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Anecdotal Reports (anecdotal + report)
Selected AbstractsAssessing the Potential Impact of Cane Toads on Australian SnakesCONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 6 2003BEN L. PHILLIPS Anecdotal reports suggest that the invasion of toads into an area is followed by dramatic declines in the abundance of terrestrial native frog-eating predators, but quantitative studies have been restricted to nonpredator taxa or aquatic predators and have generally reported minimal impacts. Will toads substantially affect Australian snakes? Based on geographic distributions and dietary composition, we identified 49 snake taxa as potentially at risk from toads. The impact of these feral prey also depends on the snakes' ability to survive after ingesting toad toxins. Based on decrements in locomotor (swimming) performance after ingesting toxin, we estimate the LD50 of toad toxins for 10 of the at-risk snake species. Most species exhibited a similar low ability to tolerate toad toxins. Based on head widths relative to sizes of toads, we calculate that 7 of the 10 taxa could easily ingest a fatal dose of toxin in a single meal. The exceptions were two colubrid taxa (keelbacks [ Tropidonophis mairii] and slatey-grey snakes [ Stegonotus cucullatus]) with much higher resistance to toad toxins (up to 85-fold) and one elapid (swamp snakes [ Hemiaspis signata]) with low resistance but a small relative head size and thus low maximum prey size. Overall, our analysis suggests that cane toads threaten populations of approximately 30% of terrestrial Australian snake species. Resumen: Los sapos (Bufo marinus) son anuros grandes muy tóxicos que fueron introducidos a Australia en 1937. Reportes anecdóticos sugieren que la invasión de sapos a un área es seguida de declinaciones dramáticas en la abundancia de depredadores terrestres nativos que se alimentan de ranas, pero los estudios cuantitativos se han restringido a taxones no depredadores o a depredadores acuáticos y generalmente han indicado impactos mínimos. ¿Los sapos afectarán sustancialmente a las serpientes australianas? Basado en la distribución geográfica y la composición de la dieta, identificamos 49 taxones de serpientes como potencialmente en riesgo por los sapos. El impacto de estas presas también depende de la habilidad de las serpientes para sobrevivir después de ingerir toxinas, estimamos la LD50 de toxinas de sapo para 10 de las especies de serpientes "en riesgo." La mayoría de las especies presentaron la misma poca habilidad para tolerar toxinas de sapo. Tomando en cuenta la anchura del cráneo en relación al tamaño de los sapos, calculamos que 7 de las 10 especies podrían fácilmente ingerir una dosis letal en una sola comida. Las excepciones fueron dos taxones de colúbridos (Tropidonophis mairii y Stegonotus cucullatus) con mucha más resistencia (hasta 85 veces más) a toxinas de sapos y un elápido (Hemiaspis signata) con resistencia baja pero de tamaño cefálico relativamente pequeño (y por lo tanto, tamaño máximo de presa pequeño). En general, nuestro análisis sugiere que los sapos amenazan a 30% de las poblaciones de especies de serpientes terrestres de Australia aproximadamente. [source] Nutritional supplements, foods, and epilepsy: Is there a relationship?EPILEPSIA, Issue 11 2008Ali A. Asadi-Pooya Summary Anecdotal reports suggest that certain foods and dietary contents might influence the occurrence of seizures. However, the existing data are scanty and sometimes controversial. Some studies have found that the supplementation with individual nutrients reduced seizure frequency or improved other aspects of health in patients with epilepsy, while other studies have failed to confirm those findings. Nutrient supplementation may be necessary to prevent or reverse the effects of certain deficiencies that frequently result from the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs). However, the potential benefits of nutrient supplementation in patients with epilepsy must be weighed against reports that large doses of certain nutrients can interfere with the action of some AEDs. This paper reviews dietary and nutritional considerations in patients with epilepsy and also the relationship between foods, dietary elements, and seizures. [source] Dry season ecology of riverine tiger beetles in Kruger National Park, South AfricaAFRICAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY, Issue 2 2008Jonathan R. Mawdsley Abstract The life cycles of many African species of tiger beetles (Insecta: Coleoptera: Cicindelidae) exhibit pronounced seasonality, with adult emergence and reproductive activity closely associated with seasonal rains. Anecdotal reports have suggested that adults of certain riverine tiger beetle species may be active during the dry season near perennial water sources. To test this hypothesis, fifteen sites along three perennial rivers in Kruger National Park, South Africa, were surveyed for tiger beetles in early September, 2006. Thirteen sites yielded adult beetles, with six species represented [Chaetodera regalis (Dejean), Cylindera disjuncta (Dejean), Habrodera nilotica (Dejean), Lophyra neglecta intermediola (Horn), Lophyridia fimbriata imperatrix (Srnka), and Myriochile melancholica (Fabricius)]. Microhabitat associations of adults of all six species and ovipositional/larval substrates of five of the six species are reported, along with observations on predatory and reproductive behaviours and the possible presence of an anti-predator chemical defence in C. regalis and L. fimbriata imperatrix. Résumé Le cycle vital de nombreuses espèces de Cicindèles (colépotères) africains présente une saisonnalité prononcée, l'émergence des adultes et l'activité reproductrice étant étroitement liées aux pluies saisonnières. Quelques rapports ont suggéré que les adultes de certaines espèces riveraines de cicindèles pourraient être actives en saison sèche à proximité de sources d'eau permanentes. Pour tester cette hypothèse, on a surveillé 15 sites le long de trois rivières permanentes dans le Parc National Kruger, en Afrique du Sud, au cours du mois de septembre 2006. Treize sites abritaient des cicindèles adultes, avec six espèces représentées, (Chaetodera