bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strengths and Limitations of the Personality Inventory for Youth (PIY) in Juvenile Delinquency Assessments
Authors: Semel Robert A.
Published: November 2014

This article highlights and discusses the usefulness of the Personality Inventory for Youth (PIY) in juvenile delinquency assessments. Psychiatric disorders have high prevalence rates among youths in the juvenile justice system. The PIY was developed to evaluate a broad range of behavioral and psychological characteristics, which may make it useful in juvenile delinquency assessment contexts. Practical and psychometric strengths and limitations of the PIY in the juvenile delinquency assessment context are presented, with reference to relevant research literature. The effectiveness of this instrument in detecting response bias, particularly under-reporting, and for identifying problems associated with delinquency is discussed. The issue of item overlap and spurious influences on scale correlations, especially between the PIY Defensiveness and Delinquency scales, is also addressed. A comparison of findings with the PIY and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–Adolescent (MMPI-A) in juvenile justice samples helps to identify broader considerations about how youths in juvenile justice settings respond to self-report psychological inventories. Finally, the author offers some practical considerations for evaluators when using the PIY in juvenile delinquency assessments, and suggestions for future research.
A More Accurate Method to Estimate Aminoglycoside Clearance From Serum Creatinine in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Lee Jennifer P. , Truong Thuy T.
Published: November 2014

Background: Current literature reports that the traditional methods overestimate renal function in spinal cord injury (SCI); however, there is no accepted standard method. Objective: This study evaluated 6 published methods against measured aminoglycoside (AG) drug clearance and determined the frequency with which each method would achieve target peak and trough AG concentrations within a specified range. Methods: A chart-based investigation was conducted at a hospital with a large SCI population, and a total of 35 patients met the inclusion criteria: a diagnosis of long-standing SCI, administration of AG via intravenous infusion, and at least one set of steady-state AG peak and trough concentrations. Pharmacokinetic analysis was performed to compare the measured AG clearance values against the values resulting from 6 methods of estimating the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Patient-specific pharmacokinetic parameters were used to simulate steady-state peak and trough AG concentrations from doses derived from each method. Results: Compared with the other methods, the Lee–Dang method was found to be more accurate, with the smallest magnitude of variance from the measured AG clearance values. Five alternative methods significantly overestimated AG clearance, by approximately 70% to 160% ( P < .05). The Lee–Dang method underestimated AG clearance (by 10%), however not to a significant degree ( P = .079). Compared with the alternative methods, the Lee–Dang method resulted in a higher frequency of steady-state peak and trough AG concentrations within the target range specified. Conclusion: The Lee–Dang equation for predicting GFR was more accurate relative to the other methods in the study population of patients with long-term SCI.
The intron-22–inverted F8 locus permits factor VIII synthesis: explanation for low inhibitor risk and a role for pharmacogenomics
Authors: Sauna Zuben E. , Lozier Jay N. , Kasper Carol K. , Yanover Chen , Nichols Timothy , Howard Tom E.
Published: November 2014

Intron-22-inversion patients express the entire Factor VIII (FVIII)-amino-acid sequence intracellularly as 2 non-secreted polypeptides and have a positive “intracellular (I)-FVIII-CRM” status. Mutations conferring a positive I-FVIII-CRM status are associated with low inhibitor risk and are pharmacogenetically relevant because inhibitor risk may be affected by the nature of the therapeutic FVIII-protein (tFVIII), the affinity of any tFVIII-derived foreign peptide (tFVIII-fp) for any HLA class-II isomer (HLA-II) comprising individual major histocompatibility complex (MHC) repertoires, and the stability of any tFVIII-fp/HLA-II complex. We hypothesize that mutations conferring a completely or substantially negative I-FVIII-CRM status are pharmacogenetically irrelevant because inhibitor risk is high with any tFVIII and individual MHC repertoire.
Epigenetic and in vivo comparison of diverse MSC sources reveals an endochondral signature for human hematopoietic niche formation
Authors: Reinisch Andreas , Etchart Nathalie , Thomas Daniel , Hofmann Nicole A. , Fruehwirth Margareta , Sinha Subarna , Chan Charles K. , Senarath-Yapa Kshemendra , Seo Eun-Young , Wearda Taylor , Hartwig Udo F. , Beham-Schmid Christine , Trajanoski Slave , Lin Qiong , Wagner Wolfgang , Dullin Christian , Alves Frauke , Andreeff Michael , Weissman Irving L. , Longaker Michael T. , Schallmoser Katharina , Majeti Ravindra , Strunk Dirk
Published: November 2014

Key Points

Epigenetics and in vivo behavior can distinguish MSCs from different sources. BM-derived MSCs form a hematopoietic niche via a vascularized cartilage intermediate.
Observation and tunability of room temperature photoluminescence of GaAs/GaInAs core-multiple-quantum-well shell nanowire structure grown on Si (100) by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Park Kwang Wook , Park Chang Young , Ravindran Sooraj , Jang Ja-Soon , Jo Yong-Ryun , Kim Bong-Joong , Lee Yong Tak
Published: November 2014

We report the observation of room temperature photoluminescence (PL) emission from GaAs/GaInAs core-multiple-quantum-well (MQW) shell nanowires (NWs) surrounded by AlGaAs grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) using a self-catalyzed technique. PL spectra of the sample show two PL peaks, originating from the GaAs core NWs and the GaInAs MQW shells. The PL peak from the shell structure red-shifts with increasing well width, and the peak position can be tuned by adjusting the width of the MQW shell. The GaAs/GaInAs core-MQW shell NW surrounded by AlGaAs also shows an enhanced PL intensity due to the improved carrier confinement owing to the presence of an AlGaAs clad layer. The inclined growth of the GaAs NWs produces a core-MQW shell structure having a different PL peak position than that of planar QWs. The PL emission by MQW shell and the ability to tune the PL peak position by varying the shell width make such core-shell NWs highly attractive for realizing next generation ultrasmall light sources and other optoelectronics devices.

