bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discovery and verification of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis biomarkers by proteomics
Authors: Ryberg Henrik , An Jiyan , Darko Samuel , Lustgarten Jonathan Llyle , Jaffa Matt , Gopalakrishnan Vanathi , Lacomis David , Cudkowicz Merit , Bowser Robert
Published: June 2010

Recent studies using mass spectrometry have discovered candidate biomarkers for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). However, those studies utilized small numbers of ALS and control subjects. Additional studies using larger subject cohorts are required to verify these candidate biomarkers. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from 100 patients with ALS, 100 disease control, and 41 healthy control subjects were examined by mass spectrometry. Sixty‐one mass spectral peaks exhibited altered levels between ALS and controls. Mass peaks for cystatin C and transthyretin were reduced in ALS, whereas mass peaks for posttranslational modified transthyretin and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were increased. CRP levels were 5.84 ± 1.01 ng/ml for controls and 11.24 ± 1.52 ng/ml for ALS subjects, as determined by enzyme‐linked immunoassay. This study verified prior mass spectrometry results for cystatin C and transthyretin in ALS. CRP levels were increased in the CSF of ALS patients, and cystatin C level correlated with survival in patients with limb‐onset disease. Our biomarker panel predicted ALS with an overall accuracy of 82%. Muscle Nerve 42: 104–111, 2010
History of outcome measures for myasthenia gravis
Authors: Burns Ted M.
Published: June 2010

This review illustrates how measurements of clinical status in patients with myasthenia gravis have evolved from clinical descriptions and estimates of mortality rates to more sophisticated evaluative instruments, including numerical rating scales that measure strength, endurance, quality of life, and activities of daily living. The rationale and use of weighting and the importance of patient‐reported outcomes are also discussed. The measurement of the steroid‐sparing effect of an immunosuppressant is also reviewed. Muscle Nerve 42: 5–13, 2010
Prioritizing research: Patients, carers, and clinicians working together to identify and prioritize important clinical uncertainties in urinary incontinence
Authors: Buckley Brian S. , Grant Adrian M. , Tincello Douglas G. , Wagg Adrian S. , Firkins Lester
Published: June 2010

Aims

Research often neglects important gaps in existing evidence. Throughout healthcare, clinicians and patients face avoidable “clinical uncertainties” daily, making decisions about treatments without reliable evidence about their effects. This partnership of patients and clinicians aimed to identify and prioritize “clinical uncertainties” relating to treatment of urinary incontinence (UI).

Methods

UK clinician and patient organizations whose remit includes UI were invited to participate. Participating organizations consulted memberships to identify “uncertainties” affecting treatment decisions. “Uncertainties” were also identified in published research recommendations. Prioritization involved two phases: shortlisting of “uncertainties” by organizations; patient‐clinician prioritization using established consensus methods. Prioritized “uncertainties” were verified by checking any available relevant up‐to‐date published systematic reviews.

Results

Thirty organizations were invited; 8 patient and 13 clinician organizations participated. Consultation generated 417 perceived “uncertainties,” research recommendations 131. Refining, excluding and combining produced a list of 226. Prioritization shortlisted 29 “uncertainties,” then a “top ten” (5 submitted by clinicians, 4 by patients, 1 from research recommendations).

Conclusions

The partnership successfully developed and tested a systematic and transparent methodology for patient–clinician consultation and consensus. Through consensus, unanswered research questions of importance to patients and clinicians were identified and prioritized. The final list reflects the heterogeneity of populations, treatments and evidence needs associated with UI. Some prioritized “uncertainties” relate to treatments that are widely used yet whose effects are not thoroughly understood, some to access to care, some to precise surgical questions. Research needs to address the uncertainties range from systematic reviewing to primary research. Neurourol. Urodynam. 29:708–714, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stromal and epithelial predominant Wilms tumours have an excellent outcome: The SIOP 93 01 experience
Authors: Verschuur Arnauld C. , Vujanic Gordan M. , Van Tinteren Harm , Jones Kathy Pritchard , de Kraker Jan , Sandstedt Bengt
Published: June 2010

Background

Wilms tumour (WT) has various subtypes that are correlated with prognosis and require distinct therapy. Stromal predominant (SpWT) and epithelial WT (EpWT) have previously been associated with a good outcome. The current analysis describes the outcome and (tumour) characteristics of all patients with SpWT, EpWT, including highly differentiated epithelial type (HDET), treated according to the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP) 93‐01 study.

Procedure

All children older than 6 months and below 18 years of age with localized or metastatic WT and intermediate risk (IR) histology or HDET treated with pre‐operative chemotherapy were included in the present analysis.

Results

A total of 1,389 eligible patients had IR or HDET histology: 1% HDET, 4% EpWT, 10% SpWT, and 85% other IR. For EpWT/HDET, 93% had stage I/IIN−, 5‐year EFS was 90.2% and overall survival of (OS) 98.4%, as compared to 84.0% and 92.5% in other IR histology (NS). Stage I EpWT/HDET had a significant better outcome than stage I of other IR. In SpWT 82% of cases had stage I/IIN−; 5‐year EFS was 94.3% and OS 99.2%, significantly better compared to other IR histology. All patients with stage I are alive (2/149 relapses); 3/52 stage IIN−, 2/21 stage IIN+/III, and 6/12 stage IV patients relapsed (1 deceased per stage group).