regalis (Dejean), Cylindera disjuncta (Dejean), Habrodera nilotica (Dejean), Lophyra neglecta intermediola (Horn), Lophyridia fimbriata imperatrix (Srnka), and Myriochile melancholica (Fabricius). On a rapporté les associations d'adultes des six espèces et les substrats oviposition/larves pour cinq des six espèces dans les microhabitats, de même que des observations sur les comportements prédateur et reproducteur et sur la présence possible d'une défense chimique anti-prédateur chez C. regalis et L. fimbriata imperatrix. [source] A model for the influence of mentoring relationships on youth developmentJOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY, Issue 6 2006Jean E. Rhodes Anecdotal reports of the protective qualities of mentoring relationships for youth are corroborated by a growing body of research. What is missing, however, is research on the processes by which mentors influence developmental outcomes. In this article, we present a conceptual model of the mentoring process along with a delineation of some of the current research on what makes for more effective mentoring relationships. A set of recommendations for future research is offered. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source] Intratracheal clenbuterol in the horse: its pharmacological efficacy and analytical detectionJOURNAL OF VETERINARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 4 2000J. D. HARKINS Clenbuterol, a ,2 agonist/antagonist, is the only bronchodilator approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in horses. The Association of Racing Commissioners International classifies clenbuterol as a class 3 agent, and, as such, its identification in post-race samples may lead to sanctions. Anecdotal reports suggest that clenbuterol may have been administered by intratracheal (IT) injection to obtain beneficial effects and avoid post-race detection. The objectives of this study were (1) to measure the pharmacological efficacy of IT dose of clenbuterol and (2) to determine the analytical findings in urine in the presence and absence of furosemide. When administered intratracheally (90,,g/horse) to horses suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), clenbuterol had effects that were not significantly different from those of saline. In parallel experiments using a behavior chamber, no significant effects of IT clenbuterol on heart rate or spontaneous locomotor activity were observed. Clenbuterol concentrations in the urine were also measured after IT dose in the presence and absence of furosemide. Four horses were administered i.v. furosemide (5,mg/kg), and four horses were administered saline (5,mL). Two hours later, all horses were administrated clenbuterol (IT, 90,,g), and the furosemide-treated horses received a second dose of furosemide (2.5 mg/kg, i.v.). Three hours after clenbuterol dose (1,h after hypothetical ,post-time'), the mean specific gravity of urine samples from furosemide-treated horses was 1.024, well above the 1.010 concentration at which furosemide is considered to interfere with drug detection. There was no interference by furosemide with ,enhanced' ELISA screening of clenbuterol equivalents in extracted and concentrated samples. Similarly, furosemide had no effect on mass spectral identification or quantification of clenbuterol in these samples. These results suggest that the IT dose of clenbuterol (90,,g) is, in pharmacological terms, indistinguishable from the dose of saline, and that, using extracted samples, clenbuterol dose is readily detectable at 3,h after dosing. Furthermore, concomitant dose of furosemide does not interfere with detection or confirmation of clenbuterol. [source] INTERACTIONS BETWEEN THE INDIAN RIVER LAGOON BLUE CRAB FISHERY AND THE BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN, TURSIOPS TRUNCATUSMARINE MAMMAL SCIENCE, Issue 4 2002Wendy D. Noke Abstract Anecdotal reports from blue crab fishermen in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL), Florida suggested that bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) followed their boats, and stole bait fish from crab pots soon after they were deployed. To investigate these reports, we made biweekly observations from IRL commercial crab boats from January 1998 to January 1999 (670 h). Only 2.8% of the 18,891 crab pots surveyed revealed evidence of dolphin/crab pot interaction. Dolphin interactions included: (1) begging at boats, (2) feeding on discarded bait fish, (3) engaging in crab pot tipping behavior, and (4) dolphin mortality from crab pot float line entanglement. Overall, 16.6% of the 1,296 dolphins sighted interacted with fishing boats. Seasonal trends were evident, with fishery interactions peaking in the summer. Crab pot interactions ranged from 0% to 36% of the traps checked daily. Different methods of securing the bait-well door and the role of trap locality were tested using a replicated experimental design. Results showed significant differences in successful bait removal by dolphins, among the degrees of door security (P < 0.001) and between trap location (P < 0.01). Thus, increased door security may help to reduce the negative impacts to the fishery and dolphins involved. [source] Genetic analysis of SCA 2 and 3 repeat expansions in essential tremor and atypical ParkinsonismMOVEMENT DISORDERS, Issue 13 2007Eng-King Tan MD Abstract Anecdotal reports suggest that patients with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA 2) patients can present with postural tremor with ataxia. We determined the prevalence of SCA2 and SCA3 mutations in a cohort of ET and atypical Parkinsonism patients. A total of 277 subjects comprising of 177 ET and 100 atypical Parkinsonism were examined. We identified one positive case of SCA3 among those who were diagnosed with ET, yielding a prevalence of 0.5%, but a zero prevalence among our atypical Parkinsonism patients. No study subjects carried an abnormal SCA2 repeat expansion. Our study highlights that SCA3 can present initially with ET symptoms, expanding the spectrum of genetic diseases that can be associated with ET-like phenotype. Routine screening for SCA2 and SCA3 in ET and atypical Parkinsonism patients may not be cost effective. However, in the long-term follow-up of