bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using SMS to monitor adverse events following trivalent influenza vaccination in pregnant women
Authors: Regan Annette K. , Blyth Christopher C. , Mak Donna B. , Richmond Peter C. , Effler Paul V.
Published: October 2014

Background

Trivalent influenza vaccine (TIV) has been recommended for pregnant women in Australia for more than a decade and funded since 2009, yet vaccination coverage remains low. Misperceptions of the safety of TIV in pregnancy have been identified as a major contributor to low vaccination rates. Ongoing safety monitoring with dissemination of results could help improve antenatal influenza vaccine uptake.

Aim

To implement a real‐time safety monitoring program for TIV administered to pregnant women.

Materials and Methods

Between March and July 2013, a cohort of 3,173 pregnant women who received the 2013 TIV agreed to follow‐up regarding possible adverse events following immunisation (AEFI); 3,047 (96%) provided a mobile telephone number and were sent a short message service (SMS) inquiring whether they had experienced an AEFI; attempts were made to contact the remaining 126 (4%) women by voice telephone call.

Results

Responses were obtained from 2,885 (90.9%) women, 413 (14.3%) of whom reported a suspected AEFI. Local reactions were the most frequently reported AEFI (4.9%), followed by headache (3.3%), fever (2.7%), fatigue (2.5%), diarrhoea (2.5%) and malaise (1.2%); 39 women (1.4%) sought medical advice and no serious vaccine‐related AEFIs were identified. Response rates were higher for SMS compared to telephone (84% vs 63%; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

These findings support the safety of TIV in pregnant women. Mobile phone technology proved an efficient method for timely surveillance of adverse events following vaccination. The low level of AEFI observed should be reassuring to antenatal patients and their providers and help promote TIV uptake.
A prospective audit of the adherence to a new magnesium sulphate guideline for the neuroprotection of infants born less than 30 weeks' gestation
Authors: Tan Yu Hwee , Groom Katie M.
Published: October 2014

Antenatal magnesium sulphate reduces the risk of cerebral palsy in babies born <30 weeks’ gestation. A guideline for its use in women at imminent risk of preterm birth was implemented at National Women's Health, Auckland City Hospital in 2012. This prospective audit assessed adherence to the guideline in women delivering at <30 weeks in the first year after its implementation. Magnesium sulphate was safely administered to 58 of 71 (82%) eligible women and 58 of 61 (95%) of women where it was clinically appropriate and practically achievable.
A possible link between dysmenorrhoea and the development of chronic pelvic pain
Authors: Hardi Gemma , Evans Susan , Craigie Meredith
Published: October 2014

Anecdotally, severe dysmenorrhoea can pre‐date the development of chronic pelvic pain (CPP). This study describes the timeline for the transition from dysmenorrhoea to CPP in a cohort of new patients attending a private gynaecology clinic. In 16.4% of cases, transition occurred within one year, and within 12 years in over 50%. Our study suggests clinicians need to observe women with severe dysmenorrhoea for signs of chronic pain. Further research is needed into the transition from dysmenorrhoea to CPP, and effective early interventions.
Simulation‐based teaching versus point‐of‐care teaching for identification of basic transoesophageal echocardiography views: a prospective randomised study
Authors: Ogilvie E. , Vlachou A. , Edsell M. , Fletcher S. N. , Valencia O. , Meineri M. , Sharma V.
Published: October 2014

In recent years, the use of transoesophageal echocardiography has increased in anaesthesia and intensive care. We explored the impact of two different teaching methods on the ability of echocardiography‐naïve subjects to identify cardiac anatomy associated with the 20 standard transoesophageal echocardiography imaging planes, and assessed trainees' satisfaction with these methods of training. Fifty‐two subjects were randomly assigned to one of two groups: a simulation‐based and a theatre‐based teaching group. Subjects undertook video‐based tests comprised of 20 multiple choice questions on echocardiography views before and after receiving echocardiography teaching. Subjects in simulation‐ and theatre‐based teaching groups scored 40% (30–40 [20–50])% and 35% (30–40 [15–55])% in the pre‐test, respectively (p = 0.52). Following echocardiography teaching, subjects within both groups improved upon their pre‐test knowledge (p < 0.001). Subjects in the simulation‐based teaching group significantly outperformed their theatre‐based group counterparts in the post‐intervention test (p = 0.0002).
Metalloproteinase Inhibition Protects against Reductions in Circulating Adrenomedullin during Lead‐induced Acute Hypertension
Authors: Nascimento Regina A. , Mendes Gabryella , Possomato‐Vieira Jose S. , Gonçalves‐Rizzi Victor Hugo , Kushima Hélio , Delella Flavia K. , Dias‐Junior Carlos A.
Published: October 2014

