bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Prediabetes and Undiagnosed Diabetes in Canada (2007–2011) According to Fasting Plasma Glucose and HbA1c Screening Criteria
Authors: Rosella Laura C. , Lebenbaum Michael , Fitzpatrick Tiffany , Zuk Aleksandra , Booth Gillian L.
Published: April 2015

OBJECTIVE

To provide the first population-based estimates of prediabetes and undiagnosed type 2 diabetes prevalence in Canada.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We combined two fasting subsamples of the Canadian Health Measures Survey, which were restricted to nonpregnant adults ≥20 years of age (N = 3,494). Undiagnosed diabetes was defined as not having self-reported type 2 diabetes but having blood glucose measures that met Canadian guidelines (i.e., fasting plasma glucose [FPG] level of ≥7.0 mmol/L or hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c] level of ≥6.5% [≥48 mmol/mol]). Prediabetes was defined as an FPG level of ≥6.1 and <7.0 mmol/L or an HbA1c level of ≥6.0% and <6.5% (≥42 and <48 mmol/mol). All estimates were weighted using survey sampling weights. CIs were calculated with the bootstrap method.

RESULTS

According to FPG levels, the prevalence of undiagnosed type 2 diabetes in Canadian adults was 1.13% (95% CI 0.79, 1.62), contributing to ∼20% of total type 2 diabetes prevalence (5.62 [95% CI 4.52, 6.95]). Compared with FPG levels, the undiagnosed prevalence was greater using HbA1c level as a criterion (3.09% [95% CI 1.97, 4.81]), ∼41% of the total number of cases of diabetes (7.55 [95% CI 5.98, 9.49]). The HbA1c-only criterion resulted in a threefold increase in prediabetes prevalence overall and a sixfold increase among females (FPG 2.22%, HbA1c 13.31%). Screening based on FPG only identified older undiagnosed case patients, with a mean age of 58.7 years (95% CI 59.9, 63.4). Similarly, using HbA1c identified younger individuals with prediabetes, with reduced BMI and waist circumference compared with FPG levels.

CONCLUSIONS

In this first study of a nationally representative sample with biospecimen measures, we found that the prevalence of undiagnosed type 2 diabetes and prediabetes was significantly higher using HbA1c levels compared with FPG levels. Further evaluation is needed to fully assess the impact of using the HbA1c criterion.
Longitudinal Association Between Endothelial Dysfunction, Inflammation, and Clotting Biomarkers With Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Type 1 Diabetes: An Evaluation of the DCCT/EDIC Cohort
Authors: Hunt Kelly J. , Baker Nathaniel L. , Cleary Patricia A. , Klein Richard , Virella Gabriel , Lopes-Virella Maria F. ,   the DCCT/EDIC Group of Investigators
Published: April 2015

OBJECTIVE

There is considerable interest in identifying biomarkers that predict high risk for the development of macrovascular complications in patients with diabetes. Therefore, the longitudinal association between subclinical atherosclerosis as measured by internal carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) and acute-phase reactants, cytokines/adipokines, thrombosis, and adhesion molecules was examined.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Biomarkers were measured at four time points over 20 years in 886 DCCT/EDIC participants with type 1 diabetes. Four composite scores were created by combining z scores generated from within the data set of individual biomarkers: acute-phase reactants (fibrinogen, C-reactive protein), thrombosis (fibrinogen, active and total plasminogen activator inhibitor [PAI]-1), cytokines/adipokines (tumor necrosis factor receptor-1 and -2, active and total PAI-1, IL-6), and endothelial dysfunction (soluble intracellular adhesion molecule-1, soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, and soluble E-selectin). Internal carotid IMT was measured at EDIC years 1, 6, and 12, with elevated IMT defined at each time point as being in the upper quintile of its distribution.

RESULTS

Logistic regression models indicate that while individual biomarkers were not predictive of or associated with subclinical atherosclerosis, composite scores of acute-phase reactants (odds ratio [OR] 2.78 [95% CI 1.42, 5.42]), thrombolytic factors (OR 2.83 [95% CI 1.45, 5.52]), and cytokines/adipokines (OR 2.83 [95% CI 1.48, 5.41]) measured at our final time point EDIC years 8–11 were associated with higher levels of atherosclerosis at EDIC year 12, but findings were not consistent at early time points. The endothelial dysfunction score was not appreciably predictive of or associated with subclinical atherosclerosis at any of the time points measured.

