bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitral bioprosthesis hypertrophic scaring and native aortic valve fibrosis during benfluorex therapy
Authors: Ayme‐Dietrich Estelle , Lawson Roland , Gasser Bernard , Dallemand Robert , Bischoff Nicolas , Monassier Laurent
Published: February 2012

The authors describe the case of a simultaneous mitral bioprosthesis hypertrophic scaring and native aortic valve fibrosis during benfluorex therapy in a 40‐year‐old woman. Four years before, she underwent a mitral valve replacement after the diagnosis of mitral regurgitation during benfluorex treatment (150 mg/day). This drug was reintroduced postoperatively. She presented with exercise and sometimes resting dyspnoea. The bioprosthesis and aortic valves exhibited similar histopathological lesions. Thickening and plaque deposits made by smooth muscle alpha actin‐ and vimentin‐positive cells in a glycosaminoglycan matrix were observed. The study discusses the putative contribution of circulating progenitor cells activated by 5‐HT2B receptor agonists in the development of drug‐induced heart disease.
Beneficial effects of beta‐blockers on left ventricular function and cellular energy reserve in patients with heart failure
Authors: Spoladore Roberto , Fragasso Gabriele , Perseghin Gianluca , De Cobelli Francesco , Esposito Antonio , Maranta Francesco , Calori Giliola , Locatelli Massimo , Lattuada Guido , Scifo Paola , Del Maschio Alessandro , Margonato Alberto
Published: February 2012

Beta‐blockers have been shown to improve left ventricular (LV) function in patients with heart failure. The aim of this study is to non‐invasively assess, by means of in vivo 31P‐magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P‐MRS), the effects of beta‐blockers on LV cardiac phosphocreatine and adenosine triphosphate (PCr/ATP) ratio in patients with heart failure. Ten heart failure patients on full medical therapy were beta‐blocked by either carvedilol or bisoprolol. Before and after 3 months of treatment, exercise testing, 2D echocardiography, MRS, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, ejection fraction (EF), maximal rate–pressure product and exercise metabolic equivalent system (METS) were evaluated. Relative concentrations of PCr and ATP were determined by cardiac 31P‐MRS. After beta‐blockade, NYHA class decreased (from 2.2 ± 0.54 to 1.9 ± 0.52, P = 0.05), whereas EF (from 33 ± 7 to 44 ± 6%, P = 0.0009) and METS (from 6.74 ± 2.12 to 8.03 ± 2.39, P = 0.01) increased. Accordingly, the mean cardiac PCr/ATP ratio increased by 33% (from 1.48 ± 0.22 to 1.81 ± 0.48, P = 0.03). Beta‐blockade‐induced symptomatic and functional improvement in patients with heart failure is associated to increased PCr/ATP ratio, indicating preservation of myocardial high‐energy phosphate levels.
Short‐ and long‐term costs of reproduction in a migratory songbird
Authors: MITCHELL GREG W. , WHEELWRIGHT NATHANIEL T. , GUGLIELMO CHRISTOPHER G. , NORRIS D. RYAN
Published: February 2012

Costs of reproduction represent a common life‐history trade‐off. Critical to understanding these costs in migratory species is the ability to track individuals across successive stages of the annual cycle. We assessed the effects of total number of offspring fledged and date of breeding completion on pre‐migratory body condition, the schedule of moult and annual survival in a migratory songbird, the Savannah Sparrow Passerculus sandwichensis. Between 2008 and 2010, moult was delayed for individuals that finished breeding later in the breeding period and resulted in reduced lean tissue mass during the pre‐migratory period, suggesting an indirect trade‐off between the timing of breeding completion and condition just prior to migration. Lean tissue mass decreased as the number of offspring fledged increased in 2009, a particularly cool and wet year, illustrating a direct trade‐off between reproductive effort and condition just prior to migration in years when weather is poor. However, using a 17‐year dataset from the same population, we found that parents that fledged young late in the breeding period had the highest survival and that number of offspring fledged did not affect survival, suggesting that individuals do not experience long‐term trade‐offs between reproduction and survival. Taken together, our results suggest that adult Savannah Sparrows pay short‐term costs of reproduction, but that longer‐term costs are mitigated by individual quality, perhaps through individual variation in resource acquisition.
The pyruvate dehydrogenase complex as a therapeutic target for age‐related diseases
Authors: Stacpoole Peter W.
Published: February 2012

