bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phaseolamin treatment prevents oxidative stress and collagen deposition in the hearts of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Oliveira Renato JS , de Oliveira Vanessa N , Deconte Simone R , Calábria Luciana K , da Silva Moraes Alberto , Espindola Foued S
Published: February 2014

The development of cardiovascular complications in patients with diabetes is often associated with an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidant systems. This imbalance can contribute to high cardiac collagen content, which increases cross-linking and the stiffness of the myocardium. In this study, the protective effect of phaseolamin against damage under oxidative stress and collagen deposition in the cardiac tissue in association with diabetes was evaluated. Non-diabetic and diabetic animals were distributed into groups and treated for 20 days with commercial phaseolamin. The phaseolamin treatment increased total antioxidant activity but reduced the following in diabetic rats: (a) hyperglycaemic state, (b) catalase and superoxide dismutase activity and (c) tissue damage caused by lipid peroxidation. Additionally, the phaseolamin treatment attenuated the collagen levels compared to non-treated diabetic rats. Thus, the short-term anti-hyperglycaemic effect of the phaseolamin treatment may prevent the initial changes caused by oxidative stress and the deposition of collagen, as well as reduce the incidence of heart complications.
Diagnosis and Prognosis in Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Ghosh Sayantani , Lippa Carol
Published: February 2014

Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is a communicating hydrocephalus, of unknown pathophysiology, characterized by the classical triad of dementia, urinary incontinence, and ataxia. The most popular treatment option is shunt surgery, although it is not a cure. The diagnosis of the disorder is challenging as it may mimic a lot of other neurological conditions and has no distinct biomarker. It becomes even more challenging as majority of the cases are diagnosed by invasive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) removal tests. However, a careful history taking, a keen and detailed physical examination, and pertinent imaging studies can lead to an early diagnosis. The gait symptoms respond the most to surgery. The predictors deciding the postsurgical prognosis has been discussed. Improved shunting modalities and novel shunt materials with valve adjustments have improved the precision of the shunting procedures. Still we have lot more to achieve in terms of early diagnosis and definitive management of iNPH.
Expressional difference, distributions of TGF-β1 in TGF-β1 knock down transgenic mouse, and its possible roles in injured spinal cord
Authors: XiYang Yan-Bin , Lu Bing-Tuan , Ya-Zhao  , Yuan-Zhang  , Xia Qin-Jie , Zou Yu , Zhang Wei , Quan Xiong-Zhi , Liu Su , McDonald John W , Zhang Lian-Feng , Wang Ting-Hua
Published: February 2014

Transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) is a multi-functional cytokine implicated in many aspects of mammalian wound healing and scar tissue formation. However, few experiments have so far addressed the potential biological effects of TGF-β1 in the nervous system after injury, in addition to the immune system. In the present study, expressional silencing TGF-β1 was achieved by selecting predesigning hairpins targeting mouse TGF-β1 genes. Four homozygous transgenic offspring were generated and designed as Founder 90, Founder 12, Founder 41 and Founder 46. The down-regulated rates of TGF-β1 in different transgenic mice were also determined. To investigate the potential roles of TGF-β1, we observed changes in the neurological behavior of TGF-β1-knockdown (TGF-β1-kd) mice after spinal cord transection (SCT). Moreover, mRNA levels of inflammatory cytokines, including IL-1, IL-6, IL-10, NF-κB and TNF, were also detected in nucleate cells from blood by real-time PCR. Consequently, different TGF-β1 expressions were detected in multiple tissues, and protein levels of TGF-β1 decreased at different rates relative to that of wild type (WT) ones. The levels of TGF-β1 proteins in TGF-β1-kd mice decreased at most by 57% in Founder 90, which showed a significant recovery in Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan (BBB) scores after SCT compared with that of WT. However, expressions of immune relative genes showed no dramatic difference compared with WT ones. This study is the first to generate TGF-β1 down regulated mice and determine the possible roles of TGF-β1 in vivo in different conditions.
Globalization and the rise of precarious employment: the new frontier for workplace health promotion
Authors: Caldbick Sam , Labonte Ronald , Mohindra K. S. , Ruckert Arne
Published: February 2014

Global market integration over the past three decades has led to labour market restructuring in most countries around the world. Employment flexibility has been emphasized as a way for employers to restructure their organizations to remain globally competitive. This flexibility has resulted in the growth of precarious employment, which has been exacerbated by the global financial crisis and resulting recession in 2007/2008, and the ongoing economic uncertainty throughout much of the world. Precarious employment may result in short and long-term health consequences for many workers. This presents a deeper and more structural determinant of health than what health promoters have traditionally considered. It calls for a different understanding of workplace health promotion research and intervention that goes beyond enabling healthier lifestyle choices or advocating safer workplace conditions to ensuring adequate social protection floors that provide people with sufficient resources to lead healthy lives, and for advocacy for taxation justice to finance such protection.
Chamber dimensions and functional assessment with coronary computed tomographic angiography as compared to echocardiography using American Society of Echocardiography guidelines
Authors: Rose Michael , Rubal Bernard , Hulten Edward , Slim Jennifer N , Steel Kevin , Furgerson James L , Villines Todd C , Slim Ahmad M
Published: February 2014

Background:

The correlation between normal cardiac chamber linear dimensions measured during retrospective coronary computed tomographic angiography as compared to transthoracic echocardiography using the American Society of Echocardiography guidelines is not well established.

