bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of βS allele in the lipid peroxidation and antioxidant capacity parameters
Authors: Shimauti E. L. T. , Belini Junior E. , Baracioli L. M. da S. V. , de Souza E. M. , Granzotto D. , de Almeida E. A. , Silva D. G. H. , Ricci Junior O. , Bonini‐Domingos C. R.
Published: October 2013

Introduction

The oxidative process plays a fundamental role in the pathophysiology of sickle cell anemia (SCA), and population and environmental characteristics may influence redox balance. The aim of this study was to evaluate lipid peroxidation and antioxidant capacity in Brazilian Hb S carriers undergoing different therapies.

Methods

Blood samples from 270 individuals were analyzed (Hb SS, n = 68; Hb AS, n = 53, and Hb AA, n = 149). Hemoglobin genotypes were assessed through cytological, electrophoretic, chromatographic, and molecular methods. Plasma lipid peroxidation and antioxidant capacity were measured by spectrophotometric methods.

Results

Patients with SCA who used iron‐chelating drugs combined with hydroxyurea, associated with regular transfusions, showed lower levels of TBARS (P ≤ 0.05), higher levels of TEAC (P ≤ 0.01), and lower TBARS/TEAC ratio (R = 255.8). The redox profile of Hb AS subjects was not statistically different (P > 0.05) from that of Hb AA subjects.

Conclusion

The data suggest that oxidative stress is lower in the patients with SCA who received regular blood transfusions associated with the combined use of HU and iron chelators than the group received only HU. The redox system of the Hb AS carriers is compatible with the control group.
The mediating role of health professionals' recommendation in the uptake of colorectal cancer testing among older Chinese adults
Authors: Choi Kai‐chow , Chan Helen YL , Chan Dorothy NS , Lam Wendy WT , Chan Carmen WH , Ho Simone SM , Cheng Karis KF , Goggins William B , Shiu Ann TY , So Winnie KW
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this study is to examine the mediating effect of health professionals' recommendations on the relationship between the characteristics of older Chinese adults and the use of colorectal cancer testing. This was a cross‐sectional population‐based telephone survey. A total of 2004 Chinese adults aged 50 or above were recruited between 2 and 28 May 2007 to complete an anonymous telephone survey. The survey covered demographics, perceived health status and susceptibility to cancer, utilization of complementary medicine, family history of cancer, and cancer screening behaviour. The uptake of flexible sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy was 12%, of which only 3.4% had been recommended by health professionals. The effects of gender, a history of serious disease, perceptions related to health status and visiting doctor regularly on the flexible sigmoidoscopy/colonoscopy uptake were mediated by a health professional's recommendation. A health professional's recommendation can be a catalyst for the decision of undergoing a colorectal cancer screening test in older adult people, in particular for those who are more health‐conscious. As health professionals can play a crucial role in the development of successful population‐based colorectal cancer screening program, efforts should be made to facilitate them in making recommendations for colorectal cancer screening to targeted high‐risk group.
Pharmacists’ views on and experiences with bowel cancer screening kits in Auckland, New Zealand
Authors: Martini Nataly , Basdew Kamlika , Kammona Ala , Shen Amy , Taylor Caragh , McIntosh Timothy R , Barnes Joanne
Published: October 2013

Objectives

To explore the views of New Zealand pharmacists on bowel cancer screening, particularly with regards to faecal occult blood testing (FOBT) kits, self-perceived knowledge on FOBT kits and barriers, motivators and experiences with selling and counselling consumers with respect to FOBT kits.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted face to face or by telephone with 20 community pharmacists in the Auckland region. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim and data were coded and analysed using NVivo software to identify key themes.

Key findings

Participant pharmacists believed that they were well placed to provide advice on FOBT kits to consumers. Barriers to selling the kits included cost and perceived lack of test sensitivity of the kits, poor consumer demand, pharmacists’ lack of training and information, and a belief that selling FOBT kits was outside the pharmacists’ scope of practice. Motivators to selling the kits included customer convenience, ease of use, confidence in the kits and embracing new roles for pharmacists. Pharmacists were concerned that use of the kits may increase the burden on the public health system through customer anxiety over test results; however, they agreed that there was a need for bowel cancer screening and awareness and that people concerned about bowel cancer should make visiting their general practitioner a priority.

Conclusions

Pharmacists’ views were mixed. Pharmacists’ training and competence with respect to the provision of bowel cancer kits, and how a bowel cancer screening service can be developed to optimise public health outcomes, need to be addressed.
Financial crisis and the developmental states: A case study ofHongKong
Authors: Fung Kwok Kin
Published: October 2013

Studies taking a mediation perspective have highlighted how the actual impact of economic globalisation is mediated by institutions that include welfare regimes. Some have examined how the welfare systems ofEastAsian developmental states have changed and adapted since theAsian financial crisis of 1997/1998. UsingHongKong as a case study, this article examines how the developmental state ofHongKong mediated the impact of the global financial crisis of 2008, particularly on disadvantaged groups.HongKong's welfare regime has provided insufficient support to ‘non‐productive’ groups despite incidents of social crisis. The government's welfare responses have been characterised by long‐term strategies to improve the competitiveness of the economy, and short‐term measures to boost the spending power of the general public. Measures targeted at disadvantaged groups have been piecemeal and minimal. The government's approach towards crisis management after 2008 has been similar to that taken after the 1997/1998 financial crisis.
Lower urinary tract symptoms in female patients with pelvic organ prolapse: Efficacy of pelvic floor reconstruction
Authors: Obinata Daisuke , Yamaguchi Kenya , Ito Akiko , Murata Yasutaka , Ashikari Daisaku , Igarashi Tomohiro , Sato Katsuhiko , Mochida Junichi , Yamanaka Yataro , Takahashi Satoru
Published: October 2013

Objective

To evaluate the impact of pelvic floor reconstruction on lower urinary tract symptoms in patients with pelvic organ prolapse.

