bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Venlafaxine monotherapy in bipolar type II depressed patients unresponsive to prior lithium monotherapy
Authors: Amsterdam J. D. , Wang G. , Shults J. 
Published: August 2009

Amsterdam JD, Wang G, Shults J. Venlafaxine monotherapy in bipolar type II depressed patients unresponsive to prior lithium monotherapy.Objective:  We examine the safety and efficacy of venlafaxine monotherapy in bipolar type II (BP II) patients with major depressive episode (MDE) who were unresponsive to prior lithium monotherapy. We hypothesized that venlafaxine would be superior to lithium with a low hypomanic conversion rate.Method:  Seventeen patients who were unresponsive to prior lithium monotherapy were crossed to venlafaxine monotherapy for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was within‐subject change in total Hamilton Depression Rating (HAM‐D) score over time. Secondary outcomes included the change in Young Mania Rating (YMRS) and clinical global impressions severity (CGI/S) and change (CGI/C) scores.Results:  Venlafaxine produced significantly greater reductions in HAM‐D (P < 0.0005), CGI/S (P < 0.0005), and CGI/C (P < 0.0005) scores vs. prior lithium. There was no difference in mean YMRS scores between treatment conditions (P = 0.179).Conclusion:  Venlafaxine monotherapy may be a safe and effective monotherapy of BP II MDE with a low hypomanic conversion rate in lithium non‐responders.
Effects of a yoga breath intervention alone and in combination with an exposure therapy for post‐traumatic stress disorder and depression in survivors of the 2004 South‐East Asia tsunami
Authors: Descilo T. , Vedamurtachar A. , Gerbarg P. L. , Nagaraja D. , Gangadhar B. N. , Damodaran B. , Adelson B. , Braslow L. H. , Marcus S. , Brown R. P. 
Published: August 2009

Descilo T, Vedamurtachar A, Gerbarg PL, Nagaraja D, Gangadhar BN, Damodaran B, Adelson B, Braslow LH, Marcus S, Brown RP. Effects of a yoga breath intervention alone and in combination with an exposure therapy for PTSD and depression in survivors of the 2004 South‐East Asia tsunami.Objective:  This study evaluated the effect of a yoga breath program alone and followed by a trauma reduction exposure technique on post‐traumatic stress disorder and depression in survivors of the 2004 Asian tsunami.Method:  In this non‐randomized study, 183 tsunami survivors who scored 50 or above on the Post‐traumatic Checklist‐17 (PCL‐17) were assigned by camps to one of three groups: yoga breath intervention, yoga breath intervention followed by 3–8 h of trauma reduction exposure technique or 6‐week wait list. Measures for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PCL‐17) and depression (BDI‐21) were performed at baseline and at 6, 12 and 24 weeks. Data were analyzed using anova and mixed effects regression.Results:  The effect of treatment vs. control was significant at 6 weeks (F2,178 = 279.616, P < 0.001): mean PCL‐17 declined by 42.5 ± 10.0 SD with yoga breath, 39.2 ± 17.2 with Yoga breath + exposure and 4.6 ± 13.2 in the control.Conclusion:  Yoga breath‐based interventions may help relieve psychological distress following mass disasters.
Superficial leiomyosarcoma: a clinicopathologic review and update
Authors: Fauth Clarissa T. , Bruecks Andrea Kristin , Temple Walley , Arlette John P. , DiFrancesco Lisa Marie 
Published: August 2009

