bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Quadrox-i and Capiox FX neonatal oxygenators with integrated arterial filters in eliminating gaseous microemboli and retaining hemodynamic properties during simulated cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Lin J , Dogal NM , Mathis RK , Qiu F , Kunselman A , Ündar A
Published: February 2012

Perfusion quality during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) procedures can contribute to postoperative neurological complications and influence patient recovery and outcome. Gaseous microemboli generated in the circuit and hemodynamic properties of blood reaching the patient can be monitored during CPB to optimize perfusion. Oxygenators that oxygenate the blood during CPB can significantly influence the quality of blood reaching the patient by their manufacturing designs. New hollow-fiber membrane oxygenators are developed with integrated arterial filters to reduce priming volume and eliminate a separate arterial filter in the circuit. To evaluate the performance of these new oxygenators, we used a simulated model to compare the Quadrox-i Neonatal and the Capiox Baby FX05 neonatal oxygenators and to provide a review of these oxygenators with their respective counterparts which have separate arterial filters. We found that microemboli counts for the new Quadrox-i and Capiox FX05 oxygenators are similar in the arterial line, but different across the oxygenator for all experimental conditions. The arterial purge line diverting blood from the patient reduces microemboli count for the Capiox FX05, but is inconsistent for the Quadrox-i Neonatal. While hemodynamic energy delivered to the patient is similar for both oxygenators, shunted blood flow for the Quadrox-i Neonatal oxygenator is three times higher than the Capiox FX05 (103.6 mL/min vs 33.0 mL/min at 400 mL/min and 35°C) (p<0.001).
The premonitory phase of migraine and migraine management
Authors: Becker Werner J
Published: February 2012

Objective:

The objective was to determine, through a literature review, whether treatment during the premonitory phase of migraine is a potentially useful migraine management strategy.

Methods:

A general literature review was done with regard to the nature of migraine premonitory symptoms, their frequency, their reliability in predicting migraine attacks, and the effectiveness of medication treatment when given during the premonitory phase.

Results:

Many different symptoms have been reported as premonitory symptoms that occur before migraine attacks. Up to 87% of patients with migraine may experience premonitory symptoms, although some studies have provided estimates as low as 33%. In selected patients, premonitory symptoms may be relatively reliable predictors of a migraine attack to follow. Both naratriptan (open-label study) and domperidone (double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study) have been reported to be effective when given during the premonitory phase.

Conclusions:

More research is needed, but there is some evidence that medication treatment during the premonitory phase has the potential to be helpful in selected patients with migraine.
The Disfigured Ontology of Figurational Sociology: Norbert Elias and the Question of Violence
Authors: Malešević Siniša , Ryan Kevin
Published: February 2012

This article scrutinizes Norbert Elias’s figurational sociology by focusing on its ontological foundations. The analytical spotlight is on the inherent tension between Elias’s stance of normative neutrality and detachment, his naturalistic ontology, and an unyielding commitment to directional development. We show how Elias’s social theory does not stand apart, as an external observer, from the figurations it seeks to explain. On the contrary, it constitutes its own outside, and this has consequences when it comes to explaining the ‘dark sides’ of the present, and in particular the social sources of organized violence in modernity. It is our contention that Elias’s ontology incorrectly posits violence as the absolute Other of civilization, so that his theory of the ‘Civilising Process’ fails to adequately account for the persistence and proliferation of warfare in the modern age.
Optimization of cylinder liner surface finish by slide honing
Authors: Dimkovski Z , Cabanettes F , Löfgren H , Anderberg C , Ohlsson R , Rosén B G
Published: February 2012

Cylinder liner surface finish controls the frictional losses, oil consumption, and emissions of internal combustion engines to a large extent. In order to minimize such losses, it is important to optimize the liner surface topography by a consistent and more productive finishing process such as slide honing. This process employs diamond abrasives and has been recently introduced in the automotive industry. In this study, its potentials are explored, especially the winning combination of its key process parameters: the base honing pressure and plateau honing time that would yield an optimal liner surface finish. A number of truck engine liners were slide-honed by using different process parameters, samples of the liners were cut, and three-dimensional (3D) surface measurements were taken on a white light interferometer. Then, among others, the (deep honing) groove parameters, specific for liner surfaces, were computed from the measurements for building a large database for comparison and correlation. By simulating the contact and fluid mechanics between the measured liner topographies and a twin land oil control ring under mixed lubrication conditions, the friction mean effective pressure and oil passage rate for a range of engine speeds were calculated. These two parameters represent the liner’s function associated with the engine’s friction and oil consumption respectively. The results show that the lowest friction and oil flow are highly correlated with surfaces having smoother plateaus and smaller valleys, finished by using lower base honing pressure and longer plateau honing time. High correlations between the 3D roughness parameters were also found, enabling the selection and use of more stable and robust parameters in the quality control of the liner’s surface finish.
Harmonic-analysis-based method for separation of form error during evaluation of high-speed spindle radial errors
Authors: Denis S A , Samuel G L
Published: February 2012