Methods

We carried out a prospective study at a single institution. A total of 223 female patients who underwent tension‐free vaginal mesh surgery for pelvic organ prolapse between January 2006 and February 2010 were enrolled and prospectively evaluated. A total of 171 cases with concurrent stress urinary incontinence (76% of all cases) underwent concomitant transobturator tape sling. For evaluation of lower urinary tract symptoms, parameters included International Prostate Symptom Score, its quality of life score, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaires Short Form, overactive bladder questionnaire, maximal flow rate and postvoid residual. These parameters were evaluated at baseline, and at 3, 6 and 12 months after the surgery.

Results

The severity of International Prostate Symptom Score total scores significantly correlated with preoperative pelvic organ prolapse quantification stages, overactive bladder questionnaire total scores and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaires Short Form scores. A total of 37% of stage 4 showed ≥20 International Prostate Symptom Score (severe cases). Postvoid residual significantly increased in stage 4 compared with stage 2. Tension‐free vaginal mesh improved International Prostate Symptom Score, overactive bladder questionnaire and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaires Short Form significantly, and also achieved grade 0 pelvic organ prolapse quantification in 91% of all cases at 1 year after surgery. Postvoid residual values significantly improved and remained stable for 1 year. Worse overactive bladder questionnaire score was a significant predictive factor for poor postoperative International Prostate Symptom Score.

Conclusion

The tension‐free vaginal mesh plus transobturator tape procedure improves lower urinary tract symptoms in the majority of patients presenting pelvic organ prolapse.
Partial nephrectomy versus radical nephrectomy for non‐metastatic pathological T3a renal cell carcinoma: A multi‐institutional comparative analysis
Authors: Oh Jong Jin , Byun Seok‐Soo , Lee Sang Eun , Hong Sung Kyu , Lee Eun Sik , Kim Hyeon Hoe , Kwak Cheol , Ku Ja Hyeon , Jeong Chang Wook , Kim Yong‐June , Kang Seok Ho , Hong Sung Hoo
Published: October 2013

Objectives

To compare the recurrence‐free survival of partial nephrectomy and radical nephrectomy in patients with non‐metastatic pathological T3a renal cell carcinoma.

Methods

We reviewed the records of 3567 patients who had undergone a nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma at five institutions in Korea from January 2000 to December 2010. The clinical data of 45 patients with pathological T3a renal cell carcinoma in the partial nephrectomy group were compared with 298 patients with pathological T3a renal cell carcinoma in the radical nephrectomy group. The effects of surgical methods on recurrence‐free survival were assessed by a multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis. All comparisons were repeated in subgroup analysis on 63 clinical T1a patients with tumors ≤4 cm.

Results

During a median 43‐month follow‐up period, disease recurrence occurred in two patients (4.4%) in the partial nephrectomy group, and 94 patients (31.5%) in the radical nephrectomy group. The results from a multivariate model showed that radical nephrectomy was a significant predictor of recurrence. However, in subgroup analysis that included 63 clinical T1a pathological T3a patients, the recurrence‐free survival rates were not significantly different between the two cohorts. The renal function was significantly better preserved in the partial nephrectomy cohort than in the radical nephrectomy cohort.

Conclusions

Partial nephrectomy provides similar recurrence‐free survival outcomes compared with radical nephrectomy in patients with clinical T1a pathological T3a renal cell carcinoma. However, there seems to be a higher risk of recurrence for large pathological T3a tumors treated by radical nephrectomy compared with small tumors treated by partial nephrectomy. Thus, large tumors with the same pathological T3a renal cell carcinoma grade could have hidden aggressive features.
Cystectomy and urinary diversion as management of treatment‐refractory benign disease: The impact of preoperative urological conditions on perioperative outcomes
Authors: Cohn Joshua A , Large Michael C , Richards Kyle A , Steinberg Gary D , Bales Gregory T
Published: October 2013

Objectives

To investigate perioperative outcomes associated with cystectomy and urinary diversion for treatment‐refractory benign urological disease.

Methods

A cohort of patients who underwent cystectomy for infection, fistula, bleeding, incontinence, neurogenic bladder or pain between January 2004 and June 2012 was established. Data included baseline demographics, indications for cystectomy and prior treatments, and complications at 30 and 90 days. Primary outcome measures were 30‐day and 30 to 90‐day complications.

Results

The study group comprised eight males and 18 females. The mean age was 57.8 years (95% CI 50.8–64.7). A total of 19 patients (73%) had resolution of their underlying urological pathology at 90 days. A total of 19 patients (73%) experienced a complication in the first 30 days, of which nine (47%) were Clavien grade III or higher. The most common 30‐day complications were urinary tract infection (n = 6, 23%) and wound infection (n = 6, 23%). A total of 44% (4/9) of patients with neurogenic bladder experienced a complication within the first 30 days of cystectomy compared with 100% (8/8) of patients with radiation‐induced fistula (P = 0.03) and 78% (7/9) of non‐neurogenic, non‐radiation‐induced fistula patients (P = 0.34).

