bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early onset of fesoterodine efficacy in subjects with overactive bladder
Authors: Goldman Howard B. , Morrow Jon D. , Gong Jason , Tseng Li‐Jung , Schneider Tim
Published: September 2010

Study Type – Therapy (cohort) Level of Evidence 2b

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

Fesoterodine is an effective treatment for overactive bladder. However, the length of time until the effects begin to be seen was not known.

The study demonstrates that the effect of Fesoterodine 4 mg on overactive bladder symptoms can be seen at one week.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the onset of efficacy of fesoterodine 4 mg once daily on overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms after 1 week of treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a prespecified analysis of data collected during the first week of a 12‐week, open‐label, single‐arm, flexible‐dose study of fesoterodine. Eligible subjects were adult men and women (aged ≥ 18 years) who reported urinary frequency (eight or more micturitions per 24 h) and urgency (three or more episodes per 24 h) in 5‐day bladder diaries at baseline, and dissatisfaction with previous tolterodine or tolterodine extended‐release treatment received within 2 years of screening. All subjects received fesoterodine 4 mg once daily during the first 4 weeks of treatment (with an optional dose increase to fesoterodine 8 mg after week 4). Early onset of efficacy of fesoterodine 4 mg was assessed based on changes from baseline to week 1 in variables recorded in 5‐day bladder diaries, including total micturitions, urgency episodes, urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) episodes and nocturnal micturitions. Urgency and severe urgency episodes were defined as those rated ≥ 3 and ≥4, respectively, on the five‐point Urinary Sensation Scale (USS) (1 = no urgency, 5 = UUI); frequency‐urgency sum (a combined measure of micturition frequency and urgency) was defined as the sum of all USS ratings.

RESULTS

All bladder diary variables, including total and nocturnal micturitions, UUI episodes, urgency episodes, severe urgency episodes and frequency‐urgency sum per 24 h, were significantly improved (all P < 0.0001) after 1 week of treatment with fesoterodine 4 mg compared to baseline. The diary‐dry rate at week 1 (i.e. subjects with at least one UUI episode at baseline who subsequently reported no UUI episodes on week 1 diary) was 38%.

CONCLUSION

In this open‐label study of subjects with OAB who had been previously treated and dissatisfied with tolterodine, fesoterodine 4 mg showed a rapid onset of efficacy at 1 week.
Non‐invasive methods of penile lengthening: fact or fiction?
Authors: Oderda Marco , Gontero Paolo
Published: September 2010

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

Penile lengthening methods remain a controversial issue. Surgical procedures of “lengthening phalloplasty” are characterized by poorly defined indications and an unacceptably high rate of complications, as recently outlined by a literature review, while non‐surgical techniques are largely popularized by the media but often lack scientific evidence. In the literature we found only ten articles/abstracts of studies pertaining to the topic of our review.

With our review, we aimed to explore whether non‐surgical methods of penile lengthening may have some scientific background. We focused specifically on penile extenders, which among conservative methods are those whose efficacy is supported by some scientific evidence. It seems that penile traction devices should be proposed as the first‐line treatment option for patients seeking a penile lengthening procedure.

Penile size is a matter of great interest among men who are affected by ‘short penis syndrome’ or just believe themselves to have a small penis, even though the dimensions of the organ fall within the normal range. Surgical procedures of ‘lengthening phalloplasty’ lack standardized indications and carry a high risk of complications. Several non‐invasive methods of penile lengthening have been described, such as vacuum devices, penile traction devices and penoscrotal rings; even ‘physical exercises’ have been popularized through the media. Most of these techniques, however, are not supported by any scientific evidence. We briefly analyse the efficacy and scientific background of such non‐surgical methods of penile lengthening. It seems that penile extenders represent the only evidence‐based technique of penile elongation. Results achieved do not seem to be inferior to surgery, making these traction devices an ideal first‐line treatment option for patients seeking a penile lengthening procedure.
Construction of tissue‐engineered corpus cavernosum with muscle‐derived stem cells and transplantationin vivo
Authors: Ji Chenyang , Min Fuli , Liang Weiqiang , Chen Yuhong , Pan Shujuan , Bin Lianjie , Chen Shihong , Wei Zhe , He Tao , Gu Yanhui , Zhang Jinming
Published: September 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series)  Level of Evidence 4

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

The tissue‐engineered research of corpus cavernosum has been studied, but an ideal method was not carried out. In the study, muscle‐derived stem cells were used as seeding cells to construct tissue‐engineered corpus cavernosums. The result demonstrated MDSCs could be seeded on three‐dimensional scaffolds of acellular corporal collagen matrices and developed into tissues similar to native corpus cavernosumin vivo.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility of tissue‐engineered corpus cavernosum (TECC) with muscle‐derived stem cells (MDSCs) as seed cells and determine the growth potentialin vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Acellular corporal collagen matrices (ACCMs) were obtained from adult rabbit penis by a cell removal procedure. MDSCs were separated and purified using a digestion method and Preplate technique, then seeded on ACCMs at a concentration of 30 × 106 cells/mL to construct TECCs. After 5 days of culture, seeded ACCMs were implanted with albuginea of rabbits. The implants were retrieved at 2, 4 and 6 months after implantation.

