bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internet-based cognitive–behavioural therapy for severe health anxiety: randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hedman Erik , Andersson Gerhard , Andersson Erik , Ljótsson Brjánn , Rück Christian , Asmundson Gordon J. G. , Lindefors Nils
Published: March 2011

Background

Hypochondriasis, characterised by severe health anxiety, is a common condition associated with functional disability. Cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) is an effective but not widely disseminated treatment for hypochondriasis. Internet-based CBT, including guidance in the form of minimal therapist contact via email, could be a more accessible treatment, but no study has investigated internet-based CBT for hypochondriasis.

Aims

To investigate the efficacy of internet-based CBT for hypochondriasis.

Method

A randomised controlled superiority trial with masked assessment comparing internet-based CBT (n= 40) over 12 weeks with an attention control condition (n= 41) for people with hypochondriasis. The primary outcome measure was the Health Anxiety Inventory. This trial is registrated with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00828152).

Results

Participants receiving internet-based CBT made large and superior improvements compared with the control group on measures of health anxiety (between-group Cohen'sdrange 1.52–1.62).

Conclusions

Internet-based CBT is an efficacious treatment for hypochondriasis that has the potential to increase accessibility and availability of CBT for hypochodriasis.
From home treatment to crisis resolution: the impact of national targets
Authors: Harrison Judy , Rajashankar Sheethal , Davidson Simon
Published: March 2011

Aims and method

The home treatment service in central Manchester was established in 1997 to provide an alternative to in-patient care: referrals were only taken from secondary care services. In order to meet national crisis resolution and home treatment (CRHT) activity targets, referral routes were extended to primary care from 2008. To examine the impact of these changes, details of all referrals to the service were collected for a 6-month period in 2008/2009. Referral sources, demographic details and diagnosis were compared with similar data from 2005.

Results

There was a marked increase in the number of individuals accepted by the service in 2008/2009 with a corresponding reduction in duration of contact. Primary care referrals were not accepted in 2005 but accounted for 20% of people treated in 2008/2009. This was mirrored by a change in diagnostic profile, with the proportion of individuals with mild to moderate illness increasing from 25 to 50%. In 2005, 70% of individuals treated had complex care needs compared with 39% in 2008/2009.

Clinical implications

The strict imposition of numerical activity targets can have a significant impact on service delivery. Although more individuals have been treated under the new arrangements, the emphasis has shifted away from the intensive care of those with severe mental illness.
‘Gentlemen, we have no money therefore we must think’ – mental health services in hard times
Authors: Holloway Frank
Published: March 2011

In common with all elements of public services, mental healthcare in England faces a troubling and uncertain future. Two things, however, are certain: demographic trends ensure that demand will rise and harsh economic realities dictate that resources will in real terms shrink. In order to cope with these challenges, commissioners and providers will have to review very critically all aspects of the mental health system, including those that are currently fashionable. There is a need to identify and promote activities that are evidence-based and effective and to jettison practices and services that lack an evidence base.
Region-, Neuron-, and Signaling Pathway-Specific Increases in Prolactin Responsiveness in Reproductively Experienced Female Rats
Authors: Sjoeholm Annika , Bridges Robert S. , Grattan David R. , Anderson Greg M.
Published: March 2011

Pregnancy and lactation cause long-lasting enhancements in maternal behavior and other physiological functions, along with increased hypothalamic prolactin receptor expression. To directly test whether reproductive experience increases prolactin responsiveness in the arcuate, paraventricular, and supraoptic nuclei and the medial preoptic area, female rats experienced a full pregnancy and lactation or remained as age-matched virgin controls. At 5 wk after weaning, rats received 2.5, 100, or 4000 ng ovine prolactin or vehicle intracerebroventricularly. The brains underwent immunohistochemistry for the phosphorylated forms of signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (pSTAT5) or ERK1/2 (pERK1/2). There was a marked increase in pSTAT5 and pERK1/2 in response to prolactin in the regions examined in both virgin and primiparous rats. Primiparous rats exhibited approximately double the number of prolactin-induced pSTAT5-immunoreactive cells as virgins, this effect being most apparent at the higher prolactin doses in the medial preoptic area and paraventricular and supraoptic nuclei and at the lowest prolactin dose in the arcuate nucleus. Dual-label immunohistochemistry showed that arcuate kisspeptin (but not oxytocin or dopamine) neurons displayed increased sensitivity to prolactin in reproductively experienced animals; these neurons may contribute to the reduction in prolactin concentration observed after reproductive experience. There was no effect of reproductive experience on prolactin-induced pERK1/2, indicating a selective effect on the STAT5 pathway. These data show that STAT5 responsiveness to prolactin is enhanced by reproductive experience in multiple hypothalamic regions. The findings may have significant implications for understanding postpartum disorders affecting maternal care and other prolactin-associated pathologies.
Regulation of Kiss1 Expression by Sex Steroids in the Amygdala of the Rat and Mouse
Authors: Kim Joshua , Semaan Sheila J. , Clifton Donald K. , Steiner Robert A. , Dhamija Sangeeta , Kauffman Alexander S.
Published: March 2011