Fauth CT, Bruecks AK, Temple W, Arlette JP, DiFrancesco LM. Superficial leiomyosarcoma: a clinicopathologic review and update. Background: Superficial leiomyosarcomas (SLMSs) are rare soft tissue malignancies. A clinicopathologic review of 25 cases was undertaken. Methods: Twenty‐five cases diagnosed between 1990 and 2007 were reviewed. Clinical information was obtained from patient charts. Histologic slides were reviewed, and immunohistochemical stains were performed. Results: All patients presented with a nodule. Fourteen tumors were confined to the dermis and 11 involved subcutaneous tissue. Smooth muscle markers were positive in all cases. CD117 was consistently negative. Novel histological features included epidermal hyperplasia, sclerotic collagen bands and increasing tumor grade with the depth of the lesion. Poor outcome was associated with size > 2 cm, high grade and depth of the lesion. Conclusions: SLMSs are rare but important smooth muscle tumors of the skin. The clinical presentation may be non‐specific. The histologic appearance is that of a smooth muscle lesion, but epidermal hyperplasia and thickened collagen bands are previously underrecognized features. Immunohistochemical stains are useful in confirming smooth muscle differentiation, but CD117 is of limited utility. SLMS can appear low grade or even benign on superficial biopsies, leading to undergrading or a delay in the correct diagnosis. Clinicians and pathologists alike should therefore be aware of these pitfalls and must approach these cases with caution.
Static species distribution models in dynamically changing systems: how good can predictions really be?
Authors: Zurell Damaris , Jeltsch Florian , Dormann Carsten F. , Schröder Boris 
Published: August 2009

It is widely acknowledged that species respond to climate change by range shifts. Robust predictions of such changes in species’ distributions are pivotal for conservation planning and policy making, and are thus major challenges in ecological research. Statistical species distribution models (SDMs) have been widely applied in this context, though they remain subject to criticism as they implicitly assume equilibrium, and incorporate neither dispersal, demographic processes nor biotic interactions explicitly. In this study, the effects of transient dynamics and ecological properties and processes on the prediction accuracy of SDMs for climate change projections were tested. A spatially explicit multi‐species dynamic population model was built, incorporating species‐specific and interspecific ecological processes, environmental stochasticity and climate change. Species distributions were sampled in different scenarios, and SDMs were estimated by applying generalised linear models (GLMs) and boosted regression trees (BRTs). Resulting model performances were related to prevailing ecological processes and temporal dynamics.SDM performance varied for different range dynamics. Prediction accuracies decreased when abrupt range shifts occurred as species were outpaced by the rate of climate change, and increased again when a new equilibrium situation was realised. When ranges contracted, prediction accuracies increased as the absences were predicted well. Far‐dispersing species were faster in tracking climate change, and were predicted more accurately by SDMs than short‐dispersing species. BRTs mostly outperformed GLMs. The presence of a predator, and the inclusion of its incidence as an environmental predictor, made BRTs and GLMs perform similarly.Results are discussed in light of other studies dealing with effects of ecological traits and processes on SDM performance. Perspectives are given on further advancements of SDMs and for possible interfaces with more mechanistic approaches in order to improve predictions under environmental change.
The denture hygiene, denture stomatitis and role of dental hygienist
Authors: Sadig W 
Published: August 2009

To cite this article:

Int J Dent Hygiene 8, 2010; 227–231 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2009.00413.x Sadig W. The denture hygiene, denture stomatitis and role of dental hygienist.Abstract:  Objectives:  Denture induced stomatitis (DIS) affects a large number of denture wearer patients, particularly elderly people. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of DIS among a sample of denture wearers attending a teaching hospital, in relation to denture hygiene level and method, age, gender, objective and subjective severity of the lesion.Materials and methods:  A total of 71 denture wearers were systemically interviewed and clinically examined by the same operator of their oral mucosal health and the denture hygiene practice. A questionnaire, including 20 questions was used in this study.Results:  The results showed an incidence of DIS in both arches of 62% with no difference between the maxillary and mandibular arches. Denture hygiene within patients was good by 21.1%, of the sample, fair by 43.6% and poor by 35.2%. Another finding proved the incidence of DIS to be higher (Rev‐1 + Rev‐2) in elderly patients and a significant association was found between the presence of DIS and denture hygiene habits and sleeping with dentures (P < 0.05), with no differences related to gender.Conclusions:  Results indicated that the predisposing factors to DIS are associated with the method of denture hygiene methods and use of denture while sleeping.Clinical significance:  Dentists and dental hygienists should bear the responsibility by routinely providing post‐placement denture hygiene instructions to educate and motivate the patient.
Dual mitochondrial localization and different roles of the reversible reaction of mammalian ferrochelatase
Authors: Sakaino Masayoshi , Ishigaki Mutsumi , Ohgari Yoshiko , Kitajima Sakihito , Masaki Ryuichi , Yamamoto Akitsugu , Taketani Shigeru 
Published: August 2009