Methods:

We performed a review from January 2005 to July 2011 to identify subjects with retrospective electrocardiogram-gated coronary computed tomographic angiography scans for chest pain and transthoracic echocardiography with normal cardiac structures performed within 90 days. Dimensions were manually calculated in both imaging modalities in accordance with the American Society of Echocardiography published guidelines. Left ventricular ejection fraction was calculated on echocardiography manually using the Simpson’s formula and by coronary computed tomographic angiography using the end-systolic and end-diastolic volumes.

Results:

We reviewed 532 studies, rejected 412 and had 120 cases for review with a median time between studies of 7 days (interquartile range (IQR25,75) = 0–22 days) with no correlation between the measurements made by coronary computed tomographic angiography and transthoracic echocardiography using Bland–Altman analysis. We generated coronary computed tomographic angiography cardiac dimension reference ranges for both genders for our population.

Conclusion:

Our findings represent a step towards generating cardiac chamber dimensions’ reference ranges for coronary computed tomographic angiography as compared to transthoracic echocardiography in patients with normal cardiac morphology and function using the American Society of Echocardiography guideline measurements that are commonly used by cardiologists.
Measuring Rural Development
Authors: Buragohain Tarujyoti , Landge R.S.
Published: February 2014

This article is an attempt to assess the impact of the solar home lighting systems in the socio-economic development of rural areas and to measure the extent of welfare and level of satisfaction among the beneficiaries of solar home lighting systems in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Focus group discussions techniques were used to gather the information from the selected villages.

The solar home lighting systems have improved the standard of living of the beneficiaries. They now watch TV and listen to the radio for entertainment and news. School-going children can study in the evenings for longer time and score more marks in the examinations. Girls among the Adivasis are encouraged to go to school. Drop-out rate has been reduced. Women find it more comfortable to do household chores. Working hours have been increased in the evening. Income generation activities are also being initiated, but at a slower pace. Expenditure on kerosene has been reduced significantly. Solar home lighting systems thus bring socio-economic changes in remote villages for the better.
Women, Sericulture and Empowerment
Authors: Geetha G.S.
Published: February 2014

This article examines the impact of livelihood oriented sericultural service provision for small and medium holding farmers on gender relationships and socio-economic empowerment. Women have gained many entitlements including asset possession, work participation, decision-making, access to resources such as credit, land and market and participation in local civic bodies. While the growth in the production of silk has contributed towards more sustainable livelihoods, it has not translated into enhanced empowerment. Though the conditions of life and work available to women in sericulture are better as compared to women in many other work groups, it is seen they are not able to completely break away gender barriers and lead a completely empowered life due to prevailing socio-economic barriers including traditions, customs and patriarchy.
Pulmonary surfactant in newborn infants and children
Authors: Chakraborty Mallinath , Kotecha Sailesh
Published: February 2014

Educational aims

To understand the composition, secretory pathways and functions of pulmonary surfactant.

To review the clinical evidence regarding the use of surfactants in newborn infants and children.

To develop an understanding of rarer disorders of surfactant metabolism.

To understand recent developments and future prospects in the field of surfactants.

Pulmonary surfactant is a complex mixture of specific lipids, proteins and carbohydrates, which is produced in the lungs by type II alveolar epithelial cells. The mixture is surface active and acts to decrease surface tension at the air–liquid interface of the alveoli. The presence of such molecules with surface activity had been suspected since the early 1900s and was finally confirmed in the mid-1900s. Since then, the chemical, physical and biological properties of the surfactant mixture have been revealed due to the work of several groups of investigators.

The surfactant mixture is an essential group of molecules to support air breathing. Thus, preterm infants, who are born with immature lungs and are surfactant deficient, develop respiratory distress syndrome after being born. Replacement of natural surfactant therapy with purified surfactant from lungs of nonhuman species is one of the most significant advances in neonatology and has resulted in improved limits of viability of preterm infants. Although preterm infants are the primary population, exogenous surfactant treatment may also have a role to play in other respiratory diseases of term-born infants and older children.
Experimental investigation and numerical modelling of photocurrent oscillations in lattice matched Ga1−xIn
x
N
y
As1−y/GaAs quantum well p-i-n photodiodes
Authors: Royall Ben , Khalil Hagir , Mazzucato Simone , Erol Ayse , Balkan Naci
Published: February 2014

Photocurrent oscillations, observed at low temperatures in lattice-matched Ga1−x
In
x
N
y
As1−y
/GaAs multiple quantum well (MQW) p-i-n samples, are investigated as a function of applied bias and excitation wavelength and are modelled with the aid of semiconductor simulation software. The oscillations appear only at low temperatures and have the highest amplitude when the optical excitation energy is in resonance with the GaInNAs bandgap. They are explained in terms of electron accumulation and the formation of high-field domains in the GaInNAs QWs as a result of the disparity between the photoexcited electron and hole escape rates from the QWs. The application of the external bias results in the motion of the high-field domain towards the anode where the excess charge dissipates from the well adjacent to anode via tunnelling.
A targeted gene expression system using the tryptophan repressor in zebrafish shows no silencing in subsequent generations
Authors: Suli Arminda , Guler Ali D. , Raible David W. , Kimelman David
Published: February 2014

