bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppression of the melanogenesis and cellular antioxidant activity in B16 melanoma cells
Authors: Tsuda A. , Horigome S. , Yoshida I. , Yamaguchi A. , Kibune N. , Kamibe T. , Watai M. , Ozawa J. , Kume K.
Published: October 2010

The results of antioxidant activities by ORAC assay and CAA assay were evaluated for melanogenesis. Although the antioxidant activity by ORAC was not correlated with the melanogenesis, the samples which showed high antioxidant activity by CAA tended to suppress melanogenesis. Caffeic acid and Citrus depressa juice, which demonstrated inhibitory effects on mela‐nogenesis, had high antioxidant activities but no inhibitory effects on tyrosinase activity. In addition, they inhibited the melanogenesis which was increased by inhibition of catalase activity. These results may suggest that antioxidant activity by CAA can contribute to the suppression of melanogenesis in B16 melanoma.
Isolation and characterization of MAT genes in the symbiotic ascomycete Tuber melanosporum
Authors: Rubini Andrea , Belfiori Beatrice , Riccioni Claudia , Tisserant Emilie , Arcioni Sergio , Martin Francis , Paolocci Francesco
Published: October 2010

Featured paper: See also the Editorial by Martin
Desire in the face of death: Terror management, attachment, and sexual motivation
Authors: BIRNBAUM GURIT , HIRSCHBERGER GILAD , GOLDENBERG JAMIE
Published: October 2010

Four studies examined the impact of mortality salience (MS) on sexual motivation. In Studies 1–3, participants were primed with death‐related thoughts and then rated their desire to engage in sex in different contexts. Study 4 included an assessment of reasons for engaging in sex. Results showed that MS increased the desire for romantic sex, regardless of gender, and the desire for casual sex among more avoidant men. Sexual desire was fueled by distinct patterns of motives among highly anxious and avoidant people. These findings suggest that the variety of meanings sexual behavior has for different people may explain why, in some cases, sexual behavior may function as a defense against mortality concerns, whereas in other cases, it may exacerbate threat.
Vascular actions of calcimimetics: role of Ca2+‐sensing receptors versus Ca2+influx through L‐type Ca2+channels
Authors: Thakore Pratish , Ho W ‐S Vanessa
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The calcimimetic, (R)‐N‐(3‐(3‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)propyl)‐1‐(1‐napthyl)ethylamine hydrochloride (cinacalcet), which activates Ca2+‐sensing receptors (CaR) in parathyroid glands, is used to treat hyperparathyroidism. Interestingly, CaR in perivascular nerves or endothelial cells is also thought to modulate vascular tone. This study aims to characterize the vascular actions of calcimimetics.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

In rat isolated small mesenteric arteries, the relaxant responses to the calcimimetics, cinacalcet and (R)‐2‐[[[1‐(1‐naphthyl)ethyl]amino]methyl]‐1H‐indole hydrochloride (calindol) were characterized, with particular emphasis on the role of CaR, endothelium, perivascular nerves, K+channels and Ca2+channels. Effects of L‐ornithine, which activates a Ca2+‐sensitive receptor related to CaR (GPRC6A), were also tested.

KEY RESULTS

Cinacalcet induced endothelium‐independent relaxation (pEC505.58 ± 0.07, Emax97 ± 6%) that was insensitive to sensory nerve desensitization by capsaicin or blockade of large‐conductance Ca2+‐activated K+channels by iberiotoxin. Calindol, another calcimimetic, caused more potent relaxation (pEC506.10 ± 0.10, Emax101 ± 6%), which was attenuated by endothelial removal or capsaicin, but not iberiotoxin. The negative modulator of CaR, calhex 231 or changes in [Ca2+]ohad negligible effect on relaxation to both calcimimetics. The calcimimetics relaxed vessels precontracted with high [K+]oand inhibited Ca2+influx in endothelium‐denuded vessels stimulated by methoxamine, but not ionomycin. They also inhibited contractions to the L‐type Ca2+channel activator, BayK8644. L‐ornithine induced small relaxation alone and had no effect on the responses to calcimimetics.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Cinacalcet and calindol are potent arterial relaxants. Under the experimental conditions used, they predominantly act by inhibiting Ca2+influx through L‐type Ca2+channels into vascular smooth muscle, whereas Ca2+‐sensitive receptors (CaR or GPRC6A) play a minor role.
Long‐term follow‐up of Wilson Disease: natural history, treatment, mutations analysis and phenotypic correlation
Authors: Bruha Radan , Marecek Zdenek , Pospisilova Lenka , Nevsimalova Sona , Vitek Libor , Martasek Pavel , Nevoral Jiri , Petrtyl Jaromir , Urbanek Petr , Jiraskova Alena , Ferenci Peter
Published: October 2010

Background and aims: Wilson disease (WD) is an inherited disorder of copper metabolism. When treated, the outcome can be excellent, although the long‐term survival has yet to be well documented. The aim of this study was to describe the long‐term outcome of a cohort of patients with WD and to assess those factors affecting the phenotypic manifestation of WD.

Methods: The presence of mutations to the ATP7B gene, the clinical manifestations, treatments and the long‐term outcomes were analysed retrospectively in 117 patients with WD (59 men and 58 women, aged at evaluation 38.5 ± 11, range 16–63 years).

