bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exosome derived from epigallocatechin gallate treated breast cancer cells suppresses tumor growth by inhibiting tumor-associated macrophage infiltration and M2 polarization
Authors: Jang Ji-Young , Lee Jong-Kuen , Jeon Yoon-Kyung , Kim Chul-Woo
Published: September 2013

Background

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) play an important role in tumor microenvironment. Particularly, M2 macrophages contribute to tumor progression, depending on the expression of NF-κB. Tumor-derived exosomes can modulate tumor microenvironment by transferring miRNAs to immune cells. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) has well known anti-tumor effects; however, no data are available on the influence of EGCG on communication with cancer cells and TAM.

Methods

Murine breast cancer cell lines, 4T1, was used for in vivo and ex vivo studies. Exosome was extracted from EGCG-treated 4T1 cells, and the change of miRNAs was screened using microarray. Tumor cells or TAM isolated from murine tumor graft were incubated with exosomes derived from EGCG-treated and/or miR-16 inhibitor-transfected 4T1 cells. Chemokines for monocytes (CSF-1 and CCL-2), cytokines both with high (IL-6 and TGF-β) and low (TNF-α) expression in M2 macrophages, and molecules in NF-κB pathway (IKKα and Iκ-B) were evaluated by RT-qPCR or western blot.

Results

EGCG suppressed tumor growth in murine breast cancer model, which was associated with decreased TAM and M2 macrophage infiltration. Expression of chemokine for monocytes (CSF-1 and CCL-2) were low in tumor cells from EGCG-treated mice, and cytokines of TAM was skewed from M2- into M1-like phenotype by EGCG as evidenced by decreased IL-6 and TGF-β and increased TNF-α. Ex vivo incubation of isolated tumor cells with EGCG inhibited the CSF-1 and CCL-2 expression. Ex vivo incubation of TAM with exosomes from EGCG-treated 4T1 cells led to IKKα suppression and concomitant I-κB accumulation; increase of IL-6 and TGF-β; and, decrease of TNF-α. EGCG up-regulated miR-16 in 4T1 cells and in the exosomes. Treatment of tumor cells or TAM with exosomes derived from EGCG-treated and miR-16-knock-downed 4T1 cells restored the above effects on chemokines, cytokines, and NF-κB pathway elicited by EGCG-treated exosomes.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that EGCG up-regulates miR-16 in tumor cells, which can be transferred to TAM via exosomes and inhibits TAM infiltration and M2 polarization. We suggest a novel mechanism by which EGCG exerts anti-tumor activity via regulation of TAM in tumor microenvironment.
Incidence and economical effects of pneumonia in the older population living in French nursing homes: design and methods of the INCUR study
Authors: Demougeot Laurent , Rolland Yves , Gérard Stéphane , Pennetier Delphine , Duboué Marilyne , Vellas Bruno , Cesari Matteo
Published: September 2013

Background

Among the most burdensome clinical conditions occurring in older persons, respiratory infections are particularly relevant. In fact, the onset of pneumonias is associated with a significant worsening of the individual’s global health status and significant increase of healthcare costs. The clinical and economical negative consequences of pneumonia may be particularly evident among the frailest groups of elders, in particular those living in nursing home. Nevertheless, specific research on incidence and economical effects of pneumonia in nursing homes residents is still scarce. In the present article, we present the rationale, the design and the methods of the “Incidence of pNeumonia and related ConseqUences in nursing home Resident (INCUR) study, specifically aimed at filling some of the gaps currently present in the field.

Methods/design

INCUR is an observational longitudinal study recruiting 800 residents across 13 randomly selected nursing homes in France. Multidimensional evaluations of participants are conducted at the baseline, mid-term (at 6 months), and end of the study (at 12 months) visits in order to measure and follow-up their physical function, nutrition, cognition, depression, quality of life, and healthcare costs. Incident pneumonia as well as the onset/recurrence of other major health-related events are monitored during the study follow-up.

Discussion

The INCUR study will provide valuable information about older persons living in nursing homes. Results from INCUR study may constitute the basis for the development of future preventive campaigns against pneumonia and its consequences.
Trans-chalcone and quercetin down-regulate fatty acid synthase gene expression and reduce ergosterol content in the human pathogenic dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum
Authors: Bitencourt Tamires Aparecida , Komoto Tatiana Takahasi , Massaroto Bruna Gabriele , Miranda Carlos Eduardo Saraiva , Beleboni Rene Oliveira , Marins Mozart , Fachin Ana Lúcia
Published: September 2013

Background

Fatty acid synthase (FAS) is a promising antifungal target due to its marked structural differences between fungal and mammalian cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antifungal activity of flavonoids described in the scientific literature as FAS inhibitors (quercetin, trans-chalcone, ellagic acid, luteolin, galangin, and genistein) against the dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum and their effects on fatty acid and ergosterol synthesis.

Methods

The antifungal activity of the natural products was tested by the microdilution assay for determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The effect of the compounds on the cell membrane was evaluated using a protoplast regeneration assay. Ergosterol content was quantified by spectrophotometry. Inhibition of FAS by flavonoids was evaluated by an enzymatic assay to determine IC50 values. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to measure transcription levels of the FAS1 and ERG6 genes involved in fatty acid and ergosterol biosynthesis, respectively, during exposure of T. rubrum to the flavonoids tested.

