bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnosis of Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in the Presence of Left Anterior Fascicular Block: A Reexamination of the 2009 AHA/ACCF/HRS Guidelines
Authors: Ravi Sandeep , Rukshin Vladimir , Lancaster Gilead , Zarich Stuart , McPherson Craig
Published: January 2013

Background

The 2009 “AHA/ACCF/HRS Recommendations for Standardization and Interpretation of the Electrocardiogram” state that left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) criteria that include R‐wave amplitude in leads I and aVL are not likely reliable in the presence of left anterior fascicular block (LAFB). This statement was referenced to three relatively small studies. The present study reexamines the utility of selected electrocardiographic (ECG) criteria for LVH in the presence of LAFB.

Methods

We identified 185 ECG tracings with LAFB from patients in whom echocardiogram had been performed within 30 days of the ECG. These ECGs were evaluated for the presence of selected LVH criteria: (1) Sokolow index (R‐wave‐aVL > 11 mm); (2) Cornell criteria (R‐wave‐aVL + S‐wave‐V3 > 28 mm in men (>20 mm in women); (3) Gertsch criterion (S‐wave‐III + (R + S) maximal precordial >30 mm); and (4) Bozzi criterion (SV1 or SV2 + (RV6 + SV6) > 25 mm). The “gold standard” for LVH was left ventricular mass index on echocardiogram.

Results

Although the aVL‐based LVH criteria demonstrated lower sensitivity (45–68%) and a trend toward higher specificity (67–81%) compared to non‐aVL‐based criteria, the four studied criteria demonstrated similar diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusions

In the presence of LAFB, the aVL‐based Sokolow index and Cornell criteria, which were excluded from 2009 multisociety ECG guidelines, identify LVH with similar diagnostic accuracy as the non‐aVL‐based criteria that were included. Moreover, they are easier to calculate and are included in some of the computer‐assisted ECG interpretation software presently in use. Their exclusion from the 2009 guidelines was unnecessary.
Presence of Ureaplasma diversum in the Australian cattle population
Authors: Argue B , Chousalkar KK , Chenoweth PJ
Published: January 2013

In cattle, Ureaplasma diversum has been associated with decreased fertility, granular vulvovaginitis, endometritis, salpingitis and spontaneous abortion in cows and seminal vesiculitis, balanoposthitis and changes in bull sperm. The presence of U. diversum within the Australian cattle population has not been established. One of the aims of this study was to determine if U. diversum was present in Australian cattle, using culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), both of which are considered to be gold standards for bacterial identification. Of 100 samples collected from 66 male and 34 female cattle, 15 were positive for U. diversum. Therefore, Australia can no longer be considered free of U. diversum. Further studies should be conducted to ascertain the effects of U. diversum within Australian cattle herds and, if warranted, to investigate prevention, treatment and eradication protocols.
Multiple in silico tools predict phenotypic manifestations in congenital thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Hing Zachary A. , Schiller Tal , Wu Andrew , Hamasaki‐Katagiri Nobuko , Struble Evi Budo , Russek‐Cohen Estelle , Kimchi‐Sarfaty Chava
Published: January 2013

Congenital thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (cTTP) is a rare, recessively inherited genetic disorder with varying clinical presentation that is caused by ADAMTS13 mutations. Several studies have found limited associations between ADAMTS13 mutations and cTTP phenotype. The use of in silico tools that examine multiple mutation characteristics may better predict phenotype. We analysed 118 ADAMTS13 mutations found in 144 cTTP patients reported in the literature and examined associations of several mutation characteristics, including N‐terminal proximity, the evolutionary conservation of the affected amino acid position, as well as amino acid charge/phosphorylation and genetic codon usage to disease phenotype. Structure‐altering mutations were examined for their impact on ADAMTS13 function based on existing ADAMTS13 crystallographic data (AA 77‐685). Our in silico data indicate that: (i) The position of the mutation in the N‐ or C‐terminus, (ii) evolutionary conservation and (iii) codon usage of the affected mutation position are associated with disease parameters, such as age of onset, organ damage and fresh frozen plasma prophylaxis. In conclusion, the usage of multiple in silico tools presents a promising strategy in refining predictions for the diverse presentation of cTTP. Enhancing our utilization of in silico tools to find genotype‐phenotype associations will create better‐tailored approaches for individual patient treatment.
TREM2: a new risk factor for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Singaraja RR
Published: January 2013

TREM2 variants in Alzheimer's disease

Guerreiro et al. (2013)

The New England Journal of Medicine 368:117–127

Variant of TREM2 associated with the risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Jonsson et al. (2013)

The New England Journal of Medicine 368:107–116
Early development and regression in Rett syndrome
Authors: Lee JYL , Leonard H , Piek JP , Downs J
Published: January 2013

This study utilized developmental profiling to examine symptoms in 14 girls with genetically confirmed Rett syndrome and whose families were participating in the Australian Rett syndrome or InterRett database. Regression was mostly characterized by loss of hand and/or communication skills (13/14) except one girl demonstrated slowing of skill development. Social withdrawal and inconsolable crying often developed simultaneously (9/14), with social withdrawal for shorter duration than inconsolable crying. Previously acquired gross motor skills declined in just over half of the sample (8/14), mostly observed as a loss of balance. Early abnormalities such as vomiting and strabismus were also seen. Our findings provide additional insight into the early clinical profile of Rett syndrome.
In vivocomparison between laser‐treated and grit blasted/acid etched titanium
Authors: Prodanov Ljupcho , Lamers Edwin , Wolke Joop , Huiberts Richard , Jansen John A. , Frank Walboomers X.
Published: January 2013

Objective

Laser profiling of titanium has been of considerable interest in the field of oral implantology. However, very few pre‐clinical and clinical studies have been performed with laser‐treated implants, especially focusing on isotropic roughness topography. The aim of the study was to compare the cortical bone response of Ti‐implants discs treated with pico‐sec pulsed laser (LAS) and conventional grit‐blasted/acid‐etched (GAE) method.

