transcript and protein upregulation in all inflammatory myopathies but not in dystrophic muscle, suggesting a role for inflammatory mediators in induction of p75NTR expression. In inflamed muscle p75NTR was localized on distinct cell types, including immune cells and mature myofibres. In vitro assays on human myotubes confirmed that inflammatory factors such as IL‐1 could induce p75NTR. Finally, RNA interference experiments in differentiated cells showed that, in the absence of p75NTR, myotubes were more susceptible to apoptosis when exposed to inflammatory stimuli. Conclusions: Our observations that p75NTR is upregulated on skeletal myofibres in inflammatory myopathies in vivo and promotes resistance to inflammatory mediators in vitro suggest that neurotrophin signalling through p75NTR may mediate a tissue‐protective response to inflammation in skeletal myofibres.
Future supercontinent assembled in the northern hemisphere
Authors: Yoshida Masaki , Santosh M.
Published: August 2011

Terra Nova, 23, 333–338, 2011

Continental masses were amalgamated, broken apart and reassembled within supercontinents during different times in Earth history. Here, we attempt to predict the configuration of a potential future supercontinent based on a numerical simulation model of mantle convection. The mantle convection in our model is driven by a density anomaly compiled from a global seismic tomography model. The temporal evolution of a highly viscous continent with an initial present‐day configuration is simulated for over 250 Ma. The result reveals that Australia, Eurasia, North America and Africa would gather in the northern hemisphere to form the future supercontinent. On the other hand, Antarctica and South America remain in the present‐day position even after 250 Ma from present, and do not join the future supercontinent amalgam. The configuration of the future supercontinent numerically simulated herein is broadly consistent with the hypothetical model of the future supercontinent Amasia speculated from geological correlations.
Combined transcription factor profiling, microarray analysis and metabolite profiling reveals the transcriptional control of metabolic shifts occurring during tomato fruit development
Authors: Rohrmann Johannes , Tohge Takayuki , Alba Rob , Osorio Sonia , Caldana Camila , McQuinn Ryan , Arvidsson Samuel , van der Merwe Margaretha J. , Riaño‐Pachón Diego Mauricio , Mueller‐Roeber Bernd , Fei Zhangjun , Nesi Adriano Nunes , Giovannoni James J. , Fernie Alisdair R.
Published: August 2011

Maturation of fleshy fruits such as tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is subject to tight genetic control. Here we describe the development of a quantitative real‐time PCR platform that allows accurate quantification of the expression level of approximately 1000 tomato transcription factors. In addition to utilizing this novel approach, we performed cDNA microarray analysis and metabolite profiling of primary and secondary metabolites using GC‐MS and LC‐MS, respectively. We applied these platforms to pericarp material harvested throughout fruit development, studying both wild‐type Solanum lycopersicum cv. Ailsa Craig and the hp1 mutant. This mutant is functionally deficient in the tomato homologue of the negative regulator of the light signal transduction gene DDB1 from Arabidopsis, and is furthermore characterized by dramatically increased pigment and phenolic contents. We choose this particular mutant as it had previously been shown to have dramatic alterations in the content of several important fruit metabolites but relatively little impact on other ripening phenotypes. The combined dataset was mined in order to identify metabolites that were under the control of these transcription factors, and, where possible, the respective transcriptional regulation underlying this control. The results are discussed in terms of both programmed fruit ripening and development and the transcriptional and metabolic shifts that occur in parallel during these processes.
Comparative deep transcriptional profiling of four developing oilseeds
Authors: Troncoso‐Ponce Manuel A. , Kilaru Aruna , Cao Xia , Durrett Timothy P. , Fan Jilian , Jensen Jacob K. , Thrower Nick A. , Pauly Markus , Wilkerson Curtis , Ohlrogge John B.
Published: August 2011