Conclusions

The good outcome for EpWT and SpWT generally is very good which may be related to low age and low stage in most cases. A reduction of treatment intensity and/or duration may be justified especially for low stage SpWT that has an EFS close to 100%. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;55:233–238. © 2010 Wiley–Liss, Inc.
Effect of Relaxation on Spin Wave Resonance in Thin Ferromagnetic Films
Authors: Chartoryzhskii D. N. , Kaliniko A.
Published: June 2010

Forced nonuniform oscillations of the magnetic moment in a ferromagnetic film are considered, taking into account relaxation, dipole, and exchange interactions under various boundary conditions for the magnetization. Equations of the resonance frequencies of the spin wave oscillations are obtained, taking into account the losses for normally and tangentially magnetized films. Some criteria of the diecernibility of the resonance absorption maxima depending on spin wave resonance phenomena have been found. The concept of the film critical thickness L, has been introduced. The film properties at L > Lc are shown to have practically no differences from those of bulk ferrite slabs on microwave frequencies.
Flux Line Lattice in Anisotropic Type II Superconductors
Authors: Dobrosavljević L. , Raffy H.
Published: June 2010

Anisotropy effects on the flux line lattice in type II superconductors are investigated by means of an effective mass theory approach. Both a deformation and an orientation effect are found.
The Hole Mobility in a‐Edge‐Dislocated Tellurium Crystals
Authors: Doukhan J. C. , Drope R. , Farvacque J. L. , Gerlach E. , Geosse P.
Published: June 2010

The conductivity and the Hall effect are measured in the temperature range 4 to 300 K on pure tellurium crystals before and after a homogeneous plastic deformation. No remarkable change was found of the carrier concentration by the deformation. However, a strong anisotropic contribution to the hole scattering is induced by the dislocations. A theoretical treatment is given to explain this scattering mechanism by considering dislocations as charged lines. To explain the observed anisotropy which leads to the lowest mobility for the current parallel to the glide direction, it is assumed, that the dislocations are charged like a linear dipole and, furthermore, are arranged in a substructure.
Quenching Effects and Vacancy Characteristics in Zinc
Authors: Simon J. P. , Vostry P. , Hillairet J. , Vajda P.
Published: June 2010

Zinc single crystals and polycrystalline strips containing less than 10 ppm metallic impurities have been quenched from temperatures ranging between 20 and 240 °C to 4.2 K. Resistivity changes upon annealing were studied in the temperature range 70 to 450 K. The recovery spectrum is complicated by a cold work effect which is induced by the quenching and by the thermal cycling and superimposes on the elimination of the supersaturation concentration of vacancies. It was possible, however, to isolate the stage for the migration of single vacancies (around 180 K) and to measure the corresponding activation energy, (0.44 ± 0.03) eV. It is shown that, at low temperature, their migration proceeds essentially by nonbasal jumps. Furthermore, the vacancy formation energy has been determined to be (0.45 ± 0.05) eV.
The Application of X‐ray Diffuse Scattering to the Calculation of the FeAl Equilibrium Diagram
Authors: Semenovskaya S. V.
Published: June 2010

Absolute intensity measurements of diffuse X‐ray scattering on single crystals of disordered equilibrium FeAl alloys are made at (000), (111), and (1/2,1/2,1/2) points of the reciprocal lattice of b.c.c crystals. These measurements give the opportunity of obtaining the three corresponding Fourier transforms of the interchange energies. According to Khachaturyan's theory these Fourier transforms are the energetic parameters which completely determine the thermodynamics of FeAl alloys in a self‐consistent field approximation. For the case of long‐range interactions each of the three parameters obtained includes all of the interchange energies. The contribution to the free energy of the exchange interactions of the set of the local spins (So = 1) placed on Fe‐atoms was evaluated. This result and obtained experimental values of the three energetic parameters allowed to calculate the FeAl diagram. The calculated diagram is in a very good agreement with the most recent diagram by Swann, Duff, and Fisher obtained by an electron microscopic method (discrepancies with respect to absolute temperature and compositions are everywhere less than 11%) though “adopt” parameters are nowhere used to “tie” the calculated and observed diagram to each other. It is shown that the equilibrium diagram depends essentially on the magnetic contribution to the total free energy.
Magnetic Properties of Two‐Dimensional Iron Chloride Intercalated in Graphite
Authors: Hohlwein D. , Readman P. W. , Chamberod A. , Coey J. M. D.
Published: June 2010

Susceptibility and Mössbauer measurements have been made on a saturated FeCl3‐ graphite intercalation compound with alternating graphite and FeCl3,‐layers. It orders magnetically at 4 K. Extreme broadening of the Mössbauer spectrum is found in the critical region, and there is no anomaly in the sucseptibility. The moments lie in planes which are antiferromagnetic. Anisotropy of the susceptibility is ascribed t o the presence of Fez+ ions a t low temperatures, but a t room temperature there is rapid electron hopping between the iron sites.
Amorphous Antiferromagnetism: The Cluster Approach in Doped Semiconductors
Authors: Marko J. R. , Quirt J. D.
Published: June 2010