Materials and methods

Prior to thein vivoexperiment,in vitrocell viability testing of theLASsurface treatment was preformed. Then, 5 mm diameter Titanium (Ti) discs treated withLASandGAEmethod were implanted in a pre‐validated rabbit tibia cortical bone model and assessed with histology and histomorphometric measurements. In total, eight New Zealand White adult female rabbits were used.

Results

Thein vitrocell viability testing with osteoblast‐like cells confirmed cytocompatibility of theLASsurface treatment. Further, the rabbit experiment demonstrated a bone‐to‐implant contact of 68% (±17) for the laser‐treated discs and 49% (±21) for theGAEdiscs 8 weeks after the implantation, which was statistically not different.

Conclusion

Laser surface treatment gives the same results to the grit‐blasting/acid‐etched method and thus is a valid alternative to conventional roughening for dental implant materials.
Computed tomography has low sensitivity for the diagnosis of early colon cancer
Authors: Lao I‐H. , Chao H. , Wang Y.‐J. , Mak C.‐W. , Tzeng W.‐S. , Wu R.‐H. , Chang S.‐T. , Fang J.‐L.
Published: January 2013

Aim

The accuracy of computed tomography (CT) in detecting local invasion (T status) and nodal metastasis (N status) of colon cancer was determined.

Method

Data on the preoperative CT scan of 153 lesions from 152 patients with colon cancer were reviewed retrospectively. Evaluation included the T stage and N stage of the TNM system. The results were compared with those obtained by histopathological examination of the resected tumour.

Results

Of the 153 tumours, 117 (76.5%) were correctly classified as Stage T1 and T2 (33 tumours) and Stage T3 and T4 (84 tumours) by CT. The sensitivity and specificity were 70.2% and 79.2%, respectively, and the positive and negative predictive values were 85.7% and 60.0%. When analysed according to the individual T stage (Tx/Tis, T1, 2, 3, 4) and N stage (N0, 1, 2), the kappa coefficient with linear weighting was 0.208 (fair agreement) for T stage and 0.154 (slight agreement) for N stage. The estimation of tumour size showed good agreement with histopathology (Spearman correlation coefficient 0.865).

Conclusion

CT scanning of colonic cancer showed 75% accuracy in identifying T1 and T2 cancers combined, but gave poor agreement between CT and histopathology for individual T stages.
Readmissions for COPD: propensity case‐matched comparison between pulmonary and non‐pulmonary departments
Authors: Wang Ying , Stavem Knut , Humerfelt Sjur , Dahl Fredrik A. , Haugen Torbjørn
Published: January 2013

Introduction

Acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) is a common cause of hospitalisation, and the readmission rate is high. We aimed to determine whether patients discharged from a pulmonary department (PD) after an AECOPD episode had a lower COPD‐related readmission rate during the next 12 months than comparable patients discharged from other internal medicine departments (ODs).

Methods

The medical records of 566 patients discharged after an episode of AECOPD between March 2006 and December 2008 at Oslo University Hospital, Aker, were reviewed retrospectively. Demographic and medical data, together with number of readmissions because of AECOPD during 12 months following the index admission were extracted. We matched patients discharged from the PD and the ODs using a propensity score and used the paired t‐test to compare COPD‐related readmission rates between the matched patients.

Results

In total, 481 patients were included in the analysis, 247 patients discharged from the PD and 234 from ODs. The propensity score matching process resulted in 155 well‐matched pairs. The mean (standard deviation) number of readmissions within 1 year was 0.8 (1.3) for the PD versus 1.1 (1.9) for ODs (P = 0.09). After adjusting for exposure time, the corresponding readmission rates were 1.1 (2.3) and 1.6 (4.0) per year, respectively (P = 0.17).

Conclusion

There was little difference in COPD‐related readmission rates between comparable patients discharged from the PD and the ODs after an AECOPD during 1 year following the index admission.
Edema of the interarytenoid mucosa seen on endoscopy is related to endoscopic‐positive esophagitis (EE) and is an independent predictor of EE
Authors: Kondo Yoshihiro , Ogasawara Naotaka , Sasaki Makoto , Arimoto Mariko , Yanamoto Kenichiro , Nishimura Kunihiro , Noda Hisatsugu , Okaniwa Noriko , Ogawa Tetsuya , Kasugai Kunio
Published: January 2013

Background

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is defined as the retrograde flow of gastric contents up through the esophagus to the larynx and hypopharynx; this is an extra‐esophageal manifestation of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Although both LPR and GERD are caused by reflux of stomach contents, their clinical presentations and treatments differ.

