bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A prospective survey of cases of complications of induced abortion presenting to Goroka hospital, Papua New Guinea, 2011
Authors: Asa Isaac , de Costa Caroline , Mola Glen
Published: June 2012

Induced abortion on demand or for socio‐economic indications is illegal in Papua New Guinea under the 1974 Criminal Code. Nevertheless, the procedure is known to be widely practised. This prospective study examines the demographic and medical features of women presenting with complications of induced abortion to Goroka Hospital in a 6‐month period. It was noted that abortion was most commonly induced using the synthetic prostaglandin analogue misoprostol. Although illegal induced abortion cannot be condoned, it appears that misoprostol, much safer in this context than mechanical or traditional herbal methods, is now being widely used for the purpose of induced abortion in Papua New Guinea, as it is in other developing countries.
Does obesity really matter? The impact of BMI on embryo quality and pregnancy outcomes after IVF in women aged ≤38 years
Authors: Zander‐Fox Deirdre L. , Henshaw Richard , Hamilton Hamish , Lane Michelle
Published: June 2012

Background

The increasing prevalence of obesity in women of child‐bearing age is of growing concern in the health community. Obesity is associated with sub‐optimal reproductive performance; therefore, it is understandable that the number of young women with elevated body mass index (BMI) accessing assisted reproductive treatment (ART) is on the rise. Consequently, this study not only assessed the impact of BMI on fertilisation rates, embryo development and freezing during ART in women aged ≤38 years but also determined their subsequent pregnancy and delivery rates.

Methods

Data were retrospectively analysed from all cycles initiated in 2006/2007 for women aged ≤38 years. The BMI categorisations were as follows: normal – 18.5–24.9 kg/m2; overweight – 25–29.9 kg/m2; obese – 30–34.9 kg/m2; morbidly obese class I – 35–39.9 kg/m2; morbidly obese class П –≥40 kg/m2.

Results

Obese and morbidly obese women required a significantly higher follicle stimulating hormone start dose than normal BMI women; however, they obtained significantly fewer oocytes (P < 0.05). Although BMI did not affect embryo development, morbidly obese class Π women had significantly reduced pregnancy rates compared to normal BMI women (30.5 vs 41.7%, respectively; P < 0.05). Furthermore, increasing BMI was positively correlated to increasing rates of preterm delivery (P < 0.05). Increasing BMI was also positively correlated to increasing delivery rates of singleton term macrosomic offspring (≥4000 g).

Conclusion

Obesity in women aged≤38 years does not affect embryo development; however, it does reduce clinical pregnancy rates in women with a BMI≥40 and increases rates of preterm labour and delivery of macrosomic offspring.
The Diagnosis of Tuberculosis in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Richardson Robert M. A.
Published: June 2012

Tuberculosis is an important issue for nephrologists caring for dialysis patients. Because dialysis patients are immunocompromised, they are at higher risk for reactivation of latent tuberculosis, and they frequently have atypical presentation. Furthermore, hemodialysis units may foster rapid spread of active pulmonary tuberculosis. The diagnosis of active pulmonary tuberculosis still depends on detection of organisms by smear and culture. Newer nucleic acid detection techniques are more sensitive and specific. Nephrologists should remember that nonspecific presentation of tuberculosis including fever, weight loss, and adenopathy are more common in dialysis patients than in the general population, and diagnosis may require biopsy of extrapulmonary tissue. Detection of latent tuberculosis in dialysis patients should only be undertaken if treatment is planned. Generally, this should apply only to potential transplant candidates and younger dialysis patients with longer life expectancy. Tuberculin skin test is very insensitive in dialysis patients, and false‐positives occur in patients born in countries where Bacillus Calmette‐Guérin vaccine has been used. Blood tests using stimulation of gamma interferon have been shown to be more sensitive tests of latent tuberculosis and may be used in conjunction with tuberculin skin tests.
Human herpesvirus 6 and 7 in febrile status epilepticus: The FEBSTAT study
Authors: Epstein Leon G. , Shinnar Shlomo , Hesdorffer Dale C. , Nordli Douglas R. , Hamidullah Aaliyah , Benn Emma K. T. , Pellock John M. , Frank L. Matthew , Lewis Darrell V. , Moshe Solomon L. , Shinnar Ruth C. , Sun Shumei ,   the FEBSTAT study team
Published: June 2012

Purpose:  In a prospective study, Consequences of Prolonged Febrile Seizures in Childhood (FEBSTAT), we determined the frequency of human herpesvirus (HHV)‐6 and HHV‐7 infection as a cause of febrile status epilepticus (FSE).

Methods:  Children ages 1 month to 5 years presenting with FSE were enrolled within 72 h and received a comprehensive assessment including specimens for HHV‐6 and HHV‐7. The presence of HHV‐6A, HHV‐6B, or HHV‐7 DNA and RNA (amplified across a spliced junction) determined using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) at baseline indicated viremia. Antibody titers to HHV‐6 and HHV‐7 were used in conjunction with the PCR results to distinguish primary infection from reactivated or prior infection

Key Findings:  Of 199 children evaluated, HHV‐6 or HHV‐7 status could be determined in 169 (84.9%). HHV‐6B viremia at baseline was found in 54 children (32.0%), including 38 with primary infection and 16 with reactivated infection. No HHV‐6A infections were identified. HHV‐7 viremia at baseline was observed in 12 children (7.1%), including eight with primary infection and four with reactivated infection. Two subjects had HHV‐6/HHV‐7 primary coinfection at baseline. There were no differences in age, characteristics of illness or fever, seizure phenomenology or the proportion of acute EEG or imaging abnormalities in children presenting with FSE with or without HHV infection.

