bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between umbilical cord artery pCO2 and the Apgar score; elevated levels of pCO2 may be beneficial for neonatal vitality after moderate acidemia
Authors: Kro Grete A.B. , Yli Branka M. , Rasmussen Svein , Norèn Håkan , Amer‐Wåhlin Isis , Rosén Karl G. , Stray‐Pedersen Babill , Saugstad Ola D.
Published: March 2013

Objective

To determine the association between 5‐min Apgar score and umbilical cord artery carbon dioxide tension (pCO2).

Design

Observational study.

Setting

European hospital labor wards.

Population

Data from 36 432 newborns ≥36 gestational weeks were obtained from three sources: two trials of monitoring with fetal electrocardiogram (the Swedish randomized controlled trial and the European Union Fetal ECG trial) and Mölndal Hospital data. After validation of the acid–base values, 25 806 5‐min Apgar scores were available for analysis.

Methods

Validation of the umbilical cord acid–base values was performed to obtain reliable data. 5‐min Apgar score was regressed against cord artery pCO2 in a polynomial multilevel model.

Main outcome measures

Five‐min Apgar score, umbilical cord pCO2, pH, and base deficit.

Results

Overall, a higher cord artery pCO2 was found to be associated with lower 5‐min Apgar scores. However, among newborns with moderate acidemia, lower umbilical cord artery pCO2 (≤median pCO2 for the specific cord artery pH) was associated with lower 5‐min Apgar scores, with a relative risk of 2.0 (95% confidence interval: 1.4–2.8) for 5‐min Apgar scores 0–6.

Conclusions

Metabolic acidosis affects the newborn's vitality more than respiratory acidosis. In addition, elevated levels of pCO2 may be beneficial for fetuses with moderate acidemia, and thus cord artery pCO2 is a factor that should be considered when assessing the compromised newborn.
Frequent detection of cytomegalovirus and Epstein–Barr virus in cervical secretions from healthy young women
Authors: Berntsson Matilda , Dubicanac Lejla , Tunbäck Petra , Ellström Agneta , Löwhagen Gun‐Britt , Bergström Tomas
Published: March 2013

Objective

To investigate asymptomatic shedding from the uterine cervix of five human herpes viruses: cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 and type 2 and varicella zoster virus (VZV), in young women.

Design

A descriptive study.

Setting

Sahlgrenska University Hospital.

Population

Three hundred and five young, healthy Swedish women.

Methods

Cervical specimens were analyzed for the presence of viral DNA with a quantitative real‐time PCR assay.

Main outcome measures

Detection of viral DNA.

Results

Viral DNA was detected in 66 (21.6%) of the cervical samples. The most common findings were CMV DNA, detected in 35 (11.5%), and EBV DNA, found in 32 (10.5%) of the women. HSV‐1 DNA was detected in 5 (1.7%) and HSV‐2 DNA in 4 (1.4%), but VZV DNA was not found. The estimated DNA level for the detected viruses was similar with a mean DNA quantity of 2.6 log genome equivalents (Geq)/mL for CMV (range 1.7–4.3), 2.5 log Geq/mL for EBV (range 1.7–4.7), 2.4 log Geq/mL for HSV‐1 (range 1.7–3.5) and 2.6 log Geq/mL for HSV‐2 (range 1.7–4.1). The simultaneous presence of DNA from two or more herpes viruses was detected in eight specimens.

Conclusions

Asymptomatic shedding of CMV and EBV from the uterine cervix was found in one‐fifth of young women. In four of the cervical samples; two with EBV, one with CMV, one with HSV‐2, high amounts of viral DNA (>4 log Geq/mL) were detected suggesting a greater risk of transmitting the virus perinatally or sexually.
Glycosaminoglycans in infectious disease
Authors: Kamhi Eyal , Joo Eun Ji , Dordick Jonathan S. , Linhardt Robert J.
Published: March 2013

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are complex carbohydrates that are ubiquitously present on the cell surface and in the extracellular matrix. Interactions between GAGs and pathogens represent the first line of contact between pathogen and host cell and are crucial to a pathogen's invasive potential. Their complexity and structural diversity allow GAGs to control a wide array of biological interactions influencing many physiological and pathological processes, including adhesion, cell‐to‐cell communication, biochemical cascades, and the immune response. In recent years, increasing evidence indicates an extraordinary role for GAGs in the pathogenesis of viruses, bacteria and parasites. Herein, we examine the interface between GAGs and different pathogens, and address the divergent biological functions of GAGs in infectious disease. We consider approaches to use this understanding to design novel therapeutic strategies addressing new challenges in the treatment of infectious diseases.
Chaperonin 60: a paradoxical, evolutionarily conserved protein family with multiple moonlighting functions
Authors: Henderson Brian , Fares Mario A. , Lund Peter A.
Published: March 2013

