bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vested Interests in Addiction Research and Policy. Alliance between tobacco and alcohol industries to shape public policy
Authors: Jiang Nan , Ling Pamela
Published: April 2013

Aims

The tobacco and alcohol industries share common policy goals when facing regulation, opposing policies such as tax increases and advertising restrictions. The collaboration between these two industries in the tobacco policy arena is unknown. This study explored if tobacco and alcohol companies built alliances to influence tobacco legislation and, if so, how those alliances worked.

Methods

Analysis of previously secret tobacco industry documents.

Findings

In the early 1980s, tobacco companies started efforts to build coalitions with alcohol and other industries to oppose cigarette excise taxes, clean indoor air policies and tobacco advertising and promotion constraints. Alcohol companies were often identified as a key partner and source of financial support for the coalitions. These coalitions had variable success interfering with tobacco control policy‐making.

Conclusions

The combined resources of tobacco and alcohol companies may have affected tobacco control legislation. These alliances helped to create the perception that there is a broader base of opposition to tobacco control. Advocates should be aware of the covert alliances between tobacco, alcohol and other industries and expose them to correct this misperception.
Meta‐analysis: pegylated interferon α‐2a achieves higher early virological responses than α‐2b in chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Romero‐Gómez M. , Planas R. , Ampuero J. , Solà R. , García‐Samaniego J. , Diago M. , Crespo J. , Calleja J. L. , Turnes J.
Published: April 2013

Background

A Cochrane meta‐analysis established that pegylated interferon α‐2a is more effective than peginterferon α‐2b in terms of sustained virological response (SVR) in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. Rapid virological response (RVR) and early virological response (EVR) are crucial to reach SVR and to make clinical decisions.

Aim

To compare RVR and EVR rates of peginterferon α‐2a vs. peginterferon α‐2b through a meta‐analysis of previously published randomised control trials (RCT).

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE and LILACS databases were systematically searched up to September 2011. Seven RCT that reported complete early virological response (cEVR) were selected. A meta‐analysis focusing on RVR and cEVR outcomes was conducted and Relative Efficacy (RE) was calculated.

Results

Meta‐analysis of cEVR included seven trials (n = 4359), and yielded an estimated effect in favour of peginterferon α‐2a: Crude Efficacy (CEf) was 53.3% vs. 43.8%, RE = 1.118 (CI 95% = 1.039–1.203; P = 0.0028), heterogeneity Q = 8.959; I2 = 33.0% (P = 0.1759). A sub‐analysis of three studies with 3409 genotype‐1 patients yielded CEf: 49.4% vs. 40.2%, RE = 1.151 (CI 95% = 0.968–1.369; P = 0.1124), Q = 9.802; I2 = 79.6% (P = 0.0074). Meta‐analysis of RVR included five trials (n = 3833) with an estimated effect in favour of peginterferon α‐2a: CEf = 25.0% vs. 16.8%, RE = 1.151 (CI 95%:1.042–1.272; P = 0.0056), Q = 1.461; I2 = 0.0% (P = 0.8335). Analysis of four studies reporting RVR including 3499 patients with genotypes 1 and 4 resulted in CEf: 18.3% vs. 12.7% RE = 1.206 (CI 95% = 1.059–1.374; P = 0.0048), Q = 1.116; I2 = 0.0% (P = 0.7733).

Conclusions

Peginterferon α‐2a may be associated with a higher cEVR and RVR than peginterferon α‐2b. These findings could help to achieve higher SVR rates and support clinical decision‐making in the present scenario of triple combination therapy.
Testing the Proposed Linkage between Organizational Citizenship Behaviours and an Innovative Organizational Climate
Authors: Turnipseed Patricia H. , Turnipseed David L.
Published: April 2013

This study investigates the link between an innovative organizational climate and organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB). OCB is discretionary individual behaviour that is not directly rewarded and that promotes organizational functioning. The genesis of OCB is Barnard's innovative and spontaneous behaviours instrumental for effective organizational functioning, yet innovation has not been part of the OCB construct development. Using employees of a financial services firm in the Midwest, we examine the relationship between an organizational climate conducive to innovation and OCB using the Climate for Innovation Questionnaire (CIQ) and Van Dyne et al.'s OCB scale, which assesses the dimensions of organizational Obedience, Loyalty and Participation. The CIQ was reduced to three dimensions (context, ideas and risk) via factor analysis. Our results indicate that OCB is not linked to an Innovative Organizational Context. The Participation dimension of citizenship behaviour was positively linked to Innovative Ideas. Loyalty OCB was negatively linked to Risk, and Obedience OCB was negatively linked to Ideas. Results suggest the need to re‐examine the OCB construct. Pragmatic implications include examining the organizational characteristics when innovation is desired. Additionally, managers should be cautious with interventions designed to increase OCB, as the available evidence indicates a generally negative OCB–innovative climate relationship.
Parental education and physical activity in pre‐school children
Authors: Vale S. , Ricardo N. , Soares‐Miranda L. , Santos R. , Moreira C. , Mota J.
Published: April 2013

Background

The purpose of this study was to objectively assess pre‐school children's total physical activity (TPA) patterns and compliance with guidelines and to examine differences relative to parental education.