Transcriptome analysis based on deep expressed sequence tag (EST) sequencing allows quantitative comparisons of gene expression across multiple species. Using pyrosequencing, we generated over 7 million ESTs from four stages of developing seeds of Ricinus communis, Brassica napus, Euonymus alatus and Tropaeolum majus, which differ in their storage tissue for oil, their ability to photosynthesize and in the structure and content of their triacylglycerols (TAG). The larger number of ESTs in these 16 datasets provided reliable estimates of the expression of acyltransferases and other enzymes expressed at low levels. Analysis of EST levels from these oilseeds revealed both conserved and distinct species‐specific expression patterns for genes involved in the synthesis of glycerolipids and their precursors. Independent of the species and tissue type, ESTs for core fatty acid synthesis enzymes maintained a conserved stoichiometry and a strong correlation in temporal profiles throughout seed development. However, ESTs associated with non‐plastid enzymes of oil biosynthesis displayed dissimilar temporal patterns indicative of different regulation. The EST levels for several genes potentially involved in accumulation of unusual TAG structures were distinct. Comparison of expression of members from multi‐gene families allowed the identification of specific isoforms with conserved function in oil biosynthesis. In all four oilseeds, ESTs for Rubisco were present, suggesting its possible role in carbon metabolism, irrespective of light availability. Together, these data provide a resource for use in comparative and functional genomics of diverse oilseeds. Expression data for more than 350 genes encoding enzymes and proteins involved in lipid metabolism are available at the ‘ARALIP’ website (http://aralip.plantbiology.msu.edu/).
Cryoprecipitate transfusion: assessing appropriateness and dosing in trauma
Authors: Nascimento B. , Rizoli S. , Rubenfeld G. , Fukushima R. , Ahmed N. , Nathens A. , Lin Y. , Callum J.
Published: August 2011

Background: Originally developed for patients with congenital factor VIII deficiency, cryoprecipitate is currently largely used for acquired hypofibrinogenemia in the context of bleeding. However, scant evidence supports this indication and cryoprecipitate is commonly used outside guidelines. In trauma, the appropriate cryoprecipitate dose and its impact on plasma fibrinogen levels are unclear.

Objectives: The aims were to evaluate (i) the appropriateness of cryoprecipitate transfusion in trauma and (ii) the plasma fibrinogen response to cryoprecipitate transfusion during massive transfusion in trauma.

Methods: Retrospective review (January 1998–June 2008) of indications, dose and plasma fibrinogen response to cryoprecipitate transfusion at a large teaching hospital. A fibrinogen of <1·0 g L−1 within 2 and 6 h of transfusion was used for evaluating appropriateness.

Results: Ten thousand five hundred and forty cryoprecipitate units were transfused in 1004 patients. Thirty‐seven percent and 31% were used in cardiac surgery and trauma, respectively. In 394 events in trauma, 238 (60%) and 259 (66%) were considered appropriate using the 2‐ and 6‐h cut‐off criteria, respectively. In patients who did not receive plasma components 2 h prior to cryoprecipitate, a dose of 8·7 (±1·7) units caused a mean increase in fibrinogen levels of 0·55 (±0·24) g L−1, or 0·06 g L−1 per unit.

Conclusions: In our hospital, where transfusion guidelines are overseen by transfusion medicine specialists and technologists, and policies for rapid blood component and laboratory turnaround times exist, it is possible to achieve high rates of appropriateness for cryoprecipitate transfusion in trauma. The current recommended dose causes a modest increase in fibrinogen levels (0·55 g L−1).
Burden and outcome of HIV infection and other morbidities in health care workers attending an Occupational Health Program at the Provincial Hospital of Tete, Mozambique
Authors: Casas Esther Carrillo , Decroo Tom , Mahoudo Jules Aimé Bonou , Baltazar Jesus Maria , Dores Carla Das , Cumba Luisa , De Weggheleire Anja , Huyst Veerle , Bottieau Emmanuel
Published: August 2011

Objectives  To investigate the burden and outcome of HIV infection and other morbidities amongst a Mozambican hospital staff.

Methods  Within an occupational health service set up in April 2008 in the provincial hospital of Tete, Mozambique, we offered to all staff members an initial clinical, laboratory and radiological screening and followed them up prospectively until April 2010.

Results  A total of 47.5% of 423 health workers attended the program. The cohort (female‐to‐male ratio: 2.2; mean age: 39 years) consisted mostly of auxiliary staff (43%) and nurses (29.8%). At initial screening, 71% were asymptomatic. HIV infection (28.4%) and tuberculosis (TB) (21%) were the main reported antecedent illnesses. Laboratory screening revealed anaemia (haemoglobin level <10 mg/dl) in 9% participants, abnormal liver enzymes in 23.9% and a reactive non‐treponemal syphilis test in 5%. Of 145 performed chest X‐rays, 13% showed abnormalities. All 113 health workers not recently tested for HIV were screened, and 31 were newly diagnosed with HIV infection (resulting in an overall HIV prevalence of 43.8%). Nine cases of TB were diagnosed at screening/during follow‐up. In April 2010, all but one of the participants were alive. All HIV‐infected health workers under antiretroviral therapy were actively followed‐up.

