bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Description of the Madden–Julian Oscillation Based on a Self-Organizing Map
Authors: Chattopadhyay Rajib , Vintzileos Augustin , Zhang Chidong
Published: September 2012

This study introduces a nonlinear clustering technique based on a self-organizing map (SOM) algorithm to identify horizontal and vertical structures of the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) through its life cycle. The SOM description of the MJO does not need intraseasonal bandpass filtering or selection of leading modes. MJO phases are defined by SOM based on state similarities in chosen variables. Spatial patterns of rainfall-related variables in a given MJO phase defined by SOM are distinct from those in other phases. The structural evolution of the MJO derived from SOM agrees with those from other methods in certain aspects and differs in others. SOM reveals that the dominant longitudinal structure in the diabatic heating and related fields of the MJO is a dipole or tripole pattern with a zonal scale close to that of zonal wavenumber 2, as opposed to zonal wavenumber 1 suggested by other methods. Results from SOM suggest that the MJO life cycle may be composed of quasi-stationary stages of strong, coherent spatial patterns with relatively fast transition in between that is less coherent and weaker. The utility of SOM to isolate signals of an individual MJO event in a case study is illustrated. The results from this study show that some known gross features of the MJO are independent of diagnostic methods, but other properties of the MJO may be sensitive to the choice of diagnosis method.
The Differential Role of Classroom Working Alliance in Predicting School-Related Outcomes for Students With and Without High-Incidence Disabilities
Authors: Toste Jessica R. , Bloom Elana L. , Heath Nancy L.
Published: September 2012

Although quality of the teacher–student relationship contributes to school adjustment, students who experience difficulties appear to be least likely to benefit from positive interactions with their teachers. It was of interest to explore a broadened conceptualization of teacher–student relationship that considers both emotional connection and collaborative partnership—classroom working alliance—among students with high-incidence disabilities. This study sought to examine ratings of classroom working alliance for students with and without disabilities, as well as the interaction of disability status with teacher- or student-rated alliance variables in predicting school-related outcomes. Results revealed that teachers had more negative perceptions of their alliances with students with disabilities. Strong working alliance, as rated by the teacher, predicted positive social and behavioral outcomes for all students. Furthermore, students’ ratings of the collaborative elements of alliance were found to predict greater academic competence and school satisfaction for students with disabilities when compared with their peers.
Current Practices in Preclinical Drug Development
Authors: Schultze A. Eric , Walker Dana B. , Turk James R. , Tarrant Jacqueline M. , Brooks Marjory B. , Pettit Syril D.
Published: September 2012

The Health and Environmental Sciences Institute Cardiac Biomarkers Working Group surveyed the pharmaceutical development community to investigate practices in assessing hemostasis, including detection of hypocoagulable and hypercoagulable states. Scientists involved in discovery, preclinical, and clinical research were queried on laboratory evaluation of endothelium, platelets, coagulation, and fibrinolysis during safety assessment studies. Results indicated that laboratory assessment of hemostasis is inconsistent among institutions and not harmonized between preclinical and clinical studies. Hemostasis testing in preclinical drug safety studies primarily focuses on the risk of bleeding, whereas the clinical complication of thrombosis is seldom assessed. Our results reveal the need for broader utilization of biomarkers to detect altered hemostasis (e.g., endothelial and platelet activation) to improve preclinical safety assessments early in the drug development process. Survey respondents indicated a critical lack of validated markers of hypercoagulability and subclinical thrombosis in animal testing. Additional obstacles included limited blood volume, lack of cross-reacting antibodies for hemostasis testing in laboratory species, restricted availability of specialized hemostasis analyzers, and few centers of expertise in animal hemostasis testing. Establishment of translatable biomarkers of prothrombotic states in multiple species and strategic implementation of testing on an industry-wide basis are needed to better avert untoward drug complications in patient populations.
Microstructure and biological activity of sulfonated N-vinylpyrrolidone copolymers
Authors: Tardajos Myriam G , García-Fernández Luis , Reinecke Helmut , Aguilar María R , Gallardo Alberto , Román Julio S
Published: September 2012

This article deals with the preparation, characterization, and in vitro evaluation of new copolymers based on functionalized N-vinylpyrrolidone bearing pendant sulfonic acid groups statistically or alternately distributed in the macromolecular chains. Statistical copolymers were obtained by free radical polymerization of N-vinylpyrrolidone and sulfonated N-vinylpyrrolidone ( r VP = 1.61; r VPSulf = 0.90) in water, and alternating copolymers were synthesized by free radical polymerization of N-vinylpyrrolidone or sulfonated N-vinylpyrrolidone with methyl maleate in N,N-dimethylformamide followed by hydrolysis of the resulting copolymers. The influence of these new materials on acidic fibroblast growth factor–mediated mitogenesis of fibroblasts demonstrated that sequence distribution (copolymer microstructure) plays a key role in the biological performance of these polymers. Alternating copolymers did not present biological activity, whereas statistical copolymers inhibited acidic fibroblast growth factor activity in a sulfonated N-vinylpyrrolidone dose-dependent manner.
Factors Affecting IUCD Discontinuation in Nepal
Authors: Thapa Subash , Paudel Ishwari Sharma , Bhattarai Sailesh , Joshi Ranjila , Thapa Kabita
Published: September 2012