Histochemistry, immunohistochemisry and scanning electron microscopy were performed to analyse the morphological characteristics of the TECCs.

RESULTS

The decellularization process successfully extracted all cellular components while preserving the original collagen fibres.

Histological analyses of the explants at all time points in the experimental group had more cells and better arranged growth than the control group. α‐Smooth muscle actin and endothelial nitric oxide synthase‐positive cells were more prevalent in the experimental group.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that MDSCs can be seeded on three‐dimensional ACCM scaffolds and develop tissues that are similar to native normal corpus cavernosum.
Evolutionary Debunking Arguments
Authors: Kahane Guy
Published: September 2010

Evolutionary debunking arguments (EDAs) are arguments that appeal to the evolutionary origins of evaluative beliefs to undermine their justification. This paper aims to clarify the premises and presuppositions of EDAs—a form of argument that is increasingly put to use in normative ethics. I argue that such arguments face serious obstacles. It is often overlooked, for example, that they presuppose the truth of metaethical objectivism. More importantly, even if objectivism is assumed, the use of EDAs in normative ethics is incompatible with a parallel and more sweeping global evolutionary debunking argument that has been discussed in recent metaethics. After examining several ways of responding to this global debunking argument, I end by arguing that even if we could resist it, this would still not rehabilitate the current targeted use of EDAs in normative ethics given that, if EDAs work at all, they will in any case lead to a truly radical revision of our evaluative outlook.
Dysfunctional Policy Transfer in National Tax Blacklists
Authors: SHARMAN J. C.
Published: September 2010

Common sense and much of the policy transfer literature suggests that learning from abroad delivers better policy at lower cost. In contrast, this article argues that policy transfer in tax blacklists has been a dysfunctional process tending to replicate errors. Rather than reflecting learning, normative mimicry, or market pressures, over‐committed policymakers have responded to complexity and crisis by unreflectively cutting and pasting from foreign models. Facing a short‐term political imperative to “do something” about tax evasion in an environment of fiscal crisis, many policy makers have compiled blacklists of tax havens by copying lists of “the usual suspects” from abroad. Evidence for both the process of transfer and the dysfunctional nature of resulting policy is provided by tracking recurring errors in these lists that are unlikely to have arisen independently.
Perinatal risk factors interacting with catechol O‐methyltransferase and the serotonin transporter gene predict ASD symptoms in children with ADHD
Authors: Nijmeijer Judith S. , Hartman Catharina A. , Rommelse Nanda N.J. , Altink Marieke E. , Buschgens Cathelijne J.M. , Fliers Ellen A. , Franke Barbara , Minderaa Ruud B. , Ormel Johan , Sergeant Joseph A. , Verhulst Frank C. , Buitelaar Jan K. , Hoekstra Pieter J.
Published: September 2010

Background:  Symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often co‐occur. Given the previously found familiality of ASD symptoms in children with ADHD, addressing these symptoms may be useful for genetic association studies, especially for candidate gene findings that have not been consistently replicated for ADHD.

Methods:  We studied the association of the catechol O‐methyltransferase (COMT) Val158Met polymorphism and the serotonin transporter (SLC6A4/SERT/5‐HTT) 5‐HTTLPR insertion/deletion polymorphism with ASD symptoms in children with ADHD, and whether these polymorphisms would interact with pre‐ and perinatal risk factors, i.e., maternal smoking during pregnancy and low birth weight. Analyses were performed using linear regression in 207 Dutch participants with combined type ADHD of the International Multicenter ADHD Genetics (IMAGE) study, and repeated in an independent ADHD sample (n = 439) selected from the TRracking Adolescents’ Individual Lives Survey (TRAILS). Dependent variables were the total and subscale scores of the Children’s Social Behavior Questionnaire (CSBQ).

Results:  No significant main effects of COMT Val158Met, 5‐HTTLPR, maternal smoking during pregnancy and low birth weight on ASD symptoms were found. However, the COMT Val/Val genotype interacted with maternal smoking during pregnancy in increasing stereotyped behavior in the IMAGE sample (p = .008); this interaction reached significance in the TRAILS sample after correction for confounders (p = .02). In the IMAGE sample, the 5‐HTTLPR S/S genotype interacted with maternal smoking during pregnancy, increasing problems in social interaction (p = .02), and also interacted with low birth weight, increasing rigid behavior (p = .03). Findings for 5‐HTTLPR in the TRAILS sample were similar, albeit for related CSBQ subscales.

Conclusions:  These findings suggest gene–environment interaction effects on ASD symptoms in children with ADHD.
A randomised controlled trial comparing TVTTM, PelvicolTM and autologous fascial slings for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women
Authors: Guerrero KL , Emery SJ , Wareham K , Ismail S , Watkins A , Lucas MG
Published: September 2010

Please cite this paper as: Guerrero K, Emery S, Wareham K, Ismail S, Watkins A, Lucas M. A randomised controlled trial comparing TVTTM, PelvicolTM and autologous fascial slings for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women. BJOG 2010;117:1493–1503.

Objective  To compare TVTTM, PelvicolTM and autologous fascial slings (AFSs).

Design  A multicentre randomised control trial.

Setting  Four units in the UK.