Patients and Methods

In the present study, we assessed esophago‐gastroendoscopic findings related to GERD, specifically endoscopic‐positive esophagitis (EE), laryngopharyngeal findings, and GERD symptoms on the 12‐question frequency scale for the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (FSSG). Then, independent predictors of EE were analyzed, and relationships among EE, laryngopharyngeal findings, and patients' symptoms and characteristics were investigated.

Results

Hiatal hernia (odds ratio [OR]: 2.70; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.17–6.23, P‐value 0.019) and edema of theinterarytenoid mucosa (OR, 3.77; 95% CI, 1.26–16.3; P‐value 0.035) were significantly related with EE and independent predictors of EE. However, patients' characteristics and the FSSG score had no significant relationship with EE; there was no relationship between patients' characteristics and EE, regardless of its severity.

Conclusions

Although LPR symptoms had no significant relationship with the findings of EE, hiatal hernia and edema of the interarytenoid mucosa were significantly related with EE and were considered to be independent predictors of EE.
Rare exonic deletions of the RBFOX1 gene increase risk of idiopathic generalized epilepsy
Authors: Lal Dennis , Trucks Holger , Møller Rikke S. , Hjalgrim Helle , Koeleman Bobby P. C. , de Kovel Carolien G. F. , Visscher Frank , Weber Yvonne G. , Lerche Holger , Becker Felicitas , Schankin Christoph J. , Neubauer Bernd A. , Surges Rainer , Kunz Wolfram S. , Zimprich Fritz , Franke Andre , Illig Thomas , Ried Janina S. , Leu Costin , Nürnberg Peter , Sander Thomas ,   EMINet Consortium,   EPICURE Consortium
Published: January 2013

Purpose

Structural variations disrupting the gene encoding the neuron‐specific splicing regulator RBFOX1 have been reported in three patients exhibiting epilepsy in comorbidity with other neuropsychiatric disorders. Consistently, the Rbfox1 knockout mouse model showed an increased susceptibility of seizures. The present candidate gene study tested whether exon‐disrupting deletions of RBFOX1 increase the risk of idiopathic generalized epilepsies (IGEs), representing the largest group of genetically determined epilepsies.

Methods

Screening of microdeletions (size: >40 kb, coverage >20 markers) affecting the genomic sequence of the RBFOX1 gene was carried out by high‐resolution single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays in 1,408 European patients with idiopathic generalized epilepsy (IGE) and 2,256 population controls. Validation of RBFOX1 deletions and familial segregation analysis were performed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

Key Findings

We detected five exon‐disrupting RBFOX1 deletions in the IGE patients, whereas none was observed in the controls (p = 0.008, Fisher's exact test). The size of the exonic deletions ranged from 68 to 896 kb and affected the untranslated 5′‐terminal RBFOX1 exons. Segregation analysis in four families indicated that the deletions were inherited, display incomplete penetrance, and heterogeneous cosegregation patterns with IGE.

Significance

Rare deletions affecting the untranslated 5′‐terminal RBFOX1 exons increase risk of common IGE syndromes. Variable expressivity, incomplete penetrance, and heterogeneous cosegregation patterns suggest that RBFOX1 deletions act as susceptibility factor in a genetically complex etiology, where heterogeneous combinations of genetic factors determine the disease phenotype.
Making their own futures? Research change and diversity amongst contemporary British human geographers
Authors: Hall Tim
Published: January 2013

The paper discusses a survey of British academic human geographers enquiring about change and diversification within personal research activities, their nature, motivations and impacts. It argues that this is widespread and a significant aspect of the production of contemporary geographical knowledge. The findings highlight the range of motivations underpinning research change, its impacts and mediation through the institutional context of British human geography. It concludes that despite a more prescriptive institutional context geographers have a degree of autonomy, albeit somewhat fettered, to shape their own research trajectories to some extent. This provides some important capacity with which to engage with imminent challenges facing the discipline in the UK). The paper complements recent critical histories of geography and sociological accounts of the discipline.
Spleen magnetic resonance diffusion‐weighted imaging for quantitative staging hepatic fibrosis in miniature pigs: An initial study
Authors: Chen Xiao‐li , Chen Tian‐wu , Zhang Xiao‐ming , Li Zhen‐lin , Li Hang , Zeng Nan‐lin , Tang Hong‐jie , Pu Yu , Chen Nan , Yang Qi , Li Li , Xie Xian‐yong , Hu Jiani
Published: January 2013

Aim

To determine whether spleen diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) parameters might classify liver fibrosis stage.

Methods

Sixteen miniature pigs were prospectively used to model liver fibrosis, and underwent spleen DWI by using b = 300, 500 and 800 s/mm2 on 0, 5th, 9th, 16th and 21st weekend after the beginning of modeling. Signal intensity ratio of spleen to paraspinous muscles (S/M), spleen exponential apparent diffusion coefficient (eADC) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) for each b‐value were statistically analyzed.

Results

With increasing stages of fibrosis, S/M for all b‐values showed a downward trend; and spleen eADC and ADC for b = 300 s/mm2 showed downward and upward trends, respectively (all P < 0.05). The area under the receiver–operator curve (AUC) of spleen DWI parameters was 0.777 or more by S/M for classifying each fibrosis stage, and 0.65 or more by eADC and 0.648 or more by ADC for classifying stage ≥3 or cirrhosis. Among the spleen DWI parameters, S/M for b = 300 s/mm2 was the best parameter in classifying stage 1 or more, 2 or more and 3 or more with AUC of 0.875, 0.851 and 0.843, respectively; and spleen eADC for b = 300 s/mm2 was best in classifying stage 4 with an AUC of 0.988.