Conclusion  Serious conditions were frequently diagnosed in health workers, in particular HIV infection. Mid‐term outcome was favourable within this program. Creation of screening and care services dedicated to caregivers should be of highest priority in similar African settings.
Evaluation of active tuberculosis case finding through symptom screening and sputum microscopy of close contacts in Shandong, China
Authors: Zhang Xiulei , Wei Xiaolin , Zou Guanyang , Walley John , Zhang Hongmei , Guo Xiaoyan , Zhu Li , Liu Zhimin
Published: August 2011

Objectives  To evaluate the effect of active case finding through symptom screening and sputum microscopy of close contacts in a Fidelis (Fund for Innovative DOTS Expansion through Local Initiatives to Stop TB) project.

Methods  Secondary data from all 35 counties were collected during implementation and used. They comprised new cases identified, number of close contacts screened and their relationships. Fifty‐four in‐depth interviews were conducted with staff from key stakeholders.

Results  A total of 13 310 symptomatic contacts of 5255 index cases were screened, and 90 new smear‐positive cases were detected with a yield rate of 0.7%. The yield rate of close contacts was positively associated with smear grades of the index cases (P < 0.01). Close contacts of cases, such as classmates and workmates, who lived in a closed contained setting, had a higher yield rate than family members (P < 0.001). Gaps in project implementation such as training, incentives and sputum collection were identified through in‐depth interviews.

Conclusions  The yield rate of close‐contact screening of 0.7% was similar to other findings in China. There was a higher yield from screening of close contacts in congregated settings like schools and workshops. Future active case finding projects should provide clear operational guidelines and adequate training.
Microcirculatory alterations after orthotopic pig‐to‐baboon heart transplantation
Authors: Bauer Andreas , Renz Vivian , Baschnegger Heiko , Abicht Jan‐Michael , Beiras‐Fernandez Andres , Brenner Paolo , Thein Eckart , Schmoeckel Michael , Reichart Bruno , Christ Frank
Published: August 2011

Bauer A, Renz V, Baschnegger H, Abicht J‐M, Beiras‐Fernandez A, Brenner P, Thein E, Schmoeckel M, Reichart B, Christ F. Microcirculatory alterations after orthotopic pig‐to‐baboon heart transplantation. Xenotransplantation 2011; 18: 232–238. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Background:  Whilst macrohemodynamic function of porcine xenografts transplanted into baboons has been assessed perioperatively, the ability of the xenograft to maintain systemic microcirculatory perfusion has not been investigated after pig‐to‐baboon xenotransplantation so far.

Methods:  We investigated the sublingual microcirculation of six baboons undergoing orthotopic transplantation of hCD46‐transgenic pig hearts using orthogonal polarization spectral imaging. Microvascular measurements were performed after induction of anesthesia, in the early phase of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), during reperfusion of the porcine heart and 1 h after the xenograft had resumed its life‐supporting function. Microvascular blood flow was analyzed semiquantitatively and the number of visualized cell‐to‐cell interactions was counted.

Results:  The proportion of continuously perfused microvessels was 97 (96 to 97) % at baseline and 95 (94 to 97) % in the early phase of CPB. It decreased significantly (P < 0.05) during CPB to 89 (84 to 91), and alterations were still present (P < 0.05) when CPB was terminated and the xenograft had taken over systemic perfusion 83 (81 to 85) %. The microcirculatory changes correlated with the lactate levels (y = 18.1–0.18 x; r2 = 0.55; P < 0.001), but no correlation with macrohemodynamic parameters was found.