Significance:  HHV‐6B infection is commonly associated with FSE. HHV‐7 infection is less frequently associated with FSE. Together, they account for one third of FSE, a condition associated with an increased risk of both hippocampal injury and subsequent temporal lobe epilepsy.
Higher Levels of Hair Ethyl Glucuronide in Patients with Decreased Kidney Function
Authors: Høiseth Gudrun , Morini Luca , Ganss Rudiger , Nordal Kristin , Mørland Jørg
Published: June 2012

Background

Hair levels of ethyl glucuronide (EtG) are often used to differentiate social drinking from heavy drinking. Patients with decreased kidney function have delayed excretion of EtG, and increased incorporation into hair could be suspected. The aim of this study was to compare hair EtG levels in patients with decreased kidney function to those seen in healthy volunteers.

Methods

Twelve patients with renal disease were included. The levels of EtG in hair were adjusted to estimated daily intake of ethanol (EDI) and compared to 21 previously published healthy individuals.

Results

The levels of hair EtG in the 12 patients ranged between < limit of detection and 134 pg/mg, and the EDI ranged between 0.1 and 12 g. The levels of EtG in hair were significantly higher in the patients compared to healthy volunteers (p = 0.009).

Conclusions

These preliminary results indicate that hair levels of EtG in a population of patients with decreased kidney function should be interpreted with caution.
House Search Duration in Hot and Cold Residential Markets
Authors: Chernobai Ekaterina , Hossain Tarique
Published: June 2012

This study analyzes the determinants of house search duration of consumption‐driven buyers and individual investors in different housing market environments. We use data from surveys of recent house‐buyers in “hot” and “cold” housing markets in the 2000s housing bubble in California characterized by rising and declining residential house prices, respectively. The average house price and the surveyed geographical area are the same for both periods. Expected house ownership horizon is shown to be an important determinant of the realized search duration in addition to commonly considered housing and buyer characteristics. We find a statistically significant positive effect of it on the time until purchase in both housing price environments for consumption‐driven buyers. We also find that consumption‐driven house purchases were highly pronounced in coastal areas in the hot market and inland areas in the cold market. In contrast, long‐horizon investment activity leads that of consumption activity in those areas. Short‐horizon investors, on the other hand, concentrated their house search activity in inland areas in both housing market environments.
Assessment of Left Ventricular Hemodynamics and Function of Patients with Uremia by Vortex Formation Using Vector Flow Mapping
Authors: Chen Ran , Zhao Bo‐Wen , Wang Bei , Tang Hai‐Lin , Li Peng , Pan Mei , Xu Li‐Long
Published: June 2012

A novel echocardiographic method, vector flow mapping (VFM), acquires velocity vector from color Doppler velocity data. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether VFM could provide useful information on intracardiac flow and helpful to evaluate left ventricular (LV) function. Thirty‐eight patients with uremia undergoing hemodialysis and 30 healthy volunteers were enrolled. The maximum vector velocity, maximum diameter and duration of the intracardiac vortex were measured using VFM software during systole and diastole. The maximum vector velocity of the vortex and the peak velocities at the basal septum and lateral mitral annulus measured by tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) were correlated. The maximum diameter and duration of vortex formation were significantly higher in uremic patients compared with the control group during the ejection phase (40.6 ± 7.9 cm/sec vs. 28.1 ± 3.9 cm/sec; 297.1 ± 22.1 msec vs. 145.4 ± 19.3 msec, all P < 0.001). The maximal diameters of the vortex were higher in uremic patients compared with the control group during diastole (25.6 ± 3.4 mm vs. 16.4 ± 2.1 mm; 34.3 ± 3.1 mm vs. 26.8 ± 3.9 mm; 37.5 ± 2.4 mm vs. 20.9 ± 2.1 mm; all P < 0.001). The maximum vector velocities were lower in mid‐diastole and late diastole (23.6 ± 2.3 cm/sec vs. 45.2 ± 3.7 cm/sec; 31.9 ± 2.9 cm/sec vs. 54.7 ± 3.2 cm/sec, all P < 0.001). There was a correlation between the maximum vector velocity of the vortex in mid‐diastole and E'/A' at the septum and lateral mitral annulus (r = 0.70, r = 0.76, P < 0.001). Vortex can be utilized to provide intracardiac dynamic information using VFM and it may be a good supplement for evaluating LV function.
Feasibility of Bidimensional Speckle‐Tracking Echocardiography for Strain Analysis in Consecutive Patients in Daily Clinical Practice
Authors: Villanueva‐Fernández Elena , Ruiz‐Ortiz Martin , Mesa‐Rubio Dolores , Ortega Mónica‐Delgado , Romo‐Peñas Elias , Toledano‐Delgado Francisco , López‐Aguilera José , Cejudo‐Diaz del Campo Laura , Suárez de Lezo‐Cruz Conde José
Published: June 2012

