bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scara5 involvement in retinal iron metabolism
Authors: MENDES‐JORGE L , VALENÇA A , RAMOS D , LOPEZ‐LUPPO M , CATITA J , PIRES VMR , NACHER V , NAVARRO M , CARRETERO A , RODRIGUEZ‐BAEZA A , RUBERTE J
Published: November 2013

Purpose Although transferrin is the principal source of iron in mammalian cells, recently, ferritin was proposed as a new iron transporter protein. Serum ferritin is composed mostly, but not exclusively, of L‐ferritin, and in the presence of even a single H‐ferritin chain, up to 4500 atoms of iron can be incorporated into one ferritin molecule. As each transferrin molecule only binds to two iron atoms, serum ferritin can be regarded as a potential deliverer of a considerable large amount of iron to tissues. Iron implication in oxidative damage has become clear, and it is well known that iron accumulation is associated in the retina with several retinopathies.

Methods Scara5 and L‐ferritin expression in the retina were studied by means of laser confocal microscopy, rt‐PCR and Western Blotting in ICR adult mice and in a murine model of retinopathy. Horse spleen ferritin was intravenously injected in healthy ICR adult mice and alteration in iron handling proteins expression was analyzed.

Results Scara5 receptors, that specifically bind to L‐ferritin, were found in retinal endothelial and perivascular cells. Intravenous injected ferritin crossed the blood‐retinal barrier (BRB), through Scara5 receptor binding, and accumulated in these cells, suggesting that serum ferritin, mostly composed by L‐ferritin, can be transported across the BRB into the retinal parenchyma. During retinopathy, alterations in L‐ferritin levels and Scara5 expression were evaluated.

Conclusion Serum ferritin uptake could represent a new pathway of iron delivery to the retina and points out perivascular cells as a key element in retinal iron traffic and during retinal iron accumulation associated with some retinopathies.
The LentiVector® gene therapy platform for ocular disease: A clinical update
Authors: ELLIS S
Published: November 2013

The LentiVector® Gene Therapy Platform for Ocular Disease: a clinical update Oxford BioMedica currently has three ocular therapies in clinical development using the LentiVector® platform: RetinoStat®, StarGenT and UshStat®, for the treatment of age‐related macular degeneration, Stargardt macula dystrophy and Usher Syndrome 1B respectively. A clinical update of these trials will be given.
RESVEGA, by the presence of Resveratrol, inhibits retinal endothelial tube formation
Authors: OLMIERE C , CLERC A , LECONTE L
Published: November 2013

Purpose Resveratrol (RES) is a polyphenol with various properties. RESVEGA, a food supplement developed by Thea, contains 2% of RES. The aim of this study was to examine the activity of RES and RESVEGA on endothelial cells.

Methods Compounds activity was tested using an in vitro angiogenesis assay. Endothelial cells obtained from human umbilical vein (HUVEC) and monkey retinal endothelial cells (RF/6A) were used for this assay. 96‐well cell cultures plates were coated with Matrigel. Cells (15000 per well) were incubated in the presence of RES, RESVEGA or vehicle. Tube formation was recorded every 15 min during 5 hours using Time Lapse Video Microscopy. At each time point, 3 fields per well were photographed and images were analysed using Metamorph software. Each experiment was repeated three times, with triplicate samples.

Results RES and RESVEGA products activities were compared at the following concentrations: 25, 50 and 100 µM. Both RES, tested on HUVEC and RF/6A, and RESVEGA, tested on RF/6A, reduced the ability of endothelial cells to form vascular networks on Matrigel. This inhibitory effect was dose dependent in the range of 25‐100 µM.

Conclusion This is the first report of the anti‐angiogenic effect of RES on RF/6A retinal endothelial cells. RESVEGA supplement presents the same anti‐angiogenic activity than resveratrol alone.

Commercial interest
Retinal vessel oxygen saturation in retinitis pigmentosa patients
Authors: TüRKSEVER C , VALMAGGIA C , ORGUEL S , SCHORDERT DF , TODOROVA MG
Published: November 2013

Purpose To study the retinal oxygen saturation in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP).

Methods Retinal Vessel Oximetry was performed with the oximetry tool of Retinal Vessel Analyzer (Imedos GmbH, Jena, Germany) on 12 eyes of 6 RP patients and on 24 eyes of 12 age‐matched healthy controls (p=0.747, two‐way ANOVA). RP patients were selected following a clinical and electrophysiological assessment. We evaluated the mean oxygen saturation of arteries (A‐SO2), the mean oxygen saturation of veins (V‐SO2), as well as the A‐V‐SO2 difference and compared them to the ERG values within both groups.

Results In controls, the mean A‐SO2 and V‐SO2 of the retina was 92.41% (SD, ±3.54) and at 53.99% (SD, ±2.95), respectively. In the RP group, the A‐SO2 and the V‐SO2 were increased to 100.13% (SD, ±7.24) and 66.96% (SD, ±5.67), respectively (p‐values=0.000). The A‐V‐SO2 difference, known to be proportional to oxygen consumption, was reduced to 33.17% (SD, ±5.85) in RP when compared to the controls 38.39% (SD, ±3.00) in a linear regression model (p=0.001). The b‐wave of the dark‐adapted 3.0 ERG response compared to A‐SO2, V‐SO2, as well as A‐ V‐SO2 difference within both groups, showed a linear correlation of: r=‐0.571, r=‐0.846, and r=0.531, respectively with the corresponding p‐values <0.003. The b‐wave of the light‐adapted 3.0 ERG response compared to A‐SO2, V‐SO2 and A‐ V‐SO2 difference, showed a linear correlation of r=‐0.581, r=‐0.807, and r=0.472, respectively, with the p‐values <0.008.

