bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
African Colonial Economies: State Control, Peasant Maneuvers, and Unintended Outcomes
Authors: Ochonu Moses
Published: January 2013

A supreme goal of colonizers' economic policies was to transform African subsistent and semi‐subsistent farmers into export oriented peasants‐‐peasantization in the jargon of African economic history. This was a difficult, complex, and long‐drawn process, requiring multiple mechanisms, some coercive, others persuasive.This essay begins with a survey of the messy unfolding of this process in diverse regions of Africa, highlighting its problems and unforeseen consequences. It then posits an analytical overview of the mining economies of Southern Africa, and their counterparts in pockets of West Africa. Keeping the focus on the interactions between the agency and interests of African peasants and the enforced reach of colonial policies, the essay suggests a way of evaluating colonial agricultural systems by analytically privileging the struggles and strategic maneuvers of Africans drawn into the colonial export economy. In these discussions, multiple conceptual and theoretical perspectives that scholars have deployed to understand these processes are analyzed and critiqued.
Religion, Political Thought and the English Civil War
Authors: Prior Charles W. A.
Published: January 2013

Religion has always been central to explanations of the political and ideological causes and course of the English civil war. Where historians once privileged aspects of the conflict that associated it with a broader narrative about the historic development of religious toleration and parliamentary democracy, the 1980s witnessed a shift whereby it was more firmly contained within local and European contexts. More recently, there has been an effort to place the civil war within another broad context, yet one that traces its roots in the Reformation rather than its legacies in the 18th and 19th centuries. However, a question remains as to what the English Reformation meant for the relationship of civil and ecclesiastical power: in many ways this was the key issue that shaped the politics of religion in the English civil war. This essay suggests that we understand the politics of religion more effectively by situating the conflict within the wider contexts opened up by Atlantic and imperial history.
“Erratum: What Was an Early Modern Public, and How Was It Made?”
Authors: McKeon Michael
Published: January 2013

One argument of The Secret History of Domesticity is that there were two early modern publics, one traditional and one innovative; that the new concept of the public began to emerge when the authority of the old public, until then a matter of tacit belief, was subjected to explicit and rational analysis; and that the rationality of the new public depended on the simultaneous rise of an entirely new concept, the private. This argument responds at length to the central question raised by the Making Publics Project –‘‘What was an early modern public, and how was it made?’’– in ways that are pertinent to the work of MaPs, as can be seen in the stimulating essays gathered for this collection. The contributors have focused on a broad range of issues entailed in the hypothesis of a modern public, from political and religious history, social theory, historiography, and periodization to the history of civic architecture, gender and domesticity, drama, and the aesthetic, principally in England but also in fourteenth‐century Italy and the seventeenth‐century Dutch Republic. This comparative dimension enhances and deepens the developing coherence, within English culture, of the category of the modern.
Evaluating social assistance reforms under programme heterogeneity and alternative measures of success
Authors: Ayala Luis , Rodríguez Magdalena
Published: January 2013

This article presents an assessment of welfare reforms under a framework of programme heterogeneity and alternative measures of success. The study focused on a specific programme – Madrid's Ingreso Madrileño de Integración (Madrid Regional Government's Welfare Programme) – which comprises heterogeneous sub‐programmes. We tested whether work‐related sub‐programmes performed better than general activities aimed at improving life skills by analysing the effects on different types of outcomes. We also tried to identify which work‐related sub‐programme worked best. Our results show that intensive employment activities yield remarkably better results than general work‐related schemes or life‐skills activities. However, increasing work participation does not automatically lift participants out of material hardship.

Key Practitioner Message: ● Strategies to reduce the dependence of low‐income households on government support by improving employment opportunities; ● Evaluation of alternative work‐related sub‐programmes in welfare policies; ● New evidence on approaches that consider heterogeneous sub‐programmes and different types of outcomes might inform and partially shape the future public policy agenda in the welfare reform debate.
Searching for collaboration in international nursing partnerships: a literature review
Authors: George E.K. , Meadows‐Oliver M.
Published: January 2013

GEORGE E.K. & MEADOWS‐OLIVER M. (2013) Searching for collaboration in international nursing partnerships: a literature review. International Nursing Review60, 31–36

Background:  Nurses from low‐income countries (LICs) face extreme nursing shortages, faculty shortages and a lack of professional development opportunities. Nurses from high‐income countries (HICs) can leverage their wealth of resources to collaborate with nursing colleagues in LICs to expand clinical, education and research capacity. In turn, nurses from HICs gain stronger competency in the care they provide, improved communication skills and an increased understanding of global health issues.

Aim:  The purpose of this literature review is to identify international nursing clinical, education and research partnerships among nurses from LICs and HICs and to analyse the degree of collaboration involved in each partnership using DeSantis' counterpart concept.

Methods:  We conducted a systematic review of international nursing partnerships in the scientific literature from January 2001 to July 2012. A total of nine articles met inclusion criteria for analysis.

Findings:  All of the articles discuss lessons learnt in building international nursing partnerships among nurses from HICs and LICs. However, the articles failed to meet the criteria set forth by DeSantis' counterpart concept to achieve fully collaborative nursing partnerships.

