bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Antiradical Activity Grape Seeds and Olive (Olea europaea) Pits Extracts
Authors: Tajalli F.
Published: January 2014

The antiradical activity of grape seeds and olive pits extracts were investigated. The aim of this study is evaluating the radical scavenging activity of methanol extracts of olive pits and grape seeds and to recover a functional and antiradical compound from olive oil and fruit juices factories waste and also for environmental treatment. The antiradical properties of ripe and unripe olive pits (RIOP and URIOP) and grape seeds (IGS) that are respectively used in Iranian oil industries and fruit juices producers are examined. All seeds and pits extracts showed DPPH radical scavenging activity ranging from 24.51 to 97.06. For this purpose a methanolic extract was prepared from each of the RIOP, URIOP and IGS and their radical scavenging ability is determined with DPPH method. For this trial the effect of 3 different dilutions (100, 200 and 300 ?g/L) of RIOP, URIOP, IGS extracts was used, separately. It was appeared that in above 100 ppm concentrations the antiradical properties reaches to its maximum activity. Also, IGS extract shows better effects in 100 ppm concentrations in comparison with RIOP, URIOP and ascorbic acid. The study shows that grape seeds can be used as a rich source of functional and antiradical compound and anticancer drugs production. Keywords: Iranian olive pits; DPPH; Antiradical activity; Radical scavenging; Grape seeds.  © 2014 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.  doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v6i1.16654 J. Sci. Res. 6 (1), 185-190 (2014)
Wine by-Products: Phenolic Characterization and Antioxidant Activity Evaluation of Grapes and Grape Pomaces from Six Different French Grape Varieties
Authors: Ky Isabelle , Lorrain Bénédicte , Kolbas Natallia , Crozier Alan , Teissedre Pierre-Louis
Published: January 2014

Grenache, Syrah, Carignan Noir, Mourvèdre, Counoise and Alicante Bouchet grape seeds and skins, harvested in 2009 and 2010 in the Rhône valley area of France, and their respective pomaces remaining after vinification, were analyzed for their phenolic composition and antioxidant activity. The polyphenol content was quantified by HPLC and the Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The antioxidant potential was measured with four different assays: ORAC, FRAP, ABTS and DPPH. Seeds contained higher amounts of total polyphenols, up to 44.5 mg of gallic acid equivalent [GAE]/g dry weight in Alicante pomace, than skin extracts. The maximum total phenolic in skins was 31.6 mg GAE/g dry weight detected in 2010 Alicante pomace. Seeds also had the highest antioxidant capacity. HPLC analysis revealed that, despite the vinification process, pomaces still contained an appreciable amount of proanthocyanidins as well as several anthocyanin glycosides. Alicante and Syrah proved to be the varieties of most interest in terms of their potential development for nutraceutical purposes.
Overuse Injuries Associated with Mountain Biking: Is Single-Speed Riding a Predisposing Factor?
Authors: Lebec Michael , Cook Kortny , Baumgartel Drew
Published: January 2014

Though mountain bikers are at significant risk for overuse injury, there is minimal quality research describing this relationship. Single-speed mountain biking, in which participants pedal a bike with only a single gear, may place riders at even greater risk for overuse problems due to the disproportionate physical effort associated with this type of riding. The focus of this study was to provide additional perspective on overuse injuries sustained by mountain bikers and to determine if single-speed mountain biking places participants at greater risk for overuse conditions. Four hundred and four (404) mountain bikers were surveyed concerning overuse injuries sustained during the previous year. Findings indicate that 63% of respondents reported an overuse injury affecting at least one area with the most commonly reported areas being the lumbar spine, knees, hand/wrist, and cervical spine. Individuals riding single-speed mountain bikes did not have a higher incidence of overuse injuries than riders of multiple-geared bikes. However, respondents who split time between riding single-speed and multiple-geared bikes were significantly more likely to report an overuse syndrome than those only riding single-speed or multiple-geared bikes (p = 0.0104). This group of riders may be at greater risk for overuse injury due to excessive fatigue and poor biomechanics.
Long-Term Effects of Magnetically Targeted Ferumoxide-Labeled Human Neural Stem Cells in Focal Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Song Miyeoun , Kim Young-Ju , Kim Yoon-Ha , Roh Jina , Kim Eun-Cheol , Lee Hong Jun , Kim Seung U. , Yoon Byung-Woo
Published: January 2014

The long-term effect of magnetically targeted neural stem cells in a rat focal cerebral ischemia model was investigated. In middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) stroke model rats, ferumoxide-labeled human neural stem cells (hNSCs) were injected into the tail vein. MCAO rats were divided into three groups: ischemia only (IO), ischemia with NSC injection (IC), and ischemia with NSC injection and the use of magnet targeting (IM). Four weeks after MCAO and 3 weeks posttransplantation, a greater number of hNSCs were found in ischemic lesion sites in IM rat brain compared with IO and IC animals. In addition, differentiation of hNSCs into neurons or astrocytes and angiogenesis were markedly increased. In IM rats, infarct volume was considerably reduced, and function was significantly improved. The present study indicates that long-term use of magnetic fields may be a useful way to improve the efficacy of targeted migration of stem cells and functional deficits in stem cell-based therapy for ischemic brain injury.
Engineering a Fibrocartilage Spectrum through Modulation of Aggregate Redifferentiation
Authors: Murphy Meghan K. , Masters Taylor E. , Hu Jerry C. , Athanasiou Kyriacos A.
Published: January 2014

