Home About us Contact
|
Home About us Contact | ||
|
|
||
Background Data (background + data)
Selected AbstractsResection prior to liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: A strategy of optimizing the role of resection and transplantation in cirrhotic patients with preserved liver functionLIVER TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 6 2004FRCS (Edin), Ronnie T. Poon MS Objective To evaluate the feasibility and postoperative course of liver transplantation (LT) in cirrhotic patients who underwent liver resection prior to LT for HCC. Summary Background Data Although LT provides longer survival than liver resection for treatment of small HCCs, donor shortage and long LT wait time may argue against LT. The feasibility and survival following LT after hepatic resection have not been previously examined. Methods Between 1991 and 2001, among 107 patients who underwent LT for HCC, 88 met Mazzafero's criteria upon pathologic analysis of the explant. Of these, 70 underwent primary liver transplantation (PLT) and 18 liver resection prior to secondary liver transplantation (SLT) for recurrence (n = 11), deterioration of liver function (n = 4), or high risk for recurrence (n = 3). Perioperative and postoperative factors and long-term survival were compared. Results Comparison of PLT and SLT groups at the time of LT revealed similar median age (53 vs. 55 years), sex, and etiology of liver disease (alcohol/viral B/C/other). In the SLT group, the mean time between liver resection and listing for LT was 20 months (range 1-84 months). Overall time on LT waiting list of the two groups was similar (3 vs. 5 months). Pathologic analysis after LT revealed similar tumor size (2.2 vs. 2.3 cm) and number (1.6 vs. 1.7). Perioperative and postoperative courses were not different in terms of operative time (551 vs. 530 minutes), blood loss (1191 vs. 1282 mL), transfusion (3 vs. 2 units), ICU (9 vs. 10 days) or hospital stay (32 vs. 31 days), morbidity (51% vs. 56%) or 30-day mortality (5.7% vs. 5.6%). During a median follow-up of 32 months (3 to 158 months), 3 patients recurred after PLT and one after SLT. After transplantation, 3- and 5-year overall survivals were not different between groups (82 vs. 82% and 59 vs. 61%). Conclusions In selected patients, liver resection prior to transplantation does not increase the morbidity or impair long-term survival following LT. Therefore, liver resection prior to transplantation can be integrated in the treatment strategy for HCC. (Ann Surg 2003;238:885,893.) (Liver Transpl 2004;10:813,815.) [source] Molecular cytogenetic analysis of cutaneous T-cell lymphomas: identification of common genetic alterations in Sézary syndrome and mycosis fungoidesBRITISH JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2002X. Mao Summary Background Data on genome-wide surveys for chromosome aberrations in primary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) are limited. Objectives To investigate genetic aberrations in CTCL. Methods We analysed 18 cases of Sézary syndrome (SS) and 16 cases of mycosis fungoides (MF) by comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) analysis, and correlated findings with the results of additional conventional cytogenetics, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) and allelotyping studies. Results CGH analysis showed chromosome imbalances (CIs) in 19 of 34 CTCL cases (56%). The mean ±,SD number of CIs per sample was 1·8 ± 2·4, with losses (1·2 ± 2·0) slightly more frequent than gains (0·6 ± 1·0). The most frequent losses involved chromosomes 1p (38%), 17p (21%), 10q/10 (15%) and 19 (15%), with minimal regions of deletion at 1p31p36 and 10q26. The commonly detected chromosomal gains involved 4/4q (18%), 18 (15%) and 17q/17 (12%). Both SS and late stages of MF showed a similar pattern of CIs, but no chromosomal changes were found in three patients with T1 stage MF. Of the 18 SS cases also analysed by cytogenetics, seven showed clonal chromosome abnormalities (39%). Five cases had structural aberrations affecting chromosomes 10 and 17, four demonstrated rearrangement of 1p and three revealed an abnormality of either 6q or 14q consistent with CGH findings. FISH analysis showed chromosome 1p and 17q rearrangements in five of 15 SS cases, and chromosome 10 abnormalities in four SS cases consistent with both the G-banded karyotype and the CGH results. In addition, allelotyping analysis of 33 MF patients using chromosome 1 markers suggested minimal regions of deletion at D1S228 (1p36), D1S2766 (1p22) and D1S397 (1q25). Conclusions These findings provide a comprehensive assessment of genetic abnormalities in CTCL and a rational approach for further studies. [source] Should children with a history of anaphylaxis to foods undergo challenge testing?CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGY, Issue 12 2008B. J. Vlieg-Boerstra Summary Background Data on the frequency of resolution of anaphylaxis to foods are not available, but such resolution is generally assumed to be rare. Objective To determine whether the frequency of negative challenge tests in children with a history of anaphylaxis to foods is frequent enough to warrant challenge testing to re-evaluate the diagnosis of anaphylaxis, and to document the safety of this procedure. Methods All children (n=441) who underwent a double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge (DBPCFC) between January 2003 and March 2007 were screened for symptoms of anaphylaxis