PACS

81.07.Gf; 81.15.Hi; 78.55.Cr
Optogenetic Activation of Brainstem Serotonergic Neurons Induces Persistent Pain Sensitization
Authors: Cai You-Qing , Wang Wei , Hou Yuan-Yuan , Pan Zhizhong Z
Published: November 2014

Background:

The rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) is a key brainstem structure that conveys powerful descending influence of the central pain-modulating system on spinal pain transmission and processing. Serotonergic (5-HT) neurons are a major component in the heterogeneous populations of RVM neurons and in the descending pathways from RVM. However, the descending influence of RVM 5-HT neurons on pain behaviors remains unclear.

Results:

In this study using optogenetic stimulation in tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2)-Channelrhodopsin 2 (ChR2) transgenic mice, we determined the behavioral effects of selective activation of RVM 5-HT neurons on mechanical and thermal pain behaviors in vivo. We found that ChR2-EYFP-positive neurons strongly co-localized with TPH2-positive (5-HT) neurons in RVM. Optogenetic stimulation significantly increased c-fos expression in 5-HT cells in the RVM of TPH2-ChR2 mice, but not in wild type mice. Behaviorally, the optogenetic stimulation decreased both mechanical and thermal pain threshold in an intensity-dependent manner, with repeated stimulation producing sensitized pain behavior for up to two weeks.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that selective activation of RVM 5-HT neurons exerts a predominant effect of pain facilitation under control conditions.
Erratum to: Albumin administration in the acutely ill: what is new and where next?
Authors: Vincent Jean-Louis , Russell James A , Jacob Matthias , Martin Greg , Guidet Bertrand , Wernerman Jan , Ferrer Ricard , McCluskey Stuart A , Gattinoni Luciano
Published: November 2014

No abstract
Diagnostic and prognostic value of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, matrix metalloproteinase-9, and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 for sepsis in the Emergency Department: an observational study
Authors: Wang Miaomiao , Zhang Qian , Zhao Xin , Dong Guijuan , Li Chunsheng
Published: November 2014

Introduction

The aim of this study was to evaluate the early diagnostic, risk stratification and prognostic value of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1), compared with procalcitonin (PCT) and the Mortality in Emergency Department Sepsis (MEDS) score in septic patients in the emergency department (ED).

Methods

In total, 480 consecutive adult patients were enrolled in this study. They fulfilled the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria and were admitted to the ED of Beijing Chaoyang Hospital from February 2013 to August 2013. A total of 40 healthy controls comprised the control group. The patients were classified into four groups: SIRS, sepsis, severe sepsis, and septic shock. Serum NGAL, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and PCT were measured, and MEDS score was calculated at enrollment. The prognostic values of NGAL, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 were compared with PCT and MEDS score. A 28-day follow-up was performed for all patients.

Results

The median levels of serum NGAL and TIMP-1 increased with sepsis severity. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC) curves of NGAL or TIMP-1 were greater than those of PCT and MEDS score in diagnosing and predicting 28-day mortality, and the AUC of a combination of NGAL and MEDS score or TIMP-1 and MEDS score was more significant. Serum NGAL, MMP-9 and TIMP-1 levels were significantly higher in non-survivors than survivors at 28 days’ follow-up. In addition, the level of NGAL was much higher in septic patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) than those without AKI. NGAL, TIMP-1, MMP-9 and MEDS score were found to be independent predictors of 28-day mortality in septic patients. The levels of serum NGAL and TIMP-1 were positively correlated with PCT and MEDS score in every septic group.

Conclusions

NGAL and TIMP-1 are valuable for the risk stratification, early diagnosis and prognostication of sepsis in the ED. NGAL is also a valuable biomarker for prognosis of septic patients with AKI in the ED.
Comparison of binder compositions in Pompeian wall painting styles from Insula Occidentalis
Authors: Gelzo Monica , Grimaldi Mario , Vergara Alessandro , Severino Valeria , Chambery Angela , Dello Russo Antonio , Piccioli Ciro , Corso Gaetano , Arcari Paolo
Published: November 2014

Background

Although the pigment composition of Pompeian wall paintings has been the object of several studies, a comprehensive characterization of paint binder components is still lacking. This work aimed investigated at a molecular level the binder composition differences among wall paintings belonging to different periods of Pompeii's history. Analytical investigations were performed on representative samples of the first, second, third, and fourth painting styles excavated from the house of Marcus Fabius Rufus (Insula Occidentalis). The application of sensitive experimental methodologies was complemented by historical knowledge to gain insight in painting techniques and materials used by Pompeian artists.

