bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of sexual dysfunction in women with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Mohammadi Khadijeh , Rahnama Parvin , Mohseni Sakineh Moayed , Sahraian Mohammad Ali , Montazeri Ali
Published: July 2013

Background

The aim of present study was to determine disease-related and psychological risk factors for sexual dysfunction in women with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

This was a clinical-based study conducted from September 2009 to June 2010 in Tehran, Iran. A consecutive sample of female patients with MS was recruited from an outpatient clinic. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used to evaluate sexual function. In addition neurological impairment was measured using the Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), and depression was assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed in order to examine the association between sexual dysfunction and independent variables.

Results

In all, 226 women participated in the study. Of these, 125 women (55.3%) met the criteria for sexual dysfunction. The mean age of participants was 35.7 years (SD = 8.07). The results obtained from multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that the disease duration (OR for the disease duration of equal or greater than 9 years = 3.13, %95 CI = 1.29-7.57, P = 0.01), the disease course (OR for secondary progressive MS = 3.96, %95 CI = 1.55-10.10, P = 0.004) and the BDI score (OR = 1.11, %95 CI = 1.07-1.16, P < 0.001) were significant factors contributing to sexual dysfunction in these patients.

Conclusions

The findings from this study indicated that the duration and severity of the disease in addition to depression were the most significant factors that contributed to sexual dysfunction in women with multiple sclerosis. The burden of disease and sexual dysfunction suggests the need for further attention to this patient population.
A qualitative study exploring factors associated with mothers’ decisions to formula-feed their infants in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Authors: Bonia Kimberly , Twells Laurie , Halfyard Beth , Ludlow Valerie , Newhook Leigh Anne , Murphy-Goodridge Janet
Published: July 2013

Background

Breastfeeding has numerous health benefits. In 2010, the province of Newfoundland and Labrador had the lowest breastfeeding initiation rate (64.0%) in Canada. Formula feeding is associated with well-known health risks. Exclusive formula feeding is the “cultural norm” in some regions of the province. Women appear resistant to changing their infant feeding behaviors and remain committed to their decision to formula-feed. The primary aim of this qualitative study was to examine individual factors that shaped mothers’ decisions to formula-feed their infants. Nineteen mothers who were currently formula feeding their children participated in the study.

Methods

Qualitative research in the form of focus groups was conducted in three communities in the province in 2010. A thematic content analysis identified the main themes that influenced mothers’ decisions to formula-feed their infants.

Results

The main themes included issues concerning the support needed to breastfeed, the convenience associated with formula feeding, and the embarrassment surrounding breastfeeding in public.

Conclusions

These findings help to better understand why mothers choose formula feeding over breastfeeding and may help to inform the development of public health interventions targeted at this population of mothers.
Oseltamivir use and outcomes during the 2009 influenza A H1N1 pandemic in Taiwan
Authors: Liu Chia-Hung , Wang Jiun-Ling , Su Chia-Ping , Chuang Jen-Hsiang , Chang Chia-Hsuin , Lai Mei-Shu
Published: July 2013

Background

The Taiwan CDC provided free oseltamivir to all patients with influenza infections confirmed by rapid testing or who had clinical warning symptoms during the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic in Taiwan. However, oseltamivir utilization patterns, cost, and outcomes among oseltamivir-treated patients remained unclear.

Method

A population-level, observational cohort study was conducted using the Taiwan National Health Insurance Database from January to December 2009 to describe the use of oseltamivir.

Result

Prescription trend over weeks increased after a change in government policy and responded to the influenza virus activity. The overall prescription rate was 22.33 per 1000 persons, with the highest prescription rate of 116.5 for those aged 7–12 years, followed by 69.0 for those aged 13–18 years, while the lowest rate was 1.7 for those aged ≥ 65 years. As influenza virus activity increased, the number of prescriptions for those aged ≤18 years rose significantly, whereas no substantial change was observed for those aged ≥65 years. There were also regional variations in terms of oseltamivir utilization and influenza complication rates.

Conclusions

Oseltamivir was widely used in the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic in Taiwan, particularly in those aged 7–18 years. The number of prescriptions for oseltamivir increased with a change in government policy and with increasing cases of pandemic influenza. Further study is needed to examine whether there is an over- or under-use of anti-influenza drugs in different age groups or regions and to examine the current policy of public use of anti-influenza drugs to reduce influenza-associated morbidity and mortality.
Banhabaekchulchunma-tang, a traditional herbal formula attenuates absolute ethanol-induced gastric injury by enhancing the antioxidant status
Authors: Shin In-Sik , Jeon Woo-Young , Shin Hyeun-Kyoo , Cha Sin-Woo , Lee Mee-Young
Published: July 2013

Background

Banhabaekchulchunma-tang (hange-byakujutsu-tenma-to in Japanese and banxia-baizhu-tianma-tang in Chinese) is a mixture of fourteen herbs. It is used traditionally for the treatment of anemia, anorexia, general weakness, and female infertility in China, Japan, and Korea. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of a Banhabaekchulchunma-tang water extract (BCT) against ethanol-induced acute gastric injury in rats.