The measurement and evaluation of spindle errors is an important task in the assessment of the accuracy of machine tools. The commonly followed capacitive-sensor-based measurement technique requires a comprehensive error separation method for the identification of the unwanted contributions of centering error, the form error of the artifact and thermal drift. This paper presents a method for form error separation that is suitable for the evaluation of the radial error of high-speed spindles. In the present work, a fixed sensitive radial error motion test is conducted using a capacitive sensor and a cylindrical artifact at different spindle speeds. A mathematical model consisting of a second-order polynomial and Fourier series function is used to interpret the data measured in the time domain. The form profile of the artifact is measured separately in a roundness tester using a capacitive sensor. A harmonic analysis method is proposed to identify and separate the dominant harmonic components in the form profile of the artifact. A mathematical description of the proposed method is described and experimental results are presented. Application of the proposed method to the evaluation of the synchronous radial error of a high-spindle is provided for measured data. The proposed method analyzes the data measured in the time domain and is suitable for the identification of the spindle errors at high-speed conditions.
Influencing governance of a public-private partnership in plant genomics: The societal interface group as a new instrument for public involvement
Authors: Hanssen Lucien , Gremmen Bart
Published: February 2012

The Centre for BioSystems Genomics (CBSG) is a Dutch public-private partnership in plant genomics active in potato and tomato research and exploitation. Its Societal Interface Group (SIG) has been developed to inform its communication strategy and governance practice. This new instrument identifies and discusses early signals from society by bringing together people from different societal backgrounds with members of CBSG management. This interactive learning process facilitates the inclusion of public concerns and needs in scientific developments in the field of plant genomics, and simultaneously enables genomics scientists to search for more societal aims, meanings, and starting points for their research agenda. Analysis of the SIG sessions revealed that the input of public expertise is not threatening or irrational, but provides the opportunity to harness the creative potential of future users highly relevant for the development of societal practices in which plant genomics plays a role.
City festivals and urban development: does place matter?
Authors: Van Aalst Irina , van Melik Rianne
Published: February 2012

After 30 years in the Dutch city of The Hague, the North Sea Jazz Festival (NSJF) has left its birthplace, prompted by the partial demolition of its venue. Although the current organizer of this premier international jazz festival, Mojo Concerts, would have preferred to relocate it within the city, the local government was unable to retain it. The move to Rotterdam in 2006 illustrates the process whereby cities actively compete for festivals. This paper examines the place dependency of a jazz festival by juxtaposing the perspectives of key actors: the local government of the two host cities, The Hague and Rotterdam; the festival organizer Mojo Concerts; and the visitors to the NSJF. The relocation is explained in light of the motives of the stakeholders and the perception of the audience, as gleaned from in-depth interviews and a large-scale survey held before and after the move. The interviews indicate that local governments regard festivals as important urban showcases, although the survey reveals that the direct links between the festival and host city are weak. The conclusions connect insights from the case study to the scant literature on the extent to which place really matters for a festival and vice versa.
Beta-hemolytic Streptococcus spp. from horses
Authors: Erol Erdal , Locke Stephan J. , Donahoe Judy K. , Mackin Mary A. , Carter Craig N.
Published: February 2012

The goal of this retrospective study was to have a comprehensive picture of the β-hemolytic streptococci of horses including tissue/organ distributions and susceptibility patterns against specific antimicrobials between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2010. A total of 2,497 β-hemolytic streptococci were isolated from 2,391 cases, of which Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus was the most frequent isolate (72.0%). Other species isolated were Streptococcus dysgalactia subsp. equisimilis (21.3%), Streptococcus equi subsp. equi (5.8%), and unidentified β-hemolytic streptococci (0.9%). As expected, S. equi was mostly isolated from lymph node abscesses and the respiratory tract in foals and adult horses. Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus and S. equisimilis were mostly isolated from placenta, fetal tissues, and genital tract of horses; S. zooepidemicus and S. equisimilis were also recovered in significant numbers from a number of other organs including lung, liver, brain, kidney, and joints, indicating a much broader tissue tropism than S. equi. In addition, more than 1 Streptococcus spp. was recovered in 106 cases, indicating the co-existence of these bacteria in some horses. This data also suggested that S. equisimilis is a major bacterial agent of horses, contrary to present knowledge. Based on Kirby-Bauer antimicrobial susceptibility data, streptococci were found to be generally susceptible to cephalothin, erythromycin, nitrofurantoin, penicillin, and ticarcillin and clavulanate. Resistance to antimicrobials has not developed over the years, except for gentamicin and tetracycline against S. equisimilis.
Evaluation of the automated hematology analyzer Sysmex XT-2000iV™ compared to the ADVIA® 2120 for its use in dogs, cats, and horses. Part II
Authors: Bauer Natali , Nakagawa Julia , Dunker Cathrin , Failing Klaus , Moritz Andreas
Published: February 2012