Kisspeptin (encoded by the Kiss1 gene) is an important regulator of reproduction. In rodents, Kiss1 is expressed in two hypothalamic regions, the arcuate nucleus and anteroventral periventricular/ periventricular continuum, where it is regulated by sex steroids. However, the distribution, regulation, and functional significance of neural kisspeptin outside of the hypothalamus have not been studied and are poorly understood. Here, we report the expression of Kiss1 in the amygdala, predominantly in the medial nucleus of the amygdala (MeA), a region implicated in social and emotional behaviors as well as various aspects of reproduction. In gonadally intact rats and mice, Kiss1-expressing neurons were identified in the MeA of both sexes, with higher Kiss1 expression levels in adult males than females in diestrus. In rats, Kiss1 expression in the MeA changed as a function of the estrous cycle, with highest levels at proestrus. Next, we tested whether Kiss1 in the MeA is regulated by the circulating sex steroid milieu. Kiss1 levels in the MeA were low in gonadectomized mice and rats of both sexes, and treatment with either testosterone or estradiol amplified Kiss1 expression in this region. Testosterone's inductive effect on Kiss1 expression in the MeA likely occurs via estrogen receptor-dependent pathways, not through the androgen receptor, because dihydrotestosterone (a nonaromatizable androgen) did not affect MeA Kiss1 levels. Thus, in rodents, Kiss1 is expressed and regulated by sex steroids in the MeA of both sexes and may play a role in modulating reproduction or brain functions that extend beyond reproduction.
Carbonic anhydrase IX (CA9) modulates tumor-associated cell migration and invasion
Authors: Shin Hye-Jin , Rho Seung Bae , Jung Dae Chul , Han Inn-Oc , Oh Eok-Soo , Kim Joo-Young
Published: March 2011

Expression of carbonic anhydrase IX (CA9) was shown to be strongly involved in high incidences of metastasis and poor prognosis in various human tumors. In this study, we investigated the possible role for CA9 in tumor metastases in vitro, using a gene transfection tool in the human cervical carcinoma cell line C33A. Gene expression profiling of CA9-transfected cells (C33A/CA9) and vector-transfected cells (C33A/Mock) was investigated by DNA microarray. The biological functions of differentially expressed genes between the C33A/CA9 and C33A/Mock cells included cell growth, regulation of cell–cell and cell–extracellular matrix adhesion and cytoskeletal organization. Immunofluorescent stain and Matrigel culture showed cytoskeletal remodeling, disassembled focal adhesion, weakened cell-cell adhesion and increased motility in C33A/CA9 cells. These invasive and metastatic phenotypes were associated with Rho-GTPase-related epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Inhibition of the Rho/Rho kinase pathway by a ROCK inhibitor (Y27632) and si-Rho (short interference RNA against RhoA) showed that Rho-GTPase signaling was involved in cellular morphologic and migratory changes. The effect of CA9 on Rho-GTPase signaling was also confirmed by silencing CA9 expression. Our results suggest that CA9 overexpression induces weakening of cell adhesions and augmented cell motility by aberrant Rho-GTPase signal transduction. Our study shows an underlying mechanism of CA9-related enhanced metastatic potential of tumor cells.
Transport to the plasma membrane is regulated differently early and late in the cell cycle in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Zanolari Bettina , Rockenbauch Uli , Trautwein Mark , Clay Lorena , Barral Yves , Spang Anne
Published: March 2011

Traffic from the trans-Golgi network to the plasma membrane is thought to occur through at least two different independent pathways. The chitin synthase Chs3p requires the exomer complex and Arf1p to reach the bud neck of yeast cells in a cell-cycle-dependent manner, whereas the hexose transporter Hxt2p localizes over the entire plasma membrane independently of the exomer complex. Here, we conducted a visual screen for communalities and differences between the exomer-dependent and exomer-independent transport to the plasma membrane in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We found that most of the components that are required for the fusion of transport vesicles with the plasma membrane, are involved in localization of both Chs3p and Hxt2p. However, the lethal giant larva homologue Sro7p is required primarily for the targeting of Chs3p, and not Hxt2p or other cargoes such as Itr1p, Cwp2p and Pma1p. Interestingly, this transport defect was more pronounced in large-budded cells just before cytokinesis than in small-budded cells. In addition, we found that the yeast Rab11 homologue Ypt31p determines the residence time of Chs3p in the bud neck of small-budded, but not large-budded, cells. We propose that transport to and from the bud neck is regulated differently in small- and large-budded cells, and differs early and late in the cell cycle.
Differential roles of kinesin and dynein in translocation of neurofilaments into axonal neurites
Authors: Lee Sangmook , Sunil Neethu , Tejada Jennifer Motil , Shea Thomas B.
Published: March 2011

Neurofilament (NF) subunits translocate within axons as short NFs, non-filamentous punctate structures (‘puncta’) and diffuse material that might comprise individual subunits and/or oligomers. Transport of NFs into and along axons is mediated by the microtubule (MT) motor proteins kinesin and dynein. Despite being characterized as a retrograde motor, dynein nevertheless participates in anterograde NF transport through associating with long MTs or the actin cortex through its cargo domain; relatively shorter MTs associated with the motor domain are then propelled in an anterograde direction, along with any linked NFs. Here, we show that inhibition of dynein function, through dynamitin overexpression or intracellular delivery of anti-dynein antibody, selectively reduced delivery of GFP-tagged short NFs into the axonal hillock, with a corresponding increase in the delivery of puncta, suggesting that dynein selectively delivered short NFs into axonal neurites. Nocodazole-mediated depletion of short MTs had the same effect. By contrast, intracellular delivery of anti-kinesin antibody inhibited anterograde transport of short NFs and puncta to an equal extent. These findings suggest that anterograde axonal transport of linear NFs is more dependent upon association with translocating MTs (which are themselves translocated by dynein) than is transport of NF puncta or oligomers.
Efficient Mannich Reaction Using Iminium Salts Generated from Glycine Derivatives
Authors: Shimizu Makoto , Kusunoki Toshiki , Yoshida Mari , Kondo Koichi , Mizota Isao
Published: March 2011

