bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insulin Resistance Is Associated with Gestational Hypertension and Not with Preeclampsia: A Population-Based Screening Study
Authors: Kun Attila
Published: June 2011

Aims: To investigate the relationship between insulin resistance (IR) and subsequent gestational hypertension (GH) or preeclampsia (PE) in normoglycemic and in gestational diabetic pregnant women. Furthermore, we tested whether this association was independent of the prepregnancy body mass index (BMI). Methods: Each participant underwent a 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) according to World Health Organization recommendation criteria with determination of serum glucose and C-peptide concentrations. IR was determined as a C-peptide-to-glucose ratio at the fasting (FCGR) state and at 2 h (2CGR) after load. Results: A total of 2,954 women were included with a singleton pregnancy, delivery at term, no chronic hypertension, and data on both glucose and C-peptide. Of these women, 183 (6.2%) developed GH and 49 (1.7%) PE. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) was diagnosed in 6.0% of the participants. The FCGR and 2CGR were significantly higher in all women with GH, irrespective of their BMI, compared to the normotensive group; however, the PE and the normotensive groups had similar FCGR and 2CGR values. Conclusions: The present study suggests that IR at the OGTT is associated with the later development of GH; on the other hand, it is not associated with PE. These relationships are independent of the maternal BMI.
Prevalence and Related Factors of Urinary Incontinence among Hebei Women of China
Authors: Wu Xiao-Hua , Liu Xiao-Xu , Xie Kai-Hui , Wang Rui-Min , Wu Yan-Xia , Liu Yan-Ge
Published: June 2011

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and related factors of different types of urinary incontinence (UI) among Hebei women in China. Methods: A total of 2,500 women aged 20 years or more were sampled and interviewed face-to-face by well-trained interviewers. Results: Among these women, 35.2% (862/2,448) had UI. The prevalence of stress, urge, and mixed UI was 26.4% (647/2,448), 1.9% (47/2,448), and 6.9% (168/2,448), respectively. In multivariable logistic regression, age, constipation, pelvic organ prolapse, number of abortions, and cesarean sections were associated with both stress and mixed UI; body mass index, dysmenorrhea, vaginitis and cervicitis, fetal weight, and dystocia were associated with stress UI only; age of menarche and dystocia were associated with urge UI only, and living in a city or countryside, a history of pelvic operation, urinary infection, diseases of the respiratory system, heart disease, and alcohol consumption with mixed UI. Conclusions: UI is a highly prevalent condition among women in Hebei Province, PR China. Stress, urge, and mixed UI not only have some related factors in common but also have some different ones. Economic condition and a lack of UI-related knowledge are factors keeping patients from seeing a doctor.
Pictorial Blood Loss Assessment Chart in the Evaluation of Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Diagnostic Accuracy Compared to Alkaline Hematin
Authors: Zakherah Mahmoud S. , Sayed Gamal H. , El-Nashar Sherif A. , Shaaban Mamdouh M.
Published: June 2011

Background/Aims: The pictorial blood assessment chart (PBAC) is a method for evaluation of menstrual blood loss (MBL). This study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of the PBAC score in diagnosing MBL compared to alkaline hematin as a gold standard. Methods: Two cohorts were constructed: 30 women who reported ‘normal’ menses and 170 who reported ‘heavy’ menses. Evaluation of menstruation was performed using the PBAC score and by alkaline hematin. Results: Women who reported normal menses were younger (p = 0.071), had lower parity [median parity of 3 (range 1–6) vs. 4 (range 1–12), p < 0.001] and higher hemoglobin levels (11.1 ± 1.1 vs. 10.1 ± 1.6 g/dl, p < 0.001). PBAC scores and MBL by alkaline hematin were significantly correlated (Spearman r = 0.600, p < 0.001). The PBAC score of 150 had a ĸ of 0.593 (95% CI 0.480–0.687) and an area under the curve of 0.796 (95% CI 0.770–0.821). In a multivariable regression PBAC score >150, presence of blood clots and period duration >7 days were independent predicators of heavy menstrual bleeding with an overall area under the curve of 0.858 (95% CI 0.835–0.879). Conclusions: The PBAC score is a simple and accurate tool for semiobjective of MBL that can be used in clinical practice to aid the decision about treatment and follow-up.
Statins Reduce Dengue Virus Production via Decreased Virion Assembly
Authors: Martínez-Gutierrez Marlén , Castellanos Jaime E. , Gallego-Gómez Juan C.
Published: June 2011

