bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional status, gender and marital status in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Odencrants Sigrid , Bjuström Tomas , Wiklund Nils , Blomberg Karin
Published: May 2013

Aim and objectives

To describe and compare nutritional status, pulmonary function, gender and marital status in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a chronic illness that can lead to poor nutritional status due to an increased energy requirements related to laboured breathing. Inadequate nutritional intake has often been described in this patient group. Nutritional support for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who suffer from nutritional problems is essential, both for their sense of well‐being and for their survival with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Design

The study design was descriptive and comparative.

Methods

Quantitative data collection was carried out among 81 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (47 women and 34 men) with an average age of 65 years (SD 3·5). The Mini Nutritional Assessment was used to assess nutritional status.

Results

Participants who lived alone had worse nutritional status than those who did not live alone, and female participants had worse nutritional status than their male counterparts. No significant correlation was found between pulmonary function and nutritional status.

Conclusions

This study contributes knowledge of a potential correlation between nutritional status, gender and marital status in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Women with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may be at an increased risk of malnutrition. Despite the previous results showing malnutrition and underweight to be common, the present study found that many of the participants were overweight, which may reflect a global health trend regardless of disease.

Relevance to clinical practice

Early identification of patients at risk of malnutrition is important. Registered nurses should be aware that patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who are female or who live alone may be at an increased risk of nutritional problems. Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease must be offered information and support for individually adapted measures at an early stage in order to avoid nutritional problems, regardless of under‐ and overweight.
Heart failure in patients treated with bisphosphonates
Authors: Grove E. L. , Abrahamsen B. , Vestergaard P.
Published: May 2013

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of heart failure in patients treated with bisphosphonates.

Design

In this nationwide retrospective cohort study from Denmark, all users of bisphosphonates and raloxifene between 1996 and 2006 (n = 102 342) were included in the ‘exposed’ group and three age‐ and gender‐matched subjects (n = 307.026) from the general population comprised the control group. The risk of heart failure was estimated by Cox proportional hazard analyses.

Results

The mean follow‐up times were 2.8, 5.5 and 4.9 years for alendronate‐, etidronate‐ and raloxifene‐treated patients, respectively. The absolute risk of heart failure was 4.4% in the exposed group and 3.7% in the control group (P < 0.01). The relative risk (RR) of heart failure was significantly increased in users of bisphophonates: crude RR 1.71 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.63–1.79]; adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.41 (95% CI 1.34–1.48). By comparison, raloxifene, which is used for the same indication but has a different mechanism of action, was not associated with an increased risk of heart failure: adjusted HR 1.07 (95% CI 0.76–1.50). When the two most commonly used bisphosphonates, alendronate and etidronate, were analysed separately, significant trends in the risk of heart failure were observed across refill compliance strata. The risk of heart failure increased significantly with increasing refill compliance for etidronate (P for trend <0.01), whereas it decreased for alendronate (P for trend <0.01).

Conclusions

Bisphosphonate users were at increased risk of heart failure compared to age‐ and gender‐matched control subjects. However, users of alendronate showed a dose‐dependent reduction in this risk, suggesting that alendronate may reduce the risk of heart failure.
Effects of celecoxib treatment over the AKT pathway in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Abrahão Aline Corrêa , Giudice Fernanda Salgueiredo , Sperandio Felipe Fornias , Pinto Junior Décio dos Santos
Published: May 2013

Background

Celecoxib, a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug that selectively inhibits cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), has shown an important anticarcinogenic effect for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma. The use of COX‐2 inhibitors has effectively inhibited the growth of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines, while a recent phase 1 trial demonstrated good response rate of cancer cells to this drug with minimal toxicity. Possible targets of celecoxib include proteins involved in cell proliferation and apoptosis control. Additionally, celecoxib antitumoral activity has been linked with a COX‐2‐independent event.

Methods

To better understand which cellular mechanisms are targeted by celecoxib, its effects upon the Akt signaling pathway using two different HNSCC cell lines were analyzed through cell viability assay, immunofluorescence, and Western blotting.

Results

The results showed decreased levels of Cyclin D1 and pAkt protein expression in vitro. The number of viable cells was also diminished after celecoxib treatment.

Conclusion

As Akt pathway seems to be a valuable target for the HNSCC therapy, the results presented herein confirm that celecoxib can be considered as an alternative adjuvant drug for HNSCC treatment.
Pluronic F127-modified liposome-containing tacrolimus–cyclodextrin inclusion complexes: improved solubility, cellular uptake and intestinal penetration
Authors: Zhu Quanlei , Guo Tao , Xia Dengning , Li Xiuying , Zhu Chunliu , Li Haiyan , Ouyang Defang , Zhang Jiwen , Gan Yong
Published: May 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate Pluronic F127-modified liposome-containing cyclodextrin (CD) inclusion complex (FLIC) for improving the solubility, cellular uptake and intestinal penetration of tacrolimus (FK 506) in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Methods

Molecular modelling was performed to screen the optimal CD for the solubilization of FK 506. FLIC was prepared by thin-lipid film hydration with the inclusion complex solutions followed by membrane extrusion. Dilution tests were conducted in simulated gastric fluids and phosphate-buffered solution of sodium taurocholate to investigate the solubility improvement of FK506. The cellular uptake of nanocarriers was studied in Caco-2 cells, and intestinal mucous membrane penetration in the GI tract was evaluated in Sprague–Dawley rats.