patients who present with an ET phenotype, clinicians should be vigilant for other neurological signs, which may be point to an alternate diagnosis. © 2007 Movement Disorder Society [source] Breastfeeding Rates in Hong Kong: A Comparison of the 1987 and 1997 Birth CohortsBIRTH, Issue 3 2002Gabriel M. Leung MD ABSTRACT: Background: Low breastfeeding rates are an issue of international public health concern. Anecdotal reports suggest very low breastfeeding rates in Asia, but no population-based studies have been conducted in the region. To determine the secular trend in breastfeeding practice in an Asian postindustrialized metropolitan community, we examined data from two population-based birth cohorts of Hong Kong infants in 1987 and 1997. Methods: Annual population rates of breastfeeding initiation and duration were estimated from the birth cohorts, considering the change in breastfeeding rates over 10 years with correction for sociodemographic and birth characteristics. Factors associated with breastfeeding practice were identified using multivariate logistic regression modeling in a pooled analysis of individual data of both cohorts. Results: Overall, 26.8 percent of mothers initiated breastfeeding in 1987, and the rate increased to 33.5 percent in 1997. The rate would have been 27.4 percent in 1987 if the distributions of method of delivery, birthweight, birth order, maternal age, education, and employment status had been the same as in 1997. Only 7.6 percent of infants remained on the breast for more than 1 month in 1987 compared with 20.4 percent a decade later. Similarly, the rate for breastfeeding more than 3 months increased from 3.9 to 10.3 percent. Total breastfeeding duration was significantly longer in 1997 than 10 years earlier. Conclusions: This is the first systematic report of secular variations of breastfeeding rates in Asia. Hong Kong should set higher but realistic goals for breastfeeding that emphasize both initiation and maintenance. Given the wide latitude for improvement in terms of readily modifiable risk factors, such as smoking and cesarean section, these new goals should focus on improving rates in these targeted groups where breastfeeding rates are lowest. (BIRTH 29:3 September 2002) [source] Variations in the orthotic management of cerebral palsyCHILD: CARE, HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT, Issue 2 2002Christopher Morris Abstract Objective Anecdotal reports that children with cerebral palsy were provided different orthoses in two adjacent UK health districts were investigated using an observational comparative case study. Method The populations were compared using an epidemiological register of children with cerebral palsy, which confirmed that a comparable health service response could be expected. Merging data from the register with the orthotic patient database facilitated comparison of the orthoses prescribed in each district. A survey questionnaire was used to gather the perceptions of clinicians in both districts to understand how each team decides which orthosis to prescribe. Results There was considerable variation in the types of orthoses prescribed between districts, and particularly of ankle foot orthoses. Survey respondents from the same profession described having the same roles, although clinicians expressed different responsibilities for initiating and sanctioning orthotic prescriptions in their district programmes. The survey also suggested that most clinicians were uncertain when prescribing orthoses, and clinical practice was therefore largely determined by professional preference. Conclusion Defining the spectrum of activity limitation in geographically defined populations would enhance health services research and assist in the development of trials using different interventions to reduce those limitations. [source] Review of Photorejuvenation: Devices, Cosmeceuticals, or Both?DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 2005Cameron K. Rokhsar MD Background:. Both the public and the medical profession have placed a lot of attention on reversal of signs of aging and photodamage, resulting in numerous cosmeceutical products and nonablative laser techniques designed to achieve these results. Objective:. The purpose of this report is to briefly review both the cosmeceutical products and nonablative laser techniques that appear to be most promising based on published studies. After this review, recommendations for potential enhancement of benefits by combining cosmeceuticals and laser treatments will be explored. Results. Pulsed dye lasers targeting microvessels, intense pulsed light targeting both melanin and microvessels, and midinfrared lasers targeting dermal water and collagen all appear to have some ability to improve skin texture, color, and wrinkling. Retinoids, vitamin C, alpha-hydroxy acids, and topical growth factors may also stimulate repair mechanisms that result in similar improvements in photodamaged skin. Conclusion:. Although supported only by theoretic considerations and anecdotal reports, it seems logical that the concurrent use of appropriate cosmeceuticals with nonablative laser photorejuvenation should result in enhanced benefits. [source] Beauty Versus Medicine: The Nonphysician Practice of Dermatologic SurgeryDERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 4 2003Harold J. Brody MD Background This investigation was initiated because of a growing concern by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery about the proliferation of nonphysicians practicing medicine and its impact on public health, safety, and welfare. Objective Prompted by an alarming rise in anecdotal reports among dermatologic surgeons, the study sought to determine whether there was a significant increase in the number of patients seeking corrective treatment due to complications from laser and light-based hair removal, subsurface laser/light rejuvenation techniques, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, injectables, and other cosmetic medical/surgical procedures performed by nonphysicians without adequate training or supervision. Methods A survey of 2,400 American Society for Dermatologic Surgery members in July 2001 and in-depth phone interviews with eight patients