to food by history. Anaphylaxis was defined as symptoms and signs of cardiovascular instability, occurring within 2 h after ingestion of the suspected food. Results Twenty-one children were enrolled (median age 6.1 years, range 0.8,14.4). The median time interval between the most recent anaphylactic reaction and the DBPCFC was 4.25 years, range 0.3,12.8. Twenty-one DBPCFCs were performed in 21 children. Eighteen of 21 children were sensitized to the food in question. Six DBPCFCs were negative (29%): three for cows milk, one for egg, one for peanut, and one for wheat. In the positive DBPCFCs, no severe reactions occurred, and epinephrine administration was not required. Conclusions This is the first study using DBPCFCs in a consecutive series of children with a history of anaphylaxis to foods, and no indications in dietary history that the food allergy had been resolved. Our study shows that in such children having specific IgE levels below established cut-off levels reported in other studies predicting positive challenge outcomes, re-evaluation of clinical reactivity to food by DBPCFC should be considered, even when there are no indications in history that anaphylaxis has resolved. DBPCFCs can be performed safely in these children, although there is a potential risk for severe reactions. [source] Indicators Nurses Employ in Deciding to Test for HyperbilirubinemiaJOURNAL OF OBSTETRIC, GYNECOLOGIC & NEONATAL NURSING, Issue 6 2001Anita J. Gagnon RN Objective: To identify the indicators nurses employ in deciding to test healthy full-term newborns for total serum bilirubin in the absence of a written protocol. Design: Secondary analysis of data available on 130 mother-newborn pairs and informal interviews of 30 postpartum unit nurses. Setting: Two university teaching hospitals. Participants: All tested newborns and a 33% random sample of remaining newborns from a control group data set created during a previous study and a convenience sample of postpartum nurses from all shifts. Measurement: Outcome data were obtained from a review of records. Background data were obtained from a review of records and questionnaires. Nurse data were obtained through a modified form of participant observation. Results: Ninety-one percent of newborns tested for bilirubin were tested unnecessarily. In logistic regression analyses, variables predictive of nurse-driven total serum bilirubin testing were presence of jaundice, odds ratio (OR) = 31.95 (95% confidence interval, 6.71, 152.03), and feeding frequency, OR = 0.28 (0.11, 0.72). Identifying both presence and location of jaundice simultaneously did not significantly predict testing, OR = 1.82 (0.66, 5.04). Fifty-three percent of nurses who were interviewed identified both the presence of jaundice and feeding as indicators to consider for testing. Conclusion: Newborns are overtested for bilirubin. Indicators used by nurses in deciding to test a healthy newborn for total serum bilirubin are the presence of jaundice and feeding frequency. Nurses who assess feeding frequency are less likely to order bilirubin testing. [source] Estimation of regional material yield from coastal landslides based on historical digital terrain modelling,EARTH SURFACE PROCESSES AND LANDFORMS, Issue 6 2005C. J. Hapke Abstract High-resolution historical (1942) and recent (1994) digital terrain models were derived from aerial photographs along the Big Sur coastline in central California to measure the long-term volume of material that enters the nearshore environment. During the 52-year measurement time period, an average of 21 000 ± 3100 m3 km,1 a,1 of material was eroded from nine study sections distributed along the coast, with a low yield of 1000 ± 240 m3 km,1 a,1 and a high of 46 700 ± 7300 m3 km,1 a,1. The results compare well with known volumes from several deep-seated landslides in the area and suggest that the processes by which material is delivered to the coast are episodic in nature. In addition, a number of parameters are investigated to determine what influences the substantial variation in yield along the coast. It is found that the magnitude of regional coastal landslide sediment yield is primarily related to the physical strength of the slope-forming material. Coastal Highway 1 runs along the lower portion of the slope along this stretch of coastline, and winter storms frequently damage the highway. The California Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining this scenic highway while minimizing the impacts to the coastal ecosystems that are part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. This study provides environmental managers with critical background data on the volumes of material that historically enter the nearshore from landslides, as well as demonstrating the application of deriving historical digital terrain data to model landscape evolution. Published in 2005 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Transferability, sample selection bias and background data in presence-only modelling: a response to Peterson et al. (2007)ECOGRAPHY, Issue 2 2008Steven J. PhillipsArticle first published online: 28 MAR 200 First page of article [source] Hair growth inhibition by psychoemotional stress: a mouse model for neural mechanisms in hair growth controlEXPERIMENTAL DERMATOLOGY, Issue 1 2006Eva M. J. Peters Abstract:, Stress has long been discussed controversially as a cause of hair loss. However, solid proof of stress-induced hair growth inhibition had long been