Conclusion:  Microvascular blood flow is altered after orthotopic pig‐to‐baboon heart transplantation, despite systemic hemodynamic parameters being well maintained by the porcine xenograft. These changes are moderate but persist after termination of CPB. Further studies need to elucidate whether these changes are transient or add to the mortality associated with cardiac xenotransplantation.
A Record of International Meetings on Xenotransplantation 1988–2010
Authors: Cooper David K. C. , Groth Carl‐Gustav
Published: August 2011

Cooper DKC, Groth C‐G. A Record of International Meetings on Xenotransplantation 1988–2010. Xenotransplantation 2011; 18: 229–231. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.
Identification of yeast isolated from dermatological patients by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry
Authors: Seyfarth Florian , Wiegand Cornelia , Erhard Marcel , Gräser Yvonne , Elsner Peter , Hipler Uta‐Christina
Published: August 2011

Species identification of yeasts is based on biochemical (e.g. API ID 32 C®, bioMérieux) and molecular biological approaches. As an alternative to DNA‐dependent methods, mass spectral analysis based identification of micro‐organisms has become increasingly recognized. In a number of studies, matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF MS) has been applied for the rapid classification and identification of micro‐organisms. In this study, the applicability of MALDI‐TOF MS for identifying yeasts isolated from dermatological patients was analysed and compared with the results from the API ID 32 C® system. Furthermore, sequencing the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of the ribosomal DNA was employed as reference method. Candida (C.) albicans was isolated in 41.9% of all cases, C. parapsilosis in 20.3%, C. glabrata in 10.8%, and C. krusei in 6, 8.1%. Rarely isolated yeasts were Candida colliculosa, famata, guilliermondii, lusitaniae, and tropicalis as well as Geotrichum candidum, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and Trichosporon mucoides. The MALDI TOF results were equal to the results gained by ITS sequence analysis in 94%, whereas API ID 32 C® provided the correct diagnosis in 84.3% (of all cases). This lower identification rate is mostly referable to frequent misidentifications of C. krusei as C. inconspicua/norvegensis,Candida tropicalis, or Geotrichum capitatum. In contrast, all C. krusei strains were correctly identified by MALDI TOF MS. In conclusion, species identification by MALDI‐TOF MS was proven to be consistent with ITS sequence analysis; the technique has a resolving power comparatively as high as ITS sequence analysis.
Allergic contact dermatitis caused by a cell phone cover
Authors: Williams Penelope Jane , King Clodagh , Arslanian Vicky
Published: August 2011

We describe a case of contact dermatitis to a phone cover, which was compounded by secondary allergic contact dermatitis to topical creams used. The phone cover was advertised as being composed of silicone only. Patch testing with the cover material confirmed the diagnosis. In addition, there were positive patch test reactions to a number of allergens in the plastics and glues series from Chemotechnique Diagnostics (Malmö, Sweden). The increasing use of phone covers and the multiple positive reactions to chemicals used in plastic manufacture seen in this case suggest that similar allergic reactions may occur more frequently in the future and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of facial dermatitis.
Lipoid proteinosis presenting with an unusual nonsense Q32X mutation in exon 2 of the extracellular matrix protein 1 gene
Authors: Chelvan H Thamizh , Narasimhan Malathi , Shankaran Subramanian Anandhan , Subramaniam Shobhana
Published: August 2011

Lipoid proteinosis (LP) is a rare disorder characterized by extensive hyaline‐like deposits on the skin, mucous membranes and various internal organs with varying clinical manifestations. The disorder has been recently shown to result from loss‐of‐function mutations in the extracellular matrix protein 1 gene (ECM1) on 1Q21. The two cases reported here had typical clinical and histological features consistent with LP. Direct sequencing of amplified DNA from the second patient showed a single nucleotide substitution (C > T) at nucleotide 94 within exon 2 of the ECM1 gene, nonsense mutation Q32X. This is the second case reported of LP with involvement of exon 2 of ECM1.
Abnormal tau deposition in neurons, but not in glial cells in the cerebral tissue surrounding arteriovenous malformation
Authors: Kon Tomoya , Mori Fumiaki , Tanji Kunikazu , Miki Yasuo , Tomiyama Masahiko , Baba Masayuki , Umehara Yutaka , Kurotaki Hidekachi , Wakabayashi Koichi
Published: August 2011

