bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experience in IVIg Therapy for Selected Women with Recurrent Reproductive Failure and NK Cell Expansion
Authors: Ramos‐Medina Rocio , García‐Segovia Aurea , Gil Juana , Carbone Javier , Aguarón de la Cruz Angel , Seyfferth Ansgar , Alonso Bárbara , Alonso Jorge , León Juan A. , Alecsandru Diana , Meliá Elena , Carrillo de Albornoz Elena , Ordoñez Daniel , Santillán Isabel , Verdú Victoria , Garcia Ruiz de Morales Jose Maria , López‐Hoyos Marcos , López Larios Arturo , Sampalo Almudena , Caballero Pedro , Ortiz Quintana Luis , Fernández‐Cruz Eduardo , Sánchez‐Ramón Silvia
Published: March 2014

Problem

Recurrent reproductive failure (RRF) has been associated with expansion of circulating NK cells, key cells for maternal tolerance, decidual vasculogenesis and embryo growth. This study reports our experience in intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) therapy of a large cohort of women with RRF with expanded circulating NK and/or NKT‐like cells (blood NKT cells are a heterogeneous subset of T cells that share properties of both T cells and NK cells).

Method of study

Observational study of RRF women with NK or NKT‐like expansion (>12% or 10% cutoff levels of total lymphocytes, respectively), treated with IVIg for the next gestation.

Results

By multivariant logistic regression analysis after adjusting for age, NK cells subsets and other therapies, IVIg significantly improved the live birth rate to 96.3% in women with recurrent miscarriage (RM) compared with 30.6% in case not receiving IVIg (P < 0.0001). In women with recurrent implantation failure (RIF), in comparison with women not receiving IVIg, treatment increased the pregnancy rate from 26.2 to 93.8% (P ≤ 0.0001) and the live birth rate from 17.9 to 80.0% in RIF (P ≤ 0.0001).

Conclusions

Immunomodulation with IVIg in our selected group of RRF patients with immunologic alterations enhanced clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. Our results may facilitate the design of future clinical trials of IVIg in this pathology.
Enhanced glucocorticoid‐induced leucine zipper in dendritic cells induces allergen‐specific regulatory CD4+T‐cells in respiratory allergies
Authors: Karaki S. , Garcia G. , Tcherakian C. , Capel F. , Tran T. , Pallardy M. , Humbert M. , Emilie D. , Godot V.
Published: March 2014

Background

Respiratory allergies rely on a defect of IL‐10‐secreting regulatory CD4+T‐cells (IL‐10‐Tregs) leading to excessive Th2‐biased immune responses to allergens. According to clinical data, the restoration of allergen‐specific IL‐10‐Tregs is required to control respiratory allergies and cure patients. The discovery of mechanisms involved in the generation of IL‐10‐Tregs will thus help to provide effective treatments. We previously demonstrated that dendritic cells (DCs) expressing high levels of the glucocorticoid‐induced leucine zipper protein (GILZ) generate antigen‐specific IL‐10‐Tregs.

Objective

We suspect a defective expression of GILZ in the DCs of respiratory allergic patients and speculate that increasing its expression might restore immune tolerance against allergens through the induction of IL‐10‐Tregs.

Methods

We assessed GILZ expression in blood DCs of patients and healthy nonallergic donors by qPCR. We compared the ability of patients' DCs to induce allergen‐specific IL‐10‐Tregs before and after an in vivo up‐regulation of GILZ expression by steroid administration, steroids being inducers of GILZ.

Results

We report lower levels of GILZ in DCs of respiratory allergic patients that return to normal levels after steroid administration. We show that patients' DCs with increased levels of GILZ generate allergen‐specific IL‐10‐Tregs again. We further confirm unequivocally that GILZ is required in patients' DCs to activate these IL‐10‐Tregs.

Conclusion

This proof of concept study shows that the re‐establishment of GILZ expression in patients' DCs to normal levels restores their capacity to activate allergen‐specific IL‐10‐Tregs. We thus highlight the up‐regulation of GILZ in DCs as a new interventional approach to restore the immune tolerance to allergens.
Normative visual acuity in infants and preschool‐aged children inSydney
Authors: Leone Jody F. , Mitchell Paul , Kifley Annette , Rose Kathryn A. ,   Sydney Childhood Eye Studies
Published: March 2014

Purpose

To provide population‐based normative visual acuity (VA) by age, in children participating in theSydneyPaediatricEyeDiseaseStudy aged 6 to <72 months.

Methods

MonocularVAwas measured using the Amblyopia Treatment Study (ATS HOTV) protocol (24 to <72 months). Some children were also tested using linearETDRSorHOTVlogMAR VAcharts (30 to <72 months). If unable to perform recognition acuity, the Teller Acuity CardsII(TAC II) was performed (6 to <42 months). Children with significant refractive error or ocular disease were excluded.

Results

Improvement inVAwith age was shown on all three vision tests (all p < 0.0001). MeanVAusingATS HOTV(n = 836) was 0.13 logMAR(6/8) at <36 months, which improved to −0.01 (6/6) at 66 to <72 months. MeanETDRS/HOTV(n = 399)VAwas 0.26 logMAR(6/11) at <36 months, which improved to 0.1 (6/7.5) at 66 to <72 months. Mean monocularTAC II(n = 442) was 5.7 cycles/degree (0.72 logMAR) at 6 to <9 months and improved to 12.4 cycles/degree (0.38 logMAR) at age 30 to <33 months. Associations withATS HOTV VAincluded prematurity (p = 0.027) and socio economic status (SES) factors such as home ownership (p = 0.039) and employment of one (p = 0.019) or both parents (p = 0.003).