missing. If psychoemotional stress can affect hair growth, this must be mediated via definable neurorendocrine and/or neuroimmunological signaling pathways. Revisiting and up-dating relevant background data on neural mechanisms of hair growth control, we sketch essentials of hair follicle (HF) neurobiology and discuss the modulation of murine hair growth by neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, neurotrophins, and mast cells. Exploiting an established mouse model for stress, we summarize recent evidence that sonic stress triggers a cascade of molecular events including plasticity of the peptidergic peri- and interfollicular innervation and neuroimmune crosstalk. Substance P (SP) and NGF (nerve growth factor) are recruited as key mediators of stress-induced hair growth-inhibitory effects. These effects include perifollicular neurogenic inflammation, HF keratinocyte apoptosis, inhibition of proliferation within the HF epithelium, and premature HF regression (catagen induction). Intriguingly, most of these effects can be abrogated by treatment of stressed mice with SP-receptor neurokinin-1 receptor (NK-1) antagonists or NGF-neutralizing antibodies , as well as, surprisingly, by topical minoxidil. Thus there is now solid in vivo -evidence for the existence of a defined brain- HF axis. This axis can be utilized by psychoemotional and other stressors to prematurely terminate hair growth. Stress-induced hair growth inhibition can therefore serve as a highly instructive model for exploring the brain-skin connection and provides a unique experimental model for dissecting general principles of skin neuroendocrinology and neuroimmunology well beyond the HF. [source] Post pancreaticoduodenectomy haemorrhage: outcome prediction based on new ISGPS Clinical severity gradingHPB, Issue 5 2008G. Rajarathinam Abstract Objective & background data. Mortality following pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) has fallen below 5%, yet morbidity remains between 30 and 50%. Major haemorrhage following PD makes a significant contribution to this ongoing morbidity and mortality. The aim of the present study was to validate the new International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery (ISGPS) Clinical grading system in predicting the outcome of post pancreaticoduodenectomy haemorrhage (PPH). Material and methods. Between January 1998 and December 2007 a total of 458 patients who underwent Whipple's pancreaticoduodenectomy in our department were analysed with regard to haemorrhagic complications. The onset, location and severity of haemorrhage were classified according to the new criteria developed by an ISGPS. Risk factors for haemorrhage, management and outcome were analysed. Results. Severe PPH occurred in 14 patients (3.1%). Early haemorrhage (<24 hours) was recorded in five (36%) patients, and late haemorrhage (>24 hours) in nine (64%) patients. As per Clinical grading of ISGPS 7 (50%) belongs to Grade C and 7 (50%) belongs to Grade B. Haemostasis was attempted by surgery in 10 (71%) patients; angioembolisation was successful in two (14%) and endotherapy in one (7%) patient. The overall mortality is 29%(n=4). Age >60 years (p=0.02), sentinel bleeding (p=0.04), pancreatic leak (p=0.04) and ISGPS Clinical grade C (p=0.02) were associated with increased mortality. Conclusion. Early haemorrhage was mostly managed surgically with better outcome when endoscopy is not feasible. Late haemorrhage is associated with high mortality due to pancreatic leak and sepsis. ISGPS Clinical grading of PPH is useful in predicting the outcome. [source] Identification of Acipenseriformes species in tradeJOURNAL OF APPLIED ICHTHYOLOGY, Issue 2008A. Ludwig Summary Sturgeons and paddlefishes (Acipenseridae) are highly endangered freshwater fishes. Their eggs (sold as caviar) are one of the most valuable wildlife products in international trade. Concerns of overharvesting and the conservation status of many of the 27 extant species of Acipenseriformes led to all species being included on the CITES Appendices in 1998. Since then international trade in all products and parts from sturgeon and paddlefish has been regulated. However, despite the controls on trade, unsustainable harvesting continues to threaten many populations. Illegal fishing and trade continues to be a threat to the management of these fish. To enforce the regulation of legal trade and prevention of illegal trade, the development of a uniform identification system for parts and derivates of Acipenseriformes has been identified as an urgent requirement. Ideally this system should be suitable for (i) identification at the species-level of caviar and other products from Acipenseriformes; (ii) population identification; (iii) source identification (wild vs aquaculture); and (iv) determining the age of caviar because strict timeframes govern its international trade. This paper reviews the techniques currently available and their potential to be used in an identification system for Acipenseriformes species and their products in trade. A review of all available identification techniques has shown that there is not a single method that can meet all requirements (see i,iv), and it does not appear to be feasible to develop such a method in the near future therefore the most appropriate methods need to be developed for each. Considering the advantages and disadvantages of all techniques reviewed in this document, the following conclusions can be drawn: (i) for