Conclusions

Cystectomy with urinary diversion for benign disease might be successful, but is associated with a high rate of perioperative complications. Those with radiation‐induced fistula are more likely to experience complications, whereas those with neurogenic bladder carry a lower risk. Patients should be counseled appropriately regarding expected postoperative outcomes.
Health‐related quality of life after carbon‐ion radiotherapy for prostate cancer: A 3‐year prospective study
Authors: Katoh Hiroyuki , Tsuji Hiroshi , Ishikawa Hitoshi , Kamada Tadashi , Wakatsuki Masaru , Hirasawa Naoki , Suzuki Hiroyoshi , Akakura Koichiro , Nakano Takashi , Shimazaki Jun , Tsujii Hirohiko
Published: October 2013

Objectives

To assess 3‐year health‐related quality of life of patients treated with carbon ion radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

Methods

A total of 213 patients received carbon‐ion radiotherapy at a total dose of 66 Gy equivalent in 20 fractions over 5 weeks, and neoadjuvant and adjuvant androgen deprivation therapy were administered for high‐risk patients for at least 12 months. A health‐related quality of life assessment was carried out at four time‐points (immediately before the initiation of carbon‐ion radiotherapy, immediately after, 12 and 36 months after completion of carbon‐ion radiotherapy) using Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy General and for Prostate Cancer Patients.

Results

The evaluable response rates among all responses were more than 94%. Overall, a significant decrease in the scores of the health‐related quality of life 12 months after carbon‐ion radiotherapy returned to their baseline levels at 36 months. Additionally, no significant decrease was observed in the scores at any of the assessment time‐points compared with their baseline scores in the group of carbon‐ion radiotherapy without androgen deprivation therapy; however, the presence of morbidity and biochemical failure significantly worsened the scores, and the decreases in the scores did not improve even at 36 months after carbon‐ion radiotherapy.

Conclusions

An assessment based on a subjective scoring system shows a significant decrease in health‐related quality of life at 12 months after carbon‐ion radiation therapy, which tends to return to baseline levels at 36 months. The presence of morbidity and biochemical failure significantly worsen health‐related quality of life scores. Further controlled studies focusing on health‐related quality of life assessment in patients with prostate cancer are warranted.
Visualization and live imaging analysis of a mosquito saliva protein in host animal skin using a transgenic mosquito with a secreted luciferase reporter system
Authors: Yamamoto D. S. , Yokomine T. , Sumitani M. , Yagi K. , Matsuoka H. , Yoshida S.
Published: October 2013

Mosquitoes inject saliva into a vertebrate host during blood feeding. The analysis of mosquito saliva in host skin is important for the elucidation of the inflammatory responses to mosquito bites, the development of antithrombotic drugs, and the transmission‐blocking of vector‐borne diseases. We produced transgenic Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes expressing the secretory luciferase protein (MetLuc) fused to a saliva protein (AAPP) in the salivary glands. The transgene product (AAPP‐MetLuc) of transgenic mosquitoes exhibited both luciferase activity as a MetLuc and binding activity to collagen as an AAPP. The detection of luminescence in the skin of mice bitten by transgenic mosquitoes showed that AAPP‐MetLuc was injected into the skin as a component of saliva via blood feeding. AAPP‐MetLuc remained at the mosquito bite site in host skin with luciferase activity for at least 4 h after blood feeding. AAPP was also suspected of remaining at the site of injury caused by the mosquito bite and blocking platelet aggregation by binding to collagen. These results demonstrated the establishment of visualization and time‐lapse analysis of mosquito saliva in living vertebrate host skin. This technique may facilitate the analysis of mosquito saliva after its injection into host skin, and the development of new drugs and disease control strategies.
Australians' knowledge and perceptions of direct‐to‐consumer personal genome testing
Authors: Savard J. , Mooney‐Somers J. , Newson A. J. , Kerridge I.
Published: October 2013

Background

As direct‐to‐consumer personal genome testing (DTC‐PGT) is increasingly available in Australia, knowledge of Australians' perceptions and attitudes towards this technology is needed in order to assess the (potential) impact it might have on the Australian public and healthcare system.

Aims

To explore the knowledge and perceptions of DTC‐PGT in an Australian sample.

Methods

An online survey asking about knowledge and perceptions of DTC‐PGT, undertaken between October 2011 and April 2012, of 270 Australian residents. Results were analysed using SAS.

Results

Our study found limited consumer knowledge of, and interest in, pursuing DTC‐PGT in Australia. Ninety‐three per cent of respondents correctly identified DTC‐PGT as available to consumers directly, but only 40% correctly identified its availability in Australia. When asked about the content and value of the information DTC‐PGT provides, the majority of respondents indentified that DTC‐PGT could provide information about one's health and/or ancestry (82% and 74%). Additionally, respondents indicated they believed this information to be equally important as non‐genetic information about one's ancestry and health.