Background: Most of the effects of statins can be explained by pleiotropic effects independent of their lowering of serum cholesterol; in some cases, these effects have been shown to be a result of the role of statins in the prenylation of cellular proteins, some of which are involved in the life cycle of animal viruses. This study evaluated the potential antiviral activity of lovastatin (LOV) against dengue virus (DENV) infection of epithelial and endothelial cells (VERO cells, epithelial cells derived from African green monkey kidney, and HMEC-1 cells, human dermal microvascular endothelial cells). Methods: To evaluate its potential antiviral effects, LOV was used before, during and after inoculation of cell cultures with DENV. Results: Before and after viral inoculation, LOV caused a reduction in virus yield (80% for HMECs and 25% for VERO cells). However, with LOV treatment after inoculation induced a marked increase (2- to 9-fold) in viral-positive RNA while the amount of viral protein increased only by 13–23%. A moderate reduction (1 log unit) in viral titer occurred concurrent with the increase in DENV genomic RNA and protein within the cells. Conclusions: According to our results, LOV appears to have a greater effect on viral assembly than on replication, resulting in the cellular presence of viral genomic RNA and proteins that fail to take the normal assembly pathway.
Changes in Central and Peripheral Circulation in Intrauterine Growth-Restricted Fetuses at Different Stages of Umbilical Artery Flow Deterioration: New Fetal Cardiac and Brain Parameters
Authors: Benavides-Serralde Andres , Scheier Matthias , Cruz-Martinez Rogelio , Crispi Fatima , Figueras Fransesc , Gratacós Eduard , Hernandez-Andrade Edgar
Published: June 2011

Objective: To evaluate changes in central and peripheral circulation, including new and standard parameters of the fetal brain and heart in fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) in relation to progressive deterioration of the umbilical artery (UA). Methods: Seventy-two IUGR fetuses were studied longitudinally. IUGR was defined as an estimated fetal weight <10th centile for gestational age. Fetuses were classified according the UA pulsatility index (PI) as: group 1, normal UA-PI (<95th centile; <1.645 z-scores), group 2, UA-PI (≧95th centile and <99th centile; ≧1.645 and <3 z-scores), group 3, UA absent end-diastolic flow, and group 4, UA reversed end-diastolic flow. Middle cerebral artery (MCA), anterior cerebral artery segments 1 (ACA1) and 2 (ACA2), aortic isthmus blood flow index (IFI), modified myocardial performance index (Mod-MPI), ductus venosus (DV), renal artery (RA), femoral artery (FA) and amniotic fluid index (AFI) were weekly evaluated until delivery. Results: A total of 263 scans were performed (median, 3 (range: 1–23) per patient). There were 6 intrauterine and 2 neonatal deaths. Although all cerebral arteries showed a reduction in the PI, ACA1 showed the earliest vasodilatation. From group 2 onwards, all cerebral vessels had a similar pattern of vasodilatation. Mod-MPI became abnormal at group 1 with no further changes. IFI and DV became constantly abnormal starting from group 2. No changes in the RA-PI or FA-PI were documented. Conclusion: The process of hemodynamic deterioration in IUGR fetuses seems to be earlier represented by the ACA1 and the Mod-MPI. Signs of further deterioration were observed in the DV, IFI and MCA. The peripheral blood in the RA and FA did not show any change. AFI showed a late deterioration process.
Treatment of Hepatitis B Virus-Associated Nephropathy
Authors: Elewa Usama , Sandri Ana Maria , Kim W. Ray , Fervenza Fernando C.
Published: June 2011

Epidemiological studies have shown a relationship between hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and development of proteinuria in some patients (most commonly children), with a predominance for male gender and histological findings of membranous nephropathy on renal biopsy. The presence of immune complexes in the kidney suggests an immune complex basis for the disease, but a direct relation between HBV and membranous nephropathy (or other types of glomerular diseases) remains to be proven. Clearance of HBV antigens, either spontaneous or following antiviral treatments results in improvement in proteinuria. Thus, prompt recognition and specific antiviral treatment are critical in managing patients with HBV and renal involvement. The present review focuses on treatment of HBV with special emphasis given to antiviral therapies, its complications, and dosing in patients with HBV-associated kidney disease.
Survival Analysis I: The Kaplan-Meier Method
Authors: Stel Vianda S. , Dekker Friedo W. , Tripepi Giovanni , Zoccali Carmine , Jager Kitty J.
Published: June 2011

The Kaplan-Meier (KM) method is used to analyze ‘time-to-event’ data. The outcome in KM analysis often includes all-cause mortality, but could also include other outcomes such as the occurrence of a cardiovascular event. The purpose of this article is to explain the basic concepts of the KM method, to provide some guidance regarding the presentation of the KM results and to discuss some important limitations of this method. To do this, we use a clinical example derived from the nephrology literature.
The Risk of Parkinson Disease Associated with Urate in a Community-Based Cohort of Older Adults
Authors: Jain S. , Ton T.G. , Boudreau R.M. , Yang M. , Thacker E.L. , Studenski S. , Longstreth, Jr. W.T. , Strotmeyer E.S. , Newman A.B.
Published: June 2011

Background/Aims: Studies suggest an inverse association between urate concentration and the risk of Parkinson disease (PD). We investigated this in the Cardiovascular Health Study in an elderly community-based cohort of adults. Methods: The association of baseline urate (µmol/l) and incident PD over 14 years was assessed with locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (LOESS) regression from which categories of low (<300 µmol/l), middle (300–500 µmol/l), and high (>500 µmol/l) urate ranges were derived. Multivariate logistic regression models assessed the risk of PD for each urate range. Linear and quadratic terms were tested when modeling the association between urate and the risk of PD. Results: Women had significantly lower urate concentrations than did men [316.8 µmol/l (SD 88.0) vs. 367.4 µmol/l (SD 87.7), p < 0.0001] and in women no associations between urate and PD risk were observed. In men, LOESS curves suggested a U-shaped or threshold effect between urate and PD risk. With the middle range as reference, the risk of developing PD was significantly increased for urate <300 µmol/l (OR 1.69, 95% CI 1.03–2.78) but not for urate >500 µmol/l (OR 1.55, 95% CI 0.72–3.32) in men. A negative linear term was significant for urate <500 µmol/l, and across the entire range a convex quadratic term was significant. Conclusions: Results suggest a more complex relationship than previously reported between urate levels and the risk of PD in men. Low urate concentrations were associated with a higher PD risk and high urate concentrations were not associated with a further decrease in PD risk.
Oscillatory Brain Activity in the Time Frequency Domain Associated to Change Blindness and Change Detection Awareness
Authors: Darriba Álvaro , Pazo-Álvarez Paula , Capilla Almudena , Amenedo Elena
Published: June 2011