Information related to contraception discontinuation, especially in the context of Nepal is very limited. A nested case-control study was carried out to determine the factors affecting discontinuation of intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUCDs). A total of 115 cases (IUCD discontinuers) and 115 controls (IUCD continuers) were randomly selected based on the data obtained from the user’s record of a family planning center in Kathmandu. Matching criteria were age during insertion and date of insertion of IUCD. Logistic regression was used to analyze the data. When cases were compared with controls, the results showed that place of residence, sex of last child, reproductive intention, experience of side effects, and follow-up practice were associated with discontinuation of the IUCD. Experience of side effects has been seen as the major reason for discontinuation. The results suggest that side effects after IUCD insertion should be properly discussed and promptly treated to reduce the discontinuation rate.
What Affects Clean Delivery Kit Utilization at Birth in Nepal? A Qualitative Study
Authors: Morrison Joanna , Jacoby Caroline , Ghimire Sagar , Oyloe Peter
Published: September 2012

Background: Infection is one of the biggest causes of maternal and neonatal death in low-income countries. Clean Delivery Kits (CDKs) promote clean delivery and neonatal care. Our qualitative research explores reasons for low CDK utilization, and describes community perceptions of CDKs in Nepal. Methods: We conducted 18 focus group discussions and 40 interviews with CDK users and nonusers, service providers, birth attendants, and household decision makers in 6 districts. We also conducted interviews with central level personnel. CDK users were aware of its benefits, and utilization was largely compatible with birth practices. Utilization was prevented by lack of awareness about the benefits and lack of availability. Participants believed that CDKs were for home use. Conclusion: Poor promotion of CDK is related to the disjuncture of promoting CDK use, while encouraging institutional deliveries. If CDKs are made available and marketed for use in households and health institutions, utilization may increase.
Sexual and Reproductive Health of Micronesians
Authors: Smith Sarah A.
Published: September 2012

Introduction. Recent evidence of negative sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes for Micronesian migrants warrants a review of what is currently known about Micronesian SRH beliefs, customs, behaviors, outcomes, and access to SRH services. Methods. A systematic literature review employing the matrix method was conducted using the same key terms for 8 databases. Peer-reviewed articles published between 1990 and 2010 were abstracted for several key components, including topics, methodology, and other important elements necessary to assess major findings, strengths, and weaknesses. Results. Thirty-two articles matched the inclusion criteria for review. Of these articles, the major research of interest was behavior relating to sexual risk behavior, pregnancy, health care seeking, and HIV/AIDS for various populations throughout Micronesia. Study populations ranged from pregnant women seeking prenatal care to students in high school. Conclusion. No cohesive body of SRH literature exists for one topic or one community within Micronesia to date.
A Cross-Cultural Comparison of Sleep Duration Between U.S. and Australian Adolescents
Authors: Short Michelle A. , Gradisar Michael , Lack Leon C. , Wright Helen R. , Dewald Julia F. , Wolfson Amy R. , Carskadon Mary A.
Published: September 2012

Study Objective. To test whether sleep duration on school nights differs between adolescents in Australia and the United States and, if so, whether this difference is explained by cultural differences in school start time, parental involvement in setting bedtimes, and extracurricular commitments. Participants. Three hundred eighty-five adolescents aged 13 to 18 years ( M = 15.57, SD = 0.95; 60% male) from Australia and 302 adolescents aged 13 to 19 years ( M = 16.03, SD = 1.19; 35% male) from the United States. Methods. Adolescents completed the School Sleep Habits Survey during class time, followed by an 8-day sleep diary. Results. After controlling for age and gender, Australian adolescents obtained an average of 47 minutes more sleep per school night than those in the United States. Australian adolescents were more likely to have a parent-set bedtime (17.5% vs. 6.8%), have a later school start time (8:32 a.m. vs. 7:45 a.m.), and spend less time per day on extracurricular commitments (1 h 37 min vs. 2 h 41 min) than their U.S. peers. The mediating factors of parent-set bedtimes, later school start times, and less time spent on extracurricular activities were significantly associated with more total sleep. Conclusions. In addition to biological factors, extrinsic cultural factors significantly affect adolescent sleep. The present study highlights the importance of a cross-cultural, ecological approach and the impact of early school start times, lack of parental limit setting around bedtimes, and extracurricular load in limiting adolescent sleep.
Examining the Longitudinal Relationship Between Change in Sleep and Obesity Risk in Adolescents
Authors: Lytle Leslie A. , Murray David M. , Laska Melissa N. , Pasch Keryn E. , Anderson Sarah E. , Farbakhsh Kian
Published: September 2012