Conclusion This is to our knowledge the first study data, which suggests the oxygen metabolism to be altered in cases with retinitis pigmentosa.
The need for epididymovasostomy at vasectomy reversal plateaus in older vasectomies: a study of 1229 cases
Authors: Mui P. , Perkins A. , Burrows P. J. , Marks S. F. , Turek P. J.
Published: November 2013

Vasectomy reversal involves either vasovasostomy (VV) or epididymovasostomy (EV), and rates of epididymal obstruction and EV increase with time after vasectomy. However, as older vasectomies may not require EV for successful reversal, we hypothesized that sperm production falls after vasectomy and can protect the system from epididymal blowout. Our objective was to define how the need for EV at reversal changes with time after vasectomy through a retrospective review of consecutive reversals performed by three surgeons over a 10‐year period. Vasovasotomy was performed with Silber score 1–3 vasal fluid. EVs were performed with Silber score 4 (sperm fragments; creamy fluid) or 5 (sperm absence) fluid. Reversal procedure type was correlated with vasectomy and patient age. Post‐operative patency rates, total spermatozoa and motile sperm counts in younger (<15 years) and older (>15 years) vasectomies were assessed. Simple descriptive statistics determined outcome relevance. Among 1229 patients, 406 had either unilateral (n = 252) or bilateral EV's (n = 154) constituting 33% (406/1229) of reversals. Mean patient age was 41.4±7 years (range 22–72). Median vasectomy interval was 10 years (range 1–38). Overall sperm patency rate after reversal was 84%. The rate of unilateral (EV/VV) or bilateral EV increased linearly in vasectomy intervals of 1–22 years at 3% per year, but plateaued at 72% in vasectomy intervals of 24–38 years. Sperm counts were maintained with increasing time after vasectomy, but motile sperm counts decreased significantly (p < 0.001). Pregnancy, secondary azoospermia, varicocoele and sperm granuloma were not assessed. In conclusion, and contrary to conventional thinking, the need for EV at reversal increases with time after vasectomy, but this relationship is not linear. EV rates plateau 22 years after vasectomy, suggesting that protective mechanisms ameliorate epididymal ‘blowout’. Upon reversal, sperm output is maintained with time after vasectomy, but motile sperm counts decrease linearly, suggesting epididymal dysfunction influences semen quality after reversal.
Positioning of leukocyte subsets in the portal and lobular compartments of hepatitis C virus‐infected liver correlates with local chemokine expression
Authors: Nguyen Nam , de Esch Celine , Cameron Barbara , Kumar Rakesh K , Zekry Amany , Lloyd Andrew R
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

Chronic hepatitis C virus infection is characterized by infiltration of a mixed population of leukocytes into portal tracts and infiltration almost exclusively by CD8+ T cells into lobules of the liver. This pattern of leukocyte recruitment is likely to be orchestrated in a cell‐specific fashion by local chemokine expression.

Methods

Portal or lobular tissues were isolated by laser capture microdissection from 17 liver biopsy specimens to examine regional gene expression of a panel of chemokine ligands and receptors. The biopsies were also stained immunohistochemically to enumerate regional cell numbers.

Results

Expression of multiple chemokine ligands and receptors was evident, although few correlated with leukocyte numbers. In the lobule, expression of CXCL10 correlated with T‐cell subsets (CD3+, P = 0.0002; CD4+, P = 0.0053; and CD8+, P = 0.0061), as did CCL5 (CD3+, P = 0.0005; CD8+, P = 0.0199) and CCL3 (CD3+, P = 0.0016; CD8+, P = 0.008). In the portal tracts, expression of CXCL10 and CCL5 was correlated with CD8+ T‐cell numbers (P = 0.0040 and P = 0.0114, respectively), whereas CXCL13 was strongly correlated with CD20+ B‐cell numbers (P < 0.0001). CXCR3 expression correlated with CD3+ and CD4+ T cells (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.0208, respectively), CCR5 with CD8+ T cells (P < 0.0001), and CXCR5 with CD20+ B‐cell infiltration (P = 0.0022).