CONCLUSIONS

The pathophysiologic relationship between higher biomarker levels and progression of subclinical atherosclerosis remains unclear.
Balneotherapy of Psoriasis
Authors: Golušin Zoran , Jovanović Marina , Jeremić Biljana , Jolić Siniša
Published: April 2015

Application of different kinds of mineral waters and peloids on the skin exerts mechanical, thermal and chemical effects. Significant reduction of inflammation and increased differentiation of keratinocytes may explain why balneotherapy has positive clinical effects in psoriatic patients. In vitro models have shown that thermal water stimulates interleukin-2 production after cell stimulation by staphylococcal enterotoxin B, and reduces interleukin-4 secretion. After balneotherapy, a significant decrease in Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI), associated with a significant reduction of interleukin-8, Staphylococcus aureus colonization and enterotoxin N, have been reported in patients with psoriasis. Mineral water was found to have inhibitory in vitro effects on substance P, TNF-α release and antigen-induced cell degranulation. Immunomodulatory effects of water depend on its content. Sulfur waters have beneficial anti-inflammatory, keratolytic, and antipruriginous effects and also possess antibacterial and antifungal properties. The effectiveness of balneotherapy in the treatment of psoriasis has been reported in many studies conducted all over the world. The majority of studies were conducted at the Dead Sea coast. Investigations showed that balneotherapy factors are important therapeutic factors in the treatment of psoriatic patients. The first and only comparable study of this kind in Serbia, was conducted in Prolom Spa with satisfactory therapeutic results.
Cutaneous Manifestations of Toxoplasmosis: a Case Report
Authors: Marina Sonya , Broshtilova Valja , Botev Ivo , Guleva Dimitrina , Hadzhiivancheva Maria , Nikolova Assia , Kazandjieva Jana
Published: April 2015

Although toxoplasmosis is one of the most widely spread infections in the world, types that involve the skin are extremely rare. However, skin lesions are not specific; moreover, they are quite diverse, which makes the diagnosis of cutaneous toxoplasmosis rather difficult. Thus, differential diagnosis should include a number of other diseases. We present a case of a 43-year-old immunocompetent man with multiple livid erythematous papules and nodules with yellowish discharge that involved the skin of the body and the extremities. By using electro-chemiluminescence immunoassay, immunoglobulin G antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii were detected in the serum, confirming the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis. The treatment with pyrimethamine and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole led to complete resolution of skin lesions. In conclusion, although rare in the dermatological practice, cutaneous toxoplasmosis should be considered in all patients presenting with lymphadenopathy, non-specific skin eruptions, especially nodular and colliquative, blood eosinophilia and histological findigs revealing abundant eosinophilic inflitrations.
Chronic Vulvovaginal Candida Hypersensitivity: An Underrecognized and Undertreated Disorder by Allergists
Authors: Bernstein Jonathan A. , Seidu Luqman
Published: April 2015

Vulvovaginal candidiasis infections are estimated to occur at least once during the lifetime of 75% of the female population. It has been proposed that some women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) develop sensitization to Candida albicans and clinically improve in response to Candida immunotherapy. Here, we report a case series of 12 women diagnosed with chronic vulvovaginal Candida hypersensitivity subsequently treated with Candida immunotherapy and review potential systemic and localized host immune defense mechanisms involved in C. albicans overgrowth and sensitization. A retrospective review of vulvovaginal Candida hypersensitivity in women who were treated with C. albicans immunotherapy over the past eight years was conducted. Twelve women who qualified for a diagnosis of vulvovaginal Candida hypersensitivity were treated with Candida immunotherapy. Eleven of the 12 (92%) women reported clinical improvement after immunotherapy. The majority of these women were not sensitized to seasonal or perennial aeroallergens and clinically responded to lower concentrations of C. albicans allergen than what has been previously reported. In general, Candida immunotherapy was well tolerated. Chronic vulvovaginal Candida hypersensitivity is an underrecognized disorder by primary care physicians and therefore an undertreated disorder by allergists. A double-blinded, placebo-controlled randomized trial is necessary to firmly establish the efficacy of treatment with Candida immunotherapy. This investigation should be designed to include mechanistic studies that would help to better understand the etiology of this disorder.
A Postal Survey of Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangectasia in the Northeast of England
Authors: Ramakrishnan Yujay , Iqbal Isma Z. , Puvanendran Mark , ElBadawey Mohamed Reda , Carrie Sean
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study is to identify the demographics and epistaxis burden of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). A questionnaire was sent to participants with HHT who were recruited from a prospectively maintained respiratory clinic data base in a tertiary hospital. Details on demographics, HHT symptoms, family history, epistaxis severity, and treatment received were recorded. There were 34 of 60 responses (57%). Two responses were from families of the deceased. Of the 32 evaluable patients (men, 14; women 18), the average age was 51 years (range, 23–78 years). The average age of HHT diagnosis was 31 years (range, 3–61 years). The diagnosis of HHT was made by the respiratory team in 13 patients; neurologist (2); ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist (4); general practitioner (5); hematologist (4); gastroenterologist (1); and not mentioned in two patients. Twenty-seven of 32 patients (84%) had a positive family history of HHT. Only 13 patients had formal genetic testing (4 endoglin, 1 activin receptor–like kinase, 8 unknown gene). All patients who presented to the respiratory clinic had a background of epistaxis, which was noted on presentation. The average age at initial epistaxis was 14 years (range, 2–50 years). The frequency of epistaxis was daily 63% (n = 20), weekly 9% (3), monthly 16% (5), and a few times a year 10% (3), and unstated in one patient. Nine of 32 patients (28%) required a transfusion. Six patients thought that they were unable to perform daily activities due to epistaxis. Only 15 of 32 patients (47%) were under the care of an ENT specialist. The treatment plan for epistaxis management was deemed good by 7 patients, adequate in 8, poor in 6, and not stated by 11 patients. In conclusion, this survey is the first to quantify the epistaxis burden within the northeast of England. The management of epistaxis needs specific education and treatment to optimize the quality of life among these patients.
Endoscopic Dacryocystorhinostomy as Treatment for Lower Lacrimal Pathway Obstructions in Adults: Review Article
Authors: Penttilä Elina , Smirnov Grigori , Tuomilehto Henri , Kaarniranta Kai , Seppä Juha
Published: April 2015