Expanded costochondral cells provide a clinically relevant cell source for engineering both fibrous and hyaline articular cartilage. Expanding chondrocytes in a monolayer results in a shift toward a proliferative, fibroblastic phenotype. Three-dimensional aggregate culture may, however, be used to recover chondrogenic matrix production. This study sought to engineer a spectrum of fibrous to hyaline neocartilage from a single cell source by varying the duration of three-dimensional culture following expansion. In third passage porcine costochondral cells, the effects of aggregate culture duration were assessed after 0, 8, 11, 14, and 21 days of aggregate culture and after 4 subsequent weeks of neocartilage formation. Varying the duration of aggregate redifferentiation generated a spectrum of fibrous to hyaline neocartilage. Within 8 days of aggregation, proliferation ceased, and collagen and glycosaminoglycan production increased, compared with monolayer cells. In self-assembled neocartilage, type II-to-I collagen ratio increased with increasing aggregate duration, yet glycosaminoglycan content varied minimally. Notably, 14 days of aggregate redifferentiation increased collagen content by 25%, tensile modulus by over 110%, and compressive moduli by over 50%, compared with tissue formed in the absence of redifferentiation. A spectrum of fibrous to hyaline cartilage was generated using a single, clinically relevant cell source, improving the translational potential of engineered cartilage.
Comparison of Olfactory Bulbar and Mucosal Cultures in a Rat Rhizotomy Model
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed , Li Daqing , Collins Andrew , Tabakow Pawel , Raisman Geoffrey , Li Ying
Published: January 2014

In an ongoing clinical trial, a spinal injured patient who received a transplant of autologous cells cultured from the olfactory bulb is showing greater functional benefit than three previous patients with transplants of mucosal origin. Previous laboratory studies of transplantation into rat spinal cord injuries show that the superior reparative benefits of bulbar over mucosal cultures are associated with regeneration of severed corticospinal tract fibers over a bridge of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) formed across the injury site. In a rat rhizotomy paradigm, we reported that transplantation of bulbar cell cultures also enables severed axons of the C6–T1 dorsal roots to regenerate across a bridge of OECs into the spinal cord and restore electrophysiological transmission and forepaw grasping during a climbing test. We now report a repeat of the same rhizotomy procedure in 25 rats receiving cells cultured from olfactory mucosal biopsies. In no case did the transplanted cells form a bridging pathway. No axons crossed from the severed roots to the spinal cord, and there was no restoration of forepaw grasping. This suggests that the superior clinical benefit in the patient receiving bulbar cell transplants is due to regeneration of severed fibers across the injury site, and this correlates with imaging and the pattern of functional recovery. Using present culture protocols, the yield of OECs from bulbar biopsies is around 50%, but that from mucosal biopsies is less than 5%. Improving the yield of OECs from mucosal biopsies might avoid the necessity for the intracranial approach to obtain bulbar cells.
Donor-Specific Anti-HLA Antibodies in Huntington's Disease Recipients of Human Fetal Striatal Grafts
Authors: Porfirio Berardino , Paganini Marco , Mazzanti Benedetta , Bagnoli Silvia , Bucciantini Sandra , Ghelli Elena , Nacmias Benedetta , Putignano Anna Laura , Rombolà Giovanni , Saccardi Riccardo , Lombardini Letizia , Di Lorenzo Nicola , Vannelli Gabriella B. , Gallina Pasquale
Published: January 2014

Fetal grafting in a human diseased brain was thought to be less immunogenic than other solid organ transplants, hence the minor impact on the efficacy of the transplant. How much prophylactic immune protection is required for neural allotransplantation is also debated. High-sensitive anti-HLA antibody screening in this field has never been reported. Sixteen patients with Huntington's disease underwent human fetal striatal transplantation in the frame of an open-label observational trial, which is being carried out at Florence University. All patients had both brain hemispheres grafted in two separate robotic-stereotactic procedures. The trial started in February 2006 with the first graft to the first patient (R1). R16 was given his second graft on March 2011. All patients received triple immunosuppressive treatment. Pre- and posttransplant sera were analyzed for the presence of anti-HLA antibodies using the multiplexed microsphere-based suspension array Luminex xMAP technology. Median follow-up was 38.5 months (range 13-85). Six patients developed anti-HLA antibodies, which turned out to be donor specific. Alloimmunization occurred in a time window of 0–49 months after the first neurosurgical procedure. The immunogenic determinants were non-self-epitopes from mismatched HLA antigens. These determinants were both public epitopes shared by two or more HLA molecules and private epitopes unique to individual HLA molecules. One patient had non-donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies in her pretransplant serum sample, possibly due to previous sensitization events. Although the clinical significance of donor-specific antibodies is far from being established, particularly in the setting of neuronal transplantation, these findings underline the need of careful pre- and posttransplant immunogenetic evaluation of patients with intracerebral grafts.
Two Distinct Mechanisms Mediate the Involvement of Bone Marrow Cells in Islet Remodeling: Neogenesis of Insulin-Producing Cells and Support of Islet Recovery
Authors: Iskovich Svetlana , Goldenberg-Cohen Nitza , Sadikov Tamila , Yaniv Isaac , Stein Jerry , Askenasy Nadir
Published: January 2014

