bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical characteristics according to depression screening tools in patients with Alzheimer's disease: View from self, caregiver‐reported and drug‐intervention pattern
Authors: Kwak Yong Tae , Yang YoungSoon , Pyo Seon Jong , Koo Min‐Seong
Published: October 2013

Aim

Depression in Alzheimer's disease (AD) has different clinical manifestations from primary depression of non‐demented patients. We designed the present study to explore the following: (i) to determine the clinical characteristics of patients with and without depression according to observational and subjective depression screening scale; and (ii) to examine the depression prevalence rate in patients with AD according to these criteria.

Methods

The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS, observational scale) and Neuropsychiatry Inventory Depression subscale (NPI‐D; subjective scale) were administered to 257 patients with drug‐naïve probable AD. The study groups were classified into the three subgroups of “no‐depression”, GDS depression and NPI‐DS (NPI‐D significant) depression group, and the clinical characteristics of these subgroups were examined.

Results

The NPI‐DS depression group showed lower scores on the Korean version of the Mini‐Mental State Examination compared with the no‐depression group, and higher NPI subdomain scores compared with other groups. The GDS depression group showed higher NPI motor subdomain scores compared with the no‐depression group. Depression defined by NPI‐DS was the least frequent (10.5%), and NPI‐DA (NPI‐D any) was the most frequent (56.4%). The prevalence of depression defined by GDS and anti‐depressant usage was 30.0% and 16.0% each. The level of agreement between the screening tools determined through the kappa index was from low to moderate.

Conclusions

The present study showed that different depression screening tools revealed a different prevalence and poor concordance rate among depression screening tools. Considering lower cognitive functions and higher BPSD symptoms in the NPI‐DS depression group, NPI‐DS could be associated with disease severity in AD patients. However, the clinical significance of GDS remains uncertain. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 660–666.
Evaluation of nail fold capillaroscopy findings in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Monoe Kyoko , Takahashi Atsushi , Abe Kazumichi , Kanno Yukiko , Watanabe Hiroshi , Ohira Hiromasa
Published: October 2013

Aim

Some patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) experience Raynaud's phenomenon. The objective of this study was to clarify the relationships between nail fold capillaroscopy findings and clinical presentations of PBC.

Methods

A total of 70 patients with PBC and 57 patients with non‐PBC liver diseases, including 44 patients with chronic viral hepatic disease, eight with autoimmune hepatitis and five with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease, were included in this study. Nail fold capillaroscopy findings were classified as normal or abnormal and were further graded as mild, moderate or severe, and the relationships between frequency of abnormal blood vessel and their clinical presentations were examined.

Results

The frequency of abnormal nail fold capillaroscopy findings was significantly higher in PBC patients (54.3%) than in patients with non‐PBC liver disease (13.8%) (P < 0.01). These abnormal findings observed in PBC patients were graded as mild in 15 patients, moderate in 18 patients and severe in five patients. Significantly more PBC patients with abnormal capillaroscopy findings (19/38, 50%) were positive for anticentromere antibody than were those with normal capillaroscopy findings (3/32, 9.4%) (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

PBC patients had significantly higher frequency of abnormal nail fold capillaroscopy findings than did patients with non‐PBC liver disease.
Enhancing health‐care workers' understanding and thinking about people living with co‐occurring mental health and substance use issues through consumer‐led training
Authors: Roussy Véronique , Thomacos Nikos , Rudd Annette , Crockett Belinda
Published: October 2013

Background

Stigma and judgemental assumptions by health workers have been identified as key barriers to accessing health care for people living with co‐occurring mental health and substance use issues (dual diagnosis).

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of consumer‐led training by people with dual diagnosis in improving the knowledge, understanding and role adequacy of community health staff to work with this consumer group.

Methods

A controlled before‐and‐after study design with four waves of quantitative data collection was used. Qualitative data were collected to explore participants' views about training. Participants were staff from two community health services from Victoria, Australia. Recruitment occurred across various work areas: reception, oral health, allied health, counselling and health promotion. At baseline, all participants attended a 4‐h clinician‐led training session. The intervention consisted of a 3‐h consumer‐led training session, developed and delivered by seven individuals living with dual diagnosis. Outcome measures included understanding of dual diagnosis, participants' feelings of role adequacy and role legitimacy, personal views, and training outcomes and relevance.

Results

Consumer‐led training was associated with a significant increase in understanding. The combination of clinician‐led and consumer‐led training was associated with a positive change in role adequacy.

Conclusions

Consumer‐led training is a promising approach to enhance primary health‐care workers' understanding of the issues faced by dual‐diagnosis consumers, with such positive effects persisting over time. Used alongside other organizational capacity building strategies, consumer‐led training has the potential to help address stigma and judgemental attitudes by health workers and improve access to services for this consumer group.
Decision‐making process of prenatal screening described by pregnant women and their partners
Authors: Wätterbjörk Inger , Blomberg Karin , Nilsson Kerstin , Sahlberg‐Blom Eva
Published: October 2013

Background

Pregnant women are often faced with having to decide about prenatal screening for Down's syndrome. However, the decision to participate in or refrain from prenatal screening can be seen as an important decision not only for the pregnant woman but also for both the partners.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the couples' processes of decision making about prenatal screening.

Methods

A total of 37 semi‐structured interviews conducted at two time points were analysed using the interpretive description.