Ferrochelatase catalyzes the insertion of ferrous ions into protoporphyrin IX to produce heme. Previously, it was found that this enzyme also participates in the reverse reaction of iron removal from heme. To clarify the role of the reverse reaction of ferrochelatase in cells, mouse liver mitochondria were fractionated to examine the localization of ferrochelatase, and it was found that the enzyme localizes not only to the inner membrane, but also to the outer membrane. Observations by immunoelectron microscopy confirmed the dual localization of ferrochelatase in ferrochelatase‐expressing human embryonic kidney cells and mouse liver mitochondria. The conventional (zinc‐insertion) activities of the enzyme in the inner and outer membranes were similar, whereas the iron‐removal activity was high in the outer membrane. 2D gel analysis revealed that two types of the enzyme with different isoelectric points were present in mitochondria, and the acidic form, which was enriched in the outer membrane, was found to be phosphorylated. Mutation of human ferrochelatase showed that serine residues at positions 130 and 303 were phosphorylated, and serine at position 130 may be involved in the balance of the reversible catalytic reaction. When mouse erythroleukemia cells were treated with 12‐O‐tetradecanoyl‐phorbol 13‐acetate, an activator of protein kinase C, or hemin, phospho‐ferrochelatase levels increased, with a concomitant decrease in zinc‐insertion activity and a slight increase in iron‐removal activity. These results suggest that ferrochelatase localizes to both the mitochondrial outer and inner membranes and that the change in the equilibrium position of the forward and reverse activities may be regulated by the phosphorylation of ferrochelatase.Structured digital abstract
MINT‐7233234: Ferrochelatase (uniprotkb:P22315), Abcb7 (uniprotkb:Q61102) and b5 reductase (uniprotkb:Q9DCN2) colocalize (MI:0403) by cosedimentation through density gradients (MI:0029)
MINT‐7233207: b5 reductase (uniprotkb:Q9DCN2), COXIV (uniprotkb:P19783), Abcb7 (uniprotkb:Q61102) and Ferrochelatase (uniprotkb:P22315) colocalize (MI:0403) by cosedimentation through density gradients (MI:0029)
MINT‐7233195: ATP synthase (uniprotkb:Q50DL5) and Ferrochelatase (uniprotkb:P22315) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)
Review article: Inotrope and vasopressor use in the emergency department
Authors: Senz Ainslie , Nunnink Leo 
Published: August 2009

AbstractShock is a common presentation to the ED, with the incidence of septic shock increasing in Australasia over the last decade. The choice of inotropic agent is likely dependent on previous experience and local practices of the emergency and other critical care departments. The relatively short duration of stay in the ED before transfer leaves little room for evaluating the appropriateness of and response to the agent chosen. Delays in transfer to inpatient facilities means that patients receive advanced critical care within the ED for longer, requiring initiation and titration of vasoactive agents in the ED. This article discusses the general concepts of shock and the indicators for inotrope and vasopressor use, revises the various agents available and reviews the current evidence for their use.
Identification and Functional Characterization of microRNAs Involved in the Malignant Progression of Gliomas
Authors: Malzkorn Bastian , Wolter Marietta , Liesenberg Franziska , Grzendowski Michael , Stühler Kai , Meyer Helmut E. , Reifenberger Guido 
Published: August 2009