Methods

The sample consisted on 509 healthy pre‐school children, aged 3–6 years recruited from kindergartens located in the metropolitan area of Porto, Portugal. The PA was assessed for 7 consecutive days by accelerometry. For TPA, we followed the guidelines of the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) (children who spent at least >120 min per day in active play). For TPA, we calculated the proportion of children who spent at least >120 min per day in active play and moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA), we calculated the proportion of children who spent at least >60 min per day in active play. Parental education was analysed according to the Portuguese education system.

Results

Children with parents in the highest education level were less active than children from low and middle education level (P ≤ 0.001) in all patterns of PA (week and weekend). Regarding TPA during the week we found that the majority of children from low and middle parental education meet the NASPE guidelines. On the other hand, more than half the children from high parental education did not meet these recommendations (P ≤ 0.001) and MVPA recommendations (P ≤ 0.05). In both recommendations, children from low parental education were twice more likely to meet the recommendations compared with children belonging to high parental education.

Conclusion

Parent education was negatively associated with children's daily physical activity patterns and compliance with guidelines.
Accuracy of trabecular bone microstructural measurement at planned dental implant sites using cone‐beam CT datasets
Authors: Ibrahim Norliza , Parsa Azin , Hassan Bassam , van der Stelt Paul , Aartman Irene H.A. , Wismeijer Daniel
Published: April 2013

Objective

Cone‐beam CT (CBCT) images are infrequently utilized for trabecular bone microstructural measurement due to the system's limited resolution. The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of CBCT for measuring trabecular bone microstructure in comparison with micro CT (μCT).

Materials and methods

Twenty‐four human mandibular cadavers were scanned using a CBCT system (80 μm) and a μCT system (35 μm). Three bone microstructural parameters trabecular number (Tb.N), thickness (Tb.Th) and separation (Tb.Sp) were assessed using CTAn imaging software.

Results

Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) showed a high intra‐observer reliability (≥ 0.996) in all parameters for both systems. The Pearson correlation coefficients between the measurements of the two systems were for Tb.Th 0.82, for Tb.Sp 0.94 and for Tb.N 0.85 (all P's<0.001). The Bland and Altman plots showed strongest agreement in Tb.N (‐0.37 μm) followed by Tb.Th (1.6μm) and Tb.Sp (8.8μm).

Conclusions

Cone‐beam CT datasets can be used to evaluate trabecular bone microstructure at dental implant sites. The accuracy for measuring Tb.N was the best followed by Tb.Th and Tb.Sp.
Correlations between echocardiographic aortic elastic properties and left ventricular rotation and twist – Insights from the three‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiographic MAGYAR‐Healthy Study
Authors: Nemes Attila , Kalapos Anita , Domsik Péter , Lengyel Csaba , Orosz Andrea , Forster Tamás
Published: April 2013

Introduction

There is an interaction between the left ventricle (LV) and the vascular system, which plays a crucial role in determining cardiac output. LV twist could be evaluated by three‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography (3DSTE) as the net difference of counterclockwise apical and clockwise basal LV rotations during systole. Aortic elasticity parameters could be measured during a routine transthoracic echocardiographic examination. The current study was designed to evaluate correlations between echocardiographic aortic elastic properties and LV rotational mechanics in healthy subjects.

Methods

The present study comprised 26 healthy volunteers (mean age: 34·5 ± 9·8 years, 13 men). The following aortic elastic properties were measured from aortic data and forearm blood pressure values: aortic strain, distensibility and stiffness index (ASI). 3DSTE was used to measure basal and apical LV rotations and LV twist.

Results

During 3DSTE, basal LV rotation proved to be −2·42 ± 1·43 degree, while apical LV rotation was 8·56 ± 1·43 degree, therefore LV twist was 11·01 ± 5·19 degree. Aortic strain (0·131 ± 0·094), distensibility (3·61 ± 2·54 cm² dynes−1 10−6) and ASI (4·08 ± 0·79) were also calculated. Apical LV rotation correlated with aortic distensibility (r = −0·36, P<0·05) and ASI (r = 0·41, P<0·05). LV twist showed similar correlation with ASI (r = 0·42, P<0·05).

Discussion

Correlations exist between echocardiographic aortic elastic properties and 3DSTE‐derived LV rotation and twist in healthy subjects.
The susceptibility of the knee extensors to eccentric exercise‐induced muscle damage is not affected by leg dominance but by exercise order
Authors: Hody S. , Rogister B. , Leprince P. , Laglaine T. , Croisier J. ‐L.
Published: April 2013

The aims of this study were first to compare the response of dominant and non‐dominant legs to eccentric exercise and second, to examine whether there is an effect of exercise order on the magnitude of symptoms associated with intense eccentric protocols. Eighteen young men performed three sets of 30 maximal eccentric isokinetic (60° s−1) contractions of the knee extensors (range of motion, ROM: 0°–100°, 0 = full extension) using either dominant or non‐dominant leg. They repeated a similar eccentric bout using the contralateral leg 6 weeks later. The sequence of leg's use was allocated to create equally balanced groups. Four indirect markers of muscle damage including subjective pain intensity, maximal isometric strength, muscle stiffness and plasma creatine kinase (CK) activity were measured before and 24 h after exercise. All markers changed significantly following the eccentric bout performed either by dominant or non‐dominant legs, but no significant difference was observed between legs. Interestingly, the comparison between the first and second eccentric bouts revealed that muscle soreness (−42%, P<0·001), CK activity (−62%, P<0·05) and strength loss (−54%, P<0·01) were significantly lower after the second bout. This study suggests that leg dominance does not influence the magnitude of exercise‐induced muscle damage and supports for the first time the existence of a contralateral protection against exercise‐induced muscle damage in the lower limbs.
Neutrophilic panniculitis developing after treatment of metastatic melanoma with vemurafenib
Authors: Kim Gene H. , Levy Alan , Compoginis Goli
Published: April 2013