Obstruction of the lacrimal pathway is manifested by epiphora, infection, and blurred vision as well as ocular and facial pain. Conservative treatments only achieve temporary relief of symptoms, thus surgery is the treatment of choice. Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) is recognized as the most suitable treatment for patients with obstructions of the lacrimal system at the level of the sac or in the nasolacrimal duct. The aim of this operation is to create a bypass between the lacrimal sac and the nasal cavity. During the past 2 decades, advances in rigid endoscopic equipment and other instruments have made it possible to obtain more information about the anatomic landmarks of the nasolacrimal system, which led to the development of less-invasive and safer endoscopic techniques. However, many parts of the treatment process related to endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy (EN-DCR) still remain controversial. This article reviews the published literature about the technical issues associated with the success of EN-DCR, and clarifies the pros and cons of different pre- and postoperative procedures in adults with lower lacrimal pathway obstructions.
Acute Deterioration in Pleomorphic Xanthoastrocytoma in a Child
Authors: Roka YB , Pandey SR , Roka N
Published: April 2015

Pleomorphic Xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) occur in less than 1 % of cases and usually present in the second decade. They present with seizures, focal deficits, intratumoral bleed and rarely with malignant transformation. The few cases that have been reported with acute deterioration in PXA have been secondary to intratumoral bleed. We present a case of PXA in a child that deteriorated secondary to high intracranial pressure which was managed successfully. J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2014;34(3):233-235 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v34i3.10098
Antioxidants in Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy
Authors: Rathee AVS , Prasad PL
Published: April 2015

Introduction: Perinatal asphyxia and related injuries are leading cause of morbidity and mortality in India. These babies are at risk to develop hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) due to multiple organ including brain damage. The role of malondialdehyde (MDA) as a marker of free radical injury has been well established. Vitamin C and alpha Tocopherols have neutralizing effects on the free radicals. Considering these facts, it was decided to estimate serum MDA level in cases of HIE and the neutralizing effects of Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Material and Methods: The study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching hospital. Neonates with an Apgar score of <6 at 5 minutes and birth weight >2500g were included in the study. They were randomized into two groups. One group was given Vit E and vitamin C and the other was not given any of the anti oxidants. Serum MDA level were measured in both groups. Result: Serum MDA level was found to be increasing in both groups, but the increase was significantly higher in group II where antioxidants were not given. It was also found that serum MDA level was significantly low in antioxidants groups with HIE than those without antioxidants. Conclusion: Antioxidants supplementation in cases of HIE is associated with lesser production of free radicals and their neutralization is affected by antioxidants resulting into lesser damage to brain. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v34i3.10122 J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2014;34(3):171-174.
Community Based Nutrition Education for Promoting Nutritional Status of Children under Three Years of Age in Rural Areas of Mahottari District of Nepal
Authors: Yadav DK , Gupta N , Shrestha N , Kumar A , Bose DK
Published: April 2015

Introduction: Maternal and child mortality have declined significantly in Nepal to the extent that Nepal is on track to meet the Millennium Development Goals for maternal and child mortality. Similar improvements have not been seen in general nutrition status of them. Objective of this study was to evaluate a nutrition-education intervention designed to improve nutritional status (reduce stunting, wasting and underweight) of children. Materials and Methods: It was an intervention with separate sample pretest posttest design. Two groups of Village Development Committee (VDC) from Mahottari district were recruited as interventional and control areas. The intervention was a 12-months nutrition education program and comprised of twelve times with 2-3 hour nutrition lectures and discussion classless conducted by the Female Community Health Volunteers (FCHVs). Results: The Present study found that number of underweight children increased by 7.6% in control group while it decreased by 17.7% in intervention group from baseline to endline in both groups. So, intervention programme was able to decrease the number of underweight children significantly. Study shows that wasting status of children increased by 11.4% in control group from baseline to endline period. While in intervention group wasting status of children decreased by more than 5% from baseline to endline period. Conclusion: Nutrition education intervention was effective to reduce wasting and underweight but did not reduce the stunting status of children. Stunting reflects failure to receive adequate nutrition over a long period of time and is affected by recurrent and chronic illness. Findings suggested that nutrition programme of longer duration should be implemented to control the stunting status of children. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v34i3.10286   J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2014;34(3):181-187
Greek Warrior Helmet Facies (Wolf-hirschhorn Syndrome)
Authors: Biswas P , Choudhury R , Gayen S , Guha D , Roy S , Dasgupta MK
Published: April 2015

Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome (WHS) is caused by a chromosomal deletion of the band 4p16.3 with characteristic craniofacial features -’Greek warrior helmet’5 facies (prominent glabella, hypertelorism, broad beaked nose and frontal bossing), high-arched eyebrows, protruding eyes, epicanthal folds, short philtrum, distinct mouth with downturned corners, micrognathia, dysplastic ears, preauricular tags. Till date there are very few case reports of Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome.Here we report a case that had characteristic dysmorphic facies (Figure 1) ‘Greek warrior helmet’ and was diagnosed as a case of WHS. But presence of Meningo-encephalocele and lissencephaly is rarely reported in literature in association with Wolf-hirschhorn syndrome till date. J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2014;34(3):239-243 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v34i3.10289
Anti-Tubercular Treatment of Tuberculous Meningitis Cause Paradoxical Multiple Neurotuberculoma
Authors: Kumar MK , Kumar P , Singh A
Published: April 2015

Tuberculosis is the most common cause of infectious disease related mortality worldwide. Paradoxical reactions to antituberculous treatment have created difficulties in the management of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, particularly central nervous system tuberculosis. We report a three years baby with tuberculous meningitis, who was treated outside with anti-tuberculous drugs without steroid one month back and presented in our emergency as status epilepticus. This case emphasizes the importance of addition of steroid along with anti-tubercular drugs in the treatment of central nervous system tuberculosis. J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2014;34(3):236-238 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v34i3.10752
Neonatal Sepsis: A Profile of a Changing Spectrum
Authors: Venkatnarayan K , Bej PK , Thapar RK
Published: April 2015

Introduction: The clinical features of neonatal sepsis are protean and are based on variety of clinical, demographic and laboratory profile of suspected cases. Objectives: To describe the aforementioned profiles in neonates presenting with clinically suspected sepsis based on pre-defined clinical criteria. Material and Methods: Design: Cross-Sectional Study; Setting: Level-2 NICU, Tertiary Care Hospital; Duration: Jan 2011 to Jul 2012. Subjects: 50 consecutive neonates presenting with any of the predefined clinical criteria were assessed for presence of maternal risk factors and studied with respect to: Gestational age, sepsis screen, clinical profile and antibiotic sensitivity of the organisms cultured. Results: Out of the fifty neonates, 38 (76%) were early onset sepsis. The sepsis screen showed an overall sensitivity of 73%, specificity of 54%; with a positive predictive value of 41% and a negative predictive value of 83%. The most common organism cultured was Staphylococcus aureus followed by E Coli, Pseudomonas, Coagulase Negative Staphylococcus and Group B Streptococcus. Ampicillin and Amikacin fared better than Cefotaxime and Gentamicin for Gram positive and Gram negative organisms, respectively. Overall, 37 babies responded to first line antibiotics and 11 required a change of antibiotics. One required addition of inotropes and two of the neonates died. Conclusion: A clinical diagnosis of sepsis based on predefined clinical criteria along with maternal risk factors, over- treated 27 babies (71%) with EONS and 8 babies (66.6%) with LONS. However, such a clinical diagnosis was supported by a septic screen almost twice as frequently (50% Vs 26.3%) in LONS. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism isolated. J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2014;34(3):207-214 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v34i3.11236
Is Iron Deficiency Anaemia, a risk Factor For Wheeze Associated Respiratory Tract Infection in Children?
Authors: Agrawal A , Gupta R , Sodhi KD , Raghav V
Published: April 2015

Introduction: Wheezing is the common in children with cumulative prevalence of almost 50% by the age of 6 yrs. Iron deficiency anaemia is an independent risk factor for lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI), however may also play an important role in wheeze associated respiratory tract infection. The present study aimed at finding a correlation between iron deficiency anaemia and wheeze associated respiratory tract infection. Materials and Methods: This case control study was conducted at a multidisciplinary tertiary care hospital from Jul 2012 to Jun 2013 among children six months to five years and having ≥2 episodes of wheeze associated respiratory tract infections. The clinical presentation and laboratory profile were recorded on a predesigned performa. Iron deficiency anaemia was diagnosed by haemoglobin <11.0 gm%, serum ferritin<12ng/ml and RDW>15%. The statistical analysis was done using SPSS, Version 15.0. Results: A total of 100 children were enrolled in the study, of which 50 cases and 50 matched controls. Majority of subjects in both groups were males (n=31;62%),with male to female ratio of 1.6:1. Proportion of cases with iron deficiency anaemia were higher among cases(32%) as compared to controls(24%) but the difference between two groups was not significant statistically (p=0.373) despite having higher risk(OR=1.49;95% CI=0.62-3.59). Mean monocyte, oeosinophil and absolute oeosinophil count was found to be significantly higher in cases as compared to controls (p<0.05). Conclusion: The present study do not suggest a possible linkage between iron deficiency anemia and wheeze associated respiratory infection, however its role as causative factor needs to be explored through long-term prospective and intervention studies on a large population.J Nepal Paediatr Soc 2014;34(3):195-199 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jnps.v34i3.11378
Knowledge and Practice of Mother regarding Exclusive Breastfeeding having Infant at a Tertiary Level Hospital, Kathmandu
Authors: Adhikari TM
Published: April 2015