Considerable research has been conducted on mitochondrial biology as it pertains to aging. However, relatively little attention has been accorded the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC) relative to how we grow old and acquire age‐related diseases. The purpose of this review is threefold: first, to describe the physiological chemistry of the PDC and define its place in normal cellular bioenergetics; second, to compare and contrast the pathogenesis and clinical features of congenital PDC deficiency with discrete examples of age‐associated dysfunction of the complex; and third, to summarize recent findings in Caenorhabditis elegans that shed additional new light on the significance of the PDC to the aging process.
Inhibition of airway hyper‐responsiveness by TRPV1 antagonists (SB‐705498 and PF‐04065463) in the unanaesthetized, ovalbumin‐sensitized guinea pig
Authors: Delescluse I , Mace H , Adcock JJ
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Airway sensory nerves play a key role in respiratory cough, dyspnoea, airway hyper‐responsiveness (AHR), all fundamental features of airway diseases [asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) ]. Vagally mediated airway reflexes such as cough, bronchoconstriction and chest tightness originate from stimulation of airway sensory nerve endings. The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 receptor (TRPV1) is present on peripheral terminals of airway sensory nerves and modulation of its activity represents a potential target for the pharmacological therapy of AHR in airway disease.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH As guinea pig models can provide some of the essential features of asthma, including AHR, we have established the model with some classical pharmacological agents and examined the effect of the TRPV1 antagonists, SB‐705498 and PF‐04065463 on AHR to histamine evoked by ovalbumin (OA) in unanaesthetized sensitized guinea pigs restrained in a double chamber plethysmograph. Specific airway conductance (sGaw) derived from the airflow was calculated as a percentage of change from baseline.

KEY RESULTS Cetirizine and salbutamol significantly inhibited OA‐evoked bronchoconstriction [sGaw area under the curve (AUC): 70 and 78%, respectively]. Atropine, SB‐705498 and PF‐04065463 significantly inhibited OA‐evoked AHR to histamine in unanaesthetized, OA‐sensitized guinea pigs (sGaw AUC: 94%, 57% and 73%, respectively). Furthermore, this effect was not related to antagonism of histamine's activity.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS These data suggest that TRPV1 receptors located on airway sensory nerves are important in the development of AHR and that modulation of TRPV1‐receptor activity represents a potential target for the pharmacological therapy of AHR in airway disease.
Effects of temperature on the development and survival of an endangered butterfly, Lycaeides argyrognomon (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) with estimation of optimal and threshold temperatures using linear and nonlinear models
Authors: KODA Keiko , NAKAMURA Hiroshi
Published: February 2012

The effects of temperature on the development and survival of Lycaeides argyrognomon were examined in the laboratory. The eggs, larvae and pupae were reared at temperatures of 15, 17.5, 20, 25, 30 and 33°C under a long‐day photoperiod of 16‐h light and 8‐h darkness. The survival rates of the first–third instars ranged from 40.0 to 82.4%. The mortalities of the fourth instar were lower than those of the first–third instars. The development time of the overall immature stage decreased from 78.33 days at 15°C to 21.07 days at 30°C, and then increased to 24.33 days at 33°C. The common linear model and the Ikemoto–Takai model were used to estimate the thermal constant (K) and the developmental zero (T0). The values of T0 and K for the overall immature stages were 10.50°C and 418.83 degree‐days, and 9.71°C and 451.68 degree‐days by the common model and the Ikemoto–Takai model, respectively. The upper temperature thresholds (Tmax) and the optimal temperatures (Topt) of the egg, the first–third instars and the overall immature stages were estimated by the three nonlinear models. The ranges of Topt estimated were from 30.33°C to 32.46°C in the overall immature stages and the estimates of Tmax of the overall immature stages by the Briere‐1 and the Briere‐2 models were 37.18°C and 33.00°C, respectively. The method to predict the developmental period of L. argyrognomon using the nonlinear models was discussed based on the data of the average temperature per hour.
Complications of Apheresis
Authors: Kaplan Andre
Published: February 2012

In general, therapeutic apheresis is a relatively safe procedure with the most commonly seen complications caused by citrate‐induced hypocalcemia and urticarial reactions to the protein‐containing replacement fluid. Depletion coagulopathy and immunoglobulin depletion must be anticipated when albumin is used as the replacement fluid and becomes more profound as the number of treatment increases. The most serious complications are seen when there is an anaphylactoid reaction to the multiple units of fresh frozen plasma required when used as the replacement fluid. The overall incidence of death is 0.05%, but many of these deaths were in patients with severe preexisting conditions in which the apheresis procedure, itself, may not have been the precipitating cause. As with all extracorporeal treatments requiring large bore vascular access, catheter‐related trauma, clotting, infection, and bleeding may also occur.
Medications in Patients Treated With Therapeutic Plasma Exchange: Prescription Dosage, Timing, and Drug Overdose
Authors: Ibrahim Rami B. , Balogun Rasheed A.
Published: February 2012

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is an extracorporeal process commonly used in clinical medicine for the treatment of a variety of neurological, renal, hematological, dermatological, and other diseases. Inherent to the procedure, patients’ plasma removal may lead to the extraction of drugs they are concurrently receiving. This review discusses the published literature assessing TPE’s influence on different drug classes’ disposition and, when applicable, sets forth management recommendations in cases where the drugs are used at the usual doses and in cases of drug overdose.
The Renaissance Kidney—Nephrology in and about the Sixteenth Century
Authors: Eknoyan Garabed
Published: February 2012