Results: Fifty‐five patients with a neurological presentation, 51 patients with a hepatic presentation and 11 asymptomatic patients were followed up for an average of 15.1 ± 10 years (median 12 years, range 1–41 years). The H1069Q ATP7B gene mutation was the most frequent genetic variant (54.3%); the frequency of this mutation did not differ between patients with either the hepatic or the neurological presentation (P=0.099). d‐penicillamine or zinc salts (81 and 17% respectively) were used for treatment, and three patients underwent liver transplantation. The majority of symptomatic patients became asymptomatic, or improved, during the follow‐up (82% patients with hepatic presentation, 69% with neurological presentation). The long‐term survival of patients with WD did not differ from that of the general Czech population (P=0.95).

Conclusions: Long‐term follow‐up shows a satisfactory response in the great majority of adequately treated patients with WD and survival coincides with that of the general population.
Interferon‐gamma promoter hypomethylation and increased expression in chronic periodontitis
Authors: Zhang Shaoping , Crivello Antonino , Offenbacher Steven , Moretti Antonio , Paquette David W. , Barros Silvana P.
Published: October 2010

Zhang S, Crivello A, Offenbacher S, Moretti A, Paquette DW, Barros SP. Interferon‐gamma promoter hypomethylation and increased expression in chronic periodontitis. J Clin Periodontol current year 2010; 37: 953–961. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01616.x.

Aim: The goal of this investigation was to determine whether epigenetic modifications in the IFNG promoter are associated with an increase of IFNG transcription in different stages of periodontal diseases.

Materials and Methods: DNA was extracted from gingival biopsy samples collected from 47 total sites from 47 different subjects: 23 periodontally healthy sites, 12 experimentally induced gingivitis sites and 12 chronic periodontitis sites. Levels of DNA methylation within the IFNG promoter containing six CpG dinucleotides were determined using pyrosequencing technology. Interferon gamma mRNA expression was analysed by quantitative polymerase chain reactions using isolated RNA from part of the biological samples mentioned above.

Results: The methylation level of all six analysed CpG sites within the IFNG promoter region in the periodontitis biopsies {52% [interquartile range, IQR (43.8%, 63%)]} was significantly lower than periodontally healthy samples {62% [IQR (51.3%, 74%)], p=0.007} and gingivitis biopsies {63% [IQR (55%, 74%)], p=0.02}. The transcriptional level of IFNG in periodontitis biopsies was 1.96‐fold and significantly higher than tissues with periodontal health (p=0.04). Although the mRNA level from experimental gingivitis samples exhibited an 8.5‐fold increase as compared with periodontally healthy samples, no significant methylation difference was observed in experimental gingivitis sample.

Conclusions: A hypomethylation profile within IFNG promoter region is related to an increase of IFNG transcription present in the chronic periodontitis biopsies, while such an increase of IFNG in experimentally induced gingivitis seems independent of promoter methylation alteration.
The role of mitochondrial complex III in melatonin‐induced ROS production in cultured mesangial cells
Authors: Zhang Hong‐Mei , Zhang Yiqiang , Zhang Bin‐Xian
Published: October 2010

Abstract:  Melatonin is a potent scavenger of reactive oxygen (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS). At pharmacological concentrations, however, melatonin is documented to cause ROS/RNS production, especially in cultured cancerous cells. Currently, the mechanism responsible for melatonin‐induced ROS generation remains elusive. In this study, we provided evidence that melatonin, at micromolar concentrations, induced rapid ROS generation by a mitochondrial‐dependent mechanism in primary human mesangial (HM) cells. The melatonin‐induced ROS production occurred independent of changes in Ca2+ concentrations in the cytosol and/or in mitochondria. In mitochondria isolated from HM cells and mice kidney tissues, melatonin caused ROS production; this melatonin response was completely blocked by the complex III inhibitor antimycin A. In contrast, both the mitochondrial complex I inhibitor, rotenone, and another complex III inhibitor, myxothiazol, which interacts with complex III at a distinct site, had no significant inhibitory effect on melatonin‐induced ROS generation. These results demonstrate that melatonin induced rapid ROS generation via the antimycin A‐sensitive site of mitochondrial complex III.
The Basic-Systems Model of Episodic Memory
Authors: Rubin David C.
Published: October 2010

Behavior, neuropsychology, and neuroimaging suggest that episodic memories are constructed from interactions among the following basic systems: vision, audition, olfaction, other senses, spatial imagery, language, emotion, narrative, motor output, explicit memory, and search and retrieval. Each system has its own well-documented functions, neural substrates, processes, structures, and kinds of schemata. However, the systems have not been considered as interacting components of episodic memory, as is proposed here. Autobiographical memory and oral traditions are used to demonstrate the usefulness of the basic-systems model in accounting for existing data and predicting novel findings, and to argue that the model, or one similar to it, is the only way to understand episodic memory for complex stimuli routinely encountered outside the laboratory.
Study of Mathematically Precocious Youth After 35 Years: Uncovering Antecedents for the Development of Math-Science Expertise
Authors: Lubinski David , Benbow Camilla Persson
Published: October 2010