A simple method is outlined for the calculation of the paramagnetic spin susceptibility χs appropriate t o a random spatial distribution of antiferromagnetically coupled spins. This method considers the microscopic sample to be a collection of decoupled clusters each containing three spins. It is specifically applied t o the n‐type silicon system with donor impurity concentrations in the range 1017 donors,/cm3 ≦ ND, ≦ 4 × 1018 donors/cm3. The resulting theoretical susceptibilities were of the Curie‐Weiss form for temperatures T > 5 K, but exhibited steepening of the xs−1 vs. T curves a t low temperatures and high concentrations. Both of these features have been observed in amorphous antiferromagnetic systems.
57 Fe Mössbauer Lineshapes in Disordered Ni3/Mn
Authors: Ray J. , Radhakrishnan T. S. , Bansal C. , Chanura G.
Published: June 2010

Mössbauer studies of 57Co doped disordered Ni3Mn are presented in the temperature range 77 to 500 K. The spectra consist of a well resolved six‐line pattern a t 77 K, becoming complex and showing hyperfine structure at higher temperatures, and finally collapsing t o a single line around 473 K. 57Fe Mössbauer line shapes in disordered Ni3Mn have been computed in this temperature range using a model which assigns an average exchange integral to an atom depending on its nearest neighbour (nn) atoms. Owing to the distribution of Tc of the various nn configuration clusters for a given central atom, there is a distribution in hyperfine fields, and the spectrum a t any temperature is the superposition of the different fields suitably weighted. The spectra simulated basing on this model agree with the experimental spectra.
Estimates of Angular and Energy Distributions of Ions Reflected from a Single Crystal
Authors: Karpuzov D. S.
Published: June 2010

Ion reflection based on a two‐target‐atom model is considered. In this approximation simple estimates of the angular distribution for small sliding angles are obtained (with or without thermal vibrations of atoms). The energy spectra in this case are also discussed.
The Advantages of Using Spherical Harmonics to Analyse Data on Magnetocrystalline Anisotropy and Other Non‐Linear Anisotropic Properties
Authors: Birss R. R. , Keeler G. J.
Published: June 2010

It is important, in considering certain physical properties, to allow for the existence of non‐linear anisotropy. Using magnetocrystalline anisotropy as an example, the role of symmetry is discussed in relation t o the description of non‐linear anisotropy and to the analysis of the corresponding experimental data (with particular reference to uniaxial and cubic symmetry). The advantages of using orthonormal functions, such as spherical harmonics, are demonstrated, both in general terms and also by specific application t o experimental data on magnetocrystalline anisotropy.
Influence of Plasmons on X‐Ray Emission Bands of Some Simple Metals
Authors: Pimpale A. , Mande C.
Published: June 2010

The appearance of plasmon satellites in the X‐ray emission spectra should give rise to a reduction in free electron conduction band widths according to the intensity conservation rule. A simple method is suggested to study this reduction by modifying the Sommerfeld formula for the phase space available to the single‐particle excitations and the effective electronic mass due to the existence of the plasmons. It is found that the calculated band widths agree fairly well with corresponding experimental values for some simple metals. The inclusion of the exchange and correlations, however, removes the agreement between the theoretical and experimental values of the band width. This is attributed to the fact that the long‐ and short‐wavelength tails are avoided in experimental measurements, whereas their effects are included in the exchange and correlation corrections.
Theory of Lattice Thermal Conductivity of Anharmonic Crystals with Impurities
Authors: Altukhov V. I.
Published: June 2010

The correlation function method (Kubo's formula) is used to investigate the lattice thermal conductivity of a disordered anharmonic crystal. It is shown that in the one‐particle approximation the thermal conductivity coefficient may be expressed by the dynamical Green's function. The latter is calculated for the anharmonic lattice containing a small amount of impurities with a random distribution. The theory suggested describes the simultaneous action of anharmonic and impurity mechanisms of the phonon scattering and may thus be used for the investigation of the interference of these scattering mechanisms.
Scanning electron microscopy studies of double‐layer silicon structures prepar by epitaxy and direct bonding
Authors: Govorkov A. V. , Enisherlova K. L. , Milvidskii M. G. , Chervyakova E. N.
Published: June 2010

The electrical properties of multilayer structures obtained by direct bonding of silicon wafers and epitaxial growth have been investigated. The measurements were made by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in either secondary electron or electron beam‐induced current (EBIC) regime, using cross sections of the structures with a p‐n junction formed in the subsurface region of the active layer. The measurements of defect recombination activity were made using Schottky diodes formed on the active layer surfaces. Parasitic p‐n junctions in some samples under a small direct voltage have been observed and the reason for the appearance of such parasitic junctions has been established. Two types of defects with different distribution densities and amplitudes of EBIC contrast have been detected.
Microanalysis using secondary electrons in scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Mil'shteinand S. , Joy D. C.
Published: June 2010