Conclusion

CXCR3, CCR5, and CXCR5 and their ligands form key elements of the “zip code” responsible for regional localization of specific lymphocyte subsets in the HCV‐infected liver.
With a little help from EphA3 and polysialic acid: Ectodomain shedding of NCAM is gaining momentum
Authors: Hildebrandt Herbert , Dityatev Alexander
Published: November 2013

Read the full article ‘EphrinA‐EphA‐induced ectodomain shedding of neural cell adhesion molecule regulates growth cone repulsion through ADAM10 metalloprotease’ on doi: 10.1111/jnc.12468
A Comparison of Pathogen Isolation in Culture and Injection–infiltration Bioassay of Citrus Leaves for DetectingXanthomonas citrisubsp.citri
Authors: Bock Clive H. , Gottwald Tim R. , Graham James H.
Published: November 2013

Citrus canker [caused byXanthomonas citrisubsp.citri(Xcc)] can cause yield loss of susceptible citrus and result in trade restrictions of fresh fruit. For both regulatory purposes and epidemiological studies, accurate detection and quantification of viable inoculum are critical. Two accepted methods used to detect and quantifyXccare injection–infiltration bioassay and culture, but these two methods have not been directly compared using field‐obtained samples. The two methods were compared using washates of lesions taken from fruit, leaves and shoots in a commercial orchard inFlorida in 2009–2010 and 2010–2011, with bioassay being the assumed standard. Despite some misclassifications, true positives (sensitivity) and true negatives (specificity) were the dominant classes using culture. False positives for lesions from shoots ranged from 13.1 to 21.4% in 2009–2010 and 2010–2011, respectively, and false positives for lesions from fruit and leaves ranged from 4.3 to 15.7%, in the two seasons, respectively. The false positive rate for culture compared with injection–infiltration bioassay was highest (0.16–0.55), due to more frequent recovery ofXccby culture at ≤103colony‐forming units (CFU)Xccper ml. The false negative rate was consistently lower (0.02–0.21), confirming that in only a few cases did culture fail to detectXccwhen it was present. The area under the curve for receiver operator characteristic analysis ranged from 0.80 to 0.97, confirming that culture provided an accurate diagnosis in most cases. There was a higher frequency of lesions from shoots with aCFU≤103Xcccompared with lesions from fruit or leaves, making culture more effective at detecting these. The data demonstrate that culture is a reliable way to detect and quantifyXcccompared with injection–infiltration bioassay, particularly when theCFUis ≤103Xccper ml.
Insomnia and accidents: cross‐sectional study (EQUINOX) on sleep‐related home, work and car accidents in 5293 subjects with insomnia from 10 countries
Authors: Léger Damien , Bayon Virginie , Ohayon Maurice M. , Philip Pierre , Ement Philippe , Metlaine Arnaud , Chennaoui Mounir , Faraut Brice
Published: November 2013

The link between sleepiness and the risk of motor vehicle accidents is well known, but little is understood regarding the risk of home, work and car accidents of subjects with insomnia. An international cross‐sectional survey was conducted across 10 countries in a population of subjects with sleep disturbances. Primary care physicians administered a questionnaire that included assessment of sociodemographic characteristics, sleep disturbance and accidents (motor vehicle, work and home) related to sleep problems to each subject. Insomnia was defined using the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD‐10) criteria. A total of 5293 subjects were included in the study, of whom 20.9% reported having had at least one home accident within the past 12 months, 10.1% at least one work accident, 9% reported having fallen asleep while driving at least once and 4.1% reported having had at least one car accident related to their sleepiness. All types of accident were reported more commonly by subjects living in urban compared to other residential areas. Car accidents were reported more commonly by employed subjects, whereas home injuries were reported more frequently by the unemployed. Car accidents were reported more frequently by males than by females, whereas home accidents were reported more commonly by females. Patients with insomnia have high rates of home accidents, car accidents and work accidents related to sleep disturbances independently of any adverse effects of hypnotic treatments. Reduced total sleep time may be one factor explaining the high risk of accidents in individuals who complain of insomnia.
Evaluation of Aldosterone Concentrations in Dogs with Hypoadrenocorticism
Authors: Baumstark M.E. , Sieber‐Ruckstuhl N.S. , Müller C. , Wenger M. , Boretti F.S. , Reusch C.E.
Published: November 2013

Background

Some dogs with primary hypoadrenocorticism (HA) have normal sodium and potassium concentrations, a phenomenon called atypical Addison's disease. The assumption that the zona glomerulosa and aldosterone secretion in these dogs are normal seems widely accepted; however, aldosterone measurements are missing in most published cases.

Objectives

To measure aldosterone in dogs withHAwith and without electrolyte abnormalities and to determine the time point of aldosterone peak concentrations duringACTHstimulation.

Animals

Seventy dogs withHA, 22 dogs with diseases mimickingHA, and 19 healthy dogs.

Methods

Prospective study. Blood samples were taken before and 60 minutes after injection of 250 μgACTHin all dogs. Additional blood samples were taken 15, 30, and 45 minutes afterACTHin 7 dogs withHAand in 22 with diseases mimickingHA.

Results

Baseline andACTH‐stimulated aldosterone was significantly lower in dogs withHAthan in the other groups. Aldosterone was low or undetectable in 67/70 dogs withHAindependently of sodium and potassium levels. In 3 dogs, sodium/potassium concentrations were normal; in 1 dog, sodium was normal and potassium decreased. In all 4,ACTH‐stimulated aldosterone concentrations were below the detection limit of the assay. Aldosterone concentrations were not different at 30, 45, or 60 minutes afterACTHadministration.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Cortisol and aldosterone secretion is compromised in dogs withHAwith and without electrolyte abnormalities. The term atypical Addison's disease, used for dogs with primaryHAand normal electrolytes, must be reconsidered; other mechanisms allowing normal electrolyte balance without aldosterone should be evaluated in these dogs.
Arterial Thromboembolism in 250 Cats in General Practice: 2004–2012
Authors: Borgeat K. , Wright J. , Garrod O. , Payne J.R. , Fuentes V.L.
Published: November 2013

Background

Population characteristics and outcome of cats with arterial thromboembolism (ATE) managed in general practice (GP) have been poorly described.