The automated laser-based hematology analyzer Sysmex XT-2000 iV™ provides a 5-part differential count and specific cytograms that are of great interest for large veterinary laboratories. The aim of the study was to validate the Sysmex XT-2000 iV compared to the laser-based hematology analyzer ADVIA® 2120 and manual differential in dogs, cats, and horses as well as the impact of anticoagulant (heparin, ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid [EDTA], and citrate) and storage at 22°C and 4°C. Consecutive fresh K3–EDTA blood samples from 216 cats, 314 dogs, and 174 horses were included. The impact of anticoagulant and sample storage was assessed in specimens obtained from an additional 9 cats, 10 dogs, and 10 horses. Agreement between both analyzers was excellent to good except for monocytes and canine reticulocytes. Spearman rank correlation coefficients ( rs) between Sysmex XT-2000 iV and manual differential were good to fair and ranged from 0.91 (cat lymphocytes) to 0.44 (cat monocytes). Hematocrit value (Hct), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), MCH concentration (MCHC; all: P < 0.001), and mean corpuscular volume (MCV; P < 0.01) were higher in canine citrated blood compared to heparin and EDTA. In cats, lymphocytes and monocytes were lower in heparinized blood compared to EDTA ( P < 0.05), whereas in horses no significant effect was seen. Regarding storage time and temperature, white and red blood cell counts, hemoglobin, and MCH were stable. Hct, MCV, and MCHC were influenced by erythrocyte swelling. Differential count remained stable for 24 hr (22°C) and nearly 72 hr (4°C) except for monocytes. The overall performance of the Sysmex XT-2000 iV was excellent and compared favorably with that of the ADVIA 2120. A special strength was the excellent detection of feline eosinophils.
The laterally attached tartaric acid of polyurethane copolymer and its impact on shape memory and low-temperature flexibility
Authors: Chung Yong-Chan , Choi Jae Won , Lee Dong Hyung , Chun Byoung Chul
Published: February 2012

The tartaric acid was laterally attached to polyurethane through the carbamate of polyurethane, and the impact on the shape-memory and tensile properties of polyurethane was investigated. The electrostatic repulsion of the tartarate could reduce the molecular interactions between polyurethanes, a result that was designed to improve low-temperature flexibility while maintaining high and reproducible tensile strength and shape recovery above room temperature. The attachment of the tartaric acid was quantitatively determined by acid–base titration, and the change in the molecular interaction between hard segments was confirmed via infrared spectroscopy. Both cross-linking density and viscosity experienced an unusual increase with increasing tartarate content due to partial cross-linking caused by the grafting reagent. Shape recovery and retention were reproducible over repeated shape-memory tests. Finally, the low-temperature flexibility was determined at −10°C, and the reason for the difference was discussed.
Perceptions of News Media, External Efficacy, and Public Affairs Apathy in Political Decision Making and Disaffection
Authors: Pinkleton Bruce E. , Austin Erica Weintraub , Zhou Yushu , Willoughby Jessica Fitts , Reiser Megan
Published: February 2012

A telephone survey of 416 randomly selected registered voters examined the distinctive contributions of cynicism and skepticism to citizens’ media satisfaction, external political efficacy, and apathy. Results suggest that cynicism and skepticism reflect dissatisfaction with media coverage, but have opposite effects on external efficacy. Cynicism has no relationship with apathy, while skepticism decreases it. Satisfaction with news media increases efficacy and apathy. Although cynicism’s relationship to efficacy is of concern, these findings undercut the argument frequently made that dissatisfaction with media coverage is responsible for cynicism and political apathy.
Will You Be on Our Board of Directors? We Need Help
Authors: Simmons Charlene
Published: February 2012

Over the last two decades, media companies have faced profound environmental changes, including corporate consolidation and media convergence. Research in other industries has shown that corporations facing environmental changes often respond by altering the composition of their board of directors. This article, using a twenty-year longitudinal study of seventeen corporations, found that to some degree, media companies use their boards to gain access to resources, including financial capital and industry knowledge, to deal with environmental change.
Party systems and cleavage structures revisited
Authors: Bértoa Fernando Casal
Published: February 2012

Since Lipset and Rokkan (1967) published their seminal work on the importance of social cleavages for the ‘freezing’ of party systems more than forty years ago, much has been written on the field demonstrating or discrediting the original hypothesis. In the current article, I examine how cleavage formation and development have influenced the different levels of institutionalization in four new post-communist party systems (i.e. Visegrad). Analysing distinct hypotheses, I arrive at the conclusion that neither the number nor the type nor the strength of a cleavage is associated with the degree of party system institutionalization in East Central Europe. On the contrary, the main conclusion is that party system institutionalization in these democracies has been determined by the way cleavages are structured. In particular, the process of party system institutionalization is found to be hindered when cleavages cross-cut, while fostered in cases where they cumulate (i.e. coincide).
Doll therapy: A therapeutic means to meet past attachment needs and diminish behaviours of concern in a person living with dementia – a case study approach
Authors: Bisiani Leah , Angus Jocelyn
Published: February 2012

The aim of this research study was to examine the impact of the provision of a lifelike baby doll as a therapeutic tool on the behaviour of a person living with dementia. Specifically, this single case study assessed the potential benefits, if any, of the use of doll therapy in reducing behaviours of concern such as anxiety and agitation that may be associated with observed attachment needs of a person living with dementia.