We have recently reported that small-sized bone marrow cells (BMCs) isolated by counterflow centrifugal elutriation and depleted of lineage markers (Fr25lin-) have the capacity to differentiate and contribute to regeneration of injured islets. In this study, we assess some of the characteristics of these cells compared to elutriated hematopoietic progenitors (R/O) and whole BMCs in a murine model of streptozotocin-induced chemical diabetes. The GFPbrightCD45+ progeny of whole BMCs and R/O progenitors progressively infiltrate the pancreas with evolution of donor chimerism; are found at islet perimeter, vascular, and ductal walls; and have a modest impact on islet recovery from injury. In contrast, Fr25lin- cells incorporate in the islets, convert to GFPdimCD45-PDX-1+ phenotypes, produce proinsulin, and secrete insulin with significant contribution to stabilization of glucose homeostasis. The elutriated Fr25lin- cells express low levels of CD45 and are negative for SCA-1 and c-kit, as removal of cells expressing these markers did not impair conversion to produce insulin. BMCs mediate two synergistic mechanisms that contribute to islet recovery from injury: support of islet remodeling by hematopoietic cells and neogenesis of insulin-producing cells from stem cells.
Bone Morphogenetic Protein 9 and 13 Induce C3H10T1/2 Cell Differentiation to Cardiomyocyte-Like Cells in Vitro
Authors: Chen Lu , Wei Hao , Tan Jintong , Chen Hengsheng , Liu Zhenguo , Chen Yuan
Published: January 2014

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP9) and BMP13 on cardiac differentiation of C3H10T1/2 cells in vitro and to characterize the differentiated cells on their ultrastructure and transmembrane electrophysiological features. C3H10T1/2 cells were transfected with the vectors for BMP9 or BMP13 and differentiated into cardiomyocytes in vitro for up to 28 days. The expression of cardiac-specific genes Gata4 and Mef2c and proteins troponin T (cTnT) and connexin 43 (Cx43) was significantly increased in the cells transfected with BMP9 or BMP13 after differentiation over the controls as evaluated using quantitative RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining. Transmission electron microscopy and Masson trichrome staining showed that the specific myocardial leap dish and myofilament-like structure were present in the cells overexpressing BMP9 or BMP13, not in the control cells. Whole-cell patch-clamping study demonstrated the presence of delayed rectifier potassium current, inward rectifier potassium current, and T-type calcium current in the cells overexpressing BMP9 or BMP13. Sodium current was detected in a small number of cells overexpressing BMP9, not in the BMP13-transfected cells or the control cells. The expression of Mef2c gene and Cx43 and cTnT proteins was also significantly higher in the cells overexpressing BMP9 than those overexpressing BMP13. Our data indicate that BMP9 and BMP13 (BMP9 might be more effective) promoted the differentiation of C3H10T1/2 cells into cardiomyocyte-like cells with cellular ultrastructures and ion channel currents similar to mature cardiomyocytes in vitro.
Inhibition of Neurosphere Formation in Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells by Acrylamide
Authors: Chen Jong-Hang , Lee Don-Ching , Chen Mei-Shu , Ko Ying-Chin , Chiu Ing-Ming
Published: January 2014

Previous studies showed that transplantation of cultured neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) could improve functional recovery for various neurological diseases. This study aims to develop a stem cell-based model for predictive toxicology of development in the neurological system after acrylamide exposure. Treatment of mouse (KT98/F1B-GFP) and human (U-1240 MG/F1B-GFP) NSPCs with 0.5 mM acrylamide resulted in the inhibition of neurosphere formation (definition of self-renewal ability in NSPCs), but not inhibition of cell proliferation. Apoptosis and differentiation of KT98 (a precursor of KT98/F1B-GFP) and KT98/F1B-GFP are not observed in acrylamide-treated neurospheres. Analysis of secondary neurosphere formation and differentiation of neurons and glia illustrated that acrylamide-treated KT98 and KT98/F1B-GFP neurospheres retain the NSPC properties, such as self-renewal and differentiation capacity. Correlation of acrylamide-inhibited neurosphere formation with cell-cell adhesion was observed in mouse NSPCs by live cell image analysis and the presence of acrylamide. Protein expression levels of cell adhesion molecules [neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) and N-cadherin] and extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) in acrylamide-treated KT98/F1B-GFP and U-1240 MG/F1B-GFP neurospheres demonstrated that NCAM decreased and phospho-ERK (pERK) increased, whereas expression of N-cadherin remained unchanged. Analysis of AKT (protein kinase B, PKB)/β-catenin pathway showed decrease in phospho-AKT (p-AKT) and cyclin D1 expression in acrylamide-treated neurospheres of KT98/F1B-GFP. Furthermore, PD98059, an ERK phosphorylation inhibitor, attenuated acrylamide-induced ERK phosphorylation, indicating that pERK contributed to the cell proliferation, but not in neurosphere formation in mouse NSPCs. Coimmunoprecipitation results of KT98/F1B-GFP cell lysates showed that the complex of NCAM and fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1) is present in the neurosphere, and the amount of this complex decreases after acrylamide treatment. Our results reveal that acrylamide inhibits neurosphere formation through the disruption of the neurosphere architecture in NSPCs. The downregulation of cell-cell adhesion resulted from decreasing the levels of NCAM as well as the formation of NCAM/ FGFR complex.
The Regeneration Potential after Human and Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation in a Rat Sciatic Nerve Injury Model can be Monitored by MRI
Authors: Tremp Mathias , Schwabedissen Moritz Meyer Zu , Kappos Elisabeth A. , Engels Patricia E. , Fischmann Arne , Scherberich Arnaud , Schaefer Dirk J. , Kalbermatten Daniel F.
Published: January 2014