Hypothesis

Cats withATEpresenting toGPare usually euthanized at presentation, but survival times >1 year are possible.

Animals

Cats withATEmanaged by 3GPclinics in the United Kingdom.

Methods

Records of cases presenting toGPover a 98‐month period (2004–2012) were reviewed. Cats with an antemortem diagnosis of limbATEwere included. Outcome information was obtained.

Results

Over 98 months, 250 cats were identified withATE. Prevalence was approximately 0.3%. At presentation, 153 cats (61.2%) were euthanized, with 68/97 (70.1%) of the remaining cats (27.2% of the total population) surviving >24 hours after presentation. Of these, 30/68 (44.1%) survived for at least 7 days. Hypothermia (HR, 1.44; 95%CI, 1.002–2.07;P = .049) and management by Clinic 2 (HR, 5.53; 95%CI, 1.23–24.8;P = .026) were independent predictors of 24‐hour euthanasia or death. For cats surviving >24 hours, hypothermia (HR, 2.25; 95% CI, 1.12–4.48;P = .021) and failure to receive aspirin, clopidogrel, or both (HR, 8.26; 95%CI, 1.39–50;P = .001) were independent predictors of euthanasia or death within 7 days. For cats that survived ≥7 days, median survival time was 94 (95%CI, 42–164) days, with 6 cats alive 1 year after presentation.

Conclusions

Although 153/250 cats were euthanized at presentation, 6 cats survived >12 months. No factors were identified that predicted euthanasia on presentation.
Intranasal dexmedetomidine vs midazolam for premedication in children undergoing complete dental rehabilitation: a double‐blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sheta Saad A. , Al‐Sarheed Maha A. , Abdelhalim Ashraf A.
Published: November 2013

Background

This prospective, randomized, double‐blind study was designed to evaluate the use of intranasally administered dexmedetomidine vs intranasal midazolam as a premedication in children undergoing complete dental rehabilitation.

Methods

Seventy‐two children of American Society of Anesthesiology classification (ASA) physical status (I & II), aged 3–6 years, were randomly assigned to one of two equal groups. Group M received intranasal midazolam (0.2 mg·kg−1), and group D received intranasal dexmedetomidine (1 μg·kg−1). The patients' sedation status, mask acceptance, and hemodynamic parameters were recorded by an observer until anesthesia induction. Recovery conditions, postoperative pain, and postoperative agitation were also recorded.

Results

The median onset of sedation was significantly shorter in group M 15 (10–25) min than in group D 25 (20–40) min (P = 0.001). Compared with the children in group M, those in group D were significantly more sedated when they were separated from their parents (77.8% vs 44.4%, respectively) (P = 0.002). Satisfactory compliance with mask application was 58.3% in group M vs 80.6% in group D (P = 0.035). The incidences of postoperative agitation and shivering were significantly lower in Group D compared with group M. Thirteen children (36.1%) in group M, showed signs of nasal irritation with teary eyes, and none of these signs was seen in the children in group D (P = 0.000). There were no incidences of bradycardia, hypotension, in either of the groups during study observation.

Conclusion

Intranasal dexmedetomidine (1 μg·kg−1) is an effective and safe alternative for premedication in children; it resulted in superior sedation in comparison to 0.2 mg·kg−1 intranasal midazolam. However, it has relatively prolonged onset of action.
Artefactual responses of mesophyll conductance to CO2 and irradiance estimated with the variable J and online isotope discrimination methods
Authors: GU LIANHONG , SUN YING
Published: November 2013

Studies with the variable J method have reported that mesophyll conductance (gm) rapidly decreases with increasing intercellular CO2 partial pressures (Ci) or decreasing irradiance. Similar responses have been suggested with the online isotope discrimination method, although with less consistency. Here we show that even when the true gm is constant, the variable J method can produce an artefactual dependence of gm on Ci or irradiance similar to those reported in previous studies for any of the following factors: day respiration and chloroplastic CO2 photocompensation point are estimated with Laisk method; Ci or electron transport rate is positively biased; net photosynthetic rate is negatively biased; insufficient NADPH is assumed while insufficient ATP limits RuBP regeneration. The isotopic method produces similar artefacts if fractionation of carboxylation or Ci is positively biased or Δ13 negatively biased. A non‐zero chloroplastic resistance to CO2 movement results in a qualitatively different dependence of gm on Ci or irradiance and this dependence is only sensitive at low Ci. We thus cannot rule out the possibility that previously reported dependence of gm on Ci or irradiance is a methodological artefact. Recommendations are made to take advantage of sensitivities of the variable J and isotopic methods for estimating gm.
Differential cadmium and zinc distribution in relation to their physiological impact in the leaves of the accumulatingZygophyllum fabago L.
Authors: LEFÈVRE ISABELLE , VOGEL‐MIKUŠ KATARINA , JEROMEL LUKA , VAVPETIČ PRIMOŽ , PLANCHON SÉBASTIEN , ARČON IZTOK , ELTEREN JOHANNES T VAN , LEPOINT GILLES , GOBERT SYLVIE , RENAUT JENNY , PELICON PRIMOŽ , LUTTS STANLEY
Published: November 2013