Conclusions

VAnorms in children improved with age and were different according to theVAtest used. LowSESwas associated with poorerVA, supporting the need for test specificVAnorms to be established for different populations. TheATS HOTVappears to be the best test to use for vision screening due to its lower false positive referral rate.
Pure laparoscopic right‐sided hepatectomy in the semi‐prone position for synchronous colorectal cancer with liver metastases
Authors: Ida Satoshi , Oki Eiji , Ando Koji , Kimura Yasue , Yamashita Yo‐ichi , Saeki Hiroshi , Ikegami Toru , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Watanabe Masayuki , Morita Masaru , Shirabe Ken , Kusumoto Tetsuya , Ikeda Tetsuo , Baba Hideo , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Simultaneous resection for colorectal cancer and synchronous colorectal liver metastases (SCRLM) has been found to be safe and effective. However, pure laparoscopic simultaneous resection (PULSAR) for primary colorectal cancer and SCRLM is usually difficult, especially in the right lobe of the liver. The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of PULSAR for patients with primary colorectal cancer and SCRLM.

Methods

From January 2008 to December 2012, a total of 10 patients (9 men and 1woman; mean age, 64 years) underwent PULSAR for a primary tumor and SCRLM.

Results

Seven patients (70%) with lesions in the right lobe (segments 6, 7, and 8) successfully underwent resection with a pure laparoscopic procedure while in the left semi‐prone position. No patient was converted to conventional open surgery. The mean operative duration, volume of bleeding, and postoperative hospital stay were 606 ± 46 min, 585 ± 145 mL, and 18 ± 3.5 days, respectively. Although a liver abscess developed in one patient, no colonic complications or perioperative death occurred.

Conclusion

PULSAR for primary colorectal cancer and SCRLM is a feasible multidisciplinary treatment. Moreover, PULSAR can be safely and effectively performed with the patient in the semi‐prone position, even when SCRLM exists in the right lobe of the liver.
Innovations in Practice: ‘Go‐to’ Educator Training on the mental health competencies of educators in the secondary school setting: a program evaluation
Authors: Wei Yifeng , Kutcher Stan
Published: March 2014

Background

Educators can play an important role in early identification and triage of youth with mental disorders. This paper reports findings of a program evaluation of the ‘Go‐To’ Educator Training in a secondary school setting.

Methods

Pre‐ and posttests were administered.

Results

Participant mean scores on mental health competencies changed from 12 (40%) (standard deviation [SD] = 4.3) pretraining to 21 (70%) (SD = 3.3) posttraining, t(119) = 25.6, p < .0001, d = 2.3. Participant attitude mean scores improved from 49.9 (SD = 4.6) pretraining, to 51.5 (SD = 4.2), t(115) = 4.3, p < .0001, d = 0.36.

Conclusions

This training is a useful intervention to help educators identify youth with mental disorders and link them to appropriate services.
Quercetin enhances apoptotic effect of tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) in ovarian cancer cells through reactive oxygen species (ROS) mediated CCAAT enhancer‐binding protein homologous protein (CHOP)‐death receptor 5 pathway
Authors: Yi Liu , Zongyuan Yang , Cheng Gong , Lingyun Zhang , GuiLian Yu , Wei Gong
Published: March 2014

Although tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand (TRAIL) has shown efficacy in a phase 2 clinical trial, development of resistance to TRAIL by tumor cells is a major roadblock. We investigated whether quercetin, a flavonoid, can sensitize human ovarian cancer cells to TRAIL. Results indicate that quercetin sensitized cancer cells to TRAIL. The quercetin induced expression of death receptor DR5 but did not affect expression of DR4 in cancer cells. The induction of DR5 was mediated through activation of JNK and through upregulation of a transcription factor CCAAT enhancer‐binding protein homologous protein (CHOP); as silencing of these signaling molecules abrogated the effect of quercetin. Upregulation of DR5 was mediated through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), as ROS scavengers reduced the effect of quercetin on JNK activation, CHOP upregulation, DR induction, TRAIL sensitization, downregulated the expression of cell survival proteins and upregulated the proapoptotic proteins. Furthermore, quercetin enhances TRAIL mediated inhibition of tumor growth of human SKOV‐3 xenograft was associated with induction of apoptosis, activation of caspase‐3, CHOP and DR5. Overall, our data suggest that quercetin enhances apoptotic death of ovarian cancer cells to TRAIL through upregulation of CHOP‐induced DR5 expression following ROS mediated endoplasmic reticulum‐stress.
Physical inactivity as a risk factor for diabetic retinopathy? A review
Authors: Dirani Mohamed , Crowston Jonathan G , van Wijngaarden Peter
Published: March 2014

Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour have been identified as modifiable risk factors for diabetes. However, little is known of the associations between physical activity, sedentary behaviour and diabetic retinopathy. The development of diabetic retinopathy is associated with longer duration of diabetes, elevated blood pressure and poor glycaemic control. However these factors only explain a proportion of the risk of retinopathy in individuals with diabetes. Several studies have suggested a protective role for physical activity in diabetic retinopathy. Other work has shown that the time spent watching television is independently associated with abnormal retinal vascular signs. Limitations of the existing studies, such as the absence of objective measures of physical activity, a lack of sedentary behaviour measures, the inclusion of only those with type 1 diabetes and a lack of longitudinal data, make it difficult to draw firm conclusions about the strength of these associations.
A comprehensive search for mutations in the PKD1 and PKD2 in Japanese subjects with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Kurashige M. , Hanaoka K. , Imamura M. , Udagawa T. , Kawaguchi Y. , Hasegawa T. , Hosoya T. , Yokoo T. , Maeda S.
Published: March 2014

To elucidate the genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) in Japanese populations, we performed a comprehensive search for mutations in PKD1 and PKD2 in 180 Japanese ADPKD patients from 161 unrelated families. We identified 112 (89 PKD1 and 23 PKD2) mutations within 135 families. Patients with PKD2 mutations account for 23.6% of all Japanese ADPKD families in this study. Seventy‐five out of the 112 mutations have not been reported previously. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline was significantly faster in patients with PKD1 mutations than in those with PKD2 mutations (−3.25 and −2.08 ml min−1 year−1 for PKD1 and PKD2, respectively, p < 0.01). These results indicate that mutations within PKD1 and PKD2 can be linked to most of the cases of Japanese ADPKD, and the renal function decline was faster in patients with PKD1 mutations than in those with PKD2 mutations also in the Japanese ADPKD. We also found that PKD2 mutations were more frequent in Japanese ADPKD than that in European or American ADPKD.
Physicochemical investigation and spectral properties of Sunset Yellow dye in cetyltrimethylammonium bromide micellar solution under different pH conditions
Authors: Nazar Muhammad F , Murtaza Shahzad
Published: March 2014

To mimic binding to biological membranes, the extent of interaction of the efficient food dye Sunset Yellow with a cationic surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, was probed by quantifying its absorption and fluorescence emission spectra as a function of premicellar to post‐micellar surfactant concentration. The characteristics of the partition behaviour and spectral‐luminescent properties of Sunset Yellow–surfactant have been evaluated qualitatively as well as quantitatively for various cetyltrimethylammonium bromide concentrations. With the help of mathematical models, the water–micelle partition coefficient, the Sunset Yellow–cetyltrimethylammonium bromide binding constant, the binding capacity, and the degree of counterion binding were calculated at 25 °C under various pH conditions. The solubilisation of Sunset Yellow is also discussed from the thermodynamics viewpoint by considering the standard free energy change of dye solubilisation and the Sunset Yellow–cetyltrimethylammonium bromide binding energy. The high values of all these interactions indicate that the dye, being organic in nature, is partitioned largely from the aqueous environment to the palisade layer of the micelle. The solubilisation of the dye is enhanced by switching the pH to suppress the self‐aggregation of dye molecules. Combined with electrostatic forces, the hydrophobic interactions also play a promising role in the solubilisation of Sunset Yellow in the outer core of the micellar interior.
Allergens, germs and asthma
Authors: Scadding Glenis Kathleen
Published: March 2014

Objective

To explore asthma pathogenesis using data from upper and lower airways.

Data Source

English‐language papers on human asthma and nasal polyp subjects from 1990 onwards.

Study Selection

High‐quality studies in established journals.

Results

The recognition of its inflammatory nature led to a quantum leap in the understanding and treatment of asthma, with lives saved by inhaled corticosteroids. Further work at genetic, molecular, histological and clinical levels has shown that asthma is polymorphic and rarely involves isolated Th2 bronchial inflammation.

Viral infections may act as an initiating event in children and adults, showing synergy with atopy. Chronic staphylococcal colonization of the mucosa may act as a promoter, as in atopic dermatitis. These two observations may be linked, with viruses providing an entry for bacteria into the mucosal epithelium.

Conclusions

Most asthma begins in the nose and involves allergy and infection: both viral and bacterial. The combination of atopy and infection suggests new possibilities for therapy.
Species responses of colonising beetles to variation in patch quality, number, and context in experimental aquatic landscapes
Authors: RESETARITS WILLIAM J. , BINCKLEY CHRISTOPHER A.
Published: March 2014

Increased diversity with increasing habitat area is a well‐established ecological pattern. However, habitat selection theory suggests that patch quality rivals area in determining rates of colonisation and resulting community structure.

Colonisation by natural populations of aquatic beetles was quantified along gradients of increasing patch number and patch quality. Four circular experimental landscapes, each containing six unique locality types (combinations of number and type of patch), were established using 84 cattle tanks (volume 1000 litres) as patches. Patch quality varied in terms of the presence/absence and spatial proximity of predatory fish, and patch number varied from one to eight patches in each locality.

Patch quality significantly affected the colonisation rate of most aquatic beetle species in both major families (Dyticidae and Hydrophilidae), as species avoided patches containing fish and also showed spatial contagion of predation risk by avoiding fishless patches in close proximity to these predators. Effects of patch number were passive, resulting in linear increases in abundance, with rates highly dependent on patch quality.

Patch quality may equal or exceed landscape characteristics such as patch number in determining colonisation rate and abundance of colonising beetles, and in generating resulting patterns of species diversity.
Optimal foraging by an aphid parasitoid affects the outcome of apparent competition
Authors: PRADO SARA G. , FRANK STEVEN
Published: March 2014

Apparent competition is an indirect, negative interaction occurring between two or more host species, mediated by a shared parasitoid. Host species' population growth rates, parasitoid attack rates, and parasitoid population size can mediate the outcomes of apparent competition. It has also been suggested that optimal foraging by a natural enemy can influence the outcome of apparent competition, resulting in increased suppression of the optimal host.