Vemurafenib is an inhibitor of BRAF and is used to treat patients with metastatic melanoma who carry a V600E BRAF mutation. Recently, four patients have been described in the literature who developed a neutrophilic panniculitis following treatment with a BRAF inhibitor. We present an additional case and review the clinical findings of the cases reported to date.
Peroral endoscopic myotomy for esophageal achalasia: Clinical impact of 28 cases
Authors: Minami Hitomi , Isomoto Hajime , Yamaguchi Naoyuki , Matsushima Kayoko , Akazawa Yuko , Ohnita Ken , Takeshima Fuminao , Inoue Haruhiro , Nakao Kazuhiko
Published: April 2013

Background

The aim of the present study was to clarify the efficacy of peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for esophageal achalasia.

Patients and Methods

Twenty‐eight esophageal achalasia patients who underwent POEM in our institution between August 2010 and October 2012 were enrolled. Under general anesthesia with tracheal intubation, initial incision was made on the anterior wall of the esophagus after submucosal injection. Submucosal tunnel was created and extended below the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) onto the gastric cardia. Subsequently, myotomy was done using triangle tip knife. After confirmation of smooth passage of scope through the esophagogastric junction, the entry was closed. Esophagogram and manometry study was done before and after the procedure. Also, subjective symptom score and Eckardt score were assessed before and 3 months after POEM.

Results

POEM was successfully done in all cases without any severe complications such as perforation and mediastinitis.Mean procedure time was 99.1 min (range 61–160) and mean myotomy length was 14.4 cm (range 10–18). Significant improvement was achieved in both esophagogram and endoscopic findings. Mean LES pressure was 71.2 mmHg (35.8–119.0) and 21.0 mmHg (6.7–41.0) before and after the procedure (P < 0.05), respectively. Mean Eckardt score was 6.7 (3–12, median 7) and 0.7 (0–3, median 1) before and 3 months after POEM, respectively (P < 0.05). Symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease that was easily controlled by the usual dose of proton pump inhibitor was seen in six cases (21.4%) after the procedure.

Conclusion

POEM could be a curative standard treatment of choice for esophageal achalasia.
Temporal patterns and mechanisms of epilepsy surgery failure
Authors: Najm Imad , Jehi Lara , Palmini Andre , Gonzalez‐Martinez Jorge , Paglioli Eliseu , Bingaman William
Published: April 2013

Epilepsy surgery is an accepted treatment option in patients with medically refractory focal epilepsy. Despite various advances in recording and localization noninvasive and invasive techniques (including electroencephalography (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), magnetoencephalography (MEG), subdural grids, depth electrodes, and so on), the seizure outcome following surgical resection remains suboptimal in a significant number of patients. The availability of long‐term outcome data on an increasing number of patients suggests two major temporal patterns of seizure recurrence (early vs. late) that implicate the following two different mechanisms for seizure recurrence: (1) a failure to either define/resect the epileptogenic zone, and (2) the nonstatic nature of epilepsy as a disease through the persistence of proepileptic cortical pathology. We describe the temporal patterns of epilepsy surgery failures and discuss their potential clinical, histopathologic, genetic, and molecular mechanisms. In addition, we review predictors of successful surgical interventions and analyze the natural history of epilepsy following surgical intervention. We hypothesize that the acute/early postoperative failures are due to errors in localizing and/or resecting the epileptic focus, whereas late recurrences are likely due to development/maturation of a new and active epileptic focus (de novo epileptogenesis).
Effect of switching hepatic enzyme‐inducer antiepileptic drug to levetiracetam on bone mineral density, 25 hydroxyvitamin D, and parathyroid hormone in young adult patients with epilepsy
Authors: Phabphal Kanitpong , Geater Alan , Limapichat Kitti , Sathirapanya Pornchai , Setthawatcharawanich Suwanna , Leelawattana Rattana
Published: April 2013

We sought to determine the effect of changing phenytoin therapy on bone mineral density (BMD) and 25‐hydroxyvitamin D in patients with epilepsy. Of the 90 patients, 54 patients had switched to levetiracetam, 19 patients had stopped, and 17 patients continued taking phenytoin. We proposed a 2‐year period to examine 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone, and BMD. The patients who switched or stopped phenytoin showed a significant increase in BMD of the lumbar spine and left femur, and in 25‐hydroxyvitamin D. In contrast, those who continued phenytoin had a significant decrease in BMD at both sites and in 25‐hydroxyvitamin D. Patients who were taken off phenytoin and those switching to levetiracetam did not show a significant difference in BMD, 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid, or calcium at follow‐up. Compared with those who continued phenytoin, the BMD was significantly higher in patients switching to levetiracetam and those who stopped using phenytoin. Switching medications may be necessary in some cases to avoid low BMD.
Effect of pimobendan in addition to standard therapy for heart failure on prevention of readmission in elderly patients with severe chronic heart failure
Authors: Kawano Hiroaki , Arakawa Shuji , Satoh Osami , Matsumoto Yuji , Hayano Motonobu , Nakatomi Daisuke , Yamasa Toshihiko , Maemura Koji
Published: April 2013

Aim

We evaluated the effect of pimobendan, a positive inotropic agent, in elderly patients with frequent readmission as a result of heart failure despite conventional therapy.