who experienced complications from nonphysicians performing cosmetic dermatologic surgery procedures were conducted. Results Survey data and qualitative research results attributed patient complications primarily to "nonphysician operators" such as cosmetic technicians, estheticians, and employees of medical/dental professionals who performed various invasive medical procedures outside of their scope of training or with inadequate or no physician supervision. Conclusion The results underscore the need for improved awareness, legislation, and enforcement regarding the nonphysician practice of medicine, along with further study of this issue. [source] Impact of the heroin ,drought' on patterns of drug use and drug-related harmsDRUG AND ALCOHOL REVIEW, Issue 2 2004Dr MARIE C. LONGO Senior Research Officer Abstract Since late 2000, anecdotal reports from drug users and health professionals have suggested that there was a reduction in the supply of heroin in Adelaide in the first half of 2001, referred to as a heroin ,drought'. The aim of this paper was to critically review evidence for this, using data obtained from 100 injecting drug users surveyed for the 2001 Illicit Drug Reporting System (IDRS). This project is carried out annually in all Australian jurisdictions, and collects up-to-date information on the markets for heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine and cannabis. This paper also investigates the possible implications of this ,drought' on patterns of drug use and drug-related harms. The 2001 IDRS found consistent reports by users of an increase in the price of heroin, together with decreases in purity and availability. These factors resulted in a decrease in the frequency of self-reported heroin use among those surveyed in 2001, and a concomitant increase in the use of other drugs, in particular methamphetamine and morphine. The heroin ,drought' appears to have had a substantial impact on several indices of drug-related harm. There was a marked decrease in the number of opioid-related fatalities, and hospital data also showed reductions in heroin-related presentations. Treatment service data showed an increase in the number of admissions related to amphetamines. There is a need for health promotion and education on the adverse effects of methamphetamine use, and the development of improved treatment protocols for methamphetamine abuse and dependence. [source] Do Proper Accommodation Assignments Make a Difference?EDUCATIONAL MEASUREMENT: ISSUES AND PRACTICE, Issue 3 2007Examining the Impact of Improved Decision Making on Scores for English Language Learners Does it matter if students are appropriately assigned to test accommodations? Using a randomized method, this study found that individual students assigned accommodations keyed to their particular needs were significantly more efficacious for English language learners (ELLs) and that little difference was reported between students receiving incomplete or not recommended accommodations and no accommodations whatsoever. A sample of third and fourth grade ELLs in South Carolina (N = 272) were randomly assigned to various types of test accommodations on a mathematics assessment. Results indicated that those students who received the appropriate test accommodations, as recommended by a version of a computerized accommodation taxonomy for ELLs (the selection taxonomy for English language learners accommodations; STELLA), had significantly higher test scores than ELLs who received no accommodations or those who received incomplete or not recommended accommodation packages. Additionally, students who were given no test accommodations scored no differently than those students that received accommodation packages that were incomplete or not recommended, given the students' particular needs and challenges. These findings are important in light of research and anecdotal reports that suggest a general lack of systematicity in the current system of assigning accommodations and a tendency to give all available accommodations regardless of individual child characteristics. The results also have important implications for how future accommodation research should be structured to determine the benefits of particular accommodations and accommodation packages. This study would suggest that control and treatment groups should be assembled based on specific student needs in order for direct comparisons to be made. [source] Association of type of sport and performance level with anatomical site of orthopaedic injury diagnosisEQUINE VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue S36 2006R. C. MURRAY Summary Reason for performing study: Although anecdotal reports of increased orthopaedic injury risk in equine sports exist, there is little scientific evidence to support this. Objectives: To test whether horses undertaking a single competitive sport have increased risk of specific injuries compared to those used for general purpose riding (GP); and whether injury type varies with sport category and performance level. Methods: Data from 1069 records of horses undergoing orthopaedic evaluation (1998,2003) and meeting inclusion criteria were reviewed. Sport category (GP, showjumping, dressage, eventing, racing), level (nonelite or elite) and diagnosis were recorded. Effects of sport category and level on probability of a specific diagnosis were assessed using chisquared tests. Logistic regression was used to determine which competitive sports and levels increased risk of injury compared with GP. Results: Overall there was a significant effect of sport category and level on diagnosis (P<0.0001). There was significant difference between anatomical site injured and sport category (P<0.0001); a high risk of forelimb superficial digital flexor tendon injury in elite eventing (P<0.0001) and elite showjumping (P=0.02); distal deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) injury in elite showjumping (P=0.002); and hindlimb suspensory ligament injury in elite (P<0.0001) and nonelite (P=0.001) dressage. There was a low risk of tarsal injury in elite eventing (P=0.01) and proximal DDFT injury in dressage (P = 0.01). Conclusions: Horses competing in different sports are predisposed to specific injuries; particular