Results

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were used to investigate the organic components and pigments present in powders obtained from samples of the four painting styles. No proteinaceous components were detected in the samples with liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-hybrid quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Liquid chromatography, gas chromatography with flame-ionization detection, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry of polar and non-polar components extracted from powders were used to evaluate and compare the free amino acids, sugars, and fatty acids profiles.

Conclusions

Pigments and natural products (lipids, gums and wheat flours) were the main components of all samples. This supports the hypothesis that artists likely used water tempera for Pompeian wall paintings.
Forecasting product returns for remanufacturing systems
Authors: Liang Xavier , Jin Xiaoning , Ni Jun
Published: November 2014

One of the major challenges that a remanufacturer faces at strategic planning level today is to match its supply (returned items) with demand due to the inherited uncertainties and variations on both sides. Forecasting product returns is one of the most important tasks of this matching process. Unlike forecasting for traditional manufacturing systems, both quantity and quality forecasts are critical since return timing, quantity, and the quality of returned products can all vary dramatically. This research develops a forecasting method which incorporates knowledge from related sales, product usage, customer return behavior, and product life expectancy information to provide a more accurate prediction of product returns. The models are validated using Monte Carlo simulations. Numerical cases are also presented to illustrate its usage and some important insights.
Investment casting of nozzle guide vanes from nickel-based superalloys: part I – thermal calibration and porosity prediction
Authors: Torroba Agustín Jose , Koeser Ole , Calba Loic , Maestro Laura , Carreño-Morelli Efrain , Rahimian Mehdi , Milenkovic Srdjan , Sabirov Ilchat , LLorca Javier
Published: November 2014

Investment casting is the only commercially used technique for fabrication of nozzle guide vanes (NGVs), which are one of the most important structural parts of gas turbines. Manufacturing of NGVs has always been a challenging task due to their complex shape. This work focuses on development of a simulation tool for investment casting of a new generation NGV from MAR-M247 Ni-based superalloy. A thermal model is developed to predict thermal history during investment casting. Experimental casting trials of the NGV are carried out and the thermal history of metal, mold, and insulation wrap is recorded. Inverse modeling of the casting trials is used to define accurately some thermophysical parameters and boundary conditions of the thermal model. Based on the validated thermal model, another model is developed to predict porosity in the as-cast NGVs. The porosity predictions are in good agreement with the experimental results in the as-cast NGVs. The advantages and shortcomings of the developed modeling tool are discussed.
Direct Stimulatory Effects of Oxytocin in Female Rat Gonadotrophs and Somatotrophs In Vitro: Comparison With Lactotrophs
Authors: Gonzalez-Iglesias Arturo E. , Fletcher Patrick A. , Arias-Cristancho José A. , Cristancho-Gordo Ruth , Helena Cleyde V. , Bertram Richard , Tabak Joël
Published: November 2014

The peptide oxytocin (OT) is secreted by hypothalamic neurons and exerts numerous actions related to reproduction. OT stimulation of prolactin secretion in female rats is important during the estrous cycle, pregnancy, and lactation. Here we report that OT also stimulates transients of intracellular Ca2+ concentration in somatotrophs and gonadotrophs as well as the release of GH and LH in a dose-dependent manner with EC50 values that closely correspond to the ligand affinity of the OT receptor (OTR). Remarkably, the hormone-releasing effect of OT in these two cell types is 2 orders of magnitude more sensitive than that in lactotrophs. The specific OTR agonist [Thr4,Gly7]-oxytocin acutely stimulated the release of LH, GH, and prolactin from female rat pituitary cells in primary culture and increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration in gonadotrophs, somatotrophs, and lactotrophs. In these three cell types, the effects on hormone release and intracellular Ca2+ of both OT and [Thr4,Gly7]oxytocin were abolished by the specific OT receptor antagonist desGly-NH2-d(CH2)5[D-Tyr2,Thr4]OVT but not by the highly selective vasopressin V1a receptor antagonist, d(CH2)5[Tyr(Me)2,Dab5]AVP. Furthermore, 10 nM arginine vasopressin stimulated LH and GH release comparably with a dose of OT that was at least 10 times lower. Finally, the presence of the OTR-like immunoreactivity could be observed in all three cell types. Taken together, these results show that OT directly stimulates gonadotrophs, somatotrophs, and lactotrophs through OT receptors and suggest that OT signaling may serve to coordinate the release of different pituitary hormones during specific physiological conditions.
Length-dependent anisotropic scaling of spindle shape
Authors: Young Sarah , Besson Sébastien , Welburn Julie P. I.
Published: November 2014

Spindle length varies dramatically across species and during early development to segregate chromosomes optimally. Both intrinsic factors, such as regulatory molecules, and extrinsic factors, such as cytoplasmic volume, determine spindle length scaling. However, the properties that govern spindle shape and whether these features can be modulated remain unknown. Here, we analyzed quantitatively how the molecular players which regulate microtubule dynamics control the kinetics of spindle formation and shape. We find that, in absence of Clasp1 and Clasp2, spindle assembly is biphasic due to unopposed inward pulling forces from the kinetochore-fibers and that kinetochore-fibers also alter spindle geometry. We demonstrate that spindle shape scaling is independent of the nature of the molecules that regulate dynamic microtubule properties, but is dependent on the steady-state metaphase spindle length. The shape of the spindle scales anisotropically with increasing length. Our results suggest that intrinsic mechanisms control the shape of the spindle to ensure the efficient capture and alignment of chromosomes independently of spindle length.
Dysregulation of lysosomal morphology by pathogenic LRRK2 is corrected by two-pore channel 2 inhibition
Authors: Hockey Leanne N. , Kilpatrick Bethan S. , Eden Emily R. , Lin-Moshier Yaping , Brailoiu G. Cristina , Brailoiu Eugen , Futter Clare E. , Schapira Anthony H. , Marchant Jonathan S. , Patel Sandip
Published: November 2014

