bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization and longitudinal monitoring of melanoma growth in ret‐transgenic mice using a single‐sequence MRI protocol
Authors: Kerl Hans U. , Boll Hanne , Ramacher Marcel , Heilmann Melanie , Groden Christoph , Kramer Martin , Umansky Viktor , Brockmann Marc A.
Published: August 2012

Spontaneous melanoma models in transgenic mice are increasingly used in preclinical research as they most closely match the progression of melanoma in humans. While optical inspection only allows analysis of tumors located on the skin, the accurate measurement and growth of subcutaneous tumors have not been adequately assessed. To improve the measurement accuracy of melanoma tumors, we used a fast single‐sequence MRI protocol at 9.4 Tesla for longitudinal characterization of a ret‐transgenic mouse model. Repeated MRI (average acquisition time 30 min per animal) of the trunk (excluding head and distal limbs) in six siblings revealed an increase in the mean total tumor volume (TTV) from 102.0 ± 80.5 mm3 at 35 days of age to 434.8 ± 154.9 mm3 by 77 days. The main tumor load was located within the pelvis (>40%), followed by the proximal hind limbs and groins (>30%). The smallest detectable tumor measured 0.07 mm3. Inter‐rater reliability between a radiologist and a veterinarian analysing MRI data was 0.993 for TTV and 0.840 for number of tumors (both p < 0.001). We thus conclude that because of the high variance of TTV of same‐aged mice, MRI should be used (i) to establish treatment groups matched for TTV and (ii) for longitudinal examination of the TTV in mice over the course of treatments.
SB365 inhibits angiogenesis and induces apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma through modulation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Hong Sang‐Won , Jung Kyung Hee , Lee Hee‐Seung , Choi Myung‐Joo , Son Mi Kwon , Zheng Hong‐Mei , Hong Soon‐Sun
Published: August 2012

Identification of small molecules that safely inhibit cancer progression is critical for cancer therapeutics. Saponins exhibit cytostatic and cytotoxic activity against various cancer cells, but the mechanism is not well understood. Here, we investigated whether saponin D (designated SB365), an active component isolated from Pulsatilla koreana, could inhibit the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and considered its mechanism. SB365 strongly suppressed the growth of HCC cells in a dose‐dependent manner and induced apoptosis by increasing the proportion of sub G1 apoptotic cells from 8% to 21% through induction of expression of Bax and cleaved caspase‐3. In addition, SB365 exhibited potent anti‐angiogenic activity and decreased the expression of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) and vascular endothelial growth factor, a key molecule for angiogenesis. Furthermore, SB365 suppressed the tube formation and migration of HUVEC, as well as in vivo neovascularization in a mouse Matrigel plug assay. In vivo study showed that SB365 significantly inhibited tumor growth in an HCC xenograft model, inducing apoptosis by increasing the expression of the cleaved caspase‐3 and DNA fragmentation. The expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor and CD34 in the tumor tissue were decreased by SB365 treatment. In examining its mechanism, SB365 was found to effectively suppress the phosphorylation of PI3K downstream factors, such as Akt, mTOR and p70S6K both in vitro and in vivo. Our study demonstrates that SB365 not only induces apoptosis but also inhibits cell growth and angiogenesis through modulation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in human HCC. We suggest that SB365 may be a new chemotherapeutic candidate against HCC.
von Willebrand's disease: a report from a meeting in the Åland islands
Authors: Berntorp E. , Peake I. , Budde U. , Laffan M. , Montgomery R. , Windyga J. , Goodeve A. , Petrini P. , von Depka M. , Miesbach W. , Lillicrap D. , Federici A. B. , Lassila R. , White G.
Published: August 2012

von Willebrand's disease (VWD) is probably the most common bleeding disorder, with some studies indicating that up to 1% of the population may have the condition. Over recent years interest in VWD has fallen compared to that of haemophilia, partly the result of focus on blood‐borne diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. Now the time has come to revisit VWD, and in view of this some 60 international physicians with clinical and scientific interest in VWD met over 4 days in 2010 in the Åland islands to discuss state‐of‐the‐art issues in the disease. The Åland islands are where Erik von Willebrand had first observed a bleeding disorder in a number of members of a family from Föglö, and 2010 was also the 140th anniversary of his birth. This report summarizes the main papers presented at the symposium; topics ranged from genetics and biochemistry through to classification of VWD, pharmacokinetics and laboratory assays used in the diagnosis of the disease, inhibitors, treatment guidelines in different age groups including the elderly who often have comorbid conditions that present challenges, and prophylaxis. Other topics included managing surgeries in patients with VWD and the role of FVIII in VWF replacement, a controversial subject.
Physicochemical and functional properties of whole and defatted meals from Mexican (Cucurbita pepo) pumpkin seeds
Authors: Rodríguez‐Miranda Jesús , Hernández‐Santos Betsabe , Herman‐Lara Erasmo , Vivar‐Vera Maria A. , Carmona‐García Roselis , Gómez‐Aldapa Carlos A. , Martínez‐Sánchez Cecilia E.
Published: August 2012

