bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single application of high‐intensity focused ultrasound as a first‐line therapy for clinically localized prostate cancer: 5‐year outcomes
Authors: Pfeiffer Dietrich , Berger Jürgen , Gross Andreas J.
Published: August 2012

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

High‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy has been proposed for the treatment of localized prostate cancer (PCa) for all risk levels of tumour recurrence.

The study adds data on the efficacy of a single HIFU application in the treatment of PCa with different risks of recurrence. Durable cancer control was achieved in 81.7% of patients with low‐risk disease, with rates of efficacy declining in intermediate‐ and high‐risk tumours. The data suggest that the principal domain for minimal invasive HIFU should be low‐risk disease.

OBJECTIVE

To report cancer control results after a single application of high‐intensity focused ultrasonography (HIFU) in patients with localized prostate cancer (PCa), stratified by tumour recurrence risk according to D'Amico risk classification.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In a retrospective single‐centre study, we analysed the outcomes of patients with localized PCa who were treated with curative intent between December 2002 and October 2006 using an Ablatherm HIFU device (EDAP‐TMS, France).

Transurethral resection of the prostate or adenomectomy were performed before HIFU to downsize large prostate glands.

Oncological failure was determined by the occurrence of biochemical relapse, positive biopsy and/or metastasis. Biochemical relapse was defined as a PSA nadir +1.2 ng/mL (Stuttgart definition), or as a rise in PSA level to ≥0.5 ng/mL if PSA doubling time was ≤6 months. Kaplan–Meier analysis was performed for survival estimates.

RESULTS

A total of 191 consecutive patients were included in the study. The median (range) patient age was 69.7 (51–82) years, and 38, 34 and 28% of these patients were in the low‐, intermediate‐ and high‐risk groups, respectively.

The median (range) follow‐up was 52.8 (0.2–79.8) months.

At 5 years, overall and cancer‐specific survival rates were 86.3% and 98.4%, respectively.

Stratified by risk group, negative biopsy rates were 84.2%, 63.6%, and 67.5% (P = 0.032), 5‐year biochemical‐free survival rates were 84.8%, 64.9% and 54.9% (P < 0.01), and 5‐year disease‐free survival rates were 81.7%, 53.2% and 51.2% (P < 0.01), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Single‐session HIFU is recommended as a curative approach in elderly patients with low‐risk PCa. Patients at higher risk of tumour progression should be counselled regarding the likely need for salvage therapy, including repeat HIFU.
Demographic analysis of randomized controlled trials in bladder cancer
Authors: Bachir Bassel G. , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Zlotta Alexandre , Svatek Robert , Black Peter C. , Shah Jay B. , Kassouf Wassim ,   Bladder Cancer Think Tank (Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network),   Canadian Bladder Cancer Network (Bladder Cancer Canada)
Published: August 2012

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Results from well designed randomized controlled trials usually provide the strongest evidence possible in favour of one medical intervention over another. For this reason, it is of paramount importance to conduct such trials in bladder cancer, where randomized trials are lacking, in particular to answer questions that have so far confounded us or to investigate the efficacy of new diagnostic tools or interventions.

This study provides a demographic analysis of randomized controlled trials published in bladder cancer between the years of 1995 and 2010, with only 238 articles identified. Less than one‐third of these reported a statistical power calculation, and only 8% were double‐blinded. With many publications inaccurately labelled as randomized trials, we reveal the scarcity of trials performed over the given time period, even compared with other cancers with similar incidence, and highlight the need for more well designed trials to be conducted.

Objective

To demographically examine randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that have been conducted in bladder cancer over a predefined time period.

Methods

Various techniques have been described to detect RCTs using different databases.

We searched the MEDLINE database by crossing the heading ‘Urinary bladder neoplasms’ with the MeSHs ‘Clinical trial$.mp. OR clinical trial.pt. OR random:.mp. OR tu.xs.’ between 1995 and 2010.

For the RCTs identified, analysis was performed on each RCT, placing particular emphasis on modality of intervention, cohort size, principal author, region, journal type, disease status, histology, blinding, number of centres involved, performance of a statistical power calculation, accrual status and trial support.

Results

Of 5002 RCT bladder cancer papers retrieved over the given period, only 238 represented actual RCTs after manual appraisal.

More than half of the RCTs investigated medical and surgical therapies (54.2%), and only half had a sample size of >100 patients.

A small percentage of studies were double‐blinded (8.0%), and there was an almost equal distribution of multicentre vs single centre trials (54.6% vs 45.4%).

More studies were conducted in Europe (61.3%) than the rest of the world combined, with urologists principally the lead investigators in the majority (72.3%).

Most studies were conducted on patients with urothelial carcinoma (97.1%), with less than one‐third reporting a statistical power calculation (31.5%).

Conclusions

Only 238 RCTs were published for bladder cancer between 1995 and 2010.

RCTs are under‐utilized in bladder cancer.