This review provides an account of the Study of Mathematically Precocious Youth (SMPY) after 35 years of longitudinal research. Findings from recent 20-year follow-ups from three cohorts, plus 5- or 10-year findings from all five SMPY cohorts (totaling more than 5,000 participants), are presented. SMPY has devoted particular attention to uncovering personal antecedents necessary for the development of exceptional math-science careers and to developing educational interventions to facilitate learning among intellectually precocious youth. Along with mathematical gifts, high levels of spatial ability, investigative interests, and theoretical values form a particularly promising aptitude complex indicative of potential for developing scientific expertise and of sustained commitment to scientific pursuits. Special educational opportunities, however, can markedly enhance the development of talent. Moreover, extraordinary scientific accomplishments require extraordinary commitment both in and outside of school. The theory of work adjustment (TWA) is useful in conceptualizing talent identification and development and bridging interconnections among educational, counseling, and industrial psychology. The lens of TWA can clarify how some sex differences emerge in educational settings and the world of work. For example, in the SMPY cohorts, although more mathematically precocious males than females entered math-science careers, this does not necessarily imply a loss of talent because the women secured similar proportions of advanced degrees and high-level careers in areas more correspondent with the multidimensionality of their ability-preference pattern (e.g., administration, law, medicine, and the social sciences). By their mid-30s, the men and women appeared to be happy with their life choices and viewed themselves as equally successful (and objective measures support these subjective impressions). Given the ever-increasing importance of quantitative and scientific reasoning skills in modern cultures, when mathematically gifted individuals choose to pursue careers outside engineering and the physical sciences, it should be seen as a contribution to society, not a loss of talent.
What Should I Be Doing, and Where Are They Doing It? Scholarly Productivity of Academic Psychologists
Authors: Joy Stephen
Published: October 2010

Scholarly productivity is used to index faculty achievement, but normative data on publication rates among academic psychologists are scarce. This article presents the results of a study of 1,216 faculty members from 96 schools, ranging from elite research universities to minor undergraduate colleges. As expected, faculty members at research universities publish the most, followed by those at elite 4-year schools and other doctoral institutions. Institutional prestige has little effect on productivity, except that elite universities employ a greater proportion of truly eminent scholars than other schools do. The fact that many of these scholars are hired by elite schools after achieving eminence elsewhere suggests that financial prowess, rather than institutional climate, produces the latter effect. Academics at all of these types of schools tend to continue publishing throughout their careers; achieving tenure has little effect on their subsequent scholarship. Faculty members at master's universities and lesser 4-year schools publish less than others and tend to cease publication activity after about 10 years, presumably upon receiving tenure. Males tend to publish more than females during the initial push for tenure, but not thereafter; females, unlike males, tend to increase their publication rates as they mature professionally. A subset of highly productive males who are moving toward more prestigious types of schools accounts for much of the remaininggender difference. The number of predoctoral publications is a relatively weak predictor of postdoctoral scholarship.
Domain Denigration and Process Preference in Academic Psychology
Authors: Rozin Paul
Published: October 2010

Unlike most other disciplines, psychology parses its field primarily in terms of processes or mental entities (e.g., learning, sensation, perception, memory), rather than domains of life (e.g., eating, work, leisure). Although there are merits in this organization, a perhaps unintended result is that psychology has paid minimal attention to the major domains of life and how people function in them. Examination of contemporary major introductory, social, and developmental psychology textbooks reveals that their indexes include almost no terms representing five critical domains: food, politics, religion, leisure-entertainment, and work. The process division of psychology dates back at least to Wundt and James, and probably derives from psychology's origins and early dedication to discovering general laws of the mind. The avoidance of study of life domains in psychology is related to several forces, including a downgrading of both applied research and descriptive research in favor of theory and laboratory experimentation. Psychology would profit from paying greater attention to describing and explaining what people actually do, an endeavor that would perhaps be facilitated by a focus on the domains of daily life.
Free Will in Scientific Psychology
Authors: Baumeister Roy F.
Published: October 2010

Some actions are freer than others, and the difference is palpably important in terms of inner process, subjective perception, and social consequences. Psychology can study the difference between freer and less free actions without making dubious metaphysical commitments. Human evolution seems to have created a relatively new, more complex form of action control that corresponds to popular notions of free will. It is marked by self-control and rational choice, both of which are highly adaptive, especially for functioning within culture. The processes that create these forms of free will may be biologically costly and therefore are only used occasionally, so that people are likely to remain only incompletely self-disciplined, virtuous, and rational.
Microanatomy of the intestinal lymphatic system
Authors: Miller Mark J. , McDole Jeremiah R. , Newberry Rodney D.
Published: October 2010

The intestinal lymphatic system comprises two noncommunicating lymphatic networks: one containing the lacteals draining the villi and the connecting submucosal lymphatic network and one containing the lymphatics that drain the intestine muscular layer. These systems deliver lymph into a common network of collecting lymphatics originating near the mesenteric border. The intestinal lymphatic system serves vital functions in the regulation of tissue fluid homeostasis, immune surveillance, and the transport of nutrients; conversely, this system is affected by, and directly contributes to, disease processes within the intestine. Recent discoveries of specific lymphatic markers, factors promoting lymphangiogenesis, and factors selectively affecting the development of intestinal lymphatics, hold promise for unlocking the role of lymphatics in the pathogenesis of diseases affecting the intestine and for intestinal lymphatic selective therapies. Vital to progress in understanding how the intestinal lymphatic system functions is the integration of recent advances identifying molecular pathways for lymphatic growth and remodeling with advanced imaging modalities to observe lymphatic function and dysfunction in vivo.
A yeast‐based recombinogenic targeting toolset for transgenic analysis of human disease genes
Authors: Bentley Kevin L. , Shashikant Cooduvalli S. , Wang Wayne , Ruddle Nancy H. , Ruddle Frank H.
Published: October 2010