Introduction: Promotion of exclusive breastfeeding is a cost effective intervention to reduce infant mortality in developing countries. The objective of this study was to identify knowledge and practice of mothers regarding exclusive breastfeeding. Material and Methods: This was a descriptive exploratory study carried out in the immunization clinic of tertiary level hospital in Kathmandu. A total of 323 mothers who came for immunization of six months to one year were selected as the sample for the study by using non-probability purposive sampling technique. Semi - structured interview questionnaire was used to collect the data both on knowledge and practice of exclusive breastfeeding, from 13th July to 8th September 2014. Results: Study findings revealed that 84.5 % of the respondents were aware of the correct meaning of exclusive breastfeeding and 49.5 % of the respondents practiced exclusively breastfeeding to their children up to 6 months. There was statistically significant association of respondent’s level of knowledge regarding exclusive breast feeding with their educational status (p = 0.034, OR = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.03-2.66) and type of delivery (p = 0.005, OR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.2-3). Likewise, a significant association was seen between respondent’s level of practice regarding EBF and type of delivery (p = 0.005, OR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.2-3). Conclusion: Study concludes that only about half of the mothers tended to have adequate knowledge regarding exclusive breast feeding. However, practice of exclusive breastfeeding for up to six months tended to be low so there should be efforts on encouraging and counseling for exclusive breast-feeding up to six months in hospital, community and immunization clinic.
How to encourage intrinsic motivation in the clinical teaching environment?: a systematic review from the self-determination theory
Authors: Orsini Cesar , Evans Phillip , Jerez Oscar
Published: April 2015

Purpose: Internalization of students’ motivation towards an intrinsic form is associated with increased interest, commitment, learning, and satisfaction with education. Self-Determination theory postulates that intrinsic motivation and autonomous forms of self-regulation are the desired type of motivation; as they have been associated with deep learning, better performance and well-being. It claims three basic psychological needs have to be satisfied in order to achieve intrinsic motivation. These are the needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness. This study aims to provide a review on how these basic psychological needs are encouraged in undergraduate students so they can be transferred to the clinical teaching environment. Methods: Electronic searches were performed across four databases (Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, and ERIC), relevant journals, and retrieved bibliography of selected articles. In total, searches produced 4,869 references, from which 16 studies met the inclusion criteria. Results: Main themes were coded in three categories: The support of autonomy, competence and relatedness. The research-based evidence appears to be of reasonable quality, and indicates that teachers should work to satisfy students’ basic psychological needs to foster internalization of self-regulation. Our findings suggest that teachers should interact with students in a more ‘human centred’ teaching style, as these actions predict motivational internalization. Several themes emerged from different contexts and further investigation should expand them. Conclusion: This review identified actions that clinical teachers could implement in their daily work to support students’ self-determination. Autonomy supportive teaching in health professions educations would benefit students and may actually result in more effective health care delivery.
The most under-used statistical method in corpus linguistics: multi-level (and mixed-effects) models
Authors: Th. Gries Stefan
Published: April 2015

Much statistical analysis of psycholinguistic data is now being done with so-called mixed-effects regression models. This development was spearheaded by a few highly influential introductory articles that (i) showed how these regression models are superior to what was the previous gold standard and, perhaps even more importantly, (ii) showed how these models are used practically. Corpus linguistics can benefit from mixed-effects/multi-level models for the same reason that psycholinguistics can – because, for example, speaker-specific and lexically specific idiosyncrasies can be accounted for elegantly; but, in fact, corpus linguistics needs them even more because (i) corpus-linguistic data are observational and, thus, usually unbalanced and messy/noisy, and (ii) most widely used corpora come with a hierarchical structure that corpus linguists routinely fail to consider. Unlike nearly all overviews of mixed-effects/multi-level modelling, this paper is specifically written for corpus linguists to get more of them to start using these techniques more. After a short methodological history, I provide a non-technical introduction to mixed-effects models and then discuss in detail one example – particle placement in English – to show how mixed-effects/multi-level modelling results can be obtained and how they are far superior to those of traditional regression modelling.
A Hyphenated Technique based on High-Performance Thin Layer Chromatography for Determining Neutral Sphingolipids: A Proof of Concept
Authors: Domínguez Andrés , Jarne Carmen , Cebolla Vicente , Galbán Javier , Savirón María , Orduna Jesús , Membrado Luis , Lapieza María-Pilar , Romero Elena , Sanz Vicente Isabel , De Marcos Susana , Garriga Rosa
Published: April 2015