AbstractDiffuse astrocytoma of World Health Organization (WHO) grade II has an inherent tendency to spontaneously progress to anaplastic astrocytoma WHO grade III or secondary glioblastoma WHO grade IV. We explored the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in glioma progression by investigating the expression profiles of 157 miRNAs in four patients with primary WHO grade II gliomas that spontaneously progressed to WHO grade IV secondary glioblastomas. Thereby, we identified 12 miRNAs (miR‐9, miR‐15a, miR‐16, miR‐17, miR‐19a, miR‐20a, miR‐21, miR‐25, miR‐28, miR‐130b, miR‐140 and miR‐210) showing increased expression, and two miRNAs (miR‐184 and miR‐328) showing reduced expression upon progression. Validation experiments on independent series of primary low‐grade and secondary high‐grade astrocytomas confirmed miR‐17 and miR‐184 as promising candidates, which were selected for functional analyses. These studies revealed miRNA‐specific influences on the viability, proliferation, apoptosis and invasive growth properties of A172 and T98G glioma cells in vitro. Using mRNA and protein expression profiling, we identified distinct sets of transcripts and proteins that were differentially expressed after inhibition of miR‐17 or overexpression of miR‐184 in glioma cells. Taken together, our results support an important role of altered miRNA expression in gliomas, and suggest miR‐17 and miR‐184 as interesting candidates contributing to glioma progression.
The treatment of faecal incontinence following ileostomy takedown after rectal surgery for cancer
Authors: Attene Federico , Scognamillo Fabrizio , Xidas Andreas , Pala Carlo , Serventi Fernando , Trignano Mario Piero 
Published: August 2009

Aim. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of rehabilitative treatment of the pelvic floor on faecal incontinence after ileostomy take‐down.Background. Several conditions can induce surgeons to fashion an excluding ileostomy. In our experience 40% of patients subjected to ileostomy takedown refer faecal incontinence which becomes a chronic condition if not treated.Design. Between 2006 and 2008 we observed fourteen patients with faecal incontinence after ileostomy takedown. Previous manometric assessment of the pelvic floor functionality they underwent rehabilitative treatment by electrostimulation of the anal sphincter.Methods. The rehabilitation program was organised in 10 sessions each of 15 minutes. In each session a double electrode probe was introduced through the anus which is able to conduct electric impulses at a frequency of 75 Hz with an intensity of 15–50 mA and duration of 150 μs.Results. All patients showed important clinical and manometric improvement. Three patients needed a second rehabilitative treatment with subsequent clinical resolution of faecal incontinence.Conclusions. Improvement in all patients was found although the data are not statistically significant. Consideration of social and psychological implications of treatments is important. Patients need to acquire full control of their body and its functions. Considering that faecal incontinence is a pathology with high social costs it appears necessary to establish an effective and repeatable method of treatment. Electric stimulation seems to be the most adequate tool for this purpose.Relevance to clinical practice. The standardisation of parameters in the treatment protocol of incontinence could allow to extend this therapy to a lot of colo‐proctological units.
Exploring people’s perceptions of a pulmonary rehabilitation program and maintenance options
Authors: Sinnerton Janet , Gillen Patricia 
Published: August 2009

Aim and objectives.  To explore patients’ experience of a pulmonary rehabilitation and maintenance programme.Background.  Pulmonary rehabilitation has established efficacy, but people often require follow‐up care or maintenance. There are few studies that explore the patients’ experience of pulmonary rehabilitation and maintenance. In addition, there are no guidelines for health professionals as to what constitutes effective maintenance for patients who complete pulmonary rehabilitation.Design.  An exploratory descriptive design.Methods.  Focus group interviews were used to collect data from participants (n = 25) during 2006 who had completed a six‐week pulmonary rehabilitation programme within the previous year.Results.  Participants described individual outcomes that confirm the physical and psychological benefits of completing pulmonary rehabilitation. Group motivation and peer support were viewed as essential dynamics for maintenance activities.Conclusion.  There is a deficit in guidelines as to what constitutes effective maintenance and this presents a challenge for future research. Inclusion of the patient in service provision and delivery has the potential to influence future pulmonary rehabilitation and maintenance programmes.Relevance to clinical practice.  Patients’ experience of outcomes and expectations has the potential to influence future services.
Improving end‐of‐life care for non‐cancer patients in hospitals: description of a continuous quality improvement initiative
Authors: Woo Jean , Lo Raymond SK , Lee Jenny , Cheng Joanna OY , Lum Christopher M , Hui Elsie , Wong Florens , Yeung Fai , Or Kevin KH 
Published: August 2009