While this has been shown in theory, to date no studies have empirically tested the link between parasitoid optimal foraging behaviour and the outcome of apparent competition.

The present study examined how optimal foraging behaviour influences the outcome of apparent competition in an aphid banker plant system. First, Aphidius colemani Viereck's preference for Myzus persicae Sulzer or Rhopalosiphum padi L., the non‐pest host on the banker plant, was examined, and then the difference in M. persicae suppression in the presence and absence of R. padi was assessed.

It was found that optimal foraging behaviour led female A. colemani to prefer M. persicae over R. padi, due to increased offspring survival and female size. Consequently, optimally foraging A. colemani parasitised significantly more M. persicae in the presence of both aphid hosts than in the presence of M. persicae alone.

Understanding the interaction between optimal foraging and apparent competition has important implications for biological control of arthropod pests and could help to predict the outcome of biological control programmes.
Oxygenation, oxygen delivery and anaesthesia in the horse
Authors: Hubbell J. A. E. , Muir W. W.
Published: March 2014

Horses are the most difficult of the common companion animals to anaesthetise. Hypoxaemia or inadequate oxygen delivery to peripheral tissues during anaesthesia would seem a potential cause of increased mortality, but no direct link has been established. A number of methods of increasing oxygenation and oxygen delivery have been reported, with varying results and potential applicability. The purpose of this article is to review the literature with regard to oxygenation, oxygen delivery and methods to improve each and to make recommendations for clinical application.
Human skin engages different epidermal layers to provide distinct innate defense mechanisms
Authors: Simanski Maren , Gläser Regine , Harder Jürgen
Published: March 2014

Keratinocytes are able to sense bacteria or bacterial products leading to a rapid defense reaction by the increased expression of antimicrobial peptides and cytokines. Recent data by Percoco and collaborators published in Experimental Dermatology indicate that bacteria colonizing the skin surface induce a differential spatial expression pattern of antimicrobial peptides and cytokines. Using laser capture microdissection followed by real‐time PCR as well as immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy, the authors provide evidence that antimicrobial peptides such as human beta‐defensin (hBD)‐2 and ‐3 were more strongly induced in the uppermost epidermal layers, whereas the main induction of cytokines such as IL‐1beta and IL‐6 occurred in the lower parts of the epidermis.
Glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 haplodeficiency impairs social behavior in mice
Authors: Sandhu K. V. , Lang D. , Müller B. , Nullmeier S. , Yanagawa Y. , Schwegler H. , Stork O.
Published: March 2014

Reduced glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD)67 expression may be causally involved in the development of social withdrawal in neuropsychiatric states such as autism, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. In this study, we report disturbance of social behavior in male GAD67 haplodeficient mice. GAD67+/− mice, compared to GAD67+/+ littermates, show reduced sociability and decreased intermale aggression, but normal nest building and urine marking behavior, as well as unchanged locomotor activity and anxiety‐like behavior. Moreover, the mutants display a reduced sensitivity to both social and non‐social odors, indicating a disturbance in the detection and/or processing of socially relevant olfactory stimuli. Indeed, we observed reduced activation of the lateral septum, medial preoptic area, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, medial and cortical amygdala upon exposure of GAD67+/− mice to social interaction paradigm, as indicated by c‐Fos immunohistochemistry. These data suggest a disturbance of stimulus processing in the brain circuitry controlling social behavior in GAD67+/− mice, which may provide a useful model for studying the impact of a reduced GAD67 expression on alterations of social behavior related to neuropsychiatric disorders.
The Influence of Streambed Heterogeneity on Hyporheic Flow in Gravelly Rivers
Authors: Zhou YaoQuan , Ritzi Robert W. , Soltanian Mohamad Reza , Dominic David F.
Published: March 2014

Deposits of open‐framework gravel occurring in gravelly streambeds can exert a significant influence on hyporheic flow. The influence was quantified using a numerical model of the hyporheic zone. The model included open‐framework gravel stratasets represented with commonly observed characteristics including a volume fraction of about one‐third of the streambed sediment, a hydraulic conductivity two orders of magnitude greater than other strata present, and a spatial connectivity forming preferential‐flow pathways. The influence of open‐framework gravel stratasets on hyporheic flow was much greater than the influence of the channel morphology including meanders, point bars, dunes, and ripples. Seventy percent of the total hyporheic exchange occurred across 30% of the channel boundary at locations of open‐framework gravel stratasets. The maximum local interfacial flux rates occurred at these locations, and were orders of magnitude greater than those at other locations. The local flux rates varied by six orders of magnitude over the channel boundary. The composite flow rate through the model with open‐framework gravel stratsets was an order of magnitude greater than that through an equivalent but homogeneous model.
Groundwater Availability as Constrained by Hydrogeology and Environmental Flows
Authors: Watson Katelyn A. , Mayer Alex S. , Reeves Howard W.
Published: March 2014