Conclusion

While a minority of respondents expressed an intention to pursue DTC‐PGT (27%), the majority of respondents, irrespective of whether they wished to pursue it or not, believed that genetic information was as important as non‐genetic information in regards to their health and their ancestry. The value ascribed to genetic information suggests that genetics plays a role in people's lives, and that further qualitative research could explore the ways in which people might use and understand the genetic information provided by DTC‐PGT.
Emerging role of interleukin‐33 in autoimmune diseases
Authors: Pei Cheng , Barbour Mark , Fairlie‐Clarke Karen J. , Allan Debbie , Mu Rong , Jiang Hui‐Rong
Published: October 2013

Interleukin‐33 (IL‐33) is a member of the IL‐1 cytokine family. It predominantly induces type 2 immune responses and thus is protective against atherosclerosis and nematode infections but contributes to allergic airway inflammation. Interleukin‐33 also plays a pivotal role in the development of many autoimmune diseases through mechanisms that are still not fully understood. In this review, we focus on the recent advances in understanding of the expression and function of IL‐33 in some autoimmune disorders, aiming to provide insight into its potential role in disease development.
Recognition of new citrulline‐containing peptide epitopes by autoantibodies produced in vivo and in vitro by B cells of rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Szarka Eszter , Babos Fruzsina , Magyar Anna , Huber Krisztina , Szittner Zoltán , Papp Krisztián , Prechl József , Pozsgay Judit , Neer Zsuzsa , Ádori Monika , Nagy György , Rojkovich Bernadette , Gáti Tamás , Kelemen Judit , Baka Zsuzsanna , Brózik Márta , Pazár Borbála , Poór Gyula , Hudecz Ferenc , Sármay Gabriella
Published: October 2013

Anti‐citrullinated peptide/protein antibodies (ACPAs) are highly sensitive and specific markers of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Identification of peptide epitopes that may detect different subgroups of RA patients might have diagnostic and prognostic significance. We have investigated citrulline‐ and arginine‐containing peptide pairs derived from filaggrin, collagen or vimentin, and compared this citrulline‐peptide panel with the serological assays conventionally used to detect ACPAs. Furthermore, we studied if the same citrulline‐peptides identify antibody‐secreting cells in in vitro cultures of RA B cells. Recognition of citrulline‐ and arginine‐containing filaggrin, vimentin and collagen peptide epitopes were tested by Multipin ELISA system, by indirect ELISA and by a peptide‐specific microarray. B cells were purified from blood by negative selection; antibody‐producing cells were enumerated by ELISPOT assay. The panel composed of citrulline‐peptide epitopes of filaggrin, collagen and vimentin was recognized by RA sera with a sensitivity and specificity comparable with the currently used tests. Moreover, the combined citrulline‐peptide panel including the new short epitope peptide of filaggrin, fil311‐315, also identified nearly one‐third of RA cases that were negative for antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptides, mutated citrullinated vimentin or for rheumatoid factor. The results with the peptide‐specific microarray have shown that although most ACPAs recognizing the four citrulline peptides are IgG, some of them specifically recognizing citrulline‐containing filaggrin peptides (fil311–315 and fil306–326) are IgM, and so may be produced either by newly formed activated B cells or by unswitched B memory cells. Furthermore, the citrulline‐peptides of filaggrin and vimentin detect ACPA‐producing cells, and so could also be applied to study the B cells of RA patients.
Impact of alemtuzumab treatment on the survival and function of human regulatory T cells in vitro
Authors: Havari Evis , Turner Michael J. , Campos‐Rivera Juanita , Shankara Srinivas , Nguyen Tri‐Hung , Roberts Bruce , Siders William , Kaplan Johanne M.
Published: October 2013

Alemtuzumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody specific for the CD52 protein present at high levels on the surface of B and T lymphocytes. In clinical trials, alemtuzumab has shown a clinical benefit superior to that of interferon‐β in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis patients. Treatment with alemtuzumab leads to the depletion of circulating lymphocytes followed by a repopulation process characterized by alterations in the number, proportions and properties of lymphocyte subsets. Of particular interest, an increase in the percentage of T cells with a regulatory phenotype (Treg cells) has been observed in multiple sclerosis patients after alemtuzumab. Since Treg cells play an important role in the control of autoimmune responses, the effect of alemtuzumab on Treg cells was further studied in vitro. Alemtuzumab effectively mediated complement‐dependent cytolysis of human T lymphocytes and the remaining population was enriched in T cells with a regulatory phenotype. The alemtuzumab‐exposed T cells displayed functional regulatory characteristics including anergy to stimulation with allogeneic dendritic cells and ability to suppress the allogeneic response of autologous T cells. Consistent with the observed increase in Treg cell frequency, the CD25hi T‐cell population was necessary for the suppressive activity of alemtuzumab‐exposed T cells. The mechanism of this suppression was found to be dependent on both cell–cell contact and interleukin‐2 consumption. These findings suggest that an alemtuzumab‐mediated increase in the proportion of Treg cells may play a role in promoting the long‐term efficacy of alemtuzumab in patients with multiple sclerosis.
Melanoma differentiation‐associated gene 5 in zebrafish provoking higher interferon‐promoter activity through signalling enhancing of its shorter splicing variant
Authors: Zou Peng Fei , Chang Ming Xian , Xue Na Na , Liu Xue Qin , Li Jun Hua , Fu Jian Ping , Chen Shan Nan , Nie Pin
Published: October 2013