Chemical composition and some functional and thermal properties in whole pumpkin seed meal (WPSM) and defatted pumpkin seed meal (DPSM) were determined. The DPSM exhibited higher water absorption capacity (3 g H2O per g sample), water solubility capacity (8.75%), oil absorption capacity (2.73 g oil per g sample), emulsifying capacity (61.71%), foaming capacity (51.92%) and gelling capacity (12% w/v) than the WPSM. The DPSM also had better swelling power (3.33% at 60 °C, rising to 4.31% at 90 °C), higher phase transition temperatures (T0 = 80.04 °C, Tp = 86.50 °C and Tf = 93.20 °C) and a higher phase transition energy (0.93 J g−1). However, the WPSM had higher bulk density (0.57 g cm−3) and better foam stability (from 30 to 120 min). Micrographs showed defatting to cause microstructural changes in meal starch granules and proteins. Its high protein content makes the DPSM a potential alternative input in the food industry.
How to understand species’ niches and range dynamics: a demographic research agenda for biogeography
Authors: Schurr Frank M. , Pagel Jörn , Cabral Juliano Sarmento , Groeneveld Jürgen , Bykova Olga , O’Hara Robert B. , Hartig Florian , Kissling W. Daniel , Linder H. Peter , Midgley Guy F. , Schröder Boris , Singer Alexander , Zimmermann Niklaus E.
Published: August 2012

Range dynamics causes mismatches between a species’ geographical distribution and the set of suitable environments in which population growth is positive (the Hutchinsonian niche). This is because source–sink population dynamics cause species to occupy unsuitable environments, and because environmental change creates non‐equilibrium situations in which species may be absent from suitable environments (due to migration limitation) or present in unsuitable environments that were previously suitable (due to time‐delayed extinction). Because correlative species distribution models do not account for these processes, they are likely to produce biased niche estimates and biased forecasts of future range dynamics. Recently developed dynamic range models (DRMs) overcome this problem: they statistically estimate both range dynamics and the underlying environmental response of demographic rates from species distribution data. This process‐based statistical approach qualitatively advances biogeographical analyses. Yet, the application of DRMs to a broad range of species and study systems requires substantial research efforts in statistical modelling, empirical data collection and ecological theory. Here we review current and potential contributions of these fields to a demographic understanding of niches and range dynamics. Our review serves to formulate a demographic research agenda that entails: (1) advances in incorporating process‐based models of demographic responses and range dynamics into a statistical framework, (2) systematic collection of data on temporal changes in distribution and abundance and on the response of demographic rates to environmental variation, and (3) improved theoretical understanding of the scaling of demographic rates and the dynamics of spatially coupled populations. This demographic research agenda is challenging but necessary for improved comprehension and quantification of niches and range dynamics. It also forms the basis for understanding how niches and range dynamics are shaped by evolutionary dynamics and biotic interactions. Ultimately, the demographic research agenda should lead to deeper integration of biogeography with empirical and theoretical ecology.
Observing pain management practice on a medical unit following changes arising from an action research study
Authors: Gregory Julie , Waterman Heather
Published: August 2012

Aim.  To describe pain assessment practice within a medical unit, to identify factors that may affect the assessment of pain and evaluate changes in practice.

Background.  Pain is a problem for patients in all areas of a hospital, but its assessment and management on medical units had not been investigated. An initial assessment of practice found that pain was not consistently assessed and managed on the unit. A variety of activities have been employed during an action research study to change pain management practice.

Method.  Naturalistic unstructured participant observation of nurses and structured patient interviews were conducted.

Results.  The need to communicate with many people led to interruptions, multi‐tasking and practical problems were observed which appeared to affect the provision of nursing care, in particular, the administration of medications. These factors also prevented a comprehensive assessment of pain, although the assessment of pain intensity appeared to have increased.

Discussion.  The constant activity and interruptions observed may make it difficult for patients to discuss their experience of pain in detail. These accepted, every day and taken‐for‐granted aspects of nursing observed appeared to reduce opportunities for comprehensive pain assessment.

Conclusion.  Pain assessment is one of a number of nursing activities, obtaining a pain score appears to have become routine practice. Nursing takes place in a complex environment, which may disrupt the provision of nursing care and impede communication.

Relevance to practice.  To increase nurses awareness of the complexity of every day practice, the numerous tasks required, interruptions to the provision of care and the resultant effect on pain assessment and management. They need to then identify and reflect on these factors prior to attempting to change their practice.
Validity of a questionnaire for the semi‐quantitative evaluation of dietary intake of hospitalised patients compared to weighed records
Authors: Scognamiglio U. , Salvia A. , Paolucci S. , Garbagnati F. , Caltagirone C. , Musicco M.
Published: August 2012

Background

Malnutrition in hospitalised patients is often underestimated. The present study aimed to evaluate the validity of a questionnaire for the semi‐quantitative evaluation of food intake compared to weighed records in patients who were hospitalised for the rehabilitation of neurological disorders.