Population  Women requiring primary surgery for stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Methods  A total of 201 women with urodynamically proven stress incontinence were randomised into three groups and assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year.

Main outcome measure  The primary outcome was patient‐reported improvement rates. Secondary outcomes included operative complications/time, intermittent self‐catheterisation (ISC) and re‐operation rates. The quality‐of‐life tools used were the Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (BFLUTS) and EuroQoL.

Results  Fifty women had a PelvicolTM sling, 79 had AFSs and 72 had TVTTM. At 6 months the PelvicolTM arm had poorer improvement rates (73%) than TVTTM (92%)/AFS (95%); P = 0.003. At 1 year only 61% of the PelvicolTM slings remained as improved, versus 93% of TVTs and 90% of AFSs (P < 0.001). PelvicolTM has poorer dry rates (22%) than TVTTM (55%)/AFS (48%) (P = 0.001) at 1 year; hence, the PelvicolTM arm was suspended following interim analysis. There is no difference in the success rates between TVTTM and AFS. One in five women in the PelvicolTM arm had further surgery for SUI by 1 year, but none required further surgery in the other arms. AFS took longer to do (54 minutes versus 35 minutes for TVTTM/36 minutes for PelvicolTM) and had higher ISC rates (9.9 versus 0% PelvicolTM/TVTTM 1.5%). Hospital stay was shortest for TVTTM (2 days). Most BFLUTS domains showed improvement in all three arms. The improvement for women in the PelvicolTM arm, however, was less than for women in the other arms in several key domains.

Conclusions  PelvicolTM cannot be recommended for the management of SUI. TVTTM does not have greater efficacy than AFS, but does utilise fewer resources.
Maternal morbidity and near miss in the community: findings from the 2006 Brazilian demographic health survey
Authors: Souza JP , Cecatti JG , Parpinelli MA , Sousa MH , Lago TG , Pacagnella RC , Camargo RS
Published: September 2010

Please cite this paper as: Souza J, Cecatti J, Parpinelli M, Sousa M, Lago T, Pacagnella R, Camargo R. Maternal morbidity and near miss in the community: findings from the 2006 Brazilian demographic health survey. BJOG 2010;117:1586–1592.

Objective  To obtain an estimate of the prevalence of potentially life‐threatening maternal conditions and near‐miss events in Brazil, and to explore the factors associated with these complications.

Design  A demographic health survey (DHS) focusing on reported maternal complications.

Setting  Data from the five geographical regions of Brazil.

Population  A total of 5025 women with at least one live birth in the 5‐year reference period preceding their interview in the DHS.

Methods  A secondary analysis of the 2006 Brazilian DHS database was carried out using a validated questionnaire to evaluate the occurrence of maternal complications and related key interventions. According to a pragmatic definition, any woman reporting the occurrence of eclampsia, hysterectomy, blood transfusion or admission to the intensive care unit was considered as having experienced a near‐miss event. Associations between the sociodemographic characteristics of the women and severe maternal morbidity were evaluated.

Main outcome measures  Proportions and ratios of complications and related interventions defined as maternal near miss in pregnancy, and estimated risk factors for maternal morbidities.

Results  Around 22% of women reported complications during pregnancy. The prevalence of maternal near miss in Brazil, using the pragmatic definition, was 21.1 per 1000 live births. An increased risk of severe maternal morbidity was found in women aged ≥40 years and in those with low levels of education.

Conclusions  Nearly 70 000 maternal near‐miss cases and approximately 750 000 cases with potentially life‐threatening conditions are estimated to occur in Brazil per year. A pragmatic definition of maternal near miss was useful to obtain more reliable information at the community level. This approach could be used to gather information on maternal morbidity in settings in which such data are not routinely collected.
Empowering dialogues – the patients’ perspective
Authors: Tveiten Sidsel , Knutsen Ingrid Ruud
Published: September 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 333–340
 
Empowering dialogues – the patients’ perspective

The aim of the study was to highlight the patients’ experiences and perspectives of the dialogue with the health professionals at a pain clinic. This knowledge can develop and give nuanced understanding of patient empowerment and sense of control. Qualitative content analysis was used to reveal the meaning of the patients’ experiences and perspectives during focus group interviews. The findings and interpretations revealed the main theme; preconditions and opportunities for participation. The main theme was represented by four subthemes; means for common understanding, basis for collaboration, acknowledgement and legitimacy. The findings and interpretations are discussed in the light of an evolving theory on women’s sense of control while experiencing chronic pain and empowerment. The dialogue is very important related to aspects of control, remoralization and demoralization and is affected by external structural factors. This underlines the importance of further research focusing on empowerment and power.
An iterative local search approach applied to the optimal stratification problem
Authors: Brito José , Ochi Luiz , Montenegro Flávio , Maculan Nelson
Published: September 2010

Stratified sampling is a technique that consists in separating the elements of a population into nonoverlapping groups, called strata. This paper describes a new algorithm to solve the one‐dimensional case, which reduces the stratification problem to just determining strata boundaries. Assuming that the number L of strata and the total sample size n are predetermined, we obtain the strata boundaries by taking into consideration an objective function associated with the variance. In order to solve this problem, we have implemented an algorithm based on the iterative local search metaheuristic. Computational results obtained from a real data set are presented and discussed.
Epilepsy and activity—A population‐based study
Authors: Gordon Kevin E. , Dooley Joseph M. , Brna Paula M.
Published: September 2010

Purpose:  To compare the activity profiles of a nationally representative sample of individuals with epilepsy compared to the general population.