Intoxication with lead (Pb) results in increased blood pressure by mechanisms involving matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Recent findings have revealed that MMP type two (MMP‐2) seems to cleave vasoactive peptides. This study examined whether MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 levels/activities increase after acute intoxication with low lead concentrations and whether these changes were associated with increases in blood pressure and circulating endothelin‐1 or with reductions in circulating adrenomedullin and calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP). Here, we expand previous findings and examine whether doxycycline (a MMPs inhibitor) affects these alterations. Wistar rats received intraperitoneally (i.p.) 1st dose 8 μg/100 g of lead (or sodium) acetate, a subsequent dose of 0.1 μg/100 g to cover daily loss and treatment with doxycycline (30 mg/kg/day) or water by gavage for 7 days. Similar whole‐blood lead levels (9 μg/dL) were found in lead‐exposed rats treated with either doxycycline or water. Lead‐induced increases in systolic blood pressure (from 143 ± 2 to 167 ± 3 mmHg) and gelatin zymography of plasma samples showed that lead increased MMP‐9 (but not MMP‐2) levels. Both lead‐induced increased MMP‐9 activity and hypertension were blunted by doxycycline. Doxycycline also prevented lead‐induced reductions in circulating adrenomedullin. No significant changes in plasma levels of endothelin‐1 or CGRP were found. Lead‐induced decreases in nitric oxide markers and antioxidant status were not prevented by doxycycline. In conclusion, acute lead exposure increases blood pressure and MMP‐9 activity, which were blunted by doxycycline. These findings suggest that MMP‐9 may contribute with lead‐induced hypertension by cleaving the vasodilatory peptide adrenomedullin, thereby inhibiting adrenomedullin‐dependent lowering of blood pressure.
Risk‐tailored CNS prophylaxis in a mono‐institutional series of 200 patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma treated in the rituximab era
Authors: Ferreri Andrés J. M. , Bruno‐Ventre Marta , Donadoni Giovanni , Ponzoni Maurilio , Citterio Giovanni , Foppoli Marco , Vignati Alessandro , Scarfò Lydia , Sassone Marianna , Govi Silvia , Caligaris‐Cappio Federico
Published: October 2014

The most effective strategy to prevent central nervous system (CNS) dissemination in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) remains an important, unmet clinical need. Herein, we report a retrospective analysis of risk‐tailored CNS prophylaxis in 200 human immunodeficiency virus‐negative adults with DLBCL treated with rituximab‐CHOP (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone) or similar. High risk of CNS relapse was defined by involvement of specific extranodal organs, or simultaneous presence of advanced stage and high serum lactate dehydrogenase level; CNS prophylaxis with high‐dose methotrexate ± intrathecal chemotherapy (IT) was routinely used in high‐risk patients diagnosed after 2007. CNS relapse risk was low in 93 patients and high in 107; 40 high‐risk patients received prophylaxis, which consisted of IT alone in 7. At a median follow‐up of 60 months, one low‐risk and nine high‐risk patients (1% vs. 8%; P = 0·01) experienced CNS relapse. In the high‐risk group, CNS relapses occurred in 8/67 (12%) patients who did not receive prophylaxis and in 1/40 (2·5%) patients who did; the latter occurred in a patient managed with IT alone. CNS relapse rate was 12% (9/74) for patients treated with “inadequate” prophylaxis (none or IT only) and 0% (0/33) for patients managed with intravenous prophylaxis (P = 0·03). In conclusion, high‐dose methotrexate‐based prophylaxis significantly reduces CNS failures in high‐risk patients stratified by involvement of specific extranodal sites and International Prognostic Index.
Self‐monitoring of blood glucose versus self‐monitoring of urine glucose in adults with newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes receiving structured education: a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dallosso H. M. , Bodicoat D. H. , Campbell M. , Carey M. E. , Davies M. J. , Eborall H. C. , Hadjiconstantinou M. , Khunti K. , Speight J. , Heller S.
Published: October 2014

Aims

To compare the effectiveness and acceptability of self‐monitoring of blood glucose with self‐monitoring of urine glucose in adults with newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We conducted a multi‐site cluster randomized controlled trial with practice‐level randomization. Participants attended a structured group education programme, which included a module on self‐monitoring using blood glucose or urine glucose monitoring. HbA1c and other biomedical measures as well as psychosocial data were collected at 6, 12 and 18 months. A total of 292 participants with Type 2 diabetes were recruited from 75 practices.

Results

HbA1c levels were significantly lower at 18 months than at baseline in both the blood monitoring group [mean (se) −12 (2) mmol/mol; −1.1 (0.2) %] and the urine monitoring group [mean (se) −13 (2) mmol/mol; −1.2 (0.2)%], with no difference between groups [mean difference adjusted for cluster effect and baseline value = −1 mmol/mol (95% CI −3, 2); −0.1% (95% CI −0.3, 0.2)]. Similar improvements were observed for the other biomedical outcomes, with no differences between groups. Both groups showed improvements in total treatment satisfaction, generic well‐being, and diabetes‐specific well‐being, and had a less threatening view of diabetes, with no differences between groups at 18 months. Approximately one in five participants in the urine monitoring arm switched to blood monitoring, while those in the blood monitoring arm rarely switched (18 vs 1% at 18 months; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Participants with newly diagnosed Type 2 diabetes who attended structured education showed similar improvements in HbA1c levels at 18 months, regardless of whether they were assigned to blood or urine self‐monitoring.
Prevalence and awareness of diabetes mellitus among a rural population in China: results from Liaoning Province
Authors: Zhou X. , Guan H. , Zheng L. , Li Z. , Guo X. , Yang H. , Yu S. , Sun G. , Li W. , Hu W. , Guo L. , Pan G. , Xing L. , Zhang Y. , Sun Y.
Published: October 2014

Aim

To clarify the diabetes prevalence trends among the rural population in northern China.