Hyphenated HPTLC has been used to analyze several neutral sphingolipids acting as lysosomal storage disease (LSD) biomarkers. Automated multiple development (AMD) provides separation of lipid peaks, which are detected and quantified using fluorescence detection by intensity changes (FDIC) after primuline post-impregnation. A final online transfer to a mass spectrometer by means of an elution-based interface allows their identification using electrospray ionization (ESI) and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI).Given that the increases in fluorescent emission detected by FDIC are produced by non-specific, electrostatic interactions between the primuline and hydrocarbon chains in the ceramide backbones of sphingolipids, it is a non-destructive detection technique, allowing the precise location and transfer of biomarker peaks to a mass spectrometer using an elution interface. By using primuline as a fluorophore, the technique is also compatible with ESI-APCI and does not interfere with the MS of sphingolipids. APCI provides useful and complementary structural information to the ESI for sphingolipid identification. Moreover, FDIC emission can be used for quantitative purposes. Results include the determination of sphingomyelin (SM) in human-plasma samples (RSD < 6%) by means of a standard addition method with non-linear calibration, and the identification of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) in the plasma of a Fabry patient. Only one HPTLC plate is needed to perform the analysis.
Coupling of Petri Net Models of the Mycobacterial Infection Process and Innate Immune Response
Authors: Carvalho Rafael , Van den Heuvel Jeroen , Kleijn Jetty , Verbeek Fons
Published: April 2015

Computational and mathematical modeling is important in support of a better understanding of complex behavior in biology. For the investigation of biological systems, researchers have used computers to construct, verify, and validate models that describe the mechanisms behind biological processes in multi-scale representations. In this paper we combine Petri net models that represent the mycobacterial infection process and innate immune response at various levels of organization, from molecular interaction to granuloma dissemination. In addition to the conventional graphical representation of the Petri net, the outcome of the model is projected onto a 3D model representing the zebrafish embryo. In this manner we provide a visualization of the process in a simulation framework that portrays the infection in the living system.
Mid-Rotation Silviculture Timing Influences Nitrogen Mineralization of Loblolly Pine Plantations in the Mid-South USA
Authors: Blazier Michael , Scott D. , Coleman Ryan
Published: April 2015

Intensively managed loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) plantations often develop nutrient deficiencies near mid-rotation. Common silvicultural treatments for improving stand nutrition at this stage include thinning, fertilization, and vegetation control. It is important to better understand the influence of timing fertilization and vegetation control in relation to thinning as part of improving the efficiency of these practices. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of fertilization and vegetation control conducted within a year prior to thinning and within a year after thinning on soil N supply in mid-rotation loblolly pine plantations on a gradient of soil textures. Net N mineralization (Nmin) and exchangeable N were measured monthly. Fertilization increased annual Nmin at all sites irrespective of timing relative to thinning, with the increase more pronounced when combined with vegetation control. This finding suggests some management flexibility in the timing of mid-rotation fertilization relative to thinning for increasing soil N supply. However, the site with the highest total soil N and the lowest C:N ratio was more prone to NO3-N increases after fertilization conducted pre- and post-thinning. At all sites, fertilization with vegetation control promoted increases in NO3-N when done after thinning, which may indicate that this practice increased soil N supply to levels that exceeded stand N demand.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Toona Ciliata Roem. Based on Sequence-Related Amplified Polymorphism (SRAP) Markers
Authors: Li Pei , Zhan Xin , Que Qingmin , Qu Wenting , Liu Mingqian , Ouyang Kunxi , Li Juncheng , Deng Xiaomei , Zhang Junjie , Liao Boyong , Pian Ruiqi , Chen Xiaoyang
Published: April 2015

Sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers were used to investigate the genetic diversity among 30 populations of Toona ciliata Roem. sampled from the species’ distribution area in China. To analyze the polymorphism in the SRAP profiles, 1505 primer pairs were screened and 24 selected. A total of 656 SRAP bands ranging from 100 to 1500 bp were acquired, of these 505 bands (77%) were polymorphic. The polymorphism information content (PIC) values ranged from 0.32 to 0.45, with an average of 0.41. An analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that the most significant variation was attributable to differences among the populations and that variation within the populations was small. STRUCTURE analysis divided the 30 populations into two parts. The unweighted pair group method of arithmetic averages (UPGMA) clustering and principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) showed that the 30 populations could be classified into four types. The results demonstrate a clear geographical trend for T. ciliata in China and provide a theoretical basis for future breeding and conservation strategy of T. ciliata.
Variation in the Growth Traits and Wood Properties of Hybrid White Poplar Clones
Authors: Ma Huandi , Dong Youming , Chen Zhong , Liao Weihua , Lei Bingqi , Gao Kai , Li Shanwen , An Xinmin
Published: April 2015