Method:

A single case study of a female participant, with moderately advanced Alzheimer’s disease, was the subject of this research. The case study used both qualitative and quantitative research design and methodology in data collection and analysis.

Results:

Demonstrated that doll therapy was a positive intervention for the person living with dementia who was the participant in this research. The findings indicate a reduction in behaviours of concern related to the need for attachment and a considerable decline in levels of anxiety and agitation. There was extensive ongoing improvement in social interaction and communication.

Conclusion:

This research supports doll therapy as a therapeutic intervention that may be utilized within the ongoing care of some persons with dementia to meet needs for attachment and to reduce behaviours of concern. Despite some controversy on this topic, doll therapy should be considered as a therapeutic approach to further dementia care in light of this positive outcome.
Inappropriate sexual behaviour and dementia: An exploration of staff experiences
Authors: Hayward Laura E , Robertson Noelle , Knight Caroline
Published: February 2012

Research assessing the impact of inappropriate sexual behaviour (ISB) on staff working in dementia care is circumscribed, yet studies from comparable settings indicate that ISB appears uniquely challenging, particularly to personal and cultural values. This study explored staff experiences of ISB exhibited by older adults with a dementia. Fourteen staff working within an in-patient setting were interviewed. Participants’ experiences of ISB appeared underpinned by complex social and psychological processes. Shock, embarrassment and incomprehension were prominent when ISB was initially encountered. Knowledge of dementia, familiarity with patients and social norms were important in contextualising ISB and staff often minimised its impact by construing a lack of capacity. Feelings about ISB appeared equivocal and findings suggest that the effect of ISB should be routinely considered in preparing staff who work within dementia care.
Perceived barriers to self-management for people with dementia in the early stages
Authors: Martin Faith , Turner Andrew , Wallace Louise M , Choudhry Kubra , Bradbury Nicola
Published: February 2012

People with dementia in the early stages currently experience a care gap, which self-management may address. We explore perceived barriers to self-management. Using a systematic approach (logic mapping), 19 participants (people with dementia, carers, health care professionals and charity representatives) described self-management barriers facing people living with dementia. Thematic content analysis revealed six main themes: the lived experience of dementia, diagnosis, role of carer/family, impact of health care professionals, organisation of health services and societal views. People with dementia were seen as passive recipients of care, unable to self-manage owing to the impact of dementia on cognitive abilities. The need for interventions that are largely emotion focused, encourage activity maintenance and improve quality of life are described. Barriers to self-management exist at multiple levels, suggesting a whole-systems approach is required.
Is Four Twice as Nice as Two? A Natural Experiment on Electoral Effects of Term Length
Authors: Gaines Brian J. , Nokken Timothy P. , Groebe Collin
Published: February 2012

In Illinois and Texas, senate elections return members to serve terms of different length. Because term length schedules are randomized, these states provide a natural experiment. Cross-sectional comparison of chambers requires statistical controls for myriad factors that distinguish cases (chambers or periods). These two chambers, by contrast, produce direct evidence of term length's impact on electoral behavior. We test hypotheses about term length's impact on candidacies, campaign expenditures, and voter participation with data from 1968 to 2010. Surprisingly, there is little evidence of any significant differences between contests for two-year and four-year terms.
Interdisciplinary Lymphology
Authors: Foeldi Ethel , Dimakakos Evangelos P.
Published: February 2012

The term lymphology includes both the physiology and the pathology of the lymphatic system. Many disciplines are involved in the study of the lymphatic system, to correctly diagnose lymphatic diseases and to ultimate provide the best available treatment for the patient. Lymphedema is one of the most common lymphatic diseases, potentially causing significant problems for the patient and for the health system in general. The aim of this article is to discuss the best placement and role for each discipline within an interdisciplinary team in order to provide an effective management of lymphedema and related lymphatic diseases.
Cytotoxic and Apoptotic Effects of Ethyl Acetate Extract of Elephantopus mollis Kunth. in Human Liver Carcinoma HepG2 Cells Through Caspase-3 Activation
Authors: Ooi Kheng Leong , Tengku Muhammad Tengku Sifzizul , Lam Lee Yein , Sulaiman Shaida Fariza
Published: February 2012

Previous cytotoxic (anticancer) evaluations of Elephantopus mollis were mainly focused on its elephantopin derivatives neglecting the combined effect of the phytochemicals in its traditionally used extracts. In this study, the cytotoxic mechanism of its extracts was investigated using methylene blue assay. The cytotoxic screening results revealed the ethyl acetate extract as the most potent extract by displaying prominent dose-dependent and time-dependent growth inhibitions in human liver carcinoma HepG2 cells with the lowest EC50 value of 9.38 ± 0.43 µg/mL after 72 hours of treatment. Acute exposure of the HepG2 cells to the ethyl acetate extract produced a significant regulation of caspase-3 with the peak expression at 8 hours of treatment ( P < .05). DNA fragmentation indicated by DeadEnd Apoptosis Detection System–labeled nuclei cells confirmed that the extract induced apoptotic cell death through caspase-3-dependent pathway in HepG2 cells.
Gendered Physical and Emotional Health Consequences of Situational Couple Violence for Heterosexual Married and Cohabiting Couples
Authors: Sillito Carrie
Published: February 2012