Methods

All eligible permanent residents aged ≥ 35 years in selected rural villages of Liaoning province were invited to participate in the study. A total of 11 600 people completed all questionnaires and were included in the study. The response rate was 85.3%. Fasting plasma glucose levels were measured after at least 12 h of fasting and diabetes was diagnosed according to WHO criteria, i.e. fasting plasma glucose ≥ 7 mmol/l and/or being on treatment for diabetes. Impaired fasting glucose was defined according to the 1997 and the 2010 American Diabetes Association (ADA) criteria (6.1–6.9 and 5.6–6.9 mmol/l, respectively). Previous diagnoses of diabetes were assessed on the basis of self‐reports.

Results

The prevalence of diabetes among adults in the rural population was 10.6% (10.0% in men and 11.1% in women). The prevalence of impaired fasting glucose was 13.0 and 36.1% according to the 1997 and the 2010 ADA criteria, respectively. The prevalence of previously diagnosed diabetes was 4.3% among the whole population (3.3% in men and 5.1% in women). The prevalence of previously diagnosed diabetes was 34.8% in men and 50.2% in women. Only 29.6% of men and 42% of women with diabetes had taken oral hypoglycaemic agents or insulin to lower their blood sugar. In multivariate analysis, age, drinking habits, BMI, dyslipidaemia and family history of diabetes were identified as independent risk factors for diabetes, and occupational physical activity, smoking and lean meat intake were identified as independent protective factors for diabetes.

Conclusions

The prevalence of diabetes and impaired fasting glucose were found to be high in this rural population. Although the rate of treatment of people with diabetes has increased, the glycaemic control rate was still at a low level.
Perioperative diabetes care: room for improving the person centredness
Authors: Hommel I. , van Gurp P. J. , Tack C. J. , Liefers J. , Mulder J. , Wollersheim H. , Hulscher M. E. J. L.
Published: October 2014

Aims

Person centredness is an important principle for delivering high‐quality diabetes care. In this study, we assess the level of person centredness of current perioperative diabetes care.

Methods

We conducted a survey in six Dutch hospitals, among 690 participants with diabetes who underwent major abdominal, cardiac or large‐joint orthopaedic surgery. The survey included questions regarding seven dimensions of person‐centred perioperative diabetes care.

Results

Complete data were obtained from 298 participants. The survey scores were low for many of the dimensions of person centredness. The dimensions ‘information’, ‘patient involvement’ and ‘coordination and integration of care’ had the lowest scores. Only half the participants had received information about perioperative diabetes treatment, and approximately one‐third had received information about the effect of surgery on blood glucose values, target glucose values and glucose measurement times. Similarly, half the participants had an opportunity to ask questions preoperatively, and only one‐third of the participants felt involved in the decision‐making regarding diabetes treatment. Most participants knew neither the caregiver in charge of perioperative diabetes treatment nor whom to contact in case of diabetes‐related problems during their hospital stay.

Conclusions

Current perioperative diabetes care is characterized by a lack of patient information and limited patient involvement. These results indicate that there is ample room for improving the person centredness of perioperative diabetes care.
Adolescent testosterone, muscle mass and glucose metabolism: evidence from the ‘Children of 1997’ birth cohort in Hong Kong
Authors: Hou W. W. , Tse M. A. , Lam T. H. , Leung G. M. , Schooling C. M.
Published: October 2014

Aims

Diabetes rates are high in Asia despite relatively low rates of obesity, which might be related to lower muscle mass. Muscle mass plays an important role in glucose metabolism. Peak muscle mass is obtained in late adolescence. We tested the hypothesis that pubertal testosterone is negatively associated with glucose metabolism mediated by muscle mass.

Methods

Participants aged 15 years (278 boys and 223 girls) were recruited from the Hong Kong's ‘Children of 1997’ birth cohort in 2012. Multivariable linear regression with multiple imputation and inverse probability weighting was used to examine the adjusted associations of pubertal testosterone with skeletal muscle index, body fat percentage, fasting glucose, insulin and homeostasis model of assessment – insulin resistance.

Results

Total testosterone was negatively associated with fasting glucose (−0.008, 95% confidence interval −0.015 to −0.002), insulin (−0.43, 95% confidence interval −0.56 to −0.30) and insulin and homeostasis model of assessment – insulin resistance (−0.09, 95% confidence interval −0.12 to −0.06) adjusted for sex, birth weight, highest parental education, mother's place of birth and physical activity. These associations were attenuated by additional adjustment for skeletal mass index or body fat percentage.