Methods

Pimobendan was given to five male patients with severe chronic heart failure (New York Heart Association class III–IV) (age range 69–89 years; mean 78 ± 8 years; ischemic cardiomyopathy in three cases, dilated cardiomyopathy in two cases) who required repeated admission for heart failure despite conventional therapy with angiotensin inhibitors, beta‐blockers, diuretics and anti‐arrhythmic agents. After the addition of pimobendan at a dose of 1.25–3.75 mg/day, we evaluated serum levels of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), septal e′ and left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter (LVDD) by echocardiography, as well as readmission rates for more than 2 years.

Results

The serum level of BNP significantly decreased after treatment with pimobendan, although its level returned to pretreatment levels after 2 years. LVEF significantly improved after the treatment, with the improvement continuing beyond the 2 years, although LVDD did not change after treatment. Septal e′ significantly improved after the treatment, although its level returned to pretreatment levels at 2 years after the treatment. Readmission rates significantly decreased for 2 years after the treatment, although one patient required cardiac resynchronization therapy for severe heart failure, and another patient required cardiac pacemaker implantation for sick sinus syndrome 2 years after adding pimobendan.

Conclusions

Pimobendan in conjunction with conventional therapy for heart failure decreases the readmission rate in elderly patients with severe heart failure for at least 2 years. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 109–114.
Effects of cutting height on shoot regrowth and forage yield of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) in a short‐term cultivation system
Authors: Shen Yixin , Jiang Huixin , Zhai Guiyu , Cai Qingsheng
Published: April 2013

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) has been cultivated increasingly widely in the arable area of the middle‐eastern regions of China as a short‐term (1 or 2 years) component of a forage–grain rotation system, but little is known about the harvesting technique for this legume in the short‐term rotation. This study investigated the effects of cutting height (0‐, 5‐ and 10‐cm stubble height above the soil surface) on shoot regrowth and forage yield of alfalfa in the second‐year growing season at two sites in Shandong Province, China. Forage yield at the first harvest was higher under lower cutting height (0 > 5 > 10 cm) at both sites due to greater length and weight of individual shoots harvested. At the site where plants were fertilized and irrigated after the first harvest, lower cutting height increased the number of buds during the early regrowth period and the number of shoots per plant at the second harvest, though it decreased the length and weight of individual shoots harvested. At the site without fertilizer and irrigation, lower cutting height delayed the sprouting of buds after defoliation, and decreased the length of shoots harvested at the second cut. Forage yield at the second harvest was ranked 0 ≈ 5 > 10 cm under fertilizer and irrigation, and 0 ≈ 5 ≈ 10 cm under no fertilizer and irrigation. The path analysis showed that forage yield was affected primarily by the weight of individual shoots at the first cut and by shoot number per plant in the aftermath. Harvesting close to the ground is considered to be a management option to increase alfalfa yield in a short‐term forage production system subjected to irrigation and fertilizer.
Effect of Fluoroquinolone Resistance on 14‐day Levofloxacin Triple and Triple Plus Bismuth Quadruple Therapy
Authors: Liao Jingxian , Zheng Qing , Liang Xiao , Zhang Wei , Sun Qinjuan , Liu Wenzhong , Xiao Shudong , Graham David Y. , Lu Hong
Published: April 2013

Objective

Levofloxacin has been proposed to replace clarithromycin for Helicobacter pylori treatment. Seven‐ and 10‐day fluoroquinolone triple therapies have generally failed to achieve cure rates of ≥90%, whereas 14‐day therapy has achieved 95% success. The aim was to assess the efficacy and effect of fluoroquinolone resistance on 14‐day levofloxacin‐containing triple therapy with or without the addition of bismuth.

Design

Helicobacter pylori‐positive patients with functional dyspepsia or healed peptic ulcers were randomized to receive lansoprazole 30 mg b.i.d., amoxicillin 1000 mg b.i.d., and levofloxacin 500 mg daily with (B‐LAL) or without (LAL) bismuth potassium citrate 220 mg b.i.d. for 14 days. Eradication was assessed by 13C‐urea breath testing 4 weeks after completing treatment. Antimicrobial susceptibility was by the agar dilution method. Success was defined as PP success ≥90%.

Results

A total of 152 of 161 patients (81 LAL and 80 B‐LAL) enrolled completed treatment. The PP rates were 94.6% (70/74; 95% CI, 86.9–97.9%) with B‐LAL and 85.9% (95% CI, 76.5–91.9%) with LAL (p = .07); the ITT eradication rates were 87.5% (95% CI, 78.5–93.1%) with B‐LAL and 82.7% (95% CI, 73–89.4%) with LAL (p = .39). Levofloxacin resistance was present in 30.3%. Treatment success was excellent with susceptible strains (97.5%) versus resistant strains (70.6%) for B‐LAL and 97.3% versus 37.5% for LAL, respectively.