More trials need to be designed with larger sample sizes in order to optimize diagnostic and treatment strategies for patients with bladder cancer.
The risk of proliferative retinopathy in siblings with Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Hietala K. , Forsblom C. , Summanen P. , Groop P.‐H. ,   on behalf of the FinnDiane Study Group
Published: August 2012

Diabet. Med. 29, 1567–1573 (2012)

Aims  The siblings first affected by Type 1 diabetes (probands) within a sibship have been shown to have a lower age at onset of Type 1 diabetes compared with their later‐affected siblings. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether this difference affects the long‐term risk of proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Methods  A cohort of 396 siblings with Type 1 diabetes in 188 sibships was drawn from a larger Finnish Diabetic Nephropathy Study population (4800 patients). Ophthalmic records were obtained for 369/396 (93%) patients. Retinopathy was graded based on fundus photographs and/or repeated ophthalmoscopies.

Results  The median age at onset of Type 1 diabetes was 8.4 (interquartile range 4.2–13.3) years in probands and 16.9 (interquartile range 10.2–27.8) years in later‐affected siblings (P < 0.001). Proliferative retinopathy was diagnosed in 115/369 (31%) patients. The cumulative incidence estimates for proliferative retinopathy, accounting for the competing risk of death, were 21% (95% CI 15–27) in probands and 26% (95% CI 19–35) in later‐affected siblings at 20 years of diabetes duration, and the respective 30 years’ incidences were 37% (95% CI 29–45) and 53% (95% CI 40–64), (P = 0.05, Gray’s test). The risk of proliferative retinopathy, adjusted for conventional risk factors, age at onset and sibship size, was higher in later‐affected siblings [hazard ratio 1.75 (95% CI 1.13–2.75), P = 0.01] compared with their probands.

Conclusion  The siblings first affected by Type 1 diabetes had a better long‐term prognosis with regards to development of proliferative retinopathy compared with their later‐affected siblings.
Dutch Disease in Australia: Policy Options for a Three‐Speed Economy
Authors: Corden W. Max
Published: August 2012

‘Dutch Disease’ refers to the adverse effects through real exchange rate appreciation that the mining boom can have on various export‐ and import‐competing industries. The distinction is made between the booming sector (mining), the lagging sector (exports not part of the booming sector and import‐competing goods and services) and the non‐tradeable sector. What should the government do to reduce this Dutch ‘disease’? The principal options are: do nothing, piecemeal protectionism, moderate exchange rate effects by running a fiscal surplus, combined with lowering the interest rate, and possibly establishing a sovereign wealth fund. The costs of the latter measures may be considerable.
I Want to Be an Economist: A Rejoinder to Ross Gittins
Authors: Borland Jeff
Published: August 2012

This article provides a rejoinder to Ross Gittins’ commentary on the potential contributions of psychology and behavioural economics to public policy formation. It includes three main arguments. First, that behavioural economics is not a new approach to doing economics, but instead is best seen as a way of enriching ‘conventional economics’ (using Gittins’ terminology). Second, that behavioural economics is not a panacea. Not all aspects of economic activity need psychology to be understood and behavioural economics has limitations. Third, that the failings of conventional economics are not as severe as Gittins suggests.
Introducing ‘Journeys Home’
Authors: Wooden Mark , Bevitt Andrew , Chigavazira Abraham , Greer Nancy , Johnson Guy , Killackey Eoin , Moschion Julie , Scutella Rosanna , Tseng Yi‐Ping , Watson Nicole
Published: August 2012

Homelessness, despite being a major social policy issue in Australia, is an area that is not well served by data. Most sorely lacking is any large‐scale panel study that follows a broad sample of persons with recent experience of homelessness and unstable housing histories. In 2010, the Australian Government set about rectifying this deficiency when it commissioned the Melbourne Institute to undertake a new panel study, now known as ‘Journeys Home’. This study draws its sample from the population of Centrelink income‐support recipients, targeting persons identified in the administrative data as having recent experience of homelessness, as well as others with similar characteristics who may be vulnerable to housing difficulties in the future. This article summarises the design of this new study and reports on fieldwork outcomes from the first two waves of data collection.
The Governance of a Fragile Eurozone
Authors: De Grauwe Paul
Published: August 2012

When entering a monetary union, member countries change the nature of their sovereign debt in a fundamental way; that is, they cease to have control over the currency in which their debt is issued. As a result, financial markets can force these countries’ sovereigns into defaulting. This makes the monetary union fragile and vulnerable to changing market sentiments. It also makes it possible that self‐fulfilling multiple equilibria arise. I analyse the implications of this fragility for the governance of the Eurozone. I argue that the role of the European Central Bank as a lender of last resort is crucial in reducing the fragility of the Eurozone. In addition, steps towards a budgetary union are key in structurally strengthening the union.
A Decade of Intergenerational Reports: Contributing to Long‐Term Fiscal Sustainability
Authors: Gruen David , Spender Duncan
Published: August 2012

The Intergenerational Reports have helped lengthen the horizon of public policy analysis in Australia, enabling governments to focus on the longer term implications of policy changes, particularly their fiscal implications. Nonetheless, it is important to note that the reports have examined fiscal sustainability from the Commonwealth's perspective, notwithstanding that fiscal sustainability is also an issue for the states and territories. Additionally, the reports have not incorporated contingent fiscal liabilities, notwithstanding their relevance to fiscal sustainability.
Children’s Physiological and Emotional Reactions to Witnessing Bullying Predict Bystander Intervention
Authors: Barhight Lydia R. , Hubbard Julie A. , Hyde Christopher T.
Published: August 2012