The endeavor to understand the workings of the human body is as old as civilization; but it is in the intellectual movement of the Renaissance that its actual scientific study began in earnest and has not ceased growing since then. It was in the 16th century that the study of organs was launched and with it that of the kidney, which was then conceived as an accessory organ to clear the excess water ingested with food. The study of the structural basis of kidney function was launched by Bartolomeo Eustachio (1514–1574); the elements of its physiology and pathology were promulgated by Jean Fernel (1497–1558), and that of the chemical study of urine and of the principal cause of kidney disease then, calculi, instigated by Joan Baptista Van Helmont (1577–1644). The methodological approaches of these and their contemporary investigators, which were crystallized and formulated by Francis Bacon (1561–1626), opened the gates of the Scientific Revolution that followed in the 17th century, beginning with that of describing the circulation in 1628 by William Harvey (1564–1657) that would finally free the kidney from the shackles imposed on it as a mere accessory organ to the liver in Galen’s physiology.
TRANSFORMATION AND ALLELOPATHY OF NATURAL DISSOLVED ORGANIC CARBON AND TANNIC ACID ARE AFFECTED BY SOLAR RADIATION AND BACTERIA1
Authors: Bauer Nadine , Zwirnmann Elke , Grossart Hans‐Peter , Hilt Sabine
Published: February 2012

The aim of this study was to test whether abiotic and biotic factors may affect allelopathic properties. Therefore, we investigated how solar radiation and bacteria influence allelopathic effects of the plant‐derived, polyphenolic tannic acid (TA) on microalgae. Using a block design, lake water samples with and without TA were exposed to solar radiation or kept in darkness with or without bacteria for 3 weeks. Dissolved organic carbon (DOC), specific size fractions of DOC analyzed by chromatography–organic carbon detection (LC‐OCD), and concentrations of total phenolic compounds (TPC) were measured to follow the fate of TA in lake water with natural DOC exposed to photolytic and microbial degradation. DOC and TPC decreased in dark‐incubated lake water with TA and bacteria indicating microbial degradation. In contrast, exposure to solar radiation of lake water with TA and bacteria did not decrease DOC. Chromatographic analyses documented an accumulation of DOC mean size fraction designated as humic substances (HS) in sunlit water samples with TA. The recalcitrance of the humic fraction indicates that photolytic degradation may contribute to a DOC less available for bacterial degradation. Subsequent growth tests with Desmodesmus armatus (Chodat) E. Hegewald showed low but reproducible difference in algal growth with lower algal growth rate cultured in photolytically and microbially degraded TA in lake water than cultured in respective dark treatments. This finding highlights the importance of photolytic processes and microbial degradation influencing allelopathic effects and may explain the high potential of allelochemicals for structuring the phytoplankton community composition in naturally illuminated surface waters.
REPORT OF A BLOOM‐FORMING DINOFLAGELLATE TAKAYAMAACROTROCHA FROM TROPICAL COASTAL WATERS OF SINGAPORE1
Authors: Tang Ying Zhong , Kong Lesheng , Morse Ryan E. , Gobler Christopher J. , Holmes Michael James
Published: February 2012

Four clonal cultures of the unarmored dinoflagellate Takayama acrotrocha (J. Larsen) de Salas, Bolch et Hallegraeff were established from Singapore coastal water on October 20, 2004, and January 1, 2007, for a HAB monitoring project. LM and SEM observations demonstrated that the isolates were not consistent with the other five species within this genus in position of nucleus, shape of the apical groove, and number and shape of chloroplasts. New morphological observations of the Singapore isolates that were not in the type description of T. acrotrocha include a narrow and shallow slit located above the entire anterior edge of the cingulum, a tube‐like structure in the sulcus, numerous multilateral plate‐like surface vesicles, a sulcal intrusion into the epicone, and possibly a peduncle in between the two emerging points of flagella. The presence of sulcal intrusion into the epicone was not consistent with the type description but is prominent in SEM micrographs. Phylogenetic analysis of the partial LSU rDNA sequences indicated Singapore strains of T. acrotrocha are conspecific with two isolates from Italy, but less homologous to T. helix, T. tasmanica, and T. tuberculata. Laboratory fish bioassays using Asian sea bass (Lates calcarifer) and sheepshead minnows (Cyprinodon variegates) did not indicate fish‐killing activity by this species, and to our knowledge, there were no reports of fish‐kills occurring during blooms of this species in Singapore and Italy. This is the first report of T. acrotrocha from tropical waters and indicates a likely cosmopolitan distribution of the species.
Effects of Myocardial Postconditioning on the Recruitment of Endothelial Progenitor Cells
Authors: JUNG CHRISTIAN , SÖRENSSON PEDER , SALEH NAWSAD , ARHEDEN HÅKAN , RYDÉN LARS , PERNOW JOHN
Published: February 2012

Background:

Ischemic postconditioning (PostC), brief repetitive cycles of ischemia and reperfusion during early reperfusion, is suggested to protect the myocardium in patients with stent thrombosis‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) by improved endothelial dysfunction and alteration of cytokine release. These mechanisms are also of importance for the recruitment of endothelial progenitor cells (EPC), an endogenous repair mechanism for re‐endothelialization and neoangiogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of PostC on recruitment of EPC.

Methods:

EPC were analyzed in 20 patients with STEMI randomized to receive four cycles of PostC following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or conventional PCI. Different subpopulations of EPC were quantified immediately and on day 4 using flow cytometry. Myocardium at risk, and infarct size was determined by cardiovascular magnetic resonance.