Groundwater pumping from aquifers in hydraulic connection with nearby streams has the potential to cause adverse impacts by decreasing flows to levels below those necessary to maintain aquatic ecosystems. The recent passage of the Great Lakes‐St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact has brought attention to this issue in the Great Lakes region. In particular, the legislation requires the Great Lakes states to enact measures for limiting water withdrawals that can cause adverse ecosystem impacts. This study explores how both hydrogeologic and environmental flow limitations may constrain groundwater availability in the Great Lakes Basin. A methodology for calculating maximum allowable pumping rates is presented. Groundwater availability across the basin may be constrained by a combination of hydrogeologic yield and environmental flow limitations varying over both local and regional scales. The results are sensitive to factors such as pumping time, regional and local hydrogeology, streambed conductance, and streamflow depletion limits. Understanding how these restrictions constrain groundwater usage and which hydrogeologic characteristics and spatial variables have the most influence on potential streamflow depletions has important water resources policy and management implications.
Management of orthopaedic surgery in rare bleeding disorders
Authors: Siboni S. M. , Biguzzi E. , Pasta G. , Mannucci P. M. , Mistretta C. , Fantini N. N. , Solimeno L. P. , Peyvandi F.
Published: March 2014

Knowledge regarding the management of orthopaedic surgery in patients with rare bleeding disorders (RBDs) is limited. Retrospective data collection and analysis of 35 orthopaedic procedures (6 minor and 29 major) carried out in 22 patients with RBD between 1982 and 2013. These surgeries were performed using heterogeneous regimens of hemostatic therapy, except for seven procedures performed with no hemostatic treatment in four patients with mild factor deficiency. Of the 28 procedures carried out with hemostatic treatment, nine (32%) were performed using replacement therapy with dosages of concentrates of the deficient factor aimed to achieve perioperative plasma levels judged to be compatible with hemostasis; three (11%) using factor replacement therapy associated with fresh frozen plasma (FFP); four (14%) using recombinant activated factor VII; four (14%) using virus inactivated plasma alone; three (11%) using virus inactivated plasma associated with desmopressin; one (4%) using FFP alone; and four (14%) procedures using tranexamic acid alone. Bleeding complications occurred in 7 of 35 procedures (20%) involving five patients. Prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism was performed only in one case with no excessive bleeding, but two patients not on thromboprophylaxis developed superficial thrombophlebitis. A satisfactory control of hemostasis was achieved in most patients. In some of those characterized by mild factor deficiency (FVII, FXI) hemostatic treatment could be avoided in some instances. The control of hemostasis combined with an adequate surgical technique is needed for the successful outcome of orthopaedic surgery in RBDs that requires the involvement of specialized haemophilia centres.
Recent advances in estimating hepatic functional reserve in patients with chronic liver damage
Authors: Imura Satoru , Shimada Mitsuo , Utsunomiya Tohru
Published: March 2014

Preoperative estimation of liver functional reserve is important in liver surgery to prevent postoperative liver failure. Although the hepatic functional reserve of patients with chronic liver disease is generally evaluated by measuring indocyanine green dye retention at 15 min, no standard method of estimating regional liver function has been established to date. Several recently introduced imaging modalities, such as hepatobiliary scintigraphy and magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium‐ethoxybenzyl‐diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid, may be used to evaluate liver function. Here, we review recent advances in estimating hepatic functional reserve, mainly by radiological modalities, in patients with chronic liver damage.
Emergency Contraceptive Knowledge and Use among Urban Women in Nigeria and Kenya
Authors: Morgan Gwendolyn , Keesbury Jill , Speizer Ilene
Published: March 2014

Rates of emergency contraceptive (EC) use in sub‐Saharan Africa are highest in Kenya and Nigeria, although little is known about user characteristics and use dynamics in these countries. To better meet women's emergency contraceptive needs and to contribute to the limited knowledge base regarding this method in Africa, this study examines data from a sample of EC users drawn from a large, representative household survey that included sexually experienced women in urban Kenya and Nigeria. Bivariate and multivariate analyses reveal greater knowledge of EC among these urban women than was reported in other nationally representative surveys. Recent users of EC were more likely to be in their 20s, unmarried, and more highly educated than never users or ever users of EC in both countries. Results contradict public perceptions of EC users as young adolescents and indicate the importance of strengthening EC provision in Africa, including targeting information and services to unmarried women and supporting private pharmacies in delivering quality services.
Developing the “120 by 20” Goal for the Global FP2020 Initiative
Authors: Brown Win , Druce Nel , Bunting Julia , Radloff Scott , Koroma Desmond , Gupta Srishti , Siems Brian , Kerrigan Monica , Kress Dan , Darmstadt Gary L.
Published: March 2014

This report describes the purpose for developing a quantitative goal for the London Summit on Family Planning held in July 2012, the methodology behind its formulation, and the lessons learned in the process. The London Summit has evolved into the global initiative known as FP2020, and the goal has become “120 by 20,” or reaching 120 million additional users of modern contraceptive methods by 2020 in the world's poorest countries. The success of FP2020 will first be evaluated on the basis of quantitative verification to determine that the “120 by 20” goal was reached. More important, however, is the extent to which the goal today serves as a global rallying cry to mobilize resources and leadership around current family planning programs, with a focus on voluntary family planning and quality of care, and with an emphasis on meeting girls' and women's unmet needs and their right to practice contraception. We hope this article provides greater transparency and understanding of the FP2020 goal, and that the global goal spurs annual monitoring of progress toward national goals in the world's poorest countries.
Systematic Review of Restraint Interventions for Challenging Behaviour Among Persons with Intellectual Disabilities: Focus on Experiences
Authors: Heyvaert Mieke , Saenen Lore , Maes Bea , Onghena Patrick
Published: March 2014

Background

This article is the second in a two‐part series. Heyvaert et al. focused on the effectiveness of restraint interventions (RIs) for reducing challenging behaviour among persons with intellectual disabilities) in the first article. In this second article, Heyvaert et al. focus on experiences with RIs for challenging behaviour among people with intellectual disabilities.