A recent study of secondary electron (SE) spectra in an Auger spectrometer demonstrated unique features indicative of the chemical nature of the tested material. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) naturally generates SEs; therefore, in this paper, we combine the concept of using differential voltage contrast (DVC) with SE spectroscopy to identify the chemical nature of a material. It is demonstrated that this method reveals the uniqueness of electron energy distribution in the conduction band of a solid or, what is the same, the uniqueness of a build‐up of the outer electron shell system, and avoids errors due to the changes in the angular distribution oryield of the SE in the SEM. A theory of this new microanalytical method is developed. The experimental limitations of the SEM for this type of study are examined as well.
Simulations of scanning electron microscopy imaging and charging of insulating structures
Authors: Grella Luca , Lorusso Gian , Adler David L.
Published: June 2010

We present a three‐dimensional simulation of scanning electron microscope (SEM) images and surface charging. First, the field above the sample is calculated using Laplace's equation with the proper boundary conditions; then, the simulation algorithm starts following the electron trajectory outside the sample by using electron ray tracing. When the electron collides with the specimen, the algorithm keeps track of the electron inside the sample by simulating the electron scattering history with a Monte Carlo code. During this phase, secondary and backscattered electrons are emitted to form an image and primary electrons are absorbed; therefore, a charge density is formed in the material. This charge density is used to recalculate the field above and inside the sample by solving the Poisson equation with the proper boundary conditions. Field equation, Monte Carlo scattering simulation, and electron ray tracing are therefore integrated in a self‐consistent fashion to form an algorithm capable of simulating charging and imaging of insulating structures. To maintain generality, this algorithm has been implemented in three dimensions. We shall apply the so‐defined simulation to calculate both the global surface voltage and local microfields induced by the scanning beam. Furthermore, we shall show how charging affects resolution and image formation in general and how its characteristics change when imaging parameters are changed. We shall address magnification, scanning strategy, and applied field. The results, compared with experiments, clearly indicate that charging and the proper boundary conditions must be included in order to simulate images of insulating features. Furthermore, we shall show that a three‐dimensional implementation is mandatory for understanding local field formation.
Pathways toward improving teaching and learning in higher education: International context and background
Authors: Lewis Karron G.
Published: June 2010

People are drawn to the field of improving teaching and learning in higher education from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds, but before we look at these “pathways,” we need to delve into the history, international variations, and similarities of the field of faculty/educational/academic development to provide a context for what has happened to make this field important to the vitality of teaching and learning in higher education all over the world.
Charting pathways into the field of educational development
Authors: McDonald Jeanette
Published: June 2010

The pathways of eighteen educational developers are mapped based on a Canadian university study.
Conceptualizing evolving models of educational development
Authors: Fraser Kym , Gosling David , Sorcinelli Mary Deane
Published: June 2010

During the almost fifty‐year history of educational development, researchers have conceptualized a number of models to describe the work of the field. These models all fit within a broad conceptual framework that consists of three distinct yet overlapping approaches that are identified in this chapter.
Moving from the periphery to the center of the academy: Faculty developers as leaders of change
Authors: Dawson Debra , Mighty Joy , Britnell Judy
Published: June 2010

As faculty developers become more central as leaders within the university, strengthening their change management skills becomes more important for their success. Kotter's model of change management may be a useful tool for developers for this endeavor.
Assessing the impact of educational development through the lens of the scholarship of teaching and learning
Authors: Hoessler Carolyn , Britnell Judy , Stockley Denise
Published: June 2010

The scholarship of teaching and learning is highlighted within this chapter as one approach for educational developers to use in examining the impact of their practice at a programmatic and institutional level.
Value commitments and ambivalence in educational development
Authors: Gosling David
Published: June 2010

Educational development is driven by strong value commitments, and yet there are questions concerning the key goals that educational development strives to achieve.
Evaluation of the CHOP cardiovascular score as a prognostic predictor of outcome in twin–twin transfusion syndrome after laser coagulation of placental vessels in a prospective cohort
Authors: Stirnemann J. J. , Nasr B. , Proulx F. , Essaoui M. , Ville Y.
Published: June 2010

Objective

To investigate the prognostic value of cardiac function assessment by the previously reported CHOP (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia) cardiovascular score in twin–twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS).

Methods

All consecutive monochorionic pregnancies presenting with TTTS over a 24‐month period were evaluated by preoperative echocardiography before percutaneous laser coagulation of chorionic vessels. Each of the 12 items of the CHOP score was evaluated prospectively and the cardiovascular score was categorized into stages using previously published cut‐offs. The outcome considered for this study was neonatal survival of neither, one or both twins.

Results

In total, 215 pregnancies were enrolled. Due to technical issues, CHOP evaluation was incomplete in 16% of cases and follow‐up was unavailable in 12%. Overall, there was a significant relationship between the CHOP score and the Quintero staging system, although this relationship was significantly reduced when parameters used in the Quintero system were removed from the CHOP score. Based upon neonatal survival, the CHOP score did not show any prognostic value regarding overall pregnancy outcome or individual recipient survival.