We report an autopsy case of arteriovenous malformation (AVM) of the right frontal lobe in a 50‐year‐old man, in whom post mortem examination revealed massive tau deposition in the affected cerebral cortex. The patient was diagnosed as having AVM at the age of 21 years, and died of unknown cause at the age of 50 years. Immunostaining with anti‐phosphorylated tau antibody (AT8) revealed many NFTs and neuropil threads, but not glial tau accumulation, in the right frontal cortex surrounding the AVM. The NFTs and neuropil threads contained both 3‐repeat and 4‐repeat tau. Ultrastructurally, the NFTs consisted of paired helical filaments. In the other brain areas, a few NFTs were found in the parahippocampal gyrus. There was no amyloid deposition in the brain. A variety of disease conditions, including brain tumor, viral encephalitis, angioma and cervical spondylotic myelopathy, have been reported to show Alzheimer‐type NFTs. The present findings indicate that abnormal tau deposition can occur in neurons, but not in glial cells, of the affected cerebral cortex surrounding AVM.
Patients’ experiences of health transitions in pulmonary rehabilitation
Authors: Halding Anne‐Grethe , Heggdal Kristin
Published: August 2011

HLDING A‐G and HEGGDAL K. Nursing Inquiry 2012; 19: 345–356  Patients’ experiences of health transitions in pulmonary rehabilitation

People who live with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) experience major changes in health. Coping with the illness and caring for themselves places extensive demands on them. Thus, pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is recommended as a means to facilitate healthy transitions in everyday life with COPD. This study explores the experience of patients with COPD in terms of their transitions in health during and after PR. The research was inspired by interpretive phenomenology. Thirty‐three individual qualitative interviews were conducted with eighteen patients recruited from Norwegian PR units. A thematic analysis of the interviews was performed. The interviewees described participation in PR as a time of increasing awareness of opportunities for health and well‐being with strengthened hope. The year following PR was dominated by their ongoing challenge to acknowledge limitations and explore opportunities in everyday life. Continuation of healthy transitions was facilitated by peer and professional support. The study highlights the personal resources that patients with COPD have access to in order to promote their own health. The study also highlights their vulnerability during illness and rehabilitation. The findings critique time‐limited PR and support the current trends towards patient‐centred rehabilitation efforts that incorporate user involvement and self‐management education.
Phylogeography and systematics of Acanthogammarus s. str., giant amphipod crustaceans from Lake Baikal
Authors: Daneliya Mikhail E. , Kamaltynov Ravil M. , Väinölä Risto
Published: August 2011

Daneliya, M. E., Kamaltynov, R. M. & Väinölä, R. (2011). Phylogeography and systematics of Acanthogammarus s. str., giant amphipod crustaceans from Lake Baikal. —Zoologica Scripta, 40, 623–637.

To illustrate the dynamics of evolution of the rich endemic crustacean diversity in the ancient Siberian Lake Baikal, we explored the phylogenetic relationships and intralake phylogeographic structure in members of the genus Acanthogammarus Stebbing (Amphipoda, Gammaridea, Acanthogammaridae), which involves some of the most spectacular gigantic freshwater amphipods in the world. Mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I gene sequence data gave only partial support to either of the recent competing views of systematic diversity. The three species Acanthogammarus victorii, Acanthogammarus maculosus and Acanthogammarus lappaceus along with a fourth, undescribed taxon endemic to the Ushkanii archipelago, made a monophyletic group corresponding to the subgenus Ancyracanthus. A sister relationship of the vicarious ‘subspecies’A. victorii and A. maculosus was not supported, rather the southerly A. victorii was basal to the cluster of the three other northerly, overlapping species. The data generally supported full species rank for the previously debated subspecies taxa, apart from the purported distinction between ‘Acanthogammarus longispinus’ and Acanthogammarus lappaceus, which seems to represent intraspecies morphological variation, partly related to sexual dimorphism. The sister status of Acanthogammarus godlewskii and A. gracilispinus (and thus subgenus Acanthogammarus) had weak support; reassessment of museum collections showed that they both are widespread and sympatric throughout the lake. The observed interspecies sequence differences were 13–22% (23–64% in terms of model‐based distance), suggesting divergence times of several million years under conventional calibrations, calling the applicability of external clocks into question. Strong patterns of intraspecific, intralake phylogeographic subdivision were found in A. lappaceus, A. maculosus and A. gracilispinus, each comprising several disjunct lineages with 1–5% divergence. Other species showed only slight differentiation. In all, the patterns of geographical differentiation were unique for each species, varying from moderate allele frequency differentiation to well‐established geographically segregated lineages, presumably of Early and Middle Pleistocene age. The patterns of differentiation in Acanthogammarus support an important role of allopatric diversification in the evolution of Lake Baikal fauna.
Outcomes of long‐term follow‐up of patients with conservative management of asymptomatic renal calculi
Authors: Koh Li‐Tsa , Ng Foo‐Cheong , Ng Kok‐Kit
Published: August 2011

Study Type – Prognosis (cohort)

Level of Evidence 4

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

Several small series studies have looked at the natural history of asymptomatic renal stones. The number of subjects in these studies ranged from 24 to 300 and duration of follow‐up ranged from 19.4 to 52.3 months. The reported incidences of spontaneous passage, progression and intervention were 3 to 15%, 33 to 77% and 7 to 26%.