Evidence is building regarding the association between inadequate amounts of sleep and the risk of obesity, especially in younger children. Less is known about the relationship between change in sleep and change in weight during adolescence. The objective of this study was to examine the longitudinal relationship between change in sleep duration and change in body mass index (BMI) and percent body fat (PBF) in a cohort of adolescents. The cohort included 723 adolescents (mean age = 14.7 years at baseline) from Minnesota. Total sleep duration was assessed via self-report. BMI and PBF were objectively assessed. Covariates used in the multivariate analyses included energy intake as assessed through 24-hour recalls, activity levels as assessed by accelerometers, screen time/sedentary behavior, depression, and sociodemographic characteristics. For both males and females, average BMI and PBF increased slightly over the 2 years and average sleep duration decreased by about 30 minutes. The authors saw no statistically significant longitudinal relationships between change in total sleep and change in BMI or PBF over time in either girls or boys. The only longitudinal relationship that approached statistical significance was a positive association between sleep and PBF in females ( p = .068). This research contributes to the literature as the only study to date to examine how change in sleep duration during adolescence may be related to a concomitant change in BMI and body fat. The findings of this study do not support the hypothesis that a decline in sleep duration during adolescence increases obesity risk.
Unity in Diversity
Authors: Tobin Karin , Kuramoto Satoko J. , German Danielle , Fields Errol , Spikes Pilgrim S. , Patterson Jocelyn , Latkin Carl
Published: September 2012

Unity in Diversity was a randomized controlled trial of a culturally tailored HIV prevention intervention for African American men who have sex with men. The intervention condition was six group-based sessions and one individual session. The control condition was a single-session HIV prevention review. Participants were aged 18 years or older, identified as African American/Black race, reported having at least two sex partners in the prior 90 days (at least one of whom must be a male partner), unprotected anal sex with male partner in the prior 90 days, and willing to test for HIV. Retention exceeded 95% at 3-month follow-up. Results of multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusting for baseline risk, HIV status, and health insurance indicate intervention efficacy in decreasing the number of male sex partners and marginal effects on condom use with male partners and HIV-negative/unknown partners. Specifically, intervention condition was associated with increased odds of zero male sex partners (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.26-7.28), condom use with male partners (AOR = 2.64, 95% CI = 0.95-7.36), and HIV-negative/unknown status partners (AOR = 3.19, 95% CI = 0.98-10.38) at follow-up. These results contribute to the limited number of culturally appropriate models of HIV prevention intervention that are urgently needed for African American men who have sex with men to address their persistently high rates of HIV.
Promoting Patient Phronesis
Authors: Rief John J. , Mitchell Gordon R. , Zickmund Susan L. , Bhargava Tina D. , Bryce Cindy L. , Fischer Gary S. , Hess Rachel , Kolb N. Randall , Simkin-Silverman Laurey R. , McTigue Kathleen M.
Published: September 2012

Phronesis, or practical wisdom developed through experience, is an Aristotelian concept that can shed light on the capacities of patients to make health-related decisions and engage in healthy behaviors. In this article, the authors develop a conceptual framework for understanding the role of phronesis in lifestyle change as well as its relationship to patient activation, which is considered to be a critical component of the Chronic Care Model and patient education in general. The authors develop the concept of phronesis by analyzing qualitatively the comments made by 35 participants working to manage chronic health issues in a weight-loss study. The authors iteratively coded transcribed passages of exit interviews for phronesis and patient activation. These passages provide experientially grounded content for evaluating the use of phronesis and its development among individuals engaging in lifestyle change. Phronesis is expressed in 31% of participant responses to questions regarding the relationship between the online lifestyle intervention, participant health, and participant readiness to engage in productive clinical encounters with health care practitioners. Of those responses, 73% express some level of patient activation. The authors conclude that phronesis may be an important new tool for understanding successful self-management support, with potential usefulness in the creation of tailored lifestyle interventions, the development of patient activation, and the ability of participants to enact health-related behaviors.
Are Self-Management Interventions Suitable for All? Comparing Obese Versus Nonobese Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Kroese Floor M. , Adriaanse Marieke A. , De Ridder Denise T. D.
Published: September 2012

Objective. The aim of the current study was to compare obese and nonobese type 2 diabetes patients at baseline and after participating in an existing self-management intervention (i.e., Beyond Good Intentions) on cognitive, self-care, and behavioral measures to examine whether both groups are equally prepared and able to adopt self-management approaches. Methods. A total of 94 type 2 diabetes patients were included, of whom 64 (59% male) completed the study. The final sample consisted of 27 obese (33% male) and 37 nonobese (78% male) patients. The intervention comprised one individual and four group sessions and aimed to improve self-management behavior by enhancing proactive coping skills (i.e., setting concrete goals, identifying barriers, coping with difficult situations, action planning, and progress evaluation). Cognitive (i.e., proactive coping, self-control, self-efficacy), self-care (i.e., adherence to lifestyle recommendations), and behavioral (i.e., diet, exercise) measures were assessed at baseline and after completing the intervention. Results. At baseline, obese patients reported to possess lower cognitive skills and lower adherence to lifestyle recommendations compared with nonobese patients. The intervention was effective in improving cognitive skills, self-care activities, as well as dietary and exercise behaviors. Improvements were equal for obese and nonobese patients. However, obese patients were more likely to drop out. Conclusions. Although obese type 2 diabetes patients were found to possess limited skills at baseline compared with nonobese patients, the self-management course proved to be equally effective for both groups.
Approaches to Increase Arsenic Awareness in Bangladesh
Authors: George Christine Marie , Factor-Litvak Pam , Khan Khalid , Islam Tariqul , Singha Ashit , Moon-Howard Joyce , van Geen Alexander , Graziano Joseph H.
Published: September 2012