Conclusions

Fourteen‐day fluoroquinolone therapy was highly effective when fluoroquinolone resistance rates are <12%. The addition of bismuth maintained effectiveness with fluoroquinolone resistance as high as 25%.
Increasing seasonal influenza vaccination uptake using community pharmacies: experience from the Isle of Wight, England
Authors: Warner John Gary , Portlock Jane , Smith Jenifer , Rutter Paul
Published: April 2013

Objective

Influenza vaccination rates achieved by general medical practice on the Isle of Wight, England, have been consistently lower than regional and national averages despite practices pursuing an active programme of patient engagement. The objective of this work was to determine whether inclusion of community pharmacies in an influenza vaccination programme improves vaccination rates and is acceptable to patients.

Methods

The Isle of Wight Primary Care Trust commissioned a community pharmacy seasonal influenza vaccination service to augment that offered by general medical practice. Vaccination rates were monitored as well as determining patient perception of a pharmacy-based service by self-administered survey.

Key findings

Eighteen community pharmacies vaccinated 2837 patients and accounted for 9.7% of all patients vaccinated on the island. The pharmacy service contributed to improved patient vaccination rates in both the over- and under-65 age groups and increased the number of patients receiving a vaccination for the first time. Pharmacies vaccinated proportionately more carers and frontline healthcare workers than medical practices. Patient satisfaction with the pharmacy-based service was high, with access seen as a major advantage over general medical practice. The pharmacy-based service also vaccinated patients that ordinarily would not have accessed medical services.

Conclusions

Involvement of community pharmacies in the seasonal influenza vaccination programme can help increase vaccination rates and is associated with high levels of patient acceptability.
Isolated granulomatous angiitis with eosinophilia in the central nervous system
Authors: Shirai Shinichi , Yabe Ichiro , Sakushima Ken , Hiromi Kanno , Uwatoko Hisashi , Hirotani Makoto , Kano Takahiro , Kamoshima Yuuta , Tanaka Shinya , Sasaki Hidenao
Published: April 2013

A 73‐year‐old man was admitted for epileptic seizures. Diffuse white matter lesions were observed in the bilateral occipital lobes, and the left occipital lobe biopsy showed eosinophils and giant cells in the walls of medium to small blood vessels, fibrinoid necrosis, occluded blood vessels, and glia degeneration. Allergic granulomatous angiitis was pathologically diagnosed. No eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis findings were observed in other organs, and isolated granulomatous angiitis with eosinophilia in the central nervous system was clinically diagnosed. Prednisolone combined with immunosuppressant therapies improved his symptoms markedly.
Origin of Colossal Dielectric Behavior In Double Perovskite Ba2CoNbO6
Authors: Wang Guojing , Wang Chunchang , Huang Shouguo , Lei Changmei , Sun Xiaohong , Li Teng , Liu Lina
Published: April 2013

Ba2CoNbO6 ceramic samples were synthesized by solid‐state reaction technique. X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy reveals the coexistence of mixed‐valent structure of Co2+/Co3+ in the sample. Dielectric measurements reveal that the sample shows colossal dielectric behavior. This behavior is contributed by two thermally activated dielectric relaxations: the low‐temperature relaxation is a polaron relaxation resulting from the hopping motions of self‐trapped holes; the high‐temperature relaxation is a Maxwell–Wagner relaxation caused by the grain‐boundary response. Our results indicate a multirelaxation mechanism, i.e., the coupling of the polaronic relaxation and the Maxwell–Wagner relaxations might be a common origin of the colossal dielectric behavior found in different materials.
Autophagy alleviates neurodegeneration caused by mild impairment of oxidative metabolism
Authors: Meng Ya , Yong Yue , Yang Guang , Ding Hanqing , Fan Zhiqin , Tang Yifen , Luo Jia , Ke Zun‐Ji
Published: April 2013

Thiamine deficiency (TD) causes mild impairment of oxidative metabolism and region‐selective neuronal loss in the brain, which may be mediated by neuronal oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and neuroinflammation. TD‐induced brain damage is used to model neurodegenerative disorders, and the mechanism for the neuronal death is still unclear. We hypothesized that autophagy might be activated in the TD brain and play a protective role in TD‐induced neuronal death. Our results demonstrated that TD induced the accumulation of autophagosomes in thalamic neurons measured by transmission electron microscopy, and the up‐regulation of autophagic markers LC3‐II, Atg5, and Beclin1 as measured with western blotting. TD also increased the expression of autophagic markers and induced LC3 puncta in SH‐SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. TD‐induced expression of autophagic markers was reversed once thiamine was re‐administered. Both inhibition of autophagy by wortmannin and Beclin1 siRNA potentiated TD‐induced death of SH‐SY5Y cells. In contrast, activation of autophagy by rapamycin alleviated cell death induced by TD. Intraperitoneal injection of rapamycin stimulated neuronal autophagy and attenuated TD‐induced neuronal death and microglia activation in the submedial thalamus nucleus (SmTN). TD inhibited the phosphorylation of p70S6 kinase, suggesting mTOR/p70S6 kinase pathway was involved in the TD‐induced autophagy. These results suggest that autophagy is neuroprotective in response to TD‐induced neuronal death in the central nervous system. This opens a potential therapeutic avenue for neurodegenerative diseases caused by mild impairment of oxidative metabolism.