Purpose: We aimed to analyze the feasibility of two‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) in evaluating myocardial strain in consecutive, nonselected patients in daily clinical practice. Methods: Strain analysis using 2DSTE was attempted in 59 consecutive patients: 24 patients with severe aortic stenosis, 28 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy, and 7 healthy controls. The analysis was done by four expert echocardiographers and one cardiology resident. Results: It was possible to obtain reliable data for radial strain in 175 of 354 segments (49%), circumferential strain in 192 of 354 segments (54%), and longitudinal strain in 319 of 354 segments (90%). Experienced echocardiographers felt assessment of radial and circumferential strain was appropriate in more segments than did the cardiology resident (57% and 58% vs. 23% and 40%, respectively, P < 0.01). Conclusion: Longitudinal strain analysis with 2DSTE is feasible in most segments, but the radial and circumferential strain evaluation was only feasible in approximately half of the patients.
A Plump and Fatty Heart: Isolated Left Ventricular Apical Hypoplasia
Authors: Tumabiene Kristine D. , Magpali Adriano E. , Chiong Lowe , Jara Raul D. , Abarquez Ramon F. , Abelardo Nelson S.
Published: June 2012

Isolated left ventricular apical hypoplasia is a newly recognized type of cardiomyopathy, with only a few cases reported since it was first described in 2004. We report this case of a 21‐year‐old Filipino female presenting with unstable supraventricular arrhythmia and heart failure, with characteristic features of isolated left ventricular apical hypoplasia on echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. To our knowledge, this is the first reported adult case in Asia.
The Impact of Preload Alteration on the Myocardial Performance Index through Implementing Positive End Expiratory Pressure
Authors: Kiani Abdolrazagh , Shabanian Reza , Seifirad Soroush , Heidari‐Bateni Giv , Rekabi Mahsa , Shahbaznejad Leila , Dastmalchi Reza , Kocharian Armen
Published: June 2012

Load independent methods should be used for the assessment of ventricular function. Debate still exists regarding whether tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) indices are influenced by preload. Here, we evaluated the effect of positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) related preload reduction on both conventional pulsed Doppler (PD) and TDI myocardial performance index (MPI). Thirty‐eight mechanically ventilated patients of 3 months to 12 years old (mean ± SD age of 30 ± 11months) without overt heart disease were enrolled. Doppler mitral inflow velocities, isovolumetric contraction and relaxation times and aortic ejection time in addition to TDI peak systolic, early and late diastolic velocities from the basal segment of left ventricular lateral wall were determined for each patient before and after applying high PEEP (10 cmH2O).PD‐MPI was load dependent (0.61 ± 0.22 vs. 0.78 ± 0.25, P = 0.002). However, TDI‐MPI did not significantly change after the use of high PEEP declining the left ventricular volume loading (0.78 ± 0.21 vs. 0.84 ± 0.22, P = 0.23). Hence, regarding various interfering pathophysiologic factors particularly preload reduction, it seems that TDI‐MPI would be a more reliable index for the assessment of ventricular function.
Left Atrial Function during Pregnancy: A Three‐Dimensional Echocardiographic Study
Authors: Yosefy Chaim , Shenhav Simon , Feldman Viktor , Sagi Yair , Katz Amos , Anteby Eyal
Published: June 2012

Background: Alteration of diastolic function is considered a sensitive means for detecting changes in the normal cardiac adaptation to pregnancy. Our aim was to evaluate volumetric and functional atrial parameters, using real time three‐dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE) in women in early and late third trimester of pregnancy. Methods: We studied pregnant women in early third trimester (III‐E = gestational age 26–33 weeks), in late third trimester (III‐L = gestational age 34–40 weeks), and control nonpregnant women (C). Two‐dimensional (2D‐Echo) and RT3DE were used to study 3D left atrial (LA) systolic and diastolic stroke volumes and index (LASVI, LAEDVI), emptying fraction, left ventricular and LA cavities. Results: Although the LA end systolic volume index increased significantly (from 19.42 ± 0.1 to 24.7 ± 3.5 mm2, P < 0.01), the EF did not change significantly. This was mainly achieved by increasing atrial contraction (A‐wave), maintaining cardiac output by increasing heart rate. A decrease in diastolic E‐wave, increased atrial kick (A‐wave) with reduced E/A ratio, was noted as the pregnancy progressed. Pulmonary pressure increased from 16.9 ± 6.6 to 20.5 ± 2.9 mmHg (P < 0.01), Using 2D‐Echo revealed no change in LA diameter from control to III‐E and III‐L, respectively (from 17.1 ± 2.3 to 16.7 ± 2.6, 17.5 ± 2.2 mm) and area (from 11.7 ± 3.1 to 16.5 ± 2.3, 17.6 ± 1.6 cm2). However, using RT3DE, a significant increase in the LASVI, LAEDVI, and LA stroke volume index (from 12.02 ± 2.5 to 14.7 ± 3.2, and 15.1 ± 2.7 mL/m2) was detected. Conclusions: Enlargement of the LA volume with unchanged blood pressure values, as found using RT3DE, may be part of the adaptation to increased blood volume during pregnancy.
The Fate of Organic Sources of Carbon in Moss‐rich Tundra Soil Microbial Communities: A Laboratory Experimental Study
Authors: Anderson O. R.
Published: June 2012