Results:

There was no influence of PostC on the number of different EPC (CD34+, CD133+, CD34+CD133+, CD34+KDR+, CD34−CD133+KDR+, CD34+CD133+KDR+). Left ventricular ejection fraction, myocardium at risk, and infarct size did not correlate to the mobilization of EPC. There was an inverse correlation between the symptom‐to‐balloon time and the mobilization of progenitor precursor cells (CD34+ cells: R =−0.527, P = 0.02; CD133+ cells: R =−0.624, P = 0.004; CD34+CD133+ cells: R =−0.466, P = 0.04).

Discussion:

Ischemic PostC did not result in improved mobilization of EPC in STEMI patients. The recruitment of progenitor cells seems to be related to the duration of ischemia rather than the size of the ischemic myocardial area. More effort is needed to understand the changes of endothelial surface markers by PostC and their role in EPC recruitment and homing. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:103–110)
A Joint Mixed Effects Dispersion Model for Menstrual Cycle Length and Time‐to‐Pregnancy
Authors: McLain Alexander C. , Lum Kirsten J. , Sundaram Rajeshwari
Published: February 2012

Summary Menstrual cycle patterns are often used as indicators of female fecundity and are associated with hormonally dependent diseases such as breast cancer. A question of considerable interest is in identifying menstrual cycle patterns, and their association with fecundity. A source of data for addressing this question is prospective pregnancy studies that collect detailed information on reproductive aged women. However, methodological challenges exist in ascertaining the association between these two processes as the number of longitudinally measured menstrual cycles is relatively small and informatively censored by time to pregnancy (TTP), as well as the cycle length distribution being highly skewed. We propose a joint modeling approach with a mixed effects dispersion model for the menstrual cycle lengths and a discrete survival model for TTP to address this question. This allows us to assess the effect of important characteristics of menstrual cycle that are associated with fecundity. We are also able to assess the effect of fecundity predictors such as age at menarche, age, and parity on both these processes. An advantage of the proposed approach is the prediction of the TTP, thus allowing us to study the efficacy of menstrual cycle characteristics in predicting fecundity. We analyze two prospective pregnancy studies to illustrate our proposed method by building a model based on the Oxford Conception Study, and predicting for the New York State Angler Cohort Prospective Pregnancy Study. Our analysis has relevant findings for assessing fecundity.
A National Model for Developing, Implementing, and Evaluating Evidence‐based Guidelines for Prehospital Care
Authors: Lang Eddy S. , Spaite Daniel W. , Oliver Zoe J. , Gotschall Catherine S. , Swor Robert A. , Dawson Drew E. , Hunt Richard C.
Published: February 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:201–209 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

In 2007, the Institute of Medicine’s (IOM’s) Committee on the Future of Emergency Care recommended that a multidisciplinary panel establish a model for developing evidence‐based protocols for the treatment of emergency medical systems (EMS) patients. In response, the National EMS Advisory Council (NEMSAC) and the Federal Interagency Committee on EMS (FICEMS) convened a panel of multidisciplinary experts to review current strategies for developing evidence‐based guidelines (EBGs) and to propose a model for developing such guidelines for the prehospital milieu. This paper describes the eight‐step model endorsed by FICEMS, NEMSAC, and a panel of EMS and evidence‐based medicine experts.

According to the model, prehospital EBG development would begin with the input of evidence from various external sources. Potential EBG topics would be suggested following a preliminary evidentiary review; those topics with sufficient extant foundational evidence would be selected for development. Next, the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology would be used to determine a quality‐of‐evidence rating and a strength of recommendation related to the patient care guidelines. More specific, contextualized patient care protocols would then be generated and disseminated to the EMS community. After educating EMS professionals using targeted teaching materials, the protocols would be implemented in local EMS systems. Finally, effectiveness and uptake would be measured with integrated quality improvement and outcomes monitoring systems.

The constituencies and experts involved in the model development process concluded that the use of such transparent, objective, and scientifically rigorous guidelines could significantly increase the quality of EMS care in the future.
Lack of Sex Disparity in Cardiovascular Testing After Coronary Computerized Tomographic Angiography
Authors: Ginty Catherine T. , Chang Anna Marie , Matsuura Asako C. , Decker Christopher , Le Jeffrey , Green Michael , Litt Harold I. , Hollander Judd E.
Published: February 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:147–152 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  The authors assessed whether there was a sex disparity in testing of patients after coronary computerized tomographic angiography (CTA) was performed for emergency department (ED) patients with potential acute coronary syndromes (ACS). In theory, once coronary anatomy has been determined, any disparity in subsequent workup should not be the result of differences in presentation.

Methods:  This was a prospective cohort study of ED patients who presented with potential ACS and received coronary CTAs at a university hospital. Demographics, history, cardiac risk factors, follow‐up testing, and procedures were recorded. Follow‐up at 30 days was obtained by structured record review and telephone contact. Patients were stratified by sex and coronary CTA results (max stenosis: none, 1% to 24%, 25% to 49%, 50% to 69%, and ≥70%). Main outcome was the relative risk (RR) of a male receiving a stress test or catheterization within 30 days, stratified by categories of percent maximal stenosis.