Conclusion

Cardiac function assessment using the CHOP score is not of clinical use as a prognostic marker in TTTS. This suggests that cardiac function may not be of interest for preoperative staging when laser coagulation is the first‐line treatment, other than to confirm the diagnosis of TTTS requiring surgery. Copyright © 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Methods of Emulsifying Linoleic Acid in Biohydrogenation Studies In Vitro May Bias the Resulting Fatty Acid Profiles
Authors: Khiaosa‐ard Ratchaneewan , Leiber Florian , Soliva Carla R.
Published: June 2010

The effects of three emulsifying methods on ruminal fatty acid biohydrogenation (BH) in vitro were compared. Using a static in‐vitro gas test system, four replicates of each treatment were incubated in buffered ruminal fluid. Hemicellulose (300 mg dry matter) was supplemented either with or without linoleic acid (9c12c‐18:2, 5% in diet dry matter) and incubated for 4 and 24 h. Three methods of emulsifying 9c12c‐18:2 were tested: (1) ethanol, (2) Tween® 80, and (3) sonication. The products were then compared to non‐emulsified 9c12c‐18:2. Out of the three emulsifying methods tested, ethanol and sonication resulted in stable 9c12c‐18:2 emulsions, indicating good 9c12c‐18:2 distribution, while the Tween® 80 emulsion was less stable. BH was strongly inhibited by treating 9c12c‐18:2 with ethanol and sonication at different steps of the BH‐pathway, resulting in changed concentrations of certain BH intermediates. The fatty acid profile generated from the major BH‐pathways of 9c12c‐18:2 with Tween® 80 was comparable to that without emulsification after 24 h of incubation. We conclude that it is not recommended to emulsify lipids before incubating them in vitro when investigating fatty acid BH. If emulsification of 9c12c‐18:2 is necessary, Tween® 80 seems to be the method that interferes least with BH.
Microscale Surface Roughening of Chocolate Viewed with Optical Profilometry
Authors: Rousseau Dérick , Sonwai Sopark , Khan Rizwan
Published: June 2010

Microtopographical roughening and fat phase melting of milk chocolate subjected to three temperature cycles between 20 and 28, 30, 32, or 34 °C were examined using optical profilometry and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Cycling to any of these temperatures did not lead to immediate visual bloom, though significant effects on microstructure and fat phase melting behavior were noted. The initial chocolate topography was lightly mottled and consisted of small asperities. DSC indicated the presence of form V crystals in control chocolates kept isothermally, with form VI crystals appearing with cycling to 30 and 32 °C. The fat phase of the chocolates cycled to 34 °C existed only in the form IV polymorph. As a result of cycling, the surface roughness of all samples increased, with the smallest rise seen with cycling to 28 °C. Decomposition of the roughness into low and high‐frequency components revealed a significant contribution of waviness (the low‐frequency component) to overall roughness, particularly with cycling to 34 °C. Furthermore, with the fat phase fully molten, the backbone structure consisting of the dispersed particulates also contributed to overall roughness. This study demonstrated that significant microstructural changes and deformation take place within chocolate as a result of temperature fluctuations prior to the onset of visible surface fat bloom.
When the caps fall off: Responses to telomere uncapping in yeast
Authors: Wellinger Raymund J.
Published: June 2010

Telomeres protect the ends of linear chromosomes from activities that cause sequence losses or challenge chromosome integrity. Furthermore, these ends must be hidden from detection by the DNA damage recognition and response pathways. In particular, they must not fuse with each other. These fundamental and very first functions attributed to telomeres are also summarized with the term ‘chromosome capping’. However, telomeres can become uncapped and the foremost cellular responses to such events aim to restore genome stability in the most conservative fashion possible. I will provide an outline of cellular responses to uncapping in budding yeast and briefly discuss the reverse, namely avoidance mechanisms that prevent telomere formation at inappropriate places.
Syndecan‐ and integrin‐binding peptides synergistically accelerate cell adhesion
Authors: Hozumi Kentaro , Kobayashi Kazuki , Katagiri Fumihiko , Kikkawa Yamato , Kadoya Yuichi , Nomizu Motoyoshi
Published: June 2010

Integrins and syndecans mediate cell adhesion to extracellular matrix and their synergistic cooperation is implicated in cell adhesion processes. We previously identified two active peptides, AG73 and EF1, from the laminin α1 chain LG4 module, that promote cell attachment through syndecan‐ and α2β1 integrin‐binding, respectively. Here, we examined time‐dependent cell attachment on the mixed peptides AG73/EF1. The AG73/EF1 promoted stronger and more rapid cell attachment, spreading, FAK phosphorylation that reached a maximum at 20 min than that on AG73 (40 min) or EF1 (90 min) supplied singly. Thus, the syndecan‐ and α2β1 integrin‐binding peptides synergistically affect cells and accelerate cell adhesion.
Solvent inhalation (toluene and n‐hexane) during the brain growth spurt impairs the maturation of frontal, parietal and occipital cerebrocortical neurons in rats
Authors: Pascual Rodrigo , Aedo Luz , Meneses Juan Carlos , Vergara Daniela , Reyes Álvaro , Bustamante Carlos
Published: June 2010