Conclusion

Spleen DWI may be used to stage liver fibrosis.
Bilateral thick crusts on the legs
Authors: Richter Laura L. , Miller Robert M. , Hillman Joseph D. , Chiu Melvin W.
Published: January 2013

What is your diagnosis?
Effect of melatonin on chronic bladder‐ischaemia‐associated changes in rat bladder function
Authors: Nomiya Masanori , Burmeister David Mark , Sawada Norifumi , Campeau Lysanne , Zarifpour Mona , Yamaguchi Osamu , Andersson Karl‐Erik
Published: January 2013

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

There are many studies showing melatonin's potent endogenous free radical scavenging and antioxidative properties, which protect against oxidative insult, but there is no information about the effect of chronic treatment with melatonin on oxidative‐stress‐related bladder dysfunction caused by chronic ischaemia.

The model used in this study shows that functional and morphological changes caused by chronic bladder ischaemia and oxidative stress were protected by chronic treatment with melatonin, resulting in improvement of bladder hyperactivity.

Objective

To investigate the potential therapeutic benefit of melatonin for chronic ischaemia‐related bladder dysfunction.

Materials and Methods

Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into control, arterial injury (AI), AI with low‐dose melatonin treatment (AI‐ML) and AI with high‐dose melatonin treatment (AI‐MH) groups. The AI, AI‐ML and AI‐MH groups underwent a procedure to induce endothelial injury of the iliac arteries and received a 2% cholesterol diet after AI.

The rats in the AI‐ML and AI‐MH groups were treated with melatonin 2.5 or 20 mg/kg/day orally for 8 weeks after AI. The control group received a regular diet. After 8 weeks, urodynamic investigations were performed.

Bladder tissues and iliac arteries were processed for pharmacological studies, and for immunohistochemical and histological examination.

Results

Iliac arteries from AI, AI‐ML and AI‐MH rats displayed neo‐intimal formation and luminal occlusion.

In the AI group, the micturition interval was significantly shorter, and bladder capacity and voided volume were lower than in the controls. Contractile responses of bladder strips to KCl, electrical field stimulation and carbachol were significantly lower after AI than in the controls.

The AI bladders were found to have a significantly increased collagen ratio, oxidative stress and inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS) expression, and decreased constitutive NOS expression compared with the controls.

In the AI‐ML and AI‐MH groups, neo‐intimal formation was not prevented, but there were beneficial effects on bladder function and morphology. In the AI‐ML group, the beneficial effects failed to reach statistical significance.

In the AI‐MH group, melatonin significantly improved oxidative stress and NOS expression, and there were significant improvements in all the functional and morphological variables compared with the AI group.

Conclusions

Arterial occlusive disease may lead to chronic bladder ischaemia and bladder hyperactivity associated with oxidative stress.

In the model used, chronic treatment with melatonin protected bladder function and morphology, probably through its free radical scavenging and antioxidative properties.

Melatonin may prevent oxidative damage and improve ischaemia‐related bladder dysfunction.
Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients in adulthood with bladder exstrophy and epispadias
Authors: Taskinen Seppo , Suominen Janne S.
Published: January 2013

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

Many patients with bladder exstrophy or epispadias (BEE) have bladder augmentation or use a catheterisation programme. Of the remainder only some achieve so called ‘3‐h urinary continence’. In addition, some of the patients develop urinary tract infections or bladder stones related to voiding and storage problems.

The present study is one of the first to evaluate lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in detail in young adults treated for BEE in childhood by using a validated questionnaire. In addition the patient's own opinion about continence was ascertained. The study shows that both voiding and storage symptoms are frequent in patients with BEE and that most symptoms only become apparent by using a detailed questionnaire.

Objective

To evaluate lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in patients with bladder exstrophy and epispadias (BEE) who have reached adulthood.

Patients and Methods

A questionnaire evaluating LUTS was mailed to 52 BEE patients (aged 15–44 years), 32 (62%) returned the questionnaire (19 with bladder exstrophy and 13 with epispadias; 21 males and 11 females).

Seven exstrophy patients (37%) had undergone bladder augmentation.

Information on LUTS was assessed first with a preliminary question (do you have urinary incontinence?) followed by the Danish Prostatic Symptom Score (DAN‐PSS) questionnaire.

Results

Of the patients without bladder augmentation or clean intermittent catheterisation, five of 11 patients with exstrophy and 6 of 13 with epispadias considered themselves dry and 13 of 24 (54%) patients had >3 h dry intervals between voiding.

According to DAN‐PSS questionnaire only two of 11 patients with exstrophy and two of 13 with epispadias were fully continent and could void normally.

In addition to storage symptoms, eight of 13 patients with epispadias and 10 of 12 with exstrophy had disturbing voiding symptoms.

Moderate or severe LUTS was reported altogether by 12 of 15 (80%) males and by six of nine females.

Conclusions

Continence rates in patients with BEE are very dependent on the evaluation method. Most LUTS become apparent only by using a detailed questionnaire.