Methods

Gastric injury was induced by intragastric administration of 5 mL/kg body weight of absolute ethanol to each rat. The positive control group and the BCT group were given oral doses of omeprazole (50 mg/kg) or BCT (400 mg/kg), respectively, 2 h prior to the administration of absolute ethanol. The stomach of each animal was excised and examined for gastric mucosal lesions. To confirm the protective effects of BCT, we evaluated the degree of lipid peroxidation, the level of reduced glutathione (GSH), and the activities of the antioxidant enzymes catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase in the stomach. In addition, we conducted an acute toxicity study to evaluate the safety of BCT according to OECD guideline.

Results

BCT reduced ethanol-induced hemorrhage, hyperemia, and loss of epithelial cell in the gastric mucosa. BCT reduced the increased lipid peroxidation associated with ethanol-induced acute gastric lesions, and increased the mucosal GSH content and the activities of antioxidant enzymes. In addition, BCT did not cause any adverse effects at up to 5000 mg/kg.

Conclusions

These results indicate that BCT protects the gastric mucosa against ethanol-induced gastric injury by increasing the antioxidant status. We suggest that BCT could be developed as an effective drug for the treatment of gastric injury caused by alcohol intake.
Development of a questionnaire to assess the impact on parents of their infant’s bronchiolitis hospitalization
Authors: Lapillonne Alexandre , Regnault Antoine , Gournay Véronique , Gouyon Jean-Bernard , Benmedjahed Khadra , Anghelescu Daniela , Arnould Benoit , Moriette Guy
Published: July 2013

Background

Bronchiolitis is a distressing respiratory condition and the most common cause of hospitalization during the first year of life. The hospitalization of an infant is a stressful event for parents and deserves careful consideration. The objective of this work was to develop and validate a self-administered instrument that comprehensively assesses the impact on parents of the hospitalization of their infant for bronchiolitis.

Methods

The Impact of Bronchiolitis Hospitalization Questionnaire (IBHQ©) was developed using a literature review and pre-study interviews with both parents and clinicians. For finalization and psychometric validation, it was included in a multicenter, longitudinal, observational study conducted in France. Parents of infants under the age of 1 year and hospitalized for bronchiolitis were asked to complete the questionnaire at hospital discharge, and 3 months after.

Results

Seven hundred and seven questionnaires were completed by the parents of the 463 eligible infants. After finalization, based on principal component analyses, the IBHQ included 30 core items allowing the calculation of 7 dimension core scores (Worries and distress; Fear for future; Guilt; Impact on daily organization; Physical impact; Impact on behavior with hospitalized infant; Financial impact), as well as 16 optional items, allowing the calculation of 5 optional dimension scores (Disturbed breastfeeding; Physical reaction of hospitalized infant; Impact on feeding; Impact on behavior with other infants; Siblings’ reaction). Internal consistency reliability and construct validity of the IBHQ were satisfactory. The highest impact was observed for “Worries and distress”, “Fear for future” and “Impact on daily organization” scores.

Conclusions

The IBHQ is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing the multifaceted impact on parents of the hospitalization of their infant for bronchiolitis.
Direct comparison of the histidine-rich protein-2 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (HRP-2 ELISA) and malaria SYBR green I fluorescence (MSF) drug sensitivity tests in Plasmodium falciparum reference clones and fresh ex vivo field isolates from Cambodia
Authors: Chaorattanakawee Suwanna , Tyner Stuart D , Lon Chanthap , Yingyuen Kritsanai , Ruttvisutinunt Wiriya , Sundrakes Siratchana , Sai-gnam Piyaporn , Johnson Jacob D , Walsh Douglas S , Saunders David L , Lanteri Charlotte A
Published: July 2013

Background

Performance of the histidine-rich protein-2 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (HRP-2 ELISA) and malaria SYBR Green I fluorescence (MSF) drug sensitivity tests were directly compared using Plasmodium falciparum reference strains and fresh ex vivo isolates from Cambodia against a panel of standard anti-malarials. The objective was to determine which of these two common assays is more appropriate for studying drug susceptibility of “immediate ex vivo” (IEV) isolates, analysed without culture adaption, in a region of relatively low malaria transmission.

Methods

Using the HRP-2 and MSF methods, the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values against a panel of malaria drugs were determined for P. falciparum reference clones (W2, D6, 3D7 and K1) and 41 IEV clinical isolates from an area of multidrug resistance in Cambodia. Comparison of the IC50 values from the two methods was made using Wilcoxon matched pair tests and Pearson’s correlation. The lower limit of parasitaemia detection for both methods was determined for reference clones and IEV isolates. Since human white blood cell (WBC) DNA in clinical samples is known to reduce MSF assay sensitivity, SYBR Green I fluorescence linearity of P. falciparum samples spiked with WBCs was evaluated to assess the relative degree to which MSF sensitivity is reduced in clinical samples.