Effects of glucose‐carbon supplementation on soil respiration and bacterial and protist biomass were investigated in laboratory studies of three soil samples from Alaskan tundra: spring tussock sample 1 (thin surface moss), spring tussock sample 2 (thick surface moss), and a summer tundra open field sample. Addition of 1% (w/v) glucose solution produced an immediate, pronounced two to three fold increase in respiration above basal rate, which declined over 4 h to baseline levels. Less than 1% (w/w) of glucose‐C supplement was respired during the respiratory spike, relative to the 89 μg/g added. A more substantial amount of the glucose‐C became incorporated in microbial biomass. The total difference in microbial carbon (μg/g) between the experimental treatments and controls without glucose after 1 wk was as follows: spring sample 1 (8), spring sample 2 (31), and summer sample (70). The percent (w/w) of glucose‐C incorporated was: spring sample 1 (5%), spring sample 2 (17%), and summer sample (39%), most attributed to biomass of bacteria and heterotrophic nanoflagellates. Although respiratory response to pulsed glucose‐C was minimal, the overall mean basal rate after 1 wk ranged between 4 and 6 nmol/min/g soil, indicating a significant assimilation and respiration of constituent soil organic carbon.
Herbivore egg deposition induces tea leaves to arrest the egg‐larval parasitoid Ascogaster reticulata
Authors: Deshpande Sujata A. , Kainoh Yooichi
Published: June 2012

Plants are able to activate direct and indirect defences against egg deposition by herbivorous insects. A known indirect defence is the production of synomones to help egg‐ and egg‐larval parasitoids to locate their hosts. The wasp Ascogaster reticulata Watanabe (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a solitary egg‐larval parasitoid of the moth Adoxophyes honmai Yasuda (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), which lays eggs and feeds as caterpillars on the leaves of the tea plant Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze (Theaceae). Here, we studied whether or not oviposition by A. honmai induces tea plants to produce synomones that help the parasitoid to locate its host. An olfactometer bioassay suggested that synomones produced by the infested plants did not attract the parasitoid over a short range. However, a contact bioassay showed that tea leaves were induced to arrest the parasitoid 24 h after egg deposition and remained induced until the host‐egg masses were no more attractive to the parasitoids. Wing scales and deposits of adult moths and the contents of the egg masses did not induce the tea leaves to arrest the parasitoid, but the contents of the female moth's reproductive system did. Synomone induction was systemic: uninfested leaves in the vicinity of egg‐laden leaves also arrested the parasitoid.
Differential acceptance of and survivorship on a non‐host plant between two geographically separate populations of the phytophagous ladybird beetle Henosepilachna yasutomii
Authors: Matsubayashi Kei W. , Katakura Haruo
Published: June 2012

Phytophagous specialists among insects occasionally accept plants they do not or only rarely utilize under natural conditions. This non‐host acceptance could represent an initial stage in host‐range evolution. Here, we examined adult acceptance of and larval survivorship on a non‐host plant – wild thistle, Cirsium kamtschaticum Ledeb. (Asteraceae) – for two geographically separate populations of the phytophagous ladybird beetle Henosepilachna yasutomii Katakura (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), which normally utilizes blue cohosh, Caulophyllum robustum Maxim. (Berberidaceae), in the wild. The two beetle populations showed lower acceptance of and survivorship on the non‐host plant (thistle) than on the normal host plant (blue cohosh). Furthermore, they differed significantly in their responses to thistle but not to blue cohosh. Even for the beetle population that more readily accepted thistle as adults, acceptance was moderate and the eclosion rate was low, indicating reduced performance on the non‐host plant. Although studies have infrequently focused on non‐host acceptance, this is likely common in phytophagous specialists and thus is a potentially important evolutionary factor, as it may determine the future direction of food‐range evolution.
Monocytic microparticles promote atherogenesis by modulating inflammatory cells in mice
Authors: Hoyer Friedrich Felix , Giesen Meike Kristin , Nunes França Carolina , Lütjohann Dieter , Nickenig Georg , Werner Nikos
Published: June 2012

Microparticles (MP) are generated during a vast number of biological processes such as inflammation, cell activation and apoptosis. Increasing evidence points towards an important role of MP as intercellular messengers of biological information. During atherogenesis, monocytes infiltrate the vascular wall and foster inflammation, accompanied by the release of monocytic MP (mono‐MP). To date, only little is known about the biological function of mono‐MP in the vascular wall. Here, we investigated the role of mono‐MP during atherogenesis. Mono‐MP were generated by starvation of THP‐1 monocytes and isolated by ultracentrifugation. To investigate whether mono‐MP influence atherogenesis, ApoE−/− mice were fed a high‐fat, cholesterol‐rich diet for 8 weeks and simultaneously treated with mono‐MP or vehicle twice a week. Mice treated with mono‐MP showed significantly increased monocyte and T‐cell infiltration into the vessel wall, as assessed by Moma‐2 and CD3 staining, and enhanced plaque formation, as assessed by oil‐red‐O staining. However, atherosclerotic plaque composition was not influenced by mono‐MP application. In vitro, incubation of mono‐MP with murine macrophages and endothelial cells resulted in the uptake of calcein‐labelled mono‐MP. Mono‐MP uptake initiated the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species. Murine macrophages pre‐treated with mono‐MP showed significantly enhanced expression of CCR2, migration to MCP‐1 and increased release of pro‐inflammatory interleukin‐6. Co‐incubation of mono‐MP with endothelial cells resulted in significantly increased expression of ICAM‐1, as assessed by RT‐PCR and ELISA. Mono‐MP act as paracrine messengers that intensify inflammation during atherogenesis by stimulating vascular‐bound and inflammatory cells in their vicinity.
Fluoxetine induces vasodilatation of cerebral arterioles by co‐modulating NO/muscarinic signalling
Authors: Ofek Keren , Schoknecht Karl , Melamed‐Book Naomi , Heinemann Uwe , Friedman Alon , Soreq Hermona
Published: June 2012