Conclusions:  International nursing partnerships require more foresight and planning to create partnerships in which the benefits derived by nurses from LICs equal those of their colleagues from HICs. By striving for such collaboration, international nursing partnerships can help build nursing clinical, education and research capacity in LICs.
ABCs of Neonatal Cardiac Anesthesia
Authors: Chin Chris
Published: January 2013

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is relatively common and there are treatment options for virtually every form of CHD. With good care, the majority of babies can survive to adulthood; however, CHD remains a significant cause of death in infancy and neonates are especially vulnerable. In order to manage these patients, a clear understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and the planned surgical procedure is important. However, attention to detail and meticulous care are equally important, and, in addition, there are several management strategies that may standardize practice and can improve outcome.
Characteristics of a Nonocclusive Pressure‐Regulated Blood Roller Pump
Authors: Durandy Yves
Published: January 2013

For decades, extracorporeal life support (ECLS) systems have relied on pumps designed for short‐term cardiopulmonary bypass. In the past, occlusive roller pumps were the standard. They are being progressively replaced by centrifugal pumps and devices developed specifically for ECLS. However, the ideal pump for long‐term bypass is yet to be created. One interesting alternative is the Rhône‐Poulenc 06 pump that is a nonocclusive pressure‐regulated blood pump developed in France in the 1970s. This pump is composed of a double‐stage rotor with three rollers at each level. The raceway tubing is stretched on the roller and pump occlusivity depends on the tension of the chamber on the rotor. The pump is able to deliver physiological blood flow values without generating dangerous negative or positive pressures. The specific design of the chamber allows the pump to generate a pulsatile flow, inducing minimal blood trauma, and to act as a bubble trap, making it inherently safe. This pump has been used for cardiopulmonary bypass, extracorporeal lung support, and more specifically single‐lumen single‐cannula venovenous membrane oxygenation for neonates, left‐heart or right‐heart assist, and venovenous bypass during liver transplant. In conclusion, this old‐fashion pump is perfectly adapted for any kind of short‐ or long‐term bypass.
Monitoring Biomarkers After Pediatric Heart Surgery: A New Paradigm on the Horizon
Authors: Aĝirbaşli Mehmet , Ündar Akif
Published: January 2013

Until recently, risk scoring systems for adult patients consisted of only clinical criteria. Currently, we are experiencing an abundant surge of literature integrating a wide range of biomarker arrays to clinical criteria in assessing the risk in an adult. In fact, novel risk scoring systems such as Reynolds criteria have emerged by combining the validated biomarkers to the traditional risk factors. Novel biomarkers potentially improve clinical management of cardiovascular disease, but there are gaps in understanding their role during childhood. The reason might be related to relatively lower prevalence of cardiovascular disease in children compared to the adult population. One exceptional group is the children with congenital heart disease. Recent studies indicate that novel biomarkers can alert the clinician in a timely manner about neurological and myocardial injury and their inflammatory consequences. Current technologies enable us to measure several biomarkers using only a few microliters of plasma. The preliminary studies show that novel biomarkers in addition to the traditionally studied biomarkers can help the clinician to identify children at high risk following pediatric heart surgery. Future studies are needed to confirm the role of biomarkers in monitoring children after cardiopulmonary bypass.
The Comparison of the Effects of Bretschneider's Histidine‐Tryptophan‐Ketoglutarate and Conventional Crystalloid Cardioplegia on Pediatric Myocardium at Tissue Level
Authors: Korun Oktay , Özkan Murat , Terzi Ayşen , Aşkın Göktan , Sezgin Atilla , Aşlamacı Sait
Published: January 2013

Cardioplegic arrest is one of the most common myocardial protection strategies. A wide variety of cardioplegic solutions are routinely being used. There is an ongoing discussion about the relative effectiveness of these solutions considering myocardial protection. This study aims to investigate the hypothesis that the use of histidine‐tryptophan‐ketoglutarate (HTK) cardioplegia leads to decreased ischemic damage on myocardium compared with the use of conventional crystalloid cardioplegia. The study population was 32 patients operated on at Başkent University, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery for congenital heart diseases. The first group of 16 patients received conventional crystalloid cardioplegia (KK group) which is a modification of St. Thomas' solution, while the second group of 16 patients received HTK solution (HTK group). The echocardiographic measurements and the laboratory values of the patients were taken as the clinical variables. Right ventricular biopsies were taken from every patient before and after cardioplegic arrest. These biopsies were histopathologically examined for apoptosis using caspase‐3 antigen and cell proliferation using Ki‐67 antigen. The statistical analysis revealed no significant difference between the two groups regarding the clinical variables, apoptotic indices and proliferation indices. The apoptotic indices in the postcardioplegic arrest biopsies positively correlated with aortic clamp time in the KK group but not in the HTK group. Liver function tests on postoperative day 1 positively correlated with aortic clamp time in both groups. On postoperative day 2, this correlation was sustained in the KK group and ceased in HTK group. The difference in the correlation of apoptotic indices and liver function tests between the groups is accepted as a supportive finding for HTK solution. However, it can be postulated that when the aortic clamp times are similar to those in the present study, the clinical manifestation of the difference between the two solutions would not be significant.
The Effect of Cardiopulmonary Bypass and Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest on Hepatic Histology in Newborn Animals: An Experimental Study
Authors: Tirilomis Theodor , Zwiehoff Julia M. , Waldmann‐Beushausen Regina , Schneider Simon , Schoendube Friedrich A.
Published: January 2013