Key findings

The results showed that β-CD had the strongest binding energy with the guest molecule among the CDs. The prepared FLIC has an average diameter of 180.8 ± 8.1 nm with a spherical shape. The solubility and cellular uptake of FK 506 was greatly improved by the incorporation of CD complexes in the Pluronic F127-modified liposomes. Intestinal mucous membrane penetration was also significantly improved by the preparation of FLIC.

Conclusion

With improved drug solubility and intestinal mucous membrane penetration, FLIC shows a promising oral delivery system for FK 506.
Effects of lactulose supplementation on performance, blood profiles, excreta microbial shedding ofLactobacillusandEscherichia coli, relative organ weight and excreta noxious gas contents in broilers
Authors: Cho J. H. , Kim I. H.
Published: May 2013

This study was to evaluate the effects of lactulose supplementation on performance, blood profiles, excreta microbial shedding ofLactobacillusandEscherichia coli,relative organ weight and excreta noxious gas contents in broilers. A total of 720ROSS308 broilers with a body weight of 46 ± 0.1 g (1 day of age) were used in a 28‐d experiment. Broilers were randomly allotted to 4 experiment diets with 12 replicate pens and 15 birds per pen. Dietary treatments were as follows:NC, negative control (without antibiotic);PC,NC+ 0.1% tiamulin; L1,NC+ 0.1% lactulose; and L2,NC+ 0.2% lactulose. Broilers were fed with phase 1 (1–8 day), phase 2 (9–18 day) and phase 3 (19–28 day) diets in the form of mash. During day 1–8, broilers fed thePCand L2 diets had higher (p < 0.05) body weight gain than those fed theNCdiet. During day 19–28, broilers fed the L1 and L2 diets had lower (p < 0.05) feed intake than those fed theNCdiet. The feed conversion ratio (FCR) was decreased (p < 0.05) in L1 treatment compared withNCtreatment. Overall, theFCRwas improved (p < 0.05) in all supplementation treatments compared withNCtreatment. The apparently metabolizable nitrogen in L1 treatment was higher (p < 0.05) than that inNCtreatment at day 28. The excretaLactobacilluswas increased andE. coliwas decreased inPCand L2 treatments compared withNCtreatment at day 28 (p < 0.05). The excretaNH3, H2S and acetic acid contents were decreased (p < 0.05) in L1 and L2 treatments compared withNCtreatment. The relative weight of abdominal fat of broilers fed thePCdiet was lowest (p < 0.05) compared with other treatments. In conclusion, this study indicated that dietary supplementation of 0.1% or 0.2% lactulose could improve growth performance, decrease excretaE. coliand excretaNH3and H2S contents.
Cigarette smoke inhalation increases the alveolar bone loss caused by primary occlusal trauma in a rat model
Authors: Campos M. L. G. , Corrêa M. G. , Júnior F. H. N. , Casati M. Z. , Sallum E. A. , Sallum A. W.
Published: May 2013

Background and Objective

Occlusal trauma (OT) and smoking are both factors that alter alveolar bone metabolism and therefore could synergistically act on alveolar bone loss. The aim of this experimental study was to evaluate the influence of short‐term cigarette smoke inhalation (CSI) on inter‐radicular alveolar bone loss promoted by primary OT in a rat model.

Material and Methods

Forty‐eight animals were randomly assigned to one of three groups based on treatment type: OT + CSI (n = 16), animals were exposed to CSI three times per day, for 8 min per exposure, and they concomitantly received unilateral vertical augmentation creating an occlusal interference inducing experimental OT; OT (n = 16), animals received only unilateral vertical augmentation; negative control (NC; n = 16), animals maintained for equal periods to achieve periodontal baseline values of periodontal ligament dimension. Each group was divided into two subgroups (n = 8) based on treatment length: 7 or 14 d.

Results

After 7 d, the OT + CSI group exhibited significantly higher bone loss compared to the NC group (p = 0.0022). After 14 d, the OT (p < 0.0001) and OT + CSI (p < 0.0001) groups presented significantly higher bone loss compared to the NC group, and OT + CSI resulted in significantly higher bone loss than OT alone (p = 0.0241). The number of tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase‐positive cells on the linear surface of the bone crest after 7 d was significantly higher in the OT + CSI group as compared to the NC and OT groups (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0045, respectively) and remained significantly higher in the OT + CSI group after 14 d, compared to the OT group (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Short‐term CSI increases early bone loss in association with OT after 7 d, and this worsens in severity after 14 d of exposure.
Preoperative Erectile Function is an Independent Predictor for Decision to Spare Cavernous Nerves During Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Stember Doron S. , Nelson Christian J. , Mulhall John P.
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Cavernous nerve sparing (NS) is critical for recovery of erectile function (EF) as well as erectile tissue preservation following radical prostatectomy (RP). Clinical experience suggests that surgeons may opt for non-NS RP in patients with impaired baseline EF.

Aim

This study was performed to define if baseline EF is an independent predictor of NS status during RP.