Despite the importance of change detection (CD) for visual perception and for performance in our environment, observers often miss changes that should be easily noticed. In the present study, we employed time–frequency analysis to investigate the neural activity associated with CD and change blindness (CB). Observers were presented with two successive visual displays and had to look for a change in orientation in any one of four sinusoid gratings between both displays. Theta power increased widely over the scalp after the second display when a change was consciously detected. Relative to no-change and CD, CB was associated with a pronounced theta power enhancement at parietal-occipital and occipital sites and broadly distributed alpha power suppression during the processing of the prechange display. Finally, power suppressions in the beta band following the second display show that, even when a change is not consciously detected, it might be represented to a certain degree. These results show the potential of time–frequency analysis to deepen our knowledge of the temporal curse of the neural events underlying CD. The results further reveal that the process resulting in CB begins even before the occurrence of the change itself.
Prediction Error Associated with the Perceptual Segmentation of Naturalistic Events
Authors: Zacks Jeffrey M. , Kurby Christopher A. , Eisenberg Michelle L. , Haroutunian Nayiri
Published: June 2011

Predicting the near future is important for survival and plays a central role in theories of perception, language processing, and learning. Prediction failures may be particularly important for initiating the updating of perceptual and memory systems and, thus, for the subjective experience of events. Here, we asked observers to make predictions about what would happen 5 sec later in a movie of an everyday activity. Those points where prediction was more difficult corresponded with subjective boundaries in the stream of experience. At points of unpredictability, midbrain and striatal regions associated with the phasic release of the neurotransmitter dopamine transiently increased in activity. This activity could provide a global updating signal, cuing other brain systems that a significant new event has begun.
Influence of Aging on the Neural Correlates of Autobiographical, Episodic, and Semantic Memory Retrieval
Authors: St-Laurent Marie , Abdi Hervé , Burianová Hana , Grady Cheryl L.
Published: June 2011

We used fMRI to assess the neural correlates of autobiographical, semantic, and episodic memory retrieval in healthy young and older adults. Participants were tested with an event-related paradigm in which retrieval demand was the only factor varying between trials. A spatio-temporal partial least square analysis was conducted to identify the main patterns of activity characterizing the groups across conditions. We identified brain regions activated by all three memory conditions relative to a control condition. This pattern was expressed equally in both age groups and replicated previous findings obtained in a separate group of younger adults. We also identified regions whose activity differentiated among the different memory conditions. These patterns of differentiation were expressed less strongly in the older adults than in the young adults, a finding that was further confirmed by a barycentric discriminant analysis. This analysis showed an age-related dedifferentiation in autobiographical and episodic memory tasks but not in the semantic memory task or the control condition. These findings suggest that the activation of a common memory retrieval network is maintained with age, whereas the specific aspects of brain activity that differ with memory content are more vulnerable and less selectively engaged in older adults. Our results provide a potential neural mechanism for the well-known age differences in episodic/autobiographical memory, and preserved semantic memory, observed when older adults are compared with younger adults.
Automated Parameter Estimation of the Hodgkin-Huxley Model Using the Differential Evolution Algorithm: Application to Neuromimetic Analog Integrated Circuits
Authors: Buhry Laure , Grassia Filippo , Giremus Audrey , Grivel Eric , Renaud Sylvie , Saïghi Sylvain
Published: June 2011

We propose a new estimation method for the characterization of the Hodgkin-Huxley formalism. This method is an alternative technique to the classical estimation methods associated with voltage clamp measurements. It uses voltage clamp type recordings, but is based on the differential evolution algorithm. The parameters of an ionic channel are estimated simultaneously, such that the usual approximations of classical methods are avoided and all the parameters of the model, including the time constant, can be correctly optimized. In a second step, this new estimation technique is applied to the automated tuning of neuromimetic analog integrated circuits designed by our research group. We present a tuning example of a fast spiking neuron, which reproduces the frequency-current characteristics of the reference data, as well as the membrane voltage behavior. The final goal of this tuning is to interconnect neuromimetic chips as neural networks, with specific cellular properties, for future theoretical studies in neuroscience.
Invariant Object Recognition and Pose Estimation with Slow Feature Analysis
Authors: Franzius Mathias , Wilbert Niko , Wiskott Laurenz
Published: June 2011