Still little is known about the effect of cardiac surgery on neonatal hepatic tissue. We examined the effect of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and the effect of deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) on neonatal hepatic tissue. Liver biopsies of neonatal piglets were taken after CPB (n = 4), after DHCA (n = 5), and after surgery without CPB (non‐CPB; n = 3). Additionally, findings were compared to those of control piglets (n = 9). The liver specimens were fixed, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and scored regarding inflammatory reaction, hepatocellular edema, and apoptosis. Inflammation score of treated groups was higher than in control; CPB 2.5 ± 0.5, DHCA 1.6 ± 0.4, non‐CPB 1.2 ± 0.6, control 0.4 ± 0.3 (P < 0.001 CPB and DHCA vs. control; P < 0.05 non‐CPB vs. control). Hepatic cell edema was more evident after DHCA (score 2.0 ± 0.4 vs. 0.2 ± 0.3 in control and 0.6 ± 0.5 after CPB; P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively). The highest apoptotic cell count was in the non‐CPB group (22.3 ± 6.3 vs. 11.4 ± 3.6 in control and 8.9 ± 5.4 after CPB; P < 0.05). The present study showed that (i) surgical trauma induces hepatic cell apoptosis; (ii) CPB increases hepatic inflammatory reaction; and (iii) DHCA amplifies hepatic cell edema.
DNA Barcoding Identifies all Immature Life Stages of a Forensically Important Flesh Fly (Diptera: Sarcophagidae)
Authors: Meiklejohn Kelly A. , Wallman James F. , Dowton Mark
Published: January 2013

Carrion‐breeding insects, such as flesh flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae), can be used as evidence in forensic investigations. Despite their considerable forensic potential, their use has been limited because morphological species identification, at any life stage, is very challenging. This study investigated whether DNA could be extracted and cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) barcode sequences obtained for molecular identification of each immature life stage of the forensically important Australian flesh fly, Sarcophaga (Sarcorohdendorfia) impatiens (Walker). Genomic DNA extracts were prepared from all larval instars and puparia. Amplification of the barcoding region was successful from all extracts, but puparia amplicons were weak. All sequences were identified as S. impatiens with 99.95% confidence using the Barcoding of Life Database (BOLD). Importantly, crop removal was necessary to eliminate PCR inhibition for specimens from late second and early third instars. Similar results are expected for immatures of other carrion‐breeding species, enhancing the use of evidence from immature flies in forensic investigations.
Patterns of Variation and Match Rates of the Anterior Biting Dentition: Characteristics of a Database of 3D‐Scanned Dentitions
Authors: David Sheets H. , Bush Peter J. , Bush Mary A.
Published: January 2013

An understanding of the variability of the anterior human dentition is essential in bitemark analysis. A collection of 1099 3D laser scans of paired maxillary and mandibular arches were studied using geometric morphometric methods. Analyses were performed without scale (shape only) and with scale (shape and size). Specimens differing by no more than experimentally obtained measurement error were counted as matches, or as indistinguishable. A total of 487 maxillary (396 size preserved), 131 mandibular (83 size preserved), and one paired dentition (two size preserved) matches were found. Principal component analysis and partial least squares revealed interpretable patterns of variation and covariation in dental shape, principally dominated by variation in dental arch width. The sensitivity of match rate to assumed degree of measurement error was also determined showing rapid increases in match rate as measurement error increased. In conclusion, the concept of dental uniqueness with regard to bitemark analysis should be approached with caution.
Facilitation of electroporative drug uptake and cell killing by electrosensitization
Authors: Pakhomova Olga N. , Gregory Betsy W. , Pakhomov Andrei G.
Published: January 2013

Cell permeabilization by electric pulses (EP), or electroporation, is widely used for intracellular delivery of drugs and plasmids, as well as for tumour and tissue ablation. We found that cells pre‐treated with 100‐μs EP develop delayed hypersensitivity to subsequent EP applications. Sensitizing B16 and CHO cells by splitting a single train of eight 100‐μs EP into two trains of four EP each (with 5‐min. interval) decreased the LD50 1.5–2 times. Sensitization profoundly enhanced the electroporation‐assisted uptake of bleomycin, a cell‐impermeable cytotoxic agent accepted for killing tumours by electrochemotherapy. EP exposures that were not lethal per se caused cell death in the presence of bleomycin and proportionally to its concentration. Sensitizing cells by a split‐dose EP exposure increased bleomycin‐mediated lethality to the same extent as a 10‐fold increase in bleomycin concentration when using a single EP dose. Likewise, sensitization by a split‐dose EP exposure (without changing the overall dose, pulse number, or amplitude) enhanced the electroporative uptake of propidium up to fivefold. Enhancement of the electroporative uptake appears a key mechanism of electrosensitization and may benefit electrochemotherapy and numerous applications that employ EP for cell permeabilization.
Acute hyperglycaemia enhances oxidative stress and aggravates myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury: role of thioredoxin‐interacting protein
Authors: Su Hui , Ji Lele , Xing Wenjuan , Zhang Wei , Zhou Heping , Qian Xinhong , Wang Xiaoming , Gao Feng , Sun Xin , Zhang Haifeng
Published: January 2013