Methods

A total of 2,323 mean (mean age 59 ± 7 years) who underwent RP at a tertiary referral academic medical center were retrospectively evaluated. Patients who underwent preoperative radiation therapy or androgen deprivation treatment were excluded.

Main Outcome Measures

Preoperative parameters evaluated included biopsy pathological characteristics, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, patient age, and EF. Baseline EF was graded on a validated five-point patient reported scale. NSS was graded intraoperatively by the surgeon, using a four-point NS score assigned to each nerve where 1 = fully preserved, 2 = partially preserved, 3 = minimally preserved, and 4 = resected. NS surgery was defined as NSS of 1 or 2 on both sides, and nerve resection surgery was defined as NSS of 3 or greater on both sides.

Results

On univariate analysis, factors related to nerve resection surgery included (all P < 0.01): increasing age (r = 0.16), Gleason score (r = 0.19), EF score (r = 0.21), percentage biopsy cores positive (r = 0.11), higher preoperative PSA (relative risk [RR] 1.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.23–2.40), and clinical stage ≥T2 (RR 2.17, 95% CI 1.68–2.78). On multivariable analysis, factors independently predicting for non-NS surgery included (all P < 0.01): baseline EF (odds ratio [OR] 1.50, 95% CI 1.33–1.68), biopsy Gleason sum (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.65–2.36), clinical T stage ≥T2 (OR 1.59, 95% CI 1.15–2.20), patient age (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.04–1.09), and percentage of biopsy cores positive (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00–1.02).

Conclusions

While unfavorable clinical and prostate biopsy characteristics predict less NS, we have shown that poorer baseline EF also independently predicts for nerve resection RP. For every point increase in EF score (that is, worsening EF) the odds of not receiving NS during surgery increase by a factor of 1.5. Although NS is not associated with worse cancer outcomes in appropriately selected patients, failure to spare nerves is associated with poor post-operative EF, urinary continence, and increased severity of cavernous venous leak. Patient anxiety related to cancer diagnosis and impending treatment may lead to falsely-worsened apparent EF when recent erections are assessed during a pre-operative planning visit. For these reasons prostatectomists should consider NS based solely on factors other than patient's baseline EF, even when it is impaired.
The Development and Validation of a Brief Quality of Sexual Experience (QSE) Scale: Results from a Nationally Representative Sample of Men and Women in the United States
Authors: Sanders Stephanie A. , Herbenick Debby , Reece Michael , Schick Vanessa , Mullinax Margo , Dodge Brian , Fortenberry J. Dennis
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Much scientific research focuses on assessing and understanding individuals' perceptions of sexual pleasure, enjoyment and satisfaction. Many existing measures of pleasure and satisfaction provide valuable information but are limited in their ability to assess event-level quality.

Aims

To develop a scale for measuring the event-level quality of a sexual experience that could be used regardless of the age, gender, sexual orientation, and relationship status of the individual and across sexual activity types.

Methods

Interviews about the measurement of sexual quality and pleasure were conducted with 15 experts in the field of sexual health and informed the development of an event-level scale to measure the quality of sexual experiences. Scale items were administered to a cross-sectional nationally representative probability survey of Americans ages 18 to 60.

Main Outcome Measures

Socio-demographic items; Quality of Sexual Experience (QSE) scale items; event-level items related to overall sexual quality (“Quality item”), comparison to other sexual events (“Comparison item”), and orgasm (“Orgasm item”).

Results

QSE scores were significantly correlated with responses to the Quality Item (r = 0.901, P < 0.001 for both women and men). Better experiences were associated with significantly higher QSE scores than were worse experiences; significant linear relationships were found for both women (GLM F[4,1461] = 129.46, P < 0.001) and men (GLM F[4,864] = 71.84, P < 0.001). QSE scores were significantly related to responses on the Orgasm Item for women [F[3,1430] = 246.53, P < 0.001] and men [F[3,858] = 117.24, P < 0.001].

Conclusions

The QSE scale is a valid and reliable event-level measure of the quality of a sexual experience in both women and men with outstanding psychometric properties. Clinical and research implications are discussed.
Peyronie's Disease among Men Who Have Sex with Men: Characteristics, Treatment, and Psychosocial Factors
Authors: Farrell Michael Ryan , Corder Christopher J. , Levine Laurence A.
Published: May 2013

Introduction

We describe the characteristics of Peyronie's disease (PD) and its associated psychosocial implications in men who have sex with men (MSM).

Aim

The aims of this article are to identify presenting characteristics and treatment for MSM with PD, compare these findings to non-MSM PD patients, and determine the psychosocial impact of PD among MSM.

Main Outcome Measures

Subjective and objective presenting characteristics, MSM psychosocial factors.

Methods

We identified 27 MSM with PD presenting from 2000 to 2012 through a retrospective chart review. A random selection of 200 non-MSM PD patients was identified, who presented during the same time period. A prospective nonvalidated questionnaire was given to MSM PD patients for evaluation of psychosocial constructs.