sports may increase the risk of injury at certain anatomical sites; and the type and site of injury may reflect the type and level of performance. Potential relevance: These findings could guide clinicians in the diagnosis of sport related injuries. [source] Undulating toe movements in brain death,EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROLOGY, Issue 11 2004G. Saposnik For many years, death implied immobility. Nevertheless, there are anecdotal reports of spontaneous or reflex movements (SRMs) in patients with Brain death (BD). The presence of some movements can preclude the diagnosis of BD, and consequently, the possibility of organ donation for transplantation. McNair and Meador [(1992), Mov Dord7: 345,347] described the presence of undulating toe flexion movements (UTF) in BD patients. UTF consists in a sequential brief plantar flexion of the toes. Our aim was to determine the frequency, characteristics and predisposing factors of UTF movements in a prospective multicenter cohort study of patients with BD. Patients with confirmed diagnosis of BD were assessed to evaluate the presence of UTF using a standardized protocol. All patients had a routine laboratory evaluation, CT scan of the head, and EEG. Demographic, clinical, hemodynamic and blood gas concentration factors were analyzed. amongst 107 BD patients who fulfilled the AAN requirements, 47 patients (44%) had abnormal movements. UTF was observed in 25 (23%) being the most common movement (53%). Early evaluation (OR 4.3, CI95% 1.5,11.9) was a predictor of UTF in a multivariate regression model. The somato-sensory evoked potential (SSEPs) as well as brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs) did not elicit a cortical response in studied patients with UTF. This spinal reflex is probably integrated in the L5 and S1 segments of the spinal cord. Abnormal movements are common in BD, being present in more than 40% of individuals. UTF was the most common spinal reflex. In our sample, early evaluation was a predictor of UTF. Health care professionals, especially those involved in organ procurement for transplantation, must be aware of this sign. The presence of this motor phenomenon does not preclude the diagnosis of BD. [source] Effectiveness of kukui nut oil as a topical treatment for psoriasisINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 8 2005Amy C. Brown PhD Background, No cure for psoriasis exists for the 1,3% of the American population who suffer from it; however, anecdotal reports from patients with psoriasis visiting Hawaii who purchased kukui nut oil, claim it helped reduce the severity of their lesions. Objective, This pilot study was a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of kukui nut oil as a topical treatment for psoriasis. Methods, Thirty adult subjects (18,78 year) were recruited from the community for a 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Subjects were previously diagnosed with mild, stable plaque psoriasis (less than 15% of total body surface area [TBSA]) and agreed to abstain from other treatments during the course of the study. Following a 4-week washout period the subjects were randomized into a treatment group (15 subjects applying kukui nut oil) or a control group (15 applying the mineral oil placebo). Patients were seen every 2 weeks (seven visits at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 weeks) by a dermatological nurse practitioner under the general supervision of a board certified dermatologist. Measurable outcomes included evaluation of one targeted lesion and of the overall severity of their psoriasis using clinical evaluation, Psoriasis Area and Sensitivity Index (PASI), Global Severity of Psoriasis Scale, and photographs. Each patient also evaluated their own lesions daily using the Global Severity of Psoriasis Scale, and noted any side-effects or other treatments used. Results, Although both groups improved, we found no significant difference between the treatment (kukui nut oil) and the placebo (mineral oil) among the 24 out of 30 subjects (80%) who completed the study. No side-effects or adverse events were reported. Conclusion, Kukui nut oil did not significantly reduce symptoms of psoriasis; however, this was a small pilot study, and the use of this oil cannot be dismissed without using a larger study population of patients with psoriasis. [source] Newly available treatments for psoriatic arthritis and their impact on skin psoriasisINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2003Hassan Galadari Abstract Far from being a "benign" arthropathy, as it was initially characterized, psoriatic arthritis (PsA) affects approximately 0.2% of the US population and can be associated with considerable joint damage, symptomatology, and quality of life impairment. PsA shares many characteristics with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and new, rationally designed drugs that are effective in RA also are proving active in PsA. Two such drugs, etanercept and infliximab, target tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a key component of the inflammatory response. This review discusses the rationale for and experience with the use of these agents in PsA. Etanercept is a dimeric fusion protein that binds specifically to TNF, blocking its interaction with cell surface TNF receptors. Infliximab is a chimeric (murine/human) monoclonal antibody that binds to TNF and inhibits its binding to its receptor. A randomized placebo-controlled trial of etanercept in PsA found statistically significant benefits for this agent in measures of arthritic activity and psoriatic severity. There have been anecdotal reports of the efficacy of infliximab in PsA, but results from controlled clinical trials of this agent in PsA have not been reported. TNF inhibitors represent new therapeutic options for patients with PsA. The potential advantages of treatment with etanercept and infliximab early in the disease course are discussed. [source] A case of refractory vasculitic ulcers in a systemic lupus erythematosus patient responding to rituximab and hyperbaric oxygen therapyINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RHEUMATIC DISEASES, Issue 4 2009Nai-Lee LUI Abstract Large refractory