Results:  A total of 1,144 patients received coronary CTAs (mean ± SD age = 47.8 ± 8.7 years), 55% were female, and 64% were black or African American. Overall, 161 patients received follow‐up testing within 30 days, 113 during their index visit. Men were more likely to receive further testing (RR = 1.51; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.14 to 1.99) compared to women. However, when stratified by percentage of stenosis, men were not more likely to receive further testing within 30 days after coronary CTA compared to women (RR = 1.14; 95% CI = 0.68 to 1.91). In multivariable modeling for risk of further testing, stenosis remained significant (adjusted relative risk [aRR] = 1.51; 95% CI = 1.19 to 1.91), while male sex, age, race, and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk score were not.

Conclusions:  Male patients with potential ACS who receive a coronary CTA as a part of their ED evaluation were no more likely than female patients to receive further testing within 30 days.
Clinical and genetic outcome determinants of Internet‐ and group‐based cognitive behavior therapy for social anxiety disorder
Authors: Hedman E. , Andersson E. , Ljótsson B. , Andersson G. , Andersson E. , Schalling M. , Lindefors N. , Rück C.
Published: February 2012

Hedman E, Andersson E, Ljótsson B, Andersson G, Andersson E, Schalling M, Lindefors N, Rück C. Clinical and genetic outcome determinants of Internet‐ and group‐based cognitive behavior therapy for social anxiety disorder (SAD).

Objective: No study has investigated clinical or genetic predictors and moderators of Internet‐based cognitive behavior therapy (ICBT) compared with cognitive behavioral group therapy for (CBGT) for SAD. Identification of predictors and moderators is essential to the clinician in deciding which treatment to recommend for whom. We aimed to identify clinical and genetic (5‐HTTLPR, COMTval158met, and BDNFval66met) predictors and moderators of ICBT and CBGT.

Method: We performed three types of analyses on data from a sample comprising participants (N = 126) who had undergone ICBT or CBGT in a randomized controlled trial. Outcomes were i) end state symptom severity, ii) SAD diagnosis, and iii) clinically significant improvement.

Results: The most stable predictors of better treatment response were working full time, having children, less depressive symptoms, higher expectancy of treatment effectiveness, and adhering to treatment. None of the tested gene polymorphisms were associated with treatment outcome. Comorbid general anxiety and depression were moderators meaning that lower levels were associated with a better treatment response in ICBT but not in CBGT.

Conclusion: We conclude that demographic factors, symptom burden, adherence, and expectations may play an important role as predictors of treatment outcome. The investigated gene polymorphisms do not appear to make a difference.
Short implants (6 mm) installed immediately into extraction sockets: An experimental study in dogs
Authors: Bressan Eriberto , Sivolella Stefano , Urrutia Zoraya Almagro , Salata Luiz Antonio , Lang Niklaus Peter , Botticelli Daniele
Published: February 2012

Aim

To evaluate the effect of implant length (6 mm vs.11 mm) on osseointegration (bone‐to‐implant contact) of implants installed into sockets immediately after tooth extraction.

Material and methods

In six Labrador dogs, the pulp tissue of the mesial roots of 3P3 was removed and the root canals were filled. Flaps were elevated bilaterally, the premolars hemi‐sectioned and the distal roots removed. Recipient sites were prepared in the distal alveolus and a 6 mm or an 11 mm long implant was installed at the test and control sites, respectively. Non‐submerged healing was allowed. After 4 months of healing, block sections of the implant sites were obtained for histological processing and peri‐implant tissue assessment.

Results

No statistically significant differences were found between test and control sites both for hard and soft tissue parameters. The bone‐to‐implant contact evaluated at the apical region of the implants was similar as well. Although not statistically significant, the location of the top of the bony crest at the buccal aspect was more apical in relation to the implant shoulder at the test compared with the control sites (2.0 ± 1.4 and 1.2 ± 1.1 mm, respectively).

Conclusions

Shorter implants (6 mm) present with equal osseointegration than do longer implants (11 mm).
Sodium metabisulfite as a contact allergen – an example of a rare chemical mechanism for protein modification
Authors: Roberts David W. , Basketter David , Kimber Ian , White Jonathan , McFadden John , White Ian R.
Published: February 2012

Background. Skin‐sensitizing chemicals that cause allergic contact dermatitis do so by reacting with self‐proteins such that the modified structure becomes antigenic. The reaction chemistry involved is well characterized, but there are exceptions, such as the occasional allergen sodium metabisulfite.

Objectives. To identify the potential in cutaneo reaction chemistry of sodium metabisulfite.

Methods. The established protein reaction chemistry associated with aqueous sulfite chemistry was explored in the context of the protein modification stage in allergic contact dermatitis.

Results. A probable mechanism for the in cutaneo modification of proteins by sodium metabisulfite involves the sulfite di‐anion, acting as a nucleophile towards electrophilic centres in proteins, which is a rare mechanism, as most known skin‐sensitizing chemicals behave as electrophiles.

