bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and organization of an interventional pulmonology department
Authors: COLT Henri G.
Published: July 2010

Development and organization of an interventional pulmonology department requires careful consideration of many elements, including personnel, equipment, logistics, procedures performed, practice management, institutional vision and biases, practice setting, continued medical education, risk management, communication and fiscal responsibility. In this paper, a patient‐centric approach is used to begin addressing these issues and present the strengths, weaknesses, advantages and disadvantages of an interventional pulmonology department.
THE INSTITUTIONALIZATION OF EU AGENCIES: AGENCIES AS ‘MINI COMMISSIONS’
Authors: SCHOUT ADRIAAN , PEREYRA FABIAN
Published: July 2010

A stream of reviews that take stock of EU governance trends shows that the EU's governance agenda produces mixed results. EU agencies are part of the EU's search for new governance mechanisms. They have not proven to be a break with EU policy‐making processes – underpinning administrative stability rather than reform. This article explores the institutionalization of EU agencies. Using the case of the EU's human resources (HR) policy, it concludes that administrative details are important in order to understand the development of EU agencies turning into institutions. The influence of the EU's institutional environment on their operations is so strong that they must operate as ‘mini Commissions'. This tight control hinders their institutionalization.
Indirect interception actions by blind and sighted perceivers: The role of modality and tau
Authors: VERNAT JEAN‐PHILIPPE , GORDON MICHAEL S.
Published: July 2010

Vernat, J.‐P. & Gordon, M.S. (2011). Indirect interception actions by blind and sighted perceivers: The role of modality and tau. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology 52, 83–92.

Acoustic and visual interceptive actions were tested in this research by comparing the performance of blind, blind‐folded, and sighted individuals. An indirect interception method was employed in which the participant had to roll an intercepting ball towards a moving target on a perpendicular track. The interception task used conditions that varied the speed, rolling distance, and target size/intensity. While performance was highly consistent and accurate for visual participants in this research, the blind and blind‐folded participants demonstrated much more performance variability in response to changes in speed and distance. Manipulation of target size and intensity did not affect judgments, however performance tended to be more accurate at shorter distances and with faster target speeds. Results from this research are discussed in terms of their implications for tau in acoustic interception, and the use of spatial and temporal cues for guiding interceptive actions.
Sense and Sensibility: Cohabitation in ‘Cohabitation Land’
Authors: Syltevik Liv Johanne
Published: July 2010

In many European countries, cohabitation has become a prevailing practice. Norway is one of the countries leading this trend; cohabitation before marriage is the norm and a majority of couples become parents before they (eventually) marry. This article explores the meaning of cohabitation for Norwegian couples today through a qualitative analysis of interviews with 17 urban, heterosexual couples. As the trend towards increased cohabitation has emerged so strongly in Norway, such analysis may provide important insights into the possible implications of more widespread cohabitation in Europe. Why is cohabitation so attractive to young Norwegians today? Why do most couples postpone marriage until after they have children? The main finding is that cohabitation in this context is understood as acting according to important norms about intimate relationships. Cohabitation is a way of dealing with the complexity of attitudes towards love and relationships in late modernity. The option of living together outside marriage makes it possible for couples to be sensible (not committing themselves ‘too much’) as well as living together when they want to develop a relationship and are ‘in love’.
FORGIVENESS, COMMEMORATION, AND RESTORATIVE JUSTICE: THE ROLE OF MORAL EMOTIONS
Authors: BLUSTEIN JEFFREY
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Forgiveness of wrongdoing in response to public apology and amends making seems, on the face of it, to leave little room for the continued commemoration of wrongdoing. This rests on a misunderstanding of forgiveness, however, and we can explain why there need be no incompatibility between them. To do this, I emphasize the role of what I call nonangry negative moral emotions in constituting memories of wrongdoing. Memories so constituted can persist after forgiveness and have important moral functions, and commemorations can elicit these emotions to preserve memories of this sort. Moreover, commemorations can be a restorative justice practice that promotes reconciliation, but only on condition that the memories they preserve are constituted by nonangry negative, not retributive, emotions.
Do Corporate Governance Motives Drive Hedge Fund and Private Equity Fund Activities?
Authors: Achleitner Ann‐Kristin , Betzer André , Gider Jasmin
Published: July 2010

We document empirical evidence that both hedge fund (HF) and private equity fund (PE) investments are driven by corporate governance improvements, but address different types of agency conflicts. Whereas HFs focus on firms without a controlling shareholder, in particular family shareholders, PEs invest in firms with low managerial ownership. Both appear to address free cash flow problems differently. Aiming at increasing dividends, HFs tend to use commitment devices that can be implemented over a short horizon. PEs are inclined to longer‐term strategies: they target firms that are particularly well suited for leverage increases because of low expected financial distress costs.
EFNS guidelines for diagnosis, therapy and prevention of Wernicke encephalopathy
Authors: Galvin R. , Bråthen G. , Ivashynka A. , Hillbom M. , Tanasescu R. , Leone M. A.
Published: July 2010

Background:  Although Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is a preventable and treatable disease it still often remains undiagnosed during life.

Objectives:  To create practical guidelines for diagnosis, management and prevention of the disease.

Methods:  We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, Cochrane Library.