Traumatic nerve injuries are a major clinical challenge. Tissue engineering using a combination of nerve conduits and cell-based therapies represents a promising approach to nerve repair. The aim of this study was to examine the regeneration potential of human adipose-derived stem cells (hASCs) after transplantation in a nonautogenous setting and to compare them with autogenous rat ASCs (rASCs) for early peripheral nerve regeneration. Furthermore, the use of MRI to assess the continuous process of nerve regeneration was elaborated. The sciatic nerve injury model in female Sprague-Dawley rats was applied, and a 10-mm gap created by using a fibrin conduit seeded with the following cell types: rASCs, Schwann cell (SC)-like cells from rASC, rat SCs (rSCs), hASCs from the superficial and deep abdominal layer, as well as human stromal vascular fraction (1 × 106 cells). As a negative control group, culture medium only was used. After 2 weeks, nerve regeneration was assessed by immunocytochemistry. Furthermore, MRI was performed after 2 and 4 weeks to monitor nerve regeneration. Autogenous ASCs and SC-like cells led to accelerated peripheral nerve regeneration, whereas the human stem cell groups displayed inferior results. Nevertheless, positive tends could be observed for hASCs from the deep abdominal layer. By using a clinical 3T MRI scanner, we were able to visualize the graft as a small black outline and small hyperintensity indicating the regenerating axon front. Furthermore, a strong correlation was found between the length of the regenerating axon front measured by MRI and the length measured by immunocytochemistry ( r = 0.74, p = 0.09). We successfully transplanted and compared human and autologous stem cells for peripheral nerve regeneration in a rat sciatic nerve injury model. Furthermore, we were able to implement the clinical 3T MRI scanner to monitor the efficacy of cellular therapy over time.
L'érosion d'un pouvoir de représentation
Authors: Bruneau Ivan
Published: January 2014

En guise d’introduction au dossier, cet article propose une analyse des transformations de l’espace des représentations agricoles en France au cours des dernières décennies. Alors qu’au début des années 1980 le « monde agricole » apparaissait comme un lieu d’observation privilégié pour l’étude des mécanismes contribuant à l’unification symbolique des groupes sociaux et professionnels, les enquêtes sur lesquelles reposent les analyses réunies dans ce numéro s’inscrivent dans un contexte sensiblement différent. En effet, le pouvoir de représentation construit par la FNSEA et le CNJA au cours des années 1960 et 1970, et légitimé par les responsables politiques et les institutions d’encadrement de l’agriculture, a ensuite été fragilisé par un ensemble de processus concordants. Rendre compte de cette histoire implique de mettre en relation différentes évolutions, qui concernent aussi bien les définitions de la représentativité par le pouvoir politique, que les recompositions du champ des organisations agricoles, ou les couvertures médiatiques des actions collectives.
« E pur si muove ! », ou comment saisir empiriquement les processus de citoyenneté
Authors: Neveu Catherine
Published: January 2014

Cet article vise à discuter les conditions de possibilité d’approches empiriquement fondées des processus de citoyenneté, en s’appuyant sur la déjà très riche littérature internationale sur ce sujet en sciences sociales du politique. Celle-ci repose notamment sur une conception de la citoyenneté qui souligne son caractère essentiellement fluide et contextuel, et ne la réduit pas aux dimensions électorales. Saisir ces citoyennetés en actes implique alors d’effectuer un « pas de côté » logique et d’inclure dans l’analyse toute la complexité des entremêlements du politique et du social.
À propos de Michel de FORNEL et Albert OGIEN, dir., Bourdieu, théoricien de la pratique, Paris, Éditions de l'EHESS, coll. « Raisons pratiques », 21, 2011, 284 p.
Authors: Fabiani Jean-Louis
Published: January 2014

Le recueil d’articles consacrés à la théorie de la pratique de Pierre Bourdieu entend rompre avec la tradition stérile qui veut qu’on soit inconditionnellement pour ou radicalement contre l’œuvre du sociologue. Les auteurs, philosophes, sociologues, anthropologues et linguistes, se situent à des distances différentes de l’entreprise et l’ouvrage est riche de perspectives variées. Si l’accent est mis sur l’interrogation pragmatiste, le rapport à la linguistique ou sur l’ancrage phénoménologique, il s’agit de savoir ce qu’il faut ajouter ou ce qu’il faut retrancher de l’œuvre pour qu’elle satisfasse aux conditions d’une véritable théorie de l’action. Quatre parties organisent le volume, Théorie, Politique, Langage et Action, dans un questionnement à la fois pluriel et cohérent. L’ouvrage s’impose comme une référence incontournable sur une œuvre aujourd’hui classique.
A Comprehensive Literature Review on Cheating
Authors: Simha Aditya , Cullen John B.
Published: January 2014

This article provides a comprehensive review of the literature on academic dishonesty and cheating. The different kinds of cheating behaviors and the factors associated with them are delineated and described. Suggestions are provided on how to take corrective and proactive decisions to control and thereby reduce academic dishonesty and cheating.
Association of Sleep and Fatigue With Decision Regret Among Critical Care Nurses
Authors: Scott Linda D. , Arslanian-Engoren Cynthia , Engoren Milo C.
Published: January 2014

Background

The effects of inadequate sleep on clinical decisions may be important for patients in critical care units, who are often more vulnerable than patients in other units. Fatigued nurses are more likely than well-rested nurses to make faulty decisions that lead to decision regret, a negative cognitive emotion that occurs when the actual outcome differs from the desired or expected outcome.