Melanoma differentiation‐associated gene 5 (MDA5) is one of the three members in the retinoic acid‐inducible gene I‐like receptor (RLR) family, which are cytoplasmic pathogen recognition receptors recognizing intracellular viruses. In the present study, MDA5 and its spliced shorter forms, named as MDA5a and MDA5b, were identified in zebrafish. MDA5a and MDA5b can be up‐regulated in cell lines following the infection of a negative ssRNA virus, the spring viraemia of carp virus (SVCV), and an intracellular Gram‐negative bacterial pathogen Edwardsiella tarda, implying that the RLR may also be able to sense elements released from bacteria. The over‐expression of MDA5a and MDA5b in fish cells resulted in significant induction of type I interferon promoter activity and enabled the protection of transfected cells against SVCV infection. Furthermore, the shorter spliced form, MDA5b when co‐transfected with MDA5a or mitochondrial antiviral signalling protein (MAVS), induced a significantly higher level of interferon promoter activity, indicating that MDA5b may function as an enhancer in the interaction between MDA5 and MAVS.
TRAIL receptor deficiency sensitizes mice to dextran sodium sulphate‐induced colitis and colitis‐associated carcinogenesis
Authors: Zhu Jieqing , Chen Longfei , Shi Juan , Liu Shilian , Liu Yanxin , Zheng Dexian
Published: October 2013

Tumour necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) and its receptor (TRAIL‐R) play important roles in immune regulation and cancer cell death. Although TRAIL has been shown to induce chemokine release in various tumour cells, the function of TRAIL‐R in the development of colitis and colitis‐associated carcinogenesis has not been explored. In this study, we found that TRAIL‐R‐deficient mice exhibited a higher incidence of colitis and colitis‐associated cancer than that of wild‐type (WT) mice, and TRAIL‐R expression was down‐regulated in WT mice that were fed dextran sulphate sodium. Chemokines, including CCL2 and CXCL1, were highly expressed in the serum and inflammatory colon tissues of TRAIL‐R−/− mice compared with WT mice, and TRAIL‐R−/− mice showed a marked infiltration of immune cells during colitis. Hyperactivation of Janus kinase and nuclear factor‐κB in colon epithelial cells was also observed, which correlated with the severity of colonic inflammation in TRAIL‐R−/− mice. These data suggest that TRAIL‐R plays a protective role in chemical‐induced colon injury and negatively regulates mucosal immune responses.
Effects of family caregivers on the use of formal long‐term care in South Korea
Authors: Kim E.‐Y. , Cho E. , Lee N.‐J.
Published: October 2013

Aim

We investigated whether the presence and characteristics of a family caregiver affect the use of formal long‐term care under the new Korean long‐term care system.

Background

In July 2008, Korea introduced public long‐term care insurance, a form of social insurance, in order to cope with the reality of the growing elderly population and the increasing demand for long‐term care.

Methods

The family caregivers of 271 applicants for long‐term care insurance who had a caregiver and 36 applicants without a caregiver living in one city participated in this cross‐sectional study. Data were collected from November 2010 to June 2011 using self‐report questionnaires. Variables included the applicant's gender; age; physical and cognitive function; type of long‐term care used; presence and type of family caregivers; caregiver's gender, age, education level, marital status, and employment status; and service use covered by long‐term care insurance. Logistic multiple regression was used.

Results

The effect of the presence and characteristics of a family caregiver on the use of a long‐term care facility was significant. A nursing home was used for care more frequently when the applicant had no family caregiver. An elderly subject who had a spouse as a caregiver used home healthcare services more often than nursing home services.

Conclusion

The decision to use formal services may depend not only on the care level required by the applicant, but also on the presence and type of caregivers. To successfully implement the new long‐term care insurance system, consideration of the caregiver situation should be included in policy development.
Investigation of the binding and cleavage characteristics of N1 neuraminidases from avian, seasonal, and pandemic influenza viruses using saturation transfer difference nuclear magnetic resonance
Authors: Garcia Jean‐Michel , Lai Jimmy C. C. , Haselhorst Thomas , Choy Ka Tim , Yen Hui‐Ling , Peiris Joseph S. M. , von Itzstein Mark , Nicholls John M.
Published: October 2013

Objectives

The main function of influenza neuraminidase (NA) involves enzymatic cleavage of sialic acid from the surface of host cells resulting in the release of the newly produced virions from infected cells, as well as aiding the movement of virions through sialylated mucus present in the respiratory tract. However, there has previously been little information on the binding affinity of different forms of sialylated glycan with NA. Our objectives were then to investigate both sialic acid binding and cleavage of neuraminidase at an atomic resolution level.

Design

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was used to investigate pH and temperature effects on binding and cleavage as well as to interrogate the selectivity of human‐like or avian‐like receptors for influenza neuraminidase N1 derived from a range of different influenza virus strains including human seasonal H1N1, H1N1pdm09 and avian H5N1.

Results

We demonstrated that an acidic pH and physiological temperature are required for efficient NA enzymatic activity; however a change in the pH had a minimum effect on the NA‐sialic acid binding affinity. Our data comparing α‐2,3‐ and α‐2,6‐sialyllactose indicated that the variation in neuraminidase activity on different ligands correlated with a change in binding affinity. Epitope mapping of the sialylglycans interacting with NAs from different viral origin showed different binding profiles suggesting that different binding conformations were adopted.