Two-pore channels (TPCs) are endo-lysosomal ion channels implicated in Ca2+ signalling from acidic organelles. The relevance of these ubiquitous proteins for human disease however is unclear. Here we report that lysosomes are enlarged and aggregated in fibroblasts from Parkinson disease patients with the common G2019S mutation in LRRK2. Defects were corrected by molecular silencing of TPC2, pharmacological inhibition of TPC regulators (Rab7, NAADP, PI(3,5)P2) and buffering local Ca2+ increases. NAADP-evoked Ca2+ signals were exaggerated in diseased cells. TPC2 is thus a potential druggable target within a pathogenic LRRK2 cascade that disrupts Ca2+-dependent trafficking in Parkinson disease.
Trends in Multiphase Modeling and Simulation of Sprays
Authors: Kolakaluri Ravi , Subramaniam Shankar , Panchagnula Mahesh V.
Published: November 2014

The characteristic features of sprays pose unique challenges to multiphase flow methods that are used to model and simulate their behavior. This article reviews the principal modeling challenges posed by sprays, and discusses the capabilities of different modeling approaches by classifying them according to the basis for their statistical representation and the level of closure. The article goes on to provide guidelines for their comparative assessment and also a perspective on the outlook for spray modeling. Multiphase flow simulation approaches that are used for spray computations are classified according to scale, accuracy, computational cost and problem complexity. The requirements of a simulation method to be successfully used for spray computation are then discussed. The review concludes with a perspective on the outlook for spray simulation methods.
Experimental Study of Load-Bearing Cold-Formed Steel Walls Exposed to Realistic Design Fires
Authors: Ariyanayagam Anthony , Mahendran Mahen
Published: November 2014

This paper presents the details of full scale fire tests of LSF wall panels conducted using realistic fire time-temperature curves. Tests included eight LSF wall specimens of various configurations exposed to both parametric design and natural fire curves. Details of the fire test set-up, test procedure and the results including the measured time-temperature and deformation curves of LSF wall panels are presented along with wall stud failure modes and times. This paper also compares the structural and thermal behavioural characteristics of LSF wall studs with those based on the standard time-temperature curve. Finally, the stud failure times and temperatures are summarized for both standard and realistic design fire curves. This study provides the necessary test data to validate the numerical models of LSF wall panels and to undertake a detailed study into the structural and thermal performance of LSF wall panels exposed to realistic design fire curves.
Correspondence
Authors: Pointon Wallace
Published: November 2014

COST-EFFECTIVE CARE FOR OLDER PEOPLE
Signposts for success for learning disability services
Authors: Parrish Alan A
Published: November 2014

People with learning disabilities and their carers are often confronted by prejudice. The NHS Executive's (1998) new document Signposts for Success, however, states that ‘discriminating and disadvantage in the NHS will not be tolerated’. This guidance document, which consulted over 500 service users and their carers, examines the quality and range of services that people with learning disabilities can expect. It also clarifies the role of the NHS with regard to this client group.
New approaches to the treatment of venous leg ulcers
Authors: Hoffman Richard
Published: November 2014

Increased understanding of the pathology of leg ulcers has made the differences in the pathologies of leg ulcers between patients more apparent. This article examines some areas of research that are advancing our understanding of the pathology of venous leg ulcers. The impact that this information is having on the development of new therapies and the implications for nursing practice are discussed.
Cancer of the prostate 2: the nursing role in health promotion
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: November 2014

The first article (Vol 7(3): 152–8) in this three-part series presented the incidence of prostatic cancer and discussed the importance of diagnosis, early detection and screening. This article examines assessment and staging of local disease and the sites of metastatic spread. The nurse's role in promoting men's health is also highlighted. Health education models and the choice of an appropriate one are discussed, emphasizing the role of the nurse. Finally, recommendations for practice are offered.
Correspondence
Authors: Morris Mervyn , Curran Evonne , Wells A
Published: November 2014

OUTREACH INTERVENTIONS FOR THE HOMELESS MENTALLY ILL

THE CASE AGAINST DAILY DRY GAUZE DRESSING CHANGES

MALNUTRITION IN HOSPITAL
Specialist practice and the professional project for nursing
Authors: Wigens Lynne
Published: November 2014

This article examines the implications of the UKCC's (1994) decision to determine a sphere of practice for specialist practitioners. It coincides with the move towards professional status within nursing. It is argued that a specialization strategy for nursing has obvious advantages for those who wish nursing to be successful in its professionalization. However, unless managers use long-term planning the potential of specialist nursing practice may not be realized. It is suggested that the professionalization of nursing (professional project) is strongly linked to the fact that nursing remains a predominately female occupation (Witz, 1992), and initiatives, such as specialization, should be viewed from this standpoint. Clinical leadership is crucial to the success of specialism within nursing over the next few years. Opportunities need to be taken to reappraise specialist practitioner roles, and allow innovation to occur. Financial and educational support needs to be available and responsive; the clearer the message is regarding a clinical career structure for nursing, the more likely the ‘professional project’ is to succeed.
An alternative training approach to clinical supervision: 1
Authors: Cutcliffe John R , Proctor Bridgid
Published: November 2014