Cadmium and zinc share many similar physiochemical properties, but their compartmentation, complexation and impact on other mineral element distribution in plant tissues may drastically differ. In this study, we address the impact of 10 μmCd or 50 μmZn treatments on ion distribution in leaves of a metallicolous population of the non‐hyperaccumulating speciesZygophyllum fabagoat tissue and cell level, and the consequences on the plant response through a combined physiological, proteomic and metabolite approach. Micro‐proton‐induced X‐ray emission and laser ablation inductively coupled mass spectrometry analyses indicated hot spots ofCd concentrations in the vicinity of vascular bundles in response toCd treatment, essentially bound toS‐containing compounds as revealed by extended X‐ray absorption fine structure and non‐protein thiol compounds analyses. A preferential accumulation ofZn occurred in vascular bundle and spongy mesophyll in response toZn treatment, and was mainly bound toO/N‐ligands. Leaf proteomics and physiological status evidenced a protection of photosynthetically active tissues and the maintenance of cell turgor through specific distribution and complexation of toxic ions, reallocation of some essential elements, synthesis of proteins involved in photosynthetic apparatus orC‐metabolism, and metabolite synthesis with some specificities regarding the considered heavy metal treatment.
Public Values in Public–Private Partnerships
Authors: Reynaers Anne‐Marie
Published: November 2013

Although public–private partnerships (PPPs) are frequently analyzed and lauded in terms of efficiency, their impact on public values is often neglected. As a result, there is little empirical evidence supporting or rejecting the claim that PPPs have a negative effect on public values. This case study provides valuable insight into the relationship between public values in PPPs and the circumstances affecting the degree to which public values are upheld. Research findings demonstrate that whether public values are at stake in PPPs cannot be answered with a simple yes or no. Rather, public values can be threatened, safeguarded, or even strengthened depending on the project phase and the specific facet of the public value under scrutiny. Insight into which circumstances influence the safeguarding of public values in DBFMO (design–build–finance–maintain–operate) projects unravels the strengths and weaknesses of PPPs in terms of public values, providing public managers with a starting point for optimization.
Are self‐reported risk‐taking behavior and helmet use associated with injury causes among skiers and snowboarders?
Authors: Ruedl G. , Burtscher M. , Wolf M. , Ledochowski L. , Bauer R. , Benedetto K.‐P. , Kopp M.
Published: November 2013

Over the last 10 years, ski helmet use has steadily increased worldwide. According to the “risk compensation theory,” however, studies found that up to one third of skiers and snowboarders self‐reported to engage in more risk taking when wearing a ski helmet. Therefore, to evaluate whether self‐reported risk taking and ski helmet use affect accident causes on ski slopes, more than 2000 injured skiers and snowboarders were interviewed during the 2011/2012 winter season about accident causes and potential intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors. Chi‐square tests revealed that ski helmet use did not significantly differ between self‐reported risky and cautious people (81% vs 83%). Multivariate regression analysis revealed younger age groups [odds ratios (ORs) 1.8–1.9, P < 005], male sex (OR 2.4, P < 0.001), Austrian nationality (2.2, P < 0.001), higher skill level (1.7, P < 0.001), and off‐slope skiing (OR 2.2, P = 0.060) to be predictive for a risky behavior on ski slopes. Neither the use of skis or snowboards nor accident causes were significantly associated with a riskier behavior on ski slopes. In conclusion, self‐reported risk‐taking behavior and ski helmet use seem not to be associated with accident causes leading to an injury among recreational skiers and snowboarders.
Finite Element Modeling, Analysis, and Life Prediction of Photovoltaic Modules
Authors: Hasan Osama , Arif A. F. M. , Siddiqui M. U.
Published: November 2013

A Photovoltaic (PV) module consists of layers of different materials constrained together through an encapsulant polymer. During its lamination and operation, it experiences mechanical and thermal loads due to seasonal and daily temperature variations, which cause breakage of interconnects owing to fatigue. This is due to the fact that there is a coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) mismatch because of the presence of unlike materials within the laminate. Therefore, thermomechanical stresses are induced in the module. The lifetime of today's PV module is expected to be 25 yr and this period corresponds to the guarantee of the manufacturer. Its high reliability will help it to reach grid parity. But, the problem is that it is not convenient to wait and assess its durability. In this work, material of each component of PV module is characterized and finite-element (FE) structural analysis is performed to find the initial condition of the components of the module after manufacture. It was found that the copper interconnects undergo plastic deformation just after the lamination process. A thermal model was numerically developed and sequentially coupled to the structural model. By using the meteorological data of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, average life of PV module was estimated to be 26.5 yr.
Complete Genome Sequences of Five Paenibacillus larvae Bacteriophages
Authors: Sheflo Michael A. , Gardner Adam V. , Merrill Bryan D. , Fisher Joshua N. B. , Lunt Bryce L. , Breakwell Donald P. , Grose Julianne H. , Burnett Sandra H.
Published: November 2013