The objective of this study was to design and evaluate a household-level arsenic education and well water arsenic testing intervention to increase arsenic awareness in Bangladesh. The authors randomly selected 1,000 study respondents located in 20 villages in Singair, Bangladesh. The main outcome was the change in knowledge of arsenic from baseline to follow-up 4 to 6 months after the household received the intervention. This was assessed through a pre- and postintervention quiz concerning knowledge of arsenic. Respondents were between 18 and 102 years of age, with an average age of 37 years; 99.9% were female. The knowledge of arsenic quiz scores for study participants were significantly higher at follow-up compared with baseline. The intervention was effective in increasing awareness of the safe uses of arsenic-contaminated water and dispelling the misconception that boiling water removes arsenic. At follow-up, nearly all respondents were able to correctly identify the meaning of a red (contaminated) and green (arsenic safe) well relative to arsenic (99%). The educational program also significantly increased the proportion of respondents who were able to correctly identify the health implications of arsenic exposure. However, the intervention was not effective in dispelling the misconceptions in the population that arsenicosis is contagious and that illnesses such as cholera, diarrhea, and vomiting could be caused by arsenic. Further research is needed to develop effective communication strategies to dispel these misconceptions. This study demonstrates that a household-level arsenic educational program can be used to significantly increase arsenic awareness in Bangladesh.
A Test of the Theory of Planned Behavior to Predict Physical Activity in an Overweight/Obese Population Sample of Adolescents From Alberta, Canada
Authors: Plotnikoff Ronald C. , Lubans David R. , Costigan Sarah A. , McCargar Linda
Published: September 2012

Purpose. To examine the utility of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) for explaining physical activity (PA) intention and behavior among a large population sample of overweight and obese adolescents (Alberta, Canada), using a web-based survey. Secondary objectives were to examine the mediating effects of the TPB constructs and moderating effects of weight status. Methods. A subsample of 427 overweight and 133 obese participants ( n = 560), completed a self-administered web-based questionnaire on health and PA behaviors, including assessment of attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control (PBC), and intention to participate in regular PA. Structural equation models were examined using AMOS 17.0. Results. Overall, 62% of the variance in intention was accounted for by attitude, subjective norm, and PBC; whereas 44% of the variance in PA behavior was explained by PBC and intention. When examining the TPB separately in overweight and obese subsamples, 66% and 56% of the variance for PA intention was explained for overweight and obese subsamples, respectively; and 38% and 56% of the variance in PA behavior were accounted for in the overweight and obese subsamples. Overall, attitude was the strongest predictor of PA intention, whereas PBC was the strongest predictor for PA behavior. Intention was not predictive of PA behavior. Conclusions. These results provide partial support for the utility of TPB in explaining PA behavior in a sample of overweight and obese adolescents. In particular, strong associations regarding attitude and PBC were evident across each subsample. These findings have implications for tailoring PA programs in this population.
Surplus suffering, mothers don’t know best
Authors: Clarke Juanne Nancarrow
Published: September 2012

This paper reports on a qualitative interview study of 16 mothers whose children had received a diagnosis with one, or more, mental health issue. It is based on retrospective accounts from mothers describing the early days of noticing that something seemed a bit problematic with their child. When they tried to discuss their concerns and asked for advice from family and friends their concerns were usually dismissed. When they took the child to the doctor, the doctor initially denied the mother’s own assessment of the child. Other professionals weighed in and often blamed the mother and denied her reality too. These findings are discussed in terms of the theories of surplus suffering, good and intensive mothering, mother blame and stigma. Implications for practice are considered.
Informing parents about positive newborn screen results
Authors: Salm Natalie , Yetter Elena , Tluczek Audrey
Published: September 2012

This descriptive study examined parents’ reactions to newborn screening (NBS) results and their recommendations for improving communication. Dimensional and content analyses were conducted on interviews with 203 parents of 106 infants having positive NBS results. Diagnostic results confirmed infants as having congenital hypothyroidism ( n = 37), cystic fibrosis ( n = 26), or being cystic fibrosis (CF)-carriers ( n = 43). Parents’ reactions ranged from ‘very scary’ to ‘not too concerned’. Most reported feeling shock, panic, and worry; some reported guilt. Parents in the CF and CF-carrier groups preferred face-to-face disclosure as the communication channel; whereas congenital hypothyroidism group parents supported telephone contacts. Parents recommended providers be well informed, honest, and calm; personalize disclosure, avoid jargon, listen carefully, encourage questions, recognize parental distress, offer realistic reassurance, pace amount and rate of information, assess parents’ understanding, and refer to specialists. We conclude that provider–patient communication approach and channel can exacerbate or alleviate parents’ negative reactions to positive NBS results.
A narrative literature review of the development of obesity in infancy and childhood
Authors: Robinson Sally , Yardy Katie , Carter Victoria
Published: September 2012