Setting

The study was carried out in Maternal health‐care centres, Örebro County Council, Sweden.

Participants

Fifteen couples of different ages and with different experiences of pregnancy and childbirth were interviewed.

Results

Three different patterns of decision making were identified. For the couples in ‘The open and communicative decision‐making process’, the process was straightforward and rational, and the couples discussed the decision with each other. ‘The closed and personal decision‐making process’ showed an immediate and non‐communicative decision making where the couples decided each for themselves. The couples showing ‘The searching and communicative decision‐making process’ followed an arduous road in deciding whether to participate or not in prenatal screening and how to cope with the result.

Conclusions

The decision‐making process was for some couples a fairly straightforward decision, while for others it was a more complex process that required a great deal of consideration.
Patients’ views of teamwork in the emergency department offer insights about team performance
Authors: Henry Beverly W. , McCarthy Danielle M. , Nannicelli Anna P. , Seivert Nicholas P. , Vozenilek John A.
Published: October 2013

Background

Research into efforts to engage patients in the assessment of health‐care teams is limited.

Objective

To explore, through qualitative methods, patient awareness of teamwork‐related behaviours observed during an emergency department (ED) visit.

Design

Researchers used semi‐structured question guides for audio‐recorded interviews and analysed their verbatim transcripts.

Setting and participants

Researchers conducted individual phone interviews with 6 teamwork subject matter experts (SMEs) and held 5 face‐to‐face group interviews with patients and caregivers (n = 25) about 2 weeks after discharge from the emergency department (ED).

Results

SMEs suggested that a range of factors influence patient perspectives of teams. Many patients perceived the health‐care team within the context of their expectations of an ED visit and their treatment plan. Four themes emerged: (i) patient‐centred views highlight gaps in coordination and communication; (ii) team processes do concern patients; (iii) patients are critical observers of ways that team members present their team roles; (iv) patients’ observations of team members relate to patients’ views of team effectiveness. Analysis also indicated that patients viewed health‐care team members’ interactions with each other as proxy for how team members actually felt about patients.

Discussion

Results from both sets of interviews (SME and patient) indicated that patient observations of teamwork could add to assessment of team processes/frameworks. Patients’ understanding about teamwork organization seemed helpful and witnessed interteam communication appeared to influence patient confidence in the team.

Conclusion

Patients perspectives are an important part of assessment in health care and suggest potential areas for improvement through team training.
Stromal expression of neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin correlates with poor differentiation and adverse prognosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Shinriki Satoru , Jono Hirofumi , Ueda Mitsuharu , Obayashi Konen , Nakamura Takuya , Ota Kazutoshi , Ota Tomoko , Sueyoshi Takanao , Guo Jianying , Hayashi Mitsuhiro , Hiraki Akimitsu , Nakayama Hideki , Yamashita Satoshi , Shinohara Masanori , Ando Yukio
Published: October 2013

Aims

Neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) is a member of the lipocalin superfamily. Although its overexpression in various cancers has been reported, little is known about its expression and clinical significance in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). This study aimed to elucidate the clinical significance of NGAL in OSCC.

Methods and results

We investigated NGAL expression immunohistochemically in tumour cells and stromal cells in 96 OSCC tissues. NGAL expression in tumour cells correlated significantly with histological tumour cell differentiation, as shown by its specific distribution in the horn pearl‐forming keratinized tumour cells, but not with other major clinicopathological parameters. We found NGAL+ cells in the stroma that were predominantly myeloperoxidase‐positive neutrophils. The number of such NGAL‐expressing stromal cells was associated significantly with poor differentiation and reduced overall survival in OSCC. The prognostic value of stromal NGAL expression was significant in a univariate analysis, while only a trend was found in multivariate analyses.

Conclusions

This study is the first to show the clinical significance of stromal NGAL expression, which may be an indicator of poor prognosis and more aggressive histological grade in OSCC. Our data suggest that NGAL expression in tumour cells and expression in stroma are associated in different ways with OSCC differentiation.
Expression and prognostic significance of fibronectin and matrix metalloproteases in breast cancer metastasis
Authors: Fernandez‐Garcia Belen , Eiró Noemí , Marín Laura , González‐Reyes Salomé , González Luis O , Lamelas Maria Luz , Vizoso Francisco J
Published: October 2013

Aims

Fibronectin (FN) has attracted interest in cancer research, owing to its role in tumour progression. The aims of this study were to investigate the expression and clinical relevance of FN in breast cancer, and to explore its relationship with the expression of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs).

Methods and results

An immunohistochemical study was performed using tumours from 110 breast cancer patients, with tissue arrays and specific antibodies against FN, MMP‐7, MMP‐9, MMP‐11, TIMP‐1, and TIMP‐2. The results indicated that FN expression was related to tumour size, histological grade, and MMP‐9 expression. Tumours with high FN expression by tumour cells were significantly associated with a higher probability of metastasis, poorer overall survival, and expression of MMP‐7, MMP‐9, MMP‐11, TIMP‐1 and TIMP‐2 by mononuclear inflammatory cells (MICs). In addition, the combination of FN expression by tumour cells and MMP‐11 by MICs was strongly associated with distant metastasis development.