Paenibacillus larvae
is a pathogen of honeybees that causes American foulbrood (AFB). We isolated bacteriophages from soil containing bee debris collected near beehives in Utah. We announce five high-quality complete genome sequences, which represent the first completed genome sequences submitted to GenBank for any
P. larvae
bacteriophage.
Complete Genome Sequence of Staphylococcus aureus Siphovirus Phage JS01
Authors: Jia Hongying , Bai Qinqin , Yang Yongchun , Yao Huochun
Published: November 2013

Staphylococcus aureus
is the most prevalent and economically significant pathogen causing bovine mastitis. We isolated and characterized one staphylophage from the milk of mastitis-affected cattle and sequenced its genome. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation shows that it belongs to the family
Siphovirus
. We announce here its complete genome sequence and report major findings from the genomic analysis.
Draft Genome Sequence of Geobacillus thermoleovorans Strain B23
Authors: Boonmak Chanita , Takahasi Yasunori , Morikawa Masaaki
Published: November 2013

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Geobacillus thermoleovorans
strain B23, which was isolated from a deep subterranean petroleum reservoir in Japan. An array of genes related to unique long-chain alkane degradation pathways in
G. thermoleovorans
B23 has been identified by whole-genome analyses of this strain.
Therapeutic angiography and embolisation for bleeding aberrant duodenal artery arising from replaced hepatic artery
Authors: Azeemuddin Muhammad , Naqi Rohana , Sayani Raza
Published: November 2013

We present a rare case of a 70-year-old man with a known case of hypertension and carcinoma larynx, he was admitted under ENT (ear, nose and throat) services for a laryngectomy. On admission, he started having severe per rectal bleeding. The patient underwent a number of radiological investigations to determine the origin of the bleed, including Tc 99 m labelled red blood cells tagged scan, a CT scan and two angiographies. The final angiogram showed an aberrant artery supplying the duodenum showing active extravasation. It was arising from the replaced right hepatic artery which itself arose from the superior mesenteric artery. Successful embolisation was performed using polyvinyl alcohol particles and microcoil. We present this rare case of an aberrant artery supplying the duodenum.
Uncommon perineal tumours: caution with aggressive surgical management
Authors: Duchalais Emilie , Cassagnau Elisabeth , Regenet Nicolas , Meurette Guillaume
Published: November 2013

An asymptomatic 66-year-old woman showed a large perineal mass extending close to pelvic organs on MRI. CT-guided needle biopsies revealed a desmoid tumour (DT). The patient refused radical surgery. Four years later, the tumour had marginally increased in size and was still asymptomatic. The revision of earlier biopsies then revealed typical aspects of aggressive angiomyxoma (AA). AA and DT are rare mesenchymal tumours of low-grade malignancy, usually of large size, that occurs in female pelvi-perineal region. Radical resection with wide margins is classically advocated in such tumours in order to prevent the high risk of recurrences. However, due to a slow growth, rare infiltration of adjacent organs and a very low metastatic potential, a watchful waiting policy can be proposed when high postoperative morbidity is expected. In order to propose the accurate treatment, frontline biopsies of the tumour are essential.
Emergency department ultrasound diagnosis of spontaneous iliopsoas haemorrhage in a patient on warfarin
Authors: Sharma Devesh , Saker Ramy , Govind Abha
Published: November 2013

A 87-year-old man presented to the emergency department (ED) with right-sided abdominal and thigh pain which had been present for the last 3 days and was getting worse. He had been diagnosed with a deep venous thrombosis of the left common femoral and superficial veins 10 days previously and had been discharged on a loading dose of warfarin and low-molecular weight heparin (dalteparin) injections. Despite his international normalised ratio being only 2.4, an ED ultrasound showed an unusual mass in the right iliac fossa, partly cystic and partly solid. A CT scan was performed which showed the lesion was a haematoma in the right iliopsoas muscle mass.
Lipomatosis of the terminal ileum and ileocaecal valve: multidetector CT findings
Authors: Parlak Izzet Selcuk , Okay Aysun Erdogan , Kaplanoglu Hatice , Kuscuoglu Gizem
Published: November 2013

This case report is a duplicate publication because it has already appeared in the following journal:Iranian Journal of Radiology2014;11:e4336. DOI: 10.5812/iranjradiol.4336. The authors considered the article had been rejected from the Iranian Journal of Radiology when they submitted to BMJ Case Reports.
Impact of the urgent care telephone service NHS 111 pilot sites: a controlled before and after study
Authors: Turner J , O'Cathain A , Knowles E , Nicholl J
Published: November 2013

Objectives

To measure the impact of the urgent care telephone service NHS 111 on the emergency and urgent care system.

Design

Controlled before and after study using routine data.

Setting

Four pilot sites and three control sites covering a total population of 3.6 million in England, UK.

Participants and data

Routine data on 36 months of use of emergency ambulance service calls and incidents, emergency department attendances, urgent care contacts (general practice (GP) out of hours, walk in and urgent care centres) and calls to the telephone triage service NHS direct.

Intervention

NHS 111, a new 24 h 7 day a week telephone service for non-emergency health problems, operated by trained non-clinical call handlers with clinical support from nurse advisors, using NHS Pathways software to triage calls to different services and home care.

Main outcomes

Changes in use of emergency and urgent care services.