Methods

A mixed methods research synthesis involving statistical meta‐analysis and qualitative meta‐synthesis techniques was applied to synthesize 76 retrieved articles. This second article reports on the qualitative meta‐synthesis of 17 articles on experiences with RIs for challenging behaviour among people with intellectual disabilities.

Results

The 17 included articles report on important variables relating to the persons receiving RIs, to the persons giving RIs and to their interactions and relationship, as well as variables situated at the meso‐ and macro‐level.

Conclusions

The developed model can assist in reflecting on and improving of current RI practices among people with intellectual disabilities.
Prognostic Differences of the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form and Long Form in Relation to 1‐Year Functional Decline and Mortality in Community‐Dwelling Older Adults Receiving Home Care
Authors: Kiesswetter Eva , Pohlhausen Stefanie , Uhlig Katrin , Diekmann Rebecca , Lesser Stephanie , Uter Wolfgang , Heseker Helmut , Stehle Peter , Sieber Cornel C. , Volkert Dorothee
Published: March 2014

Objectives

To compare the prognostic value of the revised Mini Nutritional Assessment short form (MNA‐SF) classification with that of the long form (MNA‐LF) in relation to mortality and functional change in community‐dwelling older adults receiving home care in Germany.

Design

Multicenter, 1‐year prospective observational study.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Older adults (≥65) receiving home care (n = 309).

Measurements

Nutritional status (well nourished, at risk of malnutrition, malnourished) was classified using the MNA‐SF and MNA‐LF at baseline. Functional status was determined according to the Barthel Index of activities of daily living (ADLs) at baseline and after 1 year. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of mortality were calculated for MNA‐SF and MNA‐LF categories using stepwise Cox regression analyses. Repeated‐measurements analysis of covariance was used to examine changes in ADL scores over time for MNA‐SF and MNA‐LF categories.

Results

MNA‐SF classified 15% of the sample as malnourished and 41% as being at risk of malnutrition, whereas the MNA‐LF classified 14% and 58%, respectively. During the follow‐up year, 15% of participants died. The estimated hazard ratios (HR) for 1‐year mortality were lower for MNA‐SF than for MNA‐LF categories (at risk of malnutrition: HR = 2.21, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02−4.75 vs HR = 5.05, 95% CI = 1.53−16.58; malnourished: HR = 3.27, 95% CI = 1.34−8.02 vs HR = 8.75, 95% CI = 2.45−31.18). For MNA‐SF categories, no differences in functional change were found. According to the MNA‐LF, ADL decline tended to be greater in those at risk of malnutrition (7.1 ± 10.1 points) than in those who were well nourished (3.7 ± 10.1 points) and malnourished (4.9 ± 10.1 points).

Conclusion

In this sample of older adults receiving home care, the MNA‐LF was superior to the MNA‐SF in predicting mortality and differentiating functional decline during 1 year of follow‐up.
Matrix metalloproteinase 2 and membrane type 1 matrix metalloproteinase co‐regulate axonal outgrowth of mouse retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Gaublomme Djoere , Buyens Tom , De Groef Lies , Stakenborg Michelle , Janssens Els , Ingvarsen Signe , Porse Astrid , Behrendt Niels , Moons Lieve
Published: March 2014

Restoration of correct neural activity following central nervous system (CNS) damage requires the replacement of degenerated axons with newly outgrowing, functional axons. Unfortunately, spontaneous regeneration is largely lacking in the adult mammalian CNS. In order to establish successful regenerative therapies, an improved understanding of axonal outgrowth and the various molecules influencing it, is highly needed. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) constitute a family of zinc‐dependent proteases that were sporadically reported to influence axon outgrowth. Using an ex vivo retinal explant model, we were able to show that broad‐spectrum MMP inhibition reduces axon outgrowth of mouse retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), implicating MMPs as beneficial factors in axonal regeneration. Additional studies, using more specific MMP inhibitors and MMP‐deficient mice, disclosed that both MMP‐2 and MT1‐MMP, but not MMP‐9, are involved in this process. Furthermore, administration of a novel antibody to MT1‐MMP that selectively blocks pro‐MMP‐2 activation revealed a functional co‐involvement of these proteinases in determining RGC axon outgrowth. Subsequent immunostainings showed expression of both MMP‐2 and MT1‐MMP in RGC axons and glial cells. Finally, results from combined inhibition of MMP‐2 and β1‐integrin were suggestive for a functional interaction between these molecules. Overall, our data indicate MMP‐2 and MT1‐MMP as promising axonal outgrowth‐promoting molecules.