Transgenic mouse models are valuable resources for analyzing functions of genes involved in human diseases. Mouse models provide critical insights into biological processes, including in vivo visualization of vasculature critical to our understanding of the immune system. Generating transgenic mice requires the capture and modification of large‐insert DNAs representing genes of interest. We have developed a methodology using a yeast‐bacterial shuttle vector, pClasper, that enables the capture and modification of bacterial artificial chromosomes (BAC)‐sized DNA inserts. Numerous improvements and technical advances in the original pClasper vector have allowed greater flexibility and utility in this system. Examples of such pClasper mediated gene modifications include: Claspette‐mediated capture of large‐insert genomic fragments from BACs‐human polycystic kidney disease‐1 (PKD1); modification of pClasperA clones by the RareGap method‐PKD1 mutations; Claspette‐mediated modification of pClasper clones—mouse albumin‐1 gene; and, of most relevance to our interest in lymph node vasculature—Claspimer‐mediated modification of pClasper clones‐high endothelial venule and lymphatic vessel genes. Mice that have been generated with these methods include mice with fluorescent high endothelial venules.
Lymphatic pump function in the inflamed gut
Authors: von der Weid Pierre‐Yves , Rehal Sonia
Published: October 2010

The role of the lymphatic circulation to actively remove fluid, cells, proteins, and other particles from the interstitium to prevent mounting edema is well appreciated, but whether and how this function is compromised during inflammation has been scarcely investigated. We discuss here the mechanisms of lymphatic pumping and their modulation in inflammatory conditions or by inflammatory mediators in the context of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), an ensemble of disorders typically described with abnormal or dysfunctional intestinal or mesenteric lymphatic vessels. We report our findings showing impaired mesenteric lymphatic contractile activity in an animal model of intestinal inflammation that recapitulates some features of IBD and suggests a role for prostanoids in this dysfunction. With the knowledge that prostaglandin E2and prostacyclin are implicated in IBD pathogenesis and induce a potent inhibition of lymphatic pumping, we established the pharmacological profile for these prostaglandin receptors in mesenteric lymphatic vessels and their respective role in pumping inhibition. Inhibition of mesenteric lymphatic pumping during inflammation may be a cause of edema, compromised immune response, and granuloma associated with IBD.
Mechanisms of chylomicron uptake into lacteals
Authors: Dixon J. Brandon
Published: October 2010

Right from birth, the lymphatics play a crucial role in dietary functions. A majority of the lipid absorbed from the newborn's lipid‐rich diet enters the blood circulation through the lymphatic system, which transports triglyceride‐loaded particles known as chylomicrons from the villi of the small intestine to the venous circulation near the heart. In light of the significance of this role, as well as the fact that lipid transport from the gut was one of the earliest discovered functions of the lymphatic vasculature, it is surprising that so little is known about how chylomicrons initially gain access to the lymphatic vessel. This review will focus on the current mechanisms thought to be important in this process and highlight important questions that need to be answered in the future.
Emerging roles of lymphatics in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Alexander J. Steven , Chaitanya Ganta Vijay , Grisham M.B. , Boktor Moheb
Published: October 2010

The mobilization and recruitment of blood and lymphatic vasculatures are widely described in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Although angiogenesis contributes to intense gut inflammation, it remains unclear whether and when lymphangiogenesis amplifies or protects in IBD. The prolonged maintenance of lymphatic (over blood vessels) in inflammation indicates that lymphatic–blood vessel interactions may regulate IBD pathogenesis and restitution. Although lymphatic expansion helps to restore fluid balance and clear cytokines and immune cells, lymphatic failure results in accumulation of these factors and exacerbates IBD. Lymphatic obstruction and remodeling may impair lymphatic pumping, leading to repeated rounds of lymphangiogenesis. Early descriptions of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis describe colon lymphatic congestion, remodeling, expansion, and many other features that are recapitulated in experimental IBD and also by intestinal lymphatic obstruction, supporting lymphangitis as a cause and consequence of IBD. Growth factors, cytokines, gut flora, Toll receptors, and leukocytes all regulate inflammation and gut lymphatic remodeling in IBD. This review summarizes the importance of lymphatics and lymphangiogenesis in IBD etiology that may be useful in diagnosis and therapy of gut inflammation.
Lower urinary tract symptoms in women and quality of life
Authors: Bilgic Dilek , Beji Nezihe Kizilkaya
Published: October 2010