Conclusions

Adolescent glucose metabolism may be influenced by testosterone, perhaps partially via skeletal muscle mass.
Utility of ketone measurement in the prevention, diagnosis and management of diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Misra S. , Oliver N. S.
Published: October 2014

Ketone measurement is advocated for the diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis and assessment of its severity. Assessing the evidence base for ketone measurement in clinical practice is challenging because multiple methods are available but there is a lack of consensus about which is preferable. Evaluating the utility of ketone measurement is additionally problematic because of variability in the biochemical definition of ketoacidosis internationally and in the proposed thresholds for ketone measures. This has led to conflicting guidance from expert bodies on how ketone measurement should be used in the management of ketoacidosis. The development of point‐of‐care devices that can reliably measure the capillary blood ketone β‐hydroxybutyrate (BOHB) has widened the spectrum of applications of ketone measurement, but whether the evidence base supporting these applications is robust enough to warrant their incorporation into routine clinical practice remains unclear. The imprecision of capillary blood ketone measures at higher values, the lack of availability of routine laboratory‐based assays for BOHB and the continued cost‐effectiveness of urine ketone assessment prompt further discussion on the role of capillary blood ketone assessment in ketoacidosis. In the present article, we review the various existing methods of ketone measurement, the precision of capillary blood ketone as compared with other measures, its diagnostic accuracy in predicting ketoacidosis and other clinical applications including prevention, assessment of severity and resolution of ketoacidosis.
Diabetes‐related quality of life is enhanced by glycaemic improvement in older people
Authors: Abbatecola A. M. , Spazzafumo L. , Fabbietti P. , Testa R. , Rabini R. A. , Bonfigli A. R. , Corsonello A. , Lattanzio F. , Paolisso G.
Published: October 2014

Aims

To investigate the validity and reliability of the Audit of Diabetes‐Dependent Quality of Life instrument in older Italians with diabetes and to test the association of diabetes‐related quality of life with glycaemic control over time.

Methods

A total of 558 outpatients with Type 2 diabetes from the Diabetic Unit of the Italian National Research Centre on Aging Hospital in Ancona were enrolled to complete questionnaires (Audit of Diabetes‐Dependent Quality of Life‐19 and the Short‐Form‐12), and to undergo clinical and biochemical testing at baseline and at 12 months of follow‐up. The overall impact of diabetes using the average weighted impact score from the Audit of Diabetes‐Dependent Quality of Life questionnaire was calculated. Participants were categorized according to this score as having either less or more negative diabetes‐related quality of life.

Results

Participants had a mean ± sd age of 67.7 ± 9.2 years and 51.8% were male. Factor analysis and Cronbach's coefficient of internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.931) confirmed that the 19 domain‐specific Audit of Diabetes‐Dependent Quality of Life items could be combined into a single scale in this Italian population. The impact score correlated with the physical (r = 0.275; P < 0.001) and mental components (r = 0.291; P < 0.001) of the Short‐Form‐12 questionnaire. Significant differences were found according to diabetic complications in specific Audit of Diabetes‐Dependent Quality of Life items and impact scores. Insulin use had a greater association with a more negative quality of life compared with other antidiabetic agents. A multivariate linear regression model with restricted linear spline application showed that the relationship between HbA1c and impact score was not linear and that the change in the impact score was associated with improved glycaemic control in those with a less negative diabetes‐related quality of life at 12 months.

Conclusions

The Audit of Diabetes‐Dependent Quality of Life‐19 is a valid tool for measuring the impact of diabetes on quality of life in older Italians. Perception of diabetes‐related quality of life is associated with glycaemic control over time.
Vitamin D analogue therapy, cardiovascular risk and kidney function in people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus and diabetic nephropathy: a randomized trial
Authors: Joergensen C. , Tarnow L. , Goetze J. P. , Rossing P.
Published: October 2014

Aim

To evaluate the effects of therapy with the vitamin D analogue paricalcitol on markers of cardiovascular risk and kidney function in people with Type 1 diabetes mellitus and diabetic nephropathy.

Methods

In a double‐blind, randomized placebo‐controlled, crossover trial, 48 participants on stable renin angiotensin aldosterone system blockade and diuretics were assigned, in random order, to 12 weeks of paricalcitol and 12 weeks of placebo therapy, separated by a 4‐week washout period. Primary and secondary endpoints were changes in plasma N‐terminal probrain natriuretic peptide and urinary albumin excretion rate obtained before and after each intervention. Glomerular filtration rates were estimated and measured (51Cr‐EDTA plasma clearance glomerular filtration rate) after each intervention.

Results

The mean (sd) age of the participants was 57 (9) years, the baseline geometric mean (95% CI) urinary albumin excretion rate was 148 (85–259) mg/24 h, the mean (sd) HbA1c was 70 (9) mmol/mol [8.6 (3)%], the mean (sd) estimated glomerular filtration rate was 47 (15) ml/min/1.73 m2 and the mean (sd) 24‐h blood pressure was 135 (17)/74 (10) mmHg. Compared with placebo therapy, vitamin D analogue therapy had no significant effect on plasma N‐terminal probrain natriuretic peptide concentration (P = 0.6), urinary albumin excretion rate was reduced by 18% (P = 0.03 for comparison), estimated glomerular filtration rate was reduced by 5 ml/min/1.73 m2 (P < 0.001) and measured glomerular filtration rate was reduced by 1.5 ml/min/1.73 m2 (P = 0.2).