Methods:  The Canadian Community Health Survey is a cross‐sectional survey that uses a stratified cluster sample design to obtain information on Canadians 12 years of age or older. Data on activity and energy expenditure, among those aged 12–39 years, were compared for those who reported having epilepsy and the remainder of the population.

Results:  Of the 53,552 respondents, 341 reported having epilepsy. There was no difference in the monthly frequency of leisure physical activity of >15 min duration between those who did and did not have epilepsy. The daily energy expenditure related to leisure physical activity was also similar between the two groups. The choice of leisure activity was similar, but those with epilepsy were more likely to use walking as a leisure physical activity and were less likely to be involved in ice hockey, weight training, and home exercise.

Discussion:  These results suggest that the negative attitudes toward restricting access to physical activity do not appear to be adversely affecting the leisure activity of Canadian youth and young adults with epilepsy.
Beyond localization: The role of traditional neuropsychological tests in an age of imaging
Authors: Baxendale Sallie , Thompson Pamela
Published: September 2010

Rapid advances in structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) present two significant challenges to the rationale and role of the traditional neuropsychological assessment in the presurgical evaluation of epilepsy surgery candidates today. The first is a direct challenge to the model of material‐specific memory that has underpinned much clinical practice over the last 50 years. The second, more fundamental, challenge goes to the very heart of the lateralizing/localizing approach that has been the cornerstone of clinical neuropsychology practice in epilepsy surgery centers to date. This review examines these challenges and suggests some ways in which the profession might respond and adapt. We conclude that noninvasive neuropsychological assessment remains a critical investigation in the presurgical evaluation of epilepsy surgery patients. Its value stretches beyond the localization of a surgically remediable seizure focus. Once a vital test, other investigations are now superior in this respect in many cases. However, new technologies have enhanced the role of the traditional neuropsychological assessment, which is now able to provide unparalleled insights and predictions into the way in which the underlying pathology, seizures, and proposed surgery shape an individual’s profile of cognitive abilities. Detailed neuropsychological feedback enables the patient to make an informed decision, and forms the basis of the tailor made preemptive rehabilitation programs that can be implemented preoperatively, minimizing the most significant morbidity associated with epilepsy surgery today.
Long‐term epilepsy surgery outcomes in patients with MRI‐negative temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Immonen Arto , Jutila Leena , Muraja‐Murro Anu , Mervaala Esa , Äikiä Marja , Lamusuo Salla , Kuikka Jyrki , Vanninen Esko , Alafuzoff Irina , Ikonen Aki , Vanninen Ritva , Vapalahti Matti , Kälviäinen Reetta
Published: September 2010

Purpose:  The outcome of surgery in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and normal high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been significantly worse than in patients with unilateral hippocampal damage upon MRI. The purpose of this study was to determine the long‐term outcomes of consecutive true MRI‐negative TLE patients who all underwent standardized preoperative evaluation with intracranial electroencephalography (EEG) electrodes.

Methods:  In this study we present all adult MRI‐negative TLE surgery candidates evaluated between January 1990 and December 2006 at Kuopio Epilepsy Center in Kuopio University Hospital, which provides a national center for epilepsy surgery in Finland. During this period altogether 146 TLE surgery candidates were evaluated with intracranial electrodes, of whom 64 patients with normal high‐resolution MRI were included in this study.

Results:  Among the 38 patients who finally underwent surgery, at the latest follow‐up (mean 5.8 years), 15 (40%) were free of disabling seizures (Engel class I) and 6 (16%) were seizure‐free (Engel class IA). Twenty‐one (55%) of 38 patients had poor outcomes (Engel class III–IV). Outcomes did not change compared to 12‐month follow‐up. Histopathologic examination failed to reveal any focal pathology in 68% of our MR‐negative cases. Only patients with noncongruent positron emission tomography (PET) results had worse outcomes (p = 0.044).

Discussion:  Our results suggest that epilepsy surgery outcomes in MRI‐negative TLE patients are comparable with extratemporal epilepsy surgery in general. Seizure outcomes in the long‐term also remain stable. Modern imaging techniques could further improve the postsurgical seizure‐free rate. However, these patients usually require chronic intracranial EEG evaluation to define epileptogenic areas.
Brain activation patterns of versive, hypermotor, and bilateral asymmetric tonic seizures
Authors: Wong Chong H. , Mohamed Armin , Larcos George , McCredie Rochelle , Somerville Ernest , Bleasel Andrew
Published: September 2010

Purpose:  Patients who have seizure onset from different brain regions can produce seizures that appear clinically indistinguishable from one another. These clinically stereotypic manifestations reflect epileptic activation of specific networks. Several studies have shown that ictal perfusion single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) can reveal propagated ictal activity. We hypothesize that the pattern of hyperperfusion may reflect neuronal networks that generated specific ictal symptomatology.