This article, the first of two-parts, introduces a new series on clinical supervision. It focuses on the issues of training in clinical supervision. The practice of clinical supervision is considered by the Chief Nursing Officer of the Department of Health to be fundamental to safeguarding standards, the development of expertise and the delivery of quality care. Clinical supervision allegedly brings significant benefits to clients and clinicians, and recent research has produced both quantitative and qualitative evidence to support this argument. Many trusts have already made attempts to introduce widespread implementation of clinical supervision and most developments are concerned with equipping clinicians to be supervisors not supervisees. This presents several logistical and financial problems, and currently neither the infrastructure nor the culture exist in nursing to facilitate its widespread and effective uptake. The authors argue that an alternative method of tackling this problem would be to train nurses to become supervisees not supervisors. Supervisee training could commence following the first year of the common foundation programme component of diploma and undergraduate nurse education.
District nurses' knowledge and practice of wound assessment: 1
Authors: Kennedy Catriona , Arundel Dawn
Published: November 2014

Nurses are expected to implement knowledge gained through research into their practice to ensure the delivery of high quality and effective care. As district nurses spend a significant proportion of their time on wound care, a sound knowledge base is essential. The first part of this two-part article reports a study that examined the wound assessment practices of 20 district nurses in one healthcare trust. The most common method of assessing wounds was found to be a combination of observation and experience. Assessment using observation or experience without documentation may be subjective, variable between practitioners and unreliable or inaccurate. The second part of this article, to be published in the next issue, will describe the subseqent establishment of a forum to develop a research-based wound assessment tool.
Legal aspects of clinical supervision 1: employer vs employee
Authors: Dimond Bridgit
Published: November 2014

In order to implement clinical supervision some major issues need to be clarified. This article looks at clinical supervision in terms of the relationship between the employer and the employee. It discusses clinical supervision as a contractual requirement and a voluntary system and examines some of the related problems. The implementation of clinical supervision may be limited by the significant cost of training. Possible frameworks for setting up a system for supervision are suggested. Employers need to be adequately informed about the clinical supervision process so that it can become both effective and flexible. The second article in this series will consider legal issues relating to professional accountability, patients' rights, and records and record keeping. These two articles refer to information generated from a workshop held at Prince Philip Hospital, Llanelli, in which practitioners looked at some of the legal issues relating to clinical supervision.
Should nurses be stopped sleeping on night duty?
Authors: Castledine George
Published: November 2014

I will always remember my first period of night duty as a student nurse on a children's ward. The six babies on the unit had been allocated between myself and the senior nurse. By the time I had finished feeding the fifth baby I went to find my colleague and found him fast asleep with a small baby in his arms.
Inadvertent hypothermia prevention: the anaesthetic nurses' role
Authors: Bernthal EMM
Published: November 2014

Up to 90% of patients experience hypothermia perioperatively. Inadvertent hypothermia can have a profound physiological effect on the body, varying from mild vasoconstriction and feeling cold to cardiac arrest and death. Anaesthesia, general or regional, increases the risk as the normal protective reflexes such as shivering are absent, particularly when muscle relaxants are used. The very young and the elderly are particularly vulnerable. Preoperative assessment is essential. The greatest reduction in temperature occurs in the first hour of surgery, as a result of patient exposure, skin disinfection with cold fluids, inhalation of cold volatile gases and the administration of cold intravenous fluids, as well as exposure to cool theatre temperatures. If the theatre temperature drops below 21°C, all patients will develop hypothermia. Patients lose heat through radiation, convection and conduction, with conduction having the greatest effect. Forced air warmers such as the Bair Hugger™ are the most effective means of preventing and treating heat loss. They should be used routinely, although their contribution to infection also needs to be considered. Nurses should be aware of the risks of hypothermia so that modes of prevention can be employed to minimize the risks of inadvertent hypothermia.
Should children with Down's syndrome have cosmetic surgery?
Authors: Aylott Jill
Published: November 2014

This article explores the rise in the uptake of cosmetic surgery for children with Down's syndrome. The pursuit of such surgical intervention is often a response to society's discriminatory attitude towards Down's syndrome and difference. Such an action raises many ethical concerns, e.g. should a child be subjected to cosmetic surgery when he/she does not understand what is happening to him/her? Much time, effort and resources are needed to work with children with Down's syndrome to ensure their full and active development through childhood. There have been changes in challenging discriminatory attitudes towards people with a disability in society. This, however, is the result of the public coming into contact and building relationships with people with disabilities in the wider community and not cosmetic surgery.
Brevet tx: anti-embolism stockings for prevention and treatment of DVT
Authors: Collier Mark
Published: November 2014

This article highlights the incidence and aetiology of thrombi, in particular deep vein thrombosis (DVT) before discussing the clinical features, diagnostic techniques and management of patients with suspected or confirmed DVT. The prophylactic use of anti-embolism stockings is then reviewed, including relevant clinical evidence, with particular reference to one of the leading brands of stocking currently available, that of Brevet tx (Seton Scholl Healthcare). The action, features, benefits and application of this type of anti-embolic stocking are detailed.
Correspondence
Authors: Rowbotham Matthew , Perkins J
Published: November 2014

Walk-in clinics: progress or the death of the GP?