Results

IC50 values correlated well between the HRP-2 and MSF methods when testing either P. falciparum reference clones or IEV isolates against 4-aminoquinolines (chloroquine, piperaquine and quinine) and the quinoline methanol mefloquine (Pearson r = 0.85-0.99 for reference clones and 0.56-0.84 for IEV isolates), whereas a weaker IC50 value correlation between methods was noted when testing artemisinins against reference clones and lack of correlation when testing IEV isolates. The HRP-2 ELISA produced a higher overall success rate (90% for producing IC50 best-fit sigmoidal curves), relative to only a 40% success rate for the MSF assay, when evaluating ex vivo Cambodian isolates. Reduced sensitivity of the MSF assay is likely due to an interference of WBCs in clinical samples.

Conclusions

For clinical samples not depleted of WBCs, HRP-2 ELISA is superior to the MSF assay at evaluating fresh P. falciparum field isolates with low parasitaemia (<0.2%) generally observed in Southeast Asia.
Artificial microRNA-mediated resistance against the monopartite begomovirus Cotton leaf curl Burewala virus
Authors: Ali Irfan , Amin Imran , Briddon Rob W , Mansoor Shahid
Published: July 2013

Background

Cotton leaf curl disease, caused by single-stranded DNA viruses of the genusBegomovirus(familyGeminiviridae), is a major constraint to cotton cultivation across Pakistan and north-western India. At this time only cotton varieties with moderate tolerance are available to counter the disease. microRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of endogenous small RNA molecules that play an important role in plant development, signal transduction, and response to biotic and a biotic stress. Studies have shown that miRNAs can be engineered to alter their target specificity. Such artificial miRNAs (amiRNAs) have been shown to provide resistance against plant-infecting viruses.

Results

Two amiRNA constructs, based on the sequence of cotton miRNA169a, were produced containing 21 nt of the V2 gene sequence ofCotton leaf curl Burewala virus(CLCuBuV) and transformed intoNicotiana benthamiana. The first amiRNA construct (P1C) maintained the miR169a sequence with the exception of the replaced 21 nt whereas in the second (P1D) the sequence of the miRNA169a backbone was altered to restore some of the hydrogen bonding of the mature miRNA duplex. P1C transgenic plants showed good resistance when challenge with CLCuBV; plants being asymptomatic with low viral DNA levels. The resistance to heterologous viruses was lower and correlated with the numbers of sequence mismatches between the amiRNA and the V2 gene sequence. P1D plants showed overall poorer resistance to challenge with all viruses tested.

Conclusions

The results show that the amiRNA approach can deliver efficient resistance in plants against a monopartite begomoviruses and that this has the potential to be broad-spectrum, providing protection from a number of viruses. Additionally the findings indicate that the levels of resistance depend upon the levels of complementarity between the amiRNA and the target sequence and the sequence of the miRNA backbone, consistent with earlier studies.
Release behavior and toxicity profiles towards A549 cell lines of ciprofloxacin from its layered zinc hydroxide intercalation compound
Authors: Abdul Latip Ahmad Faiz , Hussein Mohd Zobir , Stanslas Johnson , Wong Charng Choon , Adnan Rohana
Published: July 2013

Background

Layered hydroxides salts (LHS), a layered inorganic compound is gaining attention in a wide range of applications, particularly due to its unique anion exchange properties. In this work, layered zinc hydroxide nitrate (LZH), a family member of LHS was intercalated with anionic ciprofloxacin (CFX), a broad spectrum antibiotic via ion exchange in a mixture solution of water:ethanol.

Results

Powder x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) confirmed the drug anions were successfully intercalated in the interlayer space of LZH. Specific surface area of the obtained compound was increased compared to that of the host due to the different pore textures between the two materials. CFX anions were slowly released over 80 hours in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) solution due to strong interactions that occurred between the intercalated anions and the host lattices. The intercalation compound demonstrated enhanced antiproliferative effects towards A549 cancer cells compared to the toxicity of CFX alone.

Conclusions

Strong host-guest interactions between the LZH lattice and the CFX anion give rise to a new intercalation compound that demonstrates sustained release mode and enhanced toxicity effects towards A549 cell lines. These findings should serve as foundations towards further developments of the brucite-like host material in drug delivery systems.
Lobular intraepithelial neoplasia arising within breast fibroadenoma
Authors: Limite Gennaro , Esposito Emanuela , Sollazzo Viviana , Ciancia Giuseppe , Di Micco Rosa , De Rosa Dario , Forestieri Pietro
Published: July 2013

Background

Fibroadenomas are the second most common breast pathology occurring in young women under the age of 35 years old. Fibroadenomas can be classified as simple or complex according to histological features. Complex fibroadenomas differ from simple fibroadenomas because of the presence of cysts (3 mm), sclerosing adenosis, epithelial calcifications, or papillary apocrine changes. Most fibroadenomas are clinically identifiable. In 25% of cases, fibroadenomas are non-palpable and are diagnosed with mammography and ultrasound. Differential diagnosis with well differentiated breast cancer is often necessary, particularly with medullary or mucinous tumors. Calcification findings within fibroadenomas by mammogram have to be investigated. The age of a lump is usually reflected by calcifications. Microcalcification can hide foci of carcinoma in situ when they are small, branching type, and heterogeneous. However, many morphological possibilities may not be reliable for deciding whether a certain calcification is the product of a malignant or a benign process. From a radiological point of view, fibroadenomas containing foci of carcinoma in situ can be indistinguishable from benign lesions, even if the incidence of carcinoma within fibroadenomas is estimated as 0.1–0.3%, and it could be a long-term risk factor for invasive breast cancer.