The ability to visualize and manipulate cell fate and gene expression in specific cell populations has made gene expression systems valuable tools in developmental biology studies. Here, we describe a new system that uses the E. coli tryptophan repressor and its upstream activation sequence (TrpR/tUAS) to drive gene expression in stable zebrafish transgenic lines and in mammalian cells. We show that TrpR/tUAS transgenes are not silenced in subsequent generations of zebrafish, which is a major improvement over some of the existing systems, such as Gal4/gUAS and the Q-system. TrpR transcriptional activity can be tuned by mutations in its DNA-binding domain, or silenced by Gal80 when fused to the Gal4 activation domain. In cases in which more than one cell population needs to be manipulated, TrpR/tUAS can be used in combination with other, existing systems.
Developmental stratification of the mammary epithelium occurs through symmetry-breaking vertical divisions of apically positioned luminal cells
Authors: Huebner Robert J. , Lechler Terry , Ewald Andrew J.
Published: February 2014

Mammary ducts are elongated during development by stratified epithelial structures, known as terminal end buds (TEBs). TEBs exhibit reduced apicobasal polarity and extensive proliferation. A major unanswered question concerns the mechanism by which the simple ductal epithelium stratifies during TEB formation. We sought to elucidate this mechanism using real-time imaging of growth factor-induced stratification in 3D cultures of mouse primary epithelial organoids. We hypothesized that stratification could result from vertical divisions in either the apically positioned luminal epithelial cells or the basally positioned myoepithelial cells. Stratification initiated exclusively from vertical apical cell divisions, both in 3D culture and in vivo. During vertical apical divisions, only the mother cell retained tight junctions and segregated apical membranes. Vertical daughter cells initiated an unpolarized cell population located between the luminal and myoepithelial cells, similar to the unpolarized body cells in the TEB. As stratification and loss of apicobasal polarity are early hallmarks of cancer, we next determined the cellular mechanism of oncogenic stratification. Expression of activated ERBB2 induced neoplastic stratification through analogous vertical divisions of apically positioned luminal epithelial cells. However, ERBB2-induced stratification was accompanied by tissue overgrowth and acute loss of both tight junctions and apical polarity. Expression of phosphomimetic MEK (MEK1DD), a major ERBB2 effector, also induced stratification through vertical apical cell divisions. However, MEK1DD-expressing organoids exhibited normal levels of growth and retained apicobasal polarity. We conclude that both normal and neoplastic stratification are accomplished through receptor tyrosine kinase signaling dependent vertical cell divisions within the luminal epithelial cell layer.
Human Resources in the Context of Epidemic Social Processes
Authors: Василенко  , Vasilenko L. , Губернова  , Gubernova M.
Published: February 2014

Issues of social epidemics and social diseases emergence in the context of new communications and contemporary global social-informational medium development

are discussed. serves as a basics for the analysis of new communications impact on human condition and social sphere is analyzed based on the

social self-organization, or social synergetics, theory as a methodological foundation. The global informational environment has accumulated enormous

collective intellect.

Ever-growing intellectual resources create principally new non-equilibrium environment for social communications. Non-equilibrium itself brings about and

prompts risks of mass natural phenomena and epidemic processes in the social medium. Self-organization is a spontaneous process going on without any

outer managerial efforts. Self-organization facilitates spontaneous growth of individuals’ mobility and creates potential for counteraction to public administration.

Mass diffusion of ideological or religious cults, movements, ideas, technological innovations, fashions, games of luck, alcohol and drug abuse — all

these have epidemic character. Specifics of social epidemic processes are highlighted: multivariability of destructive impact on the social and economic fabric

of society, relationship of social epidemics to economic crises, etc. Destructive epidemic processes can be stopped with social therapy methods and “vaccination”

against information viruses, including techniques fo nurturing moral and intellectual foundation of personality. M. Gladwell’s approach to counter social epidemics

is shown as promising (stickiness factor, the law of the few, force of circumstances).
Technology for Normalization of Manned Premises’ Air Environment Ion Composition
Authors: Попов  , Popov I. , Рудаков  , Rudakov S. , Толкунов  , Tolkunov Igor
Published: February 2014

Technology for normalization of manned premises’ air environment ion composition with controlled generator of air ions, embedded in an air conditioning system, has been laid out. Such generator structure has been described, and main modes of its functioning have been studied.
Ten-year anniversary of the congresses of ELPIT: experience, results, prospects
Authors: Васильев  , Vasilyev Andrey
Published: February 2014

Experience and results related to carrying out of international ecological ELPIT congresses "Ecology and health and safety of

industrial and transport complexes" which have become one of the largest scientific actions in scale in the Russia’s territory have

been described. The ELPIT congresses’ further development prospects have been considered.
Pediatric infl ammatory bowel disease: experience in a tertiary pediatric center
Authors: Pavić Ana Močić , Hojsak Iva , Mišak Zrinjka , Kolaček Sanja
Published: February 2014