Results

A traumatic event leading to activation of PD was identified equally among MSM and non-MSM (P = 0.815). Most common recognized activators of PD among MSM were: penetrative sexual intercourse (22.2%), self-stimulation (11.1%). More MSM presented with the primary complaint of penile deformity, including narrowing, indentation, hourglass, and hinge (11.1% MSM vs. 1.0% non-MSM, P = 0.01). No differences in total curvature, erection grade were found (P > 0.05). PD had a negative effect on emotional status (89.0% MSM, 80.5% non-MSM, P > 0.05) and intimate relationships (45.0% MSM, 64.0% non-MSM, P > 0.05). Nonsurgical treatment was given to 88.9% MSM and 76.5% non-MSM (P > 0.05), and corrective surgery in 29.6% MSM and 25.0% non-MSM (P > 0.05). Of the 75.0% of MSM engaging in anal sex, 41.7% reported penetrative anal intercourse as the activator of PD. Among MSM, 31.3% experienced decreased libido, 50.0% decreased frequency of sexual activity, 92.9% were self-conscious about the appearance of their penis, and 92.9% were dissatisfied with the size of their penis.

Conclusions

Few differences exist in the clinical presentation and treatments used between MSM and non-MSM PD patients. There was evidence of emotional distress in both groups. As a result, psychosexual assessment and treatment, when indicated, should be considered essential to the patient presenting with PD.
A novel mutation within a transmembrane helix of the bile salt export pump (BSEP,ABCB11) with delayed development of cirrhosis
Authors: Stindt Jan , Ellinger Philipp , Weissenberger Katrin , Dröge Carola , Herebian Diran , Mayatepek Ertan , Homey Bernhard , Braun Stephan , Schulte am Esch Jan , Horacek Michael , Canbay Ali , Schmitt Lutz , Häussinger Dieter , Kubitz Ralf
Published: May 2013

Background & Aims

The bile salt export pump (BSEP, ABCB11) is essential for bile salt secretion at the canalicular membrane of liver cells. Clinical phenotypes associated with BSEP mutations are commonly categorized as benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis (BRIC‐2) or progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC‐2).

Methods

The molecular basis of BSEP‐associated liver disease in a sibling pair was characterized by immunostaining, gene sequencing, bile salt analysis and recombinant expression in mammalian cells and yeast for localization and in vitro activity studies respectively.

Results

Benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis was considered in a brother and sister who both suffered from intermittent cholestasis since childhood. Gene sequencing of ABCB11 identified the novel missense mutation p.G374S, which is localized in the putative sixth transmembrane helix of BSEP. Liver fibrosis was present in the brother at the age of 18 with progression to cirrhosis within 3 years. Immunofluorescence of liver tissue showed clear canalicular BSEP expression; however, biliary concentration of bile salts was drastically reduced. In line with these in vivo findings, HEK293 cells showed regular membrane targeting of human BSEPG374S, whereas in vitro transport measurements revealed a strongly reduced transport activity.

Conclusions

The novel mutation p.G374S impairs transport function without disabling membrane localization of BSEP. While all other known BSEP mutations within transmembrane helices are associated with PFIC‐2, the new p.G374S mutation causes a transitional phenotype between BRIC‐2 and PFIC‐2.
Folic acid fortification of wheat flour: A cost‐effective public health intervention to prevent birth defects in Europe
Authors: Pachón H. , Kancherla V. , Handforth B. , Tyler V. , Bauwens L.
Published: May 2013

Neural tube defects (NTDs) annually affect an estimated 320 000 newborns worldwide. Folic acid (FA), provided through supplementation and fortification, is an effective primary‐prevention strategy for NTDs if consumed in the periconceptional period. However, the potential impact of FA supplementation is tempered by low compliance. Countries that mandate FA fortification of wheat flour report an average reduction of 46% in NTD birth prevalence and favourable benefit : cost ratios of 12–48:1. Despite the well‐documented benefits of fortification and the new evidence that provides a better understanding of purported risks associated with FA, European countries have yet to embrace this public health initiative. Viable primary‐prevention strategies are needed given that an estimated 4500 NTDs occur in the 27 countries of the European Union annually, of which 72% end in terminations. Many existing factors will facilitate the success of FA flour fortification programs in the region: widespread consumption of wheat‐based products, a technologically advanced milling industry, experience adhering to and monitoring food safety measures, and familiarity with mandatory food fortification.
Relevance of food‐based dietary guidelines to food and nutrition security: A South African perspective
Authors: Schönfeldt H. C. , Hall N. , Bester M.
Published: May 2013

Food‐based dietary guidelines are often developed at country level to assist in bringing dietary intakes closer to nutrient intake goals and, ultimately, to prevent nutrition‐related diseases. However, high food prices, alongside growing inflation, increasingly restrict food choices. This can leave those who are already vulnerable and less well off more exposed to the associated health implications of a nutrient deficient diet. With food and nutrition security being a high priority on the global nutrition agenda, this paper explores the feasibility of food‐based dietary guidelines to assist in improving food and nutrition security, focusing on nutritionally vulnerable groups in South Africa. It is argued that increased food prices, together with population growth, urbanisation and inflation, constrain everyday healthy food choices of a large proportion of South Africans. The South African food‐based dietary guidelines released in 2012 advocate the consumption of a daily diet containing a variety of foods. Unfortunately, even when the most basic and low‐cost food items are selected to make up a recommended daily diet, the associated costs are well out of reach of poor individuals residing in South Africa. The average household income of the poor in South Africa equips many households to procure mainly low‐cost staple foods such as maize meal porridge, with limited added variety. Although the ability to procure enough food to maintain satiety of all family members might categorise them as being food secure, the nutritional limitations of such monotonous diets may have severe implications in terms of their health, development and quality of life. Food‐based dietary guidelines alone have little relevance in such circumstances where financial means limit food choice. Alternative interventions are therefore required to equip the poor to follow recommended healthy diets and to improve individual food intake and nutrition security.
Improving hydration in children: A sensible guide
Authors: Gibson‐Moore H.
Published: May 2013