Methods:  All patients were identified who were injected with 99mTc‐hexamethyl‐propylene‐amine‐oxime (HMPAO) during versive seizures (n = 5), bilateral asymmetric tonic seizures (BATS; n = 5), and hypermotor seizures (n = 7) in the presurgical epilepsy evaluation between 2001 and 2005. The SPECT ictal–interictal difference image pairs of each subgroup were compared with image pairs of 14 controls using statistical parametric mapping (SPM 2) to identify regions of significant hyperperfusion. Hyperperfused regions with corrected cluster‐level significance p < 0.05 were considered significant.

Results:  We have identified a distinct ictal perfusion pattern in each subgroup. In versive seizure subgroup, prominent hyperperfusion was present in the frontal eye field opposite to the direction of head version. In addition, there was associated caudate and crossed cerebellar hyperperfusion. The BATS subgroup showed pronounced hyperperfusion supplementary sensorimotor area ipsilateral to the epileptogenic region, bilateral basal ganglia, and contralateral cerebellar hemisphere. The hypermotor seizure subgroup demonstrated two clusters of significant hyperperfusion: one involving bilateral frontomesial regions, cingulate gyri, and caudate nuclei, and another involving ipsilateral anteromesial temporal structures, frontoorbital region, insula, and basal ganglia.

Discussion:  We have identified distinct hyperperfusion patterns for specific ictal symptomatology. Our findings provide further insight into understanding the anatomic basis of seizure semiology.
Enhancing Student Learning in Food Engineering Using Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Wong Shin Y. , Connelly Robin K. , Hartel Richard W.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  The current generation of students coming into food science and engineering programs is very visually oriented from their early experiences. To increase their interest in learning, new and visually appealing teaching materials need to be developed. Two diverse groups of students may be identified based on their math skills. Food science students tend to find it difficult to use mathematics as a problem‐solving tool for food engineering problems. Food engineering students, on the other hand, should be challenged to use emerging mathematical tools to develop their problem‐solving skills. Therefore, the approach of this project involved the development of a curriculum to train undergraduate food engineers in the effective use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software to solve food engineering problems by engaging them in the creation of food engineering teaching tools. These CFD outputs were then used as innovative teaching tools for the food science students. In this paper, this concept will be illustrated by unsteady‐state heat transfer and fluid flow problems. To evaluate the efficiency of the teaching materials developed, a student focus group was asked to answer the same quiz following a conventional and CFD output aided teaching session. The assessment result showed an improved understanding of the subject after the CFD teaching session. These visual aids were excellent tools to illustrate the validity of the formulas presented in class. In addition, the new visual materials enabled a better understanding of the relationships among different process parameters. In general, this helped the food science students better appreciate the food engineering concepts that govern food processing operations.
Food Microbiology—Design and Testing of a Virtual Laboratory Exercise
Authors: Flint Steve , Stewart Terry
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  A web‐based virtual laboratory exercise in identifying an unknown microorganism was designed for use with a cohort of 3rd‐year university food‐technology students. They were presented with a food‐contamination case, and then walked through a number of diagnostic steps to identify the microorganism. At each step, the students were asked to select 1 of 4 tests. All tests had an associated cost. Feedback was given on selection and once the right test was selected, students were shown the results and could progress. At the end of the exercise, students had determined a number of characteristics of the microorganism. They were then required to identify the organism using a variety of reference material and present a report on the significance of the microorganism identified. A student survey showed they enjoyed the exercise and felt it fulfilled the aims and objectives of the lesson. There was a positive response to its flexible nature and the inclusion of test costs. This virtual laboratory was less expensive and 10 times faster than a traditional laboratory exercise yet achieved the same learning outcomes for students who were already familiar with laboratory techniques. The virtual lab was developed with a generic template that could be used for future lessons.
Engineering skeletal muscle tissue – new perspectives in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Klumpp Dorothee , Horch Raymund E. , Kneser Ulrich , Beier Justus P.
Published: September 2010

Introduction

Matrices for skeletal muscle tissue engineering – gaining orientation

Electrospun nanofibre matrices

Nanotechnology and smart matrices

Cell sources for skeletal muscle TE

Conclusion

Muscle tissue engineering (TE) has not yet been clinically applied because of several problems. However, the field of skeletal muscle TE has been developing tremendously and new approaches and techniques have emerged. This review will highlight recent developments in the field of nanotechnology, especially electrospun nanofibre matrices, as well as potential cell sources for muscle TE. Important developments in cardiac muscle TE and clinical studies on Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) will be included to show their implications on skeletal muscle TE.
Cardiac telocytes: serial dynamic images in cell culture
Authors: Suciu L. , Nicolescu M. I. , Popescu L. M.
Published: September 2010

Telocytes (TC) are interstitial cells with telopodes (Tp). These prolongations (Tp) are quite unique: very long (several tens of micrometres) and very thin (≤0.5 μm), with moniliform aspect: thin segments (podomeres) alternating with dilations (podoms). To avoid any confusion, TC were previously named interstitial Cajal‐like cells (ICLC). Myocardial TC were repeatedly documented by electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. TC form a network by their Tp, either in situ or in vitro. Cardiac TC are (completely) different of ‘classic’ fibroblasts or fibrocytes. We hereby present a synopsis of monitoring, by time‐lapse videomicroscopy, of Tp network development in cell culture. We used a protocol that favoured interstitial cell selection from adult mouse myocardium. Videomicroscopy showed dynamic interactions of neighbour TC during the network formation. During their movement, TC leave behind distal segments (podomeres) of their Tp as guiding marks for the neighbouring cells to follow during network rearrangement.
Combination therapy in the treatment of psoriasis
Authors: Domm Silja , Mrowietz Ulrich
Published: September 2010