Results

The flavonoids quercetin and trans-chalcone were effective against T. rubrum, with MICs of 125 and 7.5 μg/mL for the wild-type strain (MYA3108) and of 63 and 1.9 μg/mL for the ABC transporter mutant strain (ΔTruMDR2), respectively. The MICs of the fluconazole and cerulenin controls were 63 and 125 μg/mL for the wild-type strain and 30 and 15 μg/mL for the mutant strain, respectively. Quercetin and trans-chalcone also reduced ergosterol content in the two strains, indicating that interference with fatty acid and ergosterol synthesis caused cell membrane disruption. The MIC of quercetin reduced the number of regenerated protoplasts by 30.26% (wild-type strain) and by 91.66% (mutant strain). Half the MIC (0.5 MIC) of quercetin did not reduce the number of regenerated wild-type fungal colonies, but caused a 36.19% reduction in the number of mutant strain protoplasts. In contrast, the MIC and 0.5 MIC of trans-chalcone and cerulenin drastically reduced protoplast regeneration in the two strains. The FAS1 gene was repressed in the presence of MICs of quercetin, trans-chalcone, fluconazole and cerulenin. The ERG6 gene was induced in the presence of MICs of fluconazole and cerulenin and was repressed in the presence of MICs of trans-chalcone and quercetin. Trans-chalcone and quercetin inhibited the enzymatic activity of FAS, with IC50 values of 68.23 and 17.1 μg/mL, respectively.

Conclusion

Trans-chalcone and quercetin showed antifungal activity against T. rubrum, reducing ergosterol levels and modulating the expression of FAS1 and ERG6.
Qualities of an effective teacher: what do medical teachers think?
Authors: Singh Simerjit , Pai Dinker R , Sinha Nirmal K , Kaur Avneet , Soe Htoo Htoo Kyaw , Barua Ankur
Published: September 2013

Background

Effective teaching in medicine is essential to produce good quality doctors. A number of studies have attempted to identify the characteristics of an effective teacher. However, most of literature regarding an effective medical teacher includes student ratings or expert opinions. Furthermore, interdisciplinary studies for the same are even fewer. We did a cross-sectional study of the characteristics of effective teachers from their own perspective across medicine and dentistry disciplines.

Methods

A questionnaire comprising of 24 statements relating to perceived qualities of effective teachers was prepared and used. The study population included the faculty of medicine and dentistry at the institution. Respondents were asked to mark their response to each statement based on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from strongly disagree to strongly agree. These statements were grouped these into four main subgroups, viz. Class room behaviour/instructional delivery, interaction with students, personal qualities and professional development, and analysed with respect to discipline, cultural background, gender and teaching experience using SPSS v 13.0. For bivariate analysis, t-test and one way ANOVA were used. Multiple linear regression for multivariate analysis was used to control confounding variables.

Results

The top three desirable qualities of an effective teacher in our study were knowledge of subject, enthusiasm and communication skills. Faculty with longer teaching experienced ranked classroom behaviour/instructional delivery higher than their less experienced counterparts. There was no difference of perspectives based on cultural background, gender or discipline (medicine and dentistry).

Conclusion

This study found that the faculty perspectives were similar, regardless of the discipline, gender and cultural background. Furthermore, on review of literature similar findings are seen in studies done in allied medical and non-medical fields. These findings support common teacher training programs for the teachers of all disciplines, rather than having separate training programs exclusively for medical teachers. Logistically, this would make it much easier to arrange such programs in universities or colleges with different faculties or disciplines.
Assessing the implementation of performance management of health care workers in Uganda
Authors: Lutwama George William , Roos Janetta Hendrika , Dolamo Bethabile Lovely
Published: September 2013

Background

The performance management concept is relatively new to the Ugandan health sector. Uganda has been implementing health sector reforms for nearly two decades. The reforms included the introduction of the results-oriented management in the public sector and the decentralisation of the management of health care workers from central to local governments. This study examined the implementation of performance management of health care workers in order to propose strategies for improvement.

Methods

The study was a descriptive survey carried out in the Kumi, Mbale, Sironko and Tororo districts and utilising mixed research methodology. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data from the health care workers. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect qualitative data from the health service managers. The sample for the quantitative method was selected using stratified random sampling. Purposive sampling was used to select health service managers. Quantitative data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 18.0). Qualitative data were categorised according to the themes and analysed manually.

Results

The findings show that to some extent performance management is implemented in the health sector; however, there were loopholes in its implementation. There were inadequacies in setting performance targets and performance management planning was hardly done. Although many health care workers had job descriptions, the performance indicators and standards were not clearly defined and known to all workers and managers. Additionally the schedules for performance assessments were not always adhered to. There were limited prospects for career progression, inadequate performance feedback and poor rewarding mechanisms.