vasculitic ulcers are not commonly seen in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. We report a case of refractory vasculitic ulcers responding to rituximab, a monoclonal antibody directed against CD20 cells leading to prolonged B cell depletion. This treatment was initiated after treatment with high-dose steroids and other immunosuppressants were ineffective/associated with significant side-effects. Following treatment with rituximab, there was sustained clinical improvement and subsequent reduction of prednisolone dose. Rituximab was well-tolerated. Concomitant methotrexate therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) may have aided the recovery of the patient's vasculitic ulcers. This case and anecdotal reports have illustrated the efficacy and safety of rituximab in the treatment of refractory SLE-related vasculitic ulcers. Further studies to determine the long-term efficacy and side-effects would be useful. [source] Using Distraction to Reduce Reported Pain, Fear, and Behavioral Distress in Children and Adolescents: A Multisite StudyJOURNAL FOR SPECIALISTS IN PEDIATRIC NURSING, Issue 2 2000Karen L. Carlson ISSUES AND PURPOSE. Distraction during painful procedures has been shown to be effective in previous studies, yet this simple intervention is not used routinely. This study examined the effectiveness and feasibility of distraction in reducing behavioral distress, pain, and fear during venipuncture or intravenous insertion. DESIGN AND METHODS. A two-group randomized design with 384 children in 13 children's hospitals. RESULTS. Age was a significant factor in observed behavioral distress, reports of fear, and self-reported pain. The use of a kaleidoscope, however, did not significantly reduce pain or distress during venipuncture or IV insertion. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS. Failure of the distraction intervention to reach statistical significance in this study is puzzling, given anecdotal reports of clinical efficacy. Methodological issues may have obscured actual differences between experimental and control groups. [source] Evaluation of the use of coconut to treat chronic diarrhea in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta)JOURNAL OF MEDICAL PRIMATOLOGY, Issue 6 2008J.L. Wilk Abstract Background, Chronic diarrhea can be challenging to manage in captive rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) leading to ongoing diagnostics, medications, monitoring, and potential euthanasia. Coconut has been used as a dietary supplement for people with inflammatory bowel disease, with anecdotal reports of decreased diarrhea following the dietary addition. A dietary trial in rhesus macaques was initiated to evaluate the hypothesis that dietary coconut decreases symptoms of chronic diarrhea in rhesus macaques. Methods, Ten rhesus macaques with chronic diarrhea were selected for the trial. Five of the subjects were fed coconut macaroons and five of the subjects were fed a sham cookie. Stool consistency was monitored daily for both groups. Results and conclusions, Data of chi-squared analysis obtained from eight rhesus macaques with chronic diarrhea showed that the use of coconut macaroons as a dietary supplement did not have a statistically significant effect on their diarrhea. [source] Allergy to peanut oil , clinically relevant?JOURNAL OF THE EUROPEAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY & VENEREOLOGY, Issue 4 2007J Ring Abstract The increasing prevalence of food allergies (especially allergy to peanuts) has led to a discussion of how safe topical preparations containing peanut oil are with respect to allergy. The major allergens from peanuts are proteins that have been characterized at a molecular level and cloned. Clinical signs of peanut allergy symptoms can be observed on the skin (urticaria), or in the gastrointestinal and/or respiratory tract culminating in cardiovascular symptoms and anaphylactic reactions. In most cases, symptoms are elicited by oral uptake; rarely, a contact urticaria has been described. In vegetable oils, the contents of protein differ depending on the production process: crude oils contain approximately 100 times more proteins than refined oils. This has clear-cut implications for allergic individuals. Quantitative data are available regarding elicitation of symptoms in allergic individuals with a threshold dose of 0.1,1 mg peanut allergen in oral provocation tests. There are anecdotal reports of adverse reactions after topical use of peanut oils. In one epidemiological trial, an association between topical use of skin care products containing peanut oil and the development of peanut allergy was observed; however, the data reflect a retrospective analysis without specifying skin care products containing peanut oil and also without analysing the quantity of topicals used. In contrast, oral tolerance was prevented and allergic sensitization was enhanced in a mouse model using high concentrations of peanut protein. So far, no reliable data are available regarding doses required to induce sensitization against peanut allergen via the epidermal route. A possible induction of sensitization against peanut proteins through contact with the skin via skin care products and the respective protein concentrations is a matter of speculation. Patients with atopic diseases, namely eczema, need appropriate skin care because of the disturbed skin barrier function. The benefit of avoiding damage to skin barrier functions of atopic individuals by the use of peanut protein-containing skin care products seems to outweigh possible risks of sensitization and/or allergy induction against substances contained in those products containing refined peanut oil. [source] The impact of human herpesvirus-6 and -7 infection on the outcome of liver transplantationLIVER TRANSPLANTATION, Issue 8 2002Raymund R. Razonable Human herpesvirus (HHV)-6 and -7 are novel members of the ,-herpesvirus family that maintain latency in the human host after primary infection. Reactivation from latency and/or increased degree of viral replication occurs during periods of immune dysfunction. The clinical effect of HHV-6 and HHV-7 reactivation in recipients of liver transplants is now being recognized. Clinical