Conclusions. Sodium metabisulfite is an unusual but not infrequent contact allergen whose chemistry suggests a previously unrecognized protein modification mechanism involving nucleophilic attack by sulfite di‐anions on target electrophilic centres in skin proteins. The chemical properties required for sensitization by nucleophilic attack on skin proteins are quite restrictive, so the domain of nucleophilic sensitizers is expected to be small. Thiourea derivatives are among the sensitizers likely to act by this mechanism.
A pilot study aimed at finding a suitable eugenol concentration for a leave‐on product for use in a repeated open application test
Authors: Svedman Cecilia , Engfeldt Malin , Api Anne Marie , Politano Valerie T. , Belsito Donald V. , Isaksson Marlene , Bruze Magnus
Published: February 2012

Background. Knowledge of sensitization and elicitation thresholds and the time‐dose relationship for elicitation of contact dermatitis is important in order to provide safe products for consumers.

Objective. Since previous studies performed with eugenol had showed negative results in a repeat open application study (ROAT) study, we wanted to perform a ROAT with higher concentration (maximum allowed) and longer ROAT.

Materials. 5 volunteers previously tested positive to eugenol were studied. They performed a ROAT test for maximum 4 weeks with four different solutions.

Results. Four of five reacted to the maximum concentration of eugenol in the ROAT.

Conclusion. In patients sensitized to eugenol, with the maximum allowed concentration of eugenol and given a prolonged ROAT (4 weeks), there is a clear risk of elicitating an allergic contact dermatitis.
Practical skills training influences knowledge and attitude of dental students towards emergency medical care
Authors: Sopka S. , Biermann H. , Druener S. , Skorning M. , Knops A. , Fitzner C. , Rossaint R. , Beckers S.
Published: February 2012

Background:  Medical emergencies in dental practice are generally perceived as being rare. Nonetheless, recent studies have shown that incidents occur on a regular basis. Therefore, patients have the right to expect necessary skills to manage life‐threatening situations from every dentist.

Objective:  To observe students’ attitude and self‐assessment towards emergency medical care (EMC) and its practical appliance.

Material and methods:  Students of dentistry took part in small group sessions for adult and paediatric basic life support. Participants filled out pre–post questionnaires regarding knowledge and attitude towards EMC (6, respectively, 10‐point Likert scale). Additionally, feedback was asked for the quality of course and tutors.

Results:  Forty dental students in their last 2 years of study registered for the EMC courses. The majority had never attended any first‐aid course; the mean age was 25% and 75% were women. A comparison between pre‐ and post‐evaluation showed that the participation in practical training easily enhances the students’ awareness of EMC importance as well as self‐confidence in managing emergencies. After the course, 71% shared the opinion that retraining should be obligatory for all medical personnel. At the same time, students’ self‐assessment of confidence for specific tasks got significant upgrades in every aspect.

Conclusion:  The evaluation data clearly show the participants’ needs to deal with topics of EMC within the curriculum of dentistry. The proposed course is able to change participants’ attitudes towards EMC and its importance for their daily practice. The considerable enhancement of self‐confidence in performing EMC‐techniques might also lead to more willingness to manage emergency situations.
Sexual Function and Distress in Women Treated for Primary Headaches in a Tertiary University Center
Authors: Nappi Rossella E. , Terreno Erica , Tassorelli Cristina , Sances Grazia , Allena Marta , Guaschino Elena , Antonaci Fabio , Albani Francesca , Polatti Franco
Published: February 2012

Introduction

Primary headaches are common in women and impact on their quality of life and psychosocial functioning. Few data are available on sexuality in female headache sufferers.

Aim

An observational pilot study was conducted to assess sexual function and distress in women treated for primary headaches in a tertiary university center.

Methods

From a total of 194 women consecutively observed over a 3-month period, 100 patients were recruited. Migraine with and without aura, and tension-type headache, both episodic and chronic (CTTH), were diagnosed according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders. A detailed pharmacological history was collected, and anxiety and depression were assessed using validated scales. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised were administered.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures are sexual symptoms and distress in women treated for primary headaches.

Results

More than 90% of the women had a median FSFI full-scale score under the validated cutoff, while 29% reported sexual distress. Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) was diagnosed in 20% of the women and the pain domain score (median 2, score range 0–6) was highly affected by the head pain condition. However, the FSFI domain and full-scale scores did not significantly differ by headache diagnosis. The women with CTTH displayed a high rate of sexual distress (45.5%) and a strong negative correlation between desire, arousal, and full-scale FSFI score and number analgesics/month (r: −0.77, P = 0.006; r: −0.76, P = 0.006; and r: −0.68, P = 0.02, respectively). Depression was positively correlated with sexual distress (r: 0.63, P = 0.001) only in the women with CTTH.