Conclusions

Performance management of health care workers is inadequately done in the districts. Performance management is a key component of attempts to improve health sector outcomes. As a result of this study, suggestions to enhance health sector performance management in the districts have been put forward. The authors are optimistic that if these suggestions are implemented, the performance of health care workers is likely to improve.
CuO hollow nanosphere-catalyzed cross-coupling of aryl iodides with thiols
Authors: Woo Hyunje , Mohan Balaji , Heo Eunjung , Park Ji Chan , Song Hyunjoon , Park Kang Hyun
Published: September 2013

New functionalized CuO hollow nanospheres on acetylene black (CuO/AB) and on charcoal (CuO/C) have been found to be effective catalysts for C-S bond formation under microwave irradiation. CuO catalysts showed high catalytic activity with a wide variety of substituents which include electron-rich and electron-poor aryl iodides with thiophenols by the addition of two equivalents of K2CO3 as base in the absence of ligands.
‘Suspect molecular signature’ in blood as the indicator of undiagnosed breast cancer, cancer risk and targeted prevention
Authors: Debald Manuel , Yeghiazaryan Kristina , Cebioglu Melanie , Kuhn Walther , Schild Hans H , Golubnitschaja Olga
Published: September 2013

Background

Breast cancer is a multifactorial disease with the highest incidence rates amongst all cancer types. Further, high levels of circulating tumour cells are a characteristic of breast cancer patients demonstrating a particular predisposition to the development of breast cancer metastatic disease. Actual diagnostic approaches are frequently unable to recognise early stages of tumour development which impairs individual outcomes. In contrast, predictive and preventive risk assessment and early diagnosis may lead to full recovery after surgical resection. Recently, the authors have reported about the construction of diagnostic windows, which could influence the molecular diagnostics of breast cancer.

Material and methods

In a previous study, diagnostic windows for breast cancer risk assessment were analysed. Women with non-malignant breast diseases demonstrating molecular profiles similar to those of breast cancer patients were enrolled into this follow-up study. In the interviews, for patients identified as predisposed to cancer, a specialised questionnaire has been set up to characterise individual risk factors and estimate their potential impacts on cancer onset and progression.

Results and conclusions

By utilising the technological tool of diagnostic windows, 13 individuals have been identified demonstrating molecular profiles typical for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. The current paper summarises the analytical results and makes statements to the application of the pathology-specific molecular profiles recognised as the technological tool for improved diagnostic approach, breast cancer risk assessment and preventive health care management. The necessity to create individual patient profiles and analyse the evolution of the molecular signature is justified for advanced medical services. Expert recommendations are provided to promote further developments in the field of advanced breast cancer management.
Efficacy of anakinra in gouty arthritis: a retrospective study of 40 cases
Authors: Ottaviani Sébastien , Moltó Anna , Ea Hang-Korng , Neveu Séverine , Gill Ghislaine , Brunier Lauren , Palazzo Elisabeth , Meyer Olivier , Richette Pascal , Bardin Thomas , Allanore Yannick , Lioté Frédéric , Dougados Maxime , Dieudé Philippe
Published: September 2013

Introduction

Gout is a common arthritis that occurs particularly in patients who frequently have associated comorbidities that limit the use of conventional therapies. The main mechanism of crystal-induced inflammation is interleukin-1 production by activation of the inflammasome. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and tolerance of anakinra in gouty patients.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter retrospective review of patients receiving anakinra for gouty arthritis. We reviewed the response to treatment, adverse events and relapses.

Results

We examined data for 40 gouty patients (32 men; mean age 60.0 ± 13.9 years) receiving anakinra. Mean disease duration was 8.7 ± 8.7 years. All patients showed contraindications to and/or failure of at least two conventional therapies. Most (36; 90%) demonstrated good response to anakinra. Median pain on a 100-mm visual analog scale was rapidly decreased (73.5 (70.0 to 80.0) to 25.0 (20.0 to 32.5) mm, P <0.0001), as was median C-reactive protein (CRP) level (130.5 (55.8 to 238.8) to 16.0 (5.0 to 29.5) mg/l, P <0.0001). After a median follow-up of 7.0 (2.0 to 13.0) months, relapse occurred in 13 patients after a median delay of 15.0 (10.0 to 70.0) days. Seven infectious events, mainly with long-term use of anakinra, were noted.

Conclusions

Anakinra may be efficient in gouty arthritis, is relatively well tolerated with short-term use, and could be a relevant option in managing gouty arthritis when conventional therapies are ineffective or contraindicated. Its long-term use could be limited by infectious complications.
Randomized Trial of Decongestive Lymphatic Therapy for the Treatment of Lymphedema in Women With Breast Cancer
Authors: Dayes Ian S. , Whelan Tim J. , Julian Jim A. , Parpia Sameer , Pritchard Kathleen I. , D'Souza David Paul , Kligman Lyn , Reise Donna , LeBlanc Linda , McNeely Margaret L. , Manchul Lee , Wiernikowski Jennifer , Levine Mark N.
Published: September 2013

Purpose

Because of its morbidity and chronicity, arm lymphedema remains a concerning complication of breast cancer treatment. Although massage-based decongestive therapy is often recommended, randomized trials have not consistently demonstrated benefit over more conservative measures.

Patients and Methods

Women previously treated for breast cancer with lymphedema were enrolled from six institutions. Volumes were calculated from circumference measurements. Patients with a minimum of 10% volume difference between their arms were randomly assigned to either compression garments (control) or daily manual lymphatic drainage and bandaging followed by compression garments (experimental). The primary outcome was percent reduction in excess arm volume from baseline to 6 weeks.