Methods

Food intake at breakfast, lunch and dinner was evaluated in 319 in‐patients, by weighing the meals and the residuals, and using a semi‐quantitative questionnaire, during five consecutive days. The questionnaire represented, for each offered food, the pictures of the nonconsumed quantities. The consumption of each food was determined by weighing foods that were served and the residuals after the meal. As a measure of validity of the questionnaire, the agreement over chance (kappa statistic) between the questionnaire and the weight was calculated. Considering the weight as the gold standard, the sensitivity and specificity of the questionnaire in detecting patients who consumed <50% or 75% of the meals was calculated.

Results

The agreement between the two measures was satisfactory (κ ≥ 0.70) or almost satisfactory (0.60 < κ < 0.70) for most of the foods, with the exception of fruit and the first course at dinner. The sensitivity and specificity of the questionnaire in detecting consumers of <50% or 75% of the offered foods were always >80%, except for bread and first course, as well as fruit at dinner.

Conclusions

The present study shows that this semi‐quantitative questionnaire on food consumption reproduces with sufficient precision the measures obtained by weighing. The questionnaire appears also to be a valid and suitable instrument for the identification of patients with poor food intake in a neurorehabilitation hospital.
Confronting Goffman: how can mental health nurses effectively challenge stigma? A critical review of the literature
Authors: BATES L. , STICKLEY T.
Published: August 2012

Accessible summary

Stigma is well researched as a phenomenon within mental health services and has a number of theoretical concepts which attempt to explain it.

It is clear that there is a degree of stigma demonstrated towards service users, whether consciously or unconsciously by healthcare professionals.

This paper critically evaluates the nature and processes which underpin the perpetuation of stigma within the mental health system and those working in it.

By doing this, it contributes to an improved understanding of the situation facing nurses who aim to reduce stigma and to encourage a new approach to reducing its impact upon the lives of people with mental health problems.

This paper critically reviews the issues and questions surrounding the ways in which mental health nurses can best address stigma in the 21st century. It begins with a brief discussion of the nature and definition of the term stigma and explores some of the theoretical basis behind it before drawing out potential flaws in the theory and using this as the basis for an exploration of the way in which stigma is formed and shaped by public and professional attitudes. The discussion then turns to the underlying principles of contemporary mental health legislation and evaluates the tensions between various strands of UK legislation, the way in which risk is perceived and managed by practitioners, and whether risk‐averse practice perpetuates stigma. This leads onto the question of how mental health law itself might contribute to the perpetuation of stigma by removing power and responsibility from the hands of service users. Finally, the discussion concludes with some suggestion about how a future change in the principles of mental health law might alter the way in which mental health problems are perceived and allow nurses to practice in a way that is less focussed on risk management and places more emphasis on recovery
The effect of flow limitation on the cardiorespiratory response to arousal from sleep under controlled conditions of chemostimulation in healthy older adults
Authors: GOFF ELIZABETH A. , NICHOLAS CHRISTIAN L. , KLEIMAN JAN , SPEAR OWEN , MORRELL MARY J. , TRINDER JOHN
Published: August 2012

The influence of flow limitation on the magnitude of the cardiorespiratory response to arousal from sleep is of interest in older people, because they experience considerable flow limitation and frequent arousals from sleep. We studied older flow‐limiting subjects, testing the hypothesis that the cardiorespiratory activation response would be larger when arousal occurred during flow limitation, compared to no flow limitation, and chemical stimuli were controlled. In 11 older adults [mean ± standard deviation (SD) age: 68 ± 5 years] ventilation was stabilized using continuous positive airway pressure, and flow limitation was induced by dialling down the pressure. Partial pressure of end‐tidal carbon dioxide (PetCO2) was maintained by titration of the inspired CO2 and hyperoxia was maintained using 40% O2 balanced with nitrogen. Flow limitation at the time of arousal did not augment cardiovascular activation response (heart rate P = 0.7; systolic blood pressure P = 0.6; diastolic blood pressure P = 0.3), whereas ventilation was greater following arousals during flow limitation compared to no flow limitation (P < 0.001). The pre–post‐arousal differences in ventilation reflected significant pre‐arousal suppression (due to flow limitation) plus post‐arousal activation. In summary, the cardiovascular response to arousal from sleep is not influenced by flow limitation at the time of arousal, when chemical stimuli are controlled in older adults. This finding may contribute to the decreased cardiovascular burden associated with sleep‐disordered breathing reported in older adults, although our data do not exclude the possibility that flow limitation in the presence of mild hypoxic hypercapnia could increase the cardiovascular response to arousal.
HCV RNA decline in chronic HCV genotype 2 and 3 during standard of care treatment according to IL28B polymorphism
Authors: Stenkvist J. , Sönnerborg A. , Weiland O.
Published: August 2012