Hyperglycaemia during acute myocardial infarction is common and associated with increased mortality. Thioredoxin‐interacting protein (Txnip) is a modulator of cellular redox state and contributes to cell apoptosis. This study aimed to investigate whether or not hyperglycaemia enhances Txnip expression in myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion (MI/R) and consequently exacerbates MI/R injury. Rats were subjected to 30 min. of left coronary artery ligation followed by 4 hrs of reperfusion and treated with saline or high glucose (HG, 500 g/l, 4 ml/kg/h intravenously). In vitro study was performed on cultured rat cardiomyocytes subjected to simulated ischaemia/reperfusion (SI/R) and incubated with HG (25 mM) or normal glucose (5.6 mM) medium. In vivo HG infusion during MI/R significantly impaired cardiac function, aggravated myocardial injury and increased cardiac oxidative stress. Meanwhile, Txnip expression was enhanced whereas thioredoxin activity was inhibited following HG treatment in ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) hearts. In addition, HG activated p38 MAPK and inhibited Akt in I/R hearts. In cultured cardiomyocytes subjected to SI/R, HG incubation stimulated Txnip expression and reduced thioredoxin activity. Overexpression of Txnip enhanced HG‐induced superoxide generation and aggravated cardiomyocyte apoptosis, whereas Txnip RNAi significantly blunted the deleterious effects of HG. Moreover, inhibition of p38 MAPK or activation of Akt markedly blocked HG‐induced Txnip expression in I/R cardiomyocytes. Most importantly, intramyocardial injection of Txnip siRNA markedly decreased Txnip expression and alleviated MI/R injury in HG‐treated rats. Hyperglycaemia enhances myocardial Txnip expression, possibly through reciprocally modulating p38 MAPK and Akt activation, leading to aggravated oxidative stress and subsequently, amplification of cardiac injury following MI/R.
Apoptosis drives cancer cells proliferate and metastasize
Authors: Wang Rui‐An , Li Qin‐Long , Li Zeng‐Shan , Zheng Ping‐Ju , Zhang Hui‐Zhong , Huang Xiao‐Feng , Chi Su‐Min , Yang An‐Gang , Cui Rutao
Published: January 2013

Cancer has been considered to be the result of accumulated gene mutations, which result in uncontrolled cell proliferations for a long time. Cancers are also regarded to be capable of immune evasion. Furthermore, resistance to apoptosis was recognized as an important trait of cancer in the last score of years. However, there are numerous paradoxical issues in this whole set of theory. For example, there is no known set of genes of which mutations are responsible for human cancers. As for the trait of ‘resistance to apoptosis’, the fact is that cancer has increased frequency of apoptosis. The more malignant the tumour is, the more apoptosis shows. In this study, we propose a new theory that apoptosis plays a key role in the malignant progression and metastasis of cancer. The growth of tumour is the difference between tumour cell proliferation and attrition plus the hyperplastic growth of stroma. Increased and unpreventable death caused by innate or environmental factors such as ischaemia and inflammation drives the tumour cells to proliferate relentlessly, move to new lands to establish colonies. In short, increased cell death is the origin of malignancy.
Implementation strategies – moving guidance into practice
Authors: Latibeaudiere Monique , Phillips Justin , Siassakos Dimitrios , Winter Cathy , Draycott Tim , Fox Robert
Published: January 2013

Key content

The importance of guideline development.

The gap between knowledge and practice.

Evidence for implementation strategies.

Learning objectives

To understand how simple guidelines fail to promote change.

To understand the evidence for implementation tools.

To understand the range of implementation tools, such as: integrated care pathways, care bundles (venous thromboembolism [VTE] risk assessment), equipment boxes (e.g. eclampsia), decision stickers (e.g. cardiotocography [CTG] analysis), safety briefings/structured ward rounds.

How to go about designing an implementation project.

How to effect change.
Nonpharmacological treatment of postmenopausal symptoms
Authors: Tong Iris L
Published: January 2013

Key content

Menopause is associated with an increase in vasomotor, genitourinary, and musculoskeletal symptoms as well as sleep and mood disturbance.

Menopause is also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.

While pharmacological agents are available to treat postmenopausal symptoms, many nonpharmacological options are also available.

Learning objectives

To review the current nonpharmacological agents that are available for the treatment of postmenopausal symptoms.

To review nonpharmacological options for prevention of diseases that occur at an increased incidence after menopause.

Ethical issues

While hormone replacement therapy is highly effective in the treatment of postmenopausal symptoms, it is associated with health risks and is not considered first‐line treatment.

Nonpharmacological therapies, including herbal agents, have emerged as options in the treatment of postmenopausal symptoms and are commonly used by postmenopausal women. However, herbal agents are not regulated in many countries, and therefore the contents of a given product varies from sample to sample.
Outflow tract disorders of the female genital tract
Authors: Edmonds D Keith , Rose Gillian L
Published: January 2013

Key content

Congenital anomalies of the genital tract are uncommon.