Results

A total of 103 women were randomly assigned, and 95 were evaluable. Mean reduction of excess arm volume was 29.0% in the experimental group and 22.6% in the control group (difference, 6.4%; 95% CI, −6.8% to 20.5%; P = .34). Absolute volume loss was 250 mL and 143 mL in the experimental and control groups, respectively (difference, 107 mL; 95% CI, 13 to 203 mL; P = .03). There was no difference between groups in the proportion of patients losing 50% or greater excess arm volume. Quality of life (Short Form-36 Health Survey) and arm function were not different between groups.

Conclusion

This trial was unable to demonstrate a significant improvement in lymphedema with decongestive therapy compared with a more conservative approach. The failure to detect a difference may have been a result of the relatively small size of our trial.
Advanced Diagnostic Breast Cancer Imaging: Variation and Patterns of Care in Washington State
Authors: Gold Laura S. , Buist Diana S.M. , Loggers Elizabeth T. , Etzioni Ruth , Kessler Larry , Ramsey Scott D. , Sullivan Sean D.
Published: September 2013

Use of breast MRI and other advanced imaging is increasing among patients newly diagnosed with breast cancer; individual patient and insurance-related factors are associated with receipt of these imaging tests.
Closing the Quality Loop: Facilitating Improvement in Oncology Practice Through Timely Access to Clinical Performance Indicators
Authors: Srigley John , Lankshear Sara , Brierley James , McGowan Thomas , Divaris Dimitrios , Yurcan Marta , Rossi Robin , Yardley Tim , King Mary Jane , Ross Jillian , Irish Jonathan , McLeod Robin , Sawka Carol
Published: September 2013

Complete cancer pathology reports are important for contemporary oncologic practice and for secondary users of pathology information, including tumor registries, health planners, epidemiologists, and others involved in quality-improvement activities and research.
Clinical Ethics Consultation in Oncology
Authors: Shuman Andrew G. , Montas Sacha M. , Barnosky Andrew R. , Smith Lauren B. , Fins Joseph J. , McCabe Mary S.
Published: September 2013

The authors review and describe clinical ethics consultations at two NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers to identify opportunities for systems improvement in clinical care and opportunities for staff education.
Childhood Cancer Survivors' Familiarity With and Opinions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
Authors: Warner Echo L. , Park Elyse R. , Stroup Antoinette , Kinney Anita Y. , Kirchhoff Anne C.
Published: September 2013

Childhood cancer survivors have a low level of familiarity with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) and are unaware of how it may affect them given their cancer history. These survivors require targeted education to increase knowledge about the ACA.
Addressing Tobacco Use in Patients With Cancer: A Survey of American Society of Clinical Oncology Members
Authors: Warren Graham W. , Marshall James R. , Cummings K. Michael , Toll Benjamin A. , Gritz Ellen R. , Hutson Alan , Dibaj Seyedeh , Herbst Roy , Mulshine James L. , Hanna Nasser , Dresler Carolyn A.
Published: September 2013

Among ASCO members who responded to an online survey about their practice patterns regarding tobacco, most believe that tobacco cessation is important and frequently assess tobacco at initial visit, but few provide cessation support.
Edgar Huntlyand the Regulation of the Senses
Authors: Ogden Emily
Published: September 2013

Controversy over Freudian approaches to Charles Brockden Brown’s Edgar Huntly (1799) has obscured the novel’s sensory politics. Psychoanalytic readers like Leslie Fiedler, in Love and Death in the American Novel (1960), discovered in Brown’s novel a striking confirmation of their theories because they were looking at a text in dialogue with psychoanalysis’s antecedents. By recovering these antecedents, the essay shows that states of insensibility like sleepwalking—which Fiedler takes as figures for the unconscious—in fact had social and political meanings that even postcolonial critiques of psychoanalytic readings have tended to miss. Psychoanalysis has its roots in animal magnetism, or mesmerism, a practice of mental healing that in Brown’s day presented “magnetic somnambulists” who entered a semiconscious state identical to natural sleepwalking. In this state, they had privileged access to knowledge, just as Clithero does in Edgar Huntly. By treating somnambulists as knowing figures, Brown’s novel, and animal magnetism itself, transvalued an eighteenth-century sensory pathology: insensibility. In a period when the ability to produce public knowledge and even to claim to be human flowed from having the right kind of nervous sensitivity, being called insensible—sensorially deficient— was a serious charge: it meant having one’s experiences discarded as fantasy or blankness. Treating insensible somnambulists as epistemically valuable rebuts the charge of blankness that clung to insensibility, as well as the social marginalization this charge portended for idiots, hysterics, and the sensorially disabled—a promising gesture that, in Edgar Huntly, finally runs aground in race.
Daam1a mediates asymmetric habenular morphogenesis by regulating dendritic and axonal outgrowth
Authors: Colombo Alicia , Palma Karina , Armijo Lorena , Mione Marina , Signore Iskra A. , Morales Camila , Guerrero Néstor , Meynard Margarita M. , Pérez Ramón , Suazo José , Marcelain Katherine , Briones Luis , Härtel Steffen , Wilson Stephen W. , Concha Miguel L.
Published: September 2013