Project 2000's failure should be acknowledged
Meningitis: causes, symptoms and signs and nursing management
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: November 2014

This article discusses the infectious disease meningitis − a notifiable disease since 1912 (Payling, 1994). The major concern is bacterial meningitis and in particular the meningococcal cause. Viral meningitis is also considered. Some 50% of cases of meningitis in the UK are of the viral kind, where the patient usually makes a full recovery and in some instances may not be aware of having contracted the disease (Payling, 1994). Cases of bacterial meningitis are few and if treated effectively and with urgency can result in full recovery; however, any delay may result in fatal sequelae. Bacterial meningitis occurs mainly as a result of meningococcal, pneumococcal or Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) infection. The latter has largely been eradicated in England and Wales as a result of effective immunization programmes. The nurse must develop an awareness of the disease, and diagnose it at an early stage. He/she should know the procedures for referring the patient to prevent an escalation of the infection and to reduce the severity of its effects.
Confidentiality 9: the law relating to whistle blowing
Authors: Dimond Bridgit
Published: November 2014

Alex Black, a staff nurse on an intensive care unit, was extremely concerned about the lack of adequate staffing levels on the unit. He had put his concerns in writing to his manager, but no action appeared to have been taken. On one weekend there was such a lack of staff that it was impossible to ensure that one nurse was attending every patient on a ventilator at all times. A young girl, injured in a road accident, was brought into the unit following surgery, and was placed on a ventilator. Alex was asked to monitor her care as well as that of another patient being ventilated. The girl died and Alex considered that this might not have happened if there had been adequate staff levels. He knows that the family are ignorant of how low the standards of care were and is anxious that they should be notified. Would it be lawful for him to tell them?
Recruitment Into a Cessation Trial Via the New Zealand Quitline: Many Benefits, Few Limitations
Authors: Bullen Chris , Howe Colin , Grigg Michele , Phillips Frances , Silcock Rose , Glover Marewa , McRobbie Hayden , Whittaker Robyn
Published: November 2014

Objective: To report on the use of the New Zealand Quitline for recruiting participants to a smoking cessation trial. Methods: Analysis of data on trial recruitment and randomisation. Results: 68% of 26,369 callers to the New Zealand Quitline over 12 months indicated an interest in taking part in research, 28% of whom met eligibility criteria for a cessation intervention trial, assessed on the data routinely collected at Quitline registration. Of these, 1317 (26%) were contacted by call back with 1027 (78%) agreeing to take part in the trial. After further eligibility checking 851 people were randomised. Weighting of calls ensured that 25% of participants were Maori. Conclusions: Quitlines have good potential to be an effective means of randomising participants into cessation trials and ensuring adequate representation of underrepresented population groups.
IMPROVING SPECIFIC POWER CONSUMPTION FOR MECHANICAL MIXING OF THE FEEDSTOCK IN A BIOGAS FERMENTER BY MECHANICAL DISINTEGRATION OF LIGNOCELLULOSE BIOMASS
Authors: Kratky Lukas , Jirout Tomáš
Published: November 2014

Lignocellulosic biomass particles in biogas fermenter batch either sediment towards vessel bottom or rise towards batch surface, where they float and form a compact thick scum. These processes have primarily the negative influence on batch homogeneity, on evenness of batch temperature field, on removal of produced biogas bubbles out of liquid batch and also on mass transfer among microorganisms. These facts result in non-effective usage of biomass energy-potential that entails in low biogas yields. Therefore, good mixing of bioreactor batch is very important in order to stabilize anaerobic digestion process. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the impact of wheat straw disintegration and its hydration on hydrodynamic behaviour and on specific power consumption for mechanical mixing of wheat straw-water suspension. Based on experimental results, it was concluded that both hydration and mechanical disintegration of lignocellulosic biomass significantly improve homogeneity and pump-ability of biomass-water batches. Wheat straw hydration itself decreases specific power consumption for batch mixing by 60 % towards untreated straw. Moreover, mechanical disintegration itself decreases specific power consumption by 50 % at least towards untreated hydrated straw.
HYDRATION OF PLASMA-TREATED ALUMOSILICATE BINDERS
Authors: Šmilauer Vít , Babchenko Oleg , Potocký Štepán , Kromka Alexander
Published: November 2014

Plasma treatment offers several applications in material science. In this research, the potential of plasma treatment is explored on the hydration of hydrophilic CNT-enriched cement and hydrophilic fly ash. The evolution of the hydration heat and the compressive strength show that a hydrophilic surface slightly accelerates the early-age hydration kinetics, while the long-term properties remain unchanged.
RESONANT SWITCH MODEL OF HF QPOS AND EQUATIONS OF STATE OF NEUTRON STARS AND QUARK STARS
Authors: Stuchlík Zdenek , Urbanec Martin , Kotrlová Andrea , Török Gabriel , Goluchová Katerina
Published: November 2014