Conclusions

Paricalcitol therapy did not affect plasma N‐terminal probrain natriuretic peptide concentration in people with Type 1 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy; however, the urinary albumin excretion rate was significantly lowered.
Novel therapeutics for type 2 diabetes: insulin resistance
Authors: Altaf Q.‐A. , Barnett A. H , Tahrani A. A.
Published: October 2014

Insulin resistance (IR) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease. Hence improving IR is a major target of treatment in patients with T2D. Obesity and lack of exercise are major causes of IR. However, recent evidence implicates sleep disorders and disorders of the circadian rhythm in the pathogenesis of IR. Weight loss and lifestyle changes are the cornerstone and most effective treatments of IR, but adherence and patient's acceptability are poor. Bariatric surgery results in significant and sustainable long‐term weight loss associated with beneficial impact on IR and glucose metabolism, making this an attractive treatment option for patients with T2D. Currently available pharmacological options targeting IR (such as metformin and thiazolidinediones) do not maintain glycaemic measures within targets long term and can be associated with significant side effects. Over the last two decades, many pharmacological agents targeting different aspects of the insulin signalling pathway were developed to improve IR, but only a minority reached clinical trials. Such treatments need to be specific and reversible as many of the components of the insulin signalling pathway are involved in other cellular functions such as apoptosis. Recent evidence highlighted the role of circadian rhythm and sleep‐related disorders in the pathogenesis of IR. In this article, we review the latest developments in the pharmacological and non‐pharmacological interventions targeting IR including bariatric surgery. We will also review the role of circadian rhythm and sleep‐related disorders in the development and treatment of IR.
Altered erythropoiesis and iron metabolism in carriers of thalassemia
Authors: Guimarães Jacqueline S. , Cominal Juçara G. , Silva‐Pinto Ana Cristina , Olbina Gordana , Ginzburg Yelena Z. , Nandi Vijay , Westerman Mark , Rivella Stefano , de Souza Ana Maria
Published: October 2014

The thalassemia syndromes (α‐ and β‐thalassemia) are the most common and frequent disorders associated with ineffective erythropoiesis. Imbalance of α‐ or β‐globin chain production results in impaired red blood cell synthesis, anemia, and more erythroid progenitors in the blood stream. While patients affected by these disorders show definitive altered parameters related to erythropoiesis, the relationship between the degree of anemia, altered erythropoiesis, and dysfunctional iron metabolism has not been investigated in both α‐thalassemia carriers (ATC) and β‐thalassemia carriers (BTC). Here, we demonstrate that ATC have a significantly reduced hepcidin and increased soluble transferrin receptor levels but relatively normal hematological findings. In contrast, BTC have several hematological parameters significantly different from controls, including increased soluble transferrin receptor and erythropoietin levels. These changes in both groups suggest an altered balance between erythropoiesis and iron metabolism. The index sTfR/log ferritin and (hepcidin/ferritin)/sTfR are, respectively, increased and reduced relative to controls, proportional to the severity of each thalassemia group. In conclusion, we showed in this study, for the first time in the literature, that thalassemia carriers have altered iron metabolism and erythropoiesis.
Spacing Behavior of a Non‐Larder‐Hoarding Tamiasciurus: A Study of Mearns's Squirrels in Xeric Coniferous Forests
Authors: Ramos‐Lara Nicolás , Koprowski John L.
Published: October 2014

In ecosystems with seasonal fluctuations in food supply many species use two strategies to store food: larder hoarding and scatter hoarding. However, because species at different geographic locations may experience distinct environmental conditions, differences in hoarding behavior may occur. Tree squirrels in the genus Tamiasciurus display variation in hoarding behavior. Whereas red (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) and Douglas's (Tamiasciurus douglasii) squirrels in mesic coniferous forests defend territories centered around larder hoards maintaining non‐overlapping home ranges, red squirrels in deciduous forests defend small scatter‐hoarded caches of cones maintaining overlapping home ranges. As in other rodent species, variation in hoarding behavior appears to influence the spacing behavior of red and Douglas's squirrels. In contrast, Mearns's squirrels (Tamiasciurus mearnsi) in xeric coniferous forests neither rely on larder hoards nor appear to display territorial behavior. Unfortunately, little is known about the ecology of this southernmost Tamiasciurus. Using radiotelemetry, we estimated home‐range size, overlap, and maximum distance traveled from nest to examine the spacing behavior of Mearns's squirrels. Similar to scatter‐hoarding rodents, maximum distance traveled from nest was greater for males during mating season, whereas those of females were similar year round. Although no seasonal differences were detected, male home ranges were three times larger during mating season, whereas those of females were smaller and displayed a minor variation between seasons. Home ranges were overlapped year round but contrary to our expectations, overlap was greater during mating season for both sexes, with no detectable relationship between male home‐range size and the number of females overlapped during mating season. Overall, the results appear to support our hypothesis that in the absence of larder hoards, the spacing behavior of Mearns's squirrels should be different from larder‐hoarding congeners and more similar to scatter‐hoarding rodents.
Inverse Correlation Between Helicobacter pylori Colonization and Obesity in a Cohort of Inner City Children
Authors: Vo Hanh D. , Goli Sridhar , Gill Rupinder , Anderson Virginia , Stefanov Dimitre G. , Xu Jiliu , Kulsum‐Mecci Nazia , Schwarz Steven M. , Rabinowitz Simon S.
Published: October 2014

Background

Recently, publications in adults and children have documented a potential role of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) in decreasing the likelihood of obesity. The present study compares the prevalence of H. pylori colonization between obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 95th percentile) and healthy weight (BMI ≥ 5th to <85th percentiles) children seen at an inner city medical center in the United States.