Research of intimate partner abuse has not adequately assessed the role of gender in situational couple violence (SCV). This research examines gendered effects of SCV on outcomes using longitudinal data from the United States National Survey of Family and Households. Results show gender asymmetries in physical health, depression, and fear outcomes of respondents exposed to SCV. Women exposed to physical SCV are less likely to report good physical health and more likely to report depression and fear than control-group women. No significant relationships are found for men. Implications suggest inclusion of outcomes when assessing gender symmetry in intimate partner abuse.
Periosteal Osteosarcoma of the Calcaneum
Authors: Singh Daljit , Sen Ramesh , Chaudhary Susheel , Tripathy Sujit Kumar
Published: February 2012

A 30-year-old woman presented with a 6-month history of pain and swelling over the sole of her right foot. Plain radiograph showed a calcified mass in the heel pad, which appeared to be arising from the spur on inferior aspect of calcaneum. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a lesion, hypointense on T1-weighted and hyperintense on T2-weighted images over the plantar aspect of the foot. Open biopsy of the mass was indicative of periosteal osteosarcoma, the variety that has never been reported in calcaneum. Below-knee amputation was done with no recurrence or distance metastasis seen at 24 months of follow up.

Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV
Pattern recognition and cellular immune responses to novel Mycobacterium tuberculosis-antigens in individuals from Belarus
Authors: Ahmed Raija K , Rohava Zoyia , Balaji Kithiganahalli N , Hoffner Sven E , Gaines Hans , Magalhaes Isabelle , Zumla Alimuddin , Skrahina Alena , Maeurer Markus J
Published: February 2012

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is an enduring health problem worldwide and the emerging threat of multidrug resistant (MDR) TB and extensively drug resistant (XDR) TB is of particular concern. A better understanding of biomarkers associated with TB will aid to guide the development of better targets for TB diagnosis and for the development of improved TB vaccines.

Methods

Recombinant proteins (n = 7) and peptide pools (n = 14) fromM. tuberculosis(M.tb) antigens associated withM.tbpathogenicity, modification of cell lipids or cellular metabolism, were used to compare T cell immune responses defined by IFN-γ production using a whole blood assay (WBA) from i) patients with TB, ii) individuals recovered from TB and iii) individuals exposed to TB without evidence of clinical TB infection from Minsk, Belarus.

Results

We identified differences inM.tbtarget peptide recognition between the test groups, i.e. a frequent recognition of antigens associated with lipid metabolism, e.g. cyclopropane fatty acyl phospholipid synthase. The pattern of peptide recognition was broader in blood from healthy individuals and those recovered from TB as compared to individuals suffering from pulmonary TB. Detection of biologically relevantM.tbtargets was confirmed by staining for intracellular cytokines (IL-2, TNF-α and IFN-γ) in T cells from non-human primates (NHPs) after BCG vaccination.

Conclusions

PBMCs from healthy individuals and those recovered from TB recognized a broader spectrum ofM.tbantigens as compared to patients with TB. The nature of the pattern recognition of a broad panel ofM.tbantigens will devise better strategies to identify improved diagnostics gauging previous exposure toM.tb; it may also guide the development of improved TB-vaccines.
The development of a lay health worker delivered collaborative community based intervention for people with schizophrenia in India
Authors: Balaji Madhumitha , Chatterjee Sudipto , Koschorke Mirja , Rangaswamy Thara , Chavan Animish , Dabholkar Hamid , Dakshin Lilly , Kumar Pratheesh , John Sujit , Thornicroft Graham , Patel Vikram
Published: February 2012

Background

Care for schizophrenia in low and middle income countries is predominantly facility based and led by specialists, with limited use of non-pharmacological treatments. Although community based psychosocial interventions are emphasised, there is little evidence about their acceptability and feasibility. Furthermore, the shortage of skilled manpower is a major barrier to improving access to these interventions. Our study aimed to develop a lay health worker delivered community based intervention in three sites in India. This paper describes how the intervention was developed systematically, following the MRC framework for the development of complex interventions.

Methods

We reviewed the lierature on the burden of schizophrenia and the treatment gap in low and middle income countries and the evidence for community based treatments, and identified intervention components. We then evaluated the acceptability and feasibility of this package of care through formative case studies with individuals with schizophrenia and their primary caregivers and piloted its delivery with 30 families.