Water is essential for health and vital for all bodily functions. If water losses are not replaced then dehydration can occur and even mild dehydration is associated with negative effects on health including impaired cognitive function. Studies in schoolchildren have found that many are arriving at school with a hydration deficit and, once they arrive, they are not drinking enough fluid throughout the day to maintain adequate hydration levels, thus potentially affecting their performance at school. Therefore, there is a need to highlight the importance of adequate hydration among schoolchildren. However, there is often confusion among parents, carers, health professionals and teachers about how much fluid children need to drink, as well as what drinks are most appropriate. This article provides a summary of the development of the Healthy hydration guide for children that was produced to help parents, carers, health professionals and teachers, and indeed children themselves, to choose a healthy balance of drinks to ensure optimal performance and health. It is hoped this resource will help children aged 4–13 years to establish healthy drinking behaviours.
Vitamin D2 vs. vitamin D3: Are they one and the same?
Authors: Tripkovic L.
Published: May 2013

It is firmly established that humans need to obtain sufficient vitamin D in order to optimise calcium absorption and thus ensure robust skeletal health throughout the life stages. Vitamin D research is rapidly expanding, with significant interest in the potential health benefits to conditions such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, tuberculosis and dementia. Yet, as the field has expanded, gaps in knowledge have emerged. One of the most pertinent questions at present is whether the two forms of vitamin D (vitamin D2 and D3) are equal in their physiological effect. Emerging evidence challenges this long‐held assumption and raises the possibility that there may in fact be a distinct and significant difference between the efficacy of vitamins D2 and D3 that could have substantial impact in terms of vitamin D status.
Food security through the lens of nutrition
Authors: Buttriss J. L.
Published: May 2013

The Foresight report has described an unprecedented confluence of pressures whereby a growing, and in some cases, increasingly prosperous global population, alongside increasing demand for limited resources and the pressing need to address environmental challenges, including climate change and changing weather patterns, means that food security is seriously and increasingly threatened. Much of the discussion has focussed on greenhouse gas emissions associated with food production and the contribution from meat production and dairying has been highlighted. These protein‐rich foods are features of Western‐style diets and as such make a substantial contribution to intakes of a wide range of essential nutrients. Therefore, it is important to understand the impact on overall dietary patterns and associated nutrient intakes if consumption levels fall, as well as the impact from a sustainability standpoint. From a nutritional perspective, the initial knee jerk reaction around simply eating less meat is already being replaced by a more sophisticated debate that is now considering whether a healthy diet, as currently framed by food‐based dietary guidelines, can also be a sustainable dietary pattern now and in the future. There are some important questions that need to be addressed in order for a clearer picture to emerge. For example, it is as yet unclear what dietary choices consumers would make if their consumption of these foods were to be reduced, what effect these choices would have on their health and on sustainability of the food supply, and which groups of the population or individuals within households will be most vulnerable, recognising that there are demographic changes already underway associated with an ageing population. This paper provides a viewpoint through the lens of nutrition and summarises some of the initiatives already underway in relation to food security.
Membrane association and destabilization by Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans leukotoxin requires changes in secondary structures
Authors: Walters M.J. , Brown A.C. , Edrington T.C. , Baranwal S. , Du Y. , Lally E.T. , Boesze‐Battaglia K.
Published: May 2013

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is a common inhabitant of the upper aerodigestive tract of humans and non‐human primates and is associated with disseminated infections, including lung and brain abscesses, pediatric infective endocarditis, and localized aggressive periodontitis. Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans secretes a repeats‐in‐toxin protein, leukotoxin, which exclusively kills lymphocyte function‐associated antigen‐1‐bearing cells. The toxin's pathological mechanism is not fully understood; however, experimental evidence indicates that it involves the association with and subsequent destabilization of the target cell's plasma membrane. We have long hypothesized that leukotoxin secondary structure is strongly correlated with membrane association and destabilization. In this study, we tested this hypothesis by analysing lipid‐induced changes in leukotoxin conformation. Upon incubation of leukotoxin with lipids that favor leukotoxin‐membrane association, we observed an increase in leukotoxin α‐helical content that was not observed with lipids that favor membrane destabilization. The change in leukotoxin conformation after incubation with these lipids suggests that membrane binding and membrane destabilization have distinct secondary structural requirements, suggesting that they are independent events. These studies provide insight into the mechanism of cell damage that leads to disease progression by A. actinomycetemcomitans.
The development of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia: an interview with Dr. John J. ‘Jack’ Downes
Authors: Mai Christine L. , Schreiner Mark S. , Firth Paul G. , Yaster Myron
Published: May 2013