Case presentation

A 44-year-old woman presented with a 1.5-cm palpable, smooth, mobile lump in the lower-inner quadrant of her right breast. Standard mediolateral oblique and craniocaudal mammograms showed a cluster of eccentric popcorn-like calcifications within the fibroadenoma. After lumpectomy, a definitive histological examination confirmed the intra-operative diagnosis of a benign mass. However, lobular intraepithelial neoplasia foci were found, surrounded by atypical lobular hyperplasia.

Conclusions

The possibility of an old benign breast lump might be supported by fine needle aspiration biopsy or core biopsy before initiating follow-up. According to our experience, when patients are older than 40 years and have a familial history of breast cancer, we prefer to carry out lumpectomy with follow up to avoid the risk of underestimation in situ foci within the lump.
Lifelong endurance training attenuates age-related genotoxic stress in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Cobley James N , Sakellariou George K , Murray Scott , Waldron Sarah , Gregson Warren , Burniston Jatin G , Morton James P , Iwanejko Lesley A , Close Graeme L
Published: July 2013

Background

The aim of the present study was to determine the influence of age and habitual activity level, at rest and following a single bout of high-intensity exercise, on the levels of three proteins poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1), cleaved-PARP-1 and poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase (PARG), involved in the DNA repair and cell death responses to stress and genotoxic insults. Muscle biopsies were obtained from the vastus lateralis of young trained (22 ± 3 years, n = 6), young untrained (24 ± 4 years, n = 6), old trained (64 ± 3 years, n = 6) and old untrained (65 ± 6 years, n = 6) healthy males before, immediately after and three days following a high-intensity interval exercise bout.

Results

PARP-1, which catalyzes poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation of proteins and DNA in response to a range of intrinsic and extrinsic stresses, was increased at baseline in old trained and old untrained compared with young trained and young untrained participants (P ≤ 0.05). Following exercise, PARP-1 levels remained unchanged in young trained participants, in contrast to old trained and old untrained where levels decreased and young untrained where levels increased (P ≤ 0.05). Interestingly, baseline levels of the cleaved PARP-1, a marker of apoptosis, and PARG, responsible for polymer degradation, were both significantly elevated in old untrained compared with old trained, young trained and young untrained (P ≤ 0.05). Despite this baseline difference in PARG, there was no change in any group following exercise. There was a non-significant statistical trend (P = 0.072) towards increased cleaved-PARP-1 expression post-exercise in younger but not old persons, regardless of training status.

Conclusions

Collectively, these results show that exercise slows the progression towards a chronically stressed state but has no impact on the age-related attenuated response to acute exercise. Our findings provide valuable insight into how habitual exercise training could protect skeletal muscle from chronic damage to macromolecules and may reduce sarcopenia in older people.
Cyanobacteria in wetlands of the industrialized Sambalpur District of India
Authors: Deep Pratibha Rani , Bhattacharyya Shantanu , Nayak Binata
Published: July 2013

Background

Cyanobacteria are common components of phytoplankton communities in most freshwater ecosystems. Proliferations of cyanobacteria are often caused by high nutrient loading, and as such can serve as indicators of declining water quality. Massive industrialization in developing countries, like India, has polluted fresh water bodies, including wetlands. Many industries directly discard their effluents to nearby water sources without treatment. In the Sambalpur District of India effluents reach the reservoir of the worlds largest earthen dam i.e Hirakud Dam. This study examines cyanobacteria communities in the wetlands of Sambalpur District, Odisha, India, including areas subjected to industrial pollution.

Result & Discussion

The genera Anabaena, Oscillatoria, Chroococcus, Phormidium were dominant genera of polluted wetlands of Sambalpur districts. A positive correlation was found between total cyanobacterial species and dissolved oxygen levels, but cyanobacterial diversity was inversely related to BOD, COD, TSS, and TDS. High dissolved oxygen content was also associated with regions of lower cyanobacteria biomass.

Conclusion

Cyanobacterial abundance was positively correlated to content of oxidisable organic matter, but negatively correlated to species diversity. Lower dissolved oxygen was correlated to decreased diversity and increased dominance by Anabaena, Oscillatoria, Chroococcus, Phormidium species, observed in regions characterized by deteriorated water quality.
ELIXYS - a fully automated, three-reactor high-pressure radiosynthesizer for development and routine production of diverse PET tracers
Authors: Lazari Mark , Quinn Kevin M , Claggett Shane B , Collins Jeffrey , Shah Gaurav J , Herman Henry E , Maraglia Brandon , Phelps Michael E , Moore Melissa D , van Dam R Michael
Published: July 2013

Background

Automated radiosynthesizers are vital for routine production of positron-emission tomography tracers to minimize radiation exposure to operators and to ensure reproducible synthesis yields. The recent trend in the synthesizer industry towards the use of disposable kits aims to simplify setup and operation for the user, but often introduces several limitations related to temperature and chemical compatibility, thus requiring reoptimization of protocols developed on non-cassette-based systems. Radiochemists would benefit from a single hybrid system that provides tremendous flexibility for development and optimization of reaction conditions while also providing a pathway to simple, cassette-based production of diverse tracers.