Iminium salts generated by the oxidation of amino ketene silyl acetals underwent a facile Mannich reaction with another ketene silyl acetal to give aspartic acid derivatives in good yields. The diastereoselectivities were controlled to some extent by using an appropriate isomer of ketene silyl (thio)acetals.
Photocatalytic Mineralization of Acetic Acid in Aqueous Suspension of Metal-loaded Cerium(IV) Oxide under Irradiation of Visible Light
Authors: Tanaka Atsuhiro , Hashimoto Keiji , Kominami Hiroshi
Published: March 2011

Photocatalytic activity of cerium(IV) oxide (CeO2) particles in decomposition of acetic acid in aqueous suspension was examined under irradiation of visible light. Acetic acid was decomposed to carbon dioxide (CO2) and the rate of CO2 formation was increased by loading of 0.1 wt % cocatalysts (Pt, Au, Rh, Ru, Pd, Ag, Cu, and Ir) on CeO2 by photodeposition. Cocatalysts showed almost the same levels of enhancement of CO2 evolution, i.e., Ag/CeO2 and Cu/CeO2 exhibited rates similar to that of Pt/CeO2. The action spectrum revealed that decomposition of acetic acid was induced by photoabsorption of CeO2.
Bismuthtriflate-catalyzed Reaction of N-Alkylisatins with Allyltrimethylsilane
Authors: Meshram Harhadas M , Ramesh Palakuri , Reddy B Chennakesava , Kumar G Santosh
Published: March 2011

An efficient and general method has been described for the synthesis of 3-allyl-3-hydroxyoxindole by the reaction of isatins with allyltrimethylsilane in the presence of Bi(OTf)3·4H2O. The method is catalytic and suitable for the preparation of functionalized 3-allyl-3-hydroxyoxindoles.
Effective Depolymerization of Nylon-6 in Wet Supercritical Hydrocarbons
Authors: Kaiso Kouji , Sugimoto Tsunemi , Kashiwagi Kohichi , Kamimura Akio
Published: March 2011

Treatment of nylon-6 with supercritical toluene in the presence of small amounts of water resulted in an effective conversion of polyamide to give ε-caprolactam in quantitative yield. The presence of a small amount of water is critical for the progress of the reaction; completely anhydrous conditions failed to achieve depolymerization. ε-Caprolactam was readily isolated after the removal of toluene under reduced pressure. The present method can serve as a useful treatment for the effective chemical recycling of waste plastics. The combined use of hydrocarbon and water is a new technique to control the reactivity of high-temperature water.
Utility of therapeutic drug monitoring in the management of HIV-infected pregnant women in receipt of lopinavir
Authors: Caswell R J , Phillips D , Chaponda M , Khoo S H , Taylor G P , Ghanem M , Poulton M , Welch J , Gibbons S , Jackson V , Lambert J S
Published: March 2011

The pharmacokinetics of antiretroviral drugs in pregnancy is poorly understood. We reviewed the use of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in clinical settings to document plasma concentrations of lopinavir during pregnancy and investigated how clinicians acted upon TDM results. A retrospective review was carried out of all HIV-infected pregnant women taking boosted lopinavir-based highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) at five National Health Service (NHS) centres in the UK between May 2004 and March 2007. Seventy-three women in receipt of lopinavir were identified, of whom 89% had plasma lopinavir concentrations above the suggested minimum recommended for wild-type HIV. Initial TDM results prompted dosage change in 10% and assessment of adherence and/or pharmacist review in 11%. TDM was repeated in 29%. TDM can play an important role in the clinical management of HIV-positive pregnant women, allowing informed dose modification and an alternative measure of adherence.
Field performance of a rapid point-of-care diagnostic test for antenatal syphilis screening in the Amazon region, Brazil
Authors: Benzaken A S , Sabidó M , Galban E , Pedroza V , Araújo A J G , Peeling R W , Mabey D
Published: March 2011

We evaluated an immunochromatographic point-of-care (POC) syphilis test in 712 pregnant women under field conditions in remote communities of the Amazon region (Brazil), and identified risk factors for syphilis. Women were screened by POC test using whole blood obtained by fingerprick, the fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA-Abs) test as the gold standard and the Venereal Diseases Research Laboratory (VDRL) test to determine test performance in active syphilis. Multivariate analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with syphilis infection. Among women, 2.2% had syphilis (positive FTA-Abs) and 0.8% active syphilis (FTA-Abs and VDRL positive). In all, 2.2% of samples were positive by the POC test. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were 62.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 38.6–81.5), 99.1% (95% CI: 98.1–99.6), 62.5% (95% CI: 38.6–81.5) and 99.1% (95% CI: 98.1–99.6), respectively. The POC test identified 62.5% (10/16) of syphilis cases, 66.7% (4/6) of active syphilis cases and all high-titre syphilis cases (VDRL > 1:8). Older age was associated with syphilis infection. The rapid test performed moderately well as a screening tool for low-risk populations. This combined with on-site testing and same day treatment could expand antenatal syphilis screening programmes in distant communities characterized by difficult access to antenatal services and infrequent clinical follow-up visits.
HIV testing, perceived vulnerability and correlates of HIV sexual risk behaviours of Latino and African American young male gang members
Authors: Brooks R A , Lee S-J , Stover G N , Barkley T W
Published: March 2011