Conclusions

Breast carcinomas with distant metastasis frequently have tumour cells expressing intracellular FN. There is a strong association between FN expression by tumour cells and MMP or TIMP expression by stromal MICs, and this may represent crosstalk that is of prognostic relevance in breast cancer.
Gastrointestinal stromal tumours: from KIT to succinate dehydrogenase
Authors: Doyle Leona A , Hornick Jason L
Published: October 2013

The discovery of activating mutations in the tyrosine kinase receptor genes KIT and PDGFRA has led to the development of effective targeted therapies for gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs). Specific genotypes, in part, predict the response to treatment with tyrosine kinase inhibitors. However, ~10% of GISTs lack such mutations (often referred to as ‘wild‐type’ GISTs). Recent insights into the biology of ‘wild‐type’ GISTs have resulted in clinically significant subclassification of this heterogeneous group of tumours, a large subset of which are now known to represent succinate dehydrogenase‐deficient GISTs. Recognition of this distinctive class of tumours has critical implications for prognosis, therapy, clinical follow‐up, and genetic counselling. Other uncommon genetic groups include neurofibromatosis type I‐associated and BRAF‐mutant GISTs. This review provides an update on the diagnosis and pathogenesis of these less common classes of GISTs, summarizes the clinical and pathological features associated with particular genotypes, and discusses mechanisms of resistance to targeted therapies.
Decorin and biglycan immunolocalization in non‐villous structures of healthy and pathological human placentas
Authors: Borbely Alexandre U , Daher Silvia , Ishigai Marcia M , Mattar Rosiane , Sun Sue Y , Knöfler Martin , Bevilacqua Estela , Oliveira Sergio F
Published: October 2013

Aims

Decorin and biglycan are members of the small leucine‐rich proteoglycan family, and constituents of both the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the cell surface. They are recognized as important factors in the control of proliferation, migration and invasion in vivo and in vitro. In this study, the localization patterns of decorin and biglycan were determined in healthy placentas and in highly invasive placental pathologies.

Methods and results

The study included immunolocalization of decorin and biglycan in samples of first‐trimester and term placentas, placenta accreta, invasive mole, and choriocarcinoma. Extravillous cytotrophoblast (EVT) cells were positive for both proteoglycans in all pathologies and in first‐trimester placentas, although not in term placentas. Biglycan was immunolocalized in the ECM of all healthy and pathological placentas, whereas decorin was observed only in term placenta ECM.

Conclusions

The expression of both proteoglycans was cell‐specific and gestation time‐dependent in healthy placentas, and was associated with invasive EVT cells in pathological placentas. In view of the biological properties of these molecules, it is possible that the biglycan pattern found here is intrinsically implicated in the invasive activity of EVT cells in both healthy and disordered placentas.
BRAF mutation in ‘sarcomas’: a possible method to detect de‐differentiated melanomas
Authors: Cipriani Nicole A , Letovanec Igor , Hornicek Francis J , Mullen John T , Duan Zhenfeng , Borger Darrell R , Nielsen Gunnlaugur Petur
Published: October 2013

Aims

BRAF is mutated in 50–60% of melanomas, but BRAF mutation in sarcomas has not been systematically evaluated. Some melanomas are spindled and may show no immunohistochemical evidence of melanocytic differentiation. Similarly, many sarcomas are undifferentiated, i.e. undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas (UPS). Diagnosing melanoma versus sarcoma in an undifferentiated spindle cell malignancy can be challenging. Our aim was to evaluate the prevalence of BRAF mutation in sarcomas and the use of BRAF mutational status in the diagnosis of spindle cell malignancies.

Methods and results

BRAF mutational analysis was performed on tissue from 104 patients: 90 with sarcoma only (50 UPS) and 14 with sarcoma and melanoma (seven UPS). In the sarcoma‐only group, BRAF mutation was absent. In the sarcoma–melanoma group, three sarcomas showed BRAF mutation; all were UPS, occurred after the melanomas and did not stain for melanocytic markers. One melanoma–sarcoma pair showed identical BRAF V600E mutations.

Conclusions

The presence of BRAF mutation in these tumours raises the possibility that poorly differentiated spindle cell malignancies with BRAF mutation may represent melanomas, and BRAF mutational analysis should be considered in a patient with a spindle cell malignancy and a history of melanoma, as a positive result may indicate de‐differentiated melanoma.
Venous invasion in oesophageal adenocarcinoma: enhanced detection using elastic stain and association with adverse histological features and clinical outcomes
Authors: Castonguay Mathieu C , Li‐Chang Hector H , Driman David K
Published: October 2013

Aims

In oesophageal adenocarcinoma, detection rates of venous invasion using haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and elastic stains have not been compared. The aims of this study were to investigate whether or not elastic stains facilitate the detection of venous invasion, and to determine the prognostic significance of venous invasion following review with elastic stains.

Methods and results

One hundred and three resection specimens containing oesophageal adenocarcinoma, all reported originally as negative for venous invasion, were examined for the presence of venous invasion using H&E and subsequently Movat pentachrome stains. Venous invasion was detected in eight cases with H&E and an additional 66 cases using Movat pentachrome; overall, 72% of cases contained venous invasion. Venous invasion was associated with advanced stage, tumour size, lymphatic and perineural invasion and subsequent distant metastases. Venous invasion, stage, size, grade, lymphatic invasion and perineural invasion were prognostically significant on univariate analysis. Only tumour stage was independently prognostic. Two of eight patients with venous invasion but no other indication for adjuvant treatment died of recurrent disease.