Conclusions and recommendations:   

 The clinical diagnosis of WE should take into account the different presentations of clinical signs between alcoholics and non alcoholics (Recommendation Level C); although prevalence is higher in alcoholics, WE should be suspected in all clinical conditions which could lead to thiamine deficiency (good practice point – GPP).

 The clinical diagnosis of WE in alcoholics requires two of the following four signs; (i) dietary deficiencies (ii) eye signs, (iii) cerebellar dysfunction, and (iv) either an altered mental state or mild memory impairment (Level B).

 Total thiamine in blood sample should be measured immediately before its administration (GPP).

 MRI should be used to support the diagnosis of acute WE both in alcoholics and non alcoholics (Level B).

 Thiamine is indicated for the treatment of suspected or manifest WE. It should be given, before any carbohydrate, 200 mg thrice daily, preferably intravenously (Level C).

 The overall safety of thiamine is very good (Level B).

 After bariatric surgery we recommend follow‐up of thiamine status for at least 6 months (Level B) and parenteral thiamine supplementation (GPP).

 Parenteral thiamine should be given to all at‐risk subjects admitted to the Emergency Room (GPP).

 Patients dying from symptoms suggesting WE should have an autopsy (GPP).
Serum measurement of interleukin‐31 (IL‐31) in paediatric atopic dermatitis: elevated levels correlate with severity scoring
Authors: Ezzat MHM , Hasan ZE , Shaheen KYA
Published: July 2010

Background  Interleukin‐31 (IL‐31) is a novel T‐helper‐lymphocyte‐derived cytokine that plays an important role in human T‐cell‐mediated skin diseases. When overexpressed in transgenic mice, IL‐31 induces severe pruritus resembling eczema in humans. Serum IL‐31 was previously found overexpressed in adults with atopic dermatitis (AD). The novelty of this study is the use of a pediatric patient group as well as comparison of IL‐31 levels during flare and quiescence.

Objective  This case‐controlled longitudinal study was designed to determine the levels of IL‐31 in serum of AD children and its associations in relation to disease activity and severity.

Methods  Sera were obtained from 50 AD children and 40 healthy volunteers. IL‐31 levels were measured using a sandwich ELISA. All AD patients were followed up and re‐sampled for serum IL‐31 after clinical remission. Serum IL‐31 levels were correlated with AD disease activity and severity variables.

Results  Serum IL‐31 levels were significantly higher whether during AD flare [median, 1600; mean (SD) = 1457.8 ± 770.4 pg/mL] or quiescence (1040; 958.7 ± 419.5 pg/mL), than those in controls (220; 197.3 ± 91.9 pg/mL). Serum IL‐31 levels were significantly higher in the high disease severity group compared with the moderate or low severity group. Moreover, serum IL‐31 levels correlated positively with the calculated severity scores (LSS, SSS and SCORAD index).

Conclusion  The results of this study confirm the importance of IL‐31 in AD pathophysiology. Serum IL‐31 level is an objective reliable marker of AD severity in children. It may represent a novel target for antipruritic drug development.
Efficacy, safety and tolerability of green tea catechins in the treatment of external anogenital warts: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tzellos TG , Sardeli C , Lallas A , Papazisis G , Chourdakis M , Kouvelas D
Published: July 2010

Background  External anogenital warts (EGWs) are non‐malignant skin tumours caused by human papillomavirus. They are one of the fastest growing sexually transmitted diseases. Current treatments are unsatisfactory. Green tea sinecatechin Polyphenon E ointment is a botanical extract from green tea leaves exhibiting anti‐oxidant, anti‐viral and anti‐tumour properties.

Objective  The aim of this study was to integrate valid information and provide basis for rational decision making regarding efficacy and safety of green tea extracts in the treatment of EGWs.

Methods  A systematic search in electronic databases was conducted using specific key terms. Main search was performed independently by two reviewers. The accumulated relevant literature was subsequently systematically reviewed and a meta‐analysis was conducted.

Results  Three randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled studies evaluating efficacy and safety of Polyphenon E 15% and 10% in the treatment of warts were included in the systematic review and meta‐analysis. A total of 660 men and 587 women were enrolled. Regarding primary outcome, both Polyphenon E 15% and 10% demonstrated significantly higher likelihood of complete clearance of baseline and baseline and new warts compared with controls. No significant heterogeneity was detected. Recurrence rates were very low. Commonest local skin sign was erythema and local skin symptom was itching.

Conclusions  Efficacy of Polyphenon 15% and 10%, at least for the primary endpoint, is clearly indicated. Polyphenon E treatment exhibits very low recurrence rates and appears to have a rather favourable safety and tolerability profile. Recommendations for future studies should include evaluation of the efficacy of green tea catechins in the treatment of internal anogenital warts and direct comparison with its principal comparator, imiquimod.
Investigation of cytokine levels and their association with SCORAD index in adults with acute atopic dermatitis
Authors: Vakirlis E , Lazaridou E , Tzellos TG , Gerou S , Chatzidimitriou D , Ioannides D
Published: July 2010

Background  Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with increasing frequency over the last decades, especially in adults. Cytokines orchestrate atopic skin inflammation.

Objectives  The aim of this study was to compare serum levels of cytokines in adult patients with acute AD (AD1) with other groups of AD patients and controls and investigate the possible association between such cytokines and disease severity.