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Axonal regeneration in the central nervous system is lacking in adult mammals, thereby impeding recovery from injury to the nervous system. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) constitute a family of zinc‐dependent proteases that were sporadically reported to influence axon outgrowth. Inhibition of specific MMPs reduced neurite outgrowth from mouse retinal explants. Our data indicate MMP‐2 and MT1‐MMP as promising axonal outgrowth‐promoting molecules and show a possible link between MMP‐2 and β1‐integrin in axon outgrowth.
Landownership Distribution, Socio‐Economic Precariousness and Empowerment: The Role of Small Peasants in Maresme County (Catalonia, Spain) from 1850 to the 1950s
Authors: Parcerisas Lluís
Published: March 2014

I present fresh data that show the leading role played by smallholder peasants in land‐use intensification, technical improvement and landscape transformation in Maresme County (province of Barcelona, Spain) between 1850 and the 1950s. As a reaction to their precarious situation, caused by an unequal landownership distribution (which is assessed by looking at the minimum‐income and maximum workable farm sizes), smallholders drove agrarian changes in this coastal Mediterranean area. The results of their individual efforts, and their collective action through social mobilization and cooperatives, entailed a socio‐economic and political improvement, especially in denser populated areas closer to markets, until the arrival of Franco's regime.
Benefit of palliative chemotherapy and hospice enrollment in late‐stage ovarian cancer patients
Authors: Tsubamoto Hiroshi , Ito Yoshihiro , Kanazawa Riichiro , Wada Ryu , Hosoda Yoko , Honda Okuto , Takeyama Ryu , Sakane Riya , Wakimoto Yu , Shibahara Hiroaki
Published: March 2014

Aim

The ideal timing for transition to best supportive care (BSC) for ovarian cancer patients is not clear. We retrospectively assessed the survival benefit of continuing chemotherapy and hospice enrollment in late‐stage ovarian cancer patients.

Materials and Methods

Eligibility criteria included platinum and taxane treatment, clinical progression within 6 months of the last platinum dose, and progression during chemotherapy.

Results

Of the 55 eligible patients (median overall survival after first becoming refractory [1st Ref], 96 days), 22 received chemotherapy (Chemo group), two received radiation therapy, and 13 had medical contraindications for subsequent chemotherapy. The remaining 18 patients (BSC group) were compared with the Chemo group. The Chemo and BSC groups had similar background characteristics, except for the rate of consultation with a regional palliative care physician before or within 1 week of 1st Ref (9% vs 50%, respectively). In multivariate analysis, chemotherapy (hazard ratio 0.251, P = 0.005) and hospice enrollment (hazard ratio, 0.274, P = 0.023) were predictive factors of survival after 1st Ref.

Conclusions

Chemotherapy after 1st Ref can be offered and hospice enrollment during the terminal stages is encouraged for recurrent ovarian cancer patients.
Intravascular Ultrasound Predictors of CD163 Positive Macrophage Infiltration
Authors: SATO TAKAO , KAMEYAMA TOMOKI , UENO HIROSHI , INOUE HIROSHI
Published: March 2014

Objectives

The present study aimed to determine characteristics of macrophage accumulation and predictors of CD163 positive macrophages by ultrasonic tissue characterization.

Background

Intraplaque hemorrhage is associated with plaque instability and induces macrophage accumulation with a scavenger receptor, CD163. These CD163 positive macrophages have anti‐atherogenic property.

Methods

In 50 patients with acute coronary syndrome, lumen, vessel and plaque area, and plaque components (% fibrous, % fibro fatty, % dense calcium, and % necrotic core) of the culprit lesion were determined by virtual histology (VH) intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). Remodeling index (RI) was also determined. Atherothrombotic debris of the culprit lesion was collected during percutaneous coronary intervention using a distal protection device. CD163 positive macrophages and glycophorin A (a protein specific to erythrocytes) were determined immunohistochemically.

Results

Percentage of CD163 positive macrophages to the whole cells (% CD163) correlated positively with lumen, vessel and plaque area, and RI. Further, % CD163 had significant positive correlation with % necrotic core and negative correlation with % dense calcium. Immunopositive areas of glycophorin A (% glycophorin A), expressed as the ratio of positively stained areas per total tissue, had a significant positive correlation with % CD163. On multivariate analysis, % necrotic core, % dense calcium, and RI were independent determinants of % CD163.

Conclusion

Positive remodeling and large necrotic core without calcification on VH‐IVUS were likely to indicate coronary intraplaque hemorrhage with CD163 positive macrophages infiltration. (J Interven Cardiol 2014;27:317–324)
Temporal profile and amplitude of human masseter muscle activity is adapted to food properties during individual chewing cycles
Authors: Grigoriadis A. , Johansson R. S. , Trulsson M.
Published: March 2014

Jaw actions adapt to the changing properties of food that occur during a masticatory sequence. In the present study, we investigated how the time‐varying activation profile of the masseter muscle changes during natural chewing in humans and how food hardness affects the profile. We recorded surface electromyography (EMG) of the masseter muscle together with the movement of the lower jaw in 14 healthy young adults (mean age 22) when chewing gelatin‐based model food of two different hardness. The muscle activity and the jaw kinematics were analysed for different phases of the chewing cycles. The increase in the excitatory drive of the masseter muscle was biphasic during the jaw‐closing phase showing early and late components. The transition between these components occurred approximately at the time of tooth–food contact. During the masticatory sequence, when the food was particularised, the size of the early component as well as the peak amplitude of the EMG significantly decreased along with a reduction in the duration of the jaw‐closing phase. Except for amplitude scaling, food hardness did not appreciably affect the muscle's activation profile. In conclusion, when chewing food during natural conditions, masseter muscle activation adapted throughout the masticatory sequence, principally during the jaw‐closing phase and influenced both early and late muscle activation components. Furthermore, the adaptation of jaw actions to food hardness was affected by amplitude scaling of the magnitude of the muscle activity throughout the masticatory sequence.
Treatment of tropical forages with exogenous fibrolytic enzymes: effects on chemical composition and in vitro rumen fermentation
Authors: Díaz A. , Ranilla M. J. , Giraldo L. A. , Tejido M. L. , Carro M. D.
Published: March 2014