The physical and chemical properties of poplar clones largely determine their suitability for different applications. The main objective of this study was to investigate clonal variation in four hybrid poplar clones grown at three sites in North China and identify the superior clone. Study materials were collected from four clones of hybrid white poplar: Populus tomentosa “LM50”, used as the control; two clones (Yiyang-1 and Yiyang-2), new hybrids of (P. tomentosa × P. bolleana) × P. tomentosa “Truncata”; and Yiyang-3, a new hybrid of (P. tomentosa × P. bolleana) × P. tomentosa “LM50”. In total, 192 individuals from four hybrid clones were randomly chosen for sampling. The growth traits of four 7-year-old clones were examined at three sites. We also measured the wood properties of four 6-year-old clones at the Fengfeng nursery. Variation in the growth traits and the ranking of stem volumes differed among sites. Fiber traits and wood chemical components showed significant interclonal variation. With regard to the comprehensive growth rate, cellulose content, holocellulose content, and fiber traits, Yiyang-1 exhibited the best performance among the four hybrid poplar clones, indicating its utility as a raw material for pulp and papermaking.
In Vitro Evaluation of Genotoxic Effects under Magnetic Resonant Coupling Wireless Power Transfer
Authors: Mizuno Kohei , Shinohara Naoki , Miyakoshi Junji
Published: April 2015

Wireless power transfer (WPT) technology using the resonant coupling phenomenon has been widely studied, but there are very few studies concerning the possible relationship between WPT exposure and human health. In this study, we investigated whether exposure to magnetic resonant coupling WPT has genotoxic effects on WI38VA13 subcloned 2RA human fibroblast cells. WPT exposure was performed using a helical coil-based exposure system designed to transfer power with 85.4% efficiency at a 12.5-MHz resonant frequency. The magnetic field at the positions of the cell culture dishes is approximately twice the reference level for occupational exposure as stated in the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP) guidelines. The specific absorption rate at the positions of the cell culture dishes matches the respective reference levels stated in the ICNIRP guidelines. For assessment of genotoxicity, we studied cell growth, cell cycle distribution, DNA strand breaks using the comet assay, micronucleus formation, and hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT) gene mutation, and did not detect any significant effects between the WPT-exposed cells and control cells. Our results suggest that WPT exposure under the conditions of the ICNIRP guidelines does not cause detectable cellular genotoxicity.
Healthy Vinton: A Health Impact Assessment Focused on Water and Sanitation in a Small Rural Town on the U.S.-Mexico Border
Authors: Hargrove William , Juárez-Carillo Patricia , Korc Marcelo
Published: April 2015

We conducted a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) focused on water and sanitation in Vinton, TX, a small rural town on the U.S./Mexico Border. We present the Vinton HIA as a case study to inform the practice of HIA in rural limited resource communities with higher than average levels of unemployment and poverty, and limited infrastructure. Household surveys, focus groups, and interviews provided quantitative and qualitative data on water sources and quality, sanitation practices, and community health. We found that some of the current water sources in Vinton did not meet drinking water standards for total dissolved solids and arsenic; the majority of septic tanks were not managed properly; and there was a short-term risk of water scarcity due to prolonged drought in the region. Prevalent ailments reported by participants included stomach problems, diarrhea, and skin problems. These ailments can be related to arsenic and/or biological organisms in water. The positive direct and indirect health impacts of improved water and sanitation in Vinton included: reduced gastrointestinal illnesses and skin disorders; improved water quality, quantity, and pressure; reduced risks from failing septic systems; increased property value; potential economic growth; and enhanced quality of life. The negative direct and indirect impacts included: residents’ initial and monthly costs; increased property taxes; increased debt by local government; and the need for ongoing support from changing elected decision makers. The unique challenges in completing this HIA included: (a) limited available data; (b) a culture of fear and distrust among residents; (c) residents’ lack of education, awareness, and civic discourse regarding water and sanitation issues and their impact on public health; and (d) lack of civic discourse and participation in the democratic process. An important outcome of the HIA was the characterization of local water supplies, which motivated and empowered the community members to become more involved in civic discourse concerning their water supplies. Results are transferable to similar low-income rural communities worldwide where residents are lacking in information about their water supplies and in political “voice”.
Job Exposure Matrix for Electric Shock Risks with Their Uncertainties
Authors: Vergara Ximena , Fischer Heidi , Yost Michael , Silva Michael , Lombardi David , Kheifets Leeka
Published: April 2015

We present an update to an electric shock job exposure matrix (JEM) that assigned ordinal electric shocks exposure for 501 occupational titles based on electric shocks and electrocutions from two available data sources and expert judgment. Using formal expert elicitation and starting with data on electric injury, we arrive at a consensus-based JEM. In our new JEM, we quantify exposures by adding three new dimensions: (1) the elicited median proportion; (2) the elicited 25th percentile; and (3) and the elicited 75th percentile of those experiencing occupational electric shocks in a working lifetime. We construct the relative interquartile range (rIQR) based on uncertainty interval and the median. Finally, we describe overall results, highlight examples demonstrating the impact of cut point selection on exposure assignment, and evaluate potential impacts of such selection on epidemiologic studies of the electric work environment. In conclusion, novel methods allowed for consistent exposure estimates that move from qualitative to quantitative measures in this population-based JEM. Overlapping ranges of median exposure in various categories reflect our limited knowledge about this exposure.
Characterizing the Heterogeneity of the OpenStreetMap Data and Community
Authors: Ma Ding , Sandberg Mats , Jiang Bin
Published: April 2015