Methods  We measured cytokine levels using flow cytometry in 21 adult patients with acute AD, 12 adults with chronic AD, 10 children with acute AD and 10 healthy adults.

Results  Flow cytometry analysis of cytokines revealed that interleukin 10 (IL‐10), IL‐6, interferon γ (IFN‐γ) and IL‐4 levels were significantly decreased in AD1 group compared with controls, whereas IL‐2 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) did not differ. Comparison of AD1 group with adults chronic phase group showed that IgE, eosinophil and IL‐2 levels remained unaltered, whereas IL‐10, IL‐6, IFN‐γ, IL‐4 and TNF were significantly decreased. SCORAD and IgE levels were significantly increased, IL‐10, IL‐6 and IFN‐γ were decreased and TNF, IL‐2, IL‐4 and eosinophil levels remained unchanged in AD1 group compared with children acute phase group. Within AD1 group correlation analysis revealed that IgE and TNF levels were significantly associated with AD severity. Coefficient of determination analysis revealed that TNF and IgE levels could explain 49.14% and 35.28% of the variance of SCORAD.

Conclusions  These data indicate that serum IgE and TNF levels correlate with AD severity and that serum cytokines are downregulated in AD1 group. Further studies are clearly needed to elucidate cytokines’ role in adults with AD.
Reducing Potentially Avoidable Complications in Patients with Chronic Diseases: The Prometheus Payment Approach
Authors: De Brantes Francois , Rastogi Amita , Painter Michael
Published: July 2010

Objective (or Study Question). To determine whether a new payment model can reduce current incidence of potentially avoidable complications (PACs) in patients with a chronic illness.

Data Sources/Study Setting. A claims database of 3.5 million commercially insured members under age 65.

Study Design. We analyzed the database using the Prometheus Payment model's analytical software for six chronic conditions to quantify total costs, proportion spent on PACs, and their variability across the United States. We conducted a literature review to determine the feasibility of reducing PACs. We estimated the financial impact on a prototypical practice if that practice received payments based on the Prometheus Payment model.

Principal Findings. We find that (1) PACs consume an average of 28.6 percent of costs for the six chronic conditions studied and vary significantly; (2) reducing PACs to the second decile level would save U.S.$116.7 million in this population; (3) current literature suggests that practices in certain settings could decrease PACs; and (4) using the Prometheus model could create a large potential incentive for a prototypical practice to reduce PACs.

Conclusions. By extrapolating these findings we conclude that costs might be reduced through payment reform efforts. A full extrapolation of these results, while speculative, suggests that total costs associated to the six chronic conditions studied could decrease by 3.8 percent.
Benefits of introducing universal umbilical cord blood gas and lactate analysis into an obstetric unit
Authors: WHITE Christopher R.H. , DOHERTY Dorota A. , HENDERSON Jennifer J. , KOHAN Rolland , NEWNHAM John P. , PENNELL Craig E.
Published: July 2010

Background:  Current evidence suggests that umbilical arterial pH analysis provides the most sensitive reflection of birth asphyxia. However, there’s debate whether umbilical cord blood gas analysis (UC‐BGA) should be conducted on some or all deliveries.

Aim:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of introducing universal UC‐BGA at delivery on perinatal outcome.

Methods:  An observational study of all deliveries ≥20 weeks’ gestation at a tertiary obstetric unit between January 2003 and December 2006. Paired UC‐BGA was performed on 97% of deliveries (n = 19,646). Univariate and adjusted analysis assessed inter‐year UC‐BGA differences and the likelihood of metabolic acidosis and nursery admission.

Results:  There was a progressive improvement in umbilical artery pH, pO2, pCO2, base excess and lactate values in univariate and adjusted analyses (P < 0.001). There was a significant reduction in the newborns with an arterial pH <7.10 (OR = 0.71; 95%CI 0.53–0.95) and lactate >6.1 mmol/L (OR = 0.37; 95%CI 0.30–0.46). Utilising population specific 5th and 95th percentiles, there was a reduction in newborns with arterial pH less than 5th percentile (pH 7.12; OR = 0.75; 95%CI 0.59–0.96) and lactate levels greater than 95th percentile (6.7 mmol/L; OR = 0.37; 95%CI 0.29–0.49). There was a reduction in term (OR = 0.65; 95%CI 0.54–0.78), and overall (OR = 0.75; 95%CI 0.64–0.87) nursery admissions. These improved perinatal outcomes were independent of intervention rates.

Conclusions:  These data suggest that introduction of universal UC‐BGA may result in improved perinatal outcomes, which were observed to be independent of obstetric intervention. We suggest that these improvements might be attributed to provision of biochemical data relating to fetal acid‐base status at delivery influencing intrapartum care in subsequent cases.
Randomised prospective study of abdominal wall closure in patients with gynaecological cancer
Authors: BERRETTA Roberto , ROLLA Martino , PATRELLI Tito Silvio , PIANTELLI Giovanni , MERISIO Carla , MELPIGNANO Mauro , NARDELLI Giovanni B. , MODENA Alberto Bacchi
Published: July 2010

Background:  Median laparotomy is the most common approach to the abdominopelvic cavity in patients with gynaecological tumours.

Aims:  The primary endpoint of the study was to evaluate the onset of incisional hernia. The secondary endpoint was to evaluate the onset of infection, wound dehiscence, wound infection, and scar pain during the post‐operative period.