The IL28 gene is highly associated with sustained viral response (SVR) in patients infected with genotype 1 after standard of care (SOC) treatment with peg‐IFN and ribavirin. It is also associated with a steeper first phase HCV RNA decline during treatment. In genotype 2 and 3 infections, these correlations are less obvious. We studied the IL28B association to rapid viral response (RVR), SVR, first and second phase HCV RNA decline during treatment in 100 HCV mono‐infected and 13 HCV/HIV co‐infected patients. We found a significantly higher mean baseline HCV RNA level in IL28B SNP CC than non‐CC mono‐infected patients, 6.99 vs 6.30 log10 IU/mL (P = 0.02), and a significantly larger median 1st phase decline in patients with CC than non‐CC genotype, 2.03 vs 1.37 log10 IU/mL, respectively. The overall SVR rate in HCV mono‐infected patients was 87% vs 77% in HCV/HIV co‐infected patients, with no correlation to IL28B SNP. In mono‐infected patients with RVR, the SVR rate was high and independent of IL28B genotype. In mono‐infected patients who failed to achieve RVR who had IL28B CC and non‐CC genotype, 64% and 67% achieved SVR, respectively. In genotype 2 and 3 infected patients, the 1st phase HCV RNA decline was steeper in patients with IL28B CC vs non‐CC genotype during SOC treatment. This did not translate into a higher frequency of RVR or SVR. Hence, the clinical relevance of pretreatment analysis of IL28B polymorphisms in genotype 2 and 3 infected patients can be questioned in patients with expected high SVR rate.
Meropenem inhibits D,D‐carboxypeptidase activity in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Arora Kriti , Lloyd John R. , Lee Ill Y. , Nair Vinod , Fischer Elizabeth , Boshoff Helena I. M. , Barry Clifton E.
Published: August 2012

Carbapenems such as meropenem are being investigated for their potential therapeutic utility against highly drug‐resistant tuberculosis. These β‐lactams target the transpeptidases that introduce interpeptide cross‐links into bacterial peptidoglycan thereby controlling rigidity of the bacterial envelope. Treatment of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) with the β‐lactamase inhibitor clavulanate together with meropenem resulted in rapid, polar, cell lysis releasing cytoplasmic contents. In
Mtb it has been previously demonstrated that 3‐3 cross‐linkages [involving two diaminopimelate (DAP) molecules] predominate over 4‐3 cross‐linkages (involving one DAP and one D‐alanine) in stationary‐phase cells. We purified and analysed peptidoglycan from Mtb and found that 3‐3 cross‐linkages predominate throughout all growth phases and the ratio of 4‐3/3‐3 linkages does not vary significantly under any growth condition. Meropenem treatment was accompanied by a dramatic accumulation of unlinked pentapeptide stems with no change in the tetrapeptide pools, suggesting that meropenem inhibits both a D,D‐carboxypeptidase and an L,D‐transpeptidase. We purified a candidate D,D‐carboxypeptidase DacB2 and showed that meropenem indeed directly inhibits this enzyme by forming a stable adduct at the enzyme active site. These results suggest that the rapid lysis of meropenem‐treated cells is the result of synergistically inhibiting the transpeptidases that introduce 3,3‐cross‐links while simultaneously limiting the pool of available substrates available for cross‐linking.
The significance of guttation in the secondary spread of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis in tomato greenhouses
Authors: Sharabani G. , Manulis‐Sasson S. , Borenstein M. , Shulhani R. , Lofthouse M. , Chalupowicz L. , Shtienberg D.
Published: August 2012

Bacterial canker, caused by Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis (Cmm), can spread in commercial tomato greenhouses causing epidemics. Results of greenhouse experiments with Cmm‐contaminated tools demonstrated disease spread for only a limited distance (<4 plants) from infected plants. However, touching symptomless infected plants bearing guttation droplets prior to touching nearby plants spread the pathogen over longer distances within rows (>22 plants). The pathogen was exuded in large numbers in the guttation fluid of infected plants; its presence in the guttation fluid was not influenced by the inoculation procedures, leaf age or the volume of the guttation droplets. Population size of Cmm and the incidence of leaflets with epiphytic bacteria were significantly higher in plants placed in a guttation‐induction chamber than in those kept in a growth chamber with high humidity, suggesting exudation through guttation contributed to the formation of epiphytic populations on leaflets. This new knowledge may provide a simple and environmentally friendly means for decreasing the spread of the disease by avoiding contact with plants during periods when they bear guttation droplets.
Grapevine trunk diseases: complex and still poorly understood
Authors: Bertsch C. , Ramírez‐Suero M. , Magnin‐Robert M. , Larignon P. , Chong J. , Abou‐Mansour E. , Spagnolo A. , Clément C. , Fontaine F.
Published: August 2012

This review presents an overview of eutypa dieback, esca and botryosphaeria dieback, the predominant grapevine trunk diseases worldwide. It covers their symptomatologies in the trunk, leaves and berries; the characteristics of the different fungal species associated with them; and host–pathogen interactions. Here, the host–pathogen relationship is defined at the cytological, physiological and molecular levels. Currently available experimental tools for studying these diseases, both in vitro and in the field, are discussed. Finally, a progress report on their control, which, since the ban of sodium arsenite, comprises chemical, biological and/or sanitation methods, is presented.
Understanding banana bunchy top disease epidemiology in Burundi for an enhanced and integrated management approach
Authors: Niyongere C. , Losenge T. , Ateka E. M. , Ntukamazina N. , Ndayiragije P. , Simbare A. , Cimpaye P. , Nintije P. , Lepoint P. , Blomme G.
Published: August 2012