Although progress has been made in resolving the genetic pathways that specify neuronal asymmetries in the brain, little is known about genes that mediate the development of structural asymmetries between neurons on left and right. In this study, we identify daam1a as an asymmetric component of the signalling pathways leading to asymmetric morphogenesis of the habenulae in zebrafish. Daam1a is a member of the Formin family of actin-binding proteins and the extent of Daam1a expression in habenular neuron dendrites mirrors the asymmetric growth of habenular neuropil between left and right. Local loss and gain of Daam1a function affects neither cell number nor subtype organisation but leads to a decrease or increase of neuropil, respectively. Daam1a therefore plays a key role in the asymmetric growth of habenular neuropil downstream of the pathways that specify asymmetric cellular domains in the habenulae. In addition, Daam1a mediates the development of habenular efferent connectivity as local loss and gain of Daam1a function impairs or enhances, respectively, the growth of habenular neuron terminals in the interpeduncular nucleus. Abrogation of Daam1a disrupts the growth of both dendritic and axonal processes and results in disorganised filamentous actin and α-tubulin. Our results indicate that Daam1a plays a key role in asymmetric habenular morphogenesis mediating the growth of dendritic and axonal processes in dorsal habenular neurons.
Genome-wide shRNA screening to identify factors mediating Gata6 repression in mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Cooper Sarah , Brockdorff Neil
Published: September 2013

The use of whole-genome pooled shRNA libraries in loss-of-function screening in tissue culture models provides an effective means to identify novel factors acting in pathways of interest. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) offer a unique opportunity to study processes involved in stem cell pluripotency and differentiation. Here, we report a genome-wide shRNA screen in ESCs to identify novel components involved in repression of the Gata6 locus, using a cell viability-based screen, which offers the benefits of stable shRNA integration and a robust and simple protocol for hit identification. Candidate factors identified were enriched for transcription factors and included known Polycomb proteins and other chromatin-modifying factors. We identified the protein Bcor, which is known to associate in complexes with the Polycomb protein Ring1B, and verified its importance in Gata6 repression in ESCs. Potential further applications of such a screening strategy could allow the identification of factors important for regulation of gene expression and pluripotency.
Developing insights into cardiac regeneration
Authors: Christoffels Vincent M. , Pu William T.
Published: September 2013

Owing to its intrinsic beauty and biomedical importance, the heart has been the focus of intensive research. The recent EMBO/EMBL-sponsored symposium ‘Cardiac Biology: From Development to Regeneration’ gathered cardiovascular scientists from across the globe to discuss the latest advances in our understanding of the development and growth of the heart, and application of these advances to improving the limited innate regenerative capacity of the mammalian heart. Here, we summarize some of the exciting results and themes that emerged from the meeting.
Thermodynamics of a Liquid-like Spin State in Molecule-based Magnets with Geometric Frustrations
Authors: Nakazawa Yasuhiro , Yamashita Satoshi
Published: September 2013

We review novel thermodynamic properties of κ-(BEDT-TTF)2Cu2(CN)3 and EtMe3Sb[Pd(dmit)2]2, where BEDT-TTF stands for bisethylenedithiotetrathiafulvalene and dmit stands for 1,3-dithiole-2-thione-4,5-dithiolate unveiled via single-crystal calorimetry. These compounds are organic dimer-based Mott insulators with a two-dimensional triangular lattice, where electron correlations produce localized radical spins on each molecular dimer. Néel-type magnetic orderings are prohibited by geometric frustrations and strong quantum mechanical fluctuations. The spin orientation of localized π electron fluctuates like a liquid even at zero energy, and the so-called spin-liquid (SL) ground state appears in them. We have performed heat capacity measurements down to extremely low temperatures and observed that the low-temperature heat capacities show a gapless character, evidenced by the finite electronic heat capacity coefficient, γ. Although the charge-transport properties of these compounds are insulating, the thermodynamic parameters, which reflect the low-energy excitations from the liquid ground state, resemble those of typical metallic compounds with Fermi-liquid characteristics. The magnitude of the γ was scaled with the magnetic susceptibility extrapolated down to T = 0. The realization of the unusual magnetic state coupled with the charge degree of freedom is suggested by several other experiments in addition to the heat capacity measurements. Herein we review thermodynamic discussions based on the experiments reported up to now to clarify the novelty of this magnetic ground state.
A Continuous Fluorometric Assay for Trypsin Based on Melittin and the Noncovalent-binding-induced Pyrene Excimer
Authors: Xu Na , Li Yue , Li Hong-Wei , Wu Yuqing
Published: September 2013

A continuous fluorometric assay system based on melittin and a pyrene derivative 1 for trypsin and its inhibitor screening is successfully developed by taking advantage of the noncovalent-binding-induced pyrene excimer. The 1–melittin assembly and its disassembly after further addition of trypsin are confirmed by the fluorescence changes at 475 nm. Such a system can be applied to other proteases of melittin, and essentially, the concept based on the noncovalent-binding-induced continuous fluorometric assay can be extended to other biochemical analyses.
On the intrinsic disorder status of the major players in programmed cell death pathways
Authors: Uversky Alexey V , Xue Bin , Peng Zhenling , Kurgan Lukasz , Uversky Vladimir N
Published: September 2013