Conclusions

The data presented in this study demonstrated that physicochemical conditions (pH in particular) could affect the NA enzymatic activity with minor effect on ligand binding. NA cleavage specificity seemed to be associated with a difference in binding affinity to different ligands, suggesting a relationship between the two events. These findings have implications regarding the replication cycle of influenza infection in the host where different sialidase activities would influence penetration through the respiratory mucin barrier and the release of the newly generated virus from the infected cells.
Ulcerated necrobiosis lipoidica as a rare cause for chronic leg ulcers: case report series of ten patients
Authors: Franklin Cindy , Stoffels‐Weindorf Maren , Hillen Uwe , Dissemond Joachim
Published: October 2013

Necrobiosis lipoidica is a rare granulomatous disorder of the skin. In up to 30% of the affected patients it can lead to ulcerations, which can impair the quality of life and are also very difficult to treat. Its pathogenesis is not fully understood. Only few studies focussing on necrobiosis lipoidica can be found, but none of them focus on ulcerated necrobiosis lipoidica. Therefore, we collected demographic data and comorbidities and assessed treatment options for patients with ulcerated necrobiosis lipoidica. Data of patients who were treated in the wound care centre of the University Hospital of Essen for ulcerated necrobiosis lipoidica over the past 10 years were retrospectively analysed. Hence, data of altogether ten patients (nine women and one man) with ulcerated necrobiosis lipoidica were collected. Of these, 70% of the patients had diabetes mellitus of which 30% had type I diabetes and 40% had type II diabetes; 60% of the patients suffered from arterial hypertension, obesity and hypercholesterolaemia; 40% of the patients suffered from psychiatric disorders such as depression and borderline disorder. Our clinical data demonstrate an association of ulcerated necrobiosis lipoidica and aspects of metabolic syndrome. This leads to a conclusion that ulcerating necrobiosis lipoidica can be seen as part of a generalised inflammatory reaction similar to the inflammatory reaction already known in the pathophysiology of rheumatoid diseases or psoriasis. In patients with clinical atypical painful ulcerations, necrobiosis lipoidica should be considered as a possible differential diagnosis. Therapists should be aware of associated aspects in patients with ulcerated necrobiosis lipoidica who besides diabetes often suffer from other aspects of a metabolic syndrome with increased cardiovascular risk factors. Therefore, these related comorbidities should also be diagnosed and treated.
Topical application of recombinant platelet‐derived growth factor increases the rate of healing and the level of proteins that regulate this response
Authors: Gowda Santosh , Weinstein David A , Blalock Timothy D , Gandhi Kavita , Mast Bruce A , Chin Gloria , Schultz Gregory S
Published: October 2013

A bipedicle ischaemic rat skin flap model was used to study the effects of daily topical applications of platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) on the healing of ischaemic wounds. Levels of tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNFA), interleukin 1‐beta (IL1B) and both the latent and active forms of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) and 9 (MMP9) were measured. Full‐thickness wounds were made on a total of 72 adult male Sprague–Dawley rats. Each group of 18 rats with normal and ischaemic wounds received either vehicle or 0·01% recombinant PDGF‐BB. Additional applications were made on the wounds on a daily basis. Wound areas were measured at 0, 1, 3, 5, 7 9 and 13 days after wounding. Ischaemia caused a delay in wound healing as well as an increase in TNFA, IL1B and both the pro and active forms of MMP2 and MMP9. PDGF accelerated the rate of wound healing in both normal and ischaemic wounds and negated the effect of ischaemia. PDGF reduced the TNFA concentration in both normal and ischaemic wounds, and the rate of wound healing closely resembled the pattern of TNFA protein expression. PDGF also reduced both the magnitude and duration of the increases in IL1B and both the pro and active forms of MMP2 and MMP9 induced by ischaemia.
Discarded deity: the rejection of Michelangelo's Bacchus and the artist's response
Authors: Minter Erin Sutherland
Published: October 2013

Cardinal Raffaele Riario (1460–1521) hired Michelangelo in 1496 to carve a life‐size Bacchus for display in his new palace. Bank records and the artist's letters prove that Michelangelo spent a year carving the sculpture, for which he was paid in full. Although scholars agree that the patron never possessed the work, determining why Riario rejected the sculpture has proven more difficult. This paper considers how the Bacchus would have contributed to the cardinal's thoughtfully constructed identity – and why the meaning would have been desirable in 1496, but unacceptable a year later. In June 1497, Riario was occupied with an intense political situation that made installing the nude pagan figure imprudent. The patron chose to leave the sculpture where it was carved, on a property owned by Jacopo Galli (†1505). Deeply insulted, Michelangelo became painfully aware of the imbalance of power in artist‐patron relationships. This essay also addresses how Michelangelo intervened in his biographies written by Giorgio Vasari (1511–74) and Ascanio Condivi (c. 1525–74) to ensure the identification of Jacopo Galli as patron of the Bacchus and deride the cardinal.
Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of avian demineralized bone matrix in heterotopic beds
Authors: Reza Sanaei M. , Abu Jalila , Nazari Mojgan , A.B. Mohd Zuki , Allaudin Zeenathul N.
Published: October 2013

Objective

To evaluate the osteogenic potential of avian demineralized bone matrix (DBM) in the context of implant geometry.

Study Design

Experimental.

Animals

Rock pigeons (n = 24).