This study on the epidemiology of banana bunchy top disease (BBTD) was carried out in the context of small‐scale farms in Burundi for an integrated management approach. Banana trials were established in farmers’ fields comparing different plot locations, while spatial and seasonal occurrence of aphid vectors was evaluated at three different altitudes. In addition, serological tests were performed on banana leaf samples to confirm the presence and titre of the virus. The results showed that BBTD incidence varied among banana cultivars and locations. Nine months after plot establishment, BBTD incidence ranged from 21·8% to 56·4% in plots within affected fields, while a range of 0–12·3% was reported in plots located between 5 and 30 m away from affected banana fields. Aphid numbers were highest in the dry season. These aphids were able to acquire and transmit the virus irrespective of altitude. A mean incubation period of 21 and 84 days was observed at low (780 m a.s.l.) and high (2090 m a.s.l.) altitude, respectively. Thus, a holistic approach, taking into account banana cultivar, plot location, disease‐free planting material and regular field sanitation, should be promoted for long‐term BBTD management.
Infliximab for steroid refractory or dependent gastrointestinal acute graft‐versus‐host disease in children after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Yang Jun , Cheuk Daniel Ka Leung , Ha Shau Yin , Chiang Alan Kwok Shing , Lee Tsz Leung , Ho Marco Hok Kung , Chan Godfrey Chi Fung
Published: August 2012

Yang J, Cheuk DKL, Ha SY, Chiang AKS, Lee TL, Ho MHK, Chan GCF. Infliximab for steroid refractory or dependent gastrointestinal acute graft‐versus‐host disease in children after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Abstract:  aGVHD of the GI tract is common after allogeneic HSCT. Corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment. Recent data suggest infliximab might be beneficial for steroid refractory aGVHD. We reviewed our experience in 10 pediatric patients who developed severe steroid refractory aGVHD (stage 3, n = 6; stage 4, n = 4), after an allogeneic matched unrelated HSCT for various hematological diseases (leukemia, n = 7; thalassemia, n = 3). The median age was 9.5 yr (range, 0.8–18.5 yr). All patients received 10 mg/kg infliximab weekly for 3–4 doses. Eight patients had CR and two had partial response. None of the patients developed therapy‐related adverse effects. All patients developed infections subsequently, which may or may not be related to infliximab. Five patients developed chronic GVHD (cGVHD) (four severe, one mild). Six patients died at 66–1451 days post‐transplant, from infection (n = 3), aGVHD (n = 1), lung cGVHD (n = 1), or idiopathic pneumonia (n = 1). Four patients were alive at 238–924 days post‐transplant, all of whom had an increase in BMI by six months post‐transplant. In conclusion, infliximab is well tolerated and appears effective in children with steroid refractory or dependent GI aGVHD. Infection is common and mortality remains high.
Characteristics of diabetes after pediatric liver transplant
Authors: Greig Fenella , Rapaport Robert , Klein Genna , Akler Gidon , Annunziato Rachel , Miloh Tamir , Arnon Ronen , Florman Sander , Kerkar Nanda
Published: August 2012

Greig F, Rapaport R, Klein G, Akler G, Annunziato R, Miloh T, Arnon R, Florman S, Kerkar N. Characteristics of diabetes after pediatric liver transplant.

Abstract:  Studies of DALT in pediatric recipients describe incidence and risk factors, but diagnostic criteria varied. This study reports characteristics and course of pediatric DALT by established diabetes criteria. Retrospective chart review of pediatric LT recipients evaluated for hyperglycemia (1/1/1997–12/30/2009) and matched, non‐diabetic controls. DALT: random blood glucose >11.1 mm, ≥2 times, with insulin treatment. DALT diagnosed in 8.0% (24/300) included 7/24 (29.2%) with severe hyperglycemia (>27.7 mm), ketoacidosis in 2/24 (8.3%). At diagnosis, age was ≥11 yr old in 22/24 (91.7%); body mass was lean (BMIz −0.2 ± 1.5). Mean blood glucose was 24.6 mm with negative diabetes autoantibodies (19/19) and elevated C‐peptide (2.3 nm). DALT onset median 5.0 months included 29.1% >12 months. Insulin duration median 4.6 months included 41.7% >6 months. DALT resolved in 83.3% over 4.9 (0.9–9.1) yr. DALT differed from controls by increased preceding rejections, prednisolone dose, tacrolimus level, and triple immunosuppression (all p < 0.01). In conclusion, pediatric DALT occurred in non‐obese adolescents with insulin resistance, distinct from diabetes types 1 or 2. DALT was associated with preceding rejection and increased immunosuppression. Blood glucose monitoring, especially during increased immunosuppression following LT, could allow early diagnosis and reduce morbidity.
Patent processus vaginalis in adults who underwent robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: Predictive signs of postoperative inguinal hernia in the internal inguinal floor
Authors: Lee Dong Hoon , Jung Ha Bum , Chung Mun Su , Lee Seung Hwan , Chung Byung Ha
Published: August 2012

Objective:  To evaluate the risk for postoperative inguinal hernia according to the presence of patent processus vaginalis in an adult population.

Methods:  Medical records of 205 patients who underwent robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy from May 2007 to November 2011 were reviewed. Age, prostate‐specific antigen, prostate volume, body mass index, operative time and history of previous abdominal surgery were evaluated. The existence of patent processus vaginalis was also evaluated for the development of postoperative inguinal hernia.