Objectives

To examine the association between selected sleep variables, impairment due to fatigue, and clinical-decision self-efficacy and regret among critical care nurses. Decision regret was the primary outcome variable.

Methods

A nonexperimental, descriptive design and extant measures were used to obtain data from a random sample of full-time nurses. Binary logistic regression models were used to examine the association between sleep variables, fatigue, and clinical-decision self-efficacy and regret. The discrimination of the models was compared with the C statistic, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve.

Results

A total of 605 nurses returned the questionnaires (17% response rate). Among these, decision regret was reported by 157 of 546 (29%). Nurses with decision regret reported more fatigue, more daytime sleepiness, less intershift recovery, and worse sleep quality than did nurses without decision regret. Being male, working a 12-hour shift, and clinical-decision satisfaction were significantly associated with decision regret (C statistic, 0.719; SE, 0.024).

Conclusion

Nurses who experience impairments due to fatigue, loss of sleep, and inability to recover between shifts are more likely than unimpaired nurses to report decision regret.
Use of Therapeutic Hypothermia in Cocaine-Induced Cardiac Arrest: Further Evidence
Authors: Scantling Dane , Klonoski Emily , Valentino Dominic J.
Published: January 2014

Therapeutic hypothermia is an important and successful treatment that has been endorsed only in specific clinical settings of cardiac arrest. Inclusion criteria thus far have not embraced drug-induced cardiac arrest, but clinical evidence has been mounting that therapeutic hypothermia may be beneficial in such cases. A 59-year-old man who experienced a cocaine-induced cardiac arrest had a full neurological recovery after use of therapeutic hypothermia. The relevant pathophysiology of cocaine-induced cardiac arrest is reviewed, the mechanism and history of therapeutic hypothermia are discussed, and the clinical evidence recommending the use of therapeutic hypothermia in cocaine-induced cardiac arrest is reinforced.
Insights and Advances in Multidisciplinary Critical Care: A Review of Recent Research
Authors: Blot Stijn , Afonso Elsa , Labeau Sonia
Published: January 2014

The intensive care unit is a work environment where superior dedication is pivotal to optimize patients’ outcomes. As this demanding commitment is multidisciplinary in nature, it requires special qualities of health care workers and organizations. Thus research in the field covers a broad spectrum of activities necessary to deliver cutting-edge care. However, given the abundance of research articles and education activities available, it is difficult for modern critical care clinicians to keep up with the latest progress and innovations in the field. This article broadly summarizes new developments in multidisciplinary intensive care, providing elementary information about advanced insights in the field by briefly describing selected articles bundled in specific topics. Issues considered include cardiovascular care, monitoring, mechanical ventilation, infection and sepsis, nutrition, education, patient safety, pain assessment and control, delirium, mental health, ethics, and outcomes research.
Decreasing Inappropriate Unable-to-Assess Ratings for the Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Swan Joshua T.
Published: January 2014

Background

The Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU) is a validated tool for diagnosing delirium in the ICU and yields 1 of 3 ratings: positive, negative, and unable to assess (UTA). It was hypothesized that an educational campaign focused on establishing patients’ arousal as comatose versus noncomatose before initiating the CAM-ICU would decrease the incidence of inappropriate UTA ratings.

Objectives

To compare the incidence of inappropriate UTA ratings before and after an educational campaign.

Methods

An interventional, quasi-experimental study was conducted in a surgical ICU at a tertiary academic medical center. A nursing educational campaign was conducted from March 1 to March 7, 2012. Patients admitted to the surgical ICU from December 25, 2011 through January 25, 2012 were included in the baseline cohort, and patients admitted from March 9 through April 9, 2012 were included in the posteducation cohort. Inclusion criteria were admission to the surgical ICU for at least 24 hours and at least 1 CAM-ICU assessment.

Results

The baseline cohort included 93 patients and the posteducation cohort included 96 patients. Patients were 41% less likely to receive an inappropriate UTA rating after the educational campaign (32% [30 of 93] baseline vs 19% [18 of 96], P = .03). Patients with concurrent mechanical ventilation were more likely to receive an inappropriate UTA rating in the baseline cohort (odds ratio, 30.7; 95% CI, 8.9–105.9; P < .001) and the posteducation cohort (odds ratio, 15.5; 95% CI, 4.1–59.5; P < .001).

Conclusion

The educational campaign decreased the incidence of inappropriate UTA ratings.
Interleukin 6 and Apolipoprotein E as Predictors of Acute Brain Dysfunction and Survival in Critical Care Patients
Authors: Alexander Sheila A. , Ren Dianxu , Gunn Scott R. , Kochanek Patrick M. , Tate Judith , Ikonomovic Milos , Conley Yvette P.
Published: January 2014

Background

Delirium occurs in up to 80% of intensive care patients and is associated with poor outcomes. The biological cause of delirium remains elusive.