Study goals were to explore whether children clustered into groups based on reactions to witnessing bullying and to examine whether these reactions predicted bullying intervention. Seventy‐nine children (M = 10.80 years) watched bullying videos in the laboratory while their heart rate (HR) was measured, and they self‐reported on negative emotion after each video. Bullying intervention was assessed by school peers. Two groups emerged based on reactions to the bullying videos: The Emotional group (43% of children) displayed HR acceleration and reported high negative emotion, whereas the Unemotional group (57% of children) showed HR deceleration and reported low negative emotion. Group membership predicted bullying intervention, with peers reporting that Emotional children were more likely to stop a bully than Unemotional children.
State of the Art Report on Video‐Based Graphics and Video Visualization
Authors: Borgo R. , Chen M. , Daubney B. , Grundy E. , Heidemann G. , Höferlin B. , Höferlin M. , Leitte H. , Weiskopf D. , Xie X.
Published: August 2012

In recent years, a collection of new techniques which deal with video as input data, emerged in computer graphics and visualization. In this survey, we report the state of the art in video‐based graphics and video visualization. We provide a review of techniques for making photo‐realistic or artistic computer‐generated imagery from videos, as well as methods for creating summary and/or abstract visual representations to reveal important features and events in videos. We provide a new taxonomy to categorize the concepts and techniques in this newly emerged body of knowledge. To support this review, we also give a concise overview of the major advances in automated video analysis, as some techniques in this field (e.g. feature extraction, detection, tracking and so on) have been featured in video‐based modelling and rendering pipelines for graphics and visualization.
Comparison of Four Subjective Methods for Image Quality Assessment
Authors: Mantiuk Rafał K. , Tomaszewska Anna , Mantiuk Radosław
Published: August 2012

To provide a convincing proof that a new method is better than the state of the art, computer graphics projects are often accompanied by user studies, in which a group of observers rank or rate results of several algorithms. Such user studies, known as subjective image quality assessment experiments, can be very time‐consuming and do not guarantee to produce conclusive results. This paper is intended to help design efficient and rigorous quality assessment experiments and emphasise the key aspects of the results analysis. To promote good standards of data analysis, we review the major methods for data analysis, such as establishing confidence intervals, statistical testing and retrospective power analysis. Two methods of visualising ranking results together with the meaningful information about the statistical and practical significance are explored. Finally, we compare four most prominent subjective quality assessment methods: single‐stimulus, double‐stimulus, forced‐choice pairwise comparison and similarity judgements. We conclude that the forced‐choice pairwise comparison method results in the smallest measurement variance and thus produces the most accurate results. This method is also the most time‐efficient, assuming a moderate number of compared conditions.
Forward stage‐wise ensemble regression algorithm to improve base regressors prediction ability: an empirical study
Authors: Özçift Akın
Published: August 2012

Analysis of scientific data requires accurate regressor algorithms to decrease prediction errors. Lots of machine learning algorithms, that is, neural networks, rule‐based algorithms, regression trees and some kinds of lazy learners, are used to realize this need. In recent years, different ensemble regression strategies were improved to obtain enhanced predictors with lower forecasting errors. Ensemble algorithms combine good models that make errors in different parts of analyzed data. There are mainly two approaches in ensemble regression algorithm generation; boosting and bagging. The aim of this article is to evaluate a boosting‐based ensemble approach, forward stage‐wise additive modelling (FSAM), to improve some widely used base regressors’ prediction ability. We used 10 regression algorithms in four different types to make predictions on 10 diverse data from different scientific areas and we compared the experimental results in terms of correlation coefficient, mean absolute error, and root mean squared error metrics. Furthermore, we made use of scatter plots to demonstrate the effect of ensemble modelling on the prediction accuracies of evaluated algorithms. We empirically obtained that in general FSAM enhances the accuracies of base regressors or it at least maintains the base regressor performance.
Flood forecasting at the Dadu River in China based on ANN
Authors: Feng Li‐Hua
Published: August 2012

Mappings of the stimuli effects and the input and output estimates of artificial neural networks (ANN) are obtained via combinations of nonlinear functions. This approach offers the advantages of self‐learning, self‐organization, self‐adaptation, and fault tolerance as well as the potential for use in flood forecasting applications. Furthermore, the ANN technology allows the use of multiple variables in both the input and output layers. This capability is very important for flood calculation because the stage, discharge, and other hydrological variables often are functions of many influential variables. Herein, we propose a flood forecasting system with related application, based on ANN. This method offers better performance and efficiency.
Effects of the correlation model, the trend model, and the number of training points on the accuracy ofKriging metamodels
Authors: Acar Erdem
Published: August 2012

This paper explores the effects of the correlation model, the trend model, and the number of training points on the accuracy ofKriging metamodels.Gaussian correlation models are found to be superior to exponential and linear correlation models. No particular trend model is found to be better than the other models. The number of training points used in constructing theKriging metamodels is observed to change the relative performances of the trend and the correlation functions. The leave‐one‐out cross‐validation error is found to become a better surrogate for the actual error, as the number of training points is increased. Finally, the use of an ensemble of metamodels is discussed and it is found that using an ensemble may improve the accuracy.
Sensitive skin: an overview
Authors: Berardesca E. , Farage M. , Maibach H.
Published: August 2012