Chaperonin 60 is the prototypic molecular chaperone, an essential protein in eukaryotes and prokaryotes, whose sequence conservation provides an excellent basis for phylogenetic analysis. Escherichia coli chaperonin 60 (GroEL), the prototype of this family of proteins, has an established oligomeric‐structure‐based folding mechanism and a defined population of folding partners. However, there is a growing number of examples of chaperonin 60 proteins whose crystal structures and oligomeric composition are at variance with GroEL, suggesting that additional complexities in the protein‐folding function of this protein should be expected. In addition, many organisms have multiple chaperonin 60 proteins, some of which have lost their protein‐folding ability. It is emerging that this highly conserved protein has evolved a bewildering variety of additional biological functions – known as moonlighting functions – both within the cell and in the extracellular milieu. Indeed, in some organisms, it is these moonlighting functions that have been left after the loss of the protein‐folding activity. This highlights the major paradox in the biology of chaperonin 60. This article reviews the relationship between the folding and non‐folding (moonlighting) activities of the chaperonin 60 family and discusses current knowledge on their molecular evolution focusing on protein domains involved in the non‐folding chaperonin functions in an attempt to understand the emerging biology of this evolutionarily ancient protein family.
A cross‐sectional study of the association between circulating TSH level and lipid profile in a large Spanish population
Authors: Santos‐Palacios Silvia , Brugos‐Larumbe Antonio , Guillén‐Grima Francisco , Galofré Juan C.
Published: March 2013

Objective

Some evidence suggests that high serum TSH levels are associated with an adverse lipid profile, but this association is not clear when plasma TSH is within the reference range. Nevertheless, these studies have never been conducted in Spain, a country with a strong adherence to the Mediterranean diet. The study aim was to analyse the association between blood TSH levels and circulating lipids in a large Spanish population and set up a TSH reference range in different age, gender and Body Mass Index (BMI) subpopulations from our cohort.

Design

Cross‐sectional study on 20 783 subjects.

Patients

We analysed circulating levels of total cholesterol (TC), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLc), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc) and triglycerides (TG) and compared them with TSH serum levels. Discriminant function analysis was used to determine the TSH cut‐off level from where hyperlipidaemia developed.

Results

In individuals free of thyroid dysfunction, the mean and the 95% TSH (mU/l) reference limits were 2·20 and 0·72–4·43, respectively. We observed a sex‐related difference in TSH concentration (men, 2·07 and 0·72–4·29; women, 2·29 and 0·72–4·49; P < 0·01). We also observed a weight‐related difference in TSH concentration (BMI < 30 kg/m2, 2·16 and 0·72–4·39; BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2, 2·28 and 0·71–4·47; P < 0·01). TSH was positively associated with TC, TG and LDLc levels and negatively with HDLc.

Conclusion

We found an association between TSH and lipids in that as TSH increased, the lipid profile became less favourable, even within the normal range. Additionally, TSH reference ranges varied according to gender, age and BMI.
Retracted: Administration of MS‐275 Improves Cognitive Performance and Reduces Cell Death Following Traumatic Brain Injury in Rats
Authors: Cao Peng , Liang Yong , Gao Xu , Zhao Ming‐Guang , Liang Guo‐Biao
Published: March 2013

Aims

The MS‐275 is a selective inhibitor of class I histone deacetylases (HDACs), which has been reported as a potential strategy in some central nervous system diseases associated with neurodegeneration and disturbed learning. However, its role in traumatic brain injury is not well defined. In this study, we examined the behavioral–cognitive performance as well as histology outcome in adult rats to evaluate whether postinjury administration of MS‐275 (15 and 45 mg/kg) would provide neuroprotection benefits and ameliorate cognitive deficits following fluid percussion injury.

Methods

Traumatic brain injury (˜2.15 ATMs) was produced using a fluid percussion device with the lateral orientation. MS‐275 was administered (15 and 45 mg/kg) systemically once daily for 7 days starting at 30 min after lateral fluid percussion TBI. Acquisition of spatial learning and memory retention was assessed using the Morris water maze (MWM) on days 10–14 after TBI. Brain tissues were collected and stained with Fluoro‐Jade B histofluorescence (for degenerating neurons) at 24 h after injury and cresyl violet (for long‐term neuronal survival) on day 14 postinjury.

Results

Behavioral outcome after TBI revealed MS‐275 treatment groups, at all doses examined, performed significantly better in the Morris Water Maze (P < 0.001). Acute histology analysis demonstrated that 45 mg/kg MS‐275 significantly reduced the number of degenerating neurons in the ipsilateral CA2–3 hippocampus at 24 h postinjury (P = 0.007). There was a trend for MS‐275 to increase the survival of neurons in the CA2–3 hippocampus on 14 days after TBI (P = 0.164).

Conclusion

Our present data highlight the fact that MS‐275 may provide neuroprotective effect and improve cognitive performance after TBI. We concluded that MS‐275 is a potential novel treatment and will have an ameliorative effect on some of the pathological features associated with TBI.
Goal‐Proximity Decision‐Making
Authors: Veksler Vladislav D. , Gray Wayne D. , Schoelles Michael J.
Published: March 2013

Reinforcement learning (RL) models of decision‐making cannot account for human decisions in the absence of prior reward or punishment. We propose a mechanism for choosing among available options based on goal‐option association strengths, where association strengths between objects represent previously experienced object proximity. The proposed mechanism, Goal‐Proximity Decision‐making (GPD), is implemented within the ACT‐R cognitive framework. GPD is found to be more efficient than RL in three maze‐navigation simulations. GPD advantages over RL seem to grow as task difficulty is increased. An experiment is presented where participants are asked to make choices in the absence of prior reward. GPD captures human performance in this experiment better than RL.
Clinico‐genetic comparisons of paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia patients with and without PRRT2 mutations
Authors: Tan L. C. S. , Methawasin K. , Teng E. W. L. , Ng A. R. J. , Seah S. H. , Au W. L. , Liu J. J. , Foo J. N. , Zhao Y. , Tan E. K.
Published: March 2013

Background and purpose

Mutations in the PRRT2 gene have been identified in patients with paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesias (PKD); however, not many detailed clinico‐genetic correlations have been performed.