Methods:  A total of 191 patients were eligible for the study. They were divided into three groups. Group A underwent en bloc closure of the peritoneum and fascia with Premilene® suture, Group B en bloc closure of the peritoneum and fascia with Polydioxanone suture, and Group C separate closure of the peritoneum and fascia with single stitches of Ethibond suture. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Software Package for Social Sciences 12.0.

Results:  Group A and Group B comprised 63 patients, and Group C included 65 patients. The three groups proved homogeneous on statistical analysis (P > 0.05). The statistical analysis did not reveal significant differences between the different suture types and techniques with respect to the incidence of incisional hernia (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:  In our study, the incidence of incisional hernia was 8%. Randomised patients were homogeneous for sample size and risk factors. No significant differences were found between suture types or techniques. Currently, there is no suture material or technique that can be considered superior to others. When possible, we believe that the best way to prevent incisional hernia is to preserve the integrity of the abdominal wall using minimally invasive techniques.
Regeneration ofSalix arbusculaandSalix lapponumwithin a Large Mammal Exclosure: The Impacts of Microsite and Herbivory
Authors: Shaw Rosalind F. , Iason Glenn R. , Pakeman Robin J. , Young Mark R.
Published: July 2010

Over‐grazing or browsing by large herbivores may result in the loss of individual plant species or entire plant communities. Restoration schemes often involve exclusion of large mammals, but the resulting changes in vegetation may alter other important ecological processes such as regeneration, via changes in microsite availability for seed germination or increases in populations of seedling predators. Working within a large fenced area from which large mammals were excluded, we experimentally tested the effects of microsite, small herbivores, and their interactions on post‐dispersal seed and early seedling mortality of one nationally scarce (Salix arbuscula) and one nationally rare (S. lapponum) species of montane willow. Seeds were sown in three different microsites: natural vegetation, mown vegetation (mimicking grazed sward), and bare ground. Small exclosures and slug pellets were used to examine the effects of small mammal and slug predation, respectively. Survival of seedlings was monitored during the summer following planting. The presence of bare ground, rather than the absence of herbivores, was of over‐riding importance for early seedling survival and establishment. Protecting seedlings from small mammals made no difference to the levels of survival; however, protecting seedlings from slugs (Arionspp.) resulted in approximately 45% of seedlings surviving until the end of the summer compared to only 30% when seedlings were available to slugs. Although excluding large herbivores may increase seed production of existing individuals, the impacts of changes to plant communities on processes such as regeneration need to be considered if restoration projects are to be fully successful.
Gender Differences in Alcohol Treatment: An Analysis of Outcome From the COMBINE Study
Authors: Greenfield Shelly F. , Pettinati Helen M. , O’Malley Stephanie , Randall Patrick K. , Randall Carrie L.
Published: July 2010

Background:  Relatively few studies have examined gender differences in the effectiveness of specific behavioral or pharmacologic treatment of alcohol dependence. The aim of this study is to assess whether there were gender differences in treatment outcomes for specific behavioral and medication treatments singly or in combination by conducting a secondary analysis of public access data from the national, multisite NIAAA‐sponsored COMBINE study.

Methods:  The COMBINE study investigated alcohol treatment among 8 groups of patients (378 women, 848 men) who received medical management (MM) with 16 weeks of placebo, naltrexone (100 mg/day), acamprosate (3 g/day), or their combination with or without a specialist‐delivered combined behavioral intervention. We examined efficacy measures separately for men and women, followed by an overall analysis that included gender and its interaction with treatment condition in the analyses. These analyses were performed to confirm whether the findings reported in the parent trial were also relevant to women, and to more closely examine secondary outcome variables that were not analyzed previously for gender effects.

Results:  Compared to men, women reported a later age of onset of alcohol dependence by approximately 3 years, were significantly less likely to have had previous alcohol treatment, and drank fewer drinks per drinking day. Otherwise, there were no baseline gender differences in drinking measures. Outcome analyses of 2 primary (percent days abstinent and time to first heavy drinking day) and 2 secondary (good clinical response and percent heavy drinking days) drinking measures yielded the same overall pattern in each gender as that observed in the parent COMBINE study report. That is, only the naltrexone by behavioral intervention interaction reached or approached significance in women as well as in men. There was a naltrexone main effect that was significant in both men and women in reduction in alcohol craving scores with naltrexone‐treated subjects reporting lower craving than placebo‐treated subjects.

Conclusions:  This gender‐focused analysis found that alcohol‐dependent women responded to naltrexone with COMBINE’s Medical Management, similar to the alcohol‐dependent men, on a wide range of outcome measures. These results suggest that clinicians can feel comfortable prescribing naltrexone for alcohol dependence in both men and women. In this study, it is also notable that fewer women than men reported receiving any alcohol treatment prior to entry into the COMBINE study. Of note, women tend to go to primary health care more frequently than to specialty substance abuse programs for treatment, and so the benefit we confirm for women of the naltrexone and MM combination has practical implications for treating alcohol‐dependent women.
Prevalence of hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus among blood donors at a tertiary care hospital in India: a five‐year study
Authors: Meena Monika , Jindal Tarun , Hazarika Anjali
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND:Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are important transfusion‐transmissible infections. This study was performed to assess the prevalence of HBV and HCV seropositivity among blood donors at a tertiary care hospital–based blood bank in India.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:The blood donation records over 5 years (2005‐2009) were reviewed, retrospectively, for the prevalence and yearly trends of HBV and HCV seropositivity.