The aim of the study was to assess the clinical features and diagnostic work-up in patients newly diagnosed with infl ammatory bowel disease in our center. We prospectively collected data on all children (N=158) diagnosed with infl ammatory bowel disease at our center from January 2004 to September 2012. During the 8.7-year period, 78 (49.4%) children were diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, 73 (46.2%) with ulcerative colitis and 7 (4.4%) with indeterminate colitis. Retrospective analysis yielded the following for Crohn’s disease: (a) the PCDAI at diagnosis was 29.4 (range 15-60); (b) the most common presenting symptoms were abdominal pain, diarrhea and weight loss; (c) 28 (35.9%) patients had stunted growth already at presentation; and (d) the predominant location was ileocolonic (n=48; 61.5%), perianal disease was found in 37 (47.4%) and upper gastrointestinal tract was aff ected in 26 (33.3%) patients; and for ulcerative colitis: (a) a signifi cant rise in the incidence was observed in the last two years; (b) the PUCAI at diagnosis was 26.2 (range 10- >65); (c) the most common presenting symptoms were diarrhea and blood in stool; and (d) most patients had extensive disease with either pancolitis (n=40; 54.7%) or extensive colitis (n=10; 13.4%). The role of small bowel follow through was dubious in our hands as it confi rmed endoscopically proven terminal ileum involvement in only 31.3% of Crohn’s disease patients. In conclusion, no diff erence was found in the incidence rate of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis; moreover, towards the end of the study, more children were diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. Our patients presented with extensive form of the disease. In diagnostic work-up, magnetic resonance imaging enterography should be done whenever possible.
Neodrediv rezultat testa oslobađanja interferona gama u dječjoj dobi - pregled literature s prikazom bolesnika
Authors: Pavić Ivan , Drinković Dorian Tješić , Bogović Jasna Čepin , Dodig Slavica
Published: February 2014

Testovi oslobađanja interferona gama (IGRA-testovi) značajan su napredak u dijagnostici infekcije s bakterijom M. tuberculosis.Osim dobivanja negativnog i pozitivnog rezultata IGRA-testa, postoji mogućnost dobivanja neodredivog rezultata, odnosno situacije kad nije moguće odrediti stanje infekcije s M. tuberculosisom. Interpretacija i odgovarajuće praćenje djece s neodredivim rezultatima IGRA-testa dijagnostički su izazov za kliničara. Cilj ovog preglednog članka je kroz prikaz slučaja 15-mjesečnog djeteta s prolaznim neodredivim nalazom QuantiFERON–TB Gold In-Tube testa (QFT-GIT, Cellestis Ltd, Carnegie, Australija) u tijeku akutne upalepluća uputiti na probleme vezane za dobivanje neodredivog rezultata. Nakon izlječenja nalaz QFT-GIT-testa bio je negativan. Da bise smanjio udio neodredivih rezultata i time nepotrebni troškovi QFT-GIT-test je preporučljivo izvoditi nakon sanacije akutne upaleuz obveznu standardizaciju predanalitičkih i analitičkih postupaka. S obzirom na sve širu upotrebu IGRA-testova nameće se sve većapotreba za smjernicama koje su temeljene na dokazima o optimalnom praćenju djece s neodredivim rezultatima IGRA-testa.
Supporting Inclusion and Flourishing in the Religious and Spiritual Lives of People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Carter Erik W.
Published: February 2014

An important aspect of supporting many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to flourish involves providing meaningful opportunities to participate in the spiritual and religious life of their community. Yet, a review of prevailing practices suggests the spirituality and faith community connections of individuals with intellectual disability, autism, and other developmental disabilities may be inconsistently supported or entirely overlooked. This article suggests an initial framework for research, policy, and practice aimed at fostering inclusion at the intersection of disability, religion, and spirituality. Recommendations are offered for designing services and supports that ensure that (a) people with disabilities can participate fully in inclusive spiritual and religious activities, (b) congregations develop the commitment and capacity to welcome people with disabilities and their families, (c) families receive support in ways that honor their faith commitments and connections, and (d) service systems support people with disabilities and their families in comprehensive and culturally competent ways.
Miscellaneous
Authors: Lasikova Galina , Vazquez Jose R. , Özkaya Belgin Turan , Ergut Elvan Altan , Sears Tamara I.
Published: February 2014

‘Classical Art of the Islamic World from the IX to the XIX Centuries: Ninety-Nine Names of God’, Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts, Department of Private Collections, Moscow, RUSSIA, February 20–June 16, 2013

‘Opa-Locka: Mirage City’, History Miami, MIAMI, FLORIDA, June 28–September 8, 2013

‘Narratives of Travel Writing and Architectural History’, Third Nomad Seminar in Historiography, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey, November 8–9, 2012

‘Asia and the Middle East’, the Society of Architectural Historians Annual Conference, Buffalo, NY, April 10–14, 2013
The ‘Inventive Jump’: Curiosity, Culture and Islamicate Form in the Works of Peter and Alison Smithson
Authors: Christensen Peter
Published: February 2014