Ischaemic stroke patients treated with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) show improved motor, cognitive and executive functions, but the underlying mechanism(s) are incompletely understood. Here, we report that cerebral arterioles in the rat brain superfused with therapeutically effective doses of the SSRI fluoxetine showed consistent, dose‐dependent vasodilatation (by 1.2 to 1.6‐fold), suppressible by muscarinic and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) antagonists [atropine, NG‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME)] but resistant to nicotinic and serotoninergic antagonists (mecamylamine, methylsergide). Fluoxetine administered 10–30 min. following experimental vascular photo‐thrombosis increased arterial diameter (1.3–1.6), inducing partial, but lasting reperfusion of the ischaemic brain. In brain endothelial b.End.3 cells, fluoxetine induced rapid muscarinic receptor‐dependent increases in intracellular [Ca2+] and promoted albumin‐ and eNOS‐dependent nitric oxide (NO) production and HSP90 interaction. In vitro, fluoxetine suppressed recombinant human acetylcholinesterase (rhAChE) activity only in the presence of albumin. That fluoxetine induces vasodilatation of cerebral arterioles suggests co‐promotion of endothelial muscarinic and nitric oxide signalling, facilitated by albumin‐dependent inhibition of serum AChE.
Intrapleural delivery of MSCs attenuates acute lung injury by paracrine/endocrine mechanism
Authors: Qin Zhao‐hui , Xu Jin‐fu , Qu Jie‐ming , Zhang Jing , Sai Yin , Chen Chun‐mei , Wu Lian , Yu Long
Published: June 2012

Two different repair mechanisms of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are suggested to participate in the repair of acute lung injury (ALI): (i) Cell engraftment mechanism, (ii) Paracrine/endocrine mechanism. However, the exact roles they play in the repair remain unclear. The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of paracrine/endocrine mechanism using a novel intrapleural delivery method of MSCs. Either 1 × 106 MSCs in 300 μl of PBS or 300 μl PBS alone were intrapleurally injected into rats with endotoxin‐induced ALI. On days 1, 3 or 7 after injections, samples of lung tissues and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were collected from each rat for assessment of lung injury, biochemical analysis and histology. The distribution of MSCs was also traced by labelling the cells with 4′,6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole dihydrochloride (DAPI). MSCs intrapleural injection significantly improved LPS‐induced lung histopathology compared with PBS‐treated group at day 3. There was also a significant decrease in total cell counts and protein concentration in BALF at day 7 in the MSCs ‐treated rats compared to PBS control group. Tracking the DAPI‐marked MSCs showed that there were no exotic MSCs in the lung parenchyma. MSCs administration resulted in a down‐regulation of pro‐inflammatory response to endotoxin by reducing TNF‐α both in the BALF and in the lung, while up‐regulating the anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐10 in the lung. In conclusion, treatment with intrapleural MSCs administration markedly attenuates the severity of endotoxin‐induced ALI. This role is mediated by paracrine/endocrine repair mechanism of MSCs rather than by the cell engraftment mechanism.
The efficacy of virtual reality simulation training in laparoscopy: a systematic review of randomized trials
Authors: LARSEN CHRISTIAN RIFBJERG , OESTERGAARD JEANETT , OTTESEN BENT S. , SOERENSEN JETTE LED
Published: June 2012

Background. Virtual reality (VR) simulators for surgical training might possess the properties needed for basic training in laparoscopy. Evidence for training efficacy of VR has been investigated by research of varying quality over the past decade. Objective. To review randomized controlled trials regarding VR training efficacy compared with traditional or no training, with outcome measured as surgical performance in humans or animals. Data sources. In June 2011 Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science and Google Scholar were searched using the following medical subject headings (MeSh) terms: Laparoscopy/standards, Computing methodologies, Programmed instruction, Surgical procedures, Operative, and the following free text terms: Virtual real* OR simulat* AND Laparoscop* OR train* Limits: Controlled trials. Study eligibility criteria. All randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of VR training in laparoscopy, with outcome measured as surgical performance. Methods. A total of 98 studies were screened, 26 selected and 12 included, with a total of 241 participants. Results. Operation time was reduced by 17–50% by VR training, depending on simulator type and training principles. Proficiency‐based training appeared superior to training based on fixed time or fixed numbers of repetition. Simulators offering training for complete operative procedures came out as more efficient than simulators offering only basic skills training. Conclusions. Skills in laparoscopic surgery can be increased by proficiency‐based procedural VR simulator training. There is substantial evidence (grade IA – IIB) to support the use of VR simulators in laparoscopic training.
Predation of threespine stickleback by dragonfly naiads
Authors: Lescak Emily A. , von Hippel Frank A. , Lohman Brian K. , Sherbick Mary L.
Published: June 2012

Threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) populations that have evolved pelvic girdle reduction are most commonly found in lakes with low dissolved ion concentration, a lack of piscivorous fishes and abundant macroinvertebrate predators. Researchers have speculated that macroinvertebrates have a propensity to consume prey with pelvic spines. If this is true, perhaps macroinvertebrates use the stickleback's spines to facilitate capture and manipulation. This study tested whether dragonfly naiads differentially prey upon stickleback possessing either a complete or reduced pelvis and documented naiad hunting and capturing behaviour. Results from an arena experiment suggest that naiads do not prey more heavily upon individuals with one pelvic phenotype over the other. However, results from trials where the naiads were presented with one stickleback with pelvic spines and another without suggest that naiads prey more heavily upon small stickleback with pelvic spines and large stickleback without pelvic spines and that they adjust their predatory behaviour based upon the pelvic phenotype of the prey.
A new methodology for evaluating the damage to the skin barrier caused by repeated application and removal of adhesive dressings
Authors: Waring Mike , Bielfeldt Stephan , Mätzold Katja , Wilhelm Klaus‐Peter
Published: June 2012

Background

Chronic wounds require frequent dressing changes. Adhesive dressings used for this indication can be damaging to the stratum corneum, particularly in the elderly where the skin tends to be thinner. Understanding the level of damage caused by dressing removal can aid dressing selection.

Methods

This study used a novel methodology that applied a stain to the skin and measured the intensity of that stain after repeated application and removal of a series of different adhesive types. Additionally, a traditional method of measuring skin barrier damage (transepidermal water loss) was also undertaken and compared with the staining methodology.

Results

The staining methodology and measurement of transepidermal water loss differentiated the adhesive dressings, showing that silicone adhesives caused least trauma to the skin.

Conclusion

The staining methodology was shown to be as effective as transepidermal water loss in detecting damage to the stratum corneum and was shown to detect disruption of the barrier earlier than the traditional technique.
Classification and distribution patterns of plant communities on Socotra Island, Yemen
Authors: De Sanctis Michele , Adeeb Achmed , Farcomeni Alessio , Patriarca Chiara , Saed Achmed , Attorre Fabio
Published: June 2012

Question

What are the main plant communities and vegetation zones on Socotra Island in relation to climatic, geological and topographic factors?

Location

Socotra Island (Yemen).

Methods

A total of 318 relevés were sampled along an altitudinal gradient. Floristic and environmental (topographic, geological and climatic) data were collected and analysed using numerical classification and NDMS ordination; an analysis of the correlation between plant communities and environmental factors was also performed.

Results

Eight types of woody vegetation, seven of shrubs, six of herbaceous and seven of halophytic vegetation were identified. Ordination revealed the importance of altitudinal and climatic gradients, as well as of geological substrata.

Conclusions

Four vegetation zones were identified. The first three are located in the arid region with altitude ranging from 0 to 1000 m and the fourth in the semi‐arid region from 1000 to 1500 m a.s.l. Specifically they are: (1) an arid coastal plain mainly located on an alluvial substratum between 0 and 200 m, characterized by shrubland and grassland communities; (2) a transition zone from 200 to 400 m, between the alluvial substratum and the upper limestone area; (3) an arid limestone zone between 400 and 1000 m, interspersed with hills and plateaus; and (4) a semi‐arid upper zone of the Haghier Mountains from 1000 to 1500 m on a granitic substratum.
Do goats preserve the forest? Evaluating the effects of grazing goats on combustible Mediterranean scrub
Authors: Mancilla‐Leytón J.M. , Pino Mejías R. , Martín Vicente A.
Published: June 2012

Question

Can grazing by goats eliminate potentially combustible plant biomass and thereby change the flammability of mediterranean vegetation?

Location

Doñana Natural Park, SW Spain.

Methods

The effect of goat grazing was evaluated, over a period of 42 mo, in 100 ha of pine forest understorey with an average density of 217 trees·ha−1. Grazing by large herbivores was halted temporarily in the study area, with wild deer excluded from 1970, and domestic goats excluded from 2002. However, following the creation of grazing exclusion plots and sampling of the vegetation within as a control, adult female Payoya goats were introduced to the area in spring 2007. Vegetation was sampled twice yearly using the point‐intercept method, and data of frequency, cover and phytovolume obtained. The study was completed with an analysis of change in the flammability of the study area (determined using data on the phytovolume and flammability of species). Changes in species richness and species diversity were determined.

Results

After 42 mo, the phytovolume of the ungrazed vegetation had increased significantly by 32%, while bare soil had decreased by 5%. This gave rise to a significant increase in flammability of 25%. Within the grazed area, species phytovolume decreased significantly by 34%, leading to a significant increase in bare soil of 51%, while the flammability of the area decreased by 22%. The number of species remained constant throughout the study at 20 species. Significant differences in species diversity were observed between grazed and ungrazed areas after 42 mo of grazing (species diversity index after 42 mo of exclusion = 1.59 ± 0.17, species diversity index after 42 mo of grazing = 0.95 ± 0.13).