RESULTS:A total of 94,716 donations were received. The overall number of HBV‐seropositive donations was 1353 and that for HCV was 537, with the prevalence rates of 1.43% for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and 0.57% for HCV. The seropositivity rate was higher in the replacement donors compared to the voluntary donors. The annual rates showed decreasing trends in case of HBsAg, but in case of HCV, there was a linear increase.

CONCLUSIONS:Our study raises serious concerns regarding the HBV and HCV prevalence in our country. Although HBV showed decreasing trends, it cannot be relied upon because the donors were screened only for HBsAg. HCV is clearly on the rise. Stringent measures need to be taken on urgent basis including dissemination of information, strict screening of blood, inclusion of antibody to hepatitis B core antigen and other sensitive markers to the screening protocol, and better donor recruitment.
Representation in remote sensing classifications of Aboriginal landscape descriptions
Authors: SIMMS ÉLIZABETH L.
Published: July 2010

Thematic maps derived from remote sensing must be relevant to their users. The accuracy of classification rubrics closely relates to the understanding a person has of a feature's physical characteristics, use and cultural meaning. Geographical concepts incorporated in traditional ecological knowledge are learned through experience of the land and communicated orally. This article examines the cultural dimension of remote sensing‐derived information. A series of Anishinaabe terms are put in the context of the remote sensing‐based classification systems developed for the US National Land Cover Database (NLCD) 2001 and the Atlas of Canada. The NLCD 2001 better represents Anishinaabe descriptions of geographical features. Its simplicity makes it more inclusive, particularly with the classification of exposed soils, forest types and wetlands. This classification scheme uses nominal information and has no climate‐ or region‐specific categories. The results suggest that a foundation exists for Aboriginal people to benefit from remote sensing technologies from which to extract information compatible with their knowledge of the landscape.
Spirotontonia taiwanica n. sp. (Ciliophora: Oligotrichida) from the Coastal Waters of Northeastern Taiwan: Morphology and Nuclear Small Subunit rDNA Sequence
Authors: TSAI SHENG‐FANG , CHEN JUN‐YU , CHIANG KUO‐PING
Published: July 2010

ABSTRACT. The marine oligotrichous ciliate Spirotontonia taiwanica n. sp. isolated from the coastal waters of northeastern Taiwan is reported, using live observation, protargol preparations and molecular data. The new species differs from the most similar, known congener Spirotontonia turbinata in the following features: (1) lower number of buccal membranelles (11–13 vs. 13–17); (2) higher number of whorls of girdle kinety (2.5 vs. 1.5); (3) lower number of macronuclear nodules (20–31 vs. 28–40); (4) larger cell size (80–104 × 40–72 vs. 44–75 × 29–56 μm); (5) larger anterior cell end to buccal vertex (50 vs. 33 μm); (6) larger ratio of cell length to cell width (1.74 vs. 1.38); (7) the different beginning of the girdle kinety (posterior to the buccal vertex vs. left of the buccal zone portion); and (8) the disappearance of the L‐shaped argyrophilic structures in the last half whorl and occasionally the first 1–10 dikinetids (i.e. yes vs. no). The molecular data also reveal two distinct species, deviating by 2% or 33% base pairs.
Increase of ZASC1 gene copy number in recurrent oral carcinoma
Authors: Chiang W‐F , Hung P‐S , Liu S‐Y , Yuan T‐C , Chang K‐W , Chen Y‐P , Liu Y‐C , Lin S‐C
Published: July 2010

Oral Diseases (2010) 17, 53–59

Backgrounds:  The chromosome 3q26 locus is a hotspot region carrying oncogenes that frequently altered in neoplasms. ZASC1 is a zinc finger protein transcription factor localized on 3q26. Our previous study showed the frequent amplification of 3q26, including the ZASC1 gene, in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). This study investigated the copy number changes of ZASC1 gene from primary to recurrent OSCC and the functions of ZASC1 in OSCC cells.

Materials and methods:  A total of 27 OSCC patients with primary and recurrent tumors were examined for ZASC1 and TERC copy number changes using Quantitative PCR analysis. Exogenous expression and knockdown of ZASC1 were carried out to specify the oncogenic potential of ZASC1 in OSCC cells.

Results:  A ZASC1 copy number that has increased from primary to recurrent tumor counterparts in tissue pairs suggested the importance of ZASC1 in tumor progression. The increase of ZASC1 gene copy number in recurrent tumors was associated with the consumption of betel quid in patients. OSCC cells expressing ZASC1‐FLAG fusion protein showed increased proliferation. After the knockdown of endogenous ZASC1 expression using small interference RNA, the growth and colony formation of SAS OSCC cells decreased.

Conclusions:  The findings support the hypothesis that ZASC1 localized on 3q26 contributes to the recurrence of OSCC.
Antimicrobial peptide hCAP‐18/LL‐37 protein and mRNA expressions in different periodontal diseases
Authors: Türkoğlu O , Kandiloğlu G , Berdeli A , Emingil G , Atilla G
Published: July 2010

Oral Diseases (2010) 17, 60–67

Objective:  To investigate the levels of antimicrobial peptide hCAP‐18/LL‐37 protein and mRNA expression in gingival tissues with different periodontal disease.