illnesses such as fever, rash, pneumonitis, encephalitis, hepatitis, and myelosuppression have been described in a number of anecdotal reports. Moreover, a growing body of evidence suggests that the more important effect of HHV-6 and HHV-7 reactivation on the outcomes of liver transplantation may be mediated indirectly by their interactions with the other ,-herpesvirus,cytomegalovirus (CMV). Coinfection among these three ,-herpesviruses in clinical syndromes that were classically ascribed to be solely caused by CMV has been shown and has raised substantial interest in the potential role of HHV-6 and HHV-7 as copathogens in the direct and indirect illnesses caused by CMV. This article reviews the current scientific data on the role and the magnitude of impact of HHV-6 and HHV-7 infection on the outcomes of liver transplantation. [source] QUANTIFICATION OF TERRESTRIAL HAUL-OUT AND ROOKERY CHARACTERISTICS OF STELLER SEA LIONSMARINE MAMMAL SCIENCE, Issue 3 2007Stephen Ban Abstract Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) are known to have occupied the same terrestrial haul-out and rookery sites across the North Pacific Rim for centuries, but it is not known why they choose and stay at these locations, or what defines their preferred habitat. Classifying and comparing the shoreline type of haul-outs and rookeries against sites not used by Steller sea lions showed that they preferentially locate their haul-outs and rookeries on exposed rocky shorelines and wave-cut platforms. However, no preference was found for selecting rookeries on sheltered shore types. Shoreline types used less frequently by sea lions included fine-to-medium-grained sand beaches, mixed sand and gravel beaches, gravel beaches, and sheltered rocky shores. Quantifying the shoreline types used by sea lions confirms anecdotal reports of habitat preferences and may prove useful in identifying and protecting sea lion terrestrial habitat, or in forecasting how climate change might affect the distribution of sea lions. [source] Danazol therapy for aplastic anemia refractory to immunosuppressive therapyAMERICAN JOURNAL OF HEMATOLOGY, Issue 5 2008Tatsuya Chuhjo Although there are anecdotal reports of the efficacy of danazol in the treatment of aplastic anemia (AA), there has been no systematic study to clarify its efficacy and toxicity. Therefore, we assessed the efficacy of danazol for treatment of patients with AA refractory to immunosuppressive therapy (IST) and those who relapsed after IST, in a prospective clinical trial. Sixteen patients (12 males and four females; six severe cases and 10 moderate cases) were treated with 300 mg of danazol daily for 12 weeks. All patients completed the treatment period without occurrence of severe toxicity. Three female patients achieved partial remission, whereas only two of the 12 male patients did so. None of the responders had shown a response to previous IST or an increase in the percentage of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH)-type cells which are known to be a marker for a good response to IST. These findings indicate that danazol is effective for a subset of AA patients, and particularly for female patients with AA refractory to IST. Am. J. Hematol., 2008. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] EMDR: Implications of the Use of Reprocessing Therapy in Nursing PracticePERSPECTIVES IN PSYCHIATRIC CARE, Issue 3 2004Susan McCabe EdD TOPIC. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). PURPOSE. To examine the available evidence base for EMDR treatment in psychiatric nursing practice. SOURCES. Evidenced-based research findings, published case and anecdotal reports, and primary source documents on the development of the treatment method. CONCLUSIONS. EMDR use remains controversial. Although it is safe, little is known regarding the mechanism of action of any therapeutic effect; more rigorous empirical establishment of efficacy is needed. [source] Reports of hyperkalemia after publication of RALES,a pharmacovigilance study,PHARMACOEPIDEMIOLOGY AND DRUG SAFETY, Issue 11 2006Manfred Hauben MD Abstract Purpose A population-based study and anecdotal reports have indicated that the publication of the Randomized Aldactone Evaluation Study (RALES) was associated with not merely a broader use of spironolactone in the treatment of heart failure, but also with a coinciding sharp increase in hyperkalemia-associated morbidity/mortality in patients also being treated with ACE-inhibitors. Data mining algorithms (DMAs) are being applied to spontaneous reporting system (SRS) databases in hopes of obtaining early warnings/additional insights into post-licensure safety data. We applied two DMAs (i.e. multi-item gamma Poisson shrinker [MGPS] and proportional reporting ratios [PRRs]) to spontaneous reporting system (SRS) data to determine if these DMAs could have provided an earlier indication of a possible hyperkalemia safety issue. Methods MGPS and PRRs were retrospectively applied to US FDA-AERS, an SRS database. Year-by-year analysis and analysis of increasing cumulative time intervals were performed on cases in which both spironolactone and hyperkalemia and possibly related cardiac events had been reported. Results Neither of the DMAs initially provided a compelling signal of disproportionate reporting (SDR) for hyperkalemia after publication of RALES. However, using events consistent with clinical sequelae of hyperkalemia (e.g,. sudden death), SDRs were identified with PRRs. Conclusions The quality and usefulness of data mining analysis is highly situation dependent and may vary with the knowledge and experience of the drug safety reviewer. Our analysis suggests that contemporary DMAs may have significant limitations in detecting increased frequency of labeled events in real-life prospective pharmacovigilance. There is a paucity of research in this area and we recommend further research for new approaches to detecting increased frequency of labeled events. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Teachers' perceptions of the emotional and behavioral functioning of children raised by grandparentsPSYCHOLOGY IN THE SCHOOLS, Issue 5 2006Oliver W. Edwards Increasing numbers of grandparents are becoming full-time surrogate parents to their grandchildren. Grandparents who raise their grandchildren reportedly endure high levels of stress, and grandchildren purportedly experience childhood trauma that can lead to poor psychological adjustment. While anecdotal reports have suggested that grandchildren experience significant behavioral problems, there is a dearth of data to empirically support this view. This research was an initial endeavor to ascertain whether teachers perceive children raised by grandparents as exhibiting serious emotional and behavioral problems. Fifty-four African American children raised by their grandparents and a comparison group of 54 African American children living with their parents were studied to determine the grandchildren's functioning. Teachers perceived the children raised by their grandparents as experiencing significantly more emotional and behavioral problems than their similar schoolmates. Children in these families appear in need of school-based intervention services. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Psychol Schs 43: 565,572, 2006. [source] The physical characteristics and usage patterns of stone axe and pounding hammers used by long-tailed macaques in the Andaman Sea region of ThailandAMERICAN JOURNAL OF PRIMATOLOGY, Issue 7 2009Michael D. Gumert Abstract Stone hammering in natural conditions has been extensively investigated in chimpanzees and bearded capuchins. In contrast, knowledge of stone tool use in wild Old World monkeys has been limited to anecdotal reports, despite having known for over 120 years that Macaca fascicularis aurea use stone tools to process shelled foods from intertidal zones on islands in the Andaman Sea. Our report is the first scientific investigation to look at the stone tools used by these macaques. We observed they were skilled tool users and used stone tools daily. They selected tools with differing qualities for differing food items, and appeared to use at least two types of stone tools. Pounding hammers were used to crush shellfish and nuts on anvils and axe hammers were used to pick or chip at oysters attached to boulders or trees. We found significant physical differences between these two tools. Tools at oyster beds were smaller and exhibited scarring patterns focused more often on the points, whereas tools found at anvils were larger and showed more scarring on the broader surfaces. We also observed grip differences between the two tool types. Lastly, macaques struck targets with axe hammers more rapidly and over a wider range of motion than with pounding hammers. Both our behavioral and lithic data support that axe hammers might be used with greater control and precision than pounding hammers. Hand-sized axe hammers were used for controlled chipping to crack attached oysters, and larger pounding hammers were used to crush nuts and unattached shellfish on anvils. In addition to stones, they also used hand-sized auger shells (Turritella attenuata) as picks to axe attached oysters. Pound hammering appears similar to the stone tools used by chimpanzees and capuchins, but axe hammering has not yet been documented in other nonhuman primates in natural conditions. Am. J. Primatol. 71:594,608, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Fisheries, large-scale trade, and conservation of seahorses in Malaysia and ThailandAQUATIC CONSERVATION: MARINE AND FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS, Issue 4 2010Allison L. Perry Abstract 1.All seahorse species (genus Hippocampus) are listed under CITES Appendix II, requiring that exports of these fishes must be regulated for sustainability. Preliminary trade surveys and anecdotal reports suggested Malaysia and Thailand represented an important source for seahorses used globally in traditional medicine, curios, and aquarium display, but few historic trade or fisheries data are available. Baseline information about pre-CITES catch and trade is essential for managing seahorse fisheries and trade under CITES, and for understanding present-day effects of CITES regulation on the seahorse trade. 2.In 1998,1999, seahorse fisheries and trade in both countries were assessed by interviewing participants at many levels of the trade and corroborating those surveys with official trade documents. 3.Seahorses were found to be landed primarily as trawl bycatch. Malaysia's catch of 2900,kg year,1 was less than the estimated domestic consumption (5500,6000,kg year,1), whereas Thailand's catch of 6600,kg year,1 apparently far exceeded domestic consumption (,520,kg year,1). 4.Both countries imported seahorses from and exported to other Asian nations. Import statistics from Hong Kong SAR and Taiwan recorded maximum annual trade from Malaysia at 1280,kg year,1. Trade surveys indicated that Thailand exported at least 5000,kg annually (similar to the estimation of catch), but national Customs records reported 10,500,kg year,1 in exports, supported by official import records from Hong Kong SAR and Taiwan which indicated that Thailand was the source of up to 11,400,kg year,1. 5.Fishers and traders in both countries reported decreasing availability of seahorses, raising conservation concerns. These apparent declines, in combination with substantial domestic consumption, point towards the challenges that Malaysia and Thailand face in establishing sustainable levels of exports under CITES. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Oral mucosal malignancy and potentially malignant lesions: an update on the epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis and managementAUSTRALIAN DENTAL JOURNAL, Issue 2010MJ McCullough Abstract An oral examination for the assessment for malignant and potentially malignant oral mucosal lesions is routine in general dental practice. It may be uncommon for general dental practitioners to encounter oral cancer, with anecdotal reports suggesting that this occurs about once every 10 years in a busy general dental practice. However, potentially malignant oral mucosal lesions are relatively common, occurring in about 2.5% of the population. This update highlights the epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis and management of these oral mucosal lesions. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||