Results

NHS 111 triaged 277 163 calls in the first year of operation for a population of 1.8 million. There was no change overall in emergency ambulance calls, emergency department attendances or urgent care use. There was a 19.3% reduction in calls to NHS Direct (95% CI −24.6% to −14.0%) and a 2.9% increase in emergency ambulance incidents (95% CI 1.0% to 4.8%). There was an increase in activity overall in the emergency and urgent care system in each site ranging 4.7–12%/month and this remained when assuming that NHS 111 will eventually take all NHS Direct and GP out of hours calls.

Conclusions

In its first year of operation in four pilot sites NHS 111 did not deliver the expected system benefits of reducing calls to the 999 ambulance service or shifting patients to urgent rather than emergency care. There is potential that this type of service increases overall demand for urgent care.
What happens when patients know more than their doctors? Experiences of health interactions after diabetes patient education: a qualitative patient-led study
Authors: Snow Rosamund , Humphrey Charlotte , Sandall Jane
Published: November 2013

Objective

To explore the impact of patient education on the lives of people with diabetes, including the effect on interactions with doctors and other healthcare professionals.

Design

Qualitative user-led study using longitudinal interviews and 146 h of participant observation. Data were analysed using a narrative approach.

Participants

21 patients with type 1 diabetes, those either about to attend a patient education course or those who had completed the course in the previous 10 years.

Setting

Established patient education centres in three UK teaching hospitals teaching the Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating (DAFNE) course.

Results

Both postcourse and several years later, most participants spoke of the experience of taking part in education as life-changingly positive. It helped them understand how to gain control over a very complex disease and freed them from dependence on medical advice and restrictive regimes. However, interactions within the health system following patient education could be fraught. Participants emerged from the course with greater condition-specific knowledge than many of the healthcare professionals they encountered. When these professionals did not understand what their patients were trying to do and were uncomfortable trusting their expertise, there could be serious consequences for these patients' ability to continue effective self-management.

Conclusions

Patients who have in-depth knowledge of their condition encounter problems when their expertise is seen as inappropriate in standard healthcare interactions, and expertise taught to patients in one branch of medicine can be considered non-compliant by those who are not specialists in that field. Although patient education can give people confidence in their own self-management skills, it cannot solve the power imbalance that remains when a generalist healthcare professional, however well meaning, blocks access to medication and supplies needed to manage chronic diseases successfully. There is a role for those involved in primary and hospital care, including those supporting and training healthcare professionals, to recognise these problems and find ways to acknowledge and respect chronic patients' biomedical and practical expertise.
Recognising avian notifiable diseases 3. Clinical disease investigations and differential diagnoses in poultry
Authors: Irvine Richard M.
Published: November 2013

The request to investigate poultry health and/or production problems may arise for a number of different reasons, ranging from unexpected or unexplained bird losses to suboptimal or poor production. Such requests may present varying challenges to the attending veterinarian. This final article in a three‐part series follows descriptions of avian influenza and Newcastle disease (which were published in the September and October issues of In Practice, respectively) and seeks to integrate considerations for the clinical investigation of poultry flocks, differential diagnoses, and features that may prompt suspicion and reporting of avian notifiable disease.
CT and MRI in veterinary patients: an update on recent advances
Authors: Labruyère Julien , Schwarz Tobias
Published: November 2013

Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are two diagnostic imaging procedures that have become commonplace in first‐opinion practices. Both of these modalities are continually undergoing technological improvement and each has its advantages for different applications. This article provides an update on recent advances and compares the use of CT and MRI in different areas of the body.
Exploring the efficacy of cyclic vs static aspiration in a cerebral thrombectomy model: an initial proof of concept study
Authors: Simon Scott , Grey Casey Paul , Massenzo Trisha , Simpson David G , Longest P Worth
Published: November 2013

Background and purpose

Current technology for endovascular thrombectomy in ischemic stroke utilizes static loading and is successful in approximately 85% of cases. Existing technology uses either static suction (applied via a continuous pump or syringe) or flow arrest with a proximal balloon. In this paper we evaluate the potential of cyclic loading in aspiration thrombectomy.

Methods

In order to evaluate the efficacy of cyclic aspiration, a model was created using a Penumbra aspiration system, three-way valve and Penumbra 5Max catheter. Synthetic clots were aspirated at different frequencies and using different aspiration mediums. Success or failure of clot removal and time were recorded. All statistical analyses were based on either a one-way or two-way analysis of variance, Holm–Sidak pairwise multiple comparison procedure (α=0.05).

Results

Cyclic aspiration outperformed static aspiration in overall clot removal and removal speed (p<0.001). Within cyclic aspiration, Max Hz frequencies (∼6.3 Hz) cleared clots faster than 1 Hz (p<0.001) and 2 Hz (p=0.024). Loading cycle dynamics (specific pressure waveforms) affected speed and overall clearance (p<0.001). Water as the aspiration medium was more effective at clearing clots than air (p=0.019).