Materials and methods:  Ten patients with generalized aggressive periodontitis, 10 patients with chronic periodontitis, and 10 healthy controls were included in this study. Periodontal parameters including probing depth, clinical attachment level, plaque index, and papilla bleeding index were assessed in study subjects. hCAP‐18/LL‐37 mRNA analysis by RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry were performed in 19 samples provided enough RNA in terms of concentration and integrity.

Results:  This study demonstrated that hCAP‐18/LL‐37 was a product of neutrophils. Tissue samples of chronic periodontitis patients had significantly higher immunostaining of hCAP‐18/LL‐37 on neutrophils infiltrating in both epithelium and connective tissue compared with controls. hCAP‐18/LL‐37 mRNA expression levels in tissue samples of chronic periodontitis patients seemed to be upregulated compared with controls. While two generalized aggressive periodontitis patients showed downregulated hCAP‐18/LL‐37 mRNA expression levels, one generalized aggressive periodontitis patient showed slightly increased hCAP‐18/LL‐37 mRNA level compared with controls.

Conclusions:  hCAP‐18/LL‐37 has an important role in innate response during periodontal inflammation. Local deficiency in hCAP‐18/LL‐37 might be a confounding effect in the pathogenesis of generalized aggressive periodontitis.
Comprehensive behavioural study of GluR4 knockout mice: implication in cognitive function
Authors: Sagata N. , Iwaki A. , Aramaki T. , Takao K. , Kura S. , Tsuzuki T. , Kawakami R. , Ito I. , Kitamura T. , Sugiyama H. , Miyakawa T. , Fukumaki Y.
Published: July 2010

Fast excitatory transmission in the mammalian central nervous system is mediated by AMPA‐type glutamate receptors. The tetrameric AMPA receptor complexes are composed of four subunits, GluR1–4. The GluR4 subunit is highly expressed in the cerebellum and the early postnatal hippocampus and is thought to be involved in synaptic plasticity and the development of functional neural circuitry through the recruitment of other AMPA receptor subunits. Previously, we reported an association of the human GluR4 gene (GRIA4) with schizophrenia. To examine the role of the GluR4 subunit in the higher brain function, we generated GluR4 knockout mice and conducted electrophysiological and behavioural analyses. The mutant mice showed normal long‐term potentiation (LTP) in the CA1 region of the hippocampus. The GluR4 knockout mice showed mildly improved spatial working memory in the T‐maze test. Although the retention of spatial reference memory was intact in the mutant mice, the acquisition of spatial reference memory was impaired in the Barnes circular maze test. The GluR4 knockout mice showed impaired prepulse inhibition. These results suggest the involvement of the GluR4 subunit in cognitive function.
Clinical and immunopathological spectrum of paraneoplastic pemphigus
Authors: Zimmermann Jutta , Bahmer Friedrich , Rose Christian , Zillikens Detlef , Schmidt Enno
Published: July 2010

Background: Paraneoplastic pemphigus (PNP) is a rare life‐threatening autoimmune bullous disorder. The clinical picture is often polymorphous and blisters may be absent. Autoantibodies are directed against several target antigens, including plakins and desmogleins. PNP has a high mortality rate that does not directly depend on the malignancy of the neoplasm. No generally accepted diagnostic criteria for PNP have been defined.

Patients and Methods: On the basis of four selected PNP patients and the relevant literature, the spectrum of clinical and immunopathological findings as well as pathogenesis and treatment options of PNP are presented.

Results: In addition to a neoplasm, severe stomatitis and the presence of autoantibodies against periplakin and envoplakin are characteristic for PNP. Based on the presented data, diagnostic criteria are proposed.

Conclusions: Knowledge of the polymorphous clinical picture and the complex autoantibody response is essential for an early diagnosis of PNP which has implications for both prognosis and rapid initiation of treatment.
Vectors for gene therapy of skin diseases
Authors: Pfützner Wolfgang
Published: July 2010

The success of gene therapy mainly depends on the gene vector (GV) responsible for the efficient transport of genetic information. The qualities of a GV have a profound influence on the method of application, the efficiency of gene transfer in the target tissue, the amount and persistence of gene expression and the potential side effects and safety risks. Clinical gene therapy studies over the past 20 years have contributed to the development and testing of different GV systems, some of which also show great potential for the treatment of skin diseases. In this review the structures, methods of application, characteristics, clinical uses and possibilities for optimization of these GV will be discussed with regard to their cutaneous applications.
Subcutaneous mycoses: chromoblastomycosis, sporotrichosis and mycetoma
Authors: Bonifaz Alexandro , Vázquez‐González Denisse , Perusquía‐Ortiz Ana María
Published: July 2010

Subcutaneous mycoses are common in subtropical and tropical regions of the world. They are rarely observed in Europe. These mycoses are heterogeneous, but all are caused by penetrating trauma of the skin. Most cases in Europe are observed in returning travelers, aid workers, archaeologists and immigrants. Therefore, a careful, thorough history is essential in order to reach a proper diagnosis. We provide up‐to‐date epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic data on the three most important imported subcutaneous mycoses in Europe: chromoblastomycosis, sporotrichosis and mycetoma.
Health Care Professionals’ Attitudes and Compliance to Clinical Practice Guidelines to Prevent Falls and Fall Injuries
Authors: Stenberg Marie , Wann‐Hansson Christine
Published: July 2010

Background: Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) aimed at preventing falls and fall injuries have been shown to be effective in acute care hospitals. However, although CPGs are systematically developed and evidence‐based tools, there has been a problem with their implementation in clinical practice.