Synopsis

Sensitive skin is a condition of subjective cutaneous hyper‐reactivity to environmental factors. Subjects experiencing this condition report exaggerated reactions when their skin is in contact with cosmetics, soaps and sun screens, and they often report worsening after exposure to dry and cold climate. Although no sign of irritation is commonly detected, itching, burning, stinging and a tight sensation are constantly present. Generally substances that are not commonly considered irritants are involved in this abnormal response.Sensitive skin and subjective irritation are widespread but still far from being completely defined and understood. A correlation between sensitive skin and constitutional anomalies and/or other triggering factors such as occupational skin diseases or chronic exposure to irritants has been hypothesized. Recent findings suggest that higher sensitivity can be due to different mechanisms. Hyper‐reactors may have a thinner stratum corneum with a reduced corneocyte area causing a higher transcutaneous penetration of water‐soluble chemicals. Alterations in vanilloid receptors and changes in neuronal transmission have been described. Monitoring skin parameters such as barrier function, proclivity to irritation, corneocyte size and sensorial transmission can also be useful to identify regional differences in skin sensitivity.
Spitzoid and non‐spitzoid melanoma in children. A prognostic comparative study
Authors: Paradela S. , Fonseca E. , Pita‐Fernández S. , Prieto V.G.
Published: August 2012

Background  Spitzoid melanoma is a rare melanoma subtype often developing in children with unknown biological potential.

Objectives  To compare the clinical and histopathological factors that influence the biological behaviour between spitzoid and non‐spitzoid childhood melanoma, to establish if the spitzoid subset of melanoma has different prognosis than other types of childhood melanomas.

Methods  A comparison of the prognostic significance of clinical and pathological findings between 38 spitzoid (SM) and 99 non‐spitzoid melanomas (N‐SM) in children and teenagers younger than 18 years referred to UT – MD Anderson Cancer Center during the period 1992–2007.

Results  Children with SM were significantly younger than those with N‐SM, had more frequently multiple melanocytic nevi, nodular melanoma subtype with vertical growth phase, high Breslow thickness and mitotic rate, positive sentinel lymph node biopsy and more advanced stage. N‐SM had more often associated nevus. However, the mortality rate in the SM group was lower (5.9%) than in the N‐SM group (12.0%). This study has two major limitations. Small size of both groups does not allow reaching statistically significant differences regarding mortality. Using metastatic potential as an inclusion criterion for SM could result in a sample selection bias of the most aggressive group of SM.

Conclusions  Although SM patients had poorer prognostic factors than N‐SM patients, slightly lower mortality rate was detected in the SM group. This less aggressive behaviour could be due to lower potential for widespread distant metastases than conventional melanomas or younger age of children with SM.
Birhombic flap, a modified bilobed flap, for repair of nasal defect
Authors: Skaria A.M.
Published: August 2012

Background  Reconstruction of longitudinal defects of the lateral nasal alar might be challenging. Reconstruction with a bilobed flap is common for round defects normally the bilobed flap is less suited for longitudinal defects.

Objective  We describe a birhombic flap for longitudinal defect.

Methods  Demonstration of the technique and practical application for this kind of reconstruction.

Results  The bilobed flap is a very useful flap for lateral nasal tip or distal alar reconstruction. We show that a small modification of the flap allows to cover also longitudinal defects on the lateral tip of the nose. As the first lobe movement corresponds more to the rhomboid transposition flap, we prefer to call it birhombic flap.

Conclusion  The birhombic flap has its place in reconstructive surgery. This flap has a specific indication and precise advantages to other repairs in particular to the bilobed flap.
Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of safety and efficacy of miltefosine in antihistamine‐resistant chronic spontaneous urticaria
Authors: Magerl M. , Rother M. , Bieber T. , Biedermann T. , Brasch J. , Dominicus R. , Hunzelmann N. , Jakob T. , Mahler V. , Popp G. , Schäkel K. , Schlingensiepen R. , Schmitt J. , Siebenhaar F. , Simon J.C. , Staubach P. , Wedi B. , Weidner C. , Maurer M.
Published: August 2012

Background  Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), a mast cell‐driven condition, is debilitating, common, and hard to treat. Miltefosine, a lipid raft modulator, can inhibit mast cell responses in vivo.

Objective  To study the safety and efficacy of systemic miltefosine treatment in CSU patients resistant to standard‐dosed antihistamines.

Methods  In this investigator‐initiated multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study, CSU patients were treated for 4 weeks with daily doses of up to 150‐mg miltefosine (n = 47) or placebo (n = 26). Disease activity was assessed using the urticaria activity score. Safety and tolerability of miltefosine were also assessed.

Results  After 4 weeks of treatment, Urticaria Activity Score (UAS7) levels were substantially more reduced in miltefosine‐treated patients (−6.3 vs. −3.5 in placebo‐treated patients; P = 0.05). Also, the number of weals, but not the intensity of pruritus, was significantly reduced in miltefosine‐treated patients vs. placebo‐treated patients (P = 0.02). In general, adverse events were frequent in both groups (miltefosine: 88%, placebo: 65% of patients) but mostly mild to moderate in severity. We did not observe any serious adverse events.