Embryological knowledge is essential in diagnosis and management.

Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is best managed in tertiary centres by a multidisciplinary team.

The more complex the obstructive disorder, the more specialist care is required.

Ultrasound imaging is usually all that is required.

Learning objectives

To understand the relationship between embryology and congenital abnormalities.

To gain ability to recognise those problems that need specialist care.

To understand the need for a holistic approach to care in MRKH syndrome.

Ethical issues

Is failure to provide a multidisciplinary holistic approach acceptable medical care?
Sperm counts may have declined in young university students in Southern Spain
Authors: Mendiola Jaime , Jørgensen Niels , Mínguez‐Alarcón Lidia , Sarabia‐Cos Laura , López‐Espín José J. , Vivero‐Salmerón Guillermo , Ruiz‐Ruiz Karen J. , Fernández Mariana F. , Olea Nicolás , Swan Shanna H. , Torres‐Cantero Alberto M.
Published: January 2013

Several studies have investigated temporal trends in semen quality in Northern Europe, but none has examined this question in Southern Europe. A prior study conducted in Almeria Province (Southern Spain) reported higher sperm count and concentration among Spanish young men recruited from 2001 to 2002 compared with young men from Northern Europe. The aim of this new study was to examine whether semen quality has changed among Spanish young men in the last decade. In this cross‐sectional study, questionnaires and semen samples were collected from 215 healthy young university students from Murcia Region between 2010 and 2011. The 273 men from the Almeria study previously studied were included in a trend analysis of the two populations from Southern Spain. Descriptive statistics were calculated for the Murcia study population and these and semen variables for the Murcia and Almeria study populations were compared. Study methods and population characteristics were similar across the two studies. Therefore, we used multiple linear regression analyses on the combined population (controlling for study centre, age, ejaculation abstinence time, season, smoking, medication during the last 3 months, Body mass index (BMI), presence of varicocoele and prenatal exposure to tobacco) to look for a birth‐cohort effect over the combined study period (2001–2011). Sperm concentration and total sperm count declined significantly with year of birth in the pooled analysis (β = −0.04 and β = −0.06, respectively, both p < 0.01). Sperm counts were significantly lower in Murcia study subjects than in the Almeria participants; sperm concentration median (5th–95th) = 44.0 (8.9–129) million/mL vs. 51.0 (5.0–206) million/mL; p < 0.01 and total sperm count = 121 (17.8–400) million vs. 149 (8.0–599) million; p < 0.01. Other semen variables did not differ significantly between the two studies. Our study suggests that total sperm count and sperm concentration may have declined in young Spanish men over the last decade.
Aeromonas spp. whole genomes and virulence factors implicated in fish disease
Authors: Beaz‐Hidalgo R , Figueras M J
Published: January 2013

It is widely recognized that Aeromonas infections produce septicaemia, and ulcerative and haemorrhagic diseases in fish, causing significant mortality in both wild and farmed freshwater and marine fish species that damage the economics of the aquaculture sector. The descriptions of the complete genomes of Aeromonas species have allowed the identification of an important number of virulence genes that affect the pathogenic potential of these bacteria. This review will focus on the most relevant information derived from the available Aeromonas genomes in relation to virulence and on the diverse virulence factors that actively participate in host adherence, colonization and infection, including structural components, extracellular factors, secretion systems, iron acquisition and quorum sensing mechanisms.
Comparative susceptibility among three stocks of yellow perch, Perca flavescens (Mitchill), to viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus strain IVb from the Great Lakes
Authors: Olson W , Emmenegger E , Glenn J , Winton J , Goetz F
Published: January 2013

The Great Lakes strain of viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus IVb (VHSV‐IVb) is capable of infecting a wide number of naive species and has been associated with large fish kills in the Midwestern United States since its discovery in 2005. The yellow perch, Perca flavescens (Mitchill), a freshwater species commonly found throughout inland waters of the United States and prized for its high value in sport and commercial fisheries, is a species documented in several fish kills affiliated with VHS. In the present study, differences in survival after infection with VHSV IVb were observed among juvenile fish from three yellow perch broodstocks that were originally derived from distinct wild populations, suggesting innate differences in susceptibility due to genetic variance. While all three stocks were susceptible upon waterborne exposure to VHS virus infection, fish derived from the Midwest (Lake Winnebago, WI) showed significantly lower cumulative % survival compared with two perch stocks derived from the East Coast (Perquimans River, NC and Choptank River, MD) of the United States. However, despite differences in apparent susceptibility, clinical signs did not vary between stocks and included moderate‐to‐severe haemorrhages at the pelvic and pectoral fin bases and exophthalmia. After the 28‐day challenge was complete, VHS virus was analysed in subsets of whole fish that had either survived or succumbed to the infection using both plaque assay and quantitative PCR methodologies. A direct correlation was identified between the two methods, suggesting the potential for both methods to be used to detect virus in a research setting.
Safety of Ready‐to‐Eat Watercress Using Environmentally Friendly Sanitization Methods
Authors: Hinojosa Andrea , Silveira Ana Cecilia , Ospina Monica , Char Cielo , Sáenz Carmen , Escalona Víctor H.
Published: January 2013