Using materials from the Harvard University Graduate School of Design’s Special Collections, this article explores scantly documented master plans and architectural designs for cities and projects in or relating to the Islamic world, located in Kuwait, Tehran, Alexandria, Khartoum and London and designed by British architects Peter and Alison Smithson from the 1950s through to the 1980s. These projects illustrate the architects’ generative approach towards Islamicate building contexts and the ways in which it at once is in sync and divergent from orientalist, colonial and developmental legacies. Examining aspects of an array of projects – from a chair to a master plan – this article illuminates the pitfalls and promise of the qualities of ‘sympathy’ and ‘empathy’ in the Smithsons’ architectural projects for the Islamic world in the latter half of the twentieth century.
Sticky situation: best practice to secure endotracheal tubes in the operating room
Authors: Davies Adam , Murphy Meagan , Monaghan W. Patrick Monaghan , Cushenbery Cameron
Published: February 2014

Background: Tape is the standard means of securing endotracheal tubes in the surgical environment to prevent accidental extubation. This study utilizes a mannequin model to examine the amount of force required to dislodge endotracheal tubes secured with four different varieties of commercially available tape and three different taping methods. This study also incorporates different angles of applied force and varying mannequin positions to simulate conditions often encountered in the operating room. Methods: An airway trainer mannequin was intubated using a standard cuffed endotracheal tube and secured with one of four varieties of tape and one of three taping methods in randomly assigned order. The mannequin was placed in either the supine, lateral, or prone position. The endotracheal tube was then attached to a digital force meter and constant manual force applied in one of three planes (laterally to right, vertically, or laterally to left) until the cuff was removed from the trachea. Force measurements were recorded and analyzed. Results: Securing the endotracheal tube to both the maxillary and mandibular borders with Durapore™ silk tape held the endotracheal tube in the strongest, requiring the greatest force to dislodge it from the airway. Angle of force also showed statistical significance. Conclusions: The amount of force required to dislodge endotracheal tubes is affected by tape type, taping method, and direction of force. Durapore™ silk tape applied to both maxillary and mandibular borders was superior at holding the endotracheal tube in place when compared to other tape varieties and taping methods.   Keywords: Airway control, airway extubation, airway management, intubation, endotracheal intubation.
Antecedents and Outcomes of Exporter–Importer Relationship Quality: Synthesis, Meta-Analysis, and Directions for Further Research
Authors: Leonidou Leonidas C. , Samiee Saeed , Aykol Bilge , Talias Michael A.
Published: February 2014

The authors identify, synthesize, and evaluate antecedents, components, and outcome factors of exporter–importer relationship quality following a meta-analysis of the extant empirical studies on the subject. Using information extracted from a content analysis of 76 empirical studies, they propose and test an integrative conceptual model comprising five antecedents (i.e., opportunism, conflict, communication, distance, and adaptation) and two outcomes (i.e., relational performance and financial performance) of relationship quality (which consists of cooperation, trust, and commitment). Using structural equation modeling, the authors confirm the vast majority of the hypothesized associations between antecedent factors and relationship quality dimensions and between relationship quality dimensions and performance outcomes and verify a positive link between relational performance and financial performance. The authors conclude by offering both theoretical and managerial implications as well as directions for further research.
Effect of Pulsed Electric Field on Microstructure of Some Amino Acid Group of Soy Protein Isolates
Authors: Liu Yan-Yan , Zhang Ying , Zeng Xin-An , El-Mashad H. , Pan Zhong-Li , Wang Qi-Jun
Published: February 2014

The effect of a pulsed electric field (PEF) on the microstructure of some amino acids was studied. Raman spectrum was used to determine the effect of PEF on tyrosine, tryptophan, proline residues, histidine, arginine, aliphatic amino acid, disulfide bond, and polypeptide backbone in soy protein isolates (SPI). Results suggested that increasing the intensity of PEF gradually to 50 kV cm−1 led to a reduction in gauche C–S conformation of CCSSCC dihedral angles. The increase of the PEF intensity caused an increase in the gauche–gauche–gauche conformation of the disulfide bond accompanying a decrease in α-helix and β-sheet and an increase in antiparallel β-sheet and disorder structure. A critical pulse intensity of 30 kV cm−1 was observed for unfolding and reassembling of SPI, which was verified in our previous study (Liu et al., Eur Food Res Technol 233:841–50). When the pulse intensity gradually increased to around 30 kV cm−1, the exposure of tyrosine and tryptophan, the vibration of CH2 wagging in proline and CH2 in the midazole ring of histidine, the vibration of C—H bending and C—N stretching inside a charged arginine, and asymmetric H—C—H bending deformation vibration in CH2 and CH3 groups in aromatic and aliphatic amino acids gradually increased, suggesting an unfolding of protein molecules. When the pulse intensity continually increased from 30 to 50 kV cm−1, the microstructure of all above amino acids decreased due to the reassembly of unfolding proteins.
Photo-neutron cross-section of 96Zr using bremsstrahlung radiation with end point energies of 10 and 12.5 MeV
Authors: Crasta Rita , Naik H. , Suryanarayana S. V. , Sanjeev Ganesh , Prajapati P. M. , Kumar M. , Nathaniel T. N. , Nimje V. T. , Mittal K. C. , Goswami A.
Published: February 2014