Conclusions

Elastic stains improve detection of venous invasion significantly in oesophageal adenocarcinoma. Venous invasion is associated with multiple adverse clinicopathological features. Its identification may facilitate the stratification of patients at risk for visceral metastases and disease‐related death.
Reciprocal relationship of Tn/NF‐κB and sTn as an indicator of the prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lin Chi‐Yu , Ho Jar‐Yi , Hsieh Meng‐Ti , Chiang Hsiao‐Ling , Chuang Jei‐Min , Whang‐Peng Jacqueline , Chang Yun‐Ching , Tseng Yi‐Han , Chen Su‐Feng , Nieh Shin , Hwang Jaulang
Published: October 2013

Aims

In order to determine whether the expression of tumour‐associated carbohydrate antigens (Tn/sTn) and a representative inflammation marker, nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), is associated with the invasiveness of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), this study has attempted to investigate the correlation of the aforementioned markers with the well‐established invasive pattern grading score (IPGS) and clinicopathological parameters.

Methods and results

Specimens from 143 OSCC patients with classified clinicopathological parameters and IPGS were stained immunohistochemically using anti‐Tn, sTn and NF‐κB antibodies. Our results showed that the expression of both Tn and NF‐κB was correlated positively with staging (P = 0.036; P = 0.015), recurrence (P < 0.001; P < 0.001) and distant metastasis (P = 0.005; P = 0.009), as well as with IPGS, while the expression of sTn was correlated inversely. In addition, poor survival was associated with overexpression of Tn and NF‐κB but not with expression of sTn.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that a reciprocal relationship between Tn and sTn expression may serve as a reliable indicator for OSCC prognostic evaluation. In addition, expression of Tn rather than sTn may play an important role in deeply invasive OSCC via regulation of NF‐κB signalling.
Impact of GB virus C viraemia on clinical outcome in HIV‐1‐infected patients: a 20‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Ernst D , Greer M , Akmatova R , Pischke S , Wedemeyer H , Heiken H , Tillmann HL , Schmidt RE , Stoll M
Published: October 2013

Objectives

The impact of coexisting GB virus C (GBV‐C) infection on the clinical course of HIV infection remains controversial. Early data from HIV‐1 infected patients attending the Hannover Medical School in 2001 suggested prognostic benefit in GBV‐C viraemic patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate patterns in long‐term mortality and morbidity outcomes in this cohort. The impact of the introduction of antiretroviral therapy (ART) on the perceived benefits of GBV‐C viraemia was subsequently investigated.

Methods

A retrospective follow‐up analysis of data in this cohort was performed. GBV‐C status (GBV‐C RNA positive, antibodies against GBV‐C envelope protein E2 or no evidence of GBV‐C exposure) had been determined at enrolment, with several markers of HIV disease progression (such as viral load and CD4 cell count) being collated from 1993/1994, 2000 and 2012. These eras were chosen to reflect variations in treatment strategies within the cohort. In addition, mortality and HIV‐related morbidity data were collated for all patients.

Results

Complete data were available for 156 of 197 patients (79%). In highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART)‐naïve patients, GBV‐C RNA positivity conferred significant improvements in the course of HIV infection and mortality as well as lower rates of HIV‐related diseases. E2 positivity alone conferred no significant advantage. With the advent of HAART, however, the benefits GBV‐C RNA positivity disappeared.

Conclusions

Although GBV‐C coinfection appears to inherently improve morbidity and mortality in HIV‐infected patients, modern HAART has eradicated these advantages. Evidence of synergy between GBV‐C status and HAART response exists, with further studies examining the role of GBV‐C in existing treatment de‐escalation strategies being required.
A comparison of estimated glomerular filtration rates using Cockcroft−Gault and the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration estimating equations in HIV infection
Authors: Mocroft A , Ryom L , Reiss P , Furrer H , D'Arminio Monforte A , Gatell J , de Wit S , Beniowski M , Lundgren JD , Kirk O ,   for EuroSIDA in EuroCOORD
Published: October 2013

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine whether the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD‐EPI)‐ or Cockcroft−Gault (CG)‐based estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs) performs better in the cohort setting for predicting moderate/advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end‐stage renal disease (ESRD).

Methods

A total of 9521 persons in the EuroSIDA study contributed 133 873 eGFRs. Poisson regression was used to model the incidence of moderate and advanced CKD (confirmed eGFR < 60 and < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively) or ESRD (fatal/nonfatal) using CG and CKD‐EPI eGFRs.

Results

Of 133 873 eGFR values, the ratio of CG to CKD‐EPI was ≥ 1.1 in 22 092 (16.5%) and the difference between them (CG minus CKD‐EPI) was ≥ 10 mL/min/1.73 m2 in 20 867 (15.6%). Differences between CKD‐EPI and CG were much greater when CG was not standardized for body surface area (BSA). A total of 403 persons developed moderate CKD using CG [incidence 8.9/1000 person‐years of follow‐up (PYFU); 95% confidence interval (CI) 8.0–9.8] and 364 using CKD‐EPI (incidence 7.3/1000 PYFU; 95% CI 6.5–8.0). CG‐derived eGFRs were equal to CKD‐EPI‐derived eGFRs at predicting ESRD (n = 36) and death (n = 565), as measured by the Akaike information criterion. CG‐based moderate and advanced CKDs were associated with ESRD [adjusted incidence rate ratio (aIRR) 7.17; 95% CI 2.65–19.36 and aIRR 23.46; 95% CI 8.54–64.48, respectively], as were CKD‐EPI‐based moderate and advanced CKDs (aIRR 12.41; 95% CI 4.74–32.51 and aIRR 12.44; 95% CI 4.83–32.03, respectively).