Methods

Tubular and chipped forms of DBM were prepared by acid demineralization of long bones from healthy allogeneic donors and implanted bilaterally into the pectoral region of 24 pigeons. After euthanasia at 1, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks, explants were evaluated histologically and compared by means of quantitative (bone area) and semi quantitative measures (scores).

Results

All explants had new bone at retrieval with the exception of tubular implants at the end of week 1. The most reactive part in both implants was the interior region between the periosteal and endosteal surfaces followed by the area at the implant‐muscle interface. Quantitative measurements demonstrated a significantly (P = .012) greater percentage of new bone formation induced by tubular implants (80.28 ± 8.94) compared with chip implants (57.64 ± 3.12). There was minimal inflammation.

Conclusions

Avian DBM initiates heterotopic bone formation in allogeneic recipients with low grades of immunogenicity. Implant geometry affects this phenomenon as osteoconduction appeared to augment the magnitude of the effects in larger tubular implants.
Long‐term outcome after surgical ameroid ring constrictor placement for treatment of single extrahepatic portosystemic shunts in dogs
Authors: Falls Emily L. , Milovancev Milan , Hunt Geraldine B. , Daniel Leticia , Mehl Margo L. , Schmiedt Chad W.
Published: October 2013

Objective

To report long‐term clinical outcome in dogs treated for single congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt (CEHPSS) with a ameroid ring constrictor (ARC) and to identify perioperative variables associated with outcome.

Study Design

Retrospective, multi‐institutional study.

Animals

Dogs (n = 206) with CEHPSS.

Methods

Medical records of dogs with CEHPSS treated by ARC were reviewed for perioperative and short‐term (<1 month) data. Long‐term follow‐up information was obtained by telephone interview with referring veterinarians and/or owners. Kaplan–Meier analysis was used to estimate median survival time. Factors associated with short‐term survival, outcome grade, and total survival time were identified.

Results

Fifteen dogs died <1 month after ARC placement. Follow‐up data were obtained for 112 of 191 dogs that survived >1 month; median follow was 54 months (range, 1–175 months) and 103 (92%) dogs had no clinical signs. Estimated median survival time was 152 months. Variables significantly associated with short‐term survival included being intact and a low total white blood cell (WBC) count. Variables significantly associated with a successful outcome included having surgery later in the study period and negative postoperative nuclear scintigraphy. In the long‐term survival analyses, intact dogs and those with higher WBC counts and occlusion pressures and lower bile acid concentrations were more likely to survive.

Conclusions

Dogs with CEHPSS treated by ARC generally have a good prognosis and prolonged postoperative survival.
Eumelanin‐based colouration reflects local survival of juvenile feral pigeons in an urban pigeon house
Authors: Récapet Charlotte , Dauphin Lise , Jacquin Lisa , Gasparini Julien , Prévot‐Julliard Anne‐Caroline
Published: October 2013

Urbanisation introduces deep changes in habitats, eventually creating new urban ecosystems where ecological functions are driven by human activities. The higher frequency of some phenotypes in urban vs rural/wild areas has led to the assumption that directional selection in urban habitats occurs, which may thereby favour some behavioural and physiological traits in urban animal populations compared to rural ones. However, empirical evidence of directional selection on phenotypic traits in urban areas remains scarce. In this study we tested whether eumelanin‐based colouration could be linked to survival in two urban populations of the feral pigeon Columba livia. A number of studies in different cities pointed out a higher frequency of darker individuals in more urbanised areas compared to rural ones. To investigate whether directional selection through survival on this highly heritable trait could explain such patterns, we conducted mark–recapture studies on two populations of feral pigeons in highly urbanized areas. We predicted that darker coloured individuals would exhibit higher survival and/or philopatry (integrated into ‘local survival’) than paler coloured ones. No difference in local survival was found between adults of different colouration intensities. However, on one site, we found that darker juveniles had a higher local survival probability than light ones. Juvenile local survival on that site was also negatively correlated with the number of chicks born. This suggests the existence of colour‐ and/or density‐dependent selection processes acting on juvenile feral pigeons in urban environments, acting through differential mortality and/or dispersal.
Behavioural responses to ectoparasites in pied flycatchersFicedula hypoleuca: an experimental study
Authors: Cantarero Alejandro , López‐Arrabé Jimena , Redondo Alberto J. , Moreno Juan
Published: October 2013

Nests of cavity‐nesting birds usually harbor some species of haematophagous ectoparasites that feed on the incubating adults and nestlings. Given the negative impact of ectoparasites on nestlings there will be selection on hosts to reduce parasite infestations through behavioural means. We have experimentally reduced the abundance of all ectoparasites in nests of pied flycatchersFicedula hypoleucato explore both whether there are changes in the frequency and duration of putative anti‐parasite behaviours by tending adults, as well as whether such anti‐parasite behaviours are able to compensate for the deleterious effects that parasites may have on nestlings. Heat treatment of nests substantially decreased the density of ectoparasites, and thereby positively affected nestling growth. The frequency and intensity of female grooming and nest sanitation behaviours during the incubation and nestling periods decreased as a consequence of the experimental reduction of ectoparasite infestation. Although nestlings begged more intensely in infested nests, the experiment had no significant effect on parental provisioning effort. Reduction of parasites resulted in larger nestlings shortly before fledging and increased fledging success. This study shows a clear effect of a complete natural nest ectoparasite fauna on parental behaviour at the nest and nestling growth in a cavity‐nesting bird. Although ectoparasites induce anti‐parasite behaviours in females, these behaviours are not able to fully remove parasite's deleterious effects on nestling growth and survival.
Using stable hydrogen isotopes (δ2H) and ring recoveries to trace natal origins in a Eurasian passerine with a migratory divide
Authors: Procházka Petr , Van Wilgenburg Steven L. , Neto Júlio M. , Yosef Reuven , Hobson Keith A.
Published: October 2013