Conclusions  The results of this study indicate that miltefosine is an effective and safe treatment option for CSU patients who do not respond to standard‐dosed antihistamines.
Defining the developmental parameters of temper loss in early childhood: implications for developmental psychopathology
Authors: Wakschlag Lauren S. , Choi Seung W. , Carter Alice S. , Hullsiek Heide , Burns James , McCarthy Kimberly , Leibenluft Ellen , Briggs‐Gowan Margaret J.
Published: August 2012

Background:  Temper modulation problems are both a hallmark of early childhood and a common mental health concern. Thus, characterizing specific behavioral manifestations of temper loss along a dimension from normative misbehaviors to clinically significant problems is an important step toward identifying clinical thresholds.

Methods:  Parent‐reported patterns of temper loss were delineated in a diverse community sample of preschoolers (n = 1,490). A developmentally sensitive questionnaire, the Multidimensional Assessment of Preschool Disruptive Behavior (MAP‐DB), was used to assess temper loss in terms of tantrum features and anger regulation. Specific aims were: (a) document the normative distribution of temper loss in preschoolers from normative misbehaviors to clinically concerning temper loss behaviors, and test for sociodemographic differences; (b) use Item Response Theory (IRT) to model a Temper Loss dimension; and (c) examine associations of temper loss and concurrent emotional and behavioral problems.

Results:  Across sociodemographic subgroups, a unidimensional Temper Loss model fit the data well. Nearly all (83.7%) preschoolers had tantrums sometimes but only 8.6% had daily tantrums. Normative misbehaviors occurred more frequently than clinically concerning temper loss behaviors. Milder behaviors tended to reflect frustration in expectable contexts, whereas clinically concerning problem indicators were unpredictable, prolonged, and/or destructive. In multivariate models, Temper Loss was associated with emotional and behavioral problems.

Conclusions:  Parent reports on a developmentally informed questionnaire, administered to a large and diverse sample, distinguished normative and problematic manifestations of preschool temper loss. A developmental, dimensional approach shows promise for elucidating the boundaries between normative early childhood temper loss and emergent psychopathology.
Compressive Viscoplastic Response of 6082‐T6 and 7075‐T6 Aluminium Alloys Under Wide Range of Strain Rate at Room Temperature: Experiments and Modelling
Authors: Moćko W. , Rodríguez‐Martínez J. A. , Kowalewski Z. L. , Rusinek A.
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  In this work, the viscoplastic behaviour of 6082‐T6 and 7075‐T6 aluminium alloys is examined over a wide range of strain rates. Three different testing techniques were applied to this investigation: low‐rate experiments were performed using a regular servo‐hydraulic testing machine, high‐rate tests were conducted using a split Hopkinson bar apparatus and very‐high‐rate experiments were carried out using a miniaturised direct impact test arrangement. The latter testing set‐up allowed for the characterisation of material flow at strain rates up to . These experimental results showed a sharp increase in the rate sensitivity of the materials once a threshold loading rate of is exceeded. This behaviour may be attributed to the presence of viscous drag on high‐velocity dislocation motion. In addition, the thermo‐viscoplastic behaviour of the 6082‐T6 and 7075‐T6 aluminium alloys was analytically described using the extended Rusinek–Klepaczko model of viscous drag effects. Satisfactory correlation was observed between the experiments and the constitutive model results over the entire range of strain rates studied,
A review of the pharmacology and clinical uses of pimobendan.
Authors: Boyle Kimberly L. , Leech Elizabeth
Published: August 2012

Objective

To review the pharmacology, research developments, and clinical uses of pimobendan

Data Sources

Original research articles and clinical studies from 1984 to August 2011.

Veterinary Data Synthesis

Pimobendan is approved for use in dogs for the treatment of congestive heart failure (CHF) secondary to chronic valvular heart disease (CVHD) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Expert‐based veterinary guidelines recommend the use of pimobendan in the management of acute, hospital‐based therapy for patients with CHF attributable to CVHD.

Conclusions

The use of pimobendan, an inodilator with phosphodiesterase 3 (PDE3) inhibitory and calcium‐sensitizing properties, is regarded as a component of the standard of care in the management of dogs with CHF secondary to both DCM and CVHD. Further studies are warranted to confirm the safety and efficacy of pimobendan for the off‐label use of this drug in asymptomatic CVHD, pulmonary arterial hypertension, asymptomatic myocardial diseases, CHF from all other causes and in cats with CHF.
Retrospective evaluation of vacuum‐assisted peritoneal drainage for the treatment of septic peritonitis in dogs and cats: 8 cases (2003–2010)
Authors: Cioffi Krista M. , Schmiedt Chad W. , Cornell Karen K. , Radlinsky MaryAnn G.
Published: August 2012

Objective

To describe the use of vacuum‐assisted peritoneal drainage (VAPD) in dogs and cats with septic peritonitis.

Design

Retrospective descriptive study.

Setting

University Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

Animals

Six dogs and 2 cats with septic peritonitis.

Interventions

Application ofVAPDafter abdominal exploration.

Measurements

Pre‐ and post‐operative physical and clinicopathologic data, surgical findings, treatment,VAPDfluid production, outcome, and survival are reported.