image

Autophagy is neuroprotective in response to thiamine deficiency (TD)‐induced neuronal death. TD caused neuronal damage and induced the formation of autophagosome, and increased the expression of autophagy‐related proteins. Autophagy sequestered damaged and dysfunctional organelles/protein, and transported them to lysosomes for degradation/recycling. This process provided nutrients for injured neurons. Wortmannin and knockdown of Beclin1 inhibited autophagy, and exacerbated TD‐induced cell death, while activation of autophagy by rapamycin offered protection against TD neurotoxicity.
Quantitative real‐time PCR combined with propidium monoazide for the selective quantification of viable periodontal pathogens in an in vitro subgingival biofilm model
Authors: Sánchez M. C. , Marín M. J. , Figuero E. , Llama‐Palacios A. , León R. , Blanc V. , Herrera D. , Sanz M.
Published: April 2013

Background and Objectives

Differentiation of live and dead cells is an important challenge when using molecular diagnosis for microbial identification. This is particularly relevant when bacteria have been exposed to antimicrobial agents. The objective of this study was to test a method using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) combined with propidium monoazide (PMA), developed for the selective quantification of viable P. gingivalis, A. actinomycetemcomitans, F. nucleatum and total bacteria in an in vitro biofilm model after antimicrobial treatment.

Material and Methods

PMA‐qPCR method was tested in an in vitro biofilm model, using isopropyl alcohol as the antimicrobial agent. Matured biofilms were exposed for 1, 5, 10 and 30 min to isopropyl alcohol by immersion. Biofilms were disrupted and PMA added (final concentration of 100 μm). After DNA isolation, qPCR was carried out using specific primers and probes for the target bacteria. The differentiation of live and dead cells was tested by analysis of variance.

Results

When PMA was used in the presence of viable target bacterial cells, no statistically significant inhibition of qPCR amplification was detected (p > 0.05 in all cases). Conversely, after immersion in isopropyl alcohol of the biofilm, PMA resulted in a significant total reduction of qPCR amplification of about 4 log10. P. gingivalis showed a vitality reduction in the biofilm of 3 log10, while A. actinomycetemcomitans and F. nucleatum showed a 2 log10 reduction.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate the efficiency of PMA for differentiating viable and dead P. gingivalis, A. actinomycetemcomitans and F. nucleatum cells, as well as total bacteria, in an in vitro biofilm model, after being exposed to an antimicrobial agent. Hence, this PMA‐qPCR method may be useful for studying the effect of antimicrobial agents aimed at oral biofilms.
Identification of QTLs for growth period traits in soybean using association analysis and linkage mapping
Authors: Zuo Qiaomei , Hou Jinfeng , Zhou Bin , Wen Zixiang , Zhang Shuyun , Gai Junyi , Xing Han
Published: April 2013

The growth period traits of soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) are quantitatively inherited and crucial for its adaptation to different environments. Association analysis and linkage mapping were used to identify the quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for days to flowering (DF), days from flowering to maturity (DFM) and days to maturity (DM). Considering the effect of sowing date, the phenotypes were evaluated in three or four sowing‐date‐experiments in each year. A total of 96 associations, involving 19 SSRs corresponding to DF, DFM and/or DM, were identified by association mapping. Six, eight and two QTLs were observed relating to DF, DFM and DM by linkage mapping, respectively, and some QTLs were shared by DF, DFM and DM. Four SSRs (Satt150, Satt489, Satt172 and Sat_312) were found to be related to the growth period traits using the two mapping methods. In summary, association analysis and linkage mapping can complement and verify results from both methods to identify QTLs in soybean, and these findings may be useful in facilitating the selection of growth period–related traits via marker‐assisted selection.
Psychometric properties of the Japanese version of the Social Phobia Inventory
Authors: Nagata Toshihiko , Nakajima Takenori , Teo Alan R. , Yamada Hisashi , Yoshimura Chiho
Published: April 2013

Aim

The aim of the current study was to study the psychometric properties of the Japanese version of the Social Phobia Inventory (SPIN‐J) among Japanese subjects with social anxiety disorder (SAD).

Method

The sample consisted of 86 subjects with SAD and 86 controls. Diagnosis was based on a modified version of the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM‐IV. In addition to the SPIN‐J, clinician‐administered and self‐rating scales, including the Japanese versions of the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale, the Social Phobia Scale, and the Social Interaction Anxiety Scale, were used.

Results

The SPIN‐J showed adequate internal consistency (0.82–0.96) for the total and subscales. Correlations between the SPIN‐J and the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale, the Social Phobia Scale, and the Social Interaction Anxiety Scale ranged from 0.83 to 0.89 and indicated adequate concurrent validity. A cut‐off point of 22 between subjects with SAD and controls showed a sensitivity of 96.5% and specificity of 87.2%, indicating robust discriminant validity.

Conclusion

The SPIN‐J showed adequate reliability and validity for use as a screening tool for social anxiety disorder in Japanese clinical settings.
Evaluating UVA Aerosol Optical Depth using a Smartphone Camera
Authors: Igoe Damien P. , Parisi Alfio V. , Carter Brad
Published: April 2013