the identification of species, approaches are recommended that target mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences (RFLP, nested PCR or direct sequencing). However, they show limitations for the detection of hybrids (although natural hybrids are rare, the number of artificially produced hybrids in aquaculture is increasing) and for the differentiation of the following closely related species complexes: Acipenser gueldenstaedti,Acipenser baerii,Acipenser persicus,Acipenser naccarii; Acipenser medirostris,Acipenser mikadoi; and Scaphirhynchus albus,Scaphirhynchus plathorhynchus,Scaphirhynchus suttkusi; (ii) the identification of different populations of the same species is currently not feasible because genetic data are incomplete for most populations, and stocking and release programmes, which have become more and more common, often result in a mixture of phenotypes and genotypes, thereby impeding the creation and application of such a population identification system; (iii) source identification based on genetic approaches can be excluded at present because there are no genetic differences between wild and hatchery-raised fish. This is the result of the continuing restocking of natural populations with captive fish and vice versa. However, because rearing (i.e. environmental) conditions are different, methods focusing on differences in water quality or food seem to be more appropriate (for example differences in fatty acid composition). So far, very few studies have been conducted and therefore, source identification methods merit further exploration; and (iv) the age of a product in trade cannot be detected by DNA-based methods and protein profiling is undoubtedly impractical due to hard-to-perform, labour-and cost-intensive methods, which are highly susceptible to protein degradation. Arising from the limits discussed above, the next steps in the development of a uniform sturgeon identification system are proposed to be the following: (i) designation of qualified reference laboratories at national levels in (re-) exporting and importing countries. These should be approved through a standardized testing procedure, for instance a ring test on blind samples. Registered laboratories should be published and disseminated and their accreditations should be subject to certain guarantees regarding quality, economic independence and scientific rigour. Operational procedures have to be determined and standardized among reference laboratories; (ii) establishment of reference collections that are accessible to the reference laboratories containing DNA analyses results and information on the location and availability of tissue samples. This is highly recommended as an important step towards a population identification system and indispensable for a general species identification system; (iii) creation of a website access to the reference collections containing the reference database information about genetic samples, comparable to NCBI, which provides background data: sample location; population information; citation; available genetic data; location of archival storage; currently treated and distributed caviar and status of analysis. This website should also be a forum for the exchange of knowledge on and experiences with identification systems, species and population status information, relevant scientific research, etc.; and (iv) the outcome of the trade identification tests should be made available to the reference laboratories for future reference. The universal caviar labelling system could incorporate an indication of the verification of the consignment. In view of the lack of knowledge and the great need to develop a uniform identification system for Acipenseriformes with regard to the importance of the international caviar trade, further scientific guidance and appropriate research is strongly recommended. Progress should be assessed and exchanged on a regular basis. [source] Rituximab therapy for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: A proposed study of the Transfusion Medicine/Hemostasis Clinical Trials Network with a systematic review of rituximab therapy for immune-mediated disordersJOURNAL OF CLINICAL APHERESIS, Issue 1 2006James N. George Abstract The rationale for immunosuppressive therapy of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) was established by observations that TTP may be caused by autoantibodies to ADAMTS13. Patients with high-titer autoantibodies to ADAMTS13 may have a higher mortality, and survivors may require prolonged plasma exchange therapy in spite of adjunctive glucocorticoid treatment. More intensive immunosuppressive therapy with rituximab may provide benefit for many of these patients. The Transfusion Medicine/Hemostasis Clinical Trials Network is developing a randomized, clinical trial to test the hypothesis that addition of rituximab to standard treatment of TTP with plasma exchange and glucocorticoids will decrease initial treatment failure rates as well as subsequent relapses over the following 3 years. To provide the background data for this clinical trial, a systematic review of all published reports on rituximab treatment of immune-mediated disorders was performed. Twelve articles have reported 27 patients treated with rituximab for TTP, with benefit described in 25 (93%) of the patients. Additional reports have described rituximab treatment of 37 other immune-mediated disorders, with clinical response in most patients. These observations from small uncontrolled case series provide the background and rationale for a randomized clinical trial to establish the role of rituximab in the management of patients with TTP. J. Clin. Apheresis. 