Primates are very good at recognizing objects independent of viewing angle or retinal position, and they outperform existing computer vision systems by far. But invariant object recognition is only one prerequisite for successful interaction with the environment. An animal also needs to assess an object's position and relative rotational angle. We propose here a model that is able to extract object identity, position, and rotation angles. We demonstrate the model behavior on complex three-dimensional objects under translation and rotation in depth on a homogeneous background. A similar model has previously been shown to extract hippocampal spatial codes from quasi-natural videos. The framework for mathematical analysis of this earlier application carries over to the scenario of invariant object recognition. Thus, the simulation results can be explained analytically even for the complex high-dimensional data we employed.
Sino-Nepalese Relations
Authors: Koirala Bhaskar
Published: June 2011

This article argues that the intensity of Sino-Nepal relations over the past decade has witnessed a lack of consistency, attributable to shifting political conditions in Nepal. From 2000 to 2010, Nepal has experienced different political systems such as constitutional monarchy, absolute monarchy and currently a republican framework. However, Nepal’s espousal of the ‘one China’ policy, particularly as it concerns Tibet, has been steady and enduring, as has the logic that Sino-Nepal relations are not strictly ‘bilateral’ in nature but also potentially serve as a channel for Nepal to connect to a wider canvas including Central Asia, Southeast Asia and East Asia. It is also argued that to a large extent, Sino-Nepal relations are poised to be significantly affected by an evolving China–Nepal–India triangular relationship on account of Nepal’s geographic position. Effective consolidation of this triangular relationship is vital to ensure political stability in Nepal and therefore security for both China and India.
Sino-Bhutanese Relations
Authors: Kumar Pranav
Published: June 2011

Historically the interaction between Bhutan and China was through Tibet. The annexation of Tibet by China and the later uprising in Tibet instilled a sense of fear in Bhutan causing it to close its northern border in 1960. However, Bhutan adopted a more open policy in the 1970s gradually increasing the contacts between the two neighbours. Border talks which started in 1984 resulted in an agreement in 1998 on maintaining peace and tranquility along border areas. While China and Bhutan neither have diplomatic relations nor any legal trade, growing Chinese interests in South Asia encompass Bhutan as well. Bhutan, therefore, faces the dilemma of not hurting the interests and sentiments of its traditional friend India while at the same time needing to respond to Chinese overtures and to solve the border problem peacefully and urgently; in the Sino-Bhutanese relationship, the Indian element remains the most important variable. The dynamics of the Sino-Indian relationship and Indian and Chinese strategic interests and activities in the Himalayas will be crucial in shaping Bhutan’s policies towards China.
China and Myanmar
Authors: Narayanan Raviprasad
Published: June 2011

Three decades of economic reform have led to a comprehensive recasting of China’s geostrategic priorities in its immediate periphery. China’s relations with Myanmar are an instance of a bilateral relationship that has gone from strength to strength in the past two decades following internal political upheavals in the late 1980s that motivated the two countries to reach out to each other following international opprobrium. This article will explain the strategic nature of relations between Myanmar and China in the last decade and attempt to posit this equation in a South Asian context. The structure of the article includes includes four sections—the first section is a brief introduction that captures five decades of relations between Myanmar and China from 1950 to 2000; the second section examines the comprehensive nature of their bilateral relations; the third section analyses mutual perceptions; and the concluding section focuses on the impact China–Myanmar relations has on the South Asian region. There are two central arguments in this research article—the first revolves around the hypothesis that Myanmar–China relations are motivated by geo-strategic and geo-economic considerations. The second argument rests on the premise that there is no ‘client dependency’ in this bilateral relationship and China–Myanmar relations while ‘close’ and ‘friendly’ do have their share of concerns.
China in SAARC
Authors: Panda Jagannath P.
Published: June 2011

Crafting interregional cooperation that involves China as a participant has been the hallmark of Chinese foreign policy in recent times. Though the Chinese involvement in South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a statement of China’s adherence to the theory of multilateral practices; it is Beijing’s orderly contact with the SAARC members and systematic ‘good-neighbourhood’ policy that have fetched adequate space to China in South Asian politics today. Consequently, Beijing institutionalises the China–South Asia network through SAARC. In addition, the rise of China offers greater scope for both South Asia as a region and SAARC as an institution to expand and grow. Given the complexities that rising powers pose in global politics, it goes without mentioning that China in its affiliation to SAARC would aspire for a greater purpose in South Asia and that could shape the regional power politics in coming future.
Pattern-recognition Receptors in Pulp Defense
Authors: Staquet M.-J. , Carrouel F. , Keller J.-F. , Baudouin C. , Msika P. , Bleicher F. , Kufer T.A. , Farges J.-C.
Published: June 2011

Initial sensing of infection is mediated by germline-encoded pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs), the activation of which leads to the expression of inflammatory mediators responsible for the elimination of pathogens and infected cells. PRRs act as immune sensors that provide immediate cell responses to pathogen invasion or tissue injury. Here, we review the expression of PRRs in human dental pulp cells, namely, receptors from the Toll-like (TLR) and Nod-like NLR families, by which cells recognize bacteria. Particular attention is given to odontoblasts, which are the first cells encountered by pathogens and represent, in the tooth, the first line of defense for the host. Understanding cellular and molecular mechanisms associated with the recognition of bacterial pathogens by odontoblasts is critical for the development of therapeutic strategies that aim at preventing excessive pulp inflammation and related deleterious effects.
Pasireotide (SOM230), a Novel Multireceptor‐Targeted Somatostatin Analogue, Is Well Tolerated When Administered as a Continuous 7‐Day Subcutaneous Infusion in Healthy Male Volunteers
Authors: Petersenn Stephan , Unger Nicole , Hu Ke , Weisshaar Brigitte , Zhang Yilong , Bouillaud Emmanuel , Reséndiz Karina Hermosillo , Wang Yanfeng , Mann Klaus
Published: June 2011