Results:  Postoperative inguinal hernia occurred in 20 out of 410 (4.9%) groins (17/205 patients; 8.3%), and patent processus vaginalis was observed in 49 out of 410 (11.9%) groins. In the normal groin group, inguinal hernia occurred in seven out of 361 (1.9%) groins. However, in the patent processus vaginalis group, it occurred in 13 out of 49 (26.5%) groins. On univariate analysis using Cox proportional hazards model, age, body mass index, history of previous abdominal surgery and patent processus vaginalis were significant risk factors. Among them, patent processus vaginalis significantly increased the risk of postoperative inguinal hernia in multivariate analysis (hazard ratio 22.37). In the patent processus vaginalis group, inguinal hernia developed at 12.9 ± 9.2 months after robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and 15 ± 7.4 months in the normal groin group. Inguinal hernia‐free ratios were significantly lower in the patent processus vaginalis group than the normal groin group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:  The existence of patent processus vaginalis represents an important risk factor for postoperative inguinal hernia in adults. Urologists should consider the possibility of postoperative inguinal hernia when patent processus vaginalis is observed during surgery.
Spatial ecology of bluetongue lizards (Tiliqua spp.) in the Australian wet–dry tropics
Authors: PRICE‐REES SAMANTHA J. , BROWN GREGORY P. , SHINE RICHARD
Published: August 2012

New technologies for quantifying animal locations enable us to document habitat‐selection patterns of cryptic taxa in extraordinary detail. Northern bluetongues (Tiliqua scincoides intermedia) and centralian bluetongues (Tiliqua multifasciata) are large heavy‐bodied scincid lizards that are broadly sympatric in the wet–dry tropics of north‐western Australia. We used data from GPS‐based radiotelemetry (n = 49 lizards, tracked for 2–121 days, total n = 61 640 locations) to examine the size, internal structure and overlap of lizard home ranges. Despite substantial habitat differences at our two study sites (semi‐arid and relatively pristine habitat at Keep River National Park, Northern Territory, vs. highly disturbed and fragmented flood plain habitat in an agricultural area near Kununurra, Western Australia), home ranges were similar between the two areas, and between the two species. Our radio‐tracked lizards continued to disperse into previously unused areas throughout the duration of the study, so that the total areas used by lizards continued to increase. Based on the minimum convex polygon method, total home ranges averaged 4 ha (range 2–12 ha), but only about two‐thirds of each home range was used intensively. Each home range had multiple core areas, and overlap of core as well as peripheral areas (especially with same‐sex conspecifics) was high at the disturbed (Western Australia) site where lizard densities were high. The concentration of lizard activity within small core areas, often used by multiple individuals, suggests that these heavily used sites are critical to lizard conservation. However, the lizards' infrequent long‐distance displacements also make them vulnerable to changes in the wider landscape mosaic. Because GPS‐based radiotelemetry can quantify habitat use at finer spatial and temporal scales than earlier technologies, it can provide a robust base for management of at‐risk fauna.
Postgraduate surgical education and training in Canada and Australia: each may benefit from the other's experiences
Authors: Pollett William G. , Waxman Bruce P.
Published: August 2012

Canada and Australia share similar cultural origins and current multicultural societies and demographics but there are differences in climate and sporting pursuits. Surgeons and surgeon teachers similarly share many of the same challenges, but the health care and health‐care education systems differ in significant ways. The objective of this review is to detail the different postgraduate surgical training programs with a focus on general surgery and how the programs of each country may benefit from appreciating the experiences of the other. The major differences relate to entry requirements, the role of universities in governance of training, mandatory skills courses in early training, the accreditation process, remuneration for surgical teachers and the impact of private practice. Many of the differences are culturally entrenched in their respective medical systems and unlikely to change substantially. Direct entry into specialty training without an internship per se is now firmly established in Canada just as delayed entry after internship is mandated by the Australian Medical Board. Both recognize the importance of establishing goals and objectives, modular curricular and the emerging role of online educational resources and how these may impact on assessments. The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons is unlikely to cede much responsibility to the universities but alternative academic models are emerging. Private health care in the two countries differs, but there are increasing opportunities for training in the private sector in Australia. In spite of the differences, both provide excellent health care and surgical training opportunities in an environment with significant fiscal, technological and societal challenges.
Modified hemiarthroplasty for four‐part fractures of the proximal humerus
Authors: Wu Xing , Li Shao‐Hua , Cai Zheng‐Dong , Lou Lie‐Ming
Published: August 2012

Background

Hemiarthroplasty is used to treat patients with Neer four‐part fractures but the post‐operative complication rate remains high, particularly with regard to shoulder joint instability. This study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy of a modified rotator cuff reconstruction and balance technique by comparing it with conventional rotator cuff restoration surgery for Neer four‐part fractures.

Methods

This retrospective therapeutic study included 67 patients with Neer four‐part fractures. Forty‐five patients underwent the modified surgery and 22 control patients underwent conventional surgery. All patients were followed up for more than 3 years. Outcome was assessed by grading clinical outcome and pain and strength, measuring range of motion, and radiographic analysis.