Main results

Eight nonconsecutive cases of septic peritonitis, consisting of 6 dogs and 2 cats, were treated surgically and hadVAPDapplied post‐operatively. The mean duration of clinical signs prior to surgical intervention was 4 ± 3 days.VAPDtherapy was applied for a mean of 2 ± 1.1 days and collected a median of 27 mL/kg/d of abdominal effusate. The median time in hospital was 5 days and abdominal closure was completed in 5 of the 8 patients. All specimens collected at surgery cultured positive for bacteria, most commonlyEnterococcusspp. The peritoneum of 4 animals was cultured at the time of abdominal closure; 1 was negative and 3 were positive forEscherichia coli,Enterococcusspp. or gram‐positive cocci. Cultures before and after surgery differed in 2 patients. Hypoproteinemia was present in all patients postoperatively. Three patients were considered survivors, all of which were dogs. Five patients died or were euthanized due to cardiopulmonary arrest (n= 3), pyothorax (n= 1), and acute, severe, septic peritonitis (n= 1).

Conclusions

VAPDis available for maintaining abdominal drainage for the treatment of septic peritonitis after surgical intervention; however, similar to open abdominal drainage and closed suction drainage, nosocomial infection and hypoproteinemia remain challenges in the treatment of septic peritonitis.
Benzamil sensitive ion channels contribute to volume regulation in canine chondrocytes
Authors: Lewis R , Feetham CH , Gentles L , Penny J , Tregilgas L , Tohami W , Mobasheri A , Barrett‐Jolley R
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose

Chondrocytes exist within cartilage and serve to maintain the extracellular matrix. It has been postulated that osteoarthritic (OA) chondrocytes lose the ability to regulate their volume, affecting extracellular matrix production. In previous studies, we identified expression of epithelial sodium channels (ENaC) in human chondrocytes, but their function remained unknown. Although ENaC typically has Na+ transport roles, it is also involved in the cell volume regulation of rat hepatocytes. ENaC is a member of the degenerin (Deg) family, and ENaC/Deg‐like channels have a low conductance and high sensitivity to benzamil. In this study, we investigated whether canine chondrocytes express functional ENaC/Deg‐like ion channels and, if so, what their function may be.

Experimental Approach

Canine chondrocytes were harvested from dogs killed for unassociated welfare reasons. We used immunohistochemistry and patch‐clamp electrophysiology to investigate ENaC expression and video microscopy to analyse the effects of pharmacological inhibition of ENaC/Deg on cell volume regulation.

Key Results

Immunofluorescence showed that canine chondrocytes expressed ENaC protein. Single‐channel recordings demonstrated expression of a benzamil‐sensitive Na+ conductance (9 pS), and whole‐cell experiments show this to be approximately 1.5 nS per cell with high selectivity for Na+. Benzamil hyperpolarized chondrocytes by approximately 8 mV with a pD2 8.4. Chondrocyte regulatory volume decrease (RVI) was inhibited by benzamil (pD2 7.5) but persisted when extracellular Na+ ions were replaced by Li+.

Conclusion and Implications

Our data suggest that benzamil inhibits RVI by reducing the influx of Na+ ions through ENaC/Deg‐like ion channels and present ENaC/Deg as a possible target for pharmacological modulation of chondrocyte volume.
Hydrogen sulphide–mediated vasodilatation involves the release of neurotransmitters from sensory nerves in pressurized mesenteric small arteries isolated from rats
Authors: White Benjamin J O , Smith Paul A , Dunn William R
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose

Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) is a gas that has recently been shown to have biological activity. In the majority of blood vessels studied so far, H2S has been shown to cause vasorelaxation, although contractile responses have been reported. In the present study, we have made a pharmacological assessment of the effects of H2S in mesenteric small arteries isolated from rats.

Experimental Approach

Rat mesenteric small arteries were studied using pressure myography. In pressurised arteries, responses were obtained to the H2S donor, sodium hydrogen sulphide (NaHS), in the absence and presence of the NOS inhibitor L‐NAME, raised extracellular potassium, the KATP channel inhibitor glibenclamide, the Cl– channel blockers DIDS, NPPB and A9C, the TRPV1 receptor desensitizing agent, capsaicin, the CGRP antagonist, olcegepant, the TRPV1 channel blocker capsazepine and the TRPA1 channel blocker HC‐030031.

Key Results

NaHS produced a vasodilator response in rat mesenteric small arteries held at 90 mmHg. Responses to NaHS were not reproducible. Neither, glibenclamide nor, L‐NAME inhibited responses to NaHS. DIDS abolished vasodilator responses to NaHS, but these were unaffected by the chloride channel blockers, NPPB and A9C. Responses to NaHS were attenuated after capsaicin pre‐treatment, by a CGRP receptor antagonist and an inhibitor of TRPA1 channels.