Pasireotide is a novel multireceptor‐targeted somatostatin analogue that has shown efficacy in patients with acromegaly and Cushing's disease when administered by subcutaneous (SC) injection. This study assessed the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of a continuous infusion of pasireotide in healthy volunteers. In this single‐center, open‐label, dose escalation study, healthy male volunteers received a 7‐day continuous SC infusion of pasireotide in sequential ascending‐dose cohorts. Single and/or 8‐hour blood samples were taken on days 1 to 10 to assess PK and on days 1, 2, and 7 and a control day to assess glucose metabolism. Adverse events were evaluated throughout. Forty‐four participants were enrolled into 8 cohorts: pasireotide 450, 900, 1350, 1800 (3 cohorts were enrolled at this dose level), 2250, and 2025 μg/d. Doses were well tolerated up to 2025 μg/d. Adverse events were generally mild and gastrointestinal. Pasireotide steady‐state clearance was reduced at high doses, and plasma concentrations increased disproportionately with increasing dose. Blood glucose levels increased after initiation of pasireotide infusion with attenuation by day 7. Insulin and glucagon levels decreased after pasireotide infusion, with insulin levels exhibiting a greater degree of suppression. Pasireotide has the potential to be administered as a long‐acting release formulation, and future studies are warranted.
Clarifying Differences in Natural History between Models of Screening
Authors: van Ballegooijen Marjolein , Rutter Carolyn M. , Knudsen Amy B. , Zauber Ann G. , Savarino James E. , Lansdorp-Vogelaar Iris , Boer Rob , Feuer Eric J. , Habbema J. Dik F. , Kuntz Karen M.
Published: June 2011

Background. Microsimulation models are important decision support tools for screening. However, their complexity makes them difficult to understand and limits realization of their full potential. Therefore, it is important to develop documentation that clarifies their structure and assumptions. The authors demonstrate this problem and explore a solution for natural history using 3 independently developed colorectal cancer screening models. Methods. The authors first project effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of colonoscopy screening for the 3 models (CRC-SPIN, SimCRC, and MISCAN). Next, they provide a conventional presentation of each model, including information on structure and parameter values. Finally, they report the simulated reduction in clinical cancer incidence following a one-time complete removal of adenomas and preclinical cancers for each model. They call this new measure the maximum clinical incidence reduction (MCLIR). Results. Projected effectiveness varies widely across models. For example, estimated mortality reduction for colonoscopy screening every 10 years from age 50 to 80 years, with surveillance in adenoma patients, ranges from 65% to 92%. Given only conventional information, it is difficult to explain these differences, largely because differences in structure make parameter values incomparable. In contrast, the MCLIR clearly shows the impact of model differences on the key feature of natural history, the dwell time of preclinical disease. Dwell times vary from 8 to 25 years across models and help explain differences in projected screening effectiveness. Conclusions. The authors propose a new measure, the MCLIR, which summarizes the implications for predicted screening effectiveness of differences in natural history assumptions. Including the MCLIR in the standard description of a screening model would improve the transparency of these models.
Therapeutic effects of propolis essential oil on anxiety of restraint-stressed mice
Authors: Li Y-J , Xuan H-Z , Shou Q-Y , Zhan Z-G , Lu X , Hu F-L
Published: June 2011

Propolis has a broad spectrum of biological activities; however, whether its essential oils have neuroprotective effects is unknown. In this study, we found that propolis essential oil (PEO) could significantly reverse the anxiety-like behavior of restraint-stressed mice, and has no effect on locomotor activity. Furthermore, PEO significantly decreased the plasma levels of cortisol (CORT), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and malondialdehyde (MDA), whereas it increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in restraint-stressed mice. These results strongly suggest that PEO has therapeutic effects on anxiety through antagonizing the hyperfunction of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and improving the ability of antioxidation in brain tissue.
Mothers’ perceptions of introducing solids to their infant at six months of age: Identifying critical belief-based targets to promote adherence to current infant feeding guidelines
Authors: Hamilton Kyra , Daniels Lynne , Murray Nicole , White Katherine M. , Walsh Anne
Published: June 2011

We investigated critical belief-based targets for promoting the introduction of solid foods to infants at six months. First-time mothers ( N = 375) completed a Theory of Planned Behaviour belief-based questionnaire and follow-up questionnaire assessing the age the infant was first introduced to solids. Normative beliefs about partner/spouse (β = 0.16) and doctor (β = 0.22), and control beliefs about commercial baby foods available for infants before six months (β = −0.20), predicted introduction of solids at six months. Intervention programs should target these critical beliefs to promote mothers’ adherence to current infant feeding guidelines to introduce solids at around six months.
‘I Did It for Him, Not for Me’: An Exploratory Study of Factors Influencing Sexual Debut among Female University Students in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Akintola Olagoke , Ngubane Lungile , Makhaba Luvuyo
Published: June 2011