Chlorine‐based washing systems have been widely used by the fresh‐cut industry. However, there is much interest in developing safer and more environmentally friendly sanitization methods. Watercress was immersed in sodium hypochlorite (100 mg/L), hydrogen peroxide (167 mg/L) or citric acid (10 g/L) or exposed to ultraviolet C (UV‐C) light (6 or 18 kJ/m2 by exposure for 3 or 7 min, respectively), and stored in modified atmosphere packaging at 5C and 95% relative humidity. The respiration rate, packaging gas composition, color, microbiological growth (psychrotrophic and mesophilic microorganisms, Enterobacteriaceae, mold and yeasts), antioxidant capability, polyphenol content and sensory quality were measured. The different treatments did not affect the respiration rate (average 22 mg CO2/kg·h) after 14 days. Psychrotrophic bacteria reached approximately 7 log10 cfu/g, regardless of the treatment, after 14 days. UV‐C decreased mesophilic counts, while H2O2 reduced Enterobacteriaceae. UV‐C exposure increased the antioxidant capability, which was maintained throughout the storage. None of the treatments affected the color parameters and sensory quality. All of the treatments analyzed, especially UV‐C, may be useful for maintaining watercress quality.

Practical Applications

Increasing popularity of nontraditional vegetables has created a new opportunity for innovation in the development of horticultural minimally processed fresh products. This industry is interested in developing safer and more environmentally friendly sanitization methods to replace chlorine‐based washing systems. This study focused on the assessment of immersion in three chemical‐sanitizer solutions (sodium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide and citric acid) or the exposure to ultraviolet C (UV‐C) light in combination with modified atmosphere packaging and refrigerated storage (5C and 95% relative humidity). The evaluated disinfection methods resulted as or more effective at reducing microbial growth than chlorine washing. The UV‐C treatments improved the functional quality of watercress by increasing the total antioxidant capability and total polyphenol content. The implementation of low cost sanitization methods such as the tested alternative sanitizers or UV‐C light may be useful for maintaining the overall quality and extending the shelf life of ready‐to‐eat watercress and other vegetables.
Challenges in Assessing Nursing Home Residents with Advanced Dementia for Suspected Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Agata Erika D' , Loeb Mark B. , Mitchell Susan L.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To describe the presentation of suspected urinary tract infections (UTIs) in nursing home (NH) residents with advanced dementia and how they align with minimum criteria to justify antimicrobial initiation.

Design

Twelve‐month prospective study.

Setting

Twenty‐five NHs.

Participants

Two hundred sixty‐six NH residents with advanced dementia.

Measurements

Charts were abstracted monthly for documentation of suspected UTI episodes to determine whether episodes met minimum criteria to initiate antimicrobial therapy according to consensus guidelines.

Results

Seventy‐two residents experienced 131 suspected UTI episodes. Presenting symptoms and signs for these episodes are mental status change (44.3%), fever (20.6%), hematuria (6.9%), dysuria (3.8%), costovertebral tenderness (2.3%), urinary frequency (1.5%), rigor (1.5%), urgency (0%), and suprapubic pain (0%). Only 21 (16.0%) episodes met minimal criteria to initiate antimicrobial therapy based on signs and symptoms. Of the 110 episodes that lacked minimum criteria to justify antimicrobial initiation, 82 (74.5%) were treated with antimicrobial therapy. Urinalyses and urine culture results were available for 101 episodes, of which 80 (79.2%) had positive results on both tests. The proportion of episodes with a positive urinalysis and culture was similar for those that met (83.3%) and did not meet (78.3%) minimum criteria (P = .06).

Conclusion

The symptoms and signs necessary to meet minimum criteria to support antimicrobial initiation for UTIs are frequently absent in NH residents with advanced dementia. Antimicrobial therapy is prescribed for the majority of suspected UTIs that do not meet these minimum criteria. Urine specimens are frequently positive regardless of symptoms. These observations underscore the need to reconsider the diagnosis and the initiation of treatment for suspected UTIs in advanced dementia.
Fall‐Associated Difficulty with Activities of Daily Living in Functionally Independent Individuals Aged 65 to 69 in the United States: A Cohort Study
Authors: Sekaran Nishant K. , Choi Hwajung , Hayward Rodney A. , Langa Kenneth M.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

To determine whether falling would be a marker for future difficulty with activities of daily (ADLs) that would vary according to fall frequency and associated injury.

Design

Longitudinal analysis.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Nationally representative cohort of 2,020 community‐living, functionally independent older adults aged 65 to 69 at baseline followed from 1998 to 2008.

Measurements

ADL difficulty.

Results

Experiencing one fall with injury (odds ratio (OR) = 1.78, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.29–2.48), at least two falls without injury (OR = 2.36, 95% CI = 1.80–3.09), or at least two falls with at least one injury (OR = 3.75, 95% CI = 2.55–5.53) in the prior 2 years was independently associated with higher rates of ADL difficulty after adjustment for sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical covariates.