In addition to topical monotherapy for mild and systemic monotherapy for moderate to severe psoriasis, combination therapy plays an important role in daily practice. Although clinical trials almost exclusively evaluate monotherapy regimens, in real life psoriasis patients are usually treated with combination therapies. All combinations are used, topical/topical, topical/UV‐light, topical/systemic or UV‐light/systemic. Often not only two but more drugs/therapies are combined. Not every combination provides additive or synergistic effects. Some combinations are not possible and may be regarded as contraindications. Data on a benefit‐risk‐assessment are much more sparse in medical literature as compared to monotherapies. We summarize current knowledge about the use of combination therapies in psoriasis on the basis of published literature in the form of a table to show which combinations are possible, useful or which can not be recommended. This provides a quick overview of available options.
Infant anaemia is associated with infection, low birthweight and iron deficiency in rural Bangladesh
Authors: Eneroth Hanna , Persson Lars‐Åke , El Arifeen Shams , Ekström Eva‐Charlotte
Published: September 2010

Aim:  To estimate the prevalence of infant anaemia and its association with iron deficiency, growth, infection and other micronutrient deficiencies.

Methods:  Using data from MINIMat, a randomized maternal food and micronutrient supplementation trial, we assessed the associations between anaemia (haemoglobin < 105 g/L) in 580 infants at 6 months and deficiencies of iron, vitamin A, vitamin B12, zinc and folate, infection and anthropometric indices. Variables associated with anaemia in bivariate analyses were evaluated in logistic regression models, adjusting for potential confounders.

Results:  Anaemia was found in 46% of the infants, and among these, 28% had iron deficiency (plasma ferritin <9 μg/L). Elevated C‐reactive protein (>10mg/L) (OR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.6, 4.7), low birthweight (OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.5, 3.5) and iron deficiency (OR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.4, 3.6) were independently associated with increased risk for anaemia. We also observed a seasonal variation in anaemia not mediated through the other factors studied.

Conclusion: In a cohort in rural Bangladesh, anaemia at age 6 months was common and associated with infection, low birthweight and iron deficiency.
90Sr THERAPY FOR ORAL SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA IN TWO CATS
Authors: NAGATA KOICHI , SELTING KIMBERLY A. , COOK CRISTI R. , RENSCHLER METTA , LATTIMER JIMMY C.
Published: September 2010

Two cats with a superficial oral squamous cell carcinoma responded favorably to treatment using a90Sr probe. From one to six fields were applied per tumor, depending on tumor size. The surface dose per treatment ranged from 75 to 150 Gy and the total surface dose ranged from 200 to 500 Gy. Adverse effects were minimal. The cats survived 7 months and 5 years 9 months from the time of diagnosis. These data indicate that with careful patient selection90Sr may be useful for the treatment of feline oral squamous cell carcinoma in some patients.
CLINICAL, PATHOLOGIC, AND MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING CHARACTERISTICS OF CANINE DISC EXTRUSION ACCOMPANIED BY EPIDURAL HEMORRHAGE OR INFLAMMATION
Authors: MATEO ISIDRO , LORENZO VALENTINA , FORADADA LAIA , MUÑOZ ALBERTO
Published: September 2010

Our aim was to characterize the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features of canine disc extrusion accompanied by epidural hemorrhage or inflammation. We correlated the imaging characteristics of this type of disc extrusion in 46 dogs and compared these features with clinical signs and pathologic findings. Data from 50 control dogs with MR imaging features of a disc extrusion with no associated hemorrhage or inflammation, characterized by a T2‐hypointense extradural mass, were used for comparison of the relative location of the two types of lesions and prognosis. Disc extrusion causing epidural hemorrhage or inflammation is more common in the caudal aspect of the lumbar spine than disc extrusions that do not cause signs of hemorrhage or inflammation (P<0.05) in MR images. In dogs with disc extrusion and associated epidural hemorrhage or inflammation, there was no association between MR imaging features and signalment, the presence or absence of hemorrhage, or pathologic findings. The appearance of the lesion created by disc extrusion with epidural hemorrhage and inflammation encompasses a wide variety of imaging features, likely related to the duration of the hemorrhage and associated inflammatory changes. In 10 of 46 dogs these secondary changes masked identification of the disc extrusion itself in the MR images. An awareness of the variety of MR imaging features of disc extrusion accompanied by extradural hemorrhage or inflammation is important to avoid making an incorrect diagnosis and to facilitate a proper surgical approach. The prognosis of dogs with disc extrusion accompanied by hemorrhage or inflammation does not appear to be different than for dogs with disc extrusion and without imaging signs of epidural hemorrhage or inflammation.
Continuous Reduction of Plasma Paraoxonase Activity With Increasing Dialysis Vintage in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Henning Bernhard F. , Holzhausen Helge , Tepel Martin
Published: September 2010