Objectives

To determine if delirium and recovery are associated with serum levels of interleukins and apolipoprotein E over time and with apolipoprotein E genotype.

Methods

The sample consisted of 77 patients with no previous cognitive deficits who required mechanical ventilation for 24 to 96 hours. Daily serum samples were obtained for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay measurements of interleukins 6, 8, and 10 and apolipoprotein E. DNA extracted from blood was analyzed for apolipoprotein E genotyping. The Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit was administered daily on days 2 through 9.

Results

Among the 77 patients, 23% had no delirium, 46% experienced delirium, and 31% experienced coma. Additionally, 77% had delirium or coma (acute brain dysfunction), and compared with other patients, had fewer ventilator-free days (P = .03), longer stay (P = .04), higher care needs at discharge (P = .001), higher mortality (P = .02), and higher levels of interleukin 6 (P = .03), and the APOE*3/*3 apolipoprotein E genotype (P = .05). Serum levels of apolipoprotein E correlated with levels of interleukins 8 and 10. Patients with the E4 allele of apolipoprotein E had shorter duration of delirium (P = .02) and lower mortality (P = .03) than did patients without this allele.

Conclusions

Apolipoprotein E plays a complex role in illness response and recovery in critically ill patients. The relationship between apolipoprotein E genotype and brain dysfunction and survival is unclear.
Effect of Lavender Aromatherapy on Vital Signs and Perceived Quality of Sleep in the Intermediate Care Unit: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lytle Jamie , Mwatha Catherine , Davis Karen K.
Published: January 2014

Background

Sleep deprivation in hospitalized patients is common and can have serious detrimental effects on recovery from illness. Lavender aromatherapy has improved sleep in a variety of clinical settings, but the effect has not been tested in the intermediate care unit.

Objectives

To determine the effect of inhalation of 100% lavender oil on patients’ vital signs and perceived quality of sleep in an intermediate care unit.

Methods

A randomized controlled pilot study was conducted in 50 patients. Control patients received usual care. The treatment group had 3 mL of 100% pure lavender oil in a glass jar in place at the bedside from 10 pm until 6 am. Vital signs were recorded at intervals throughout the night. At 6 am all patients completed the Richard Campbell Sleep Questionnaire to assess quality of sleep.

Results

Blood pressure was significantly lower between midnight and 4 am in the treatment group than in the control group (P = .03) According to the overall mean change score in blood pressure between the baseline and 6 am measurements, the treatment group had a decrease in blood pressure and the control group had an increase; however, the difference between the 2 groups was not significant (P = .12). Mean overall sleep score was higher in the intervention group (48.25) than in the control group (40.10), but the difference was not significant.

Conclusion

Lavender aromatherapy may be an effective way to improve sleep in an intermediate care unit.
Dendritic cells in blood and urine samples from bladder cancer patients undergoing BCG immunotherapy
Authors: Rossi Raffaella , Lichtner Miriam , Iori Francesco , Ermocida Angela , Mascia Claudia , Mengoni Fabio , Sauzullo Ilaria , Dini Danilo , Mastroianni Claudio M. , Vullo Vincenzo
Published: January 2014

Objectives: Immunotherapy with BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guérin) after transurethral resection of the bladder tumor represents a highly effective primary treatment for intermediate and high-risk superficial bladder cancer. The effectiveness of this therapy has been documented, but its mechanism of action is not clear yet. In the present study, we investigated the changes of dendritic cells (DC) numbers in peripheral blood and urine of patients with superficial bladder cancer undergoing BCG intravescical therapy Material and method: We have enumerated plasmacytoid and myeloid DCs in the peripheral blood and in the urine of patients with bladder cancer in order to clarify the role of these cells in the evolution of the disease and the effect of therapy. DCs in blood and urine samples were assessed using the single-platform TruCOUNT assay with monoclonal antibodies. The study population included 37 healthy donors and 13 patients with diagnosis of primitive superficial bladder cancer. Results: At the time of diagnosis a reduction of blood DCs was found in patients as opposed to healthy donors, while DCs were not found in the urine in the same way as in healthy subjects. Six of these patients were followed before and after weekly and monthly instillations of BCG. In the peripheral blood, we observed an immunological recovery of DCs from the third weekly instillation up to the sixth. In the urine of patients, we didn’t find mDCs or pDCs at T0, but we found a statistically significant change from the third instillation up to the sixth. On the contrary, we didn’t find mDCs in urine during monthly instillation. Conclusions: DC Count could be used in the monitoring of patients undergoing BCG therapy. Immunological restoration of mDC numbers in peripheral blood and the efflux in urine could be important for confirming the effectiveness of BCG instillation.
Potential usefulness of CTC detection in follow up of prostate cancer patients. A preliminary report obtained by using Adnagene platform
Authors: Albino Giuseppe , Vendittelli Francesca , Paolillo Carmela , Zuppi Cecilia , Capoluongo Ettore
Published: January 2014