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) are the most common symptoms in women at all age groups worldwide, and their prevalence is increasing with age. LUTSs have a multifactorial status. The risk factors are age, race, pregnancy, birth, menopause, hysterectomy, obesity, chronic cough, depression, profession and family history. LUTSs have negative effects on women's quality of life, especially on the medical, physical, social, psychological, economical and sexual aspects. Studies report a relationship between the sexual dysfunction and urogynaecological diseases. Although the pathophysiology of high prevalence of sexual dysfunction in women with LUTS is not well known, it is estimated that the LUTS and sexual dysfunction occur due to the effects of low oestrogen levels on vagina, urethra, trigone epithelium and the atrophy of pelvic floor muscles. Especially women, who experience urinary incontinence (UI) and subgroup problems, report more common sexual dysfunctions (hypoactive sexual desire disorder, very urgent need for urination during the sexual intercourse and leakage, lack of sexual arousal, orgasm problems, sexual pain disorders). Despite the high prevalence of LUTS and its negative effects on the quality of life, the help‐seeking behaviours of women for overcoming LUTS differ according to the level of disturbance. Nurses should cooperate with other health care personnel in LUTS prevention, diagnosis, treatment/follow‐up, in the diagnosis of sexual dysfunction due to LUTS and its management. This article discusses the prevalence of LUTS, the risk factors of LUTS, the quality of life of women with LUTS, the negative effects of LUTS on sexual life and its nursing care.
Assessing the reliability and validity of a urinary incontinence scale after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Lin Yu‐Hua , Yang Mei‐Sang
Published: October 2010

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a major complication after a radical prostatectomy and this problem can last for over a year after surgery. There is a need for valid research instruments to assess the extent of this problem. The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of a urinary incontinence scale after radical prostatectomy (UISRP). Psychometric testing of the UISRP using a sample of 124 patients who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and undergone radical prostatectomy was conducted to determine the quality of items, internal consistency reliability, test–retest reliability, construct validity and criterion‐related validity. The final sample consisted of 102 patients (92·7%) in the data analysis. The results indicated that one factor was identified that accounted for 60·28% of the explained variance. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0·90. Two‐week test–retest reliability (ICC = 0·56; 95% CI = 0·26–0·72) was provided. Criterion‐related validity was supported by correlation with the University of California, Los Angeles Prostate Cancer Index urinary function subscale (r = 0·74, p < 0·001) and a criterion variable measuring a 1‐h pad test (r = 0·58, p < 0·001. The UISRP displays satisfactory reliability and validity for radical prostatectomy patients. The UISRP is a valuable research measure and can identify priority areas for nursing interventions designed to improve prostatectomy patients' outcomes.
The impact of an interactive workshop on the management of urinary catheterization on nurses
Authors: Altun İnsaf , Karakoç Ali
Published: October 2010

The aim of this study was to determine whether a structured workshop for nurses promoting best practice technique for management of indwelling urinary catheters results in an improvement in knowledge on the subject. A one‐group pre‐post test quasi‐experimental design using a convenience sample was used. Nurses attended a workshop utilizing interactive lecture approaches, and based on best practice technique for the management of indwelling urinary catheters. Participants (n = 30, 55% of those invited) completed a multiple choice question (MCQ) test, derived from topics to be covered in the workshop, prior to the intervention. The MCQ test was repeated after the workshop to assess retention and application of knowledge. There was a significant improvement in mean test scores after the workshop when compared with pre‐workshop scores (mean = 16·9, SD = 1·1 vs. mean = 8·5, SD = 1·7, p < 0·001). It is concluded that interactive lecture workshops based on best practice techniques for the management of urinary catheterization help improve nurses' knowledge. Such educational initiatives also help to overcome deficiencies in initial nurse training where preparation for quality catheter care can be lacking. Within the limitations of a small‐scale single‐group study of a convenience sample, the information gained in this study will be valuable in helping to establish a baseline for further research. It may also help guide improvements in the implementation of policies for improved management of the care provided to people with an indwelling urinary catheter with the ultimate goal of enhancing safe and quality patient care.
A comparative antibody study of the potential susceptibility of Thoroughbred and non‐Thoroughbred horse populations in Ireland to equine influenza virus
Authors: Gildea Sarah , Arkins Sean , Cullinane Ann
Published: October 2010

Please cite this paper as: Gildea et al. (2010) A comparative antibody study of the potential susceptibility of Thoroughbred and non‐Thoroughbred horse populations in Ireland to equine influenza virus. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 4(6), 363–372.

Background  In Ireland, horses may be protected against equine influenza virus (EIV) as a result of natural exposure or vaccination. Current mandatory vaccination programmes are targeted at highly mobile horses. A correlation between antibody levels as measured by single radial haemolysis (SRH) and protective immunity against EIV has been established.

Objectives  The objective of this study was to determine the susceptibility of selected populations of horses by quantifying their antibodies to EIV.

Methods  Blood samples were collected from Thoroughbred weanlings, yearlings, racehorses and broodmares, teaser stallions and non‐Thoroughbred horses. Antibodies against EIV H3N8 and H7N7 were measured by SRH.

Results  The order of susceptibility to Equine Influenza (EI) in the populations examined in Ireland was as follows: Thoroughbred weanlings > teasers > non‐Thoroughbred horses and ponies > Thoroughbred yearlings > Thoroughbred horses in training > Thoroughbred broodmares. The H3N8 antibody levels of the weanlings, yearlings, broodmares and horses in training were similar to their H7N7 antibody levels, suggesting that their antibodies were primarily vaccinal in origin. The teasers and non‐Thoroughbreds had higher H3N8 antibody levels than H7N7 antibody levels, suggesting that the majority of seropositive horses in these populations had been exposed to H3N8 by natural infection.