Conclusions and Implications

In small arteries isolated from the rat mesentery, NaHS caused a vasodilatation. This response was not reproducible in vitro, since it was mediated by the release of sensory neurotransmitters in a capsaicin‐like action. This release was mediated by a H2S‐induced activation of TRPA1 channels.
Intra‐ and Interracial Best Friendships During Middle School: Links to Social and Emotional Well‐being
Authors: McGill Rebecca Kang , Way Niobe , Hughes Diane
Published: August 2012

This study examined patterns of intra‐ and interracial best friendships during middle school and their associations with social and emotional well‐being. We hypothesized that intraracial friendships would be beneficial for racial or ethnic minority youth because such relationships provide protection and solidarity in a discriminatory society. Results revealed that most youth had only intraracial best friends during middle school, but 38% had at least one interracial best friend. Associations between interracial best friendships and well‐being varied by racial group; Black and Asian American youth with only interracial best friends reported lower emotional well‐being than those with only intraracial best friends. Additionally, intraracial best friendships were associated with higher conflict than interracial best friendships, especially for Black and Latino youth.
Peer Victimization and Internalizing Symptoms From Adolescence Into Young Adulthood: Building Strength Through Emotional Support
Authors: Yeung Thompson Rachel S. , Leadbeater Bonnie J.
Published: August 2012

This longitudinal study investigated how changes in peer victimization were associated with changes in internalizing symptoms among 662 adolescents across a 4‐year period. The moderating effects of initial levels of father, mother, and friend emotional support on this association were also examined. Gender and age group differences (early adolescent group aged 12–15 years; late adolescent group aged 16–18 years) were tested. Increases in physical and relational victimization were related to increases in internalizing symptoms. Friend emotional support was more protective in reducing internalizing symptoms for adolescent males than adolescent females in both the early and late adolescent groups. Gender differences also moderated the effects of mother and father emotional support.
Measuring the processes of change for increasing blood donation in black adults
Authors: Amoyal Nicole R. , Robbins Mark L. , Paiva Andrea L. , Burditt Caitlin , Kessler Debra , Shaz Beth H.
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: Blacks have significantly lower blood donation rates than whites. Many views, experiences, and behaviors associated with blood donation are unique to black culture. Evidence suggests that culturally tailored health promotion programs help with increasing black blood donation. To be effective, tailored interventions should be based on valid and reliable measures. The Transtheoretical Model's (TTM) Processes of Change (POC) construct provides an assessment of participants' covert and overt activities and experiences in blood donation. This study describes development and validation of POC for increasing blood donation tailored to blacks.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Cross‐sectional measure development with online survey dissemination was used in 566 blacks in the Northeastern United States. Factor analytic structural modeling procedures were used to examine validity of the POC measure. Blood donation POC were examined in participants representing a range of blood donation history and intentions (nondonors, sometimes donors, regular donors) based on an established algorithm.

RESULTS: Confirmatory analyses replicated the theoretically expected structure of POC scales which is a 10‐factor, fully correlated best‐fit model. Expected POC patterns by Stages of Change based on theoretical and empirical predictions were confirmed. The range of effect sizes for 10 POC were η2 = 0.04 to 0.25, indicating that TTM POC are strong strategies in blood donation decision making for blacks and can be applied to interventions to increase blood donation for a minority population.

CONCLUSION: POC measure was internally and externally valid in a sample of blacks. Interventions can utilize the POC measure to guide stage‐matched interventions to encourage use of relevant experiential and behavioral strategies to increase blood donation.
Biology of Factor XIII and clinical manifestations of Factor XIII deficiency
Authors: Levy Jerrold H. , Greenberg Charles
Published: August 2012

Factor XIII (FXIII) is activated by thrombin to form a transglutaminase (FXIIIa) that stabilizes clot formation by the cross‐linking of fibrin monomers and antifibrinolytic proteins. Although rare, FXIII deficiency is characterized by variable bleeding manifestations depending on the magnitude of the deficiency. A congenital FXIII deficiency with levels less than 1% can be detected in children who present with prolonged bleeding from the umbilical stump as well as protracted bleeding after trauma. An acquired FXIII deficiency may occur in a number of diseases or clinical situations where FXIII levels and/or its activity are decreased. Patients may also develop a relative deficiency in FXIII as a result of hemorrhage or dilutional changes from transfusions during surgery or trauma and are at increased risk for postoperative bleeding. Genetic studies have identified a wide range of mutations that affect the activity of the FXIII protein but in lieu of molecular genetic analyses, FXIII deficiency can be identified by specific diagnostic assays that measure either the transglutaminase activity of the protein or the levels of the protein and its individual subunits. Replacement therapy has also been shown to increase FXIII levels and reduce bleeding symptoms in patients with congenital FXIII deficiency. This review presents recent findings on the biology of FXIII and the clinical manifestations observed among patients with congenital and acquired FXIII deficiencies.
Thrombocytopenia and platelet transfusion in UK critical care: a multicenter observational study
Authors: Stanworth Simon J. , Walsh Timothy S. , Prescott Robin J. , Lee Robert J. , Watson Douglas M. , Wyncoll Duncan L.A. ,   Intensive Care Study of Coagulopathy (ISOC) investigators
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: Platelet (PLT) transfusions are widely used, but few studies have described patterns of use in critical care.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: As part of a prospective multicenter observational study of all sequentially admitted patients to UK general intensive care units (ICUs) over 8 weeks, daily data were collected throughout admission on frequency of thrombocytopenia and use of PLT transfusions, in addition to clinical outcomes, including bleeding.