Moderate or severe LUTS appear to be common amongst patients with BEE.
Ecological correlates of body size in gamasid mites parasitic on small mammals: abundance and niche breadth
Authors: Krasnov Boris R. , Vinarski Maxim V. , Korallo‐Vinarskaya Natalia P. , Khokhlova Irina S.
Published: January 2013

We studied ecological correlates of body size (abundance and niche breadth) in gamasid mites parasitic on small mammals in 28 regions of the Palearctic. We predicted that smaller species would be characterized by higher abundance than larger species, all else (e.g. host species) being equal. We also predicted that host specificity of mites would decrease (that is, number of host species they use would increase) with an increase in their body size. We focused on mites collected from host bodies that include a) species that feed solely on host’s blood (obligate exclusive haematophages), b) species that feed on both host’s blood and small arthropods (obligate non‐exclusive haematophages), and c) facultative haematophages. We expected that the relationship between body size and abundance and/or host specificity would be more pronounced in obligate exclusively haematophagous mites than for obligate non‐exclusively and facultative haematophagous mites. Across all mite species across regions, mean abundance correlated negatively with body size. The same was true for obligate haematophagous species, but not for facultative haematophages. When mite communities on the same host in a location were considered, the negative body mass–abundance relationship was found in only 3 of 44 communities. Nevertheless, a meta‐analytic (across host species) estimate of the slope of this relationship appeared to be significantly negative. No significant relationship between mite body size and host specificity was found in the analyses across all mite species as well as in obligate exclusive or obligate non‐exclusive haematophages. However, the number of hosts used by facultative haematophagous mites decreased significantly with an increase in their body size. We explain the relationships between morphological (body size) and ecological (abundance and niche breadth) properties of ectoparasites by their interactions with hosts or physical environment.
Effects of casein phosphopeptide–amorphous calcium phosphate remineralizing paste and 8% arginine desensitizing paste on dentin permeability
Authors: Banomyong Danuchit , Kanchanasantikul Panassaya , Wong Rebecca H.
Published: January 2013

Aim

To compare the effects of casein phosphopeptide–amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP–ACP) paste and 8% arginine paste on dentin permeability.

Methods

Sixteen human third molars were sectioned to remove the roots and expose occlusal dentin surfaces. The pulpal side was flattened to obtain 1 mm remaining dentin thickness. Each specimen was attached on a Perspex plate and connected to a dentin‐permeability measuring apparatus. The specimens were divided into two groups according to the tested products. Dentin permeability was measured under a simulated pulpal pressure after: (a) etching with 37% phosphoric acid; (b) application of CPP–ACP or 8% arginine paste; and (c) acid challenge with 2.6 mmol/L lactic acid. Twelve specimens were prepared so that the treated dentin surfaces could be examined using a scanning electron microscope.

Results

Dentin permeability after the application of 8% arginine paste was significantly reduced and lower than that of CPP–ACP paste (P < 0.01). Acid challenge with lactic acid significantly increased dentin permeability in both experimental groups (P < 0.01). The dentin surface treated with 8% arginine paste was covered with particles, but they were removed by acid challenge. Most dentinal tubules were patent when the CPP–ACP paste was applied.

Conclusions

The application of 8% arginine paste decreased dentin permeability, but CPP–ACP paste did not.
Two‐year clinical study on postoperative pulpal complications arising from the absence of a glass‐ionomer lining in deep occlusal resin‐composite restorations
Authors: Banomyong Danuchit , Messer Harold
Published: January 2013

Aim

To observe the effects of glass‐ionomer cement (GIC) lining on the risk of pulpal complications in deep occlusal cavities with resin‐based restorations.

Methods

Fifty‐three patients, aged 18–30 years, who had one or two deep occlusal carious lesions (≥3 mm in depth) in molars, were recruited. Dental caries were removed, and the prepared cavity was restored with resin composite using one of two restorative procedures: (a) without GIC lining; and (b) with (resin‐modified) GIC lining. Restored teeth were evaluated for any pulpal complications (subjective symptoms, objective signs or loss of tooth vitality) at 1 month (baseline), 1 year, and 2 years after restoration.

Results

After excluding shallow cavities, 31 restorations without GIC lining, and 31 restorations with GIC lining, were placed and recalled at baseline without any pulpal complications. At the 1‐ and 2‐year recalls, six patients who had restorations in group 1, and 13 in group 2, had dropped out. None of the remaining teeth in the two groups exhibited pulpal complications at either recall period, regardless of GIC lining placement.

Conclusions

The absence of GIC lining does not increase the risk of pulpal complications in deep occlusal cavities restored with resin‐based restorations in either the short or long term.
Population structure and incidence of the stolbur phytoplasma vector Hyalesthes obsoletus (Cixiidae) among geographic regions in Switzerland
Authors: Maniyar B. , Kehrli P. , Johannesen J.
Published: January 2013

The dissemination of stolbur phytoplasma (16Sr‐XIIA group)‐induced yellows diseases depends on the dispersal biology and host plant fidelity of the planthopper vector Hyalesthes obsoletus (Hemiptera: Cixiidae). We analysed the degree of these two properties in H. obsoletus by studying its population genetic structure and stolbur infection rates relative to the two major host plants, Convolvolus arvensis and Urtica dioica, in order to infer relevant divisions for stolbur epidemiology in Swiss viticultural regions. Three regional populations with the potential to determine stolbur epidemiology in distinct ways were identified. First, populations associated with U. dioica in northern Switzerland were most related to genetically distinct U. dioica host race populations identified previously in Germany. Second, populations in central and southwest Switzerland were undifferentiated relative to host plant and likely have wider stolbur transmission breadths than the northern specialized populations. Third, populations in south of the Alps (Ticino) were undifferentiated relative to host plant but geographically isolated from other Swiss regions, thus implying separate population dynamics in this area. The knowledge of these three distinct epidemiological cycles will help to adapt management programmes against stolbur diseases in Swiss vineyards.
Morphology of Bromeliophrya quadristicha n. spec., an Inhabitant of Tank Bromeliads (Bromeliaceae), and Phylogeny of the Bromeliophryidae (Ciliophora, Tetrahymenida)
Authors: Foissner Wilhelm , Stoeck Thorsten
Published: January 2013