Objective: Prostate cancer (PCa) represents one of the most important medical problems for males, being the second major cause of cancer death. Routinely, PCa patients are followed up with both periodic evaluation of serum PSA levels and imaging. Recently, alternative laboratory methods were proposed for PCa patients’ monitoring, with contrasting results. Aim of the present study was to evaluate the usefulness of a new commercially CE-IVD kit for detection of prostate circulating tumour cells. Our intention was to verify the Adnagene platform usefulness to identify patients with disease progression, whatever treatment ongoing, in order to modify the therapeutic process even before treatment failure is evident with imaging methods. Materials and Methods: Twenty-one patients were enrolled and subdivided into three groups: n = 10 high risk tumor PCa patients; n = 6 low risk PCa patients; n = 5 sbjects without any signs of PCa. AdnaTest Prostate Cancer kit was used for enrichment and molecular characterization of prostate circulating tumour cells. Results: Healthy subjects (with BPH) and patients without metastases resulted as negative, while 3 out of 10 high risk PCa patients were positive at least for one molecular marker like PSA, while only two showed positivity for PSMA mRNA. Our results indicate that the test specificity is 100% and the sensitivity is 100%; of course the sample is too small to give it statistical validity. In detail we verified that only the “not responder” patients resulted positive for AdnaTest. Conclusions: The present preliminary report provides evidence that isolation and detection of circulating tumour cells (CTCs) is feasible and it may be useful in the follow-up of patients with advanced prostate cancer. If the results of this preliminary study would be confirmed by a large prospective cohort study, it could be demonstrated that this test is a rapid diagnostic method, based on the analysis of a blood sample and useful to the clinician to decide when to change therapy for patients resistant to castration or able to confirm that, at that time, the therapy is effective.
Regulation of the abundance of clover seed weevils, Apion spp. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in a seed stand of red clover (Trifolium pratense L.)
Authors: Kolařík P. , Rotrekl J.
Published: January 2014

The clover seed weevils, Apion trifolii and Protapion apricans, members of the genus Apion, are responsible for causing serious economic damage in clover. In 2010-2012, the effectiveness of some insecticides against clover seed weevils in the genus Apion were tested in red clover stands. The efficacy of different products was evaluated on the basis of analyses of specimens trapped in the herb layer of red clover using a sweep net and red clover heads sampled in individual plots. Over the course of these trials, the applications of the products tested resulted in a marked reduction in their numbers (particularly of adults and, to a lesser extent, also of larvae). The highest efficacy was observed with Biscaya 240 (A.I. thiacloprid) and Mospilan 20 SP (A.I. acetamiprid). Results obtained in this study corroborated the low efficacy of the insecticide Karate Zeon Technology 5 CS against seed weevils of the genus Apion.
Endobronchial Ultrasound: A Useful Tool in the Diagnosis of Bronchogenic Cyst
Authors: Katsenos Stamatis , Rojas-Solano Jose , Becker Heinrich D.
Published: January 2014

Diagnosis of bronchogenic cysts is possible with computed tomography, where the cysts are seen usually as well-circumscribed lesions of water density. However, many of the cysts have a soft-tissue density thus rendering them indistinguishable from neoplasms. In this article, we describe a case of bronchogenic cyst presenting as soft-tissue mass that was evaluated and diagnosed by endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS). We discuss the ultrasound image characteristics of the cyst and its histopathology findings. EBUS seems to be a valuable tool in the diagnosis of bronchogenic cysts and also enables their complete aspiration.
Imaging Diagnosis of Neonatal Anemia: Report of Two Unusual Etiologies
Authors: Grover Shabnam Bhandari , Preethi G Rajalakshmi , Saluja Sumita , Bhargava Ankit
Published: January 2014

Anemia in neonatal period is rare, with the common causes being Rh and ABO blood group incompatibility, hemorrhagic disease of newborn, congenital hemolytic anemia, hemoglobinopathies, and TORCH (toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes virus) infections. Congenital leukemia and infantile osteopetrosis (OP) are among the rare causes of neonatal anemia. A review of the literature shows approximately 200 reported cases of congenital leukemia. Articles describing the imaging features of congenital leukemia are still rarer. Infantile OP, another rare disorder with a reported incidence of 1 in 250,000 has characteristic imaging features, which are diagnostic of the disease. We report a case each, of two rare diseases: Congenital leukemia and infantile osteopetrosis. Additionally, our report highlights the radiological and imaging features of congenital leukemia and infantile OP and their crucial role in arriving at an early diagnosis.
Visualization of a Small Ventricular Septal Defect at First-pass Contrast-enhanced Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Secchi Francesco , Giardino Antonello , Fabiano Salvatore , Fesslova Vlasta , Sardanelli Francesco
Published: January 2014

Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a congenital heart disease that accounts for up to 40% of all congenital cardiac malformations. VSD is a connection between right and left ventricle, through the ventricular septum. Echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) help identify this entity. This case presents a 12-year-old male diagnosed with a small muscular apical VSD of 3 mm in diameter, at echocardiography. Cardiac MRI using first-pass perfusion sequence, combining the right plane of acquisition with a short bolus of contrast material, clearly confirmed the presence of VSD.
Cystic and Cavitary Lung Lesions in Children: Radiologic Findings with Pathologic Correlation
Authors: Odev Kemal , Guler İbrahim , Altinok Tamer , Pekcan Sevgi , Batur Abdussamed , Ozbiner Hüseyin
Published: January 2014