This study reports on the natural history of asymptomatic stones with an average size of 5.7 mm which were smaller in size than those reviewed in other series. The findings were that the incidence of spontaneous passage was higher than in other series at 20% and that the incidence of intervention was low at 7.1%. This study found that stones that were less than 5 mm in diameter were significantly more likely to pass spontaneously than stones that were larger and there were no other significant differences in the outcomes when stratified according to the initial size and location of stones.

OBJECTIVE

• To evaluate the long‐term outcomes of patients undergoing observation of asymptomatic renal calculi.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• This is a retrospective review of 50 patients with 85 stones undergoing observation with annual imaging from January 2005 to December 2009.

• The incidences of spontaneous stone passage, stone progression and intervention were evaluated and assessed for statistical difference according to initial size and location of stone.

• Percutaneous nephrolithotomy, shock wave lithotripsy and ureteroscopy were performed when patients developed complications from the stones.

RESULTS

• Patients were followed up for a mean of 46 months. Sixteen percent had bilateral stones and 38% had multiple stones.

• The average stone size was 5.7 mm and 31%, 26% and 43% of the stones were located in the upper, middle and lower pole respectively.

• Overall incidences of spontaneous passage, progression and intervention were 20%, 45.9% and 7.1% respectively.

• Stones measuring 5 mm or less were significantly more likely to pass (P= 0.006).

• There was no significant difference in the incidence of passage according to the initial location of the stone (P= 0.092). There was no significant difference in intervention or progression according to the initial size (P= 0.477 and 0.282 respectively) or location of stone (P= 0.068 and 0.787 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

• Patients with asymptomatic renal stones may be managed conservatively in view of low risk of intervention (7.1%).

• Annual imaging should be performed as half of these stones will progress in size.
Development of male genital lichen sclerosus in penile reconstruction skin grafts after cancer surgery: an unreported complication
Authors: Abdelbaky Ather M. , Aluru Pavan , Keegan Philip , Greene Damien R.
Published: August 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

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

Male genital lichen sclerosis is a disease of unknown aetiology which is believed to be a risk factor for penile cancer.

This study reports that the disease can develop in non‐genital skin grafts used for reconstruction following penile cancer surgery.

OBJECTIVE

• To describe the incidence of the development of male genital lichen sclerosus (LS) in non‐genital skin grafts used in penile reconstruction after cancer surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• Between 1997 and 2009, 177 patients received surgical treatment for penile cancer in the Urology Department at Sunderland Royal Hospital, the regional penile cancer centre for the north‐east of England.

• Patients who had organ‐sparing surgery and non‐genital penile graft reconstructions were identified.

• Histology reports for specimens obtained from those grafts were reviewed to identify the presence of male genital LS and the incidence of recurrence of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

RESULTS

• The mean (range) age of patients at diagnosis was 61.8 (32–89) years. Of the 177 patients, 139 had SCC, 32 had carcinoma in situ and six had verrucous carcinoma.

• In total, 56 penile reconstructive procedures were performed using split‐thickness skin grafts obtained from the inner thigh.

• From those grafts, 18 specimens were obtained later for cosmetic, diagnostic or curative purposes.

• Male genital LS was found in six of the 18 specimens, and one of them was associated with recurrent verrucous carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

• This is the first published series to describe the incidence of male genital LS in penile skin grafts taken from a remote site after penile cancer surgery.