Conclusions

Differences between eGFRs using CG adjusted for BSA or CKD‐EPI were modest. In the absence of a gold standard, the two formulae predicted clinical outcomes with equal precision and can be used to estimate GFR in HIV‐positive persons.
What Can Feminist Epistemology Do for Surgery?
Authors: Walker Mary Jean , Rogers Wendy
Published: October 2013

Surgery is an important part of contemporary health care, but currently much of surgery lacks a strong evidence base. Uptake of evidence‐based medicine (EBM) methods within surgical research and among practitioners has been slow compared with other areas of medicine. Although this is often viewed as arising from practical and cultural barriers, it also reflects a lack of epistemic fit between EBM research methods and surgical practice. In this paper we discuss some epistemic challenges in surgery relating to this lack of fit, and investigate how resources from feminist epistemology can help to characterize them. We point to ways in which these epistemic challenges may be addressed by gathering and disseminating evidence about what works in surgery using methods that are contextual, pluralistic, and sensitive to hierarchies.
U–Pb zircon age from the radiolarian‐bearing Hitoegane Formation in the Hida Gaien Belt, Japan
Authors: Nuramkhaan Manchuk , Kurihara Toshiyuki , Tsukada Kazuhiro , Kochi Yoshikazu , Obara Hokuto , Fujimoto Tatsuya , Orihashi Yuji , Yamamoto Koshi
Published: October 2013

The dating of radiolarian biostratigraphic zones from the Silurian to Devonian is only partially understood. Dating the zircons in radiolarian‐bearing tuffaceous rocks has enabled us to ascribe practical ages to the radiolarian zones. To extend knowledge in this area, radiometric dating of magmatic zircons within the radiolarian‐bearing Hitoegane Formation, Japan, was undertaken. The Hitoegane Formation is mainly composed of alternating beds of tuffaceous sandstones, tuffaceous mudstones and felsic tuff. The felsic tuff and tuffaceous mudstone yield well‐preserved radiolarian fossils. Zircon grains showing a U–Pb laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry age of 426.6 ± 3.7 Ma were collected from four horizons of the Hitoegane Formation, which is the boundary between the Pseudospongoprunum tauversi to Futobari solidus–Zadrappolus tenuis radiolarian assemblage zones. This fact strongly suggests that the boundary of these assemblage zones is around the Ludlowian to Pridolian. The last occurrence of F. solidus is considered to be Pragian based on the reinterpretation of a U–Pb sensitive high mass‐resolution ion microprobe (SHRIMP) zircon age of 408.9 ± 7.6 Ma for a felsic tuff of the Kurosegawa belt, Southwest Japan. Thus the F. solidus–Z. tenuis assemblage can be assigned to the Ludlowian or Pridolian to Pragian. The present data also contribute to establishing overall stratigraphy of the Paleozoic rocks of the Fukuji–Hitoegane area. According to the Ordovician to Carboniferous stratigraphy in this area, Ordovician to Silurian volcanism was gradually reduced to change the sedimentary environment into a tropical lagoon in the early Devonian. And the quiet Carboniferous environment was subsequently interrupted, throwing it once more into the volcanic conditions in the Middle Permian.
Common Cuckoos Cuculus canorus change their nest‐searching strategy according to the number of available host nests
Authors: Jelínek Václav , Procházka Petr , Požgayová Milica , Honza Marcel
Published: October 2013

In recent decades, numerous studies have examined factors affecting risk of host nest parasitism in well‐known avian host–parasite systems; however, little attention has been paid to the role of host nest availability. In accordance with other studies, we found that nest visibility, reed density and timing of breeding predicted brood parasitism of Great Reed Warblers Acrocephalus arundinaceus by the Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus. More interestingly, hosts had a greater chance of escaping brood parasitism if nesting was synchronized. Cuckoo nest searching was governed primarily by nest visibility at high host‐nest density. However, even well‐concealed nests were likely to be parasitized during periods when just a few hosts were laying eggs, suggesting that Cuckoos adjust their nest‐searching strategy in relation to the availability of host nests. Our results demonstrate that host vulnerability to brood parasitism varies temporally and that Cuckoo females are able to optimize their nest‐searching strategy. Moreover, our study indicated that Cuckoos always manage to find at least some nests to parasitize. Thus, in this case, the co‐evolutionary arms race should take place mainly in the form of parasitic egg rejection rather than via frontline pre‐parasitism defence.
Physiological effect of olfactory stimuli inhalation in humans: an overview
Authors: Angelucci F. L. , Silva V. V. , Dal Pizzol C. , Spir L. G. , Praes C. E. O. , Maibach H.
Published: October 2013