We used qualitative interviews to explore the influences on first sexual intercourse among 10 young women who had sexual debut within a year of enrolling in the university. University culture of sexual permissiveness and pressure from sexually experienced friends and male partners were the main factors influencing sexual debut. Ambivalence and a range of coercive behaviours characterized first sex. Participants were unprepared for sex and lacked power in deciding the timing and circumstances of first sex resulting in physical and emotional pain and regret. Interventions should address the risks of first sex among students in institutions of higher learning.
Effect of language proficiency and degree of formal training in simultaneous interpreting on working memory and interpreting performance: Evidence from Mandarin–English speakers
Authors: Tzou Yeh-Zu , Eslami Zohreh R. , Chen Hsin-Chin , Vaid Jyotsna
Published: June 2011

The influence of second language proficiency and length of formal training in interpretation on simultaneous interpreting (SI) performance and working memory was examined in Mandarin–English student interpreters with one year ( n = 11) or two years of formal training in interpretation ( n = 9) and in 16 Mandarin–English untrained bilingual controls. SI performance was significantly better in Year 2 than in Year 1 student interpreters, and in Year 1 interpreters relative to bilingual controls. SI performance was also better in advanced L2 users and in high-memory span individuals, whether trained or not in SI. Both Year 1 and Year 2 students outperformed bilingual controls in L1 and L2 reading span. Although Year 2 students tended to show higher working memory span than Year 1 students, the difference was not significant. Finally, working memory span was higher in individuals with greater L2 proficiency. It is concluded that differences in language proficiency may underlie observed differences in both interpreting performance and working memory and that language processing skills (rather than working memory) may be enhanced by formal training in interpreting.
How I treat adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma
Authors: Bazarbachi Ali , Suarez Felipe , Fields Paul , Hermine Olivier
Published: June 2011

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) is an aggressive malignancy of mature activated T cells caused by human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I. ATL carries a bad prognosis because of intrinsic chemoresistance and severe immunosuppression. In acute ATL, Japanese trials demonstrated that although combinations of chemotherapy improved response rate, they failed to achieve a significant impact on survival. Patients with chronic and smoldering ATL have a better prognosis, but long-term survival is poor when these patients are managed with a watchful-waiting policy or with chemotherapy. Recently, a worldwide meta-analysis revealed that the combination of zidovudine and IFN-α is highly effective in the leukemic subtypes of ATL and should be considered as standard first-line therapy in that setting. This combination has changed the natural history of the disease through achievement of significantly improved long-term survival in patients with smoldering and chronic ATL as well as a subset of patients with acute ATL. ATL lymphoma patients still benefit from chemotherapy induction with concurrent or sequential antiretroviral therapy with zidovudine/IFN. To prevent relapse, clinical trials assessing consolidative targeted therapies such as arsenic/IFN combination or novel monoclonal antibodies are needed. Finally, allogeneic BM transplantation should be considered in suitable patients.
Structure and epitope distribution of heparan sulfate is disrupted in experimental lung hypoplasia: a glycobiological epigenetic cause for malformation?
Authors: Thompson Sophie M , Connell Marilyn G , van Kuppevelt Toin H , Xu Ruoyan , Turnbull Jeremy E , Losty Paul D , Fernig David G , Jesudason Edwin C
Published: June 2011

Background

Heparan sulfate (HS) is present on the surface of virtually all mammalian cells and is a major component of the extracellular matrix (ECM), where it plays a pivotal role in cell-cell and cell-matrix cross-talk through its large interactome. Disruption of HS biosynthesis in mice results in neonatal death as a consequence of malformed lungs, indicating that HS is crucial for airway morphogenesis. Neonatal mortality (~50%) in newborns with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is principally associated with lung hypoplasia and pulmonary hypertension. Given the importance of HS for lung morphogenesis, we investigated developmental changes in HS structure in normal and hypoplastic lungs using the nitrofen rat model of CDH and semi-synthetic bacteriophage ('phage) display antibodies, which identify distinct HS structures.

Results

The pulmonary pattern of elaborated HS structures is developmentally regulated. For example, the HS4E4V epitope is highly expressed in sub-epithelial mesenchyme of E15.5 - E17.5 lungs and at a lower level in more distal mesenchyme. However, by E19.5, this epitope is expressed similarly throughout the lung mesenchyme.

We also reveal abnormalities in HS fine structure and spatiotemporal distribution of HS epitopes in hypoplastic CDH lungs. These changes involve structures recognised by key growth factors, FGF2 and FGF9. For example, the EV3C3V epitope, which was abnormally distributed in the mesenchyme of hypoplastic lungs, is recognised by FGF2.