• These results represent new information that might help explain the aetiology of male genital LS.
Amelioration of diabetes‐induced cavernosal fibrosis by antioxidant and anti‐transforming growth factor‐β1 therapies in inducible nitric oxide synthase‐deficient mice
Authors: Ferrini Monica G. , Moon Joanne , Rivera Steve , Rajfer Jacob , Gonzalez‐Cadavid Nestor F.
Published: August 2011

Study Type – Aetiology (case control)

Level of Evidence 1b

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

The development of penile fibrosis in diabetes is associated with an increase in oxidative stress and the key pro‐fibrotic factor. TGFβ1 within the corpora. As a consequence, a putative compensatory expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) cause a steady output of nitric oxide and cGMP which act as endogenous antifibrotic agents by quenching oxidative stress and inhibiting collagen synthesis and myofibroblast formation.

This study adds to the growing body of evidence that the use of antioxidant or antifibrotic therapies may be effective in preventing and possibly ameliorating penile corporal fibrosis and therefore improving erectile function in diabetes, by targeting different pathways involved in the chronic histological damage that underlies erectile dysfunction.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether sustained long‐term separate treatments of diabetic inducible nitric oxide synthase knockout (iNOSKo) mice with allopurinol, an antioxidant inhibiting xanthine oxidoreductase, decorin, a transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGFβ1) ‐binding antagonist, and molsidomine, a long‐life nitric oxide donor, prevent the processes of diabetes‐induced cavernosal fibrosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eight week old male iNOS knock out (iNOSKo) mice were made diabetic by injecting 150 mg/kg B.W Streptozotocin (1P) with were either left untreated or treated with the oral antioxidant allopurinol (40 mg/kg/day), or decoin (50 mg, 1P, twice), as an anti‐TGFβ1 agent (n = 8/group).

Glycemia and oxidative stress markers were determined in blood and urine.

Paraffin‐embedded tissue sections from the penile shaft were subjected to Masson trichrome staining for the smooth muscle (smc)/collagen ratio, and imunostaining for smc content, profibrotic factors, oxidative stress, cell replication and cell death markers followed by quantitative image analysis.

RESULTS

Eight‐week treatment with either allopurinol or decorin counteracted the decrease in smooth muscle cells and the increase in apoptosis and local oxidative stress within the corpora tissue.

Decorin but not allopurinol increased the smooth muscle cell/collagen ratio, whereas allopurinol but not decorin inhibited systemic oxidative stress.

Molsidomine was effective in reducing both local and systemic oxidative stress, but did not prevent corporal fibrosis.

CONCLUSION

Both allopurinol and decorin appear as promising approaches either as a single or a combined pharmacological modality for protecting the diabetic corpora from undergoing apoptosis and fibrosis although their functional effects still need to be defined.
Measuring erectile function after radical prostatectomy: comparing a single question with the International Index of Erectile Function
Authors: Tal Raanan , Rabbani Farhang , Scardino Peter T. , Mulhall John P.
Published: August 2011

Study Type – Harm (individual cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

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

Measuring erectile function after radical prostatectomy is challenging: While lengthy questionnaires may be more comprehensive and accurate, a single question tool may be more easily administered, for clinical and research purpose.

The present study compares the performance of a single question and the widely used International Index of Erectile Function (TIEF) in assessment of post radical prostatectomy erectile function.

OBJECTIVE

To present a single‐question institutional erectile function scale, which was developed at Memorial Sloan‐Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) before the availability of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and to compare its performance with the IIEF. Erectile function status assessment after radical prostatectomy is a significant challenge both for research purposes and in clinical practice. Recently, there has been a shift away from complex questionnaire use such as the IIEF and regression to single‐item assessment of erectile function.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Our erectile function score, a single question 5‐point score based on physician–patient interview, was applied to 276 patients with prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy. Based on the erectile function score, patients were grouped into five groups. The mean IIEF score and the mean score of questions 3 and 4 of the IIEF were calculated and compared across the groups.

Each score group was compared with the preceding group and tested for significant difference. The erectile function domain of the IIEF and the institutional score were tested for correlation.

RESULTS

The complete erectile function domain score from the IIEF was available for 170 patients and scores from questions 3 and 4 were available for 220 patients. The institutional erectile function score categorized the subjects into distinct groups based on erectile function status.

The institutional erectile function score was highly correlated with the IIEF erectile function domain score (r=−0.692, P < 0.001) and with the questions 3 and 4 combined score (r=−0.678, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The MSKCC erectile function scale is a practical, readily administered method to assess erectile function in patients with prostate cancer after radical prostatectomy.

The erectile function score, as determined by this scale, is highly correlated with the IIEF erectile function domain score.