21: 49,56, 2006 © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Self-care in adults with asthma: how they copeJOURNAL OF CLINICAL NURSING, Issue 4 2000Satu MÄkinen MScN ,,The purpose of this study was to find out how well adult asthma patients in Finland cope with self-care in three areas of asthma treatment. The areas of physical, psychological and social asthma treatment were examined. Associations between demographic background data and self-care were also studied. ,,Data (n = 130) for the study were collected using a questionnaire specially developed for this study. A deductive perspective was employed in data analysis. ,,Respondents showed fairly good competence in self-care in all three areas of asthma treatment. However, up to 30% of the asthma patients had pets and 16% were smokers. ,,Extra stress was reduced by exercise and positive thinking. Humour was also important in helping most of the respondents cope mentally. ,,Social support played a significant part in fighting the sense of powerlessness which is caused by asthma. ,,According to the results, women coped better than men in the social area of self-care. [source] Effects of interval between diagnosis and time of survey upon preferred information format for prostate cancer patientsJOURNAL OF MEDICAL IMAGING AND RADIATION ONCOLOGY, Issue 2 2009CF Sharpley Summary Previous data indicate that receiving adequate information about their cancer can assist patients to cope with treatment and comply with treatment regimes. The aim of the present study was to determine whether time since diagnosis affected patients' evaluations of the information they had received at the time of their diagnosis. Two hundred and thirty-seven patients who had received a diagnosis and treatment for prostate cancer 4 months earlier completed a questionnaire about their ratings of, and preferences for, various types of information, their anxiety and depression levels and some background data. The most common and preferred form of information that the patients in the current study received was verbal information during an interview with their oncologist. Demographic factors and levels of anxiety and depression did not influence patient information preferences. Time since diagnosis was associated with elevated anxiety and depression, and consequent lower recall of having received information, but also with positive inflation of the value of the material that they did recall having received. Patients may not recall information given to them early after diagnosis and may make unreliable evaluations of its value to them due to psychological state. [source] Localization and changes of intraneural inflammatory cytokines and inducible-nitric oxide induced by mechanical compressionJOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 4 2005Shigeru Kobayashi Abstract Study design: Investigation of intraneural inflammation induced by mechanical compression. Objectives: In order to investigate the mechanism of neuropathy, this study used a median nerve compression model in dogs. Immunohistochemistry was used to examine the localization and changes of inflammatory cytokines and nitric oxide (NO). Summary of background data: The manifestation of pain at sites of inflammation has a close relationship with the release of mediators from macrophages such as interleulin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-, (TNF-,), as well as with NO. However, the mediators involved in inflammation of nerve due to mechanical compression remain almost unknown. Methods: In this study, the median nerve of dogs was compressed with a clip for three weeks to observe the changes caused by compression. Immunohistochemistry was done by the avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex method to observe the changes of T cells (CD45) and macrophages (Mac-1) after compression. Antibodies against IL-,, TNF-,, and inducible nitric oxide synthesis (i-NOS) were used to examine the localization and changes of these mediators caused by nerve compression. Results: In control animals, resident T cells were detected, but there were no macrophages. IL-1, was positive in the Schwann cells and vascular endothelial cells. However, no cells showed TNF-, or i-NOS positively. After nerve compression, numerous T cells and macrophages appeared among the demyelinized nerve fibers. The macrophages were positive for IL-1,, TNF-, and i-NOS. Conclusion: Inflammatory cytokines and NO may be involved in intraneural inflammatory changes arising from mechanical compression. Such mediators may be of importance in the manifestation of neuropathy. © 2005 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. [source] Pathology of lumbar nerve root compression Part 1: Intraradicular inflammatory changes induced by mechanical compressionJOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH, Issue 1 2004Shigeru Kobayashi Study design: This study is to investigate the intraradicular inflammation induced by mechanical compression using in vivo model. Objectives: The relationship between the intraradicular edema and nerve fiber degeneration induced by mechanical compression was determined in the nerve root. Summary of background data: Recently some studies reported that mechanical compression increased microvascular permeability