The effects of three treatments of fibrolytic enzymes (cellulase from Trichoderma longibrachiatum (CEL), xylanase from rumen micro‐organisms (XYL) and a 1:1 mixture of CEL and XYL (MIX) on the in vitro fermentation of two samples of Pennisetum clandestinum (P1 and P2), two samples of Dichanthium aristatum (D1 and D2) and one sample of each Acacia decurrens and Acacia mangium (A1 and A2) were investigated. The first experiment compared the effects of two methods of applying the enzymes to forages, either at the time of incubation or 24 h before, on the in vitro gas production. In general, the 24 h pre‐treatment resulted in higher values of gas production rate, and this application method was chosen for a second study investigating the effects of enzymes on chemical composition and in vitro fermentation of forages. The pre‐treatment with CEL for 24 h reduced (p < 0.05) the content of neutral detergent fibre (NDF) of P1, P2, D1 and D2, and that of MIX reduced the NDF content of P1 and D1, but XYL had no effect on any forage. The CEL treatment increased (p < 0.05) total volatile fatty acid (VFA) production for all forages (ranging from 8.6% to 22.7%), but in general, no effects of MIX and XYL were observed. For both P. clandestinum samples, CEL treatment reduced (p < 0.05) the molar proportion of acetate and increased (p < 0.05) that of butyrate, but only subtle changes in VFA profile were observed for the rest of forages. Under the conditions of the present experiment, the treatment of tropical forages with CEL stimulated their in vitro ruminal fermentation, but XYL did not produce any positive effect. These results showed clearly that effectiveness of enzymes varied with the incubated forage and further study is warranted to investigate specific, optimal enzyme‐substrate combinations.
Intestinal drug transport: ex vivo evaluation of the interactions between ABC transporters and anthelmintic molecules
Authors: Ballent M. , Maté L. , Virkel G. , Sallovitz J. , Viviani P. , Lanusse C. , Lifschitz A.
Published: March 2014

The family of ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporters is composed of several transmembrane proteins that are involved in the efflux of a large number of drugs including ivermectin, a macrocyclic lactone (ML) endectocide, widely used in human and livestock antiparasitic therapy. The aim of the work reported here was to assess the interaction between three different anthelmintic drugs with substrates of the P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) and the breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP). The ability of ivermectin (IVM), moxidectin (MOX) and closantel (CST) to modulate the intestinal transport of both rhodamine 123 (Rho 123), a P‐gp substrate, and danofloxacin (DFX), a BCRP substrate, across rat ileum was studied by performing the Ussing chamber technique. Compared to the controls, Rho 123 efflux was significantly reduced by IVM (69%), CST (51%) and the positive control PSC833 (65%), whereas no significant differences were observed in the presence of MOX (30%). In addition, DFX efflux was reduced between 59% and 72% by all the assayed drug molecules, showing a higher potency than that observed in the presence of the specific BCRP inhibitor pantoprazole (PTZ) (52%). An ex vivo intestinal transport approach based on the diffusion chambers technique may offer a complementary tool to study potential drug interactions with efflux transporters such as P‐gp and BCRP.
Use of the novel atypical opioid tapentadol in goats (Capra hircus): pharmacokinetics after intravenous, and intramuscular administration
Authors: Lavy E. , Lee H.‐K. , Mabjeesh S.J. , Sabastian C. , Baker Y. , Giorgi M.
Published: March 2014

The objective of the present study was to assess the pharmacokinetics of the novel atypical drug tapentadol (TAP) after intravenous (I.V.) and intramuscular (I.M.) injections in clinically healthy goats. A 2 × 2 cross‐over design study was carried out. Six local adultNubian nonlactating, nonpregnant female goats, were given 5 mg/kg body weight ofTAPbyI.V.andI.M.routes. The concentrations ofTAPin plasma were evaluated using a validatedHPLCmethod. Transient adverse effects were noticed in some animals, especially afterI.V.administration (tremors and ataxia). Three days after drug administration, severe hair loss was also recorded. The plasma concentrations after the two routes of administration were best described by a bi‐compartmental model. AfterI.M.injection,TAPshowed a very fast absorption (Tmax = 0.17 h) and a short half‐life (1.29 h). TheI.M.bioavailability was quite high, despite being variable (87.8 ± 35.6%). This is the first pharmacokinetic study ofTAPin goats but due to its unknown safety profile and efficacy, it is premature to recommend the use of this drug in clinical ovine practice.
Made of the Mist: Nineteenth‐Century British and American Views of Niagara II
Authors: Hallett Adam
Published: March 2014

Writing within the conventions of the European sublime was often problematic for 19th‐century travel writers who found Niagara had no Old World precedent. Frances and Anthony Trollope, Dickens, Hawthorne, Margaret Fuller, Twain, and Henry James all made important contributions to the literary development of the Fall's treatment in the 19th century, when they first became widely written upon, painted, and commodified after the 1825 completion of the Erie Canal. This article explores the importance of these authors' points of view of the cataract in relation to silence, guidebook empiricism, guidebook Romanticism, irreverence, and the problematic prospect of coming to terms with the Falls as a commercial and tourist destination.