This study examined HIV testing behaviours, perceived vulnerability to HIV and correlates of sexual risk behaviours of young adult Latino and African American male gang members in Los Angeles, California. Data were collected from 249 gang members aged 18–26 years. The majority (59%) of gang members reported unprotected vaginal intercourse (UVI) in the past 12 months. Only one-third (33.2%) of gang members had ever been tested for HIV. In our multivariate analysis, gang members who reported UVI were more likely to have engaged in the following behaviours: had sex with someone they just met (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 4.51), had sex with someone they think or know had a sexually transmitted infection (STI; AOR = 4.67) or had sex while incarcerated (AOR = 8.92). In addition, gang members with a higher perceived vulnerability to HIV were less likely to report UVI in the previous 12 months (AOR = 0.75). These findings offer implications for development of an HIV prevention intervention for young Latino and African American male gang members.
Metabolic and body composition changes after six months of highly active antiretroviral therapy in northern Indian patients
Authors: Gupta V , Biswas A , Sharma S K
Published: March 2011

This study was carried out to evaluate the metabolic and body composition changes among northern Indian patients receiving combination antiretroviral therapy (cART). We prospectively studied 68 adult patients at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences hospital, New Delhi. The CD4 count, blood pressure, anthropometry, metabolic and bioelectrical impedance data were collected prior to initiation of cART and six months later. The participants had a mean age of 35.9 years and 57 (84%) were male. Hypertension developed in 10.3%. The body mass index, waist circumference, total body fat and lean body mass increased significantly. The total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride and non-HDL-c increased significantly ( P < 0.0001). Diabetes mellitus developed in 2.1%; metabolic syndrome in 19.1% (according to International Diabetes Federation criteria) and 25% (National Cholesterol Education Program – Adult Treatment Panel III criteria). Prolonged survival in the cART era may thus predispose these patients to adverse cardiovascular consequences. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of metabolic abnormalities in northern Indian HIV/AIDS patients receiving cART. Larger studies across India with long-term follow-up periods are required to confirm these preliminary findings. We also recommend that frequent biochemical monitoring should be performed in such patients.
HIV encephalopathy in a child in the presence of a high CD4 count: a rare presentation
Authors: Das S , Joardar S , Bhattacharyya S , Chatterjee R
Published: March 2011

A two-year-old girl presented with regression of developmental milestones for the last three and a half months. She was diagnosed as HIV-positive, but her CD4 count was found to be normal. Computed tomography (CT) scan of her brain showed bilateral basal ganglia calcification with cortical atrophy. A final diagnosis of HIV encephalopathy was made which had occurred despite a normal CD4 count, which is extremely uncommon.
Acute seronegative polyarthritis associated with lymphogranuloma venereum infection in a patient with prevalent HIV infection
Authors: Kober C , Richardson D , Bell C , Walker-Bone K
Published: March 2011

A 44-year-old man who has sex with men presented with a three-month asymmetrical polyarthropathy. He had a positive HIV-1 antibody test consistent with infection acquired more than six months previously. Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV)-associated DNA was detected from a rectal swab. Following successful treatment for LGV his arthritis resolved completely. Infection with HIV-1 has been hypothesized to cause reactive arthritis but this has been disputed. The most likely diagnosis in this patient was sexually acquired reactive arthritis secondary to LGV infection. As LGV can be asymptomatic and treatment differs from that of the other serovars, screening should be considered in all men who have sex with men (MSM) presenting with acute arthritis, particularly if they are HIV infected.
Risk behaviour and HIV prevalence among men who have sex with men in a multiethnic society: a venue-based study in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Authors: Kanter J , Koh C , Razali K , Tai R , Izenberg J , Rajan L , Van Griensven F , Kamarulzaman A
Published: March 2011

This research aimed to determine HIV prevalence, risk behaviour and knowledge of transmission methods among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Venue–day–time sampling (VDTS) was applied to identify venues where men congregate to solicit sex from other men. Participants recruited from clubs, massage parlours, saunas and one park self-completed a computerized behavioural questionnaire, were administered an oral rapid HIV test and given the opportunity to return later to receive full counselling and learn their HIV status. A total of 517 men were enrolled into the study. The majority were Malays (47.0%) and Chinese (43.7%). Twenty tested HIV positive (3.9%). Significant predictors of HIV infection included having unprotected anal sex with a casual partner (44.9% of participants, odds ratio [OR] = 2.99; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13–7.90; P = 0.027), having unprotected receptive anal sex (27.9%, OR = 2.71; 95% CI 1.10–6.54; P = 0.030) and having group sex (33.3%, OR = 3.95; 95% CI 1.55–10.09; P = 0.004). One in five participants (20.1% and 19.5%) did not believe that HIV could be transmitted through insertive or receptive anal sex, respectively. Risk behaviour is high and knowledge of HIV transmission methods was low among MSM in Kuala Lumpur. Future prevention efforts should focus on providing risk reduction education to this community.
Impact of multilayered compression bandages on sub-bandage interface pressure: a model
Authors: Al Khaburi J , Nelson E A , Hutchinson J , Dehghani-Sanij A A
Published: March 2011

Background

Multi-component medical compression bandages are widely used to treat venous leg ulcers. The sub-bandage interface pressures induced by individual components of the multi-component compression bandage systems are not always simply additive. Current models to explain compression bandage performance do not take account of the increase in leg circumference when each bandage is applied, and this may account for the difference between predicted and actual pressures.