Methods

To investigate PRRT2 mutations in a mixed Asian PKD population and perform clinico‐genetic correlations, we recruited patients between 2002 and 2011 and administered a standardized questionnaire.

Results

Amongst 29 unrelated patients with PKD recruited, five PRRT2 mutations were present in 15 patients. Three mutations (c.649dupC, c.649delC, c.649C>T) were previous reported, while three were novel mutations (c.604delT; c.609_611delACC/p.Ser202Hisfs; c.697_698delAG/p.Ser233Trp fsX5). Clinico‐genetic correlations revealed that a history of seizures was more common in patients with PRRT2 mutations, although this did not reach statistical significance (P= 0.08). A younger age of onset, non‐Chinese, and the presence of premonitory sensations were significantly associated with PRRT2 mutations in the univariate analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that age of onset [odds ratio (OR) = 0.59, P = 0.025] and premonitory sensation (OR = 10.67, P = 0.028) were independently associated with positive PRRT2 mutation.

Conclusions

PRRT2 mutations are common in patients with PKD, and a double PRRT2 mutation is reported for the first time. PRRT2 mutations are significantly associated with a younger age of onset and the presence of premonitory sensation in our population.
A survey of adult and pediatric epilepsy surgery in the United Kingdom
Authors: Neligan Aidan , Haliasos Nik , Pettorini Benedetta , Harkness William F. J. , Solomon Juliet K.
Published: March 2013

All consultant epilepsy neurosurgeons were asked to prospectively record all epilepsy surgery procedures carried out at their center between April 2010 and March 2011. Figures were compared to a previous survey completed in 2000. Of a total of 710 procedures, temporal lobe surgery was the most common resective surgery. Although extratemporal lesional surgery was less common, vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) implantation accounted for almost half the procedures. The numbers for all surgical procedures, with the exception of VNS implantations, had decreased. This decrease may represent a global rather than a regional phenomenon. Further longitudinal multinational data on epilepsy surgery is required to confirm or refute this theory.
Patterns of cortical hyperexcitability in adolescent/adult‐onset generalized epilepsies
Authors: Badawy Radwa A. B. , Vogrin Simon J. , Lai Alan , Cook Mark J.
Published: March 2013

Purpose

To investigate whether using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to derive if measures of cortical excitability changes can distinguish between various adolescent/adult‐onset generalized epilepsy syndromes at different phases of the disorder.

Methods

One hundred thirty‐seven patients with adolescent/adult‐onset generalized epilepsy divided into juvenile myoclonic epilepsy, juvenile absence epilepsy, and generalized epilepsy with tonic–clonic seizures only were studied. The cohorts were further divided into drug naive‐new onset, refractory, and seizure‐free groups. Motor threshold (MT) and paired pulse TMS at short (2, 5, 10, 15 msec) and long (100–300 msec) interstimulus intervals (ISIs) were measured. Results were compared to those of 20 controls.

Key Findings

In the drug‐naive cohorts MT was reduced (p < 0.05) and cortical excitability increased at 2 and 5 msec and 150, 250, and 300 msec ISIs (p < 0.01) in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy compared to other generalized epilepsy groups and controls. Cortical excitability increased to a lesser degree in other generalized epilepsy syndromes compared to controls, but those two syndromes were not distinguishable from one another. The changes in paired pulse TMS were more prominent in the groups with refractory seizures and very small in the groups who were seizure free.

Significance

There are syndrome specific changes in cortical excitability associated with generalized epilepsy. These changes are also dependent on seizure control with medication. Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy has a higher cortical excitability profile compared to other adolescent/adult‐onset generalized epilepsy syndromes and can be clearly distinguished from them during all phases.
Equine skull magnetic resonance imaging: The where, when and why?
Authors: Holmes S. P.
Published: March 2013

See also article by Koch et al.
Potential movement of fish and shellfish stocks from the sub‐Arctic to the Arctic Ocean
Authors: Hollowed Anne Babcock , Planque Benjamin , Loeng Harald
Published: March 2013