Conclusions

Monitoring of the scrub understorey has shown the positive impact of grazing goats: the resulting decrease in the quantity of total phytovolume (easily combustible vegetation) induces changes in species diversity without lowering species richness and reduces the risk of fire.
A home‐based progressive resistance exercise programme for patients with venous leg ulcers: a feasibility study
Authors: O'Brien Jane , Edwards Helen , Stewart Ian , Gibbs Harry
Published: June 2012

This study aimed to assess the feasibility of a home‐based exercise programme and examine the effects on the healing rates of venous leg ulcers. A 12‐week randomised controlled trial was conducted investigating the effects of an exercise intervention compared to a usual care group. Participants in both groups (n = 13) had active venous ulceration and were treated in a metropolitan hospital outpatients clinic in Australia. Data were collected on recruitment from medical records, clinical assessment and questionnaires. Follow‐up data on progress in healing and treatments were collected fortnightly for 12 weeks. Calf muscle pump function data were collected at baseline and 12 weeks from recruitment. Range of ankle motion data were collected at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks from recruitment. This pilot study indicated that the intervention was feasible. Clinical significance was observed in the intervention group with a 32% greater decrease in ulcer size (P = 0·34) than the usual care group, and a 10% (P = 0·74) improvement in the number of participants healed in the intervention group compared to the usual care group. Significant differences between groups over time were observed in calf muscle pump function parameters [ejection fraction (P = 0·05), residual volume fraction (P = 0·04)] and range of ankle motion (P = 0·01). This pilot study is one of the first to examine and measure clinical healing rates for participants involved in a home‐based progressive resistance exercise programme. Further research is warranted with a larger multi‐site study.
Blood flow response in small intestinal loops at different depths during negative pressure wound therapy of the open abdomen
Authors: Lindstedt Sandra , Hlebowicz Joanna
Published: June 2012

High closure rates of the open abdomen have been reported following negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT). However, the method has occasionally been associated with increased development of intestinal fistulae. We have previously shown that the application of NPWT to the open abdomen causes a decrease in microvascular blood flow in the small intestinal loop and the omentum adjacent to the visceral protective layer of the dressing. In this study we investigate whether the negative pressure affects only small intestinal loops lying directly below the dressing or if it also affects small intestinal loops that are not in direct contact with the dressing. Six pigs underwent midline incision and application of NPWT to the open abdomen. The microvascular blood flow was measured in four intestinal loops at different depths from the visceral protective layer, at two different locations: beneath the dressing and at the anterior abdominal wall, before and after the application of NPWT of −50, −70, −100, −120, −150 and −170 mmHg, using laser Doppler velocimetry. Negative pressures between −50 and −170 mmHg caused a significant decrease in the microvascular blood flow in the intestinal loops in direct contact with the visceral protective layer. A slight, but significant, decrease in blood flow was also seen in the intestinal loops lying beneath these loops. The decrease in microvascular blood flow increased with the amount of negative pressure applied. No difference in blood flow was seen in the intestinal loops lying deeper in the abdominal cavity. A decrease in blood flow was seen in the upper two intestinal loops located apically and anteriorly, but not in the lower two, indicating that this is a local effect and that pressure decreases with distance from the source. A long‐term decrease in blood flow in the intestinal wall may induce ischaemia and secondary necrosis in the intestinal wall, which could promote the development of intestinal fistulae. We believe that NPWT of the open abdomen is a very effective treatment, but that it could be improved by gaining more knowledge on the mechanisms involved.
Air Services at Australian Cities: Change and Inertia 2005–2010
Authors: FUELLHART KURT , O'CONNOR KEVIN
Published: June 2012

This research analyses international and domestic air services in Australia during a six year period, 2005–2010. We place air services into their urban context by relating them to city‐based measures such as population, tourism, and producer services employment among other measures. The research takes a supply‐side approach in an assessment of international and domestic capacity at major Australian airports from the perspective of the number of seats, the nature of links, and competition. Multiple linkage analysis and the concept of effective competitors allow us to explore this perspective at greater depth. Our findings show substantial changes in international patterns, specifically favouring Melbourne, Perth, and Gold Coast. In contrast, the domestic scene is characterised by little change, an outcome we link to the underlying stability in the settlement system and the location of some major economic activities. While the results are related to our measures of urban characteristics, some special region‐specific aspects are also at work. Finally, in both the international and domestic cases we find evidence of greater airline diversity which may benefit consumers.
Determining the Accuracy of Historical Landscape Paintings
Authors: FARAG‐MILLER MADIHA , MILLER KEITH , KIRKPATRICK J B.
Published: June 2012

Historical landscape paintings are widely used to reconstruct past environments. However, artists did not necessarily fully depict reality, many exercising license to relocate and remould features. This paper applies photogrammetric techniques to the problem of determining the accuracy of artistic depictions of landscapes. Four 19th century paintings of Hobart, Tasmania, Australia by different artists were used to test the methods. The artists varied in their accuracy, with Frankland, the surveyor, being the most accurate, and Glover, the romantic professional artist, being the least accurate. This variation suggests that the use of paintings for historical reconstructions and measurements of historic features should be preceded by an accuracy assessment.
Wildlife Visual Imagery: Do Pictures Used to Promote Destinations Online Match On‐site Species Visibility at Two Geographic Destinations?
Authors: CASTLEY J. GUY , BENNETT ADELE , PICKERING CATHERINE M.
Published: June 2012