Conclusions  Weanlings, teasers and non‐Thoroughbred horses were identified as most susceptible to EIV. The results suggest that it would be advisable that weanlings are vaccinated prior to attendance at public sales, that teaser stallions are vaccinated prior to each breeding season and that mandatory vaccination be implemented for participation in non‐Thoroughbred events.
MChip, a low density microarray, differentiates among seasonal human H1N1, North American swine H1N1, and the 2009 pandemic H1N1
Authors: Heil Gary L. , McCarthy Troy , Yoon Kyoung‐Jin , Liu Siyuan , Saad Magdi D. , Smith Catherine B. , Houck Julie A. , Dawson Erica D. , Rowlen Kathy L. , Gray Gregory C.
Published: October 2010

Please cite this paper as: Heil et al. (2010) MChip, a low density microarray, differentiates among seasonal human H1N1, North American swine H1N1, and the 2009 pandemic H1N1. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 4(6), 411–416.

Background  The MChip uses data from the hybridization of amplified viral RNA to 15 distinct oligonucleotides that target the influenza A matrix (M) gene segment. An artificial neural network (ANN) automates the interpretation of subtle differences in fluorescence intensity patterns from the microarray. The complete process from clinical specimen to identification including amplification of viral RNA can be completed in <8 hours for under US$10.

Objectives  The work presented here represents an effort to expand and test the capabilities of the MChip to differentiate influenza A/H1N1 of various species origin.

Methods  The MChip ANN was trained to recognize fluorescence image patterns of a variety of known influenza A viruses, including examples of human H1N1, human H3N2, swine H1N1, 2009 pandemic influenza A H1N1, and a wide variety of avian, equine, canine, and swine influenza viruses. Robustness of the MChip ANN was evaluated using 296 blinded isolates.

Results  Training of the ANN was expanded by the addition of 71 well‐characterized influenza A isolates and yielded relatively high accuracy (little misclassification) in distinguishing unique H1N1 strains: nine human A/H1N1 (88·9% correct), 35 human A/H3N2 (97·1% correct), 31 North American swine A/H1N1 (80·6% correct), 14 2009 pandemic A/H1N1 (87·7% correct), and 23 negative samples (91·3% correct). Genetic diversity among the swine H1N1 isolates may have contributed to the lower success rate for these viruses.

Conclusions  The current study demonstrates the MChip has the capability to differentiate the genetic variations among influenza viruses with appropriate ANN training. Further selective enrichment of the ANN will improve its ability to rapidly and reliably characterize influenza viruses of unknown origin.
Variation in mammographic appearance between projections of small breast cancers compared with radial scars
Authors: Cawson Jennifer N , Nickson Carolyn , Evans Jill , Kavanagh Anne M
Published: October 2010

Aims: The study aims to assess variation in appearance between mammographic projections (conspicuity variation) for invasive breast cancers (IBCs) compared with radial scars (RS). Conspicuity variation has been previously described as characteristic of RS. The lesions were also compared with respect to breast density and the proportion of cases detected by one of two readers and required a third (consensus) read.

Materials and methods: The study was approved by the BreastScreen Victoria research committee. Mammograms of 75 randomly selected invasive breast cancers, with histological diameter ≤10 mm (IBC), were mixed with 67 consecutively detected RS, all from a double‐reading population‐based breast cancer screening programme. On blinded review, these 142 lesions were classified for mammographic findings and assessed for marked or minor conspicuity variation between views. We assessed the associations between lesion type, lesion spicules and centres, breast density, conspicuity variation and proportion detected by one reader only.

Results: Marked conspicuity variation was common, but not statistically different for IBC and RS (64% vs. 66%, χ2 = 0.8, P = 0.04). Conspicuity variation did not correlate with spiculation type (long, fine or short, broad based) or lesion centres (lucent or dense) (ρ < 0.05, P = 0.5), and showed no significant change with increasing Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System breast density (IBC, χ2 = 2.3, P = 0.5; RS, χ2 = 0.95, P = 0.6). Density did not vary by lesion type. In the screening programme, 29% of IBC (125 of 431) versus 43% of RS (32 of 75) had been detected by one of two readers (χ2 = 2.7, P = 0.098).

Conclusions: Two‐thirds of small IBCs displayed marked conspicuity variation, similar to RS. Therefore, conspicuity variation does not discriminate between IBC and RS.
Microcystic adnexal carcinoma of the skin: The role of adjuvant radiotherapy
Authors: Baxi Siddhartha , Deb Siddhartha , Weedon David , Baumann Kacy , Poulsen Michael
Published: October 2010

Introduction:  Microcystic adnexal carcinoma (MAC) is a rare cutaneous tumour where the role of radiotherapy remains undefined. We contrast our institutional experience with current literature, define the local control rate and suggest a role for adjuvant radiotherapy in the treatment of this cancer.

Methods:  From 1992–2008, a retrospective review was undertaken for MAC treated with curative intent involving surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy at the Royal Brisbane Hospital and Mater Hospital Brisbane. Clinical, pathologic and treatment details as well as patterns of recurrence were analysed.