Methods

We have designed, built, and tested an automated three-reactor radiosynthesizer (ELIXYS) to provide a flexible radiosynthesis platform suitable for both tracer development and routine production. The synthesizer is capable of performing high-pressure and high-temperature reactions by eliminating permanent tubing and valve connections to the reaction vessel. Each of the three movable reactors can seal against different locations on disposable cassettes to carry out different functions such as sealed reactions, evaporations, and reagent addition. A reagent and gas handling robot moves sealed reagent vials from storage locations in the cassette to addition positions and also dynamically provides vacuum and inert gas to ports on the cassette. The software integrates these automated features into chemistry unit operations (e.g., React, Evaporate, Add) to intuitively create synthesis protocols. 2-Deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-5-methyl-β-l-arabinofuranosyluracil (l-[18F]FMAU) and 2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-β-d-arabinofuranosylcytosine (d-[18F]FAC) were synthesized to validate the system.

Results

l-[18F]FMAU and d-[18F]FAC were successfully synthesized in 165 and 170 min, respectively, with decay-corrected radiochemical yields of 46% ± 1% (n = 6) and 31% ± 5% (n = 6), respectively. The yield, repeatability, and synthesis time are comparable to, or better than, other reports. d-[18F]FAC produced by ELIXYS and another manually operated apparatus exhibited similar biodistribution in wild-type mice.

Conclusion

The ELIXYS automated radiosynthesizer is capable of performing radiosyntheses requiring demanding conditions: up to three reaction vessels, high temperatures, high pressures, and sensitive reagents. Such flexibility facilitates tracer development and the ability to synthesize multiple tracers on the same system without customization or replumbing. The disposable cassette approach simplifies the transition from development to production.
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound to evaluate changes in renal cortical perfusion around cardiac surgery: a pilot study
Authors: Schneider Antoine G , Goodwin Mark D , Schelleman Anthony , Bailey Michael , Johnson Lynne , Bellomo Rinaldo
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is a new technique that might enable portable and non-invasive organ perfusion quantification at the bedside. However, it has not yet been tested in critically ill patients. We sought to establish CEUS's feasibility, safety, reproducibility and potential diagnostic value in the assessment of renal cortical perfusion in the peri-operative period in cardiac surgery patients.

Methods

We recruited twelve patients deemed at risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) planned for elective cardiac surgery. We performed renal CEUS with destruction-replenishment sequences before the operation, on ICU arrival and the day following the admission. Enhancement was obtained with Sonovue® (Bracco, Milano, Italy) at an infusion rate of 1 ml/min. We collected hemodynamic parameters before, during and after contrast agent infusion. At each study time, we obtained five video sequences, which were analysed using dedicated software by two independent radiologists blinded to patient and time. The main output was a perfusion index (PI), corresponding to the ratio of relative blood volume (RBV) over mean transit time (mTT).

Results

All 36 renal CEUS studies, including 24 in the immediate post-operative period could be performed and were well tolerated. Correlation between readers for PI was excellent (R2 = 0.96, P < 0.0001). Compared with baseline, there was no overall difference in median PI's on ICU admission. However, the day after surgery, median PI's had decreased by 50% (P < 0.01) (22% decrease in RBV (P = 0.09); 48% increase in mTT (P = 0.04), both suggestive of decreased perfusion). These differences persisted after correction for haemoglobin; vasopressors use and mean arterial pressure. Four patients developed AKI in the post-operative period.

Conclusions

CEUS appears feasible and well-tolerated in patients undergoing cardiac surgery even immediately after ICU admission. CEUS derived-parameters suggest a decrease in renal perfusion occurring within 24 hours of surgery.
The effect of rigorous study design in the research of autologous bone marrow-derived mononuclear cell transfer in patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Jeong Hyunsuk , Yim Hyeon Woo , Cho Youngseung , Park Hun Jun , Jeong Sona , Kim Hyun-bin , Hong Wonhee , Kim Heejung
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Although blinding is a methodologic safeguard to ensure obtaining comparability of groups in a clinical trial, it is very difficult to maintain blinding from the beginning to the end of a study. The aim of the study was to see how proper blinding of both participants and treatment providers from the planning phase of the study to during the study affected the study outcomes.

Methods

We searched Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases from inception to November 2011. The studies included in this review were randomized controlled trials, with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients who received percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), intracoronary (IC) infusion of autologous bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs), unselected BMSCs, 108 or more cell dose, and up to 6-month follow-up periods.

Results

The initial search identified 881 references, of which 17 references were eligible for inclusion. Six of 17 trials isolated cells directly from bone marrow by aspiration in the control group as well as in the BMSC group. Nine of 17 trials underwent both cardiac catheterization and an identical injection procedure on the control group as well as the BMSC group.