RESULTS: There were 1923 admissions recruited across 29 ICUs for analysis (96.6% of all eligible admissions). The period prevalences of severe thrombocytopenia (<50 × 109/L) for the entire ICU stay were 12.4% (234/1881) and 13.7% (263/1914) when the 24 hours before admission was also included. A total of 35.4% of patients who experienced severe thrombocytopenia died in the ICU. A total of 169 patients (9% of study population) received 534 units of transfused PLTs (median number of units per patient admission was 2; interquartile range, 1‐3; maximum, 38). Pretransfusion PLT counts were more than 50 × 109 for 40% of PLT transfusions overall, and even when no clinically significant bleeding was recorded on the day of transfusion, the lowest recorded PLT count was more than 50 × 109 for 34% of transfusions. There was evidence of only modest increments in PLT count.

CONCLUSION: Thrombocytopenia is common in critical care, but there is wide variation in PLT transfusion use. Patients commonly received PLT transfusions on days without clinically significant hemorrhage. The high prevalence of thrombocytopenia in the critically ill population and inconsistent patterns of PLT transfusions indicate the importance of improving the evidence base for PLT use.
Relation of Kinetic Energy to Contact Wounds of the Head by Centerfire Rifles and Shotgun Slugs
Authors: Harruff Richard C. , Park Jennifer , Smelser Brian J.
Published: August 2012

Wounds of high‐energy centerfire rifles and shotguns represent distinctive injuries of forensic importance. Previous studies of contact wounds have shown variability in the potential of these weapons to produce bursting wounds of the head. The present study analyzed contact head wounds owing to 26 centerfire rifles and nine shotgun slugs and compared them with respect to weapon, ammunition, entry wound site, and projectile kinetic energy. The bursting effect, defined for this study as disruption of at least 50% of the head, occurred in 25/35 of cases and was related to kinetic energy. Bursting was associated with energies <2700 ft‐lbs in 12/22 cases and energies >2700 ft‐lbs in 13/13 cases. The volume of gunpowder gas injected into the wound was considered as contributing to the bursting phenomenon. There was no relation of bursting to the specific entrance wound site, type of ammunition, or projectile fragmentation.
A Novel Forged Image Detection Method Using the Characteristics of Interpolation
Authors: Hwang Min‐Gu , Har Dong‐Hwan
Published: August 2012

Development of digital image‐editing programs has enabled us to be widely exposed to forged digital images surrounding us. Such forged images have been dispersed through the Internet, newspaper articles, and magazines, and in particular, the information contained in these unverified images happened to be regarded as true. As a result, the forged images provided wrong information for individuals and society, thus sometimes creating social issues. In order to solve such problems, this study was aimed to suggest the methods of identifying the veracity of forged images. In this way, it suggested re‐interpolation algorithm. Namely, the study re‐interpolated in identical arbitrary values both the interpolated and un‐interpolated regions based on the interpolation used a lot in forged, confirmed discrete fourier transform (DFT) characteristics of these two regions, and embodied a detection map for the final forged images, using the subtraction value between two regions in DFT characteristics.
The outcome of 9 years of consecutive patch testing with 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane and 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate
Authors: Engfeldt Malin , Goossens An , Isaksson Marléne , Zimerson Erik , Bruze Magnus
Published: August 2012

Background. Two outbreaks of allergic contact dermatitis caused by isocyanates at two companies in southern Sweden initiated a research project focusing on contact allergy to isocyanates. Within the project, there was an interest in determining how often contact allergy to the most common isocyanate, diphenylmethane‐4,4′‐diisocyanate (4,4′‐MDI), occurred.

Objectives. To determine and compare the occurrence of contact allergy to 4,4′‐MDI, its corresponding amine 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane (4,4′‐MDA), and polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate (PMDI) in a Swedish and a Belgian study population.

Patients and method. The study population consisted of 6190 consecutively patch tested dermatitis patients: 5690 patients from Malmö, Sweden, and 500 patients from Leuven, Belgium. Patch test results were analysed and compared.

Results. None of the Belgian patients reacted positively to 4,4′‐MDI, but 5 Swedish patients did. Contact allergy to 4,4′‐MDA was more common in the Belgian patients than in the Swedish patients: 3.6% and 0.9%, respectively. This could possibly be explained by the fact that the prevalence of p‐phenylenediamine allergy was higher in the Belgian population.

Conclusions. The prevalence of contact allergy to 4,4′‐MDI, 4,4′‐MDA and PMDI is not high enough to justify their inclusion in any baseline series. Isocyanate allergic individuals should be detected by aimed testing with an isocyanate series and work materials.
Negative pressure therapy as palliative treatment for a colonic fistula
Authors: Ruiz‐Lopez Manuel , Titos Alberto , Gonzalez‐Poveda Ivan , Carrasco Joaquin , Toval Jose Antonio , Mera Santiago , Santoyo Julio
Published: August 2012

Colonic fistulas in an open wound are always a challenge for colorectal surgeons, and this report provides a technique for the appropriate management of these cases. We communicate the use of a negative pressure dressing therapy as part of the palliative care for a patient following the development of an enterocutaneous fistula. The use of this therapy allowed us to keep the patient clean and comfortable during the last few days of his life.