The 96Zr(γ, n)95Zr reaction cross-section was experimentally determined at end point bremsstrahlung
energies of 10 and 12.5 MeV using off-line γ-ray spectrometric technique. The cross-section increases sharply from
the end point energy of 10 to 12.5 MeV, which indicates the role of excitation energy. The reaction cross-section as
a function of photon energy was also calculated theoretically using the TALYS 1.2 computer code. The flux weighted average value of the
96Zr(γ, n)95Zr reaction cross-section for the end-point bremsstrahlung energies of 10 and
12.5 MeV was also calculated using the experimental and theoretical data of mono-energetic photons to compare with the
present data. The cross-section given in the present work at end- point bremsstrahlung energy of 10 MeV is closer to the
flux-weighted value of TALYS but higher than the literature data. On the other hand, at 12.5 MeV, it is higher than the
flux weighted value of TALYS and the literature data.
Particulate air pollution and cardiovascular disease – it is time to take it seriously
Authors: Jalaludin Bin , Cowie Christine
Published: February 2014

Worldwide, there were over 3 million deaths attributable to exposure to excessive levels of particulate air pollution in 2010. This is similar to the number of deaths attributable to high blood sugar (3.4 million) but less than the number of deaths attributed to smoking (5.7 million) and excessive alcohol consumption (5.0 million). Globally, ambient particulate air pollution was the ninth leading cause of premature deaths, and most of the disease attributable to exposure to ambient particulate air pollution is cardiovascular disease. Short-term and long-term exposures to outdoor particulate matter pollution are associated with a range of adverse cardiovascular health effects such as heart rate variability, development of atherosclerosis, myocardial ischemia, myocardial infarction, stroke, and deaths. Despite this, there is not the same recognition of particulate air pollution as an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality compared to the more established risk factors such as cigarette smoking and hypertension. It is now time to reevaluate the contribution of particulate air pollution to cardiovascular disease.
Narrating the Death of Jesus in Mark: Utterances of the Main Character, Jesus
Authors: Breytenbach Cilliers
Published: February 2014

Abstract: Im Rahmen seines Textes lässt der Erzähler des Evangeliums nach Markus die Hauptfigur der Erzählung, Jesus, dessen Tod selbst durch gezielte Aussagen im Voraus deuten (Mk 8,31; 9,31; 10,33; 14,21.41). Da niemand beim Endgericht ein Tauschmittel für sein Leben hat (8,37), gibt er, der Menschensohn, sein Leben als Lösegeld für viele (10,45). Er starb gewaltsam als Auslösung für viele (14,24), kommt aber als Menschensohn am Ende wieder, um die, die ihm und seinem Evangelium treu blieben (8,35 f.), zu retten (13,26 f.). Diese Sinngebung des Todes Jesu ist traditionsgeschichtlich unabhängig von der (vor-)paulinischen Deutung des Sterbens Christi, der Vorstellung von der Auslieferung des Gottessohnes „‚für‘ unsere Sünde/uns/alle“.
NFIB-Mediated Repression of the Epigenetic FactorEzh2Regulates Cortical Development
Authors: Piper Michael , Barry Guy , Harvey Tracey J. , McLeay Robert , Smith Aaron G. , Harris Lachlan , Mason Sharon , Stringer Brett W. , Day Bryan W. , Wray Naomi R. , Gronostajski Richard M. , Bailey Timothy L. , Boyd Andrew W. , Richards Linda J.
Published: February 2014

Epigenetic mechanisms are essential in regulating neural progenitor cell self-renewal, with the chromatin-modifying protein Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) emerging as a central player in promoting progenitor cell self-renewal during cortical development. Despite this, howEzh2is itself regulated remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that the transcription factor nuclear factor IB (NFIB) plays a key role in this process.Nfib−/−mice exhibit an increased number of proliferative ventricular zone cells that express progenitor cell markers and upregulation of EZH2 expression within the neocortex and hippocampus. NFIB binds to theEzh2promoter and overexpression of NFIB repressesEzh2transcription. Finally, key downstream targets of EZH2-mediated epigenetic repression are misregulated inNfib−/−mice. Collectively, these results suggest that the downregulation ofEzh2transcription by NFIB is an important component of the process of neural progenitor cell differentiation during cortical development.
The Hippocampal CA2 Ensemble Is Sensitive to Contextual Change
Authors: Wintzer Marie E. , Boehringer Roman , Polygalov Denis , McHugh Thomas J.
Published: February 2014

Contextual learning involves associating cues with an environment and relating them to past experience. Previous data indicate functional specialization within the hippocampal circuit: the dentate gyrus (DG) is crucial for discriminating similar contexts, whereas CA3 is required for associative encoding and recall. Here, we usedArc/H1acatFISH imaging to address the contribution of the largely overlooked CA2 region to contextual learning by comparing ensemble codes across CA3, CA2, and CA1 in mice exposed to familiar, altered, and novel contexts. Further, to manipulate the quality of information arriving in CA2 we used two hippocampal mutant mouse lines, CA3-NR1 KOs and DG-NR1 KOs, that result in hippocampal CA3 neuronal activity that is uncoupled from the animal's sensory environment. Our data reveal largely coherent responses across the CA axis in control mice in purely novel or familiar contexts; however, in the mutant mice subject to these protocols the CA2 response becomes uncoupled from CA1 and CA3. Moreover, we show in wild-type mice that the CA2 ensemble is more sensitive than CA1 and CA3 to small changes in overall context. Our data suggest that CA2 may be tuned to remap in response to any conflict between stored and current experience.
Ubiquilin-1 Protects Cells from Oxidative Stress and Ischemic Stroke Caused Tissue Injury in Mice
Authors: Liu Yanying , Lü Lanhai , Hettinger Casey L. , Dong Gaofeng , Zhang Dong , Rezvani Khosrow , Wang Xuejun , Wang Hongmin
Published: February 2014