of the endoneurial capillaries and resulted in an intraradicular inflammation. These changes may be an important factor of the pathogenesis of radiculopathy. However, the natural courses of the intraradicular inflammation after mechanical compression are still poorly understood. Methods: In dogs, laminectomy was performed at L7 and the seventh nerve root was exposed to compression at 7.5 gram force (gf) clipping power. The animals were evaluated at 1 and 3 weeks after clipping. After the appropriate period of nerve root compression, Evans blue albumin (EBA) was injected intravenously. The nerve root sections were divided into two groups. The sections were used to investigate the status of the blood,nerve barrier function under the fluorescence microscope. The other sections were used for light and transmission electron microscopic study. Results: After 1 and 3 weeks, intraradicular edema was observed not only at the site of compression but also in the peripheral zone of a compressed anterior root and in the central zone of a compressed posterior root. The evidence of active Wallerian degeneration was also seen in the area of intraradicular edema. In addition, the nerve roots showing Wallerian degeneration were infiltrated by inflammatory cells, such as macrophages and mast cells. Conclusions: Inflammatory reaction, such as Wallerian degeneration, breakdown of blood,nerve barrier and appearance of macrophage, may be deeply involved in radiculitis arising from mechanical compression, and these factors seem to be important in the manifestation of radiculopathy. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. [source] Antibiotic resistance in Listeria species isolated from catfish fillets and processing environmentLETTERS IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 6 2010B.-Y. Chen Abstract Aims:, To investigate the susceptibility of 221 Listeria spp. (86 Listeria monocytogenes, 41 Listeria innocua and 94 Listeria seeligeri-Listeria welshimeri-Listeria ivanovii) isolated from catfish fillets and processing environment to 15 antibiotics. Methods and Results:,Listeria isolates were analysed by disc-diffusion assay for their resistance to 15 drugs. All isolates were resistant to cefotaxime and clindamycin but were sensitive to ampicillin, cephalothin, chloramphenicol, erythromycin, gentamycin, kanamycin, rifampin, streptomycin, sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim and vancomycin. Unlike L. monocytogenes and L. seeligeri-L. welshimeri-L. ivanovii isolates, 22% of L. innocua isolates displayed tetracycline/oxytetracycline resistance. Screening of tet genes by PCR identified tet(M) gene in the chromosome of all tetracycline/oxytetracycline-resistant L. innocua. However, this gene was not associated with the integrase gene of Tn1545. Repetitive extragenic palindromic- and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus-PCR typing methods showed no genotype-specific tetracycline resistance in the tet(M)-positive strains. Conclusions:, Catfish fillets and processing environment were currently free of L. monocytogenes resistant to antibiotics commonly used in human listeriosis treatment. However, the presence of tet(M) gene in L. innocua raises the possibility of future acquisition of resistance by L. monocytogenes. Significance and Impact of the Study:, These data will be helpful in improving background data on antibiotics resistance strains isolated from food and processing environment. [source] Galaxy redshift surveys selected by neutral hydrogen using the Five-hundred metre Aperture Spherical TelescopeMONTHLY NOTICES OF THE ROYAL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY, Issue 1 2008Alan R. Duffy ABSTRACT We discuss the possibility of performing a substantial spectroscopic galaxy redshift survey selected via the 21-cm emission from neutral hydrogen using the Five-hundred metre Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST) to be built in China. We consider issues related to the estimation of the source counts and optimizations of the survey, and discuss the constraints on cosmological models that such a survey could provide. We find that a survey taking around two years could detect ,107 galaxies with an average redshift of ,0.15 making the survey complementary to those already carried out at optical wavelengths. These conservative estimates have used the z= 0 H i mass function and have ignored the possibility of evolution. The results could be used to constrain ,=,mh to 5 per cent and the spectral index, ns, to 7 per cent independent of cosmic microwave background data. If we also use simulated power spectra from the Planck satellite, we can constrain w to be within 5 per cent of ,1. [source] GC,MS characterization of oligomers in polyadipates used as plasticizers for PVC in food contactPACKAGING TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE, Issue 3 2006Maurus Biedermann Abstract Fourteen commercial polyadipates and a polysebacate were analysed for their components of a molecular mass below 1000,Da, primarily with the aim of generating the background data for measuring the migration of this type of polymeric additives from plasticized PVC (e.g. cling films and gaskets of lids) into foods or food simulants. Since the composition of the material <1000,Da varies between the polyadipates, the main components must be identified to enable a correct quantification. Polyadipates differ in the diol used as linker, their termination (acid or alcohol) and in the end-capping (free alcohols, acetylation, acylation with fatty acids, esterification with octanol/decanol). Gas chromatography (GC) provides good separation, but the material remaining in the column up to high temperatures decomposes and forms a hump in the rear part of the chromatogram. Examples of mass spectra are shown, the most indicative fragments pointed out and spectra of 159 components listed. The polyadipates and the sebacate are characterized by their structure, the main components <1000,Da and the fraction of material <1000,Da. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Subjective assessments of the quality of life, well-being and self-efficacy in patients with schizophreniaPSYCHIATRY AND CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES, Issue 4 2009Bun Chino md Aim:, The present study examined three kinds of subjective assessment scales in the same patient group with schizophrenia to analyze the correlations among scores obtained in relation to the background data. Method:, Thirty-six patients with schizophrenia were examined with the 26-item short form of the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHO-QOL 26), Subjective Well-being under Neuroleptic drug treatment: Short Japanese version (SWNS) and Self-Efficacy for Community Life scale (SECL) for subjective assessment scales, five kinds of neurocognitive tests, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) for clinical symptom, Social Functioning Scale (SFS), and Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale for social functioning. Result:, The scores for delusions (components of positive syndrome), anxiety and depression (components of general psychopathology) on the PANSS significantly correlated with QoL and subjective well-being scores. In contrast, the scores for components of negative syndrome were not correlated with the subjective assessment scores. Furthermore, none of the clinical symptom scores were correlated with the score in self-efficacy scale. The SFS and GAF scores were significantly correlated with the subjective assessment scores. There were significant correlations among the scores on the three subjective assessment scales. Conclusion:, Each scale has different features and should be utilized depending upon the expected effect of treatment or the purpose of assessment. The treatments provided to patients must be directed at improving both psychological and social impairments, in order to enhance the social functioning and QoL of patients. [source] Adaptive thinning of atmospheric observations in data assimilation with vector quantization and filtering methodsTHE QUARTERLY JOURNAL OF THE ROYAL METEOROLOGICAL SOCIETY, Issue 613 2005T. Ochotta Abstract In data assimilation for numerical weather prediction, measurements of various observation systems are combined with background data to define initial states for the forecasts. Current and future observation systems, in particular satellite instruments, produce large numbers of measurements with high spatial and temporal density. Such datasets significantly increase the computational costs of the assimilation and, moreover, can violate the assumption of spatially independent observation errors. To ameliorate these problems, we propose two greedy thinning algorithms, which reduce the number of assimilated observations while retaining the essential information content of the data. In the first method, the number of points in the output set is increased iteratively. We use a clustering method with a distance metric that combines spatial distance with difference in observation values. In a second scheme, we iteratively estimate the redundancy of the current observation set and remove the most redundant data points. We evaluate the proposed methods with respect to a geometric error measure and compare them with a uniform sampling scheme. We obtain good representations of the original data with thinnings retaining only a small portion of observations. We also evaluate our thinnings of ATOVS satellite data using the assimilation system of the Deutscher Wetterdienst. Impact of the thinning on the analysed fields and on the subsequent forecasts is discussed. Copyright © 2005 Royal Meteorological Society [source] Tropical rainforest canopies and climate changeAUSTRAL ECOLOGY, Issue 1 2007NIGEL E. STORK Abstract There is less certainty about the impact of climate change on tropical rainforests than on temperate forests because of the comparative lack of background data and because few large scale experiments have been, and are being, carried out in tropical rainforests. Many of the factors critical to the future of tropical rainforests concern canopies, the key processes that take place there, and the roles and interactions of canopy biodiversity. In particular there are almost no data on how forest canopies and processes are changing with increased carbon dioxide levels. The implications of elevated carbon dioxide, climatic stress and related changes in water-use efficiency, nutrient availability and other such changes are discussed particularly with references to Australia's tropical rainforests. [source] Prevalence and associations of partner abuse in women attending general practice: a cross-sectional surveyAUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH, Issue 5 2002Kelsey L. Hegarty Objective: To deter mine the prevalence and socio-demographic associations of physical, emotional and sexual abuse by a partner or ex-partner for