Results

Based on the reviews, our intervention comprised five components (psycho-education; adherence management; rehabilitation; referral to community agencies; and health promotion) to be delivered by trained lay health workers supervised by specialists. The intervention underwent a number of changes as a result of formative and pilot work. While all the components were acceptable and most were feasible, experiences of stigma and discrimination were inadequately addressed; some participants feared that delivery of care at home would lead to illness disclosure; some participants and providers did not understand how the intervention related to usual care; some families were unwilling to participate; and there were delivery problems, for example, in meeting the targeted number of sessions. Participants found delivery by health workers acceptable, and expected them to have knowledge about the subject matter. Some had expectations regarding their demographic and personal characteristics, for example, preferring only females or those who are understanding/friendly. New components to address stigma were then added to the intervention, the collaborative nature of service provision was strengthened, a multi-level supervision system was developed, and delivery of components was made more flexible. Criteria were evolved for the selection and training of the health workers based on participants' expectations.

Conclusions

A multi-component community based intervention, targeting multiple outcomes, and delivered by trained lay health workers, supervised by mental health specialists, is an acceptable and feasible intervention for treating schizophrenia in India.
Attenuation of influenza virus infectivity with herbal-marine compound (HESA-A): an in vitro study in MDCK cells
Authors: Mehrbod Parvaneh , Ideris Aini , Omar Rahman Rahman , Hair-Bejo Mohd , Tan Sheau Wei , Kheiri Masoumeh Tavassoti , Tabatabaian Mansoureh
Published: February 2012

Background

The influenza virus is still one of the most important respiratory risks affecting humans which require effective treatments. In this case, traditional medications are of interest. HESA-A is an active natural biological compound from herbal-marine origin. Previous studies have reported that the therapeutic properties of HESA-A are able to treat psoriasis vulgaris and cancers. However, no antiviral properties have been reported.

Methods

This study was designed to investigate the potential antiviral properties of HESA-A and its effects in modulating TNF-α and IL-6 cytokine levels. HESA-A was prepared in normal saline as a stock solution (0.8 mg/ml, pH = 7.4). Percentages of cell survival when exposed to different concentrations of HESA-A at different time intervals was determined by MTT assay. To study the potential antiviral activity of HESA-A, Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells were treated with the effective concentration (EC50) of HESA-A (0.025 mg/ml) and 100 TCID50/0.1 ml of virus sample under different types of exposure.

Results

Based on the MTT method and hemagglutination assay (HA), HESA-A is capable of improving cell viability to 31% and decreasing HA titre to almost 99% in co-penetration exposures. In addition, based on quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), it was found that HESA-A causes decrements in TNF-α and IL-6 cytokine expressions, which was significant for TNF-α (p ≤ 0.05) but not for IL-6.

Conclusion

In conclusion, HESA-A was effective against influenza infection through suppressing cytokine expression.
Evaluation of immune responses to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in pigs during early stage of infection under farm conditions
Authors: Dwivedi Varun , Manickam Cordelia , Binjawadagi Basavaraj , Linhares Daniel , Murtaugh Michael P , Renukaradhya Gourapura J
Published: February 2012

Background

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) causes chronic, economically devastating disease in pigs of all ages. Frequent mutations in the viral genome result in viruses with immune escape mutants. Irrespective of regular vaccination, control of PRRSV remains a challenge to swine farmers. In PRRSV-infected pigs, innate cytokine IFN-α is inhibited and the adaptive arm of the immunity is delayed. To elucidate both cellular and innate cytokine responses at very early stages of PRRSV infection, seven weeks old pigs maintained on a commercial pig farm were infected and analyzed.

Results

One pig in a pen containing 25 pigs was PRRSV infected and responses from this pig and one penmate were assessed two days later. All the infected and a few of the contact neighbor pigs were viremic. At day 2 post-infection, approximately 50% of viremic pigs had greater than 50% reduction in NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and nearly a 1-fold increase in IFN-α production was detected in blood of a few pigs. Enhanced secretion of IL-4 (in ~90%), IL-12 (in ~40%), and IL-10 (in ~20%) (but not IFN-γ) in PRRSV infected pigs was observed. In addition, reduced frequency of myeloid cells, CD4-CD8+T cells, and CD4+CD8+T cells and upregulated frequency of lymphocytes bearing natural T regulatory cell phenotype were detected in viremic pigs. Interestingly, all viremic contact pigs also had comparable immune cell modulations.

Conclusion

Replicating PRRSV in both infected and contact pigs was found to be responsible for rapid modulation in NK cell-meditated cytotoxicity and alteration in the production of important immune cytokines. PRRSV-induced immunological changes observed simultaneously at both cellular and cytokine levels early post-infection appear to be responsible for the delay in generation of adaptive immunity. As the study was performed in pigs maintained under commercial environmental conditions, this study has practical implications in design of protective vaccines.
Sentinel events and predictors of suicide among inpatients at psychiatric hospitals
Authors: Chen Yi-Lung , Tzeng Dong-Sheng , Cheng Ting-Sheng , Lin Chien-Hung
Published: February 2012

Background

The objective of this study was to assess sentinel event analysis and relative factors in different mental healthcare settings. In addition, the occurrence of sentinel events in different hospital settings was compared and potential risk factors contributing to sentinel events identified.