Results

The Neer score was higher in the modified surgery group (84 versus 75; P = 0.009). The rate of satisfaction (Neer score ≥80) in the modified surgery group was higher than in the conventional surgery group (71.11% versus 40.91%; P = 0.017). Range of motion for active abduction, external rotation, internal rotation and active forward elevation was greater in the modified surgery group (all P < 0.01). The morbidity rate of post‐operative instability of the shoulder joint in the modified surgery group was much lower than that in the conventional surgery group (2.22% versus 18.2%; P < 0.01).

Conclusion

The modified hemiarthroplasty procedure for treatment of Neer four‐part fractures prevents post‐operative instability of the shoulder joint and improves function of the shoulder more effectively than the conventional hemiarthroplasty procedure.
Does Organizing for Creativity Really Lead to Innovation?
Authors: Çokpekin Özge , Knudsen Mette Præst
Published: August 2012

Stimulation of creativity has long been assumed to enhance innovation. Accordingly, organizing the work environment to unleash the creative potential of employees has been studied extensively. However, the present creativity literature has yet to produce sufficient empirical evidence to confirm this assumption, and therefore the generalizability of the relationship between organizational creativity and innovation remains indeterminate. This paper adopts the leading creativity and innovation models to identify the work environment characteristics stimulating creativity, and subsequently analyses whether this environment leads to product and process innovation in small and medium sized firms. The findings demonstrate that this environment does not yield the same results for product and process innovation, and particular factors of the work environment do not behave according to the expectations to enhance the likelihood of doing innovation. The study discusses these findings and advances the literature by showing that the relationship between organizational creativity and innovation is not generalizable, but is contingent upon the innovation type and, as the discussion will show, particular characteristics related to the firm. Accordingly, the paper suggests new research opportunities to further explore organizational creativity and innovation.
Manifold Destiny: Migrant Deaths and Destinations in the Arizona Desert
Authors: Lawrence Stephanie , Wildgen John
Published: August 2012

This research theorizes a model for unauthorized border crosser (UBC) behavior when crossing the Mexico/U.S. border into Arizona. The manifold model developed here is a modified funneling effect of multiple trails converging together at nodes that separate into multiple exit points. Using hydrological metaphors, we quantify deathsheds into trails by using the remains of UBCs as trail markers and then compare the trails produced from three geostatistical research methods. The results may be used in designing search‐and‐rescue locations.
Clinical outcome in 20 cases of lingual hemangiosarcoma in dogs: 1996–2011
Authors: Burton J. H. , Powers B. E. , Biller B. J.
Published: August 2012

With the exception of solar‐induced dermal hemangiosarcoma (HSA), the biologic behaviour of canineHSAis characterised by rapid tumour growth, a high metastatic rate and short survival times. Outcome of dogs withHSAof the tongue has not been previously reported. The purpose of this study was to assess outcome and prognostic factors in dogs with lingualHSA. Clinical data was collected retrospectively and histopathology was reviewed for 20 dogs. Median progression free survival was 524 days and the median overall survival time was 553 days. All dogs had low or intermediate grade tumours; most tumours were small and located on the ventral surface of the tongue. Prognostic factors significantly associated with increased survival included small tumour size and absence of clinical signs of an oral mass at the time of diagnosis. Dogs withHSAconfined to the tongue may have a better prognosis compared withHSAin other organs.
Platelet recovery rate during plasma exchange predicts early and late responses in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (CME)
Authors: Liu Chang , Kallogjeri Dorina , Dynis Marian , Grossman Brenda J.
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is the first‐line therapy for patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). However, therapeutic response to TPE and late prognosis vary among different patients, and predictors of these outcomes may help customize treatments to individual patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We retrospectively examined the platelet (PLT) recovery rate (PRR) in 64 consecutive patients with initial episode of TTP who received TPE in our institution between 2003 and 2010. PRRs were calculated by linear regression of the PLT counts at the start and during the first few days of TPE treatment. Its relationship with remission in response to TPE, exacerbation and relapse, and survival was analyzed by univariate and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS: With multivariate analysis, which included ADAMTS13 activities, patients with a PRR by Day 3 (PRR3) of 5 × 109/L per 24 hours or above were 18 times more likely to achieve remission in response to TPE than those with a lower PRR3 (p < 0.001). In addition, short‐term exacerbations and relapses beyond 1 month of remission occurred almost exclusively in patients with a PRR3 of 5 × 109/L per 24 hours or above. Survival was significantly better in these patients than in patients with PRR3 below the cutoff (p < 0.001), and the hazard ratio adjusted for ADAMTS13 and age was 23.2 (p < 0.005).