Earlier computational and bioinformatics analysis of several large protein datasets across 28 species showed that proteins involved in regulation and execution of programmed cell death (PCD) possess substantial amounts of intrinsic disorder. Based on the comprehensive analysis of these datasets by a wide array of modern bioinformatics tools it was concluded that disordered regions of PCD-related proteins are involved in a multitude of biological functions and interactions with various partners, possess numerous posttranslational modification sites, and have specific evolutionary patterns (Peng et al. 2013). This study extends our previous work by providing information on the intrinsic disorder status of some of the major players of the three major PCD pathways: apoptosis, autophagy, and necroptosis. We also present a detailed description of the disorder status and interactomes of selected proteins that are involved in the p53-mediated apoptotic signaling pathways.
Consumer Favorites and the Design of News
Authors: Xiang Yi , Soberman David
Published: September 2013

The objective of this paper is to better understand the factors that competitive news providers consider to design or deliver news programmes. The focus is broadcast news where, in any programming time period, a viewer watches (or consumes) one programme. We assume that each viewer is interested in a limited set of topics and that her utility only comes from the “most interesting” news she observes. The key questions we address are as follows: (a) Should firms adopt designs that facilitate the delivery of more information in their news programmes? (b) Does the decision of firms to implement such strategies depend on the complexity of the news programme (i.e., the number of news stories covered in the news product)? (c) How do such strategies influence competition? We show that firms may or may not benefit by providing better-designed news. The incentive to do this is strongly affected by the complexity of the news product and the intensity of competition between news providers.

This paper was accepted by J. Miguel Villas-Boas, marketing.
Odonata diversity of the middle and lower reaches of the Red River basin, Yunnan, China
Authors: Chen Jin , Yu Xin
Published: September 2013

Eighty six species of Odonata are recorded from the middle and lower reaches of the Red River basin. Archineura hetaerinoides is recorded from China for the first time. Five genera and five species are new to Yunnan Province. Among the six types of odonate habitats, forest streams have the highest species diversity whereas ponds have the most species shared with other habitats. Both of these two habitats are important in biodiversity conservation and need urgent protection.
Small-Dense LDL Cholesterol/Large-Buoyant LDL Cholesterol Ratio as an Excellent Marker for Indicating Lipodystrophy in HIV-Infected Patients
Authors: Srisawasdi Pornpen , Suwalak Tanida , Sukasem Chonlaphat , Chittamma Anchalee , Pocathikorn Anothai , Vanavanan Somlak , Puangpetch Apichaya , Santon Siwalee , Chantratita Wasun , Kiertiburanakul Sasisopin , Kroll Martin H.
Published: September 2013

Objectives:

To examine whether the lipid parameters are predicting factors for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–associated lipodystrophy.

Methods:

Whole-body fat compositions of HIV-positive patients receiving stavudine-containing antiretroviral regimens (n = 79) were determined. Lipodystrophy was defined as a ratio of trunk fat mass/lower limb fat mass greater than 2.28. Blood samples were analyzed for total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), small-dense LDL-C (sdLDL-C), apoAI, apoB, lipoprotein(a), and CD4 cell counts. Large-buoyant LDL-C (lbLDL-C) was calculated (LDL-C minus sdLDL-C).

Results:

Twenty-six patients were classified as having lipodystrophy. The mean values of triglycerides, HDL-C, sdLDL-C, apoB, TC/HDL-C, apolipoprotein (apo) B/apoAI, and sdLDL-C/lbLDL-C showed significant differences between patients with and without lipodystrophy (P < .02). Using logistic regression analysis, sdLDL-C/lbLDL-C was identified as a significant predictor of lipodystrophy (P < .001). At a ratio of 0.554, the odds ratio was 17.8 with a likelihood ratio of 5.5.

Conclusions:

The sdLDL-C/lbLDL-C ratio is an excellent marker for indicating lipodystrophy in HIV-infected patients.
Progress of Research on Welding for Molybdenum Alloys
Authors: Wang Jiteng , Wang Juan , Li Yajiang , Zheng Deshuang
Published: September 2013

Molybdenum and molybdenum alloys are considered to be attractive structural materials for high-temperature applications. However, molybdenum alloys are sensitive to gas impurities and have the characteristics of low temperature embrittlement and less resistance to oxidation at elevated temperature. The toughness and strength of welded joint is not easy to be ensured by traditional technology. Recently, many efforts have been made to join molybdenum and its alloys. In this paper, we present the result of investigations on welding methods of molybdenum and its alloys and overview the practical applications in engineering. The key of joining molybdenum alloys is to improve the toughness of welded joint and prevent the generation of pores and cracks.
Antioxidant supplementation overcomes the deleterious effects of maternal restraint stress-induced oxidative stress on mouse oocytes
Authors: Lian Hua-Yu , Gao Yan , Jiao Guang-Zhong , Sun Ming-Ju , Wu Xiu-Fen , Wang Tian-Yang , Li Hong , Tan Jing-He
Published: September 2013