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed clinical features, BMI, and gastric histology of consecutive children aged 1–18 years undergoing an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. BMI percentile was calculated for age and gender. Helicobacter pylori colonization was determined by histopathologic identification of the organism. Multiple logistic regression was employed to measure the association between BMI and H. pylori colonization, controlling for baseline age, gender, and presenting symptoms.

Results

Among 340 patients (51.5% female, mean age of 10.5 ± 4.7 years), 98 (29%) were obese and 173 (51%) were healthy weight. The H. pylori colonization rate of the entire cohort was 18.5% (95% CI = 14.7–23.0%). Among obese children, 10% had H. pylori colonization compared to 21% of the healthy weight children (RR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.1–4.0). Conversely, 39% of noncolonized children, but only 21% of the infected children, were obese (RR = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.1–3.3). Multivariate analysis revealed that being colonized with H. pylori is associated with a 50% reduction in the odds of being obese (adjusted OR = 0.5, 95% CI = 0.2–1.0).

Conclusions

Our findings in a North American cohort are in agreement with studies from Asia and Europe suggesting that H. pylori infection decreases the prevalence of obesity in children. Further work to characterize the extent and nature of this relationship is warranted.
Enhanced Expression of Indoleamine 2,3‐Dioxygenase in Helicobacter pylori‐Infected Human Gastric Mucosa Modulates Th1/Th2 Pathway and Interleukin 17 Production
Authors: Larussa Tiziana , Leone Isabella , Suraci Evelina , Nazionale Immacolata , Procopio Teresa , Conforti Francesco , Abenavoli Ludovico , Hribal Marta L. , Imeneo Maria , Luzza Francesco
Published: October 2014

Background

Indoleamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO) interferes with immune responses. Host immune response against Helicobacter pylori is involved in the persistence of the infection and its related diseases.

Aim

To investigate the role of IDO in the regulation of Th1/Th2 and Th17 pathways in H. pylori infection.

Methods

Gastric biopsy samples were taken from 42 patients who underwent endoscopy and evaluated for the expression of IDO by Western blotting. Gastritis was assessed by the Sydney system score. In a subgroup of patients, biopsies were treated with the IDO inhibitor 1‐methyl‐L‐tryptophan and the expression of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) mRNA and that of T‐bet, interleukin‐17 (IL‐17), and IL‐4 determined by real‐time PCR and Western blotting, respectively.

Results

IDO expression was found to be enhanced (p = .001) in gastric biopsies from H. pylori‐infected (n = 18) compared with uninfected (n = 24) patients. Levels of IDO expression were inversely related to the gastritis score (r = −.684, p = .002) in H. pylori‐infected gastric mucosa, but not in uninfected mucosa. In gastric biopsy cultures, IDO inhibition increased the expression of IFN‐γ mRNA (p = .014), T‐bet (p = .045), and IL‐17 (p = .02) while decreasing that of IL‐4 (p = .048).

Conclusions

In H. pylori‐infected human gastric mucosa, an enhanced expression of IDO is capable of modulating Th1/Th2 and Th17 pathways. This mechanism lowers gastric inflammation, possibly contributing to the persistence of H. pylori. Targeting the IDO pathway may be a new strategy for modulating H. pylori‐induced mucosal immune response.
Using participatory methods to enhance patient‐centred mental health care in a federally qualified community health center serving a Mexican American farmworker community
Authors: Ingram Maia , Schachter Ken A. , Guernsey de Zapien Jill , Herman Patricia M. , Carvajal Scott C.
Published: October 2014

Background

Mexican American farmworkers experience high rates of mental health conditions; however, it is difficult for them to access care. Patient‐centred care is a systems‐wide approach to improving the delivery of services for diverse populations in the primary care setting.

Aim

We describe the application of community‐based participatory research methods to assess and address gaps in perceptions of mental health care between providers and migrant workers living in a US–Mexico Border community.

Setting

A federally qualified health centre (FQHC) serving a community of approximately 60 000 agricultural workers who live in Yuma County and harvest vegetables during the winter season.

Design

We conducted patient focus groups (n = 64) and FQHC staff interviews (n = 16) to explore attributes and dimensions of patient‐centred mental health care.

Results

Patients and staff both prioritized increased access to mental health care and patient‐centred care, while patients were more concerned with interpersonal care and providers with coordination of care. All participants stressed the relationship between life events and mental health and the centrality of family in care. Patients also emphasized the importance of a good attitude, the ability to solve problems, positive family relationships and reliance on faith. Patients suggested that the FQHC inform patients about mental health resources, provide community informational talks to address stigma, and offer support groups.

Discussion

The participatory approach of this qualitative study resulted in a wealth of data regarding patient preferences that will enable the FQHC to develop protocols and training to provide patient‐centred mental health‐care services for their community.
Information needs of public health students
Authors: Lê Mê‐Linh
Published: October 2014

Background

The number of public health degrees and programmes is growing rapidly. This means that a diverse and multidisciplinary group of students are in need of expert library services to navigate the complicated world of public health information.