Diverse photographic images (pictures) are used to promote wildlife tours on the Internet. But what pictures are used and are they likely to accurately reflect what visitors might see, and hence create realistic expectations for tourists? The relative importance of wildlife and the prevalence of iconic species were assessed for pictures on the Internet used by six English tour companies offering wildlife tours to very different destinations: Southern Africa and Australia. These were then compared with the likely visibility of wildlife at the destination. The content of 926 Southern African pictures representing 1316 different subjects, and 228 pictures representing 307 different subjects from Australia were classified into four themes (wildlife, landscapes/vegetation, activities, accommodation). Wildlife, particularly large mammals, was more frequently used for Southern African tours (43%) whereas pictures for Australian tours were often of landscapes (45%). Large, social mammals active during the day and hence highly visible (e.g. elephant, n= 64) were often used, while iconic, but cryptic, species such as koalas (n= 7), Tasmanian devil (n= 1), leopards (n= 12), and black rhinos (n= 2) were seldom used. Therefore, online pictures used for wildlife tours appear to merge well with what tourists are likely to see at the destination, but appear to diverge somewhat from established destination images for these two regions, particularly Australia.
Contextualist Theories of Vagueness
Authors: Åkerman Jonas
Published: June 2012

During the last couple of decades, several attempts have been made to come up with a theory that can handle the various semantic, logical and philosophical problems raised by the vagueness of natural languages. One of the most influential ideas that have come into fashion in recent years is the idea that vagueness should be analysed as a form of context sensitivity. Such contextualist theories of vagueness have gained some popularity, but many philosophers have remained sceptical of the prospects of finding a tenable contextualist solution to the problems of vagueness. This paper provides an introduction to the most popular contextualist accounts, and a discussion of some of the most important arguments for and against them.
Impaired body but not face perception in patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Shin Na Young , Jang Joon Hwan , Kim Hee Sun , Shim Geumsook , Hwang Jae Yeon , Kim Sung Nyun , Kwon Jun Soo
Published: June 2012

Background. Empirical evidence involving the processing of social information by patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) has been relatively scarce. Our study investigated the perceptual abilities of patients with OCD to recognize human faces and bodies.

Method. Fifty‐four drug‐free or drug‐naïve patients with OCD and 42 healthy controls performed discrimination tasks consisting of four types of stimuli: two sets of faces that were manipulated with regard to configuration and features, human bodies, and chairs. The stimuli were presented in upright and upside‐down orientations.

Results. Patients with OCD were significantly less accurate in discriminating pairs of bodily postures implying actions. However, we found no significant differences between patient and control groups in the ability to recognize faces and chairs. The inversion effects for bodies and faces were also comparable between the two groups.

Conclusions. The current findings suggest that patients with OCD experience difficulty in perceiving static forms of bodily postures, but are able to adequately recognize human faces. Our data indicate a selective deficit in the perception of bodily postures in those with OCD and suggest that this deficit is probably not related to the abnormal configurational processing of social objects.
Communication Style Affects Physiological Response in Simulated Cancer Risk Reduction Interactions
Authors: REBLIN MAIJA , ELLINGTON LEE , LATIMER SETH , UCHINO BERT N. , ROTER DEBRA , MAXWELL AMIEE
Published: June 2012

Provider communication styles in health encounters have links to patient health outcomes. The Social Cognitive Processing Model (SCPM) is a framework to understand how communication facilitating processing may produce different outcomes than communication directing patient behavior. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the linkages between communication behaviors and patient outcomes. Participants engaged in simulated health care interviews with either a facilitative or directive provider. Heart rate (HR), skin conductance level (SCL), communication, and participant self‐report measures were analyzed. Compared with those communicating with directive providers, participants communicating with facilitative providers were more satisfied and had lower HR and SCL, indicating lowered stress response. Consistent with SCPM, findings have implications for improved processing, which may impact patient outcomes.
A new heterogeneous family of telomerically encoded Cryptosporidium proteins
Authors: Bouzid Maha , Hunter Paul R. , McDonald Vincent , Elwin Kristin , Chalmers Rachel M. , Tyler Kevin M.
Published: June 2012

Cryptosporidiosis is predominantly caused by two closely related species of protozoan parasites the zoonotic Cryptosporidium parvum and anthroponotic Cryptosporidium hominis which diverge phenotypically in respect to host range and virulence. Using comparative genomics we identified two genes displaying overt heterogeneity between species. Although initial work suggested both were species specific, Cops‐1 for C. parvum and Chos‐1 for C. hominis, subsequent study identified an abridged ortholog of Cops‐1 in C. hominis. Cops‐1 and Chos‐1 showed limited, but significant, similarity to each other and share common features: (i) telomeric location: Cops‐1 is the last gene on chromosome 2, whilst Chos‐1 is the first gene on chromosome 5, (ii) encode circa 50‐kDa secreted proteins with isoelectric points above 10, (iii) are serine rich, and (iv) contain internal nucleotide repeats. Importantly, Cops‐1 sequence contains specific SNPs with good discriminatory power useful epidemiologically. C. parvum‐infected patient sera recognized a 50‐kDa protein in antigen preparations of C. parvum but not C. hominis, consistent with Cops‐1 being antigenic for patients. Interestingly, anti‐Cops‐1 monoclonal antibody (9E1) stained oocyst content and sporozoite surface of C. parvum only. This study provides a new example of protozoan telomeres as rapidly evolving contingency loci encoding putative virulence factors.