A number of diseases produce focal or multiple thin-walled or thick-walled air- or fluid-containing cysts or cavitary lung lesions in both infants and children. In infants and children, there is a spectrum of focal or multifocal cystic and cavitary lung lesions including congenital lobar emphysema, congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation, pleuropulmonary blastoma, bronchogenic cyst, pulmonary sequestration, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, airway diseases, infectious diseases (bacterial infection, fungal infection, etc.), hydatid cysts, destroid lung, and traumatic pseudocyst. For the evaluation of cystic or cavitary lung lesion in infants and children, imaging plays an important role in accurate early diagnosis and optimal patient management. Therefore, a practical imaging approach based on the most sensitive and least invasive imaging modality in an efficient and cost-effective manner is paramount. We reviewed the conventional radiographs and computed tomography findings of the most common cystic and cavitary lung lesions in infants and children.
Adrenal Lesions: Spectrum of Imaging Findings with Emphasis on Multi-Detector Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Guerrisi Antonino , Marin Daniele , Baski Mahbubeh , Guerrisi Pietro , Capozza Federica , Catalano Carlo
Published: January 2014

The adrenal gland is a common site of a large spectrum of abnormalities like primary tumors, hemorrhage, metastases, and enlargement of the gland from external hormonal stimulation. Most of these lesions represent nonfunctioning adrenal adenomas and thus warrant a conservative management. Multi-detector computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging are still considered highly specific and complementary techniques for the detection and characterization of adrenal abnormalities. Radiologist can establish a definitive diagnosis for most adrenal masses (i.e., carcinoma, hemorrhage) based on imaging alone. Imaging therefore can differentiate malignant lesions from those benign and avoid unnecessary aggressive management of benign lesions. The article gives an overview of the adrenal lesions and their imaging characteristics seen on CT and MR imaging.
Effect of Tube Voltage (100 vs. 120 kVp) on Radiation Dose and Image Quality using Prospective Gating 320 Row Multi-detector Computed Tomography Angiography
Authors: Khan Atif N. , Khosa Faisal , Shuaib Waqas , Nasir Khurram , Blankstein Ron , Clouse Melvin
Published: January 2014

Objectives:

The objective of the following study is to evaluate the effect of reducing tube voltage from 120 to 100 kVp using prospective gating 320 row multi-detector computed tomography angiography on image quality and reduction in radiation dose.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 78 sequential patients were scanned with prospective electrocardiogram gating. A total of 45 patients (Group 1) with mean body mass index (BMI) 29 ± 2 and heart rate (HR) 57 ± 7 beats per minute (BPM) were scanned at 120 kVp. 33 patients (Group 2) with mean BMI 23 ± 3 and HR 58 ± 6 bpm were scanned at 100 kVp. Effective dose was calculated using dose length product and factor (k = 0.014). Quantitative assessment of image quality was calculated by measuring signal to noise ratio (SNR) and contrast to noise ratio (CNR) in the left ventricle and left main coronary artery. Two experienced cardiac radiologists using a three-point ordinal scale assessed subjectively image quality.

Results:

In Group 1, the median radiation dose was 5.31 mSv (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.86-6.09) and for Group 2 (P = 0.009) the mean radiation dose was 3.71 mSv (95% CI: 2.76-4.87), representing 30% decrease in radiation dose. In multivariate analyses, adjusting for age, gender, HR, BMI, tube current and scan length, an absolute median reduction of 2.21 mSv (1.13-3.29 mSv) was noted in patients scanned with 100 kVp (P < 0.0001). The quantitative image quality (SNR and CNR) was not statistically significant between the groups. Subjective image quality was rated as good or excellent in 99% of coronary segments for both groups (P value was considered as non-significant).

Conclusion:

Our study suggests that radiation dose may be lowered from 120 to 100 kVp with preservation of image quality in patient's whose BMI is ≤27.
Diffusion-weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Diagnosis of Bone Tumors: Preliminary Results
Authors: Pekcevik Yeliz , Kahya Mehmet Onur , Kaya Ahmet
Published: January 2014

Objective:

The study aims to determine whether apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) can help differentiate benign and malignant bone tumors.

Materials and Methods:

From January 2012 to February 2013, we prospectively included 26 patients. Of these 15 patients were male and 11 were female; ranging in age from 8 to 76 years (mean age, 34.5 years). Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was obtained with a single-shot echo-planar imaging sequence using a 1.5T MR scanner. We grouped malignant lesions as primary, secondary, and primary tumor with chondroid matrix. The minimum ADC was measured in the tumors and mean minimum ADC values were selected for statistical analysis. ADC values were compared between malignant and benign tumors using the Mann-Whitney U-test and receiver operating curve analysis were done to determine optimal cut-off values.

Results:

The mean ADC values from the area with lowest ADC values of benign and malignant tumors were 1.99 ± 0.57 × 10−3 mm2/s and 1.02 ± 1.0 × 10−3 mm2/s, respectively. The mean minimum ADC values of benign and malignant tumors were statistically different (P = 0.029). With cut-off value of 1.37 (10−3 mm2/s), sensitivity was 77.8% and specificity was 82.4%, for distinguishing benign and malignant lesion. Benign and secondary malignant tumors showed statistically significant difference (P = 0.002). There was some overlap in ADC values between benign and malignant tumors. The mean minimum ADC values of benign and malignant chondroid tumors were high. Giant cell tumor, non-ossifying fibroma and fibrous dysplasia showed lower ADC values.

Conclusion:

Although there is some overlap, ADC values of benign and malignant bone tumors seem to be different. Further studies with larger patient groups are needed to find an optimal cut-off ADC value.