Using morphological, morphometric, and molecular methods, we describe Bromeliophrya quadristicha n. spec. from tank bromeliads of Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. The new species differs from the single congener, B. brasiliensis, mainly in having four (vs. 2) left lateral kinetofragments, 23 (vs. 32) ciliary rows, and a short (vs. long and C‐shaped) adoral membranelle 3. Both the morphological and molecular phylogenies show Bromeliophrya and Glaucomides as sister group of the Glaucomidae. Thus, they should have the same (family) rank.
An insight into the reproductive biology of the bearded goby Sufflogobius bibarbatus
Authors: Utne‐Palm A. C. , Locatello L. , Mayer I. , Gibbons M. J. , Rasotto M. B.
Published: January 2013

Preliminary results obtained from histological analyses of the male reproductive organs, supplemented with field and behavioural data, indicate that Sufflogobius bibarbatus, a small, slow growing gobiid exhibiting low fecundity, which plays an important role in the food web off Namibia, where large areas of the shelf are hypoxic, spawns demersally. Large males defend benthic nests, possibly at the edge of the hypoxic shelf. Male reproductive strategy appears to be flexible, and tentative evidence to suggest that polygyny and sneaking may also occur is presented.
Flexible‐Dose Fesoterodine in Elderly Adults with Overactive Bladder: Results of the Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Study of Fesoterodine in an Aging Population Trial
Authors: Wagg Adrian , Khullar Vik , Marschall‐Kehrel Daniela , Michel Martin C. , Oelke Matthias , Darekar Amanda , Bitoun Caty E. , Weinstein David , Osterloh Ian
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To assess the efficacy and safety of flexible‐dose fesoterodine in elderly adults with overactive bladder (OAB).

Design

Twelve‐week, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial.

Setting

Sixty‐one outpatient clinics in Europe, Israel, and Turkey.

Participants

Seven hundred ninety‐four individuals aged 65 and older (47% male) with OAB symptoms for 3 months or longer, mean of eight or more micturitions and three or more urgency episodes per 24 hours, at least some moderate problems on Patient Perception of Bladder Condition (PPBC), and Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) score of 20 or greater.

Interventions

Participants were randomized to fesoterodine or placebo for 12 weeks, with stratification according to age (>75 vs ≤75) and dosing time (morning vs evening). Participants receiving fesoterodine started on 4 mg and could increase to 8 mg at week 4 or 8 and de‐escalate to 4 mg at week 8 (sham escalation for placebo).

Measurements

Changes from baseline in bladder‐diary variables (primary endpoint, urgency episodes) and patient‐reported outcomes including OAB Questionnaire, Treatment Benefit Scale (TBS), PPBC, Urgency Perception Scale (UPS), and OAB Satisfaction Questionnaire (OAB‐S); all observed or reported adverse events.

Results

By week 8, 64% of fesoterodine‐treated and 71% of placebo‐treated participants opted for dose escalation. At week 12, the fesoterodine group had statistically significantly greater improvement than the placebo group in urgency episodes, micturitions, nocturnal micturitions, incontinence pad use, and OAB Questionnaire scores but not urgency urinary incontinence episodes. Responder rates on TBS, PPBC, UPS, and OAB‐S were statistically significantly higher with fesoterodine. Improvements in most diary variables and participant‐reported outcomes were greater with fesoterodine than placebo in participants in both age groups and when administered in the morning and evening. Rates of dry mouth and constipation were 34% and 9% with fesoterodine and 5% and 3% with placebo, respectively. Rates of adverse events and discontinuations were generally similar in participants in both age groups. There was no change in MMSE score.

Conclusion

Fesoterodine was associated with significantly greater improvements in most diary variables and participant‐reported outcomes than placebo and was generally well tolerated in older people.
Frailty and Fracture, Disability, and Falls: A Multiple Country Study From the Global Longitudinal Study of Osteoporosis in Women
Authors: Tom Sarah E. , Adachi Jonathan D. , Anderson Frederick A. , Boonen Steven , Chapurlat Roland D. , Compston Juliet E. , Cooper Cyrus , Gehlbach Stephen H. , Greenspan Susan L. , Hooven Frederick H. , Nieves Jeri W. , Pfeilschifter Johannes , Roux Christian , Silverman Stuart , Wyman Allison , LaCroix Andrea Z.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To test whether women aged 55 and older with increasing evidence of a frailty phenotype would have greater risk of fractures, disability, and recurrent falls than women who were not frail, across geographic areas (Australia, Europe, and North America) and age groups.

Design

Multinational, longitudinal, observational cohort study.

Setting

Global Longitudinal Study of Osteoporosis in Women (GLOW).