Compared with the control group, BMSC transplantation improved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) by 2.51 (95% CI, 1.20 to 3.83; P = 0.0002; I
2
= 75%) at 6 months. In the present results, the studies that did not perform bone marrow aspiration in the control group showed significant improvement in LVEF by 3.81% (95% CI, 2.44 to 5.17), whereas no significant treatment effect was found in the studies in which the control group underwent bone marrow aspiration, as indicated the LVEF change of −1.29% (95% CI, 4.15 to 1.58). The trials that did not conduct catheterization on control subjects showed significant LVEF changes (4.45%; 95% CI, 2.48 to 6.43); however, those with cardiac catheterization as a sham procedure on the control group did not show significant changes in LVEF at 6 months (0.92%; 95% CI, -0.61 to 2.44).

Conclusions

Unblinding might be overestimating the treatment effect. These findings suggest that randomized controlled trials testing the efficacy of BMSC therapy should be appropriately designed and rigorously applied to avoid bias.
Emerging role for the voltage-dependent K+ channel Kv1.5 in B-lymphocyte physiology: expression associated with human lymphoma malignancy
Authors: Vallejo-Gracia Albert , Bielanska Joanna , Hernández-Losa Javier , Castellví Josep , Ruiz-Marcellan M Carmen , Ramón y Cajal Santiago , Condom Enric , Manils Joan , Soler Concepció , Comes Núria , Ferreres Joan Carles , Felipe Antonio
Published: July 2013

Kv, which play a role in the immune system, are remodeled during carcinogenesis. Leukocytes present a limited Kv repertoire, with Kv1.3 and Kv1.5 as isoforms that are involved in neoplastic processes, such as proliferation and migration. In this study, we identified Kv1.5 in B-lymphocytes, characterized its role in proliferation and migration, and analyzed Kv1.3 and Kv1.5 expression in human non-Hodgkin lymphomas. DLBCL, F, MCL, ALCL, and T, along with control N specimens, were analyzed. Kv1.3 and Kv1.5 were found to be remodeled differentially; whereas Kv1.3 expression did not correlate with the state of dedifferentiation or the nature of lymphomatous cells, Kv1.5 abundance correlated inversely with clinical aggressiveness. Whereas indolent F expressed noticeable levels of Kv1.5, aggressive DLBCL showed low Kv1.5 levels. In addition, control LNs expressed heterogeneous high levels of Kv1.3, which could indicate some reactivity, whereas Kv1.5 abundance was low and quite homogeneous. Our data show that Kv1.5 is a determinant of human B cell proliferation and migration, thereby identifying this channel as a new target for immunomodulation. Our work also provides new insights into the use of Kv1.3 and Kv1.5 as potential targets during tumorigenesis.
N6-isopentenyladenosine, an endogenous isoprenoid end product, directly affects cytotoxic and regulatory functions of human NK cells through FDPS modulation
Authors: Ciaglia Elena , Pisanti Simona , Picardi Paola , Laezza Chiara , Malfitano Anna Maria , D'Alessandro Alba , Gazzerro Patrizia , Vitale Mario , Carbone Ennio , Bifulco Maurizio
Published: July 2013

iPA is a naturally occurring nucleoside with an isopentenyl moiety derived from the mevalonate pathway and a well-established anti-tumor activity. In analogy to the unique specificity for phosphoantigens, such as IPP, shown by human Vγ9Vδ2 T cells, here, we report for the first time the ability of iPA to selectively expand and directly target human NK cells. Interestingly, submicromolar doses of iPA stimulate resting human NK cells and synergize with IL-2 to induce a robust activation ex vivo with significant secretion of CCL5 and CCL3 and a large increase in TNF-α and IFN-γ production when compared with IL-2 single cytokine treatment. Moreover, iPA promotes NK cell proliferation and up-regulates the expression of specific NK cell-activating receptors, as well as CD69 and CD107a expression. Accordingly, this phenotype correlates with significantly greater cytotoxicity against tumor targets. At the molecular level, iPA leads to a selective, potent activation of MAPK signaling intermediaries downstream of the IL-2R. The effect results, at least in part, from the fine modulation of the FDPS activity, the same enzyme implicated in the stimulation of the human γδ T cells. The iPA-driven modulation of FDPS can cause an enhancement of post-translational prenylation essential for the biological activity of key proteins in NK signaling and effector functions, such as Ras. These unanticipated properties of iPA provide an additional piece of evidence of the immunoregulatory role of the intermediates of the mevalonate pathway and open novel therapeutic perspectives for this molecule as an immune-modulatory drug.
Improved prediction of hydraulic conductivity for coarse-grained, unconsolidated material from nuclear magnetic resonance
Authors: Dlugosch Raphael , Günther Thomas , Müller-Petke Mike , Yaramanci Ugur
Published: July 2013