Aim: To describe influences on health care professionals’ attitudes to CPGs for preventing falls and fall injuries.

Methods: A qualitative approach was chosen and five focus group discussions were conducted, which included physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. The transcribed texts were analyzed using manifest and latent content analysis.

Findings: Two main categories emerged: experiencing a course of events and influence of social factors. Experiencing a course of event included incidence of falls and fall injuries followed by negative consequences, which revealed benefits of using a CPG. Influence of social factors for implementation and compliance with the CPG was described as community obligations and organizational and individual resources.

Conclusions: The findings confirm the complex process of implementation and compliance of CPGs for fall prevention. A relation between experiences of high incidence of falls with negative consequences and a positive attitude and compliance to CPGs appeared. To assure compliance and a positive attitude requires an obvious benefit of the CPG in reducing falls. Factors to overcome barriers to implementation and compliance seem to be a supportive leadership, systematic evaluations of the CPG outcome, and the facilitator role.
Identifying Nursing Concepts: Are We Similar?
Authors: Falan Sharie L.
Published: July 2010

PURPOSE.  The purpose of this article was to define and describe the fundamental aspects of similarity with application to the use of nursing terminologies.

DATA SOURCES.  Data were obtained from Google, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsychINFO, and PubMed using the keywords “similarity views,”“similarity,”“concepts and categorization,” and other published sources.

DATA SYNTHESIS.  Three prominent similarity views were compared, contrasted, and applied to the use of nursing diagnoses.

CONCLUSIONS.  Each view has intentions (requirements) that guide the categorization of information to concepts and influence naming of nursing concepts.

IMPLICATIONS.  By understanding similarity, nurse educators and technology designers can influence how nursing concepts are represented.
Evaluation of the Nursing Process Used at a Brazilian Teaching Hospital
Authors: De Moraes Lopes Maria Helena Baena , Higa Rosângela , Dos Reis Maria José , De Oliveira Neila Regina , Christóforo Fátima Filomena Mafra
Published: July 2010

PURPOSE.  To evaluate how the nursing process has been registered at a Brazilian teaching hospital.

METHODS.  Descriptive and retrospective study of 68 medical records.

FINDINGS.  The data collection of history was more frequent on the admission day. The documentation of physical exam was prioritized. Sometimes there were records of nursing interventions but not of nursing diagnoses.

CONCLUSIONS.  It was found some failures in the record of some steps of the nursing process. Although all steps had been used, they were not carried out consistently.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE.  Some aspects deserve to be considered to improve the use and registration of all steps of the nursing process as to develop specific protocols, redesign the formulary of data record with careful and equal consideration of all steps, and empower all members of the nursing staff to implement the nursing process more effectively.

OBJETIVO.  Avaliar como o processo de enfermagem foi registrado em um hospital de ensino Brasileiro.

MÉTODOS.  Estudo descritivo e retrospectivo de 68 prontuários.

DADOS.  A coleta de dados do histórico foi mais freqüente no primeiro dia de internação. A documentação do exame físico foi priorizada. Às vezes havia registro de intervenções de enfermagem, mas não de diagnósticos de enfermagem.

CONCLUSÕES.  Foram encontradas falhas no registro de algumas etapas do processo de enfermagem. Embora todos os passos tenham sido usados, não foram realizados de forma consistente.

IMPLICAÇÕES PARA A PRÁTICA DE ENFERMAGEM.  Alguns aspectos devem ser considerados para melhorar o uso e registro de todas as etapas do processo de enfermagem, como desenvolver protocolos específicos, reformular o formulário de registro de dados com uma cuidadosa e igual consideração de todas as etapas, e capacitar todos os membros da equipe de enfermagem para implementar o processo de enfermagem de forma mais eficaz.
Introduction to Structural Equation Modeling: Issues and Practical Considerations
Authors: Lei Pui‐Wa , Wu Qiong
Published: July 2010

Structural equation modeling (SEM) is a versatile statistical modeling tool. Its estimation techniques, modeling capacities, and breadth of applications are expanding rapidly. This module introduces some common terminologies. General steps of SEM are discussed along with important considerations in each step. Simple examples are provided to illustrate some of the ideas for beginners. In addition, several popular specialized SEM software programs are briefly discussed with regard to their features and availability. The intent of this module is to focus on foundational issues to inform readers of the potentials as well as the limitations of SEM. Interested readers are encouraged to consult additional references for advanced model types and more application examples.
Eucoptocnemis tischendorfi (Püngeler) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae: Noctuinae): New record for Iran with description of female of Brachygalea miskoi Ronkay (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae: Oncocnemidinae)
Authors: SHIRVANI Asghar , SHOGHALI Mohammad Ali
Published: July 2010