CONCLUSION: PRR3 with a cutoff of 5 × 109/L per 24 hours provides a practical approach to risk stratify TTP patients receiving TPE early in their treatment and may guide the decision making both at initial encounters and during the long‐term follow‐up.
Two pathogen reduction technologies—methylene blue plus light and shortwave ultraviolet light—effectively inactivate hepatitis C virus in blood products
Authors: Steinmann Eike , Gravemann Ute , Friesland Martina , Doerrbecker Juliane , Müller Thomas H. , Pietschmann Thomas , Seltsam Axel
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: Contamination of blood products with hepatitis C virus (HCV) can cause infections resulting in acute and chronic liver diseases. Pathogen reduction methods such as photodynamic treatment with methylene blue (MB) plus visible light as well as irradiation with shortwave ultraviolet (UVC) light were developed to inactivate viruses and other pathogens in plasma and platelet concentrates (PCs), respectively. So far, their inactivation capacities for HCV have only been tested in inactivation studies using model viruses for HCV. Recently, a HCV infection system for the propagation of infectious HCV in cell culture was developed.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Inactivation studies were performed with cell culture–derived HCV and bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), a model for HCV. Plasma units or PCs were spiked with high titers of cell culture–grown viruses. After treatment of the blood units with MB plus light (Theraflex MB‐Plasma system, MacoPharma) or UVC (Theraflex UV‐Platelets system, MacoPharma), residual viral infectivity was assessed using sensitive cell culture systems.

RESULTS: HCV was sensitive to inactivation by both pathogen reduction procedures. HCV in plasma was efficiently inactivated by MB plus light below the detection limit already by 1/12 of the full light dose. HCV in PCs was inactivated by UVC irradiation with a reduction factor of more than 5 log. BVDV was less sensitive to the two pathogen reduction methods.

CONCLUSIONS: Functional assays with human HCV offer an efficient tool to directly assess the inactivation capacity of pathogen reduction procedures. Pathogen reduction technologies such as MB plus light treatment and UVC irradiation have the potential to significantly reduce transfusion‐transmitted HCV infections.
Embodied Meanings of Early Childbearing Among American Indian Women: A Turning Point
Authors: Palacios Janelle , Chesla Catherine , Kennedy Holly , Strickland June
Published: August 2012

Introduction: American Indian women often have poor perinatal outcomes and are at risk for early childbearing. The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand the experience and meaning of early childbearing among American Indian women.

Methods: Employing interpretive phenomenology and a semistructured interview guide, we interviewed 30 adult American Indian women residing in a northwestern American Indian reservation about their experiences and meaning of early childbearing.

Results: Three overarching themes were tied to their eventual positive evaluation of the experience: 1) mourning a lost childhood, 2) seeking fulfillment, and 3) embodying responsibility.

Discussion: Women indicated that despite their tumultuous childhoods, early childbearing presented an opportunity to effect positive change in their lives. Women's health care providers are positioned to help women change their lives, thereby, improving health outcomes.
“Flexible Personhood”: Loving Animals as Family Members in Israel
Authors: Shir‐Vertesh Dafna
Published: August 2012

ABSTRACT This article discerns how human–animal boundaries are played with and blurred through familial love of pets in Israel. It explores the ways interspecies relationships in Israel enable incorporation of animals into the (human) familial sphere and the extent and limits of this inclusion. The analysis of the incorporation of pets into households of 52 couples reveals pets are treated as loving and loved members of the family, very similar to small children. At the same time, long‐term ethnographic research reveals that many loving relationships with animals do not endure: when life changes and unexpected situations pose obstacles to the human–animal love, the people involved may redefine or terminate it. Pets are treated as “flexible persons” or “emotional commodities”; they are loved and incorporated into human lives but can at any moment be demoted and moved outside of the home and the family. [humanness, animality, flexibility, boundaries, Israel]
The Soul of the Biblical Sandal: On Anthropology and Style
Authors: El Or Tamar
Published: August 2012

ABSTRACT This article is about the measurements and qualities of local style. Archeological, linguistic, and historical data are brought together to move deep into the cultural analysis of an object known as the biblical sandal. The relationship between the object and its meaning, which is at the core of much of the literature on material culture (Appadurai 1986;Henare et al. 2007), is analyzed via the notion of style. Style fuels and limits changes in material culture (Boas 1927;Wilk 1995;Wobst 1999), and the biography of the biblical sandal demonstrates that. New technologies, trends, and desires profoundly affect the story, but only to the limits of a certain style that retains a specific ethic and esthetic. This article focuses on one producer (Nimrod Ltd.) and is part of a larger project on material culture and production of style in Israel. [sandals, style, material culture, simplicity]
The Sanitized Sensorium
Authors: Ameeriar Lalaie
Published: August 2012

ABSTRACT  Based on 24 months of fieldwork in Pakistan and Canada with Pakistani women who migrated for work, this article examines the politics of multiculturalism and the construction of the “sanitized body.” I found two contradictory strains of multicultural practice in Canada: on the one hand, the erasure of “difference” with regard to immigrant bodies, on the other, the simultaneous recognition of that very difference. Public discourse in Canada on multiculturalism describes a relinquishing of cultural imperialism and a celebration of “multiness” as demonstrated by cultural festivals or other public celebrations, yet I found an imposition of a dominant culture through government‐funded settlement services that institute new ideals of bodily comportment on immigrants by teaching them how to dress and act. This dual mode of interpellation puts immigrants in an impossible situation in which they must sometimes suitably display their Otherness, and at other times efface their cultural difference. [multiculturalism, immigration, labor, Toronto]