Conclusions

Cyclic aspiration significantly outperformed static aspiration in speed and overall clearance of synthetic clots in our experimental model. Within cyclic aspiration, efficacy is improved by increasing cycle frequency, utilizing specific pressure cycle waveforms and using water rather than air as the aspiration medium. These findings provide a starting point for altering existing thrombectomy technology or perhaps the development of new technologies with higher recanalization rates.
Republished: Environmental and occupational exposure to chemicals and telomere length in human studies
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Lin Shao , Funk William E , Hou Lifang
Published: November 2013

Telomeres are complexes of tandem repeats of DNA (5′-TTAGGG-3′) and protein that cap eukaryotic chromosomes and play a critical role in chromosome stability. Telomeres shorten with aging and this process can be accelerated by increased oxidative stress and episodes of inflammation. Evidence is rapidly growing that telomere length (TL) may be affected by environmental chemicals that have frequently been associated with chronic diseases. In this article, we review the published data on TL in relation to environmental and occupational exposure to several chemicals based on our own and others' studies. The environmental and occupational exposures associated with shorter TL include traffic-related air pollution (ie, particulate matter (PM), black carbon (BC), and benzene and toluene), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), N-nitrosamines, pesticides, lead, exposure in car mechanical workshops, and hazardous waste exposure. Arsenic, persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and short-term exposure to PM are associated with longer TL. We discuss the possible reasons for the differences in results, including time- and dose-related issues, study design, and possible mechanisms involved in telomere regulation. We also discuss the future directions and challenges for TL-related environmental and occupational health research, such as investigation of TL in subpopulations of blood leukocytes, and the study of genetic and epigenetic factors that may regulate telomere integrity using longitudinal designs.
The role of core groups in the emergence and dissemination of antimicrobial-resistantN gonorrhoeae
Authors: Lewis D A
Published: November 2013

Core groups contain individuals who are regularly infected withNeisseria gonorrhoeaeand are able to transmit their infection to a large number of sexual partners. Classical core groups, such as sex workers and their male partners, or men who have sex with men (MSM), have contributed to the emergence and spread of antimicrobial-resistantN gonorrhoeaeover many years. Sex workers and their clients were the most important core group driving the dissemination of penicillinase-producingN gonorrhoeaein the 1970s. Such individuals have continued to contribute to penicillinase-producingN gonorrhoeaeoutbreaks as well as to the subsequent emergence of gonococcal resistance to fluoroquinolones, macrolides, spectinomycin and cephalosporins in various settings. MSM have been a very important core group since the 1980s, first with the spread of TetM-expressingN gonorrhoeaeand, second, with the dissemination of fluoroquinolone-resistantN gonorrhoeae. MSM-associated sexual networks have most recently been critical to the spread of gonococci resistant to third generation extended spectrum cephalosporins, including cefixime and ceftriaxone. Individuals within other core groups have also been linked to the transmission of antimicrobial-resistant gonorrhoea, such as military personnel, travellers, drug users, young adults, older men and members of street gangs. Understanding core behaviours and their geospatial clustering is essential for an optimal public health response to the rising prevalence of antimicrobial-resistant gonorrhoea. Furthermore, rapid and effective treatment ofN gonorrhoeaeinfections in core individuals and their sexual partners should be a priority for gonorrhoea control programmes.
The European Gonococcal Antimicrobial Surveillance Programme (Euro-GASP)—a sentinel approach in the European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA)
Authors: Spiteri Gianfranco , Cole Michelle , Unemo Magnus , Hoffmann Steen , Ison Catherine , van de Laar Marita
Published: November 2013

Antimicrobial resistance inNeisseria gonorrhoeaeis monitored in the European Union/European Economic Area through the European Gonococcal Antimicrobial Surveillance Programme (Euro-GASP) coordinated by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Euro-GASP includes a sentinel surveillance programme which aims to detect in a timely manner changes in resistance patterns and inform treatment guidelines. The programme aims to test a representative number of isolates from each European Union/European Economic Area member state per year for a range of therapeutically relevant antimicrobials through a biannual hybrid centralised/decentralised system. Testing is supported by an External Quality Assurance programme and a laboratory training programme. Participation in the programme has increased to 21 countries in 2012. Euro-GASP has been able to detect the rapid spread of isolates with decreased susceptibility to cefixime across Europe in 2010 and 2011. Results from the programme have informed changes in European treatment guidelines for gonorrhoea and led to the development of the ‘Response plan to control and manage the threat of multidrug resistant gonorrhoea in Europe’. Future challenges for Euro-GASP include supporting countries to participate in Euro-GASP through decentralised testing, improving timeliness and epidemiological data quality, and increasing participation from Eastern Europe.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis for Sustainable Cultivation of Chinese Medicinal Plants: A Promising Research Direction
Authors: Zeng Yan , Guo Lan-Ping , Chen Bao-Dong , Hao Zhi-Peng , Wang Ji-Yong , Huang Lu-Qi , Yang Guang , Cui Xiu-Ming , Yang Li , Wu Zhao-Xiang , Chen Mei-Lan , Zhang Yan
Published: November 2013

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) are symbiotic systems in nature and have great significance in promoting the growth and stress resistance of medicinal plants. During our literature search from the Chinese Scientific Information Database (Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, CNKI) we obtained 65 articles with "AM fungi" and "medicinal plant" as the key words, which indicates that in China, research efforts on these topics have been increasing. The main purposes of this review are to discuss the effects of mycorrhiza on the active ingredients of Chinese medicinal plants in comparison with results obtained in other plants in studies conducted by the international research community, and to introduce works published in Chinese journals to international colleagues.