The prediction of hydraulic conductivity [Formula: see text] from nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements has been performed primarily in sandstones. In hydrogeological applications, however, unconsolidated material is more prevalent. Compared to sandstones, unconsolidated sediments can show pore sizes up to several millimeters. The known (semi-)empiric relations to estimate [Formula: see text] from NMR have been applied on this material, but the underlying assumptions are not valid for large pores. We formulated a new model, called the Kozeny-Godefroy model. It is based on capillary pores with a single pore radius, and accounts for bulk water relaxation and relaxation in porous media under fast- and slow-diffusion conditions. The bulk-water relaxation and slow-diffusion conditions significantly affect the NMR measurements on coarse material. If the impact of the bulk-water relaxation is well known and small, a maximum [Formula: see text] can be derived from NMR measurements by accounting for the slow-diffusion case. The model replaces the empirical factors in known relations with physical, structural, and intrinsic NMR parameters. Focusing the calibration on material-specific NMR parameters improves the prediction of [Formula: see text] for similar material. Measurements on well-sorted glass beads and natural sands with different grain sizes are used for evaluation. These measurements confirm the applicability of the new model and, for coarse material, show the limit of the fast-diffusion-based Seevers and Schlumberger-Doll-Research equations. The application of our model is limited to (1) simple pore geometries, and (2) materials with a small range of pore sizes.
Unfaulting and unfolding 3D seismic images
Authors: Luo Simon , Hale Dave
Published: July 2013

Identifying and extracting geologic horizons is useful for interpretation of stratigraphic features as well as analysis of structural deformation. To extract horizons from a seismic image, we developed methods for automatically unfaulting and unfolding an image to restore all horizons to an undeformed, horizontal state. First, using fault surfaces and dip-separation vectors estimated from an image, we interpolated dip-separation vectors at locations between fault surfaces, and then we used the interpolated dip-separation vectors to unfault an image. Then, using a method for automatic seismic image flattening, we unfolded the unfaulted image to obtain a new image in which sedimentary layering is horizontal and also aligned across faults. From this unfaulted and unfolded image, we automatically extracted geologic horizons.
Culture's Impact on the Importance of Fairness in Interorganizational Relationships
Authors: Lund Donald J. , Scheer Lisa K. , Kozlenkova Irina V.
Published: July 2013

Research on interorganizational relationships is predicated on the idea that fairness is always important. The authors question this assumption because most fairness research has been conducted in Western countries, and mixed empirical support draws into question how important fairness actually is. Drawing on Hofstede's cultural dimensions framework, the authors examine culture as an antecedent to the importance of outcome fairness (OF) and procedural fairness (PF) in retailers’ assessments of their relationships with suppliers. The authors also propose that cultural exposure moderates the impact of culture on fairness importance. Using responses from retailers in ten countries analyzed with hierarchical linear modeling, the authors find that uncertainty avoidance enhances the importance of OF and PF, power distance marginally decreases the importance of PF, and long-term orientation increases the importance of both OF and PF. Cultural exposure also positively moderates the impact of uncertainty avoidance and masculinity on both fairness types. The pattern of effects is robust when compared with two alternative models. This study offers a first step in understanding culture's impact on when fairness is more or less important.
The Complexity of Context: A Service Ecosystems Approach for International Marketing
Authors: Akaka Melissa Archpru , Vargo Stephen L. , Lusch Robert F.
Published: July 2013

To strengthen the theoretical foundations of international marketing (IM), the authors propose a framework for conceptualizing the complexity of the context that frames international and global exchange systems. In particular, they apply a service ecosystems approach, which is grounded in service-dominant logic and its foundational premise that service is the basis of all exchange. The proposed framework provides insight into the nature of context, a distinguishing feature of IM. The authors argue that the embeddedness of social networks and the multiplicity of institutions within a service ecosystem influence the complexity of context. They articulate the way the (co)creation of value influences and is influenced by the enactment of practices and the integration of resources through various levels (micro, meso, and macro) of interaction and institutions. They introduce the concept of “value in cultural context” to emphasize the influence of the symbolic and social components of context. The article concludes with a discussion of the research implications for how a service ecosystems view can aid in the advancement of IM theory and practice.
The Effects of Positive and Negative Online Customer Reviews: Do Brand Strength and Category Maturity Matter?
Authors: Ho-Dac Nga N. , Carson Stephen J. , Moore William L.
Published: July 2013

Research has shown brand equity to moderate the relationship between online customer reviews (OCRs) and sales in both the emerging Blu-ray and mature DVD player categories. Positive (negative) OCRs increase (decrease) the sales of models of weak brands (i.e., brands without significant positive brand equity). In contrast, OCRs have no significant impact on the sales of the models of strong brands, although these models do receive a significant sales boost from their greater brand equity. Higher sales lead to a larger number of positive OCRs, and increased positive OCRs aid a brand's transition from weak to strong. This creates a positive feedback loop between sales and positive OCRs for models of weak brands that not only helps their sales but also increases overall brand equity, benefiting all models of the brand. In contrast to the view that brands matter less in the presence of OCRs, we find that OCRs matter less in the presence of strong brands. Positive OCRs function differently than marketing communications in that their effect is greater for weak brands.
Does Knowledge Base Compatibility Help or Hurt Knowledge Sharing between Suppliers in Coopetition? the Role of Customer Participation
Authors: Ho Hillbun (Dixon) , Ganesan Shankar
Published: July 2013