This research evaluates a smartphone complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor's ability to detect and quantify incident solar UVA radiation and subsequently, aerosol optical depth at 340 and 380 nm. Earlier studies revealed that the consumer grade CMOS sensor has inherent UVA sensitivities, despite attenuating effects of the lens. Narrow bandpass and neutral density filters were used to protect the image sensor and to not allow saturation of the solar images produced. Observations were made on clear days, free from clouds. The results of this research demonstrate that there is a definable response to changing solar irradiance and aerosol optical depth can be measured within 5% and 10% error margins at 380 and 340 nm respectively. The greater relative error occurs at lower wavelengths (340 nm) due to increased atmospheric scattering effects, particularly at higher air masses and due to lower signal to noise ratio in the image sensor. The relative error for solar irradiance was under 1% for observations made at 380 nm. The results indicate that the smartphone image sensor, with additional external narrow bandpass and neutral density filters can be used as a field sensor to evaluate solar UVA irradiance and aerosol optical depth.
Differential Ovarian Morphometry and Follicular Expression of BMP15, GDF9 and BMPR1B Influence the Prolificacy in Goat
Authors: Pramod RK , Sharma SK , Singhi A , Pan S , Mitra A
Published: April 2013

Contents

The variation in the kidding size of Black Bengal and Sirohi breed of goats makes them an interesting genetic material to study the underlying genetic mechanism of prolificacy. Accordingly, we studied the comparative ovarian morphometry including disparity in numbers of antral follicles of different sizes between these two breeds. Further, we evaluated the differential expression of the important candidate genes (viz., BMP15, GDF9 and BMPR1B) known to influence the ovulation rates and the prolificacy. The ovaries of Black Bengal (n = 20) goat were lighter (p < 0.01) in weight and smaller (p < 0.01) in diameter than those of Sirohi (n = 19) goats but possessed more numbers (p < 0.05) of corpus luteum (CL), large and small antral follicles. Quantitative real‐time PCR (RT‐qPCR) analysis revealed differential expression of mRNAs encoding for the BMP15 and GDF9. Small antral follicles of Black Bengal goats expressed 2.78‐fold more (p < 0.05) of BMP 15 than those of Sirohi goat. Expression of BMP15 (p < 0.01) and GDF9 (p < 0.05) mRNAs was more abundant in the small than the large antral follicles of Black Bengal goat. The more numbers of antral follicles per unit of ovarian mass and differential expression of BMP15 and GDF9 may serve as an important clue for higher prolificacy.
Effect of Physiologically Relevant Heat Shock on Development, Apoptosis and Expression of Some Genes in Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Embryos Produced In Vitro
Authors: Yadav A , Singh KP , Singh MK , Saini N , Palta P , Manik RS , Singla SK , Upadhyay RC , Chauhan MS
Published: April 2013

Contents

For investigating the effects of physiologically relevant heat shock, buffalo oocytes/embryos were cultured at 38.5°C (control) or were exposed to 39.5°C (Group II) or 40.5°C (Group III) for 2 h once every day throughout in vitro maturation (IVM), fertilization (IVF) and culture (IVC). Percentage of oocytes that developed to 8‐cell, 16‐cell or blastocyst stage was lower (p < 0.05) and the number of apoptotic nuclei was higher (p < 0.05) for Group III > Group II > controls. At both 8–16‐cell and blastocyst stages, relative mRNA abundance of stress‐related genes HSP 70.1 and HSP 70.2 and pro‐apoptotic genes CASPASE‐3, BID and BAX was higher (p < 0.05) in Groups III and II than that in controls with the exception of stress‐related gene HSF1. Expression level of anti‐apoptotic genes BCL‐XL and MCL‐1 was also higher (p < 0.05) in Groups III and II than that in controls at both 8–16‐cell and blastocyst stages. Among the genes related to embryonic development, at 8–16‐cell stage, the expression level of GDF9 was higher (p < 0.05) in Group III than that in controls, whereas that of GLUT1, ZAR1 and BMP15 was not significantly different among the three groups. At the blastocyst stage, relative mRNA abundance of GLUT1 and GDF9 was higher (p < 0.05) in Group II than that in controls, whereas that of ZAR‐1 and BMP15 was not affected. The results of this study demonstrate that exposure of buffalo oocytes and embryos to elevated temperatures for duration of time that is physiologically relevant severely compromises their developmental competence, increases apoptosis and affects stress‐, apoptosis‐ and development‐related genes.
Older patients referred by community nurses to emergency departments – a descriptive cross‐sectional follow‐up study in a Swedish context
Authors: Kihlgren Annica , Wimo Anders , Mamhidir Anna‐Greta
Published: April 2013

Objectives

The objective of this study was to examine on what extent nursing home (NH) older patients aged 75 or older, referred to hospitals by registered nurses (RNs) in the community, utilise the emergency department (ED) over a 1‐year period and for what reason. A further objective was to identify factors that may explain these referrals.

Methods

A cross‐sectional follow‐up study, examining older patients' disabilities, resources and needs, was carried out in a county in Sweden. Assessments were made using Residents Assessment Instrument/Minimum Data Set, among 719 individuals in 24 NHs and the RNs' documentation were followed.

Results

The result showed that of 719 residents, 209 accounted for 314 referrals to an ED over the 1‐year period. No gender differences were observed. The main reasons for referrals were falls (23%), cardiovascular problems (16%), gastrointestinal problems (12%) and infections (11%). Most of the referrals (65%) were made on weekdays during daytime hours. In 62% of the cases, there had been a consultation with a physician prior to the referral. The nursing documentation was poor in connection with the referral.