Solvent abuse during pregnancy may cause “fetal solvent syndrome”, which is characterized by mild brain atrophy and associated with behavioral, cognitive, and emotional abnormalities. The present study investigated whether solvent inhalation during the preweaning period (P2–P21) alters the morphological maturation of frontal, parietal, and occipital cortical neurons. Twelve hours after delivery (postnatal day 0, P0), litters were cross‐fostered, culled to 8 pups/dam and housed together with a dam in standard laboratory cages. Litters were randomly assigned to the “air‐only” group (n = 64, 8 litters) and to the “solvent‐sniffer” group (n = 72, 9 litters). During P2–P21, each animal was exposed daily to either organic solvent vapors (75% toluene and 18% n‐hexane, a solvent mixture commonly found in glues and adhesives) or clean air. To determine the impact of early solvent inhalation on cortical neuronal differentiation, brains were stained using the Golgi‐Cox‐Sholl procedure to quantitatively assess neocortical pyramidal cell dendrogenesis. Preweaning, solvent‐exposed animals displayed dramatic impairments in dendritic growth as well as significant reductions in brain weight and size.
Characterization of developing rat cortical neurons after epileptiform discharges
Authors: Jiang Qian , Wu Ye , Wang Jingmin , Wu Xiru , Qin Jiong , Jiang Yuwu
Published: June 2010

The developing brain undergoes major reorganization in response to early environmental changes. The elevated excitation that allows the neonatal brain to develop quickly also makes it highly vulnerable to age‐specific seizures that can cause lifelong cognitive and neurological disability. However, it is not yet clear how seizures interfere with the developmental program and how epileptogenesis actualize. Here, by using anin vitromodel, we report a global abnormal status of cortical cells after epileptiform activity was induced: more NR2B is targeted on the neuronal surface with less NR2A. Dendrotoxicity including dendritic beading, distortion and simplification of dendritic branching patterns were observed. Early‐life seizure‐like insults also exert effects on the excitatory synaptic size and interactions between PSD‐95 and NR2A or NR2B receptor subunits. Our findings support an abnormal development or, worse, cellular degeneration that resembles immature cells, which may enlighten better understanding of the pathological mechanism of early‐life seizures and its related injury.
Guanidino compounds inhibit acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activities: Effect neuroprotector of vitamins E plus C
Authors: Delwing‐de Lima Daniela , Wollinger Luiz Felipe , Casagrande Ana Carolina Mesquita , Delwing Fábio , da Cruz José Geraldo Pereira , Wyse Angela T.S. , Delwing‐Dal Magro Débora
Published: June 2010

Hyperargininemia is a metabolic disorder biochemically characterized by tissue accumulating of arginine and other guanidino compounds. Convulsions, lethargy and psychomotor delay or cognitive deterioration are predominant clinical features of this disease. Although neurologic symptoms predominate in this disorder, their pathophysiology is still unknown. In the present study we initially investigated the in vitro effect of arginine, homoarginine, N‐acetylarginine and argininic acid on acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase in hippocampus and serum of 15‐, 30‐ and 60‐day‐old rats. Results showed that arginine in vitro significantly decreased acetylcholinesterase activity in hippocampus of 15‐day‐old rats and increased this enzyme activity in hippocampus of 60‐day‐old rats, homoarginine and N‐acetylarginine significantly increased acetylcholinesterase activity both in hippocampus of 15‐ and 30‐day‐old rats. On the other hand, butyrylcholinesterase was inhibited by homoarginine in serum of 15‐day‐old rats. The influence of the antioxidants trolox and ascorbic acid on the effects elicited by arginine, homoarginine and N‐acetylarginine was also studied. Results showed that these antioxidants were able to prevent the alteration on acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activities caused by guanidine compounds studied, suggesting that alterations on these cholinesterases were probably mediated by free radicals. It is presumed that these results might be associated, at least in part, with the neuronal dysfunction of patients affected by hyperargininemia.
ISFM and AAFP Consensus Guidelines: Long-Term use of NSAIDs in Cats
Authors: Sparkes Andrew H , Heiene Reidun , Lascelles B Duncan X , Malik Richard , Real Llibertat , Robertson Sheilah , Scherk Margie , Taylor Polly
Published: June 2010

NSAIDs and cats Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are an important class of drug in feline medicine, having analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activity. While most published data on their use in this species relate to short-term (often perioperative) therapy, there is increasing evidence of the value of these drugs in treating chronic pain in cats (for example, that associated with degenerative joint disease), and some NSAIDs have now become licensed for long-term use in cats in some geographies. Most of our knowledge of therapeutic mechanisms or adverse drug reactions associated with NSAIDs is extrapolated from work in other species, and there is a paucity of published data relating to cats.

Guidelines These guidelines have been drawn together by an expert panel, which have reviewed the current literature on long-term NSAID use in cats and other species, and developed guidance on their use based on this information. The aim is to provide practical information for veterinarians to encourage appropriate NSAID therapy whenever cats will benefit from the use of these drugs.
Reproduction Control in Cats: New Developments in Non-Surgical Methods
Authors: Goericke-Pesch Sandra
Published: June 2010

Practical relevance Reproduction control is an area of feline medicine that is assuming increasing importance in companion animal practice. Signs of oestrus such as increased vocalisation, rolling on the ground and a very short interoestrous interval may negatively influence the relationship between cat and owner, and prompt the owner to seek a method of reproduction control. In breeding catteries, control of reproduction may be needed as part of a planned breeding programme.