Results:  Fourteen cases of MAC received local excision and adjuvant radiotherapy. The median age was 71 years old, with nine of the cases in men. All cases occurred in the head and neck region with mean tumour size of 20.5 mm and mean depth of invasion of 9.9 mm. Peri‐neural invasion occurred in 56% of cases and 69% had positive surgical margins. Various adjuvant radiotherapy schedules were used to treat the primary site resulting in a crude local control rate of 93%. Primary and nodal relapses were subsequently salvaged with further treatment.

Conclusion:  While Mohs micrographic surgery may be considered the gold standard, wide local excision and adjuvant radiotherapy offers comparable control rates. Doses of 50 Gy or greater should be prescribed with generous margins (3–5 cm) owing to its tendency for peri‐neural and deep invasion. There was no evidence that radiotherapy can cause aggressive transformation of the tumour. The role for definitive radiotherapy remains uncertain.
Pictorial review: ‘Fishtail deformity’ of the elbow
Authors: Hayter Catherine L , Giuffre Bruno M , Hughes Jeffery S
Published: October 2010

Fishtail deformity of the elbow is characterised by a contour abnormality of the distal humerus, which develops when the lateral trochlear ossification centres fails to develop or resorbs. It is an uncommon complication usually following a distal humeral fracture in childhood. Whilst initially presumed to be a benign condition, long‐term follow‐up suggests that patients with fishtail deformity are prone to functional impairment, ongoing pain and the development of early osteoarthrosis. This paper reviews the imaging findings in fishtail deformity, the proposed aetiology and the potential long‐term complications.
The dosimetric consequences of anatomic changes in head and neck radiotherapy patients
Authors: Height Rebecca , Khoo Vincent , Lawford Catherine , Cox Jennifer , Joon Daryl Lim , Rolfo Aldo , Wada Morikatsu
Published: October 2010

Introduction: To investigate anatomical response‐related changes in the head and neck region during a course of radical radiotherapy and their impact on the planned dosimetry.

Methods: The study consisted of 10 patients with primary mucosal carcinoma. Patients' nutritional requirements were managed as per departmental protocol to minimise weight loss during treatment. Kilovoltage computed tomography (CT) scans were acquired once 40 to 50 Gy had been delivered. Gross tumour volumes (GTV) and organs at risk were delineated and the initial optimised treatment plan was overlaid on the repeat CT. Comparisons were made between scans and absolute volume variations, centres of structures, dice similarity coefficients and the subsequent dosimetric impact were assessed.

Results: Median weight loss at second scan was 3%. Primary and lymph node GTVs reduced by 49.9% (range 21.3–82%) and 73.7% (range 61.7–88.6%), respectively, yet continued to receive the prescribed dose. Maximum dose to spinal cord and brainstem changed minimally. Spared and un‐spared parotid gland volumes reduced by median 23.5% and 20.5%, respectively, with no consistent translational displacement direction and minimal change in the mean dose.

Conclusions: Despite some significant geometric changes, nutritional management ensured patient size and shape was maintained in these consecutively selected patients and subsequently there was no apparent under‐dosing of targets or over‐dosing of normal structures with this technique. Further investigations which model gradual change and allow cumulative dosimetry are required to better characterise what occurs during the treatment course.
Long Philos Plate Fixation for Complex Humeral Fractures
Authors: Pimple Mahesh , Chidambaram Ram , Mok Daniel
Published: October 2010

Background

Operative stabilisation of long segment periarticular, periprosthetic and pathological fractures in humerus is a challenging problem.

Methods

A total of 18 patients were treated by open reduction and internal fixation using the long proximal humeral internal locking system (PHILOS) plate. The types of fractures treated were long segment periarticular fractures extending into the diaphysis (11 of 18), periprosthetic fractures around humeral resurfacing (five of 18) and pathological fractures (two of 18). This study is a retrospective case series review of these cases with a final follow-up observation. The mean follow-up was for 13 months (range 4 months to 48 months). There were 11 women and seven men with a mean age of 52 years (range 19 years to 86 years). Outcomes were assessed using the Constant and Visual Analogue Score.

Results

There was no incidence of loss of fixation, malunion or a vascular necrosis. The mean time to radiological union was 15 weeks (range 9 weeks to 22 weeks). The mean Constant score for posttraumatic fractures at final review was 76/100 (range 64 to 100). The mean Visual Analogue Score was 0.8 (range 0 to 3). The patients with pathological fractures survived for a mean 5 months (4 to 6 months).

Conclusion

The long PHILOS plate fixation provides reliable secure fixation for the treatment of complex humeral fractures, especially long segment periarticular fractures, segmental fractures involving proximal humerus and shaft, periprosthetic fractures around well-fixed humeral resurfacing prosthesis and pathological fractures.
Recommended Design Fatigue Factors for Reassessment of Piles Subjected to Dynamic Actions From Driving
Authors: Lotsberg Inge , Sigurdsson Gudfinnur , Arnesen Knut , Hall Michael E.
Published: October 2010