Dr. John J. ‘Jack’ Downes (1930–), the anesthesiologist‐in‐chief at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (1972–1996), has made numerous contributions to pediatric anesthesia and critical care medicine through a broad spectrum of research on chronic respiratory failure, status asthmaticus, postoperative risks of apnea in premature infants, and home‐assisted mechanical ventilation. However, his defining moment was in January 1967, when The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia inaugurated its pediatric intensive care unit—the first of its kind in North America. During his tenure, he and his colleagues trained an entire generation of pediatric anesthesiologists and intensivists and set a standard of care and professionalism that continues to the present day. Based on an interview with Dr. Downes, this article reviews a career that advanced pediatric anesthesia and critical care medicine and describes the development of that first pediatric intensive care unit at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
Salivary Gland Choristoma (Heterotopic Salivary Gland Tissue) on the Anterior Chest Wall of a Newborn
Authors: Aby Janelle L. , Patel Mayha , Sundram Uma , Benjamin Latanya T.
Published: May 2013

Salivary gland choristoma (heterotopic salivary gland tissue) is a rare condition typically seen in the newborn period. This developmental heterotopia is generally nonprogressive, with little risk of malignant transformation. We present the second known reported case of a salivary gland choristoma located on the anterior chest wall. Knowledge of this rare entity will allow for accurate diagnosis and management of this benign anatomic variant.
Refractory Trichophyton rubrum Infection in Lamellar Ichthyosis
Authors: Scheers Christel , Andre Josette , Thompson Curtis , Rebuffat Elisabeth , Harag Saadia , Kolivras Athanassios
Published: May 2013

A 10‐month‐old boy with congenital lamellar ichthyosis presented with a chronic Trichophyton rubrum infection. There was no history of atopy or immunosuppression, and examination revealed high total immunoglobulin E (IgE) with a positive specific IgE for T. rubrum. Multiple treatments with fluconazole were necessary to control the infection. T. rubrum is present worldwide and is responsible for the vast majority of chronic dermatophytosis. Lamellar ichthyosis is a risk factor for chronic dermatophytosis because of excessive keratin and the barrier defect. A delayed‐type hypersensitivity reaction to T. rubrum is associated with cure, whereas immediate hypersensitivity and IgE are not protective and may lead to chronic infection. Atopy and the Th2 profile therefore seem to be associated with chronic dermatophytosis. The association between ichthyosis and atopy is well documented. T. rubrum also has an interesting ability to evade immunity, which helps explain the chronic infection. Finally, in ichthyosis, it is likely that fluconazole has difficulty penetrating the acanthotic stratum corneum, which explains treatment failure. We report this case to alert clinicians to the possible association between lamellar ichthyosis and chronic dermatophytosis and to report the difficulties of management.
Molluscum Contagiosum–Like Lesions in Histoid Leprosy in a 10‐Year‐Old Indian Boy
Authors: Chander Ram , Jabeen Masarat , Malik Meenu
Published: May 2013

Histoid leprosy is extremely rare in children. Molluscum contagiosum–like lesions in the setting of histoid leprosy is a highly atypical presentation and may signify the process of “transepidermal elimination” in lesions with high bacillary load. A case of histoid leprosy with umbilicated papules and nodules mimicking molluscum contagiosum is reported in a 10‐year‐old Indian boy.
Early Versus Later Presentations of Venous Malformations: Where and Why?
Authors: Vogel Sinae A. , Hess Christopher P. , Dowd Christopher F. , Hoffman William Y. , Kane Ari J. , Rajaii Roxanne , Frieden Ilona J.
Published: May 2013

Venous malformations (VMs) are congenital anomalies of the venous vasculature, but not all are evident at birth. The factors that lead to presentation later in life are not well understood. The objective of this retrospective cohort study of patients with VMs evaluated at the University of California at San Francisco Birthmarks and Vascular Anomalies Center from 2005 to 2009 was to investigate the clinical presentation of VMs and correlate these features with different types of tissues (e.g., skin, subcutis, intramuscular). Main outcomes included the age at which lesions were first noticed, tissue type involved, presenting signs and symptoms, aggravating factors, and morbidities. A total of 115 subjects was included. The mean age when VM was first noted was 6.7 ± 0.9 years. Tissue types involved included skin/subcutaneous (46%); intramuscular (40%); and bone, tendon, or joint (14%). Presenting signs/symptoms included soft tissue swelling (44%), discrete mass (34%), pain (33%), and skin discoloration (26%). When compared with VMs limited to the skin or subcutis, those restricted to the intramuscular compartment were less likely to present at birth (27% vs 53%, p < 0.05) but were more frequently painful (79% vs 60%, p < 0.05) and contained more phleboliths (28% vs 11%, p < 0.05), and were associated with more exercise limitation (35% vs 16%, p < 0.05). VMs differ in age of onset, clinical features, and complications based on differing tissues and sites of involvement, with isolated intramuscular involvement associated with later presentation and greater morbidity.
Differences Between Dementia Caregivers Who are Users and Nonusers of Community Services
Authors: Robinson Karen M. , Buckwalter Kathleen , Reed David
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To examine differences between users and non‐users of community services in caregivers of persons with dementia (PWD). A profile of who used services versus did not use services was developed.