Conclusion

Women treated for primary headaches were found to display a high rate of sexual symptoms and distress. Both migraine and tension-type headache were associated with sexual pain and HSDD, but women with CTTH seem to be more prone to develop sexual distress.
Shear and Bending Strength of SiC/SiC Joined by a Modified Commercial Adhesive
Authors: Salvo Milena , Rizzo Stefano , Casalegno Valentina , Handrick Karin , Ferraris Monica
Published: February 2012

The aim of this work was to develop a new joining/repairing material suitable to be easily applied at temperature not exceeding 300°C, in air atmosphere, on large surfaces of SiCf/SiC composites for aerospace applications. The joining/repairing material proposed here is based on a Carbon Fiber‐reinforced commercial Adhesive (CFA) where silicon carbide particles were added. Mechanical strength of the joined SiC/SiC was tested before and after heat treatment at the maximum working temperature for these SiC/SiC. Flexural strengths higher than 200 MPa and 90 MPa, before and after heat treatment, respectively, were obtained by coupling mechanical and adhesive bonding techniques.
Effect of ZrO2, TiO2, and Al2O3 Additions on Process and Kinetics of Bonelike Apatite Formation on Sintered Natural Hydroxyapatite Surfaces
Authors: Mezahi Fatima Zohra , Oudadesse Hassane , Harabi Abdelhamid , Le Gal Yann
Published: February 2012

In this study, the ability to form bone‐like apatite on surface of both pure natural hydroxapatite (N‐HA) and natural hydroxyapatite containing 5 wt% of ZrO2 or TiO2 or Al2O3, sintered at 1300°C for 2 h and soaked in the simulated body fluid for different times, was studied. It has been found that the presence of β‐tricalcium phosphate in N‐HA + 5 wt% ZrO2 or TiO2 has promoted the precipitation of bone‐like apatite in the Zr or Ti poorest regions. By contrast, the presence of 5 wt% of Al2O3 did not induce any apatite precipitation on N‐HA sample surfaces.
Promoting the Purchase of Low‐Calorie Foods From School Vending Machines: A Cluster‐Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Kocken Paul L. , Eeuwijk Jennifer , Van Kesteren Nicole M.C. , Dusseldorp Elise , Buijs Goof , Bassa‐Dafesh Zeina , Snel Jeltje
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: Vending machines account for food sales and revenue in schools. We examined 3 strategies for promoting the sale of lower‐calorie food products from vending machines in high schools in the Netherlands.

METHODS: A school‐based randomized controlled trial was conducted in 13 experimental schools and 15 control schools. Three strategies were tested within each experimental school: increasing the availability of lower‐calorie products in vending machines, labeling products, and reducing the price of lower‐calorie products. The experimental schools introduced the strategies in 3 consecutive phases, with phase 3 incorporating all 3 strategies. The control schools remained the same. The sales volumes from the vending machines were registered. Products were grouped into (1) extra foods containing empty calories, for example, candies and potato chips, (2) nutrient‐rich basic foods, and (3) beverages. They were also divided into favorable, moderately unfavorable, and unfavorable products.

RESULTS: Total sales volumes for experimental and control schools did not differ significantly for the extra and beverage products. Proportionally, the higher availability of lower‐calorie extra products in the experimental schools led to higher sales of moderately unfavorable extra products than in the control schools, and to higher sales of favorable extra products in experimental schools where students have to stay during breaks. Together, availability, labeling, and price reduction raised the proportional sales of favorable beverages.

CONCLUSION: Results indicate that when the availability of lower‐calorie foods is increased and is also combined with labeling and reduced prices, students make healthier choices without buying more or fewer products from school vending machines. Changes to school vending machines help to create a healthy school environment.
The Effect of School Dismissal on Rates of Influenza‐Like Illness in New York City Schools During the Spring 2009 Novel H1N1 Outbreak
Authors: Egger Joseph R. , Konty Kevin J. , Wilson Elisha , Karpati Adam , Matte Thomas , Weiss Don , Barbot Oxiris
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: The effects of individual school dismissal on influenza transmission have not been well studied. During the spring 2009 novel H1N1 outbreak, New York City implemented an individual school dismissal policy intended to limit influenza transmission at schools with high rates of influenza‐like illness (ILI).

METHODS: Active disease surveillance data collected by the New York City Health Department on rates of ILI in schools were used to evaluate the impact. Sixty‐four schools that met the Health Department's criteria for considering dismissal were included in the analysis. Twenty‐four schools that met criteria subsequently dismissed all classes for approximately 1 school week. A regression model was fit to these data, estimating the effect of school dismissal on rates of in‐school ILI following reconvening, adjusting for potential confounders.

RESULTS: The model estimated that, on average, school dismissal reduced the rate of ILI by 7.1% over the entire average outbreak period. However, a large proportion of in‐school ILI occurred before dismissal criteria were met. A separate model estimated that school absenteeism rates were not significantly affected by dismissal.

CONCLUSION: Results suggest that individual school dismissal could be considered in situations where schools have a disproportionate number of high‐risk students or may be unable to implement recommended preventive or infection control measures. Future work should focus on developing more sensitive indicators of early outbreak detection in schools and evaluating the impact of school dismissal on community transmission.
Comparison of Indoor Air Quality Management Strategies Between the School and District Levels in New York State
Authors: Lin Shao , Kielb Christine L. , Reddy Amanda L. , Chapman Bonnie R. , Hwang Syni‐An
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: Good school indoor air quality (IAQ) can affect the health and functioning of school occupants. Thus, it is important to assess the degree to which schools and districts employ strategies to ensure good IAQ management. We examined and compared the patterns of IAQ management strategies between public elementary schools and their school districts in New York State.

METHODS: District‐level information obtained from surveys of district facilities managers in 326 districts was described and stratified by district size and socioeconomic status. School‐level information obtained from surveys of head custodians in 770 elementary schools was then compared with the district‐level information in 241 districts.