An assessment of the potential for 17 fish or shellfish stocks or stock groups to move from the sub‐Arctic areas into the Arctic Ocean was conducted. A panel of 34 experts was convened to assess the impact of climate change on the potential movement of the 17 stocks or stock groups. The panel considered the exposure of species to climate change, the sensitivity of species to these changes and the adaptive capacity of each stock or stock group. Based on expert opinions, the potential for expansion or movement into the Arctic was qualitatively ranked (low potential, potential, high potential). It is projected that the Arctic Ocean will become ice‐free during the summer season, and when this happens new areas will open up for plankton production, which may lead to new feeding areas for fish stocks. Five stocks had a low potential to move to, or expand in, the high Arctic. Six species are considered as potential candidate species to move to, or expand in, the high Arctic. Six stocks had a high potential of establishing viable resident populations in the region. These six stocks exhibit life history characteristics that allow them to survive challenging environmental conditions that will continue to prevail in the north. This study suggests that several life history factors should be considered when assessing the potentiality of a species moving in response to changing climate conditions.
Modelling the dispersal of Calanus finmarchicus on the Newfoundland Shelf: implications for the analysis of population dynamics from a high frequency monitoring site
Authors: Pepin Pierre , Han Guoqi , Head Erica J.
Published: March 2013

We investigated the drift of passive particles on the Newfoundland Shelf and western Labrador Sea using numerical simulations to assess the possible sources of plankton collected at a high frequency sampling site (S27; 47.55°N, 52.59°W) located near the coast of Newfoundland, Canada. We also summarized data detailing the seasonal stage succession of Calanus finmarchicus at that site, as well as along three oceanographic sections sampled in the spring, summer and autumn across the adjacent continental shelf. Simulations indicated that the Labrador and Newfoundland Shelves represent the major sources of particles transiting through the S27 site, with relatively minor contributions from the western Labrador Sea which are significant during a few months each year. The latter point may be affected by uncertainty in the representation of cross‐shelf transport associated with seasonal or short‐term variations in atmospheric and oceanic forcing, which may also affect the strength and location of bifurcation of the inner branch of the Labrador Current around the Grand Banks. Nevertheless, our results indicated that drift along the inner shelf is likely to be the primary source of copepods collected at S27 throughout most of the year. This in turn suggested that there may be a higher degree of connectivity between conditions in coastal areas of Newfoundland and those in Baffin Bay and west Greenland than with the southern half of the Labrador Sea.
Skeletal muscle area correlates with body surface area in healthy adults
Authors: Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Shirabe Ken , Nakagawara Hidekazu , Ikegami Toru , Harimoto Norifumi , Toshima Takeo , Yamashita Yo‐ichi , Ikeda Tetsuo , Soejima Yuji , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: March 2013

Aim

Depletion of skeletal muscle mass (sarcopenia) predicts survival in patients with cancer or liver cirrhosis. Recently, many reports have used computed tomography (CT) to measure muscle area to define sarcopenia. However, the definition of sarcopenia using CT has not been fully determined. The aim of this study was to establish formulae to calculate the standard area of skeletal muscle.

Methods

Forty‐five healthy adults (24 men and 21 women, aged 21–66 years) who wished to donate part of their liver for transplantation underwent CT. Cross‐sectional areas (cm2) of skeletal muscle were measured at the caudal end of the third lumbar vertebra. Regression analysis was performed to establish formulae to calculate the standard area of skeletal muscle. A validation conducted on 30 other healthy adults was performed to check the accuracy of formulae.

Results

Men had a median skeletal muscle area of 155.0 cm2 (range, 114.0–203.0), compared with 111.7 cm2 (range, 89.8–139.3) in women (P < 0.001). Furthermore, skeletal muscle area significantly correlated with body surface area (BSA) in men (P < 0.0001, r2 = 0.60) and women (P < 0.0001, r2 = 0.78). The formulae to calculate skeletal muscle area were 126.9 × BSA − 66.2 in men and 125.6 × BSA − 81.1 in women. The estimated muscle area significantly correlated with actual muscle area in men (P = 0.003, r2 = 0.64) and women (P = 0.0001, r2 = 0.70).

Conclusion

Sarcopenia can be defined by the difference between measured data and calculated data using our new formulae.
The Relation between Physical and Risk‐neutral Cumulants
Authors: Zhao Huimin , Zhang Jin E. , Chang Eric C.
Published: March 2013

Variance swaps are natural instruments for investors taking directional bets on volatility and are often used for portfolio protection. The empirical observation on skewness research suggests that derivative professionals may also desire to hedge beyond volatility risk and there exists the need to hedge higher‐moment market risks, such as skewness and kurtosis risks. We study two derivative contracts – skewness swap and kurtosis swap – which trade the forward realized third and fourth cumulants. Using S&P 500 index options data from 1996 to 2005, we document the returns of these swap contracts, i.e., skewness risk premium and kurtosis risk premium. We find that the both skewness and kurtosis risk premiums are significantly negative.
Prior infection of pigs with a recent humanH3N2 influenza virus confers minimal cross‐protection against aEuropean swineH3N2 virus
Authors: Qiu Yu , van der Meulen Karen , Van Reeth Kristien
Published: March 2013

Background

H3N2 influenza viruses circulating in humans andEuropean pigs originate from the pandemicA/HongKong/68 virus. Because of slower antigenic drift in swine, the antigenic divergence between swine and human viruses has been increasing. It remains unknown to what extent this results in a reduced cross‐protection between recent human and swineH3N2 influenza viruses.

Objectives

We examined whether prior infection of pigs with an old [A/Victoria/3/75 (A/Vic/75)] or a more recent [A/Wisconsin/67/05 (A/Wis/05)] humanH3N2 virus protected against aEuropean swineH3N2 virus [sw/Gent/172/08 (sw/Gent/08)]. Genetic and antigenic relationships between sw/Gent/08 and a selection of humanH3N2 viruses were also assessed.