Conclusion

Falling is an important marker for future ADL difficulty in younger, functionally independent older adults. Individuals who fall frequently or report injury are at highest risk.
The crocidolite fibres interaction with human mesothelial cells as investigated by combining electron microscopy, atomic force and scanning near‐field optical microscopy
Authors: ANDOLFI LAURA , TREVISAN ELISA , ZWEYER MARINA , PRATO STEFANO , TROIAN BARBARA , VITA FRANCESCA , BORELLI VIOLETTA , SORANZO MARIA ROSA , MELATO MAURO , ZABUCCHI GIULIANO
Published: January 2013

In this study, we have performed a morphological analysis of crocidolite fibres interaction with mesothelial cells (MET5A) by combining conventional electron microscopy with atomic force (AFM) and scanning near‐field optical microscopy (SNOM). After 6‐h exposure at a crocidolite dose of 5 μg cm−2, 90% of MET5A cells interact with fibres that under these conditions have a low cytotoxic effect. SEM images point out that fibres can be either engulfed by the cells that lose their typical morphology or they can accumulate over or partially inside the cells, which preserve their typical spread morphology. By using AFM we are able to directly visualize the entry‐site of nanometric‐sized fibres at the plasma membrane of the spread mesothelial cells. More importantly, the crocidolite fibres that are observed to penetrate the plasma membrane in SNOM topography can be simultaneously followed beneath the cell surface in the SNOM optical images. The analysis of SNOM data demonstrates the entrance of crocidolite fibres in proximity of nuclear compartment, as observed also in the TEM images. Our findings indicate that the combination of conventional electron microscopy with novel nanoscopic techniques can be considered a promising approach to achieve a comprehensive morphological description of the interaction between asbestos fibres and mesothelial cells that represents the early event in fibre pathogenesis.
Stages and duration of the seminiferous epithelium cycle in the bat Sturnira lilium
Authors: Morais Danielle B. , de Paula Tarcízio A. R. , Barros Mirlaine S. , Balarini Maytê K. , de Freitas Mariella B. D. , da Matta Sérgio L. P.
Published: January 2013

Knowledge of the stages that compose the seminiferous epithelium cycle (SEC) and determination of the duration of spermatogenic processes are fundamental for the accurate quantification of the dynamics of spermatogenesis. The aim of this study was to characterize the stages that compose the SEC of the bat Sturnira lilium, including evaluation of the average frequency of each of these stages throughout the year and calculation of the duration of the spermatogenic process. An ultrastructural characterization of the formation of the acrosomal cap was also performed. Testicular fragments were processed for morphological and immunohistochemical analysis as well as ultrastructural analysis using transmission electron microscopy. According to the tubular morphology method, the SEC in S. lilium is divided into eight stages, following the pattern found in other mammals. Primary spermatocytes were found at zygotene in stage 1 of the cycle. There was no variation in frequency of each of the stages over the seasons, with stage 1 being the most frequent, and stage 7 the least frequent. The duration of one seminiferous epithelium cycle was 3.45 days, and approximately 15.52 days were required for the development of sperm from spermatogonia. Ultrastructural characterization allowed the formation of the acrosomal cap in round spermatids to be monitored. In conclusion, the stages that compose the SEC in S. lilium are generally similar to those described for other mammals, but the duration of the spermatogenic process is shorter than previously recorded for mammals. The presence of primary spermatocytes at zygotene in stage 1 of the cycle is probably due to the longer duration of this stage.
Identifying challenges of living with type 1 diabetes: child and youth perspectives
Authors: Freeborn Donna , Dyches Tina , Roper Susanne O , Mandleco Barbara
Published: January 2013

Aims and objectives

To identify challenges children and youth with type 1 diabetes encounter from their own perspectives.

Background

Type 1 diabetes requires lifestyle changes involving diet modification, monitoring blood glucose, counting carbohydrates and administering insulin. Learning self‐care and developing positive attitudes can improve glucose management and promote long‐term benefits. Therefore, understanding challenges of youth living with type 1 diabetes from their own perspective is an important first step in improving diabetes outcomes for this age group.

Design

Qualitative descriptive design using focus groups to identify the experiences and challenges of children and youth living with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Six focus groups were held over a four‐month period in 2010; each participant attended one focus group. A total of 16 children and youth with type 1 diabetes participated. The focus group discussions were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed for common themes according to qualitative methodology. To assure trustworthiness, investigators independently coded interviews and themes were refined and adjusted until consensus was reached.

Results

Three themes emerged after analysing transcripts from the focus groups that embody challenges children and youth with type 1 diabetes faced: (1) low blood glucose; (2) self‐care activities; and (3) feeling different and/or alone.

Conclusions

Data indicated type 1 diabetes is challenging for this age group. These challenges must be addressed to assist youth in learning to manage their disease and promote healthy outcomes.