Participants

Women (N = 48,636) aged 55 and older enrolled at sites in Australia, Europe, and North America.

Measurements

Components of frailty (slowness and weakness, poor endurance and exhaustion, physical activity, and unintentional weight loss) at baseline and report of fracture, disability, and recurrent falls at 1 year of follow‐up were investigated. Women also reported health and demographic characteristics at baseline.

Results

Women younger than 75 from the United States were more likely to be prefrail and frail than those from Australia, Canada, and Europe. The distribution of frailty was similar according to region for women aged 75 and older. Odds ratios from multivariable models for frailty versus nonfrailty were 1.23 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.07–1.42) for fracture, 2.29 (95% CI = 2.09–2.51) for disability, and 1.68 (95% CI = 1.54–1.83) for recurrent falls. The associations for prefrailty versus nonfrailty were weaker but still indicated statistically significantly greater risk of each outcome. Overall, associations between frailty and each outcome were similar across age and geographic region.

Conclusion

Greater evidence of a frailty phenotype is associated with greater risk of fracture, disability, and falls in women aged 55 and older in 10 countries, with similar patterns across age and geographic region.
Pediatric falls: Effect of prevention measures and characteristics of pediatric wards
Authors: Fujita Yuichi , Fujita Mayuko , Fujiwara Chieko
Published: January 2013

Aim

This study aimed to identify the effect of fall prevention measures and characteristics of wards on the rate of pediatric falls.

Methods

Data on study variables were collected using a cross‐sectional design and questionnaires of 603 randomized general hospitals in Japan. Among the hospitals that were contacted, 252 (41.8%) returned their questionnaires. The questionnaires included the annual number of falls, whether fall prevention measures were implemented, and characteristics of the wards. Data were analyzed from questionnaires from 162 of the hospitals, which included those that answered the number of falls.

Results

The pediatric fall rate was 1.36/1000 patient‐days. Facilities were more likely to have a lower fall rate if they had a longer “length of stay” (P < 0.001), “shared information in high‐risk patients and monitored them carefully” (P < 0.001), had higher totals for the “number of study sessions for novice nurses” (P = 0.01),and “used a pamphlet to educate patients and caregivers regarding appropriate use of side rails” (P < 0.001). Facilities that had a “playroom” (P < 0.001), higher “novice nurse‐to‐nurse ratio” (P < 0.001), and those at which “caregivers were necessary for hospitalization” (P = 0.04) were more likely to have a higher fall rate.

Conclusion

The results of the present study suggest that education of parents and novice nurses on fall prevention is the most effective method of reducing pediatric falls. It is important to implement intensive fall prevention for high‐risk patients and develop valid pediatric fall risk assessment tools.
Qualitative content analysis experiences with objective structured clinical examination among Korean nursing students
Authors: JO Kae‐Hwa , AN Gyeong‐Ju
Published: January 2013

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of Korean nursing students with an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) assessment regarding the 12 cranial nerves using qualitative content analysis.

Methods

Qualitative content analysis was used to explore the subjective experiences of nursing baccalaureate students after taking the OSCE. Convenience sampling was used to select 64 4th year nursing students who were interested in taking the OSCE. The participants learned content about the 12 cranial nerve assessment by lectures, demonstrations, and videos before the OSCE. The OSCE consisted of examinations in each of three stations for 2 days. The participants wrote information about their experiences on sheets of paper immediately after the OSCE anonymously in an adjacent room. The submitted materials were analyzed via qualitative content analysis.

Results

The collected materials were classified into two themes and seven categories. One theme was “awareness of inner capabilities”, which included three categories: “inner motivation”, “inner confidence”, and “creativity”. The other theme was “barriers to nursing performance”, which included four categories: “deficiency of knowledge”, “deficiency of communication skill”, “deficiency of attitude toward comfort”, and “deficiency of repetitive practice”.

Conclusion

This study revealed that the participants simultaneously experienced the potential and deficiency of their nursing competency after an OSCE session on cranial nerves. OSCE also provided the opportunity for nursing students to realize nursing care in a holistic manner unlike concern that OSCE undermines holism.
Distribution and morphology of Clara cells in common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Seidel Victoria , Hoffmann Rebecca , Braun Armin , Seehase Sophie , Knauf Sascha , Kaup Franz‐Josef , Bleyer Martina
Published: January 2013

Background

The objective of this investigation was to define the phenotype and spatial distribution of Clara cells within the respiratory tract of common marmosets and to distinguish them from other non‐ciliated cells (goblet cells, mixed type secretory cells).

Methods

Non‐ciliated cells were identified immunohistochemically using antibodies against Clara cell secretory protein and mucin 5AC. Transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were performed to characterize Clara cells ultrastructurally.

Results

Clara cells were present throughout the tracheobronchial tree, with lowest numbers in the trachea and highest numbers in bronchioles. Goblet cells and mixed type cells were scarce in the upper conducting airways and virtually absent within bronchioles. Ultrastructurally, Clara cells showed typical apical electron‐dense granules and a prominent granular endoplasmatic reticulum.

Conclusions

Clara cells of common marmosets have species‐specific morphological characteristics, which suggest grouping the common marmoset phenotypically between primates and rodents.
High prevalence of rheumatic heart disease in schoolchildren detected by echocardiography screening in New Caledonia
Authors: Baroux Noémie , Rouchon Bernard , Huon Bertrand , Germain Agnès , Meunier Jean‐Michel , D'Ortenzio Eric
Published: January 2013

Aim

Despite the well‐documented burden of rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in several Pacific countries, the disease is poorly understood in New Caledonia. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of RHD detected by echocardiographic screening in school children.