Objective

To better understand the information needs of public health students, a group that has not previously been studied in the information needs literature.

Methods

An online survey.

Results

Of the 153 students, 38 responded (25% response rate). Their responses indicated a strong need for more tailored library instruction sessions at the point of need as opposed to general stand‐alone sessions offered at the beginning of a term. It was also found that many students were unaware of public health specific resources available that could greatly aid them in their information needs. Suggestions were made on how to improve the library subject guide, specifically in the areas of more instructions related to locating hard to find resources (e.g. statistics, grey literature), and direct linking to resources (e.g. databases and relevant articles).

Conclusion

The information needs of public health students are diverse and complex. It is imperative that the library has a solid understanding of their needs and is able to offer them targeted and relevant library services.
Plasma Pro‐C3 (N‐terminal type III collagen propeptide) predicts fibrosis progression in patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Nielsen Mette J. , Veidal Sanne S. , Karsdal Morten A. , Ørsnes‐Leeming Diana J. , Vainer Ben , Gardner Stephen D. , Hamatake Robert , Goodman Zachary D. , Schuppan Detlef , Patel Keyur
Published: October 2014

Background & Aims

Fibrogenesis results in release of certain extracellular matrix protein fragments into the circulation. We evaluated the diagnostic and prognostic performance of two novel serological markers, the precisely cleaved N‐terminal propeptide of type III collagen (Pro‐C3) and a peptide of helical collagen type III degradation (C3M), in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients.

Method

Pro‐C3 and C3M were measured by ELISA in plasma from CHC patients (n = 194) from a prior phase II antifibrotic trial (NCT00244751). Plasma samples and paired liver biopsies were obtained at baseline and after 1‐year. Patients were stratified according to Ishak stages 2‐4. Internal cross‐validation was performed by bootstrap analysis.

Results

Pro‐C3 levels were significantly higher in CHC patients in Ishak stage 4 compared to stage 2 (P < 0.001) or 3 (P < 0.01). Pro‐C3 could significantly distinguish moderate (stage 4) from mild fibrosis (stage 2/3) (AUC = 0.72, P < 0.001). Importantly, an overall significance in Pro‐C3 (P = 0.007) levels was observed between the groups of −1, 0, +1 and +2 change in Ishak stage at 12 months. Pro‐C3 was significantly increased in group +1 (P = 0.030) and +2 (P = 0.021) compared to group 0. No significant differences were observed for C3M. In multivariate analysis, only baseline Pro‐C3, but not FibroTest, had an independent association with fibrosis progression.

Conclusions

Pro‐C3 is a useful test to predict fibrogenesis and monitor disease progression. Moreover, it could differentiate mild from moderate disease. Pro‐C3 may become a promising blood parameter be included in future studies for monitoring disease progression and eventually for evaluation of potential antifibrotic therapies.
A comparative study of Laryngeal Mask Airway size 1 vs i‐gel size 1 in infants undergoing daycare procedures
Authors: Pant Deepanjali , Koul Archna , Sharma Bimla , Sood Jayashree
Published: October 2014

Background

The i‐gel size 1 is a relatively new, single use, second generation supraglottic airway device. This prospective, randomized, observational study compares the suitability of the i‐gel size 1 with the classical Laryngeal Mask Airway (cLaryngeal Mask Airway) size 1 in pediatric patients undergoing elective daycare procedures.

Methods

Forty ASA I and II children (2–5 kg body weight) were randomized to two groups of 20 each, to receive either the i‐gel or the cLaryngeal Mask Airway as an airway device. The primary outcome variable was oropharyngeal seal pressure (OSP). We also assessed ease of insertion, number of insertion attempts, time taken for successful insertion and any intra‐operative complications.

Results

Demographic data did not differ between the two groups. The OSP with the i‐gel was 22.30 ± 4.72 cm H2O as compared to 18.05 ± 1.95 cm H2O with the cLaryngeal Mask Airway and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.001). Displacement of the airway device following change of position was reported less often with the i‐gel as compared to the cLaryngeal Mask Airway [n = 1 (5%) vs n = 5 (35%), P = 0.04]. There were no major complications with either device and rest of all the variables were comparable with both the devices.

Conclusions

The OSP of the i‐gel size 1 was higher than that of the cLaryngeal Mask Airway. This was statistically significant, although may not be of clinical significance. The i‐gel size 1 is less prone to displacement during position changes. However, being a preliminary study carried out on a small number of patients, further trials are warranted to come to any definite conclusion.
Elevated compartmentalization of Na+ into vacuoles improves salt and cold stress tolerance in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas)
Authors: Fan Weijuan , Deng Gaifang , Wang Hongxia , Zhang Hongxia , Zhang Peng
Published: October 2014