Conclusion

Older patients with dementia diseases were significant less refereed and questions are raised whether this group is undetected and undertreated, and therefore, it is important with further investigation.
Leg weakness in a lung transplant patient
Authors: Moua T. , Rizza S.A. , Kennedy C.C.
Published: April 2013

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is associated with JC polyomavirus (JCV) infection of central nervous system oligodendrocytes resulting in demyelinization and progressive focal neurologic deficits. Reactivation of dormant JCV occurs in the setting of immunosuppression, most commonly in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) or hematological malignancies. PML has also been reported in solid organ transplant recipients. We report the case of a 61‐year‐old man after bilateral lung transplantation for chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis who presented with leg weakness, cognitive decline, and expressive aphasia at 5 months post transplantation. Magnetic resonance imaging and brain biopsy were consistent with PML. Treatment attempt with cytarabine was unsuccessful, and immunomodulation resulted in recurrent grade A3 rejection. The difficulty of managing PML in lung transplant patients is highlighted by the lack of directed therapy and risk of graft rejection or failure with attempts at decreasing immunosuppression.
Late onset invasive pneumococcal disease in a liver transplanted patient: beyond the Austrian syndrome
Authors: Belvisi V. , Del Borgo C. , Morelli F. , Marocco R. , Tieghi T. , Fabietti P. , Vetica A. , Lichtner M. , Mastroianni C.M.
Published: April 2013

Invasive disease caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in high‐risk individuals with severe comorbidities, including asplenia, chronic alcoholism, and altered immune status. The risk of invasive pneumococcal disease has been significantly higher in transplant patients compared with the general population. Here, we report an unusual case of a disseminated pneumococcal infection with meningitis, endocarditis, spondylodiscitis, and muscle abscess in an asplenic patient on chronic immunosuppressive therapy for liver transplantation performed 17 years before.
Roles of CAMTA transcription factors and salicylic acid in configuring the low‐temperature transcriptome and freezing tolerance of Arabidopsis
Authors: Kim YongSig , Park Sunchung , Gilmour Sarah J. , Thomashow Michael F.
Published: April 2013

Previous studies in Arabidopsis thaliana established roles for CALMODULIN BINDING TRANSCRIPTION ACTIVATOR 3 (CAMTA3) in the rapid cold induction of CRT/DRE BINDING FACTOR (CBF) genes CBF1 and CBF2, and the repression of salicylic acid (SA) biosynthesis at warm temperature. Here we show that CAMTA1 and CAMTA2 work in concert with CAMTA3 at low temperature (4°C) to induce peak transcript levels of CBF1, CBF2 and CBF3 at 2 h, contribute to up‐regulation of approximately 15% of the genes induced at 24 h, most of which fall outside the CBF pathway, and increase plant freezing tolerance. In addition, CAMTA1, CAMTA2 and CAMTA3 function together to inhibit SA biosynthesis at warm temperature (22°C). However, SA levels increase in Arabidopsis plants that are exposed to low temperature for more than 1 week. We show that this chilling‐induced SA biosynthesis proceeds through the isochorismate synthase (ICS) pathway, with cold induction of ICS1 (which encodes ICS), and two genes encoding transcription factors that positively regulate ICS1 – CBP60g and SARD1 –, paralleling SA accumulation. The three CAMTA proteins effectively repress the accumulation of ICS1, CBP60g and SARD1 transcripts at warm temperature but not at low temperature. This impairment of CAMTA function may involve post‐transcriptional regulation, as CAMTA transcript levels did not decrease at low temperature. Salicylic acid biosynthesis at low temperature did not contribute to freezing tolerance, but had a major role in configuring the transcriptome, including the induction of ‘defense response’ genes, suggesting the possible existence of a pre‐emptive defense strategy programmed by prolonged chilling temperatures.
A root chicory MADS box sequence and the Arabidopsis flowering repressor FLC share common features that suggest conserved function in vernalization and de‐vernalization responses
Authors: Périlleux Claire , Pieltain Alexandra , Jacquemin Guillaume , Bouché Frédéric , Detry Nathalie , D'Aloia Maria , Thiry Laura , Aljochim Pierre , Delansnay Martin , Mathieu Anne‐Sophie , Lutts Stanley , Tocquin Pierre
Published: April 2013

Root chicory (Cichorium intybus var. sativum) is a biennial crop, but is harvested to obtain root inulin at the end of the first growing season before flowering. However, cold temperatures may vernalize seeds or plantlets, leading to incidental early flowering, and hence understanding the molecular basis of vernalization is important. A MADS box sequence was isolated by RT‐PCR and named FLC‐LIKE1 (CiFL1) because of its phylogenetic positioning within the same clade as the floral repressor Arabidopsis FLOWERING LOCUS C (AtFLC). Moreover, over‐expression of CiFL1 in Arabidopsis caused late flowering and prevented up‐regulation of the AtFLC target FLOWERING LOCUS T by photoperiod, suggesting functional conservation between root chicory and Arabidopsis. Like AtFLC in Arabidopsis, CiFL1 was repressed during vernalization of seeds or plantlets of chicory, but repression of CiFL1 was unstable when the post‐vernalization temperature was favorable to flowering and when it de‐vernalized the plants. This instability of CiFL1 repression may be linked to the bienniality of root chicory compared with the annual lifecycle of Arabidopsis. However, re‐activation of AtFLC was also observed in Arabidopsis when a high temperature treatment was used straight after seed vernalization, eliminating the promotive effect of cold on flowering. Cold‐induced down‐regulation of a MADS box floral repressor and its re‐activation by high temperature thus appear to be conserved features of the vernalization and de‐vernalization responses in distant species.