OpenStreetMap (OSM) constitutes an unprecedented, free, geographical information source contributed by millions of individuals, resulting in a database of great volume and heterogeneity. In this study, we characterize the heterogeneity of the entire OSM database and historical archive in the context of big data. We consider all users, geographic elements and user contributions from an eight-year data archive, at a size of 692 GB. We rely on some nonlinear methods such as power law statistics and head/tail breaks to uncover and illustrate the underlying scaling properties. All three aspects (users, elements, and contributions) demonstrate striking power laws or heavy-tailed distributions. The heavy-tailed distributions imply that there are far more small elements than large ones, far more inactive users than active ones, and far more lightly edited elements than heavy-edited ones. Furthermore, about 500 users in the core group of the OSM are highly networked in terms of collaboration.
Combined Enzymatic and Mechanical Cell Disruption and Lipid Extraction of Green Alga Neochloris oleoabundans
Authors: Wang Dongqin , Li Yanqun , Hu Xueqiong , Su Weimin , Zhong Min
Published: April 2015

Microalgal biodiesel is one of the most promising renewable fuels. The wet technique for lipids extraction has advantages over the dry method, such as energy-saving and shorter procedure. The cell disruption is a key factor in wet oil extraction to facilitate the intracellular oil release. Ultrasonication, high-pressure homogenization, enzymatic hydrolysis and the combination of enzymatic hydrolysis with high-pressure homogenization and ultrasonication were employed in this study to disrupt the cells of the microalga Neochloris oleoabundans. The cell disruption degree was investigated. The cell morphology before and after disruption was assessed with scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The energy requirements and the operation cost for wet cell disruption were also estimated. The highest disruption degree, up to 95.41%, assessed by accounting method was achieved by the combination of enzymatic hydrolysis and high-pressure homogenization. A lipid recovery of 92.6% was also obtained by the combined process. The combined process was found to be more efficient and economical compared with the individual process.
Genome-Wide Expression in Visceral Adipose Tissue from Obese Prepubertal Children
Authors: Aguilera Concepción , Gomez-Llorente Carolina , Tofe Inés , Gil-Campos Mercedes , Cañete Ramón , Gil Ángel
Published: April 2015

Characterization of the genes expressed in adipose tissue (AT) is key to understanding the pathogenesis of obesity and to developing treatments for this condition. Our objective was to compare the gene expression in visceral AT (VAT) between obese and normal-weight prepubertal children. A total of fifteen obese and sixteen normal-weight children undergoing abdominal elective surgery were selected. RNA was extracted from VAT biopsies. Microarray experiments were independently performed for each sample (six obese and five normal-weight samples). Validation by quantitative PCR (qPCR) was performed on an additional 10 obese and 10 normal-weight VAT samples. Of 1276 differentially expressed genes (p < 0.05), 245 were more than two-fold higher in obese children than in normal-weight children. As validated by qPCR, expression was upregulated in genes involved in lipid and amino acid metabolism (CES1, NPRR3 and BHMT2), oxidative stress and extracellular matrix regulation (TNMD and NQO1), adipogenesis (CRYAB and AFF1) and inflammation (ANXA1); by contrast, only CALCRL gene expression was confirmed to be downregulated. In conclusion, this study in prepubertal children demonstrates the up- and down-regulation of genes that encode molecules that were previously proposed to influence the pathogenesis of adulthood obesity, as well as previously unreported dysregulated genes that may be candidate genes in the aetiology of obesity.
Lipidomics: An Evolving Discipline in Molecular Sciences
Authors: Astarita Giuseppe , Ollero Mario
Published: April 2015

Recent advances in technologies for lipid analysis have contributed to the consolidation of lipidomics as a distinct discipline in molecular sciences [1–6]. [...]
Mushroom Lectins: Specificity, Structure and Bioactivity Relevant to Human Disease
Authors: Hassan Mohamed , Rouf Razina , Tiralongo Evelin , May Tom , Tiralongo Joe
Published: April 2015

Lectins are non-immunoglobulin proteins that bind diverse sugar structures with a high degree of selectivity. Lectins play crucial role in various biological processes such as cellular signaling, scavenging of glycoproteins from the circulatory system, cell–cell interactions in the immune system, differentiation and protein targeting to cellular compartments, as well as in host defence mechanisms, inflammation, and cancer. Among all the sources of lectins, plants have been most extensively studied. However, more recently fungal lectins have attracted considerable attention due to their antitumor, antiproliferative and immunomodulatory activities. Given that only 10% of mushroom species are known and have been taxonomically classified, mushrooms represent an enormous unexplored source of potentially useful and novel lectins. In this review we provide an up-to-date summary on the biochemical, molecular and structural properties of mushroom lectins, as well as their versatile applications specifically focusing on mushroom lectin bioactivity.