Relevance to clinical practice

It is important for nurses to discuss challenges, understand perspectives of this age group, listen to their concerns, work with them to develop strategies promoting health, minimise complications, reduce or eliminate feeling different or alone and assist parents' efforts to be supportive.
Classification of crucigenoid algae: phylogenetic position of the reinstated genus Lemmermannia, Tetrastrum spp. Crucigenia tetrapedia, and C. lauterbornii (Trebouxiophyceae, Chlorophyta)1
Authors: Bock Christina , Luo Wei , Kusber Wolf‐Henning , Hegewald Eberhard , Pažoutová Marie , Krienitz Lothar
Published: January 2013

The subfamily Crucigenioideae was traditionally classified within the well‐characterized family Scenedesmaceae (Chlorophyceae). Several morpho‐logical revisions and questionable taxonomic changes hampered the correct classification of crucigenoid species resulting in a high number of synonymous genera. We used a molecular approach to determine the phylogenetic position of several Tetrastrum and Crucigenia species. The molecular results were correlated with morphological and ontogenetic characters. Phylogenetic analyses of the SSU rDNA gene resolved the position of Tetrastrum heteracanthum and T. staurogeniaeforme as a new lineage within the Oocystis clade of the Trebouxiophyceae. Crucigenia tetrapedia, T. triangulare, T. punctatum, and T. komarekii were shown to be closely related to Botryococcus (Trebouxiophyceae) and were transferred to Lemmer‐mannia. Crucigenia lauterbornii was not closely related to the other Crucigenia strains, but was recovered within the Chlorella clade of the Trebouxiophyceae.
Comparison of Force Plate Gait Analysis and Owner Assessment of Pain Using the Canine Brief Pain Inventory in Dogs with Osteoarthritis
Authors: Brown D.C. , Boston R.C. , Farrar J.T.
Published: January 2013

Background

Lameness assessment using force plate gait analysis (FPGA) and owner assessment of chronic pain using the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) are valid and reliable methods of evaluating canine osteoarthritis. There are no studies comparing these 2 outcome measures.

Objective

Evaluate the relationship betweenCBPIpain severity (PS) and interference (PI) scores with the vertical forces ofFPGAas efficacy measures in canine osteoarthritis.

Animals

Sixty‐eight client‐owned dogs with osteoarthritis (50 hind limb and 18 forelimb).

Methods

Double‐blind, randomized. Owners completed theCBPI, and dogs underwentFPGAon days 0 and 14. Dogs received carprofen or placebo on days 1 through 14. The change inPSandPIscores from day 0 to 14 were compared to the change in peak vertical force (PVF) and vertical impulse (VI).

Results

PSandPIscores significantly decreased in carprofen‐ compared with placebo‐treated dogs (P = .002 andP = .03, respectively).PVFandVIsignificantly increased in carprofen‐ compared with placebo‐treated dogs (P = .006 andP = .02, respectively). There was no correlation or concordance between thePSorPIscore changes and change inPVForVI.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

In these dogs with hind limb or forelimb osteoarthritis, owner assessment of chronic pain using theCBPIand assessment of lameness usingFPGAdetected significant improvement in dogs treated with carprofen. The lack of correlation or concordance between the change in owner scores and vertical forces suggests that owners were focused on behaviors other than lameness when making efficacy evaluations in their dogs.
Hemostatic Abnormalities in Uncomplicated Babesiosis (Babesia rossi) in Dogs
Authors: Liebenberg C. , Goddard A. , Wiinberg B. , Kjelgaard‐Hansen M. , van der Merwe L.L. , Thompson P.N. , Matjila P.T. , Schoeman J.P.
Published: January 2013

Background

Babesiosis in dogs is associated with severe thrombocytopenia; yet infected dogs rarely show clinical signs of hemorrhage.

Hypothesis

Dogs with uncomplicated babesiosis have normal hemostatic capacity despite severe thrombocytopenia.

Animals

Nineteen client‐owned dogs with uncomplicated babesiosis; 10 healthy controls.

Methods

A prospective, cross‐sectional, observational study. Thromboelastography (TEG), prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), fibrinogen, D‐dimers, and antithrombin (AT) measured in both groups. Statistical significance set at P < .01.

Results

Babesiosis group hematocrit and platelet count significantly lower than controls (0.29 versus 0.50 L/L; P < .001 and 20.0 versus 374.5 × 109/L; P < .001, respectively). Except for K, no significant difference in TEG variables between groups. Hemostatic variables for babesiosis group versus controls (mean ± SD); R: 5.9 ± 1.8 versus 4.6 ± 0.9 min (P = .048); K: 2.8 ± 1.1 versus 1.9 ± 0.6 min (P = .003); angle: 55.5 ± 11.7 versus 62.2 ± 4.1 degrees (P = .036); MA: 48.4 ± 9.7 versus 57.2 ± 5.2 mm (P = 0.013); G: 5.1 ± 1.9 versus 6.9 ± 1.5 dyn/cm2 (P = .019); LY30 (median, range): 0 (0–5.7) versus 0.6% (0–6.1) (P = .152); and LY60: 0 (0–8.8) versus 3.1% (0–13.1) (P = .012). AT activity significantly lower (105.2 ± 16.5 versus 127.8 ± 15.4%; P = .001). Fibrinogen concentration significantly higher in babesiosis group (5.7 ± 1.3 versus. 3.0 ± 0.7 g/L; P < .001).

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Despite severe thrombocytopenia, dogs with uncomplicated babesiosis did not have clinical signs of hemorrhage and TEG variables were normal, which could indicate a normocoagulable state.