Plasma paraoxonase (PON) is an enzyme that hydrolyzes organic phosphate and aromatic carboxylic acid esters. Reduced activity is associated with early events of atherogenesis. The relevance of PON phenotypes is not well characterized in hemodialysis patients. In a cross‐sectional study we measured PON activity in 377 hemodialysis patients photometrically using the substrates 4‐nitrophenylacetate and phenylacetate. The PON ratio was calculated from 4‐nitrophenylacetate‐derived activity divided by phenylacetate‐derived activity. Frequency distribution of the PON ratio showed three different PON phenotypes. 74% of hemodialysis patients showed PON phenotype 1, 21% PON phenotype 2, and 5% PON phenotype 3. Compared to hemodialysis patients with PON 1, patients with PON 2 or 3 showed higher conversion rates for 4‐nitrophenylacetate. We observed a significant reduction of PON ratio with increasing dialysis vintage (P < 0.001 by ANOVA and post test for linear trend). In patients on hemodialysis treatment for less than 12 months, the PON ratio was 1.16 ± 0.08 (n = 64). In patients on hemodialysis treatment for more than 60 months the PON ratio was 1.00 ± 0.04 (n = 130; P = 0.05). This reduction of PON activity was due to reduced 4‐nitrophenylacetate‐derived PON activity with increasing dialysis vintage. In conclusion, plasma PON ratio significantly declines with increasing dialysis vintage.
Association Between Platelet‐Related Hemostasis Impairment and Functional Iron Deficiency in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Zupan Irena P , Sabovic Miso , Salobir Barbara , Ponikvar Jadranka B , Cernelc Peter , Lavre Janez , Vujkovac Bojan
Published: September 2010

Hemostasis impairment and iron deficiency are relatively frequent in hemodialysis patients. Both conditions may contribute to anemia. The aim of our study was to explore possible associations between hemostasis impairment and iron deficiency by employing recently introduced methods for measurement of both conditions. Sixty‐three hemodialysis patients were studied, with 30 age‐matched, healthy controls. Hemostasis impairment was detected by in vitro closure time tests (collagen/epinephrine cartridge: CEPI; collagen/adenosine diphosphate (ADP) cartridge: CADP), whereas (functional) iron deficiency was measured by reticulocyte hemoglobin content (CHr) and the percentage of hypochromic red cells (HRC). We found that the patient group (N = 14) with functional iron deficiency (CHr < 29) had significantly delayed in vitro closure times in comparison to the patients (N = 49) without functional iron deficiency. Furthermore, both types of closure time (CEPI and CADP) correlate highly significantly with CHr (P = 0.002, and P = 0.001). Such an association was not observed between in vitro closure time and HRC. We found a significant correlation between hemostasis impairment (measured by in vitro closure time) and iron deficiency (measured by CHr) in hemodialysis patients. This correlation has not previously been reported. It seems that in hemodialysis patients the hemostasis impairment affects (functional) iron deficiency, most likely by facilitating excessive blood loss and consequent iron deficiency. Thus, it appears that a delayed in vitro closure time along with decreased CHr may identify hemodialysis patients who suffer (occult) blood loss and/or excessive blood loss during hemodialysis procedure. The clinical value of this finding should be tested in larger studies.
Psychometric Properties of IRT Proficiency Estimates
Authors: Kolen Michael J. , Tong Ye
Published: September 2010

Psychometric properties of item response theory proficiency estimates are considered in this paper. Proficiency estimators based on summed scores and pattern scores include non‐Bayes maximum likelihood and test characteristic curve estimators and Bayesian estimators. The psychometric properties investigated include reliability, conditional standard errors of measurement, and score distributions. Four real‐data examples include (a) effects of choice of estimator on score distributions and percent proficient, (b) effects of the prior distribution on score distributions and percent proficient, (c) effects of test length on score distributions and percent proficient, and (d) effects of proficiency estimator on growth‐related statistics for a vertical scale. The examples illustrate that the choice of estimator influences score distributions and the assignment of examinee to proficiency levels. In particular, for the examples studied, the choice of Bayes versus non‐Bayes estimators had a more serious practical effect than the choice of summed versus pattern scoring.
A Snapshot of Industry and Academic Professional Activities, Compensation, and Engagement in Educational Measurement
Authors: Packman Sheryl , Camara Wayne J. , Huff Kristen
Published: September 2010

This paper provides a snapshot of educational measurement professionals—their educational, professional and demographic backgrounds, as well as their workplace settings, job tasks, professional involvement, and compensation practices. Two previous studies have surveyed employers, but this is the first attempt to conduct a comprehensive survey of measurement professionals. Five hundred and forty‐two (31.5% response rate) measurement professionals, the vast majority who held a doctorate degree, responded to the survey from January to April 2007. Overall, these individuals were primarily employed in academic settings, research and testing organizations, and educational or governmental agencies. Results were reported across and within work setting, degree, and other demographic and background factors that may influence work, behavior, and compensation in educational measurement and assessment.
Measurement Invariance in Confirmatory Factor Analysis: An Illustration Using IQ Test Performance of Minorities
Authors: Wicherts Jelte M. , Dolan Conor V.
Published: September 2010