Synopsis

The importance of odorants in human life has long been recognized. Literature contains different approaches of physiological and psychological effects of odorant compounds, fragrances and essential oils. This work discusses odorants inhalation effect, based on an overview of major studies in humans. Beneficial effect of fragrances is mainly related to human behaviour. Studies document odorants influence in sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, and neurophysiological brain activity. Moreover, odours compounds can act on the neuroendocrine system, neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, influencing psychological behaviour as well as body function. Odorant inhalation modulates physiological pathways, and in some cases, results in skin function regulation. The mechanism is incompletely elucidated. These findings suggest that olfactory system plays a role in central nervous system function beyond that of smell. In this overview, it was observed that odour compounds influenced stress biomarkers, dehydroepiandrosterone, oxidative stress, estradiol, dopamine, cutaneous barrier, sebum secretion and cutaneous immune system in humans. Some can be related with skin function. As the skin is associated with an extensive biochemical cascade and has complex mechanisms, studies have far to go, as there are processes not yet investigated related to skin that may be affected through olfaction. Future researches are needed to further understand and describe the mechanisms of action of physiological effects in fragrance compounds.
The role of IL‐6 on apical periodontitis: a systematic review
Authors: Azuma M. M. , Samuel R. O. , Gomes‐Filho J. E. , Dezan‐Junior E. , Cintra L. T. A.
Published: October 2013

The aim of this review was to examine current knowledge of the role of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) in apical periodontitis (AP) pathogenesis as an inflammatory or pro‐inflammatory cytokine. It also looked at whether IL‐6 could serve as a measure for differential diagnosis or as a biomarker that can further predict the progression of bone resorption. A systematic review relating to AP and IL‐6 was made via PubMed, BIOSIS, Cochrane, EMBASE and Web of Science databases using keywords and controlled vocabulary. Two independent reviewers first screened titles and abstracts and then the full texts. The reference lists of the identified publications were examined for additional titles. Eighteen papers were studied in total. In vitro studies (n = 6) revealed that IL‐6 is present in AP, and its levels are proportional to the size of the periapical lesions. Neutrophils and macrophages resident in these lesions can produce IL‐6 in vitro after a bacterial stimulus. Animal studies (n = 5) showed that IL‐6 is present in AP and that osteoblasts can produce IL‐6 in vivo. On the other hand, two studies using IL‐6 knockout mice revealed larger periapical lesions when compared with control groups, demonstrating IL‐6's role as an anti‐inflammatory cytokine. In human studies (n = 7), IL‐6 was identified in AP, and its levels were higher in symptomatic, epithelialized and large lesions than in asymptomatic and small lesions. These data lead to the conclusion that IL‐6 may play a pro‐inflammatory role, increasing its levels and reabsorbing bone in the presence of infections. When IL‐6 is not present, other cytokines such as IL‐1 and TNF‐α induce bone resorption. Further studies about the relationship between AP development and the cytokine network must be performed to establish the exact role of each cytokine in the inflammatory process.
Thermophysical Properties of Short Carbon Fiber/SiC Multilayer Composites Prepared by Tape Casting and Pressureless Sintering
Authors: Yang Wenshu , Biamino Sara , Padovano Elisa , Pavese Matteo , Fino Paolo , Badini Claudio
Published: October 2013

Csf/SiC multilayer composites for thermal conductivity (TC) test in three directions were successively prepared by tape casting and pressureless sintering. After 1500°C/5 h oxidation treatment, short carbon fibers were oxidized which produced many pores. However, a core area, which was composed by short carbon fiber, SiC, and few SiO2, was still observed. TC properties of Csf/SiC multilayer composites were highly anisotropic. The TC was decreased with the increase in fiber amount. Csf/SiC multilayer composites demonstrated the highest TC along the tape casting direction and the lowest TC through the thickness direction, which is favorable for thermal protection purpose.
Phase Structure, Microstructure and Dielectric Properties of (K0.5Na0.5)NbO3‐LaFeO3 High‐Temperature Dielectric Ceramics
Authors: Cheng Hualei , Zhou Wancheng , Du Hongliang , Luo Fa , Zhu Dongmei , Xu Boxi
Published: October 2013

The (1‐x)(K0.5Na0.5)NbO3‐xLaFeO3 (abbreviated as (1‐x)KNN‐xLF, x = 0–0.03) ceramics were synthesized by the conventional solid‐state sintering method. X‐ray diffraction analysis shows that the phase structure of the (1‐x)KNN‐xLF ceramics transfers from orthorhombic to pseudocubic with increasing the LF content. The SEM studies reveal that a small amount of LF, as a grain growth inhibitor, has an evident effect on grain size reduction. The (1‐x)KNN‐xLF (x = 0.02) ceramics show high permittivity maximum (near 2000) and low dielectric loss (<5%) in the temperature range of 100–400°C, and the capacitance variation (ΔC/C150°C) is keeping within ±15%, indicating the potential application for the high‐temperature capacitors.
Adsorption of Mercury(II), Lead(II), Cadmium(II) and Zinc(II) from Aqueous Solutions using Mercapto‐Modified Silica Particles
Authors: Košak Aljoša , Lobnik Aleksandra , Bauman Maja
Published: October 2013