Objective

To calculate the interface pressure when a multi-component compression bandage system is applied to a leg.

Method

Use thick wall cylinder theory to estimate the sub-bandage pressure over the leg when a multi-component compression bandage is applied to a leg.

Results

A mathematical model was developed based on thick cylinder theory to include bandage thickness in the calculation of the interface pressure in multi-component compression systems. In multi-component compression systems, the interface pressure corresponds to the sum of the pressures applied by individual bandage layers. However, the change in the limb diameter caused by additional bandage layers should be considered in the calculation. Adding the interface pressure produced by single components without considering the bandage thickness will result in an overestimate of the overall interface pressure produced by the multi-component compression systems. At the ankle (circumference 25 cm) this error can be 19.2% or even more in the case of four components bandaging systems.

Conclusion

Bandage thickness should be considered when calculating the pressure applied using multi-component compression systems.
Femoral vein duplication: incidence and potential significance
Authors: Paraskevas P
Published: March 2011

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of femoral vein duplication and the incidence of bilateral anomalies in a normal cohort of patients presenting with varicose veins.

Methods

Two hundred and forty patients underwent bilateral lower limb deep venous ultrasound examination with particular attention to the femoropopliteal segment.

Results

The incidence of femoral vein duplication was 41%. Of the 140 people with femoral vein duplications, 60 (42%) were bilateral and 80 (57%) were unilateral.

Conclusion

Femoral vein duplication is a common anatomical variant of the lower limb deep venous system. Ultrasound in skilled and experienced hands with the latest ultrasound units can readily demonstrate this venous anomaly on a consistent basis.
Warfarin-Cranberry Juice Interaction
Authors: Hamann Gale L , Campbell Jennifer D , George Christa M
Published: March 2011

Objective:

To report a case of warfarin-cranberry juice interaction, which resulted in an international normalized ratio (INR) elevation on 2 separate occasions.

Case Summary:

A 46-year-old female was receiving a total weekly dose of 56 mg of warfarin. During the 4 months prior to the incident INR. her average INR was 2.0. with a range of 1.6-2.2, while taking the same weekly dose of warfarin. Her INR increased to 4.6 after drinking approximately 1.5 quarts (1420 mL) of cranberry juice cocktail daily for 2 days. Her INR 14 days later without cranberry juice cocktail consumption was 2.3. For the next 3 months, while taking warfarin 56 mg per week, her average INR was 2.1, with a range of 1.4-2.5. At a subsequent visit, after drinking approximately 2 quarts (1S93 mL) of cranberry juice cocktail daily for 3-4 days, her INR had increased to 6.5. Her INR after holding warfarin for 3 days was 1.86. Her INR 7 days after resuming the weekly dose of warfarin 56 mg was 3.2. During both of the elevated INR episodes, no other factors were identified that would have resulted in an elevated INR, such as drug, herbal, disease, or other food interactions. An objective causality assessment revealed the interaction was highly probable.

Discussion:

Warfarin is the most commonly used anticoagulant for chronic therapy. There have been several case reports of cranberry juice or cranberry sauce potentiating the effects of warfarin by elevating the INR; however, clinical trials evaluating this interaction have failed to demonstrate a significant effect on an INR.

Conclusions:

Our case report describes INR elevations in a patient previously stable on warfarin after ingestion of cranberry juice cocktail daily for several days. This elevation occurred on 2 separate occasions, which distinguishes our case from other published literature.
A case of synchronous hepatocellular carcinoma and aortic body chemodectoma in a dog — Pathological case report
Authors: Sterczer Ágnes , Németh Tibor , Mándoki Míra , Gálfi Péter , Jakab Csaba
Published: March 2011

The authors describe a case of synchronously occurring (double) tumours, i.e. primary hepatocellular carcinoma and aortic body chemodectoma in a 14-year-old mixed-breed male dog. The tumours were identified during necropsy, following euthanasia. In the last months of its life, the dog showed signs of weakness, anorexia, apathy, inactivity, and abdominal palpation elicited a painful reaction. The primary liver cancer emerged in the left lateral lobe without evidence of any distant metastases. Histopathological and immunohistochemical investigations revealed a well-differentiated, trabecular, claudin-7-, claudin-5- and pancytokeratin-negative hepatocellular carcinoma. The Ki-67 proliferation index was 33%. During necropsy, a synchronously occurring benign, grade I type aortic body chemodectoma was also detected in the dog. This neuroendocrine tumour showed chromogranin-, synaptophysin-, neuron-specific enolase- and S100 protein-positivity, and the Ki-67 proliferation index was 2%. The authors believe that this is the first description of synchronously occurring hepatocellular carcinoma and aortic body chemodectoma in a dog.
Abundance of IFN-α and IFN-γ gene transcripts and absence of IL-2 transcripts in the blood of chickens vaccinated with live or inactivated NDV
Authors: Balenović Mirta , Savić Vladimir , Ekert Kabalin Anamaria , Jurinović Luka , Ragland William
Published: March 2011