Ubiquilin-1 (Ubqln1 or Ubqln), a ubiquitin-like protein, mediates degradation of misfolded proteins and has been implicated in a number of pathological and physiological conditions. To better understand its functionin vivo, we recently generated transgenic (Tg) mice that globally overexpress mouse Ubqln in a variety of tissues andubqlnconditional knock-out mice. The Tg mice were viable and did not show any developmental or behavioral abnormalities compared with their wild-type (WT) littermates. When subjected to oxidative stress or ischemia/reperfusion, however,ubqlnTg mice but not the WT littermates showed increased tolerance to these insults. Following ischemic stroke,ubqlnTg mice recovered motor function more rapidly than did the WT mice. In contrast, KO ofubqlnexacerbated neuronal damage after stroke. In addition, KO ofubqlnalso caused accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins. WhenubqlnKO mice were crossed with a ubiquitin-proteasome system function reporter mouse, the accumulation of a proteasome surrogate substrate was observed. These results suggest that Ubqln protects mice from oxidative stress and ischemic stroke-caused neuronal injury through facilitating removal of damaged proteins. Thus, enhanced removal of unwanted proteins is a potential therapeutic strategy for treating stroke-caused neuronal injury.
DIAGNOSIS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY: Quantification of cancer risk of each clinical and ultrasonographic suspicious feature of thyroid nodules: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Campanella Paolo , Ianni Francesca , Rota Carlo Antonio , Corsello Salvatore Maria , Pontecorvi Alfredo
Published: February 2014

Objective

In order to quantify the risk of malignancy of clinical and ultrasonographic features of thyroid nodules (TNs), we did a systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies.

Methods

We did a literature search in MEDLINE for studies published from 1st January 1989 until 31st December 2012. Studies were considered eligible if they investigated the association between at least one clinical/ultrasonographic feature and the risk of malignancy, did not have exclusion criteria for the detected nodules, had histologically confirmed the diagnoses of malignancy, and had a univariable analysis available. Two reviewers independently extracted data on study characteristics and outcomes.

Results

The meta-analysis included 41 studies, for a total of 29 678 TN. A higher risk of malignancy expressed in odds ratio (OR) was found for the following: nodule height greater than width (OR: 10.15), absent halo sign (OR: 7.14), microcalcifications (OR: 6.76), irregular margins (OR: 6.12), hypoechogenicity (OR: 5.07), solid nodule structure (OR: 4.69), intranodular vascularization (OR: 3.76), family history of thyroid carcinoma (OR: 2.29), nodule size ≥4 cm (OR: 1.63), single nodule (OR: 1.43), history of head/neck irradiation (OR: 1.29), and male gender (OR: 1.22).

Interestingly, meta-regression analysis showed a higher risk of malignancy for hypoechoic nodules in iodine-sufficient than in iodine-deficient geographical areas.

Conclusions

The current meta-analysis verified and weighed out each suspicious clinical and ultrasonographic TN feature. The highest risk was found for nodule height greater than width, absent halo sign, and microcalcifications for ultrasonographic features and family history of thyroid carcinoma for clinical features. A meta-analysis-derived grading system of TN malignancy risk, validated on a large prospective cohort, could be a useful tool in TN diagnostic work-up.
Changes in Neck and Back Pain, Cervical Range of Motion and Cervical and Lumbar Flexion‐relaxation Ratios after Below‐knee Assembly Work
Authors: Shin Seung‐Je , Yoo Won‐Gyu
Published: February 2014

Changes in Neck and Back Pain, Cervical Range of Motion and Cervical and Lumbar Flexionrelaxation Ratios after Below‐knee Assembly Work: Seung‐je SHIN, et al. Department of Physical Therapy, The Graduate School, Inje University, Republic of Korea—

Objectives

This study examined the changes in neck and back pain visual analog scale (VAS) scores, cervical range of motion (CROM), cervical flexion‐relaxation ratio (FRR) and lumbar FRR after below‐knee assembly work.

Methods

Fifteen young male workers were recruited. Neck and back pain VAS scores, active CROM and cervical and lumbar FRRs were measured in all subjects once before and once after 10 minutes of below‐knee assembly work.

Results

The VAS scores for both neck and back pain increased significantly with below‐knee assembly work. The CROM for all measures decreased significantly with below‐knee assembly work. Both the cervical and lumbar FRRs on the left and right sides decreased significantly with below‐knee assembly work.