Clinical challenges Surgical contraception is not always the owner's wish — especially when a cat may be intended for future breeding. Besides, ethical principles and animal welfare legislation in an increasing number of countries are imposing restrictions on this ‘classical approach’ to reproduction control. Progestins are routinely used as non-surgical alternatives in cases where fertility is to be preserved, but the associated risks of uterine disease, mammary tumours, fibroadenomatosis or diabetes mellitus have to be taken into account — especially in predisposed animals. Modern, effective pharmacological alternatives are available for managing oestrous suppression and unwanted pregnancy. Detailed knowledge of the physiology of the oestrous cycle in the cat is necessary to ensure that the appropriate treatment is chosen for the individual animal and its owner.

Audience This article presents an update for small animal practitioners on these alternative methods; specifically, the use of slow-release GnRH agonists or melatonin implants for hormonal contraception, and the antiprogestin aglepristone for pregnancy termination.

Evidence base Several studies have documented the mode of action and risk of side effects of the traditional alternative to surgical castration — treatment with progestins. Evidence underpinning the safety and efficacy of GnRH agonists and melatonin implants for suppression of fertility in queens and toms is reviewed.
Snots and Snuffles: Rational Approach to Chronic Feline Upper Respiratory Syndromes
Authors: Scherk Margie
Published: June 2010

Practical relevance While the most common cause of chronic upper respiratory disease signs in cats is viral disease, with subsequent, self-perpetuating inflammation, other, more discrete causes need to be ruled out. These include foreign bodies, bacterial or fungal infections, oral-dental diseases and neoplasia. Any factors contributing to alterations in the structure or function of the upper airways, including inflammation of any cause, will compromise normal function and predispose to chronic damage if the cat is unable to resolve the underlying factors.

Clinical challenges The chronic feline snuffler is a frustrating patient to treat. The longer the course of disease, the more severe the consequences to affected tissues, and the more debilitated the patient becomes. A logical diagnostic plan to differentiate probable etiologies and to rule out non-viral causes results in appropriate therapeutic choices. Even with a viral etiology, therapies to reduce the pathological consequences of infection may modulate and help control the clinical signs. Some novel choices and drug combinations are discussed in this review.

Patient group Cats of all ages may be affected. Cats with conformational (breed or malformation) characteristics, such as short or convoluted nasal passages or very small nostrils, are predisposed to unresolving inflammation. Fungal disease is more relevant in specific geographic regions, making inclusion of a travel history important in history collection. Older cats are more likely to have neoplasia-induced signs.

Audience This review is directed at all veterinarians who see cats with chronic, recurrent upper respiratory disease.
Clinical Effectiveness: What does it Mean for Practitioners — and Cats?
Authors: Viner Bradley
Published: June 2010

Practical relevance Optimising the clinical outcome for the cases we treat has to be of primary importance to every practitioner wherever they are working and whatever their sphere of practice, yet it requires much more than just clinical knowledge. This review discusses how a system of good clinical governance can help to achieve this goal. It focuses on clinical effectiveness, which in part involves the application of evidence-based veterinary medicine to formulate protocols or guidelines to help standardise and improve the quality of care given.

Benefits Once such guidance is in place, the measurement of clinical outcomes using the process of clinical audit can be of great assistance in ensuring that best practice is effectively applied. Both the theory and practical application of the so-called ‘clinical audit cycle’ within feline practice are illustrated in this review.

Prerequisites The use of such clinical management tools requires development of the necessary skills and protected time to apply them, but, as discussed, they can bring a broad range of benefits to the practice and its patients.
Developing an Innovative Care Delivery Model: Interprofessional Practice Teams
Authors: Poochikian-Sarkissian Sonia , Hunter JoAnne , Tully Sandra , Lazar Neil M. , Sabo Kathy , Cursio Christine
Published: June 2010

An interprofessional project team at the University Health Network (UHN) completed a project to develop an Interprofessional Patient-Centred Practice (IPCP) Framework, explore enablers and barriers to collaborative practice and recommend a model of care delivery and interprofessional practice.

The following recommendations were made: adopt proposed IPCP Framework as the basis for developing interprofessional teams, implement an IPCP tool kit as a resource, develop evidence-based interventions across health care teams, and educate health professionals on IPCP.
La conception d'un modèle novateur de prestation des soins: Les équipes de pratique interprofessionnelle
Authors: Poochikian-Sarkissian Sonia , Hunter JoAnne , Tully Sandra , Lazar Neil M. , Sabo Kathy , Cursio Christine
Published: June 2010

Une équipe de projet interprofessionnelle de l' University Health Network (UHN) a terminé un projet visant à élaborer une structure de pratique interprofessionnelle axée sur le patient (PIAP), à explorer les catalyseurs et les obstacles à une pratique coopérative et à recommander un modèle de prestation des soins et de pratique interprofessionnelle.