This narrative review explains the development of excess weight gain in babies and children. It takes a life course approach which includes genetics, pre-conception, pregnancy, infancy and childhood. The paper focuses on feeding behaviours, physical activity, parental influences and the wider social and environmental context. Risk factors which can cumulatively lead to excess childhood weight gain include: under- or overweight during pregnancy; the presence of diabetes during pregnancy; low or high birth weight; having obese parents; early weaning; prolonged formula feeding; rapid weight gain in the first year; disinhibited eating patterns and the consistent availability of energy dense food at home; feeding practices which are not responsive to the child’s cues; insufficient sleep among preschool children; sedentary parents; low parental education; living in poor socio-economic circumstances; absence, or perceived absence, of safe play areas; parents who lack time or confidence to authoritatively parent; environments where there is poor access to affordable lower energy dense foods; and parents who do not accept that excess weight is a health problem. Recommendations for health professionals are made.
Co-evolutions of planning and design: Risks and benefits of design perspectives in planning systems
Authors: Van Assche Kristof , Beunen Raoul , Duineveld Martijn , de Jong Harro
Published: September 2012

We develop an evolutionary perspective on spatial planning to investigate the potential contributions of design approaches to the coordination of spatial organization. After a re-articulation of the concepts of planning and design in this perspective, we distinguish six essential features of the planning/design dialectics in a community. These aspects ought to be understood when evaluating the risks and benefits of design perspectives in a planning system, and the potential for re-positioning design in planning. It is argued that relying on the rhetoric of any single actor or any single tradition of reflection on planning and design is deceptive, whereas the collective experience of learning and adaptation with actors and disciplines expands the scope of understanding and the pallet of possible adaptations.
All the Rage: Clarence Thomas, Paternal Authority, and Conservative Desire
Authors: Dudas Jeffrey R.
Published: September 2012

Clarence Thomas is, according to The Weekly Standard, the “leading conservative in America today.” More than just an iconic conservative, The National Review esteems Thomas as “an extraordinary man.” How are we to understand the ascent of a sitting United States Supreme Court Justice to the status of national hero in the American conservative imagination? And what does Clarence Thomas’s hero-status reveal about that conservative imagination?

I argue, first, that the canonization of Clarence Thomas by American conservative intellectuals speaks to, and revives, long-standing motifs in the American political tradition: rage at, and rejection of, maternal, feminine influence; an associated longing for stable, paternal authority and the self-disciplined, autonomous citizenship that it is believed to produce; and the promotion of law as the primary means by which to achieve social order and to repress the chaos conventionally associated with the maternal realm. Second, I argue that Thomas’s political vision and, especially, his jurisprudential philosophy – which emphasizes a Judge’s responsibility to abdicate individual judgment in the name of fidelity to the desires of the Founding Fathers – reveals an ironic ambiguity at the heart of the conservative political imagination. Indeed, fixation with the paternal authority of law leads modern conservatives, as it does Clarence Thomas, to impose a series of limitations on the individual autonomy that they claim is the fruit of overcoming feminine, maternal influence. The manifold obsessions voiced by Clarence Thomas and his conservative intellectual champions – obsessions with fathers, with mothers, and with law – thus point to a limited citizenship that is at odds with conservatism’s own dreams of mature autonomy.
The Use of Neuroimaging Studies and Neurological Consultation to Evaluate Dizzy Patients in the Emergency Department
Authors: Navi Babak B. , Kamel Hooman , Shah Maulik P. , Grossman Aaron W. , Wong Christine , Poisson Sharon N. , Whetstone William D. , Josephson S. Andrew , Johnston S. Claiborne , Kim Anthony S.
Published: September 2012

Background and Purpose:

Dizziness is a frequent reason for neuroimaging and neurological consultation, but little is known about the utility of either practice. We sought to characterize the patterns and yield of neuroimaging and neurological consultation for dizziness in the emergency department (ED).

Methods:

We retrospectively identified consecutive adults presenting to an academic ED from 2007 to 2009, with a primary complaint of dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance. Neurologists reviewed medical records to determine clinical characteristics, whether a neuroimaging study (head computed tomography [CT] or brain magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]) or neurology consultation was obtained in the ED, and to identify relevant findings on neuroimaging studies. Two neurologists assigned a final diagnosis for the cause of dizziness. Logistic regression was used to evaluate bivariate and multivariate predictors of neuroimaging and consultation.

Results:

Of 907 dizzy patients (mean age 59 years; 58% women), 321 (35%) had a neuroimaging study (28% CT, 11% MRI, and 4% both) and 180 (20%) had neurological consultation. Serious neurological disease was ultimately diagnosed in 13% of patients with neuroimaging and 21% of patients with neurological consultation, compared to 5% of the overall cohort. Headache and focal neurological deficits were associated with both neuroimaging and neurological consultation, while age ≥60 years and prior stroke predicted neuroimaging but not consultation, and positional symptoms predicted consultation but not neuroimaging.