As immune responses to live and inactivated vaccines might differ, temporal responses of broiler chickens to vaccination were examined on the basis of the abundance in the circulating blood of gene transcripts of IFN-α, IFN-γ and IL-2, critical cytokines for immune responses. Blood samples were collected 6, 12 and 24 hours, and 7 and 14 days following vaccination with either live or inactivated Newcastle disease virus, La Sota strain, at 14 days of age, and the abundance of transcripts for each cytokine was assayed by real-time RT-PCR. Physiological saline and vaccine emulsion without viral antigen were administered to control groups for live and inactivated vaccine groups, respectively. The abundance of IFN-γ transcripts was elevated during the early times following vaccination and had reached baseline by the seventh day but the abundance of IFN-α transcripts remained elevated. Transcripts for neither IFN gene were detected in the control birds. The abundance of transcripts for each IFN was not different between the two vaccinated groups at any time. Transcripts for IL-2 were detected only in spleens from chicken embryos that had been inoculated with the live virus. The results show that cells stimulated to produce IFN-α and IFN-γ enter the circulating blood but those stimulated to produce IL-2 do not, or in very low number, and the IFN responses to both vaccines are the same.
Association of Enterococcus cecorum with vertebral osteomyelitis and spondylolisthesis in broiler parent chicks
Authors: Makrai László , Nemes Csaba , Simon Anna , Ivanics Éva , Dudás Zoltán , Fodor László , Glávits Róbert
Published: March 2011

Enterococcus cecorumis the most frequently occurring enterococcal species in the intestine of chickens of over 12 weeks of age, and there are few reports on its isolation from the skeleton of broiler parent chicks. In the present study, observations on vertebral osteomyelitis and spondylolisthesis (‘kinky back syndrome’) showing high incidence in 8 broiler parent flocks in different parts of Hungary are summarised. Clinical signs were seen only in roosters between 5 and 13 weeks of age. Diseased birds were alert and remained sitting on their hocks with their feet slightly raised off the ground. Incidence of the disease among male birds ranged from 8% to 30% depending on flocks. Enlargement and distortion of the body of the 6th vertebra were seen as the main pathological lesions. The cavity of the spinal canal was constricted by the distorted vertebral bodies. Resorption of bone tissue and sequestrum formation, signs of increased osteoclast activity, proliferation of fibrotic tissues, infiltration with heterophils and formation of sclerotic layers were detected in the vertebral bodies. From all 24 samples collected from the vertebral lesions,Enterococcus cecorumwas isolated and identified using metabolic fingerprinting as well as 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Demonstration ofE. cecorumfrom the vertebral lesions in all examined broiler breeder roosters showing the same clinical and pathological findings in different flocks suggested the pathogenic role of this microorganism for the first time in Hungary.
Occurrence, clinical features and outcome of canine pancreatitis (80 cases)
Authors: Pápa Kinga , Máthé Ákos , Abonyi-Tóth Zsolt , Sterczer Ágnes , Psáder Roland , Hetyey Csaba , Vajdovich Péter , Vörös Károly
Published: March 2011

Medical records of 80 dogs diagnosed with acute pancreatitis during a 4-year period were evaluated regarding history, breed predilection, clinical signs and additional examination findings. Cases were selected if compatible clinical symptoms, increased serum activity of amylase or lipase and morphologic evidence of pancreatitis by ultrasonography, laparotomy or necropsy were all present. Like in other studies, neutered dogs had an increased risk of developing acute pancreatitis. Although breed predilection was consistent with earlier reports, some notable differences were also observed. Apart from Dachshunds, Poodles, Cocker Spaniels and Fox Terriers, the sled dogs (Laikas, Alaskan Malamutes) also demonstrated a higher risk for pancreatitis according to our results. Concurrent diseases occurred in 56 dogs (70%), diabetes mellitus (n = 29, 36%) being the most common. Clinical signs of acute pancreatitis were similar to those observed in other studies. The study group represented a dog population with severe acute pancreatitis, having a relatively high mortality rate (40%) compared to data of the literature. Breed, age, gender, neutering and body condition had no significant association with the outcome. Hypothermia (p = 0.0413) and metabolic acidosis (p = 0.0063) correlated significantly with poor prognosis and may serve as valuable markers for severity assessment in canine acute pancreatitis.
Immunomodulatory effect of glucan on specific and nonspecific immunity after vaccination in puppies
Authors: Haladová Eva , Mojžišová Jana , Smrčo Peter , Ondrejková Anna , Vojtek Boris , Prokeš Marián , Petrovová Eva
Published: March 2011