In this study, using a mouse model, we tested the hypothesis that restraint stress would impair the developmental potential of oocytes by causing oxidative stress and that antioxidant supplementation could overcome the adverse effect of stress-induced oxidative stress. Female mice were subjected to restraint stress for 24 h starting 24 h after equine chorionic gonadotropin injection. At the end of stress exposure, mice were either killed to recover oocytes forin vitromaturation (IVM) or injected with human chorionic gonadotropin and caged with male mice to observein vivodevelopment. The effect of antioxidants was testedin vitroby adding them to IVM medium orin vivoby maternal injection immediately before restraint stress exposure. Assays carried out to determine total oxidant and antioxidant status, oxidative stress index, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and glutathione levels indicated that restraint stress increased oxidative stress in mouse serum, ovaries, and oocytes. Whereas the percentage of blastocysts and number of cells per blastocyst decreased significantly in oocytes from restraint-stressed mice, addition of antioxidants to IVM medium significantly improved their blastocyst development. Supplementation of cystine and cysteamine to IVM medium reduced ROS levels and aneuploidy while increasing glutathione synthesis and improving pre- and postimplantation development of oocytes from restraint-stressed mice. Furthermore, injection of the antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate into restraint-stressed mice significantly improved the blastocyst formation and postimplantation development of their oocytes. In conclusion, restraint stress at the oocyte prematuration stage impaired the developmental potential of oocytes by increasing oxidative stress and addition of antioxidants to IVM medium or maternal antioxidant injection overcame the detrimental effect of stress-induced oxidative stress. The data reported herein are helpful when making attempts to increase the chances of a successful outcome in human IVF, because restraint was applied at a stage similar to the FSH stimulation period in a human IVF program.
Randomized Trial of a Population-Based, Home-Delivered Intervention for Preschool Language Delay
Authors: Wake Melissa , Tobin Sherryn , Levickis Penny , Gold Lisa , Ukoumunne Obioha C. , Zens Naomi , Goldfeld Sharon , Le Ha , Law James , Reilly Sheena
Published: September 2013

OBJECTIVE:

Population approaches to lessen the adverse impacts of preschool language delay remain elusive. We aimed to determine whether systematic ascertainment of language delay at age 4 years, followed by a 10-month, 1-on-1 intervention, improves language and related outcomes at age 5 years.

METHODS:

A randomized trial nested within a cross-sectional ascertainment of language delay. Children with expressive and/or receptive language scores more than 1.25 SD below the mean at age 4 years entered the trial. Children randomly allocated to the intervention received 18 1-hour home-based therapy sessions. The primary outcomes were receptive and expressive language (Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals – Preschool, 2nd Edition) and secondary outcomes were child phonological skills, letter awareness, pragmatic skills, behavior, and quality of life.

RESULTS:

A total of 1464 children were assessed for language delay at age 4 years. Of 266 eligible children, 200 (13.6%) entered the trial, with 91 intervention (92% of 99) and 88 control (87% of 101) children retained at age 5 years. At age 5 years, there was weak evidence of benefit to expressive (adjusted mean difference, intervention − control, 2.0; 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.5 to 4.4; P = .12) but not receptive (0.6; 95% CI −2.5 to 3.8; P = .69) language. The intervention improved phonological awareness skills (5.0; 95% CI 2.2 to 7.8; P < .001) and letter knowledge (2.4; 95% CI 0.3 to 4.5; P = .03), but not other secondary outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS:

A standardized yet flexible 18-session language intervention was successfully delivered by non-specialist staff, found to be acceptable and feasible, and has the potential to improve long-term consequences of early language delay within a public health framework.
Improving Delivery Room Management for Very Preterm Infants
Authors: DeMauro Sara B. , Douglas Emily , Karp Kelley , Schmidt Barbara , Patel Jay , Kronberger Amy , Scarboro Russell , Posencheg Michael
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Events in the delivery room significantly impact the outcomes of preterm infants. We developed evidence-based guidelines to prevent heat loss, reduce exposure to supplemental oxygen, and increase use of noninvasive respiratory support to improve the care and outcomes of infants with birth weight ≤1250 g at our institution.

METHODS:

The guidelines were implemented through multidisciplinary conferences, routine use of a checklist, appointment of a dedicated resuscitation nurse, and frequent feedback to clinicians. This cohort study compares a historical group (n = 80) to a prospective group (n = 80, after guidelines were implemented). Primary outcome was axillary temperature at admission to the intensive care nursery. Secondary outcomes measured adherence to the guidelines and changes in clinically relevant patient outcomes.

RESULTS:

Baseline characteristics of the groups were similar. After introduction of the guidelines, average admission temperatures increased (36.4°C vs 36.7°C, P < .001) and the proportion of infants admitted with moderate/severe hypothermia fell (14% vs 1%, P = .003). Infants were exposed to less oxygen during the first 10 minutes (P < .001), with similar oxygen saturations. Although more patients were tried on continuous positive airway pressure (40% vs 61%, P = .007), the intubation rate was not significantly different (64% vs 54%, P = .20). Median durations of invasive ventilation and hospitalization decreased after the quality initiative (5 vs 1 days [P = .008] and 80 vs 60 days [P = .02], respectively).

CONCLUSIONS:

We have demonstrated significantly improved quality of delivery room care for very preterm infants after introduction of evidence-based delivery room guidelines. Multidisciplinary involvement and continuous education and reinforcement of the guidelines permitted sustained change.
Change in Care Among Nonenrolled Patients During and After a Randomized Trial
Authors: LeVan Jaclyn M. , Wyckoff Myra H. , Ahn Chul , Heyne Roy , Sánchez Pablo J. , Chalak Lina , Jaleel Mambarambath A. , Burchfield P. Jeannette , Christie Lucy , Soll Roger , Badger Gary J. , Brion Luc P.
Published: September 2013

OBJECTIVE:

Parkland Memorial Hospital (PMH) participated in Surfactant, Positive Pressure, and Oxygenation Randomized Trial (SUPPORT), an unblinded controlled trial, in which preterm neonates of 240/7 to 276/7 weeks’ gestational age (GA) were randomized in the delivery room (DR) to endotracheal intubation or nasal continuous positive airway pressure. We hypothesized that DR intubation could change in nonenrolled patients at PMH and that the change would be larger than in comparable centers not participating in the trial.