RESULTS: About 47% of participating school districts reported having a district‐wide IAQ program, with a large range in the prevalence of specific IAQ management strategies. Airing out newly painted areas was the most commonly reported (92%) and having a classroom animal policy was the least commonly reported (29%). Larger districts and districts with a district‐wide IAQ program were more likely to report certain IAQ strategies than other districts. Elementary schools and their districts were most likely to report airing out newly painted areas (76%). The most common area of disagreement was construction after hours (50%). The top strategy not reported at either level was having an IAQ coordinator (53%).

CONCLUSIONS: Many school districts lack key IAQ management strategies, and differences exist between district‐level policy and school‐level practice. Districts and schools should work together to formalize and expand existing IAQ policies and inform stakeholders about these strategies.
Cationic Lipids Containing Cyclen and Ammonium Moieties as Gene Delivery Vectors
Authors: Huang Qing‐Dong , Ren Jiang , Ou Wen‐Jing , Fu Yun , Cai Mao‐Qiang , Zhang Ji , Zhu Wen , Yu Xiao‐Qi
Published: February 2012

In this study, two novel cationic lipids containing protonated cyclen and quaternary ammonium moieties were designed and synthesized as non‐viral gene delivery vectors. The structures of the two lipids differ in their hydrophobic region (cholesterol or diosgenin). Cationic liposomes were easily prepared from the lipids individually or from the mixtures of each cationic lipid and dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine. Several studies including DLS, gel retardation assay, and ethidium bromide intercalation assay suggest that these amphiphilic molecules are able to bind and compact DNA into nanometer particles which can be used as non‐viral gene delivery agents. Our results from in vitro transfection show that in association with dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine, two cationic lipids can induce effective gene transfection in human embryonic kidney 293 cells, although the gene transfection efficiencies of two cationic lipids were found to be lower than that of lipofectamine 2000TM. Besides, different cytotoxicity was found for two lipoplexes. This study demonstrates that the title cationic lipids have large potential to be efficient non‐viral gene vectors.
An evidence‐based review of peritonsillar abscess
Authors: Powell J. , Wilson J.A.
Published: February 2012

Clin. Otolaryngol. 2012, 37, 136–145

Objective of review:  We present the current literature surrounding peritonsillar abscess management highlighting areas of controversy.

Type of review and search strategy:  Literature review using Medline and Embase databases (search terms ‘peritonsillar abscess’, ‘peritonsillar infection’ and ‘quinsy’) limited to articles published from 1991 to 2011 (English language).

Results:  (i) Investigations: Intraoral ultrasound has a sensitivity and specificity of between 89–95% and 79–100%, respectively, for correctly diagnosing peritonsillar abscess and is underutilised currently. (ii) Medical management: Steroids can effectively aid recovery, reducing hospitalisation time and improving symptom relief; however, further study is needed, especially related to risk and cost benefit. Penicillin and metronidazole are an effective combination in 98–99% of cases of peritonsillar abscess. (iii) Surgical management: Overall, there is no convincing evidence in favour of either aspiration or incision & drainage. Quinsy tonsillectomy is subject to great geographical variation, however, is a safe procedure and reduces overall recovery time when compared with interval tonsillectomy. (iv) Admission: peritonsillar abscess can be effectively managed as an outpatient in many cases. (v) Further management: Overall, the recurrence rate of peritonsillar abscess is poorly defined but estimated as 9–22% based on current evidence. Interval tonsillectomy may be indicated in selected groups of patients at high risk of recurrence.

Conclusions:  Peritonsillar abscess is a common condition with increasing incidence. We demonstrate the potential for evidence‐based modifications in clinical management. However, lack of national consensus may mean that this evidence base is not being adequately exploited in current practice. A national audit of peritonsillar abscess management, in particular looking at recurrence rates and patient experience with different management strategies, appears indicated.
Hypothalamic inflammation: a double‐edged sword to nutritional diseases
Authors: Cai Dongsheng , Liu Tiewen
Published: February 2012

The hypothalamus is one of the master regulators of various physiological processes, including energy balance and nutrient metabolism. These regulatory functions are mediated by discrete hypothalamic regions that integrate metabolic sensing with neuroendocrine and neural controls of systemic physiology. Neurons and nonneuronal cells in these hypothalamic regions act supportively to execute metabolic regulations. Under conditions of brain and hypothalamic inflammation, which may result from overnutrition‐induced intracellular stresses or disease‐associated systemic inflammatory factors, extracellular and intracellular environments of hypothalamic cells are disrupted, leading to central metabolic dysregulations and various diseases. Recent research has begun to elucidate the effects of hypothalamic inflammation in causing diverse components of metabolic syndrome leading to diabetes and cardiovascular disease. These new understandings have provocatively expanded previous knowledge on the cachectic roles of brain inflammatory response in diseases, such as infections and cancers. This review describes the molecular and cellular characteristics of hypothalamic inflammation in metabolic syndrome and related diseases as opposed to cachectic diseases, and also discusses concepts and potential applications of inhibiting central/hypothalamic inflammation to treat nutritional diseases.