Despite recent advances in technology, it remains difficult to connect breeding and non‐breeding areas of populations of migratory organisms due to the challenges of year‐round tracking. Here, we used the Eurasian reed warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus, a passerine with a pronounced migratory divide to demonstrate the promise of integrating several sources of information within the Bayesian modelling framework for the study of migratory connectivity. To this end, we combined data from stable hydrogen isotope ratios (δ2H) of feathers, ring recoveries, and the geographic delineation of sub‐populations on either side of the migratory divide. Feather δ2H measurements from local juvenile birds sampled across the breeding range tightly correlated with amount‐weighted mean annual precipitation δ2H values predicted for the natal sites. Predicted natal origins of birds intercepted en route in the Mediterranean region largely differed among the five stopover sites. Thanks to the different migratory pathways used by different breeding populations and the existence of a migratory divide, we were able to effectively narrow the assigned regions of origin. Our results show that spatial resolution of likelihood‐based assignments of geographic origins based on δ2H measurements may improve significantly when prior probabilities derived from population‐specific migratory directions are included. Integrating information from stable isotopes, ring recoveries, geolocators and other sources within the Bayesian modelling framework will provide an extremely useful toolbox for the study of animal movements in the future.
Hydrothermal Synthesis, Luminescence, and Phase Stability of Solid Solution Nanocrystals Based on Y3NbO7 and ZrO2
Authors: Hirano Masanori , Dozono Hayato
Published: October 2013

Cubic solid solution nanocrystals in the zirconia (ZrO2)–yttrium niobate (Y3NbO7) system were directly formed at 180°C–240°C from the precursor solution mixtures of NbCl5, ZrOCl2, and YCl3 under mild hydrothermal conditions in the presence of aqueous ammonia. The lattice parameter corresponding to cubic phase linearly changed according to the Vegard's law in the wide composition range of ZrO2 (mol%) = 10–90 in the ZrO2–1/4Y3NbO7 system. The progress of the formation of nanocrystalline solid solutions based on the Y3NbO7 was assisted via the presence of ZrO2 component as a promoter with the same fluorite‐type structure. The optical band gap of the solid solutions was in the range 3.4–3.7 eV. Broadband emissions centered at 360–380 and 390 nm were observed for the nanocrystalline cubic solid solutions and pure cubic Y3NbO7, respectively, under excitation at 240 nm Xe lamp. The nanosized cubic crystallites of the solid solutions were maintained after heat treatment up to 800°C for 1 h air. The cubic phase of the solid solutions in the ZrO2–1/4Y3NbO7 system was maintained after heat treatment at 1400°C in air.
Autonomy and choice in palliative care: time for a new model?
Authors: Wilson Fiona , Ingleton Christine , Gott Merryn , Gardiner Clare
Published: October 2013

Aims

This paper will examine understandings of autonomy and choice in relation to palliative and end‐of‐life care and identify implications for nursing practice.

Background

Autonomy in relation to patient‐centred care and advocacy has been identified as a key component of palliative and end‐of‐life care provision internationally. Understandings of autonomy have emerged in an individualised framework, which may be inadequate in supporting palliative and end‐of‐life care.

Design

A critical discussion paper.

Data sources

Seminal texts provide a backdrop to how autonomy is understood in the context of palliative care. An overview of literature from 2001 is examined to explore how autonomy and choice are presented in clinical practice.

Implications for nursing

A model of autonomy based on a ‘decision ecology’ model may be more applicable to palliative and end‐of‐life care. Decision ecology aims to situate the individual in a wider social context and acknowledges the relational dimensions involved in supporting choice and autonomy. Such a model recognizes autonomy around wider care decisions but may also highlight the everyday personal aspects of care, which can mean so much to an individual in terms of personal empowerment and dignity.

Conclusion

A ‘decision ecology’ model that acknowledges the wider social context, individual narratives and emphasises trust between professionals and patients may support decision‐making at end of life. Such a model must support autonomy not just at the level of wider decisions around care choice but also at the level of everyday care.
PATH: a program to build resilience and thriving in undergraduates
Authors: Gerson Marylie W. , Fernandez Nathaniel
Published: October 2013

We developed and tested a brief three‐session program to build resilience (protection from depressive symptoms) and thriving (positive growth) in undergraduates by teaching adaptive explanatory styles. In Study 1, a pretest–posttest waiting list control experiment with 28 undergraduates found that our Program for Accelerated Thriving and Health (PATH) significantly increased optimistic and personal control explanatory styles (Attributional Style Questionnaire), resilience (Beck Depression Inventory‐II), and thriving (Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale 10). In Study 2, a placebo control experiment with 63 undergraduates found a modified version of the program to significantly increase resilience. All effects were at least moderate in size. As predicted, a personal control explanatory style significantly predicted thriving in both studies. Predictors of resilience and thriving were discussed in terms of differentiating the constructs.