Results

After challenge with sw/Gent/08, all challenge controls had high virus titers in the entire respiratory tract at 3 days post‐challenge and nasal virus excretion for 5–6 days. Prior infection with sw/Gent/08 orA/Vic/75 offered complete virological protection against challenge. Pigs previously inoculated withA/Wis/05 showed similar virus titers in the respiratory tract as challenge controls, but the mean duration of nasal shedding was 1·3 days shorter. Unlike sw/Gent/08‐ andA/Vic/75‐inoculated pigs,A/Wis/05‐inoculated pigs lacked cross‐reactive neutralizing antibodies against sw/Gent/08 before challenge, but they showed a more rapid antibody response to sw/Gent/08 than challenge controls after challenge. Cross‐protection and serological responses correlated with genetic and antigenic differences.

Conclusions

Infection immunity to a recent humanH3N2 virus confers minimal cross‐protection against aEuropean swineH3N2 virus. We discuss our findings with regard to the recent zoonotic infections of humans in the United States with a swine‐originH3N2 variant virus.
Progressive emergence of an oseltamivir‐resistant A(H3N2) virus over two courses of oseltamivir treatment in an immunocompromised paediatric patient
Authors: Hurt Aeron C. , Leang Sook Kwan , Tiedemann Karin , Butler Jeff , Mechinaud Francoise , Kelso Anne , Downie Peter , Barr Ian G.
Published: March 2013

A minor viral population of oseltamivir‐resistant A(H3N2) viruses (E119V neuraminidase mutation) was selected and maintained in a continually infected immunocompromised child following initial oseltamivir treatment. A subsequent course of oseltamivir given 7 weeks later rapidly selected for the E119V variant resulting in a near‐pure population of the resistant virus. The study highlights the challenges of oseltamivir treatment of immunocompromised patients that are continually shedding virus and demonstrates the ability of the E119V oseltamivir‐resistant virus to be maintained for prolonged periods even in the absence of drug‐selective pressure.
Effects of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy on Healing of Free Full‐Thickness Skin Grafts in Dogs
Authors: Stanley Bryden J. , Pitt Kathryn A. , Weder Christian D. , Fritz Michele C. , Hauptman Joe G. , Steficek Barbara A.
Published: March 2013

Objective

To compare healing of free, full‐thickness, meshed skin grafts under negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) with bolster dressings in dogs.

Study design

Randomized, controlled experimental study, paired design.

Animals

Dogs (n = 5)

Methods

Full‐thickness skin wounds (4 cm × 1.5 cm) were created bilaterally on the antebrachia of 5 dogs (n = 10). Excised skin was grafted to the contralateral limb. Grafts were randomized to NPWT or bolster dressings (control; CON). NPWT was applied continuously for 7 days. Grafts were evaluated on Days 2, 4, 7, 10, 14, and 17, biopsied on days 0, 4, 7, and 14, and had microbial culture on Day 7. Outcome variables were: time to first appearance of granulation tissue, percent graft necrosis, and percent open mesh. Significance was set at P < .05. Histologic findings, culture results, and graft appearance were reported.

Results

Granulation tissue appeared earlier in the NPWT grafts compared with CON grafts. Percent graft necrosis and remaining open mesh area were both greater in CON grafts compared with NPWT grafts at most time points. Histologic results showed no significant difference in all variables measured, and all cultures were negative.

Conclusions

Variables of graft acceptance were superior when NPWT was used in the first week post‐grafting. Fibroplasia was enhanced, open meshes closed more rapidly and less graft necrosis occurred with NPWT application. More preclinical studies are required to evaluate histologic differences.
BRAF mutational epidemiology in dysplastic nevi: Does different solar UV radiation exposure matter?
Authors: Saroufim M. , Novy M. , Taraif S. , Habib R.H. , Loya A. , Rauscher B. , Kriegshäuser G. , Oberkanins C. , Khalifeh I.
Published: March 2013

Background

Proto‐oncogene B‐Raf (BRAF) mutation rates have been reported in nevi and melanomas of homogeneous Caucasian cohorts.

Objective

To study the demographics of BRAF mutations in dysplastic nevi of populations with differing potential solar UV radiation exposure.

Methods

Extended BRAF testing for 9 mutations in 125 dysplastic nevi from 101 patients, derived from populations with differing potential UV radiation exposure rates (Lebanon and Saudi Arabia), was performed. Clinical and microscopic parameters were recorded.

Results

BRAF mutation status was carried out for 101/125 (80.8%) cases with an overall mutation rate of 62.4% (63/101). V600E (c.1799T > A) was the predominant mutation, found in 61/63 (96.8%) cases. BRAF mutation rate differed significantly by potential UV radiation exposure (Lebanon: 53.4%, Saudi Arabia: 74.4%, P < 0.05). A 43.8% discordant mutation rate (7/16 patients) was found in patients with multiple nevi, including 2 patients with different BRAF mutations. Microscopic examination subdivided the dysplasia into mild (n = 24), moderate (n = 60) and severe (n = 41) with trunk predominance (72.8%). Higher rates of pigment in the stratum corneum were identified in Saudi Arabia (P < 0.05). No statistical significant increase in BRAF mutation rate was noted with advanced architectural and cytological atypia. Parameters associated with a negative BRAF mutation status included upper extremity location, regression, cohesiveness and presence of suprabasal melanocytes (P < 0.05). Positive BRAF mutation status was reasonably predicted by multivariate binary logistic regression by 2 independent predictors: Geographic location and compound nevus type.