METHODS:

The PMH Cohort included eligible but nonenrolled neonates of 240/7 to 276/7 weeks (primary) and noneligible neonates of 28 to 346/7 weeks (confirmatory). A subset (240/7–296/7weeks) of that cohort was compared with a contemporaneous cohort born in centers participating in the Vermont Oxford Network (VON). We used a Poisson regression model to obtain adjusted relative risks (RRs) of DR intubation (during/after SUPPORT versus before SUPPORT) for PMH and for VON along with the ratio of these RRs.

RESULTS:

In the PMH cohort (n = 3527), the proportion of DR intubation decreased during/after SUPPORT in the lower GA group (adjusted RR 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59–0.96) and the upper GA group (adjusted RR 0.57, 95% CI 0.46–0.70). Compared with the RR for DR intubation in VON, the RR at PMH was smaller in the lower (ratio of RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.65–0.87) and the upper GA group (ratio of RR 0.52, 95% CI 0.39–0.68).

CONCLUSIONS:

A center’s participation in an unblinded randomized trial may affect process of care of nonenrolled patients.
Suggestive techniques connected to medical interventions
Authors: Varga Katalin
Published: September 2013

The paper introduces a series of articles where several detailed clinical examples will be presented on the effectiveness of using suggestive techniques in various fields of interventional medicine. The aim of this series is to raise the attention to the patients heightened openness to suggestions. By recognizing the unavoidable nature of suggestive effects on one hand we can eliminate unfavourable, negative suggestions and on the other hand go on and consciously apply positive, helpful variations. Research materials, reviews and case study will describe the way suggestions can reduce anxiety and stress connected to medical intervention, improve subjective well-being and cooperation, and increase efficiency by reducing treatment costs.
Re-stability of dental implants following treatment of peri-implantitis
Authors: Javed Fawad , Hussain Hamza , Romanos Georgios
Published: September 2013

It is hypothesized that active treatment of peri-implantitis (PI) leads to re-stabilization of dental implants. The aim was to assess whether or not dental implants can re-stabilize following treatment of PI. To address the focused question, MEDLINE/PubMed and Google-Scholar databases were explored from 1977 up to and including August 2013. Any disagreements between the authors were resolved via discussion. Articles published only in English were included. Hand searching was also performed. Thirteen experimental studies were included. The treatment regimes adopted in these studies comprised of antibiotic therapy, guided bone regeneration (GBR), laser therapy, use of bone matrix proteins with membrane, conventional flap surgery and mechanical debridement. In four studies, GBR promoted new bone formation; whereas two studies showed photosensitization therapy (in combination with either mechanical debridement or GBR) to regenerate bone around peri-implant defects. Six studies reported that mechanical debridement in conjunction with antibiotic therapy promoted re-stability of dental implants. In one study, recombinant human bone matrix protein-2 with a collagen membrane helped promote re-stabilization of dental implants. New bone formation may occur to some extent around dental implants following treatment for PI; however, a “complete” re-stability may be difficult to achieve without GBR.
Professional and community satisfaction with the Brazilian family health strategy
Authors: Perez Lilian G , Sheridan Juliet D , Nicholls Andrea Y , Mues Katherine E , Saleme Priscila S , Resende Joana C , Ferreira Jose A G , Leon Juan S
Published: September 2013

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the strengths and limitations of the Family Health Strategy from the perspective of health care professionals and the community. METHODS: Between June-August 2009, in the city of Vespasiano, Minas Gerais State, Southeastern Brazil, a questionnaire was used to evaluate the Family Health Strategy (ESF) with 77 healthcare professionals and 293 caregivers of children under five. Health care professional training, community access to health care, communication with patients and delivery of health education and pediatric care were the main points of interest in the evaluation. Logistic regression analysis was used to obtain odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals as well as to assess the statistical significance of the variables studied. RESULTS: The majority of health care professionals reported their program training was insufficient in quantity, content and method of delivery. Caregivers and professionals identified similar weaknesses (services not accessible to the community, lack of healthcare professionals, poor training for professionals) and strengths (community health worker-patient communications, provision of educational information, and pediatric care). Recommendations for improvement included: more doctors and specialists, more and better training, and scheduling improvements. Caregiver satisfaction with the ESF was found to be related to perceived benefits such as community health agent household visits (OR 5.8, 95%CI 2.8;12.1), good professional-patient relationships (OR 4.8, 95%CI 2.5;9.3), and family-focused health (OR 4.1, 95%CI 1.6;10.2); and perceived problems such as lack of personnel (OR 0.3, 95%CI 0.2;0.6), difficulty with access (OR 0.2, 95%CI 0.1;0.4), and poor quality of care (OR 0.3, 95%CI 0.1;0.6). Overall, 62% of caregivers reported being generally satisfied with the ESF services. CONCLUSIONS: Identifying the limitations and strengths of the Family Health Strategy from the healthcare professional and caregiver perspective may serve to advance primary community healthcare in Brazil.