Calculated probabilities of fatigue failure depend on the analysis procedure used for design. Calculated probabilities of a fatigue failure also depend on long term stress ranges due to loading and uncertainties associated with this. In order to ensure the consistent safety level for assessment of fatigue failure, the design fatigue factors (DFFs) to be used for fatigue design should be dependent on the analysis procedure and premises used. In the present paper, an assessment of appropriate DFFs for piles subjected to dynamic actions from pile driving has been performed by probabilistic analysis based on: uncertainty with respect to dynamic cyclic stress during pile driving, and fatigue capacity of circumferential welds in piles. Accumulated probabilities of fatigue failures in pile butt welds are presented. An assessment of uncertainties involved in calculation of stress ranges during pile driving has been performed. It is shown that the uncertainty in loading when driving records are known is lower than that estimated on the basis of soil data. Thus, in order to obtain consistent safety levels, different DFFs should be used when calculated stress ranges are derived based on soil data only, as compared with the actual stress ranges and number of blows determined from driving records. The results from probabilistic analyses together with recommended design fatigue factors are presented in this paper.
Numerical Simulation of Surface Waves Generated by a Subaerial Landslide at Lituya Bay Alaska
Authors: Basu Debashis , Das Kaushik , Green Steve , Janetzke Ron , Stamatakos John
Published: October 2010

This paper presents simulated results of a computational study conducted to analyze the impulse waves generated by the subaerial landslide at Lituya Bay, Alaska. The volume of fluid method is used to track the free surface and shoreline movements. The renormalization group turbulence model and detached eddy simulation multiscale model were used to simulate turbulence dissipation. The subaerial landslide is simulated using a sliding mass. Results from the two-dimensional simulations are compared with the results from a scaled-down experiment. The experiment is carried out at a 1:675 scale. In the experimental setup, the subaerial rockslide impact into the Gilbert Inlet, wave generation, propagation, and runup on the headland slope is considered in a geometrically undistorted Froude similarity model. The rockslide is simulated by a granular material driven by a pneumatic acceleration mechanism so that the impact characteristics can be controlled. Simulations are performed for different values of the landslide density to estimate the influence of slide deformation on the generated tsunami characteristics. Simulated results show the complex flow patterns in terms of the velocity field, shoreline evolution, and free surface profiles. The predicted wave runup height is in close agreement with both the observed wave runup height and that obtained from the scaled-down experimental model.
Metabolic Syndromes and Malignant Transformation: Where the Twain Shall Meet
Authors: Bhagwat Neha , Levine Ross L.
Published: October 2010

A subset of patients with a rare metabolic disorder,
D
-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria, houses a germline mutation that is similar to certain somatic mutations seen in brain and blood cancers.
p11 and Gene Therapy for Severe Psychiatric Disorders: A Practical Goal?
Authors: Chen Guang , Twyman Roy , Manji Husseini K.
Published: October 2010

Levels of the p11 protein in the nucleus accumbens brain region are lower in individuals with depression, and p11 appears to modulate depression-related behaviors in mice.
Willingness to Try Acupuncture Again: Reports from Patients on Their Treatment Reactions in a Low Back Pain Trial
Authors: Hopton A K , Thomas K J , MacPherson H
Published: October 2010

Background

Reactions to treatment are common following acupuncture. Understanding how these reactions are interpreted by patients is largely unexplored.

Objective

To examine patients’ ratings of the severity and bothersomeness of a range of common treatment reactions, and to assess their impact on willingness to try acupuncture again.

Methods

Self-reported ratings of the frequency, severity and bothersomeness of treatment reactions from 133 patients in the acupuncture arm of a pragmatic randomised controlled trial of acupuncture for chronic back pain are described and analysed.

Results

A total of 133 acupuncture patients reported at 3 months reactions that they had experienced at any time during a course of up to 10 acupuncture treatment sessions. They received a total of 1150 treatments, an average of 8.6 sessions per patient. All patients reported treatment reactions, most commonly relaxation (84%, n = 112), which was significantly associated with willingness to try acupuncture again, (χ2 = 7.860, df = 1, p = 0.005). Only 16% (n=21) were unwilling to experience a specific treatment reaction again, and 9% (n = 12) were unwilling to try acupuncture again. The most ‘bothersome’ reaction was a temporary worsening of symptoms (29%, n=38), though this was not associated with an unwillingness to try acupuncture again (χ2 = 0.382, df = 1, p>0.536). Those unwilling to try acupuncture again reported significantly less reduction in their pain at 3 months (mean (SE) SF-36 bodily pain score at 3 months 30.453 (3.598) vs 19.30 (1.128); p=0.003).

Conclusion

Among this group of patients seeking help for low back pain, the experience of treatment reactions was universal. There was no evidence that the bothersomeness of treatment reactions was associated with patient's willingness to try acupuncture again. The benefit of pain reduction over the course of treatment appeared to outweigh self-rated bothersome reactions to treatment.
Spreadsheets – more than just an accounting tool
Authors: Goulding John
Published: October 2010

Spreadsheets have traditionally been used by accountants to record and analyse columns of financial data, but widespread use of computers has enabled a whole new raft of potential uses for these programs. While accounting remains a common use of spreadsheets in veterinary practice, John Goulding suggests that they can be used by the more clinically minded, too.
Putting a value on a practice
Authors: Ridout Mark
Published: October 2010

Calculating the financial value of a practice can be challenging and a variety of factors must be taken into account, including the current economic climate. Mark Ridout outlines the factors that affect the value of a practice.