Conclusions

We postulate that 10 minutes of below‐knee assembly work can increase neck and back pain and cause changes in the active CROM and cervical and lumbar FRRs.
Personal, Biomechanical, Organizational and Psychosocial Risk Factors for Neck Disorders in a Working Population
Authors: Petit Audrey , Ha Catherine , Bodin Julie , Parot‐Schinkel Elsa , Ramond Aline , Leclerc Annette , Imbernon Ellen , Roquelaure Yves
Published: February 2014

Personal, Biomechanical, Organizational and Psychosocial Risk Factors for Neck Disorders in a Working Population: Audrey PETIT, et al. LUNAM University, Laboratory of Ergonomics and Epidemiology in Occupational health, (LEEST), University of Angers, Faculty of Medicine, France—

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess both personal and occupational risk factors for non‐specific neck disorder (ND) in a representative working population characterized by various levels of exposure to work‐related constraints. ND during the preceding 7 days was assessed in 3,710 workers surveyed by 83 occupational physicians between 2002 and 2005. Personal risk factors and work exposure were assessed by a standardized examination and a self‐administered questionnaire. Associations between ND and personal and occupational factors were analyzed using logistic regression modeling separately in men and in women.

Results

The personal risk factors for ND were age (OR for 1‐year increment 1.02, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.03 in men and 1.03 [1.01−1.04] in women) and previous history of arthritis disease (OR 2.39 [1.17−4.91] in men and 3.95 [1.92−8.12] in women). The risk of ND increased with previous history or upper limb musculoskeletal disorders in men (OR 1.58 [1.17−2.13]) and decreased with BMI in women (OR for 1‐kg/m2increment 0.96, [0.93−0.99]). The work‐related risk factors of ND were sustained or repeated arm abduction (OR 2.08 [1.35−3.21] in men and 2.22 [1.27−3.86] in women) and neck flexion (OR 1.64 [1.26−2.12] in women). Work pace dependent on customers (OR 1.42 [1.10−1.83]) and psychological demand of the task (OR 1.49 [1.15−1.92]) increased the risk of ND in men. Work pace dependent on quantified targets (OR 1.37 [1.05−1.79]) and low supervisor support (OR 1.68 [1.30−2.17] ) increased the risk of ND in women. This study highlighted the multifactorial nature of ND.
Building a Common Pediatric Research Terminology for Accelerating Child Health Research
Authors: Kahn Michael G. , Bailey L. Charles , Forrest Christopher B. , Padula Michael A. , Hirschfeld Steven
Published: February 2014

Longitudinal observational clinical data on pediatric patients in electronic format is becoming widely available. A new era of multi-institutional data networks that study pediatric diseases and outcomes across disparate health delivery models and care settings are also enabling an innovative collaborative rapid improvement paradigm called the Learning Health System. However, the potential alignment of routine clinical care, observational clinical research, pragmatic clinical trials, and health systems improvement requires a data infrastructure capable of combining information from systems and workflows that historically have been isolated from each other. Removing barriers to integrating and reusing data collected in different settings will permit new opportunities to develop a more complete picture of a patient’s care and to leverage data from related research studies. One key barrier is the lack of a common terminology that provides uniform definitions and descriptions of clinical observations and data. A well-characterized terminology ensures a common meaning and supports data reuse and integration. A common terminology allows studies to build upon previous findings and to reuse data collection tools and data management processes. We present the current state of terminology harmonization and describe a governance structure and mechanism for coordinating the development of a common pediatric research terminology that links to clinical terminologies and can be used to align existing terminologies. By reducing the barriers between clinical care and clinical research, a Learning Health System can leverage and reuse not only its own data resources but also broader extant data resources.
Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Gadó Klára , Domján Gyula
Published: February 2014

Thrombocytopenia means low platelet count. This is the most frequent cause of bleeding abnormalities. Petechias, purpuras, mucosal bleeding are typical clinical findings. Severe, even life threatening gastrointestinal or intracranial bleeding may also occur. Diagnostic laboratory finding is the prolonged bleeding time. There are several causes of thrombocytopenia. The major mechanisms for a reduced platelet count are decreased production and increased destruction of platelets, or both. The major task is to reveal the underlying cause. Examination of the bone marrow and the peripheral blood smear can be helpful as well as special diagnostics of the assumed disease. Therapy targets the underlying disease, and also involves platelet transfusion. However, in case of diseases with increased platelet activation and consumption, platelet transfusion is forbidden because it may lead to aggravation of the pathologic process. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(8), 291–303.
Bacterial translocation: gap in the shield
Authors: Rosero Olivér , Kovács Tibor , Ónody Péter , Harsányi László , Szijártó Attila
Published: February 2014

The gastrointestinal tract is not only regarded as a system where nutrient absorption takes place, but also as a vital barrier against intraluminal pathogens entering the circulation and the maintenance of immune homeostasis. Bacterial translocation is defined as the penetration of viable bacteria or bacterial compounds from the gastrointestinal tract to extraintestinal sites. This disorder has been described in several clinical conditions. The main promoting factors for bacterial translocation have been proposed to be changes in the intestinal microflora, mucosal barrier failure and defects in host immunity. The presence of bacterial translocation has been associated with higher complications and mortality rates; therefore it should be taken into account in the therapeutic strategies of patients with predisposing factors. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(8), 304–312.