Conclusions

The observed spatiotemporal changes in HS structure during normal lung development will likely reflect altered activities of many HS-binding proteins regulating lung morphogenesis. Abnormalities in HS structure and distribution in hypoplastic lungs can be expected to perturb HS:protein interactions, ECM microenvironments and crucial epithelial-mesenchyme communication, which may contribute to lung dysmorphogenesis. Indeed, a number of epitopes correlate with structures recognised by FGFs, suggesting a functional consequence of the observed changes in HS in these lungs. These results identify a novel, significant molecular defect in hypoplastic lungs and reveals HS as a potential contributor to hypoplastic lung development in CDH. Finally, these results afford the prospect that HS-mimetic therapeutics could repair defective signalling in hypoplastic lungs, improve lung growth, and reduce CDH mortality.
Genetic structure of the Mon-Khmer speaking groups and their affinity to the neighbouring Tai populations in Northern Thailand
Authors: Kutanan Wibhu , Kampuansai Jatupol , Fuselli Silvia , Nakbunlung Supaporn , Seielstad Mark , Bertorelle Giorgio , Kangwanpong Daoroong
Published: June 2011

Background

The Mon-Khmer speaking peoples inhabited northern Thailand before the arrival of the Tai speaking people from southern China in the thirteenth century A.D. Historical and anthropological evidence suggests a close relationship between the Mon-Khmer groups and the present day majority northern Thai groups. In this study, mitochondrial and Y-chromosomal DNA polymorphisms in more than 800 volunteers from eight Mon-Khmer and ten Tai speaking populations were investigated to estimate the degree of genetic divergence between these major linguistic groups and their internal structure.

Results

A large fraction of genetic variation is observed within populations (about 80% and 90% for mtDNA and the Y-chromosome, respectively). The genetic divergence between populations is much higher in Mon-Khmer than in Tai speaking groups, especially at the paternally inherited markers. The two major linguistic groups are genetically distinct, but only for a marginal fraction (1 to 2%) of the total genetic variation. Genetic distances between populations correlate with their linguistic differences, whereas the geographic distance does not explain the genetic divergence pattern.

Conclusions

The Mon-Khmer speaking populations in northern Thailand exhibited the genetic divergence among each other and also when compared to Tai speaking peoples. The different drift effects and the post-marital residence patterns between the two linguistic groups are the explanation for a small but significant fraction of the genetic variation pattern within and between them.
Microcirculatory changes during open label magnesium sulphate infusion in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock
Authors: Pranskunas Andrius , Vellinga Namkje AR , Pilvinis Vidas , Koopmans Matty , Boerma E Christiaan
Published: June 2011

Background

Microcirculatory alterations play a pivotal role in sepsis and persist despite correction of systemic hemodynamic parameters. Therefore it seems tempting to test specific pro-microcirculatory strategies, including vasodilators, to attenuate impaired organ perfusion. As opposed to nitric oxide donors, magnesium has both endothelium-dependent and non-endothelium-dependent vasodilatory pathways.

Methods

In a single-center open label study we evaluated the effects of magnesium sulphate (MgS) infusion on the sublingual microcirculation perfusion in fluid resuscitated patients with severe sepsis and septic shock within the first 48 hours after ICU admission. Directly prior to and after 1 hour of magnesium sulphate (MgS) infusion (2 gram) systemic hemodynamic variables, sublingual SDF images and standard laboratory tests, were obtained.

Results

Fourteen patients (12 septic shock, 2 severe sepsis) with a median APACHE II score of 20 were enrolled. No significant difference of the systemic hemodynamic variables was found between baseline and after MgS infusion. We did not observe any significant difference pre and post MgS infusion in the primary endpoint microvascular flow index (MFI) of small vessels: 2.25(1.98-2.69) vs. 2.33(1.96-2.62), p = 0.65. Other variables of microcirculatory perfusion were also unaltered. In the overall unchanged microvascular perfusion there was a non-significant trend to an inverse linear relationship between the changes of MFI and its baseline value (y = -0.7260 × + 1.629, r2 = 0.270, p = 0.057). The correlation between baseline Mg concentrations and the change in MFI pre- and post MgS infusion was non-significant (rs = -0.165, p = 0.67).

Conclusions

In the setting of severe sepsis and septic shock sublingual microcirculatory alterations were observed despite fulfillment of sepsis resuscitation guidelines. After infusion of a limited and fixed dose of MgS, microcirculatory perfusion did not improve over time.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NTC01332734.
Gastronet survey on the use of one- or two-person technique for colonoscopy insertion
Authors: Hoff Geir , Volker Moritz , Bretthauer Michael , Aabakken Lars , Høie Ole , deLange Thomas , Berset Ingrid , Kjellevold Øystein , Glomsaker Tom , Huppertz-Hauss Gert , Lange Ove , Sandvei Per
Published: June 2011

Background

Usually, colonoscopy insertion is performed by the colonoscopist (one-person technique). Quite common in the early days of endoscopy, the assisting nurse is now only rarely doing the insertion (two-person technique). Using the Norwegian national endoscopy quality assurance (QA) programme, Gastronet, we wanted to explore the extent of two-person technique practice and look into possible differences in performance and QA output measures.

Methods

100 colonoscopists in 18 colonoscopy centres having reported their colonoscopies to Gastronet between January and December 2009 were asked if they practiced one- or two-person technique during insertion of the colonoscope. They were categorized accordingly for comparative analyses of QA indicators.