The objective of the study was to determine the immunostimulatory effect of β-(1,3/1,6)-D-glucan in puppies. The effect exerted on the efficacy of vaccination, especially against canine parvovirus and rabies infection, was studied. The application of vaccine and glucan leads to significant increases in the nonspecific immunological parameters (phagocytic ability of leukocytes, blastogenic response of lymphocytes, metabolic and chemotactic activity of polymorphonuclear cells). The level of antibodies against canine parvovirus (Ab CPV) and rabies infection reached the most statistically significant values on the 28th day after the application of vaccine and a syrup containing β-(1,3/1,6)-D-glucan (Group GV) as compared to the control group (Group V, puppies receiving only vaccine). Dogs without glucan supplementation did not produce such significant levels of antibodies. We can conclude that glucan has relevant immunostimulatory effects in dogs with altered immunity. The glucan product tested in this study (PleraSAN V, PLEURAN, Bratislava, Slovakia) could be used in the small animal clinical practice.
Ectopic ACTH-secreting neuroendocrine tumor
Authors: Szabó Attila , Igaz Péter , Kiss Róbert , Lakatos Gergely , Varga Ibolya , Rácz Károly
Published: March 2011

The authors report a case of an ectopic ACTH-syndrome that resulted in severe hypercortisolism, hypokalemia, diabetes mellitus and osteoporosis. The ACTH-secreting tumor tissue was localized in the lung. The tumor was removed by segmentectomy and histological evaluation revealed an ACTH-secreting neuroendocrine tumor. After surgery, however, plasma cortisol and ACTH levels failed to decrease significantly due to subtotal tumor removal. Long-acting somatostatin analogue therapy resulted in a normalization of both plasma cortisol and ACTH levels and the clinical symptoms improved significantly. Residual tumor was removed by repeat surgery and the patient was permanently cured. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 403–406.
Somatostatin receptor endoradiotherapy of neuroendocrine tumors: experience in Hungarian patients
Authors: Reismann Péter , Kender Zoltán , Dabasi Gabriella , Sréter Lídia , Rácz Károly , Igaz Péter
Published: March 2011

Beside conventional therapies for the treatment of neuroendocrine tumors, a new therapeutical approach, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy has been developed recently. There are two important features which make this therapy feasible: somatostatin receptors are strongly over-expressed in most neuroendocrine tumors resulting in a high tumor-to-background ratio and internalization of the somatostatin-receptor complex in neuroendocrine cells. Due to these features, neuroendocrine tumors can be treated with radiolabelled somatostatin analogues. For peptide receptor radionuclide therapy, somatostatin analogues are conjugated to a chelator that can bind a radionuclide. The most frequently used radionuclides for neuroendocrine tumor treatment are the β-emitter Yttrium-90 (90Y) and the β+γ emitter Lutetium-177 (177Lu). Candidates for somatostatin receptor endoradiotherapy are patients with progressive, metastatic, somatostatin-receptor positive neuroendocrine tumors. Many patients have been successively treated with this approach: according to international results major remission can be achieved in 25% of the cases. Although this therapy is still unavailable in Hungary, Hungarian patients can be treated with somatostatin receptor endoradiotherapy with financial support from the National Health Fund in a co-operation with the University of Basel since 2005. During the past 5 years, 51 Hungarian patients have been treated with this therapy. This review briefly summarizes the theoretical background, indications, effectiveness and side effects of somatostatin receptor endoradiotherapy and the authors present the first data obtained from Hungarian patients. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 392–397.
Mesoscopic modelling of masonry failure
Authors: De Proft Kurt , Heyens Koen , Sluys Bert
Published: March 2011

The numerical modelling of masonry has been a popular research topic for many years. Although it is a relatively simple way of constructing, the numerical modelling of deformation in failure masonry remains a great challenge. Over the years, a number of modelling techniques have been proposed, all with their advantages and disadvantages. In practice, however, these models are not frequently used owing to their complexity and high computational effort. In this paper, joints and bricks are modelled separately. The kinematics of the joint are modelled using the generalised finite-element method (GFEM), while the brick behaviour is assumed to remain linear elastic. The joint behaviour is modelled with a cohesive zone law, based on two failure surfaces: a Rankine-type surface for mode I behaviour and a Mohr–Coulomb type surface for mode II behaviour. The fracturing of joints is governed by a decrease of stiffness within the joint. This decrease of stiffness on the local scale is implemented in a general solution scheme based on a sequentially linear approach. Several examples of this robust technique are shown.
Improved robust design optimisation of structures
Authors: Chakraborty Subrata , Bhattacharjya Soumya
Published: March 2011

Robust design optimisation is conventionally achieved by minimising the expected value and the variance of the performance function by attaching equal importance to each individual gradient of the performance function. But, it is well established in the literature that not all the gradients should be of equal importance when accounting for uncertainty. The present work proposes an improved robust design optimisation algorithm. The basic idea is to improve performance robustness by defining a new index based on factors that are proportional to the importance of the gradients of the performance function. The same concept is used to achieve the robustness of the constraints. Two examples are considered: minimisation of the cost of a steel column; and weight minimisation of a simply supported beam. The results confirm that the proposed formulation is an improvement on conventional robust design optimisation.
INCREASING SEAT BELT USE IN SERVICE VEHICLE DRIVERS WITH A GEARSHIFT DELAY
Authors: Houten Ron Van , Malenfant J. E. Louis , Reagan Ian , Sifrit Kathy , Compton Richard , Tenenbaum Jeff
Published: March 2011