A noctuid species, Eucoptocnemis tischendorfi (Püngeler, 1915) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is first reported for the fauna of Iran and the female of Brachygalea miskoi Ronkay, 1997 is first described. Adults including genitalia of both species are illustrated.
Fitness traits of insecticide resistant and susceptible strains of tea mosquito bug Helopeltis theivora Waterhouse (Heteroptera: Miridae)
Authors: ROY Somnath , MUKHOPADHYAY Ananda , GURUSUBRAMANIAN Guruswami
Published: July 2010

We compared the biological traits of insecticide resistant and susceptible field populations of tea mosquito bug Helopeltis theivora Waterhouse. The insecticide resistant population of the conventional Tea Estate “Chuapara” of the Dooars, Jalpaiguri, differed significantly from the susceptible strain of the organic Tea Estate “Makibari” of Darjeeling. Both these tea plantation areas are located in the northern part of West Bengal, India. Adverse changes in biological and developmental traits were observed mainly in: (i) reduction in oviposition period; (ii) fecundity; and (iii) prolongation of nymphal and total developmental period. However, all other parameters such as pre‐ and post oviposition periods, egg incubation period, hatchability and adult longevity were not significantly different. These results clearly demonstrated that only certain fitness components in the resistant strains appear to be adaptively changed and lowered.
Molecular cloning and expression profiles of calreticulin gene from the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella
Authors: KIM Rye Jin , OH Seung Han , NOH Mi Young , JO Yong Hun , KIM Seongon , BANG In Seok , LEE Yong Seok , KIM Iksoo , HAN Yeon Soo
Published: July 2010

Calreticulin (CRT) plays pivotal roles in Ca2+ homeostasis, molecular chaperoning, infection, inflammation and innate immunity. In an attempt to study the involvement of CRT in innate immunity, the full‐length cDNA of calreticulin (PxCRT) was cloned from the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella. It consists of 1674 bp (excluding poly‐A tail) with a longest open reading frame (ORF) of 1197 bp encoding 398 amino acids. In silico analysis of PxCRT ORF reveals that it has various repeat motifs and endoplasmic reticulum retention signal found in all the calreticulin proteins. As expected, high amino acid sequence identities were found from other CRTs identified from Bombyx mori (87%), Galleria mellonella (87%), Apis mellifera (74%), Anopheles gambiae (74%), Tribolium castaneum (73%), Culex quinquefasciatus (73%), Rhodnius prolixus (72%), Nasonia vitripennis (71%), Drosophila melanogaster (71%) and Haemaphysalis qinghaiensis (68%). During development, P. xylostella expressed PxCRT predominantly in the pupal stage. In addition, spatial expression pattern analysis indicates that PxCRT was highly expressed in the silk gland. PxCRT mRNA, furthermore, was strongly induced 3 to 6 h after laminarin treatment, suggesting that PxCRT appears to be involved in immune responses and also plays an important role in the silk gland.
Ultrastructural Alterations of Mitochondria in Pre‐apoptotic and Apoptotic Hepatocytes of TNFα‐treated Galactosamine‐sensitized Micea
Authors: ANGERMÜLLER S. , SCHÜMANN J. , FAHIMI H. D. , TIEGS G.
Published: July 2010

The electron microscopical studies presented here show that characteristic morphological alterations in mitochondria are a very early hallmark of the hepatocellular apoptotic program. Before chromatin condensation occurs, the outer mitochondrial membrane is focally disrupted and the inner membrane protrudes through this gap forming a hernia. The demonstration of cytochrome oxidase in mitochondria revealed a very strong activity in pre‐apoptotic and apoptotic cells as well as in apoptotic bodies.
Coenzyme Q10 Can in Some Circumstances Block Apoptosis, and This Effect Is Mediated through Mitochondria
Authors: KAGAN TERRI , DAVIS CLAUDETTE , LIN LIN , ZAKERI ZAHRA
Published: July 2010

The mitochondrial component coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10b) Has been used for many years as a Dietary supplement intended to promote good health by trapping free radicals, thus preventing lipid peroxidation and DNA damage. We have tested its use as a generic anti‐apoptotic compound and have found that its ability to protect against apoptosis varies depending on both cell type and mode of cell death induction. We have further established that this protection may be mediated by its effect on mitochondrial function and viability. We provide additional evidence that CoQ10's protective effect on mitochondrial membrane potnetial does not always result in altered mitochondrial enzyme activity and neither does it guarantee survival. These observations open the way for further investigations into the mechanisms involved in mitochondrial control of apoptosis.
Developmental Regulation of Induced and Programmed Cell Death in Xenopus Embryos
Authors: HENSEY CARMEL , GAUTIER JEAN
Published: July 2010

We have analyzed the role of cell death during early xenopus development and have identified two distinct types of cell death programs during the period between fertilization and the tadpole stage. One is a maternal cell death program that is activated at the onset of gastrulation following damage to the pre‐midblastula transition embryo, resulting in the death of non‐viable cells. The activation of this cell death program at a specific time during development is a maternally programmed event under the control of a developmental timer set at fertilization, and does not depend on the type of stress applied, on cell cycle progression, or de novo protein synthesis. Subsequently, a second program corresponding to programmed cell death is initiated as part of the normal development of the embryo. Programmed cell death starts at the onset of gastrulation and we have analysed its spatio‐temporal patterns by a wholemount in situ DNA end labeling technique (the TUNEL protocol).