Design and Sample

Existing cross‐sectional data from the NINR funded National Caregiver Training Project (data collected 1995–1997) were used. The sample (N = 241) of caucasian, well‐educated caregivers reflected a mix of spouse and adult caregivers with a mean age of 64.8 years.

Measures

Variables measured included caregiver social support, burden, and depression as well as problem behavior of PWD.

Results

The majority of caregivers did not attend support groups (73%) or use respite services (79%). Among caregivers who did not use services, 78% lived with the recipient and 77% were spouses. The profile of non‐users compared to users revealed that non‐users were significantly older, more depressed, and received less social support. On the other hand, non‐users provided fewer hours of care per week to recipients who had less cognitive and functional deterioration and fewer behavior problems.

Conclusions

These findings provide public health nurses with knowledge about service use in caregivers of PWD. Recommendations regarding caregiver needs for assistance and increased use of services before a crisis ensues are presented.
Yes, Raise My Taxes: Property Tax Cap Override Elections
Authors: Roscoe Douglas D.
Published: May 2013

Objectives

Although public opinion generally is opposed to tax increases, voters frequently choose to raise their own taxes in property tax cap override elections. This study sought to uncover the factors that are associated with successful attempts to increase local property taxes.

Methods

This phenomenon was studied in Massachusetts towns, where over 1,200 overrides were successful from 1990 to 2007. Multivariate analysis was used to assess the relative importance of variables related to two theoretical perspectives: voting as utility maximization and voting as symbolic action.

Results

The results show that override support reflects the fiscal condition of the town, the context of the particular override request, and, most importantly, the socioeconomics of the community. Overrides were more successful in communities that had higher levels of education, lower levels of affluence, and smaller nonwhite populations. In addition, overrides were more successful in towns with lower existing tax rates and where the particular override was less salient and narrower in scope.

Conclusions

On balance, the results are supportive of a symbolic theory of override voting in which voters are expressing their general views about government, rather than choosing in a way reflective of individual utility maximization.
The stochastic silencing phenotype of Arabidopsis morc6mutants reveals a role in efficient RNA‐directed DNAmethylation
Authors: Brabbs Thomas R. , He Zhesi , Hogg Karen , Kamenski Andrei , Li Yi , Paszkiewicz Konrad H. , Moore Karen A. , O'Toole Peter , Graham Ian A. , Jones Louise
Published: May 2013

The RNA‐directed DNA methylation (RdDM) pathway is of central importance to the initiation and maintenance of transcriptional gene silencing in plants. DNA methylation is directed to target sequences by a mechanism that involves production of small RNAs by RNA polymerase IV and long non‐coding RNAs by RNA polymerase V. DNA methylation then leads to recruitment of histone‐modifying enzymes, followed by establishment of a silenced chromatin state. Recently MORC6, a member of the microrchidia (MORC) family of adenosine triphosphatases (ATPases), has been shown to be involved in transcriptional gene silencing. However, reports differ regarding whether MORC6 is involved in RdDM itself or acts downstream of DNA methylation to enable formation of higher‐order chromatin structure. Here we demonstrate that MORC6 is required for efficient RdDM at some target loci, and, using a GFP reporter system, we found that morc6 mutants show a stochastic silencing phenotype. By using cell sorting to separate silenced and unsilenced cells, we show that release of silencing at this locus is associated with a loss of DNA methylation. Thus our data support a view that MORC6 influences RdDM and that it is not acting downstream of DNA methylation. For some loci, efficient initiation or maintenance of DNA methylation may depend on the ability to form higher‐order chromatin structure.
Rab27 Effectors, Pleiotropic Regulators in Secretory Pathways
Authors: Fukuda Mitsunori
Published: May 2013

Rab27, a member of the small GTPase Rab family, is widely conserved in metazoan, and two Rab27 isoforms, Rab27A and Rab27B, are present in vertebrates. Rab27A was the first Rab protein whose dysfunction was found to cause a human hereditary disease, type 2 Griscelli syndrome, which is characterized by silvery hair and immunodeficiency. The discovery in the 21st century of three distinct types of mammalian Rab27A effectors [synaptotagmin‐like protein (Slp), Slp homologue lacking C2 domains (Slac2), and Munc13‐4] that specifically bind active Rab27A has greatly accelerated our understanding not only of the molecular mechanisms of Rab27A‐mediated membrane traffic (e.g. melanosome transport and regulated secretion) but of the symptoms of Griscelli syndrome patients at the molecular level. Because Rab27B is widely expressed in various tissues together with Rab27A and has been found to have the ability to bind all of the Rab27A effectors that have been tested, Rab27A and Rab27B were initially thought to function redundantly by sharing common Rab27 effectors. However, recent evidence has indicated that by interacting with different Rab27 effectors Rab27A and Rab27B play different roles in special types of secretion (e.g. exosome secretion and mast cell secretion) even within the same cell type. In this review article, I describe the current state of our understanding of the functions of Rab27 effectors in secretory pathways.
Is That a Rodent in Your Luggage? A Mixed Method Approach to Describe Bushmeat Importation into the United States
Authors: Bair‐Brake H. , Bell T. , Higgins A. , Bailey N. , Duda M. , Shapiro S. , Eves H. E. , Marano N. , Galland G.
Published: May 2013