Aim and objectives.  To describe a continuous quality improvement initiative that aimed to improve the quality of end‐of‐life care for non‐cancer patients.Background.  In spite of the importance given to improving end‐of‐life care for non‐cancer patients in the context of national health policies as well as guidelines of various professional bodies, there is a gap between articulation of the need for better care and the actual care patients receive. By analyzing this gap, a better understanding of potential barriers to improving care may contribute to planning of services.Design.  A continuous quality improvement initiative was developed in 2008 to document barriers encountered to quality end‐of‐life care for people with non‐cancer conditions and measures to overcome them were implemented.Method.  The continuous improvement initiative consisted of a culture change in a hospital setting and development of guidelines and care protocols, with continual feedback to plan the next step, constituting in a series of incremental changes.Results.  There was a reluctance to talk to relatives and patients about death. Staff held perceptions that such communications are mainly concerned with psychological, spiritual or religious matters that are best left to ‘trained’ personnel and that it equated with terminal care. The need to create an opportunity for patients and relatives to express their wishes regarding end of life situations was not well understood.Conclusion.  We have demonstrated that this approach of continuous improvement through incremental change with feedback and continuing education is feasible. To achieve improvement, a culture change is needed in addition to distributing pathways and guidelines.Relevance to clinical practice.  This integrative approach may be the way forward for the organisation of end‐of‐life care for patients with non‐cancer chronic diseases, rather than the setting up of many specialised palliative care teams.
Twitter as a tool for delivering improved quality of life for people with chronic conditions
Authors: Pulman Andy 
Published: August 2009

Aims and objectives.  This article discusses the changing nature of healthcare to a more transparent personalised delivery model and examines the rise in the use of blogging and microblogging by people with chronic conditions. It then explores how the use of the microblogging tool Twitter could be effective as a means of delivering improved Quality of Life for people with chronic conditions.Background.  Global healthcare systems face increasing demands for better service and more information. Twitter is a free microblogging application providing users with the ability to communicate through the exchange of answers to the question: What are you doing? It has evolved beyond this base functionality to provide a variety of alternate uses, some of which are health related and which might offer opportunities in relation to improving health and quality of life.Data sources.  A thorough literature review of relevant journals, Internet sources and Twitter itself was undertaken. This looked at the use of microblogging tools for health‐related subjects with a particular focus on chronic conditions. The review provided a comprehensive foundation for the paper; however, it is acknowledged that as this nascent technology is particularly fast moving, further advances and uses might have taken place since it was written.Conclusion.  Twitter is an ideal candidate for delivering and constituting improved Quality of Life. It could cultivate and inspire private, focused group conversations between people with chronic conditions and offer an effective targeted information channel for practitioners.Relevance to clinical practice.  Current definitions concerning the integration of health information and support with Web 2·0 technology are primarily concerned with approaches from a healthcare or medical perspective, which do not effectively consider how this might work from the viewpoint of the patient. There is a need to design a patient centered framework, encapsulating the use of Web 2·0 technology for people with long‐term conditions who might want to support, mitigate or improve their own quality of life. This leads to questions as to which technology working within this framework might impact on health‐related quality of life, how might it be satisfactorily measured and whether its use could be effectively translated into a noticeable improvement in the quality of life of individuals with long‐term conditions.