Salinity and low temperature are the main limiting factors for sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) growth and agricultural productivity. Various studies have shown that plant NHX‐type antiporter plays a crucial role in regulating plant tolerance to salt stress by intracellular Na+ compartmentalization. The Arabidopsis thaliana AtNHX1 gene that encodes a vacuolar Na+/H+ antiporter was introduced into the sweet potato cultivar Xushu‐22 by Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation to confer abiotic stress tolerance. Stable insertion of AtNHX1 into the sweet potato genome and its expression was confirmed by Southern blot and reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). A remarkably higher Na+/H+ exchange activity of tonoplast membrane from transgenic sweet potato lines (NOE) in comparison with wild‐type (WT) plants confirmed the vacuolar antiporter function in mediating Na+/H+ exchange. Under salt stress, NOE plants accumulated higher Na+ and K+ levels in their tissues compared with WT plants, maintaining high K+/Na+ ratios. Consequently, NOE plants showed enhanced protection against cell damage due to the increased proline accumulation, preserved cell membrane integrity, enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging (e.g. increased superoxide dismutase activity), and reduced H2O2 and malondialdehyde (MDA) production. Moreover, the transgenic plants showed improved cold tolerance through multiple mechanisms of action, revealing the first molecular evidence for NHX1 function in cold response. The transgenic plants showed better biomass production and root yield under stressful conditions. These findings demonstrate that overexpressing AtNHX1 in sweet potato renders the crop tolerant to both salt and cold stresses, providing a greater capacity for the use of AtNHX1 in improving crop performance under combined abiotic stress conditions.
Validation of Bovine Oestrous‐Specific Synthetic Molecules with Trained Scent Dogs; Similarities Between Natural and Synthetic Oestrous Smell
Authors: Fischer‐Tenhagen C , Johnen D , Le Danvic C , Gatien J , Salvetti P , Tenhagen BA , Heuwieser W
Published: October 2014

Contents

Oestrous detection is crucial for successful dairy cow reproduction. Bulls identify cows in oestrus by oestrous‐specific odours especially in urine and vaginal fluid. These have been used to train dogs to detect cows in heat. To improve and simplify the dog training, a spray containing synthetic oestrous molecules was developed. The objective of this study was to test the spray on similarities to the natural substance thus to assess its suitability as a training substance for heat detection dogs. Ten privately owned dogs of various breeds were trained. Dogs should be trained either to differentiate natural vaginal fluid from cows in oestrus and dioestrus (n = 5), or spray with or without synthetic oestrous molecules (n = 5). Dogs trained on natural fluid and on spray could detect the oestrous odour they had been trained on with an overall accuracy of 69.0% and 82.4%, respectively (p = 0.019). To validate the synthetic molecules, dogs trained with synthetic molecules had to detect oestrous odour in natural fluid without further training (accuracy 37.6%). Dogs trained on natural fluid detected the synthetic molecules with an accuracy of 50.0% (50% vs 37.4%, p < 0.05). Dogs can recognize natural vaginal fluid from cows in oestrus after they have been trained with synthetic oestrous molecules, but accuracy needs to be improved.
Reticulate reef patterns – antecedent karst versus self‐organization
Authors: Schlager Wolfgang , Purkis Sam
Published: October 2014

Reticulate ridges of reefs and sediment in Holocene lagoons are usually interpreted as an inheritance of antecedent karst topography. Satellite imagery served as a template for integrating plan‐view geometry with published data from coring, drilling and seismic surveys to test the antecedent‐karst hypothesis. The link between karst morphology and overlying reef patterns can be demonstrated convincingly for a rather limited number of examples, particularly those on a substrate of tower karst with high relief. On very young limestones, doline karst with reticulate patterns develops very slowly because of the high porosity. Moreover, karst control can be ruled out for the significant number of reticulate reefs that are founded on terrigenous sediment or on demonstrably flat pre‐Holocene rock surfaces. One likely cause of reticulate patterns is biotic self‐organization that has been shown to generate reticulate and labyrinthic patterns of mussel beds on tidal flats and tree cover of arid ecosystems. Another pathway to reticulate reefs may be the colonization of reticulate hydrodynamic bedforms by reef builders. Thus, reticulate patterns of Holocene reef‐sediment ridges are highly ambiguous indicators of antecedent karst.
Electrochemical characteristics of plasma-etched black silicon as anodes for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Lee Gibaek , Schweizer Stefan L. , Wehrspohn Ralf B.
Published: October 2014

Nanostructured silicon as an anode material for Li-ion batteries is produced for the first time by inductively coupled plasma–plasma etching of Si wafers in the black silicon regime. The microscopic structure strongly resembles other types of nanostructured silicon, with a well-arranged nanostructure possessing a sufficient porosity for accommodating large volume expansion. Despite these features, however, a high first-cycle irreversible capacity loss and a poor cycle life are observed. The main reason for these poor features is the formation of a thick solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer related to the surface condition of the pristine nanostructured black silicon (b-Si) electrode. Therefore, the cycle life of the b-Si electrode is heavily influenced by the constant reformation of the SEI layer depending upon the surface composition in spite of the presence of nanostructured Si. In the fast lithiation experiments, the nanostructure region of the b-Si electrode is detached from the Si substrate owing to the kinetics difference between the lithium ion diffusion and the electron injection and phase transformation in the nanostructured Si region. This means that more Si substrate is involved in lithiation at high current rates. It is therefore important to maintain balance in the chemical kinetics during the lithiation of nanostructured Si electrodes with a Si substrate.