Bushmeat, defined as meat derived from wild animals, is a potential source of zoonotic pathogens. Bushmeat from restricted animals is illegal to import into the United States under US federal regulations. We reviewed US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) port of entry surveillance records from September 2005 through December 2010 and conducted focus group studies to describe trends in and reasons for bushmeat importation into the United States. In total, 543 confiscated bushmeat items were recorded. Half of the confiscated bushmeat items identified were rodents. Africa was the most frequent continent of origin. Seasonality was evident, with bushmeat confiscations peaking in late spring to early summer. Four times more bushmeat was confiscated during an enhanced surveillance period in June 2010 compared with the same period in previous years, suggesting that routine surveillance underestimated the amount of bushmeat detected at US Ports of Entry. Focus groups held in three major US cities revealed that bushmeat importation is a multifaceted issue. Longstanding cultural practices of hunting and eating bushmeat make it difficult for consumers to acknowledge potential health and ecologic risks. Also, US merchants selling African goods, including bushmeat, in their stores have caused confusion among importers as to whether importation is truly illegal. Enhancing routine surveillance for bushmeat and consistent enforcement of penalties at all ports of entry, along with health education aimed at bushmeat importers, might be useful to deter illegal importation.
Physics-Based Model of a Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid Battery and an Equivalent Circuit
Authors: Shen Zheng , Rahn Christopher D.
Published: May 2013

Lead (Pb)-acid batteries are a low-cost power source for applications ranging from hybrid and electric vehicles (HEVs) to large-scale energy storage. Efficient simulation, design, and management systems require the development of low order but accurate models. In this paper we develop a reduced-order Pb-acid battery model from first principles using linearization and the Ritz discretization method. The model, even with a low-order discretization, accurately predicts the voltage response to a dynamic pulse current input and outputs spatially distributed variables of interest. A dynamic averaged model is developed from the Ritz model and realized by an equivalent circuit. The circuit resistances and capacitances depend on electrochemical parameters, linking the equivalent circuit model to the underlying electrochemistry of the first principles model.
Selective area growth of InAs on InP with dielectric mask
Authors: Chou C. Y. , Torfi A. , Wang W. I.
Published: May 2013

Low resistance ohmic contacts are important for high frequency applications of InP-based heterojunction bipolar transistors and high electron mobility transistors. In this paper, the authors investigate the use of an InAs layer as the low-resistance ohmic contact to these heterostructure devices. Selective area crystal growth of InAs on a dielectric [benzocyclobutene (BCB) polymer] covered InP(100) was carried out by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Additionally, direct growth of InAs on InP substrates was performed to allow comparisons with InAs grown on BCB-covered InP. Different growth temperatures were tested to optimize the crystal quality of the InAs layer, which was characterized by scanning electron microscope and x-ray diffraction. Heavy doping of InAs using Te was carried out to determine the lowest sheet resistance. As the substrate temperature was increased from 210 to 350 °C, the crystallinity improved from a polycrystal layer to a single crystal layer with corresponding improvement of surface morphology. Moreover, sharp x-ray diffraction indicated the 3.3% lattice-mismatch was fully relaxed without misorientation. However, a trade off was reached around 290 °C between crystallinity and optimized dopant incorporation of Te into InAs for lowest sheet resistance. The results indicate the potential of Te-doped InAs as emitter contact for high frequency devices by MBE.
Comprehensive study on molecular beam epitaxy-grown InAs sub-monolayer quantum dots with different capping combinations
Authors: Sengupta Saumya , Mandal Arjun , Ghadi Hemant , Chakrabarti Subhananda , Mathur Keshav Lal
Published: May 2013

Here the authors report a comprehensive study on InAs sub-monolayer quantum dots with different capping layers. After performing systematic optimization of InAs deposition and GaAs thickness, they grew three samples, namely A, B and C, using solid-state molecular beam epitaxy with identical architecture but different capping materials (2 nm of GaAs, InGaAs-GaAs, and InAlGaAs-GaAs, respectively). Photoluminescence emission peaks due to the ground state transition from the dots were observed at 898, 917, and 867 nm for samples A, B, and C, respectively. Narrow full-width half-maxima (19–32 meV) of the emission peaks indicates high uniformity of dot size distribution. Using the conventional Arrhenius plot, the authors calculated the thermal activation energies from temperature-dependent photoluminescence experiment for samples A, B, and C as 49, 112, and 109 meV, respectively. To complete the study, single-pixel photodetectors were fabricated from samples A, B, and C and temperature-dependent dark current variation with applied bias voltage was measured. Dark current was calculated to be in the range of 10−5–10−4 A/cm2 at a 0.5 V applied bias at 77 K. The activation energies calculated from temperature-dependent dark current measurement for samples A, B, and C were 75, 160, and 155 meV, respectively, and followed the trend observed in temperature-dependent photoluminescence measurements.
Troubling Trends in Scientific Software Use
Authors: Joppa Lucas N. , McInerny Greg , Harper Richard , Salido Lara , Takeda Kenji , O'Hara Kenton , Gavaghan David , Emmott Stephen
Published: May 2013

"Blind trust" is dangerous when choosing software to support research.