Conclusion:

In a tertiary care ED, neuroimaging and neurological consultation were frequently utilized to evaluate dizzy patients, and their diagnostic yield was substantial.
A genome-wide association study identifies a gene network of ADAMTS genes in the predisposition to pediatric stroke
Authors: Arning Astrid , Hiersche Milan , Witten Anika , Kurlemann Gerhard , Kurnik Karin , Manner Daniela , Stoll Monika , Nowak-Göttl Ulrike
Published: September 2012

Pediatric stroke is a rare but highly penetrant disease with a strong genetic background. Although there are an increasing number of genome-wide association studies (GWASs) for stroke in adults, such studies for stroke of pediatric onset are lacking. Here we report the results of the first GWAS on pediatric stroke using a large cohort of 270 family-based trios. GWAS was performed using the Illumina 370 CNV single nucleotide polymorphisms array and analyzed using the transmission disequilibrium test as implemented in PLINK. An enrichment analysis was performed to identify additional true association signals among lower P value signals and searched for cumulatively associated genes within protein interaction data using dmGWAS. We observed clustering of association signals in 4 genes belonging to one family of metalloproteinases at high (ADAMTS12, P = 2.9 × 10−6; ADAMTS2, P = 8.0 × 10−6) and moderate (ADAMTS13, P = 9.3 × 10−4; ADAMTS17, P = 8.5 × 10−4) significance levels. Over-representation and gene-network analyses highlight the importance of the extracellular matrix in conjunction with members of the phosphoinositide and calcium signaling pathways in the susceptibility for pediatric stroke. Associated extracellular matrix components, such as ADAMTS proteins, in combination with misbalanced coagulation signals as unveiled by gene network analysis suggest a major role of postnatal vascular injury with subsequent thrombus formation as the leading cause of pediatric stroke.
Functional characterization of the matrix metalloproteinase-1 cigarette smoke-responsive region and association with the lung health study
Authors: Wallace Alison M , Mercer Becky A , He Jianqing , Foronjy Robert F , Accili Domenico , Sandford Andrew J , Paré Peter D , D’Armiento Jeanine M
Published: September 2012

Background

Prior studies have demonstrated that the distal 1.5 kb of the MMP-1 promoter is fundamental in directing the induction of the MMP-1 gene by cigarette smoke.

Methods

To characterize the genetic variants in the MMP-1 cigarette smoke-responsive element, deep re-sequencing of this element was performed on DNA samples from participants in the Lung Health Study. Furthermore, evidence of Sp1 binding to the MMP-1 promoter was assessed using chromatin immunoprecipitation assays and the influence of cigarette smoke exposure on this interaction was evaluated in cultured human small airway epithelial cells.

Results

Ten polymorphisms (four novel) were detected in the cigarette smoke-responsive element. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays to assess the protein-DNA interactions at Sp1 sites in the MMP-1 promoter showed increased binding to the Sp1 sites in the cigarette smoke-responsive element in small airway epithelial cells treated with cigarette smoke extract. In contrast, a Sp1 site outside of the element exhibited the opposite effect. None of the polymorphisms were more prevalent in the fast decliners versus the slow decliners (fast decliners = mean −4.14% decline in FEV1% predicted per year vs. decline in FEV1% predicted per year).

Conclusions

Sequencing analyses identified four novel polymorphisms within the cigarette smoke-responsive element of the MMP-1 promoter. This study identifies functional activity within the cigarette smoke-responsive element that is influenced by cigarette smoke and examines this region of the promoter within a small patient population.
Tools to kill: Genome of one of the most destructive plant pathogenic fungi Macrophomina phaseolina
Authors: Islam Md Shahidul , Haque Md Samiul , Islam Mohammad Moinul , Emdad Emdadul Mannan , Halim Abdul , Hossen Quazi Md Mosaddeque , Hossain Md Zakir , Ahmed Borhan , Rahim Sifatur , Rahman Md Sharifur , Alam Md Monjurul , Hou Shaobin , Wan Xuehua , Saito Jennifer A , Alam Maqsudul
Published: September 2012

Background

Macrophomina phaseolina is one of the most destructive necrotrophic fungal pathogens that infect more than 500 plant species throughout the world. It can grow rapidly in infected plants and subsequently produces a large amount of sclerotia that plugs the vessels, resulting in wilting of the plant.

Results

We sequenced and assembled ~49 Mb into 15 super-scaffolds covering 92.83% of the M. phaseolina genome. We predict 14,249 open reading frames (ORFs) of which 9,934 are validated by the transcriptome. This phytopathogen has an abundance of secreted oxidases, peroxidases, and hydrolytic enzymes for degrading cell wall polysaccharides and lignocelluloses to penetrate into the host tissue. To overcome the host plant defense response, M. phaseolina encodes a significant number of P450s, MFS type membrane transporters, glycosidases, transposases, and secondary metabolites in comparison to all sequenced ascomycete species. A strikingly distinct set of carbohydrate esterases (CE) are present in M. phaseolina, with the CE9 and CE10 families remarkably higher than any other fungi. The phenotypic microarray data indicates that M. phaseolina can adapt to a wide range of osmotic and pH environments. As a broad host range pathogen, M. phaseolina possesses a large number of pathogen-host interaction genes including those for adhesion, signal transduction, cell wall breakdown, purine biosynthesis, and potent mycotoxin patulin.