Competing suppliers that collaborate to serve downstream original equipment manufacturer customers often encounter partners with overlapping and compatible knowledge bases. Such knowledge base compatibility provides supplier partners the opportunity to exchange knowledge efficiently, leading to greater knowledge sharing. However, the ease of misappropriation of the shared knowledge can offset this beneficial effect. This research proposes that the effect of knowledge base compatibility on supplier partners' knowledge sharing is moderated by the customer's participation in the collaborative effort and by the customer value such effort creates. The results of two empirical studies show that when levels of both customer participation and customer value are high, knowledge base compatibility between supplier partners leads to greater knowledge sharing. In contrast, when customer participation is high but customer value is low, knowledge base compatibility leads to lower levels of supplier knowledge sharing. This investigation validates the importance of key factors related to supplier partners' opportunity and motivation to share knowledge in coopetitive partnerships.
The Hesitant Hai Gui: Return-Migration Preferences of U.S.-Educated Chinese Scientists and Engineers
Authors: Zeithammer Robert , Kellogg Ryan P.
Published: July 2013

Managers, research administrators, and policy makers need a greater understanding of the factors that drive employment preferences of foreign science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) doctoral graduates of U.S. universities. To address this need, the authors report the results of a large multischool conjoint survey of return-migration preferences among U.S. STEM doctoral students from China. The survey presents the respondents with potential job offers and yields individual-level estimates of each respondent's indirect utility of a job as a function of location, job status, and salary. The authors use a delayed follow-up choice task to demonstrate stability of the preference estimates both over time and across response modalities. The estimated preferences imply that Chinese doctoral graduates tend to remain in the United States because of a large salary disparity between the two countries rather than because of an inherent preference for locating in the United States. Given these estimated preferences, the authors conduct several policy-relevant, counterfactual simulations of return-migration choice and outline effective targeting and positioning strategy for attracting Chinese STEM talent.
Molecular and functional properties of densely and sparsely granulated GH-producing pituitary adenomas
Authors: Mayr Bernhard , Buslei Rolf , Theodoropoulou Marily , Stalla Günter K , Buchfelder Michael , Schöfl Christof
Published: July 2013

Objective

GH-producing pituitary adenomas display two distinct morphological patterns of cytoplasmic GH-containing secretory granules, namely the densely and sparsely granulated somatotroph adenoma subtype. It is unknown whether these morphological variants reflect distinct pathophysiological entities at the molecular level.

Methods

In 28 GH-producing adenoma tissues from a consecutive set of patients undergoing pituitary surgery for acromegaly, we studied the GH granulation pattern, the expression of somatostatin receptor subtypes (SSTR) as well as the calcium, cAMP and ZAC1 pathways in primary adenoma cell cultures.

Results

The expression ofGSPoncogene was similar between densely and sparsely granulated somatotroph adenoma cells. There were no differences in the calcium, cAMP and ZAC1 pathways as well as in their regulation by SSTR agonists. SSTR2 was exclusively expressed in densely but not in sparsely granulated tumours (membrane expression 86 vs 0%; cytoplasmic expression 67 vs 0%). By contrast, expression of SSTR5 was only found in sparsely but not in densely granulated somatotroph adenomas (membrane expression 29 vs 0%; cytoplasmic expression 57 vs 0%).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that different granulation patterns in GH-producing adenomas do not reflect differences in pathways and factors pivotal for somatotroph differentiation and function.In vitro, the vast majority of both densely and sparsely granulated tumour cells were responsive to SSTR activation at the molecular level. Sparsely granulated adenomas lacking SSTR2, but expressing SSTR5, might be responsive to novel SSTR agonists with increased affinity to SSTR5.
MANAGEMENT OF ENDOCRINE DISEASE: Value and limitations of assessing vitamin D nutritional status and advised levels of vitamin D supplementation
Authors: Romagnoli Elisabetta , Pepe Jessica , Piemonte Sara , Cipriani Cristiana , Minisola Salvatore
Published: July 2013

The growing attention to the role of vitamin D in skeletal and extra-skeletal diseases over the last decade induced an increased demand for vitamin D determination as well as a dramatic rise of sales of vitamin D supplement. However, several critical points in this field remain to be clarified. We lack a clear consensus about the definition of vitamin D deficiency, insufficiency, and sufficiency. The identification of different thresholds defining vitamin D status has relevant implications in clinical practice. In fact, the worldwide prevalence of low vitamin D status is highly varying according to the level of 25(OH)D utilized to define sufficiency. Therefore, the assessment of 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels may have a critical role, but a number of different technical problems associated with its determination may interfere in interpreting the results. The hydrophobic nature of vitamin D and the tight binding to its carrier (vitamin D binding protein), the different forms circulating in blood, and the issue of standardization are among the most important factors influencing the measurement of this metabolite. Another controversial point relies on the conflicting guidance on prevention and treatment of vitamin D deficiency endorsed by different medical and scientific communities. In particular, uncertainty exists about how to replete vitamin D stores, how to maintain normal 25(OH)D levels after repletion, which form of vitamin D is preferable for supplementation, and which route of administration and dosing regimens are advisable. Finally, concerns have been raised regarding vitamin D toxicity and its adverse effects.