This article presents a novel systematic approach to the fabrication of highly functionalized, silica (SiO2) nanoparticles used for the adsorption of heavy‐metal ions (Hg2+, Pb2+, Cd2+, Zn2+). Almost monodispersed silica (SiO2) nanoparticles with narrow particle size distributions of around 85 ± 5 nm were formed using the Stöber process. The prepared SiO2 nanoparticles were successfully surface‐treated during a one‐step procedure by the covalent attachment of mercaptopropyl groups onto the surfaces of the SiO2 nanoparticles. A FTIR spectra analysis confirmed that the binding of the mercaptosilane molecules onto the surface of the silica nanoparticles mediated the Si–O–Si and –SH vibrations. TEM/EDXS micrographs indicated the almost monodispersed and spherical morphology of the prepared product with strong signals of Si and S, thus implying that the coating procedure involving the mercapto groups onto the silica surface had been successfully accomplished. The final results for the heavy‐metal (Hg2+, Pb2+, Cd2+, Zn2+) adsorption showed the strongest affinity within the following sequence Hg2+ (99.9%) > Pb2+ (55.9%) > Cd2+ (50.2%) > Zn2+ (4%). Adsorption equilibrium was achieved after 1 h for all the analyzed samples.
Development of Ce‐PSZ‐/Y‐PSZ‐Toughened Alumina Inserts for High‐Speed Machining Steel
Authors: Mondal Biswanath , Mandal Nilrudra , Doloi Biswanath
Published: October 2013

The nanocomposite CeO2/Y2O3 partially stabilized zirconia (Ce‐PSZ/Y‐PSZ)‐toughened alumina was prepared by wet chemical simultaneous coprecipitation process. The thermal stability of phases and morphology of powders were characterized by TG‐DTA, FTIR, and FESEM. The microstructure, stabilization of phases and compositional analysis with different mol% CeO2/Y2O3‐doped zirconia in alumina are characterized by FESEM, XRD, and EDAX spectra. Significant improvement in fracture toughness and flexural strength has been observed in 10 vol% of partially stabilized zirconia (2.5 mol% Y2O3 in ZrO2/9 mol% CeO2 in ZrO2)‐toughened alumina, which is suitable for high‐speed machining applications.
Cyclic Oxidation of Ternary Layered Ti2AlC at 600–1000°C in Air
Authors: Zhu Haiping , Qian Xukun , Wu Hongyu , Lei Jun , Song Yuchen , He Xiaodong , Zhou Yuan
Published: October 2013

The cyclic oxidation of bulk Ti2AlC at intermediate temperatures of 600–1000°C in air was studied by thermogravimetric analysis. It was demonstrated that Ti2AlC exhibited good cyclic‐oxidation resistance at temperatures above 700°C. The cyclic‐oxidation kinetics approximately follows a parabolic rate law at 700–1000°C range. The surface scales are dense, resistant to spalling and adhesive to Ti2AlC substrate. An abnormal oxidation whose cyclic‐oxidation kinetics obeys a linear law is observed at 600°C. As revealed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), oxidation‐induced cracks present at 600°C results in poor protectivity and accounts for the abnormal oxidation. The cracks are caused by the stress associated with the volume expansion due the formation of anatase TiO2 in the scale.
The Great Crystallite Versus Random Network Controversy: A Personal Perspective
Authors: Wright Adrian C.
Published: October 2013

An account is presented of the history of the controversy between supporters of the crystallite and random network theories, which dominated the structural theories of network glasses for approximately 50 years, and is very poorly, if not inaccurately, covered in many textbooks. The development of the various theories proposed to explain the constitution and structure of oxide glasses is outlined, starting with theearly crystallite theoryof 1835. The true origin of therandom network theoryis revealed, and a short summary is given of the arguments that led to themodern crystalliteorcybotactic theoryand of the reconciliation between the supporters of the (early) crystallite and random network theories. The paper concludes with a brief discussion of the present status of the theories of the constitution and structure of oxide glasses, in light of the data provided by modern experimental and computer modelling/simulation techniques.
Dermatological manifestations of individuals infected with human T cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV‐I)
Authors: Dantas Lorena , Netto Eduardo , Glesby Marshall J. , Carvalho Edgar M. , Machado Paulo
Published: October 2013

Background

Human T cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV‐I) is associated with specific manifestations such as adult T cell lymphoma/leukemia (ATLL), HTLV‐I‐associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP), HTLV‐I‐associated uveitis, and infective dermatitis associated with HTLV‐I (IDH). Although ATLL and IDH are considered specific manifestations of HTLV‐I infection, several dermatological manifestations have been described in HTLV‐I seropositive patients.

Objectives

This study was conducted to determine the prevalences of skin lesions in patients infected with HTLV‐I in an area of Brazil endemic for HTLV‐I infection and to compare these prevalences with those in seronegative individuals in the same region.

Methods

A prevalence study was conducted between 2008 and 2010 with two groups of individuals comprising, respectively, 179 HTLV‐I seropositive (positive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA] and positive Western blot analysis) and 193 HTLV‐I seronegative individuals (ELISA‐negative). The subjects were selected on a random basis and evaluated using a questionnaire to obtain epidemiological and clinical data. A physical examination was performed to verify the presence of skin lesions.

Results

Superficial mycoses were found in 54 (30.2%) seropositive subjects and in 26 (13.5%) of the seronegative group (P < 0.001). Xerosis was found in 39.1% of HTLV‐I infected subjects and in 9.3% of seronegative controls (P < 0.001). Ichthyosis was diagnosed in nine (5.0%) HTLV‐I seropositive subjects but in none of the control group (P = 0.001). A diagnosis of seborrheic dermatitis was made in 43 (24.0%) HTLV‐I infected subjects and in 24 (12.4%) seronegative controls (P = 0.004). Furthermore, dermatological manifestations were more intense in the HTLV‐I seropositive group.