Conclusions

The M. phaseolina genome provides a framework of the infection process at the cytological and molecular level which uses a diverse arsenal of enzymatic and toxin tools to destroy the host plants. Further understanding of the M. phaseolina genome-based plant-pathogen interactions will be instrumental in designing rational strategies for disease control, essential to ensuring global agricultural crop production and security.
Electroacupuncture pretreatment induces tolerance against focal cerebral ischemia through activation of canonical Notch pathway
Authors: Zhao Yu , Chen Xiyao , Ma Lei , Zuo Zhiyi , Zhu Zhenghua , Zhu Xiaoling , Wang Qiang , He Ertao , Xiong Lize , Pei Jianming , Xu Lixian , Hou Lihong , Chen Shaoyang
Published: September 2012

Background

Electroacupuncture (EA) pretreatment can induce the tolerance against focal cerebral ischemia. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully understood. Emerging evidences suggest that canonical Notch signaling may be involved in ischemic brain injury. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that EA pretreatment-induced tolerance against focal cerebral ischemia is mediated by Notch signaling.

Results

EA pretreatment significantly enhanced Notch1, Notch4 and Jag1 gene transcriptions in the striatum, except Notch1 intracellular domain level, which could be increased evidently by ischemia. After ischemia and reperfusion, Hes1 mRNA and Notch1 intracellular domain level in ischemic striatum in EA pretreatment group were increased and reached the peak at 2 h and 24 h, respectively, which were both earlier than the peak achieved in control group. Intraventricular injection with the γ-secretase inhibitor MW167 attenuated the neuroprotective effect of EA pretreatment.

Conclusions

EA pretreatment induces the tolerance against focal cerebral ischemia through activation of canonical Notch pathway.
Inhibition by curcumin of multiple sites of the transforming growth factor-beta1 signalling pathway ameliorates the progression of liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride in rats
Authors: Yao Qun-yan , Xu Bei-li , Wang Ji-yao , Liu Hong-chun , Zhang Shun-cai , Tu Chuan-tao
Published: September 2012

Background

At present there is no effective and accepted therapy for hepatic fibrosis. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 signaling pathway contributes greatly to hepatic fibrosis. Reducing TGF-β synthesis or inhibiting components of its complex signaling pathway represent important therapeutic targets. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of curcumin on liver fibrosis and whether curcumin attenuates the TGF-β1 signaling pathway.

Methods

Sprague–Dawley rat was induced liver fibrosis by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) for six weeks together with or without curcumin, and hepatic histopathology and collagen content were employed to quantify liver necro-inflammation and fibrosis. Moreover, the mRNA and protein expression levels of TGF-β1, Smad2, phosphorylated Smad2, Smad3, Smad7 and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) were determined by quantitative real time-PCR, Western blot, or immunohistochemistry.

Results

Rats treated with curcumin improved liver necro-inflammation, and reduced liver fibrosis in association with decreased α-smooth muscle actin expression, and decreased collagen deposition. Furthermore, curcumin significantly attenuated expressions of TGFβ1, Smad2, phosphorylated Smad2, Smad3, and CTGF and induced expression of the Smad7.

Conclusions

Curcumin significantly attenuated the severity of CCl4-induced liver inflammation and fibrosis through inhibition of TGF-β1/Smad signalling pathway and CTGF expression. These data suggest that curcumin might be an effective antifibrotic drug in the prevention of liver disease progression.
In vitro evaluation of anti-pathogenic surface coating nanofluid, obtained by combining Fe3O4/C12 nanostructures and 2-((4-ethylphenoxy)methyl)-N-(substituted-phenylcarbamothioyl)-benzamides
Authors: Anghel Ion , Limban Carmen , Grumezescu Alexandru Mihai , Anghel Alina Georgiana , Bleotu Coralia , Chifiriuc Mariana Carmen
Published: September 2012

In this paper, we report the design of a new nanofluid for anti-pathogenic surface coating. For this purpose, new 2-((4-ethylphenoxy)methyl)-N-(substituted-phenylcarbamothioyl)-benzamides were synthesized and used as an adsorption shell for Fe3O4/C12 core/shell nanosized material. The functionalized specimens were tested by in vitro assays for their anti-biofilm properties and biocompatibility. The optimized catheter sections showed an improved resistance to Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 in vitro biofilm development, as demonstrated by the viable cell counts of biofilm-embedded bacterial cells and by scanning electron microscopy examination of the colonized surfaces. The nanofluid proved to be not cytotoxic and did not influence the eukaryotic cell cycle. These results could be of a great interest for the biomedical field, opening new directions for the design of film-coated surfaces with improved anti-biofilm properties.
A detecting and identifying method for two stationary human targets using single-channel ultra-wideband radar
Authors: Zhang Yang , Jiao Teng , Jing Xijing , Li Zhao , Li Sheng , Yu Xiao , Lv Hao , Zhang Zhu , Wang Jianqi
Published: September 2012