Methods

A total of 75 consecutive adult subjects were enrolled from 2 psychiatric units, 1 within a general hospital and 1 at a psychiatric hospital in southern Taiwan. A retrospective chart review of the psychiatric inpatients was conducted for patients that met the criteria for a sentinel event between July 2004 and May 2011. A comparison of the hospital settings was made and differences between suicidal and non-suicidal sentinel events studied.

Results

Psychiatric patients that received general hospital psychiatric services (1) appeared to experience a sentinel event soon after admission, (2) the time between the sentinel event occurrence and patient death was shorter, (3) there was a higher probability of potential medical illness than among inpatients treated at a specialized psychiatric hospital, (4) the sentinel event subjects that committed suicide were younger, had a shorter hospital stay, shorter time to occurrence of the sentinel event followed by an unexpected death than the non-suicidal group, and (5) a younger age, higher education level, previous suicide attempt and family psychiatric history were important predictors of suicide among psychiatric inpatients.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that psychiatric inpatients treated at a general hospital require careful examination for potential physical illness and greater efforts to prevent suicide. A younger age, higher education level, history of a previous suicide attempt and family psychiatric history are additional risk factors for suicide among these patients.
Acute and late toxicities of radiotherapy for patients with discoid lupus erythematosus: a retrospective case-control study
Authors: Patel Ajaykumar B , Hallemeier Christopher L , Petersen Ivy A , Jensen Ashley W , Osborn Thomas G , Miller Robert C
Published: February 2012

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate acute and late toxicities of radiotherapy for patients with discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE).

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of patients with DLE who received radiotherapy at our institution between 1980 and 2005. Patients with other connective tissue disorders were excluded. Control patients were matched 2:1 with the DLE treatment courses based on age, cancer diagnosis, year of treatment, radiotherapy dose, and sex. Acute (within 30 days from the completion of radiotherapy) and late toxicities were evaluated for each treatment course using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events Version 3.0.

Results

Twelve patients with DLE received a total of 15 radiotherapy courses. The median follow-up time was 2.6 years (range, 0.0-15.2 years). Acute toxicity of any organ was observed in 10 (67%) treatment courses, of which 2 (13%) were Grade 3 or higher. Acute Grade 1 or 2 dermatologic toxicity was observed in 8 courses (53%). Late toxicity of any organ was observed in 7 of 12 (58%) evaluable treatment courses, of which 3 (23%) were grade 3 or higher. Late grade 1 or 2 dermatologic toxicity was observed in 5 (42%) courses. No patient experienced acute or late Grade 3 or higher dermatologic toxicity. The rates of any organ or dermatologic acute and late toxicity were not significantly different between DLE and control treatment courses.

Conclusions

Our findings do not suggest an increased risk of toxicity to the skin or other organs in patients with DLE receiving radiotherapy.
BK viremia in critically ill surgical patients with hemorrhagic or septic shock
Authors: Nass Maximilian , Weissbrich Benedikt , Huber Moritz , Schneider Elisabeth Marion , Weiss Manfred
Published: February 2012

Background

Infections with polyomavirus BK virus (BKV) are a common cause of renal dysfunction after renal transplantation and may also be harmful in surgical patients with shock. The aim of the present study was to determine the frequency of BKV viremia in critically ill surgical patients with septic or hemorrhagic shock, and, if viremia is detectable, whether viremia may be associated with renal dysfunction.

Findings

A total of 125 plasma samples from 44 critically ill surgical patients with septic or hemorrhagic shock were tested by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for BKV DNA during their stay on the intensive care unit (ICU). BKV viremia occurred in four patients, i.e. in three of the septic and in one of the hemorrhagic shock group. There was no association between viremia and renal dysfunction. All positive samples contained a low viral load (< 500 copies/ml).

Conclusions

Since BK viremia was rarely found and with low viral load only in critically ill surgical patients with shock, it is very unlikely that BK viremia results in BK nephropathy later on.
Development of 4H-pyridopyrimidines: a class of selective bacterial protein synthesis inhibitors
Authors: Guiles Joseph W , Toro Andras , Ochsner Urs A , Bullard James M
Published: February 2012

Background

We have identified a series of compounds that inhibit protein synthesis in bacteria. Initial IC50's in aminoacylation/translation (A/T) assays ranged from 3 to14 μM. This series of compounds are variations on a 5,6,7,8-tetrahydropyrido[4,3-d]pyrimidin-4-ol scaffold (e.g., 4H-pyridopyrimidine).

Methods

Greater than 80 analogs were prepared to investigate the structure-activity relationship (SAR). Structural modifications included changes in the central ring and substituent modifications in its periphery focusing on the 2- and 6-positions. An A/T system was used to determine IC50 values for activity of the analogs in biochemical assays. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were determined for each analog against cultures of Enterococcus faecalis, Moraxella catarrhalis, Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli tolC mutants and E. coli modified with PMBN.