women attending Australian general practices. Method: In 1996, women attending 20 randomly chosen Brisbane inner south region general practices were screened for a history of partner abuse using a self-report questionnaire. Multivariate analyses were conducted on the data, using presence of abuse or not adjusting for cluster effect to obtain prevalence rate ratios for socio-demographic background data and history of violence in the family of origin. Results: Thirty-seven per cent (CI 31.0,42.4) of the survey participants (n=1,836, response rate 78.5%) admitted to having ever experienced abuse in an adult intimate relationship. One in four women (23.3%) had ever experienced physical abuse, one in three (33.9%) emotional abuse and one in 10 (10.6%) sexual abuse. Abused women were 64.1 (CI 44.4,94.1) times more likely to have ever been afraid of any partner than non-abused women. Of women in current relationships (n=1,344), 8.0% self-reported physical or emotional or sexual abuse in the past 12 months and 1.5% all three types of abuse. Associations of abuse included being younger (<60 years), separated or divorced, having a history of child abuse or domestic violence between their parents. Conclusion: Partner abuse is very common in women attending general practices and clinicians need to be alert to possible indications of partner abuse (age, marital status, past history of abuse). [source] High-dose exposure to cat is associated with clinical tolerance , a modified Th2 immune response?CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGY, Issue 12 2003B. Hesselmar Summary Background Allergen-specific IgG4 antibodies, it is suggested, may be protecting against allergy development by blocking responses. Levels are proposed as a marker of modified Th2 response. Objectives To assess the levels of IgE, IgG1 and IgG4 antibodies to cat in relation to cat exposure, asthma and allergic diseases. Methods We studied a population-based sample of 412 schoolchildren of 12,13 years of age. Parents of 402 children completed a questionnaire covering their child's medical history, the keeping of cats and other background data. Skin prick tests (SPTs) to common aeroallergens were performed in 371 of the children. Blood samples for the analyses of IgE, IgG1 and IgG4 antibodies were obtained from 309 of them. Results All children had an immune response to cat, predominantly of the IgG1 subclass. The levels of cat-specific IgG1 and IgG4, but not IgE, were high in children currently keeping a cat. Children with asthma had increased levels of cat-specific IgE and IgG1, and children with a positive SPT to cat also had increased IgG4. The presence of IgG4 was not associated with asthma or sensitization, unless there was a simultaneous production of IgE. Twenty-five percent of the children had an immune response with only IgG4, and no IgE antibodies to cat. This group of children had the highest frequency of cat-keeping, but a similar prevalence of asthma and allergy as those with neither IgE nor IgG4 antibodies to cat. Conclusion Cat-keeping was associated with a modified Th2 response, producing IgG4 but not IgE antibodies. This immune response was not associated with an increased risk of asthma or allergy. However, the IgG4 antibodies did not directly mediate any protective effect. [source] Cloaca-like deformity with faecal incontinence after severe obstetric injury , technique and functional outcome of ano-vaginal and perineal reconstruction with X-flaps and sphincteroplastyCOLORECTAL DISEASE, Issue 8 2008A. M. Kaiser Abstract Objective, Surgical technique and outcomes report. Summary background data, Three to eight per cent of vaginal deliveries are complicated by third- or fourth- degree perineal lacerations, resulting in a cloaca-like deformity in up to 0.3%. These three-dimensional defects result in often debilitating incontinence and symptoms similar to a rectovaginal fistula because of the lack of the distal rectovaginal septum. Method, Between 2001 and 2006, 12 women (median age 37, range 20,57) with faecal incontinence and a postobstetric-injury-associated cloaca-like deformity underwent an ano-vaginal and perineal reconstruction with X-flaps and sphincteroplasty without primary faecal diversion. Results, The patients presented 13.0 ± 2.9 years (range 0.5,29 years) after the obstetric injury. The median Cleveland Clinic Florida faecal incontinence score was 16 (range 12,19). In addition, one patient complained of vaginal discharge, another of dyspareunia. All patients had an open rectovaginal communication with a large anterior sphincter defects (mean 160.2 ± 22.8 degrees, range 113,180). Resting/squeeze pressures were 28.0 ± 4.4/63.2 ± 8.1 mmHg, respectively. Pudendal neuropathy was present in five patients. The median length of hospital stay after surgery was 5.3 ± 0.7 days. Three patients experienced a postoperative rectovaginal fistula, two of which closed spontaneously, whereas the third required faecal diversion and a bulbocavernosus flap. After surgical follow-up of 9.8.3 ± 2.8 months and long-term follow-up of 38.9.0 ± 6.9 months, all the patients were satisfied with regards to overall function, continence and cosmetic result. Conclusion, Cloaca-like deformity resulting from severe obstetric injury is often not given appropriate attention. Reconstruction of the original anatomy is complex but achieves good results and does not require a prophylactic faecal diversion. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||