Conclusions

In our Near Eastern cohort, the BRAF mutation rate varied significantly by geographic location. In patients with multiple dysplastic nevi examined, discordant BRAF mutation status potentially negates an underlying constitutional predilection.
Chewing gum reduces postoperative ileus following abdominal surgery: A meta‐analysis of 17 randomized controlled trials
Authors: Li Shan , Liu Yanqiong , Peng Qiliu , Xie Li , Wang Jian , Qin Xue
Published: March 2013

Background and Aim

Chewing gum proposal has been used in surgery to reduce postoperative ileus for more than 10 years; however, the efficacy remains imprecise. The aim of this study was to accurately assess whether the use of the chewing gum could reduce duration of postoperative ileus following the abdominal surgery.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted in Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library through December 2012 to identify randomized controlled trials comparing with and without the use of chewing gum in patients undergoing abdominal surgery. The outcome of interest was time to flatus, time to bowel movement, and length of stay. Subgroup analyses were performed to examine the impact of different studies structural design. Cumulative meta‐analyses were used to examine how the evidence has changed over time.

Results

Seventeen randomized controlled trials involving 1374 participants were included. Overall time (in days) for the patients to pass flatus (weighted mean difference [WMD], −0.31; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.43 to −0.19; P = 0.000); time to bowel movement (WMD, −0.51; 95% CI, −0.73 to −0.29; P = 0.000); and length of stay (WMD, −0.72; 95% CI, −1.02 to −0.43; P = 0.000) were significantly reduced in the treatment group. However, both of these results demonstrated significant heterogeneity. No evidence of publication bias was observed. Cumulative meta‐analysis showed that chewing gum reduces duration of postoperative ileus that has been available for over 6 years.

Conclusions

Results of the meta‐analysis suggest that chewing gum following abdominal surgery offers benefits in reducing the time of postoperative ileus.
Predictors and Processes Associated with Home‐Based Family Therapists' Professional Quality of Life
Authors: Macchi C. R. , Johnson Matthew D. , Durtschi Jared A.
Published: March 2013

This study examined whether home‐based family therapists' (HBFT) workload and clinical experience were associated with therapists' professional quality of life directly and indirectly through self‐care activities and frequency of clinical supervision. Hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling with a sample of 225 home‐based therapists. Results suggested that therapists' workload and HBFT experience significantly predicted therapists' professional quality of life. These associations between therapists' workload and HBFT experience were partially mediated through participation in self‐care and frequency of clinical supervision. Implications for improving therapists' quality of life are discussed as a function of therapists' workload, clinical experience, self‐care, and supervision.
Simulation as a learning strategy: supporting undergraduate nursing students with disabilities
Authors: Azzopardi Toni , Johnson Amanda , Phillips Kirrilee , Dickson Cathy , Hengstberger‐Sims Cecily , Goldsmith Mary , Allan Trevor
Published: March 2013

Aims and objectives

To promote simulation as a learning strategy to support undergraduate nursing students with disabilities.

Background

Supporting undergraduate nursing students with disabilities has gained further momentum because of amendments to the Disability Discrimination Act in 2009. Providers of higher education must now ensure proactive steps to prevent discrimination against students with a disability are implemented to assist in course progression. Simulation allows for the impact of a student's disability to be assessed and informs the determination of reasonable adjustments to be implemented. Further suitable adjustments can then be determined in a safe environment and evaluated prior to scheduled placement. Auditing in this manner, offers a risk management strategy for all while maintaining the academic integrity of the program.

Design

Discursive.

Methods

Low, medium and high fidelity simulation activities critically analysed and their application to support undergraduate nursing students with disabilities assessed.

Results

With advancing technology and new pedagogical approaches simulation as a learning strategy can play a significant role. In this role, simulation supports undergraduate nursing students with disabilities to meet course requirements, while offering higher education providers an important risk management strategy.

Conclusion

The discussion recommends simulation is used to inform the determination of reasonable adjustments for undergraduate nursing students with disabilities as an effective, contemporary curriculum practice. Adoption of simulation, in this way, will meet three imperatives: comply with current legislative requirements, embrace advances in learning technologies and embed one of the six principles of inclusive curriculum. Achieving these imperatives is likely to increase accessibility for all students and offer students with a disability a supportive learning experience.

Relevance to clinical practice

Provides capacity to systematically assess, monitor, evaluate and support students with a disability. The students' reasonable adjustments can be determined prior to attending clinical practice to minimise risks and ensure the safety of all.
Predictors of good‐quality counselling from the perspective of hospitalised chronically ill adults
Authors: Kaakinen Pirjo , Kyngäs Helvi , Kääriäinen Maria
Published: March 2013

Aims and objectives

To determine the factors that predict the quality of patient counselling from the perspective of hospitalised chronically ill adults.