Results

Modifications to the 2-(pyridin-2-yl) ring resulted in complete inactivation of the compounds. However, certain modifications at the 6-position resulted in increased antimicrobial potency. The optimized compounds inhibited the growth of E. faecalis, M. catarrhalis, H. influenzae, S. pneumoniae, S. aureus, E. coli tolC, mutants and E. coli modified with PMBN with MIC values of 4, ≤ 0.12, 1, 2, 4, 1, 1 μg/ml, respectively. IC50 values in biochemical assay were reduced to mid-nanomolar range.

Conclusion

4H-pyridopyrimidine analogs demonstrate broad-spectrum inhibition of bacterial growth and modification of the compounds establishes SAR.
The role of airborne geophysics for detecting hydrocarbon microseepages and related structural features: The case of Remanso do Fogo, Brazil
Authors: Curto Julia B. , Pires Augusto C.B. , Silva Adalene M. , Crósta Álvaro P.
Published: February 2012

The first direct indication of hydrocarbon occurrence in Remanso do Fogo area (Minas Gerais State, Brazil) was the existence of microseepages. However, Quaternary sedimentary cover in the area made the identification of new occurrences and associated controlling structures quite difficult. This study investigated the spatial distribution of hydrocarbon related gases in shallower to intrasedimentary depths in Remanso do Fogo area, using airborne gamma-ray spectrometry and magnetic data. The geophysical data were processed using techniques designed to suppress the influence of regional geological signatures. Known and possible new occurrences of microseepages were detected by mapping low residual potassium values and high uranium residual values in relation to potassium, termed as DRAD values, which resulted from the subtraction of potassium from uranium residual values, using a Thorium (Th)-normalizing approach. The validation of these occurrences was done based on existing gas geochemistry data in the soil. For the magnetic data, the amplitude of the analytic signal, combined with the total horizontal gradient of the subtraction between the 1200- and 400-meter upward continuations, enhanced the northwest–southeast and east–west magnetic lineaments, which are partially related to the microseepages and the drainage of the area. The distinction of near-surface and deep signatures also allowed the general identification of intrasedimentary and basement structures, which are potentially controlling the occurrences of seepages in the area.
Multiscattering illumination in blended acquisition
Authors: Berkhout A. J. , Blacquière G. , Verschuur D. J.
Published: February 2012

In traditional seismic surveys, the firing time between shots is such that the shot records do not interfere in time. However, in the concept of blended acquisition, the records do overlap, allowing denser source sampling and wider azimuths in an economic way. A denser shot sampling and wider azimuths make that each subsurface gridpoint is illuminated from a larger number of angles and will therefore improve the image quality in terms of signal-to-noise ratio and spatial resolution. We show that — even with very simple blending parameters like time delays — the incident wavefield at a specific subsurface gridpoint represents a dispersed time series with a “complex code”. For shot-record migration purposes, this time series must have a stable inverse. In a next step, we show that the illumination can be further improved by utilizing the surface-related multiples. This means that these multiples can be exploited to improve the incident wavefield by filling angle gaps in the illumination and/or by extending the range of angles. In this way, the energy contained in the multiples now contributes to the image, rather than decreasing its quality. One remarkable consequence of this property is that the benefits to be obtained from the improved illumination depend on the detector locations in acquisition geometries as well. We show how to quantify the contribution of the blended surface multiples to the illuminating wavefield for a blended source configuration. Results confirm that the combination of blending and multiple scattering increases the illumination energy and, therefore, will improve the quality of shot-record migration results beyond today’s capability.
Evidence for lysosomal exocytosis and release of aggrecan-degrading hydrolases from hypertrophic chondrocytes, in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Bastow Edward R. , Last Karena , Golub Sue , Stow Jennifer L. , Stanley Amanda C. , Fosang Amanda J.
Published: February 2012

The abundant proteoglycan, aggrecan, is resorbed from growth plate cartilage during endochondral bone ossification, yet mice with genetically-ablated aggrecan-degrading activity have no defects in bone formation. To account for this apparent anomaly, we propose that lysosomal hydrolases degrade extracellular, hyaluronan-bound aggrecan aggregates in growth plate cartilage, and that lysosomal hydrolases are released from hypertrophic chondrocytes into growth plate cartilage via Ca2+-dependent lysosomal exocytosis. In this study we confirm that hypertrophic chondrocytes release hydrolases via lysosomal exocytosis in vitro and we show in vivo evidence for lysosomal exocytosis in hypertrophic chondrocytes during skeletal development. We show that lysosome-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1) is detected at the cell surface following in vitro treatment of epiphyseal chondrocytes with the calcium ionophore, ionomycin. Furthermore, we show that in addition to the lysosomal exocytosis markers, cathepsin D and β-hexosaminidase, ionomycin induces release of aggrecan- and hyaluronan-degrading activity from cultured epiphyseal chondrocytes. We identify VAMP-8 and VAMP7 as v-SNARE proteins with potential roles in lysosomal exocytosis in hypertrophic chondrocytes, based on their colocalisation with LAMP1 at the cell surface in secondary ossification centers in mouse tibiae. We propose that resorbing growth plate cartilage involves release of destructive hydrolases from hypertrophic chondrocytes, via lysosomal exocytosis.