A novel technique for single-channel ultra-wideband (UWB) radar to detect and identify two stationary human subjects in different positions is proposed in this article. To detect two stationary human targets accurately and get their life parameters precisely, space–frequency analysis is performed upon the preprocessed data in horizontal dimension and then a non-linear threshold is calculated for automatic identification. Experiments are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed technique. In 61 data sets with two stationary human subjects, the accuracy of identification reaches 72%. The experimental results demonstrate the validity of our approach to detect and identify two stationary human subjects using single-channel UWB radar system. This technique may serve as a basis for further studies on a two-dimensional locator for multi-stationary human subjects via multi-channel UWB radar.
Antenatal corticosteroids trial in preterm births to increase neonatal survival in developing countries: study protocol
Authors: Althabe Fernando , Belizán José M , Mazzoni Agustina , Berrueta Mabel , Hemingway-Foday Jay , Koso-Thomas Marion , McClure Elizabeth , Chomba Elwyn , Garces Ana , Goudar Shivaprasad , Kodkany Bhalchandra , Saleem Sarah , Pasha Omrana , Patel Archana , Esamai Fabian , Carlo Waldemar A , Krebs Nancy F , Derman Richard J , Goldenberg Robert L , Hibberd Patricia , Liechty Edward A , Wright Linda L , Bergel Eduardo F , Jobe Alan H , Buekens Pierre
Published: September 2012

Background

Preterm birth is a major cause of neonatal mortality, responsible for 28% of neonatal deaths overall. The administration of antenatal corticosteroids to women at high risk of preterm birth is a powerful perinatal intervention to reduce neonatal mortality in resource rich environments. The effect of antenatal steroids to reduce mortality and morbidity among preterm infants in hospital settings in developed countries with high utilization is well established, yet they are not routinely used in developing countries. The impact of increasing antenatal steroid use in hospital or community settings with low utilization rates and high infant mortality among premature infants due to lack of specialized services has not been well researched. There is currently no clear evidence about the safety of antenatal corticosteroid use for community-level births.

Methods

We hypothesize that a multi country, two-arm, parallel cluster randomized controlled trial to evaluate whether a multifaceted intervention to increase the use of antenatal corticosteroids, including components to improve the identification of pregnancies at high risk of preterm birth and providing and facilitating the appropriate use of steroids, will reduce neonatal mortality at 28 days of life in preterm newborns, compared with the standard delivery of care in selected populations of six countries. 102 clusters in Argentina, Guatemala, Kenya, India, Pakistan, and Zambia will be randomized, and around 60,000 women and newborns will be enrolled. Kits containing vials of dexamethasone, syringes, gloves, and instructions for administration will be distributed. Improving the identification of women at high risk of preterm birth will be done by (1) diffusing recommendations for antenatal corticosteroids use to health providers, (2) training health providers on identification of women at high risk of preterm birth, (3) providing reminders to health providers on the use of the kits, and (4) using a color-coded tape to measure uterine height to estimate gestational age in women with unknown gestational age. In both intervention and control clusters, health providers will be trained in essential newborn care for low birth weight babies. The primary outcome is neonatal mortality at 28 days of life in preterm infants.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov. Identifier: NCT01084096
Assisted reproductive techniques and the risk of anorectal malformations: a German case-control study
Authors: Zwink Nadine , Jenetzky Ekkehart , Schmiedeke Eberhard , Schmidt Dominik , Märzheuser Stefanie , Grasshoff-Derr Sabine , Holland-Cunz Stefan , Weih Sandra , Hosie Stuart , Reifferscheid Peter , Ameis Helen , Kujath Christina , Rißmann Anke , Obermayr Florian , Schwarzer Nicole , Bartels Enrika , Reutter Heiko , Brenner Hermann ,   CURE-Net Consortium
Published: September 2012

Background

The use of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) for treatment of infertility is increasing rapidly worldwide. However, various health effects have been reported including a higher risk of congenital malformations. Therefore, we assessed the risk of anorectal malformations (ARM) after in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Methods

Data of the German Network for Congenital Uro-REctal malformations (CURE-Net) were compared to nationwide data of the German IVF register and the Federal Statistical Office (DESTATIS). Odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) were determined to quantify associations using multivariable logistic regression accounting for potential confounding or interaction by plurality of births.

Results

In total, 295 ARM patients born between 1997 and 2011 in Germany, who were recruited through participating pediatric surgeries from all over Germany and the German self-help organisation SoMA, were included. Controls were all German live-births (n = 10,069,986) born between 1997 and 2010. Overall, 30 cases (10%) and 129,982 controls (1%) were born after IVF or ICSI, which translates to an odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 8.7 (5.9–12.6) between ART and ARM in bivariate analyses. Separate analyses showed a significantly increased risk for ARM after IVF (OR, 10.9; 95% CI, 6.2–19.0; P < 0.0001) as well as after ICSI (OR, 7.5; 95% CI, 4.6–12.2; P < 0.0001). Furthermore, separate analyses of patients with isolated ARM, ARM with associated anomalies and those with a VATER/VACTERL association showed strong associations with ART (ORs 4.9, 11.9 and 7.9, respectively). After stratification for plurality of birth, the corresponding odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 7.7 (4.6–12.7) for singletons and 4.9 (2.4–10.1) for multiple births.

Conclusions

There is a strongly increased risk for ARM among children born after ART. Elevations of risk were seen after both IVF and ICSI. Further, separate analyses of patients with isolated ARM, ARM with associated anomalies and those with a VATER/VACTERL association showed increased risks in each group. An increased risk of ARM was also seen among both singletons and multiple births.