The mass and spin estimates of the 4U 1636−53 neutron star obtained by the Resonant Switch (RS) model of high-frequency quasi-periodic oscillations (HF QPOs) are tested by a large variety of equations of state (EoS) governing the structure of neutron stars. Neutron star models are constructed under the Hartle–Thorne theory of slowly rotating neutron stars calculated using the observationally given rotational frequency frot = 580 Hz (or alternatively frot = 290 Hz) of the neutron star at 4U 1636−53. It is demonstrated that only two variants of the RS model are compatible with the parameters obtained by modelling neutron stars for the rotational frequency frot = 580 Hz. The variant giving the best fit with parameters M ~ 2.20Mʘ and a ~ 0.27 agrees with high precision with the prediction of one of the Skyrme EoS [1]. The variant giving the second best fit with parameters M ~ 2.12Mʘ and a ~ 0.20 agrees with lower precision with the prediction of the Gandolfi EoS [2].
Netrin-G/NGL Complexes Encode Functional Synaptic Diversification
Authors: Matsukawa Hiroshi , Akiyoshi-Nishimura Sachiko , Zhang Qi , Luján Rafael , Yamaguchi Kazuhiko , Goto Hiromichi , Yaguchi Kunio , Hashikawa Tsutomu , Sano Chie , Shigemoto Ryuichi , Nakashiba Toshiaki , Itohara Shigeyoshi
Published: November 2014

Synaptic cell adhesion molecules are increasingly gaining attention for conferring specific properties to individual synapses. Netrin-G1 and netrin-G2 aretrans-synaptic adhesion molecules that distribute on distinct axons, and their presence restricts the expression of their cognate receptors, NGL1 and NGL2, respectively, to specific subdendritic segments of target neurons. However, the neural circuits and functional roles of netrin-G isoform complexes remain unclear. Here, we use netrin-G-KO and NGL-KO mice to reveal that netrin-G1/NGL1 and netrin-G2/NGL2 interactions specify excitatory synapses in independent hippocampal pathways. In the hippocampal CA1 area, netrin-G1/NGL1 and netrin-G2/NGL2 were expressed in the temporoammonic and Schaffer collateral pathways, respectively. The lack of presynaptic netrin-Gs led to the dispersion of NGLs from postsynaptic membranes. In accord, netrin-G mutant synapses displayed opposing phenotypes in long-term and short-term plasticity through discrete biochemical pathways. The plasticity phenotypes in netrin-G-KOs were phenocopied in NGL-KOs, with a corresponding loss of netrin-Gs from presynaptic membranes. Our findings show that netrin-G/NGL interactions differentially control synaptic plasticity in distinct circuits via retrograde signaling mechanisms and explain how synaptic inputs are diversified to control neuronal activity.
Regulation of Experience-Dependent Bidirectional Chemotaxis by a Neural Circuit Switch inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Satoh Yohsuke , Sato Hirofumi , Kunitomo Hirofumi , Fei Xianfeng , Hashimoto Koichi , Iino Yuichi
Published: November 2014

The nematodeCaenorhabditis eleganschanges its chemotaxis to NaCl depending on previous experience. At the behavioral level, this chemotactic plasticity is generated by reversing the elementary behaviors for chemotaxis, klinotaxis, and klinokinesis. Here, we report that bidirectional klinotaxis is achieved by the proper use of at least two different neural subcircuits. We simulated an NaCl concentration change by activating an NaCl-sensitive chemosensory neuron in phase with head swing and successfully induced klinotaxis-like curving. The curving direction reversed depending on preconditioning, which was consistent with klinotaxis plasticity under a real concentration gradient. Cell-specific ablation and activation of downstream interneurons revealed that ASER-evoked curving toward lower concentration was mediated by AIY interneurons, whereas curving to the opposite direction was not. These results suggest that the experience-dependent bidirectionality of klinotaxis is generated by a switch between different neural subcircuits downstream of the chemosensory neuron.
Dissociating Movement from Movement Timing in the Rat Primary Motor Cortex
Authors: Knudsen Eric B. , Powers Marissa E. , Moxon Karen A.
Published: November 2014

Neural encoding of the passage of time to produce temporally precise movements remains an open question. Neurons in several brain regions across different experimental contexts encode estimates of temporal intervals by scaling their activity in proportion to the interval duration. In motor cortex the degree to which this scaled activity relies upon afferent feedback and is guided by motor output remains unclear. Using a neural reward paradigm to dissociate neural activity from motor output before and after complete spinal transection, we show that temporally scaled activity occurs in the rat hindlimb motor cortex in the absence of motor output and after transection. Context-dependent changes in the encoding are plastic, reversible, and re-established following injury. Therefore, in the absence of motor output and despite a loss of afferent feedback, thought necessary for timed movements, the rat motor cortex displays scaled activity during a broad range of temporally demanding tasks similar to that identified in other brain regions.
Differential Effects of Delayed Aging on Phenotype and Striatal Pathology in a Murine Model of Huntington Disease
Authors: Tallaksen-Greene Sara J. , Sadagurski Marianna , Zeng Li , Mauch Roseanne , Perkins Matthew , Banduseela Varuna C. , Lieberman Andrew P. , Miller Richard A. , Paulson Henry L. , Albin Roger L.
Published: November 2014