Measurement invariance with respect to groups is an essential aspect of the fair use of scores of intelligence tests and other psychological measurements. It is widely believed that equal factor loadings are sufficient to establish measurement invariance in confirmatory factor analysis. Here, it is shown why establishing measurement invariance with confirmatory factor analysis requires a statistical test of the equality over groups of measurement intercepts. Without this essential test, measurement bias may be overlooked. A re‐analysis of a study by Te Nijenhuis, Tolboom, Resing, and Bleichrodt (2004) on ethnic differences on the RAKIT IQ test illustrates that ignoring intercept differences may lead to the conclusion that bias of IQ tests with respect to minorities is small, while in reality bias is quite severe.
DETECTION OF THE INDIGENOUS SALMONELLA LEVEL IN A RADIATION‐STERILIZED PURE CULTURE AND MEAT MODEL SYSTEM
Authors: KIM DONG HO , YUN HYE‐JEONG , LEE WOO‐YIEL , JO CHEORUN
Published: September 2010

The quantitative detection of the radiation‐sterilized Salmonella typhimurium in a pure culture and ground beef, pork and chicken meat model system was evaluated using a visual immunoprecipitate (VIP) assay kit and an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The VIP kit and ELISA detected 105 cells/mL or above of the enriched culture of S. typhimurium, and the detection limit of the irradiated Salmonella was comparable to that of the intact cells. There was no significant difference between the detection limit of the enriched culture and that of inoculated and irradiated S. typhimurium in model system of ground beef, pork and chicken. Irradiation did not give any effect on the immunochemical detection of S. typhimurium within a dose of 5 kGy; therefore, an immunodetection method may be a simple way for the quantitative analysis of the indigenous microbes in a radiation‐sterilized food.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

One of the consumers' concerns about food irradiation technology is the abuse of the technology to sterilize food products without meeting the hygienic standard such as good manufacturing practice before irradiation of food. A simple method to detect the indigenous microorganism level before irradiation process is tested as a quality assurance measure using a pure culture of Salmonella typhimurium and inoculated meat model system. This simple test will be helpful by providing a trust for both consumer and manufacturer to verify that their products are produced under hygienic standard before irradiation treatment.
EFFECT OF LACTATE ENHANCEMENT ON MYOGLOBIN OXYGENATION OF BEEF LONGISSIMUS STEAKS OVERWRAPPED IN PVC AND STORED AT 4C
Authors: RAMANATHAN R. , MANCINI R.A. , KONDA M.K.R.
Published: September 2010

Injection enhancement with lactate darkens beef; however, the mechanism is unclear. Our objective was to assess the effects of lactate on beef myoglobin oxygenation. Nine strip loins were divided in half and one of three injection treatments (negative control − not injected, positive control − injected with water, and 3% lactate − injected with a water solution of lactate) was assigned to each half using an incomplete block design. Positive control and 3% lactate loins were pumped to 110% of green weight, cut into 2.54‐cm thick steaks, overwrapped in polyvinyl chloride and stored at 4C. Steak surface darkening (L*), color stability (a* and metmyoglobin‐reducing activity), depth of oxygen penetration and myoglobin oxygenation (1 h at 4C) were evaluated on days 0, 7 and 12 of storage. Lactate darkened color, decreased surface myoglobin oxygenation and limited oxygen penetration compared with controls (P < 0.05). Color stability was improved (P < 0.05) by lactate injection. The darkening effect of lactate may be associated with decreased myoglobin oxygenation.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Case‐ready packaging has allowed beef purveyors to enhance meat with various ingredients, resulting in increased color and shelf life. Lactate is added as an antimicrobial agent; however, this beneficial effect can be somewhat diminished by lactate‐induced darkening. Research assessing the mechanism(s) of lactate‐induced beef color darkening is limited with previous research focused on determining the mechanism of lactate‐induced color stability. The current research will give a better understanding of the role of lactate as an ingredient in beef steak darkening and, thus, provide a foundation that can be used to develop strategies to improve meat color.
EFFECT OF APPLE POLYPHENOL ON OXIDATIVE STABILITY OF SLICED COOKED CURED BEEF AND PORK HAMS DURING CHILLED STORAGE
Authors: SUN W.Q. , ZHANG Y.J. , ZHOU G.H. , XU X.L. , PENG Z.Q.
Published: September 2010

The effects of apple polyphenol (AP) on color, lipid and protein oxidation in sliced cooked cured hams (SCCHs) made of pork and beef during chilled storage were investigated. SCCH samples with no antioxidant added and those treated with vitamin C were used as controls. The results indicated that addition of 500 ppm AP to the samples significantly inhibited discoloration in pork SCCH, but not in beef; all the AP treatments (with 300, 500 and 1,000 ppm AP) successfully inhibited lipid oxidation of both pork and beef SCCHs with the lipid of pork SCCH more effectively protected than that of beef SCCH. However, no effect on protein oxidation as measured carbonyl group accumulation was observed in both pork and beef SCCH treated with AP at the dose used in this study. AP was generally an effective antioxidant.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The results of the present study indicate that apple polyphenol (AP) may be used to retain the quality of hams in chilled storage and of other meat products in quality storage. However, different concentrations of AP have different effects on stored meat products, and the same concentration of AP may produce different effects on different meat products. Therefore, a test should be performed before application of AP to a specific meat product in meat industry.