L'équipe a fait les recommandations suivantes: adopter un projet de structure de PIAP pour mettre sur pied des équipes interprofessionnelles, implanter une trousse de PIAP qui servira de ressource, élaborer des interventions probantes au sein des équipes de soins et informer les professionnels de la santé de la PIAP.
Workplace Wellness Programs in Canada: An Exploration of Key Issues
Authors: Morrison Erin , MacKinnon Neil J.
Published: June 2010

Faced with the reality of rising health costs, Canadian employers are thinking beyond traditional notions of responsibility for employee health and have begun to embrace Workplace Wellness Programs (WWPs). This article investigates the critical issues of WWPs in the Canadian context from the perspective of key stakeholders. Using a combination of literature and key informant interviews, seven key themes are presented along with recommendations for wider implementation of WWPs in Canada.
A Review of Evidence on the Reliability and Validity of Minimum Data Set Data
Authors: Poss J.W. , Jutan N.M. , Hirdes J.P. , Fries B.E. , Morris J.N. , Teare G.F. , Reidel K.
Published: June 2010

This paper reviews the reliability and validity of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment, which is being used increasingly in Canadian nursing homes and continuing care facilities. The central issues that surround the development and implementation of a standardized assessment such as the MDS are presented, including implications for health care managers in how to approach data quality concerns. With other sectors such as home care and inpatient psychiatry using MDS for national reporting, these issues have importance in and beyond residential care management.
Political, Policy and Social Barriers to Health System Interoperability: Emerging Opportunities of Web 2.0 and 3.0
Authors: Juzwishin Donald W. M.
Published: June 2010

Achieving effective health informatics interoperability in a fragmented and uncoordinated health system is by definition not possible. Interoperability requires the simultaneous integration of health care processes and information across different types and levels of care (systems thinking). The fundamental argument of this paper is that information system interoperability will remain an unfulfilled hope until health reforms effectively address the governance (accountability), structural and process barriers to interoperability of health care delivery. The ascendency of Web 2.0 and 3.0, although still unproven, signals the opportunity to accelerate patients' access to health information and their health record. Policy suggestions for simultaneously advancing health system delivery and information system interoperability are posited.
Les obstacles politiques, sociaux et provinciaux à l'interopérabilité du système de santé: Les possibilités émergentes de Web 2.0 et 3.0
Authors: Juzwishin Donald W. M.
Published: June 2010

Par définition, il est impossible d'obtenir une interopérabilité efficace en informatique de la santé dans un système de santé fragmenté et non coordonné. L'interopérabilité exige l'intégration simultanée des processus et de l'information en matière de soins de santé entre les divers types et niveaux de soins (pensée systémique). L'argument fondamental avancé dans le présent article, c'est que l'interopérabilité des systèmes d'information demeurera un espoir insatisfait tant que les réformes de la santé ne régleront pas avec efficacité les obstacles à l'interopérabilité de la prestation des soins sur le plan de la gouvernance (responsabilité), des structures et des processus. L'ascendance de Web 2.0 et 3.0, même si elle n'est pas encore démontrée, signale l'occasion d'accélérer l'accès des patients à l'information sur la santé et à leurs propres dossiers de santé. L'auteur présente des suggestions de mesures visant à faire progresser simultanément la prestation du système de santé et l'interopérabilité des systèmes d'information.
The Art and Science of Transforming Canada's Health System
Authors: Schroeder Harold
Published: June 2010

This article considers whether greater attention to the art and the science aspects of organizational change can help achieve a smoother transition to future regionalized health services in Canada. The reported problems with the current system are considered and a key-point checklist based on the art and science of transformation is proposed for adoption by health system planners. It is argued that this will help address the current shortcomings of Canada's health system and improve the future delivery of Canada's health care services.
How to Control the Costs of Health Care Services — An Inventory of Strategic Options
Authors: Dionne Francois , Mitton Craig , Shoveller Jean , Peacock Stuart , Barer Morris
Published: June 2010

This paper has two objectives: (1) to provide an inventory of popular strategies for cost reduction or cost containment in the health services research literature and (2) to propose a coherent framework to organize this inventory. The purpose of this framework is to inform decision-makers when grappling with the opposing forces they face in choosing a cost reduction strategy. The trade-off is clear: to access progressively more possible strategies, the decision-maker must be ready to expose the population and patients to more significant changes in services provided. On one hand, more choices are preferable because each strategy attacks the problem from a different angle and being restricted to fewer “angles” increases the likelihood that a specific “well” may have dried up. On the other hand, we know that change is often viewed, a priori, negatively in health care management, so there are pressures to limit the impact on services.
The Chronic Care Model: Which Physician Practice Organizations Adapt Best?
Authors: Rondeau Kent V. , Bell Neil R.
Published: June 2010

Chronic diseases remain among the major causes of death and disability in Canada as well as in other western industrialized nations. The episodic, punctuated, acute care model of health service delivery that describes the organization and orientation of care delivery is ill prepared to meet the needs of society burdened by chronic illness. The chronic care model (CCM) has been advanced as a way by which primary care practices can be transformed to meet the challenge of chronic illness. The objective of this research is to examine how well primary care physician practices, including walk-in clinics, solo family practices, group family practices, community health centres and physicians practicing in primary care networks, are succeeding at implementing the components of the CCM. Results suggest that physician primary care practices have considerable way to go in implementing the model, with walk-in clinics and solo family practices showing the least progress in inculcating its components.