Results

75 endoscopists responded to the survey (representing 9368 colonoscopies) - 62 of them (83%) applied one-person technique and 13 (17%) two-person technique. Patients age and sex distributions and indications for colonoscopy were also similar in the two groups. Caecal intubation was 96% in the two-person group compared to 92% in the one-person group (p < 0.001). Pain reports were similar in the groups, but time to the caecum was shorter and the use of sedation less in the two-person group.

Conclusion

Two-person technique for colonoscope insertion was practiced by a considerable minority of endoscopists (17%). QA indicators were either similar to or better than one-person technique. This suggests that there may be some beneficial elements to this technique worth exploring and try to import into the much preferred one-person insertion technique.
The effect of a manual instrumentation technique on five types of premolar root canal geometry assessed by microcomputed tomography and three-dimensional reconstruction
Authors: Li Ke-Zeng , Gao Yuan , Zhang Ru , Hu Tao , Guo Bin
Published: June 2011

Background

Together with diagnosis and treatment planning, a good knowledge of the root canal system and its frequent variations is a necessity for successful root canal therapy. The selection of instrumentation techniques for variants in internal anatomy of teeth has significant effects on the shaping ability and cleaning effectiveness. The aim of this study was to reveal the differences made by including variations in the internal anatomy of premolars into the study protocol for investigation of a single instrumentation technique (hand ProTaper instruments) assessed by microcomputed tomography and three-dimensional reconstruction.

Methods

Five single-root premolars, whose root canal systems were classified into one of five types, were scanned with micro-CT before and after preparation with a hand ProTaper instrument. Instrumentation characteristics were measured quantitatively in 3-D using a customized application framework based on MeVisLab. Numeric values were obtained for canal surface area, volume, volume changes, percentage of untouched surface, dentin wall thickness, and the thickness of dentin removed. Preparation errors were also evaluated using a color-coded reconstruction.

Results

Canal volumes and surface areas were increased after instrumentation. Prepared canals of all five types were straightened, with transportation toward the inner aspects of S-shaped or multiple curves. However, a ledge was formed at the apical third curve of the type II canal system and a wide range in the percentage of unchanged canal surfaces (27.4-83.0%) was recorded. The dentin walls were more than 0.3 mm thick except in a 1 mm zone from the apical surface and the hazardous area of the type II canal system after preparation with an F3 instrument.

Conclusions

The 3-D color-coded images showed different morphological changes in the five types of root canal systems shaped with the same hand instrumentation technique. Premolars are among the most complex teeth for root canal treatment and instrumentation techniques for the root canal systems of premolars should be selected individually depending on the 3-D canal configuration of each tooth. Further study is needed to demonstrate the differences made by including variations in the internal anatomy of teeth into the study protocol of clinical RCT for identifying the best preparation technique.
Electronic feedback in a diet- and physical activity-based lifestyle intervention for weight loss: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Shuger Sara L , Barry Vaughn W , Sui Xuemei , McClain Amanda , Hand Gregory A , Wilcox Sara , Meriwether Rebecca A , Hardin James W , Blair Steven N
Published: June 2011

Background

The SenseWear™ Armband (SWA) (BodyMedia, Inc. Pittsburgh, PA) is a physical activity and lifestyle monitor that objectively and accurately measures free-living energy balance and sleep and includes software for self-monitoring of daily energy expenditure and energy intake. The real-time feedback of the SWA can improve individual self-monitoring and, therefore, enhance weight loss outcomes.

Methods

We recruited 197 sedentary overweight or obese adults (age, 46.8 ± 10.8 y; body mass index (BMI), 33.3 ± 5.2 kg/m2; 81% women, 32% African-American) from the greater Columbia, South Carolina area. Participants were randomized into 1 of 4 groups, a self-directed weight loss program via an evidence-based weight loss manual (Standard Care, n = 50), a group-based behavioral weight loss program (GWL, n = 49), the armband alone (SWA-alone, n = 49), or the GWL plus the armband (GWL+SWA, n = 49), during the 9-month intervention. The primary outcome was change in body weight and waist circumference. A mixed-model repeated-measures analysis compared change in the intervention groups to the standard care group on weight and waist circumference status after adjusting for age, sex, race, education, energy expenditure, and recruitment wave.

Results

Body weight was available for 62% of participants at 9 months (52% standard care, 70% intervention). There was significant weight loss in all 3 intervention groups (GWL, 1.86 kg, P = 0.05; SWA-alone, 3.55 kg, P = 0.0002; GWL+SWA, 6.59 kg, P < 0.0001) but not in the Standard Care group (0.89 kg, P = 0.39) at month 9. Only the GWL+SWA group achieved significant weight loss at month 9 compared to the Standard Care group (P = 0.04). Significant waist circumference reductions were achieved in all 4 groups at month 9 (Standard Care, 3.49 cm, P = 0.0004; GWL, 2.42 cm, P = 0.008; SWA-alone, 3.59 cm, P < 0.0001; GWL+SWA, 6.77 cm, P < 0.0001), but no intervention group had significantly reduced waist circumference compared to the Standard Care group.

Conclusions

Continuous self-monitoring from wearable technology with real-time feedback may be particularly useful to enhance lifestyle changes that promote weight loss in sedentary overweight or obese adults. This strategy, combined with a group-based behavioral intervention, may yield optimal weight loss.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT00957008