Background

In view of the growing number of adults with chronic diseases and a lack of resources in health care, it would be valuable for healthcare professionals to know which factors result in good‐quality counselling for such individuals.

Design

The study used a cross‐sectional, descriptive design.

Methods

Data were collected from chronically ill adults (n = 106) in northern Finland and were analysed using logistic regression.

Results

Counselling implementation was perceived to be of good quality if it was preplanned (odds ratio = 24·07) and patient‐centred (odds ratio = 16·03) and if interaction during counselling (odds ratio = 13·27) was good. Counselling about social support (odds ratio = 14·78), preplanned counselling (odds ratio = 9·69), counselling about the results of investigations (odds ratio = 7·84) and counselling about disease progression (odds ratio = 7·66) were statistically significant predictors of the content being considered good quality. The effects of counselling on disease treatment (odds ratio = 11·33), patient‐centred counselling (odds ratio = 9·75) and counselling about the effects of attitudes (odds ratio = 9·52) were statistically significant predictors of highly beneficial counselling. Counselling about the effects of disease treatment (odds ratio = 9·71) and interaction during counselling (odds ratio = 4·91) predicted the quality of counselling materials and methods.

Conclusion

The results could be used to help healthcare professionals to ensure good‐quality counselling by highlighting the areas that are most important to meet the expectations of chronically ill adults.

Relevance to clinical practice

The results can be used to develop the quality of chronically ill adults' counselling as well as to educate staff to focus better on chronically ill patients' counselling because it is necessary to develop new ways to offer more patient‐centred counselling in order to address patients' needs and fit care to patients' lifestyles.
Pain characteristics and self‐rated health after elective orthopaedic surgery – a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Lindberg Maren F , Grov Ellen K , Gay Caryl L , Rustøen Tone , Granheim Tove I , Amlie Einar , Lerdal Anners
Published: March 2013

Aims and objectives

To describe the postoperative pain and to examine the relationship between pain intensity, pain interference and self‐rated health after elective orthopaedic surgery.

Background

Pain is a problem for many surgical inpatients and can lead to postoperative complications. Limited knowledge exists about the relationship between postoperative pain, function and self‐rated health.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

Pain characteristics, self‐rated health, sociodemographic status and comorbidity were measured in 123 elective orthopaedic inpatients recruited consecutively from a hospital in eastern Norway in 2012. On the day they were discharged from the surgical unit, patients completed items about pain intensity and pain interference from the Brief Pain Inventory and about self‐rated health from the Medical Outcome Short Form‐36 Health Survey. Clinical data were retrieved from the medical records. Patients were divided into three diagnostic groups: shoulder surgery, hip or knee replacement and other surgery.

Results

Mean age was 60 years (SD 17·2) and 50% were females. Average pain intensity was 4·2 (SD 2·2) on a 0–10 numeric rating scale and 60% reported moderate/severe pain during the entire hospital stay. Shoulder surgery patients reported significantly higher pain intensity compared to other surgical groups. Pain interfered mostly with daily activity and sleep. Higher pain intensity was significantly associated with poorer self‐rated health. The linear regression analysis showed that average pain intensity was related to poorer self‐rated health, controlling for sociodemographic variables and pain interference with function.

Conclusion

High pain intensity is related to poorer self‐rated health. Postoperative pain is undermanaged, affects functional areas and could delay rehabilitation.

Relevance to clinical practice

Postoperative pain management should be given high priority after elective orthopaedic surgery, in order to improve self‐rated health and function. Pain treatment for shoulder surgery patients may require more attention than it currently receives.
Knowledge about medications and products to prevent and treat pressure ulcers: a cross‐sectional survey of nurses and physicians in a Primary Health Care setting
Authors: Romero‐Collado Angel , Homs‐Romero Erica , Zabaleta‐del‐Olmo Edurne
Published: March 2013

Aims and objectives

To report on a study of what primary care nurses and physicians know about medications and healthcare products to prevent and treat pressure ulcers.

Background

The prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers has generally become the responsibility of the nursing staff; this has resulted in studies of nurses' knowledge of this task, although few studies include physicians in their analysis.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey conducted in North Girona (Province) Primary Care Services from February to April 2010.

Methods

The study questionnaire had three sections: sociodemographic data, questions about division of responsibility for the care of patients with pressure ulcers or at risk of developing them, and 36 statements based on the recommendations in clinical practice guidelines provided by well‐recognised national and international institutions.

Results

Eighty‐one nurses (64·8%) and 46 physicians (36·8%) responded to this study. Nurses had greater responsibility for the care of pressure ulcers, made greater use of medical prescriptions to obtain supplies if not available in the primary care centre, were more familiar with the site's clinical practice guidelines on the topic and showed better adherence to their recommendations. Nurses also had better knowledge than the participating physicians of the use of medications and healthcare products to heal or to prevent pressure ulcers.

Conclusions

Nurses had sufficient knowledge and more appropriate skills than the participating physicians for the prescription of medications and healthcare products for the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers.