This study evaluated a device that prevents drivers from shifting vehicles into gear for up to 8 s unless seat belts are buckled. Participants were 101 commercial drivers who operated vans, pickups, or other light trucks from the U.S. and Canada. The driver could escape or avoid the delay by fastening his or her seat belt before shifting out of park. Unbelted participants experienced either a constant delay (8 s) or a variable delay (M = 8 s). A 16‐s delay was introduced for those U.S. drivers who did not show significant improvement. Seat belt use increased from 48% to 67% (a 40% increase) for U.S. drivers and from 54% to 74% (a 37% increase) for Canadian drivers. The fixed delay was more effective for U.S. drivers than the variable delay, but there was no difference between these two delay schedules for Canadian drivers. After the driver fastened his or her seat belt, it tended to remain fastened for the duration of the trip.
EXAMINING THE GENERALITY OF CHILDREN'S PREFERENCE FOR CONTINGENT REINFORCEMENT VIA EXTENSION TO DIFFERENT RESPONSES, REINFORCERS, AND SCHEDULES
Authors: Luczynski Kevin C. , Hanley Gregory P.
Published: March 2011

Studies that have assessed whether children prefer contingent reinforcement (CR) or noncontingent reinforcement (NCR) have shown that they prefer CR. Preference for CR has, however, been evaluated only under continuous reinforcement (CRF) schedules. The prevalence of intermittent reinforcement (INT) warrants an evaluation of whether preference for CR persists as the schedule of reinforcement is thinned. In the current study, we evaluated 2 children's preference for contingent versus noncontingent delivery of highly preferred edible items for academic task completion under CRF and INT schedules. Children (a) preferred CR to NCR under the CRF schedule, (b) continued to prefer CR as the schedule of reinforcement became intermittent, and (c) exhibited a shift in preference from CR to NCR as the schedule became increasingly thin. These findings extend the generality of and provide one set of limits to the preference for CR. Applied implications, variables controlling preferences, and future research are discussed.
THE EFFECTS OF VARIABLE‐TIME DELIVERY OF FOOD ITEMS AND PRAISE ON PROBLEM BEHAVIOR REINFORCED BY ESCAPE
Authors: Lomas Joanna E. , Fisher Wayne W. , Kelley Michael E.
Published: March 2011

Prior research indicates that reinforcement of an appropriate response (e.g., compliance) can produce concomitant reductions in problem behavior reinforced by escape when problem behavior continues to produce negative reinforcement (e.g., Lalli et al., 1999). These effects may be due to a preference for positive over negative reinforcement or to positive reinforcement acting as an abolishing operation, rendering demands less aversive and escape from demands less effective as negative reinforcement. In the current investigation, we delivered a preferred food item and praise on a variable‐time 15‐s schedule while providing escape for problem behavior on a fixed‐ratio 1 schedule in a demand condition for 3 participants with problem behavior maintained by negative reinforcement. Results for all 3 participants showed that variable‐time delivery of preferred edible items reduced problem behavior even though escape continued to be available for these responses. These findings are discussed in the context of motivating operations.
BEHAVIIORAL COACHING TO IMPROVE OFFENSIVE LINE PASS‐BLOCKING SKILLS OF HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL ATHLETES
Authors: Stokes John V. , Luiselli James K. , Reed Derek D. , Fleming Richard K.
Published: March 2011

We evaluated several behavioral coaching procedures for improving offensive line pass‐blocking skills with 5 high school varsity football players. Pass blocking was measured during practice drills and games, and our intervention included descriptive feedback with and without video feedback and teaching with acoustical guidance (TAG). Intervention components and pass blocking were evaluated in a multiple baseline design, which showed that video feedback and TAG were the most effective procedures. For all players, improved pass blocking matched a standard derived by observing more experienced linemen and was evident in games. Additional intervention was required to maintain pass‐blocking proficiency. Issues pertinent to behavioral coaching and sport psychology research are discussed.
PREDICTING PREFERENCE FOR ITEMS DURING PERIODS OF EXTENDED ACCESS BASED ON EARLY RESPONSE ALLOCATION
Authors: Rapp John T. , Rojas Nairim C. , Colby‐Dirksen Amanda M. , Swanson Greg J. , Marvin Kendra L.
Published: March 2011

Top‐ranked items were identified during 30‐min free‐operant preference assessments for 9 individuals. Data from each session were analyzed to identify the item (a) that was engaged with first in each session and (b) to which the most responding was allocated after 5 min, 10 min, 15 min, 20 min, and 25 min had elapsed in each session. The results indicated that the first‐engaged item and the 5‐min high‐allocation item predicted the top‐ranked item in 55% and 62% of the sessions, respectively. The results also showed that engagement with the top‐ranked item from the first session decreased across subsequent sessions for 6 of the 9 participants. The implications of the results for brief versus extended stimulus preference assessments are discussed.
ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT OF ELOPEMENT MAINTAINED BY ACCESS TO STEREOTYPY
Authors: Falcomata Terry S. , Roane Henry S. , Feeney Brian J. , Stephenson Kasey M.
Published: March 2011

We evaluated a treatment for elopement maintained by access to stereotypic door play. First, we conducted a functional analysis of elopement that produced undifferentiated results. Next, we conducted an assessment in which we evaluated the relation between elopement and door play. Results suggested a functional relation between the 2 behaviors (i.e., elopement was maintained by contingent access to door play). Finally, we implemented functional communication training as a treatment for elopement in which access to door play was made contingent on a target appropriate communication response.