The common neurodegenerative syndromes exhibit age-related incidence, and many Mendelian neurodegenerative diseases exhibit age-related penetrance. Mutations slowing aging retard age related pathologies. To assess whether delayed aging retards the effects of a mutant allele causing a Huntington's disease (HD)-like syndrome, we generated compound mutant mice, placing a dominant HD knock-in polyglutamine allele onto the slow-aging Snell dwarf genotype. The Snell genotype did not affect mutant huntingtin protein expression. Bigenic and control mice were evaluated prospectively from 10 to 100 weeks of age. Adult HD knock-in allele mice lost weight progressively with weight loss blunted significantly in male bigenic HD knock-in/Snell dwarf mice. Impaired balance beam performance developed significantly more slowly in bigenic HD knock-in/Snell dwarf mice. Striatal dopamine receptor expression was diminished significantly and similarly in all HD-like mice, regardless of the Snell genotype. Striatal neuronal intranuclear inclusion burden was similar between HD knock-in mice with and without the Snell genotype, whereas nigral neuropil aggregates were diminished in bigenic HD knock-in/Snell dwarf mice. Compared with control mice, Snell dwarf mice exhibited differences in regional benzodiazepine and cannabinoid receptor binding site expression. These results indicate that delaying aging delayed behavioral decline with little effect on the development of striatal pathology in this model of HD but may have altered synaptic pathology. These results indicate that mutations prolonging lifespan in mice delay onset of significant phenotypic features of this model and also demonstrate dissociation between striatal pathology and a commonly used behavioral measure of disease burden in HD models.
Prox1 Regulates Olig2 Expression to Modulate Binary Fate Decisions in Spinal Cord Neurons
Authors: Kaltezioti Valeria , Antoniou Daphne , Stergiopoulos Athanasios , Rozani Ismini , Rohrer Hermann , Politis Panagiotis K.
Published: November 2014

Specification of spinal cord neurons depends on gene regulation networks that impose distinct fates in neural progenitor cells (NPCs). Olig2 is a key transcription factor in these networks by inducing motor neuron (MN) specification and inhibiting interneuron identity. Despite the critical role of Olig2 in nervous system development and cancer progression, the upstream molecular mechanisms that controlOlig2gene transcription are not well understood. Here we demonstrate that Prox1, a transcription repressor and downstream target of proneural genes, suppressesOlig2expression and therefore controls ventral spinal cord patterning. In particular, Prox1 is strongly expressed in V2 interneuron progenitors and largely excluded from Olig2+ MN progenitors (pMN). Gain- and loss-of-function studies in mouse NPCs and chick neural tube show that Prox1 is sufficient and necessary for the suppression ofOlig2expression and proper control of MN versus V2 interneuron identity. Mechanistically, Prox1 interacts with the regulatory elements ofOlig2gene locusin vivoand it is critical for properOlig2transcription regulation. Specifically, chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis in the mouse neural tube showed that endogenous Prox1 directly binds to the proximal promoter of theOlig2gene locus, as well as to the K23 enhancer, which drivesOlig2expression in the pMN domain. Moreover, plasmid-based transcriptional assays in mouse NPCs suggest that Prox1 suppresses the activity ofOlig2gene promoter and K23 enhancer. These observations indicate that Prox1 controls binary fate decisions between MNs and V2 interneurons in NPCs via direct repression ofOlig2gene regulatory elements.
Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cell-Intrinsic Effect of Rheb1 Controls Differentiation and Mediates mTORC1-Dependent Myelination in Brain
Authors: Zou Yi , Jiang Wanxiang , Wang Jianqing , Li Zhongping , Zhang Junyan , Bu Jicheng , Zou Jia , Zhou Liang , Yu Shouyang , Cui Yiyuan , Yang Weiwei , Luo Liping , Lu Qing R. , Liu Yanhui , Chen Mina , Worley Paul F. , Xiao Bo
Published: November 2014

Rheb1is an immediate early gene that functions to activate mammalian target of rapamycin (mTor) selectively in complex 1 (mTORC1). We have demonstrated previously that Rheb1 is essential for myelination in the CNS using aNestin-Credriver line that deletesRheb1in all neural cell lineages, and recent studies using oligodendrocyte-specificCNP-Crehave suggested a preferential role for mTORC1 is myelination in the spinal cord. Here, we examine the role of Rheb1/mTORC1 in mouse oligodendrocyte lineage using separate Cre drivers for oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) includingOlig1-CreandOlig2-Creas well as differentiated and mature oligodendrocytes includingCNP-Cre and Tmem10-Cre. Deletion ofRheb1in OPCs impairs their differentiation to mature oligodendrocytes. This is accompanied by reduced OPC cell-cycle exit suggesting a requirement for Rheb1 in OPC differentiation. The effect of Rheb1 on OPC differentiation is mediated by mTor sinceOlig1-Credeletion ofmTorphenocopiesOlig1-Cre Rheb1deletion. Deletion ofRheb1in mature oligodendrocytes, in contrast, does not disrupt developmental myelination or myelin maintenance. Loss ofRheb1in OPCs or neural progenitors does not affect astrocyte formation in gray and white matter, as indicated by the pan-astrocyte marker Aldh1L1. We conclude that OPC-intrinsic mTORC1 activity mediated by Rheb1 is critical for differentiation of OPCs to mature oligodendrocytes, but that mature oligodendrocytes do not require Rheb1 to make myelin or maintain it in the adult brain. These studies reveal mechanisms that may be relevant for both developmental myelination and impaired remyelination in myelin disease.