Relevance to clinical practice

The data demonstrated that nurses have sufficient knowledge and skill to provide wound care and could safely write these prescriptions, although Spanish law permitting nurse prescription is not fully implemented.
Variability in Personality Expression Across Contexts: A Social Network Approach
Authors: Clifton Allan
Published: March 2013

The current research investigated how the contextual expression of personality differs across interpersonal relationships. Two related studies were conducted with college samples (Study 1: N = 52, 38 female; Study 2: N = 111, 72 female). Participants in each study completed a five‐factor measure of personality and constructed a social network detailing their 30 most important relationships. Participants used a brief Five‐Factor Model scale to rate their personality as they experience it when with each person in their social network. Multiple informants selected from each social network then rated the target participant's personality (Study 1: N = 227, Study 2: N = 777). Contextual personality ratings demonstrated incremental validity beyond standard global self‐report in predicting specific informants' perceptions. Variability in these contextualized personality ratings was predicted by the position of the other individuals within the social network. Across both studies, participants reported being more extraverted and neurotic, and less conscientious, with more central members of their social networks. Dyadic social network–based assessments of personality provide incremental validity in understanding personality, revealing dynamic patterns of personality variability unobservable with standard assessment techniques.
A Survey Investigating the Infection of Fusarium langsethiae and Production of HT‐2 and T‐2 Mycotoxins in UK Oat Fields
Authors: Imathiu Samuel M. , Ray Rumiana V. , Back Matthew I. , Hare Martin C. , Edwards Simon G.
Published: March 2013

Fusarium langsethiae is a toxigenic fungal species that has been reported in European small‐grain cereal crops such as oats, wheat and barley. Although its relative contribution to fusarium head blight (FHB) symptoms is not well understood, it is reported to contaminate these cereals with high levels of HT‐2 and T‐2 trichothecenes mycotoxins that are currently under consideration for legislation by the European Commission. Ten commercial oat fields in Shropshire and Staffordshire (two adjacent counties in the Midlands) in the UK were surveyed in the 2006/2007 growing season. Samples were taken from predetermined field locations at Zadoks growth stages 32/33, 69, 77‐85 and 90‐92 for F. langsethiae biomass and HT‐2 and T‐2 toxins quantification. The results from this study showed that oats can be heavily infected with F. langsethiae and have high concentrations of HT‐2 and T‐2 toxins with no apparent FHB symptoms. The regression of HT‐2 + T‐2 toxins on F. langsethiae DNA concentration was highly significant (P < 0.001, r2 = 0.55). The results indicated that although F. langsethiae had no direct effect on crop yield, it may result in indirect economic losses where the grain can be rejected or downgraded as a result of intolerable levels of HT‐2 and T‐2 toxins, which are of human food and animal feed safety concern. The influence of cultural field practices on the infection and HT‐2 and T‐2 toxins accumulation in oats was not clear and warrants further studies to identify the sources of F. langsethiae inoculum and conditions favourable for infection and mycotoxin production.
Nine‐spined stickleback (Pungitius pungitius): an emerging model for evolutionary biology research
Authors: Merilä Juha
Published: March 2013

The nine‐spined stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) is emerging as a model for evolutionary biology, genetic, and behavioral research in the wake of its better‐known relative, the three‐spined stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus). This interest has been fed by its fascinating biological features, such as the repeated evolution of similar phenotypes in isolated pond populations. A large body of recent research has uncovered the finding that pond nine‐spined sticklebacks have evolved numerous morphological, life history, neuroanatomical, and behavioral adaptations—possibly in response to reduced threat of fish predation—which differentiate them from their marine conspecifics. These features, together with insights from recent population genetic studies, suggest that this species provides an interesting model for studies aiming to understand—and differentiate between—genetic convergence and parallelism as underlying mechanism(s) of evolution of similar phenotypes in multiple independent sites. This review provides a synopsis of and reflections on the insights borne out of recent studies of nine‐spined sticklebacks—the little sister of ecology's “new supermodel.”
Photobiological Safety Evaluation of UV Nail Lamps
Authors: Dowdy John C. , Sayre Robert M.
Published: March 2013

We evaluated six UV nail lamps representative of major US manufacturers to evaluate radiant hazards as defined in ANSI/IESNA RP‐27 Recommended Practice for Photobiological Safety. Lamps were evaluated at three positions, 1 cm above the inner surface approximating exposure to the hand and the 20 cm RP‐27 non‐general light source distance, oriented normal and 45° to the opening. Hazard to skin at intended use distance classified these devices into Risk Group 1 or 2 (Low to Moderate) with S(λ) weighted Actinic UV ranging 1.2–1.7 μW cm−² and 29.8–276.25 min permissible daily exposure. At 20 cm on center and 45° UV risk to skin and eyes were all within Exempt classification. Actinic UV ranged 0.001–0.078 μW cm−² and unweighted near UV (320–400 nm) ranged 0.001–0.483 mW cm−². Likewise the retinal photochemical blue light hazard and retinal thermal and cornea/lens IR were also Exempt. One device had aphakic eye hazard slightly rising into Risk Group 1 (Low). There were no other photobiological risks to normal individuals. Total exposure following programmed times and steps accumulate to only a small fraction of RP‐27 permissible daily occupational exposure. These risks are further mitigated in realistic nonoccupational use scenarios as it is unlikely to be a daily occurrence.