Conclusions

Several dermatological manifestations are more common and more severe in HTLV‐I seropositive subjects. The presence of these manifestations in an area endemic for HTLV‐I infection may provide some clues in the investigation of this infection.
Provider‐to‐provider communication in dermatology and implications of missing clinical information in skin biopsy requisition forms: a systematic review
Authors: Comfere Nneka I. , Sokumbi Olayemi , Montori Victor M. , LeBlanc Annie , Prokop Larry J. , Murad M. Hassan , Tilburt Jon C.
Published: October 2013

Background

Various components of the skin biopsy requisition form (SBRF) may contribute to accurate dermatopathologic interpretation.

Methods

A search of electronic databases, including those of Ovid MEDLINE In‐Process & Other Non‐Indexed Citations, Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus, was conducted from inception to October 2011. Two authors independently screened all articles for eligibility. Inclusion criteria required material to represent original studies on skin biopsy and pathology requisition forms. Data abstracted from each article that met the inclusion criteria included details of the study characteristics, including the study location, type of pathology practice, specimen type, type of dermatoses, medical specialty of the requesting provider, suggested clinical components, and format of the SBRF.

Results

Of 32 titles and abstracts reviewed, seven articles were included. From these, we determined that dermatologists, general practitioners and surgeons completed SBRFs. Commonly included components were patient demographics and requesting clinician characteristics. Clinical information and differential diagnosis were provided in 4% (two of 48 surgeons) to 36% (18 of 50 dermatologists) of requisitions. Most SBRFs did not include information on specimen type, clinical morphology, photographs or clinical history.

Conclusions

The limited medical literature demonstrates variation in the content of SBRFs across clinicians and practices, and suggests an important target for improvement in the quality of communication and dermatologic care by requesting clinicians and pathologists.
Effect of air temperature, slice thickness and pretreatment on drying and rehydration of tomato
Authors: Doymaz İbrahim , Özdemir Özlem
Published: October 2013

The effect of air temperature, pretreatment with alkaline emulsion of ethyl oleate (AEEO) and slice thickness on drying and rehydration characteristics of tomato slices was studied. Drying time decreased with pretreatment, but it increased considerably with the increase in air temperature and slice thickness of tomato. Besides, pretreatment was found to improve the rehydration ratio of tomato slices. The experimental drying curves obtained show only falling rate period. To estimate and select the suitable form of drying curves, five different mathematical models were applied to the experimental data. Among the mathematical models investigated, the Midilli et al. and logarithmic models satisfactorily described the drying characteristics of tomato slices with highest R2 and lowest χ2 and root mean square error. The effective moisture diffusivity varied from 3.123 to 10.03 × 10−11 m2 s−1 over the temperature range studied, and the activation energy values varied from 59.6 to 70.2 kJ mol−1.
Optimisation of vacuum impregnation of blackcurrant‐infused apple cubes: application of response surface methodology
Authors: Diamante Lemuel M. , Hironaka Kazunori , Yamaguchi Yukiko , Nademude Erihemu
Published: October 2013

The response surface methodology was used to investigate the effects of blackcurrant concentrate level, vacuum pressure and time on the mass transfer and nutritional properties of vacuum‐impregnated apple cubes. There were higher water loss and weight reduction in the samples at the middle‐level vacuum pressure, but the other factors had no effect on these properties. The higher the vacuum pressure and time, the higher the solids gain of the samples. There was opposing results of the antioxidant capacity of the samples in the middle and high blackcurrant concentrate level and vacuum pressure when compared with the low blackcurrant concentrate level and high vacuum pressure. The middle blackcurrant concentrate level gave higher ascorbic acid content of the samples, while the middle vacuum pressure gave lower values. The optimised conditions for vacuum impregnation of the apple cubes were 18–20% blackcurrant concentrate level, 77–80 kPa vacuum pressure and 38–45 min vacuum time.
Caffeine and chlorogenic acids intake from coffee brew: influence of roasting degree and brewing procedure
Authors: Tfouni Silvia A. V. , Carreiro Larissa B. , Teles Camila R. A. , Furlani Regina P. Z. , Cipolli Katia M. V. A. B. , Camargo Mônica C. R.
Published: October 2013

The influence of coffee cultivar, roasting degree and brewing procedure in the presence and transfer of caffeine and caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs) from ground roasted coffee to the brew was evaluated. Two coffee cultivars were roasted in three roasting degrees and brewed using two different procedures. Compounds were determined simultaneously by HPLC‐DAD. Caffeine levels ranged from 87.3 to 122.5 mg/100 mL for Coffea arabica cv. Catuaí Amarelo and from 123.3 to 192.0 mg/100 mL for C. canephora cv. Apoatã. The sum of CQA isomers ranged from 24.2 to 41.3 mg/100 mL for brews prepared with dark roasted coffee and from 187.7 to 295.6 mg/100 mL for light roasted ones. Brews prepared by boiling showed higher content of the compounds than the corresponding filtered ones. C. arabica cv. Catuaí Amarelo light roasted coffee brew presented the lowest caffeine/CQA ratio, regardless of the brewing procedure used, in comparison with the highest ratio of the dark boiled brews.