Methods

An annual RHD screening programme is conducted by the Health and Social Agency of New Caledonia for school‐aged children in their fourth year of primary school. For the purpose of this study, we used data collected during this echocardiographic screening between 2008 and 2010.

Results

Of 12 728 children screened, 50.2% were male and the mean age was 9.6 ± 0.6 years. Between 2008 and 2010, 114 children had RHD, corresponding to a prevalence of 8.9 cases per 1000 (95% confidence interval (CI) (7.3–10.6)). Prevalence of RHD was higher on the main island outside Greater Noumea (13.7 per 1000; 95% CI (9.8–17.5)) and in the outlying island groups (14.6 per 1000; 95% CI (8.4–20.9)) than in Greater Noumea (5.8 per 1000; 95% CI (4.1–7.5)). RHD was more prevalent in Melanesian children (13.5 per 1000; 95% CI (10.9–16.1)) than in European (1.8 per 1000; 95% CI (0.4–3.1)).

Conclusion

This study documented a high prevalence of RHD in New Caledonia, particularly in districts located outside Noumea and in children of Melanesian heritage. These results uncover a hitherto unknown burden of disease in New Caledonia and underline the importance of delivering secondary prophylaxis to reduce the prevalence of RHD.
Effects of pre‐partum milking of dairy cows on calcium metabolism at start of milking and at calving
Authors: Kronqvist C. , Ferneborg S. , Emanuelson U. , Holtenius K.
Published: January 2013

This experiment studied the effect of pre‐partal milk removal on calcium metabolism at start of milking and at calving. Nine cows of the Swedish Red breed were milked for 1–7 days pre‐partum. The average milk yield at the first milking was 4.8 l, and the average yield the last day prior to calving was 13.4 l. Five cows were used as control cows and were only milked post‐partum. Samples of plasma and urine were taken to determine the effect of pre‐partum milking and calving on levels of calcium, magnesium, parathyroid hormone and plasma C‐terminal crosslinked telopeptide of type 1‐collagen (CTx), used as a marker of bone resorption. Pre‐partum milking resulted in a decrease in plasma calcium that was evident 2 days after the first milking. Parathyroid hormone increased at the same time, and CTx started to increase from 24 h after the first milking. There were no effects on plasma magnesium or urinary output of calcium or magnesium. The first week after calving, there were no differences between pre‐partum milked cows and control cows in plasma or urine variables, or in milk yield. In conclusion, pre‐partum milking activated the calcium‐restoring mechanisms but did not improve calcium status at calving.
Malaria parasites tolerate a broad range of ionic environments and do not require host cation remodelling
Authors: Pillai Ajay D. , Addo Rachel , Sharma Paresh , Nguitragool Wang , Srinivasan Prakash , Desai Sanjay A.
Published: January 2013

Malaria parasites grow within erythrocytes, but are also free in host plasma between cycles of asexual replication. As a result, the parasite is exposed to fluctuating levels of Na+ and K+, ions assumed to serve important roles for the human pathogen, Plasmodium falciparum. We examined these assumptions and the parasite's ionic requirements by establishing continuous culture in novel sucrose‐based media. With sucrose as the primary osmoticant and K+ and Cl− as the main extracellular ions, we obtained parasite growth and propagation at rates indistinguishable from those in physiological media. These conditions abolish long‐known increases in intracellular Na+ via parasite‐induced channels, excluding a requirement for erythrocyte cation remodelling. We also dissected Na+, K+ and Cl− requirements and found that unexpectedly low concentrations of each ion meet the parasite's demands. Surprisingly, growth was not adversely affected by up to 148 mM K+, suggesting that low extracellular K+ is not an essential trigger for erythrocyte invasion. At the same time, merozoite egress and invasion required a threshold ionic strength, suggesting critical electrostatic interactions between macromolecules at these stages. These findings provide insights into transmembrane signalling in malaria and reveal fundamental differences between host and parasite ionic requirements.
Components of quantitative resistance to leaf rust in wheat cultivars: diversity, variability and specificity
Authors: Azzimonti G. , Lannou C. , Sache I. , Goyeau H.
Published: January 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential diversity and pathogen‐specificity of sources of quantitative resistance to leaf rust caused by Puccinia triticina in French wheat germplasm. From a set of 86 genotypes displaying a range of quantitative resistance levels during field epidemics, eight wheat genotypes were selected and challenged in a greenhouse with three isolates of the pathogen, belonging to different pathotypes. Five components of resistance were assessed: infection efficiency, for which an original methodology was developed, latent period, lesion size, spore production per lesion, and spore production per unit of sporulating tissue. High diversity and variability for all these components were expressed in the host × pathotype combinations investigated; isolate‐specificity was found for all the components. The host genotypes displayed various resistance profiles, based on both the components affected and the isolate‐specificity of the interaction. Their usefulness as sources of quantitative resistance was assessed: line LD7 probably combines diversified mechanisms of resistance, being highly resistant for all the components, but displaying isolate‐specificity for all the components; cv. Apache did not show isolate specificity for any of the components, which could be related to the durability of its quantitative resistance in the field over more than 11 years.