bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability and validity of a self-reported measure of medication adherence in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Korea
Authors: Lee Weon-Young , Ahn Jihyun , Kim Jeung-Hee , Hong Yeon-Pyo , Hong Seung Kwon , Kim Young Taek , Lee Seok Hong , Morisky Donald E
Published: July 2013

Objective

This study examined the psychometric properties of the Korean version of the eight-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) to measure adherence to diabetes medication in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

The English version of the MMAS-8 was translated into Korean and administered to patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus via face-to-face interviews, conducted by an independent interviewer. Patient characteristics and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were assessed at the same clinic visit. A proportion of patients was randomly selected for 2-week test-retest reliability via telephone interviews. Convergent validity of the MMAS-8 against a four-item MMAS, correlations with HbA1c levels and construct validity of the MMAS-8 were evaluated.

Results

In total, 317 patients were included; 70 completed the 2-week test–retest interview. Internal consistency reliability was moderate and test–retest reliability of the MMAS-8 was excellent, although a ceiling effect was detected. Good convergent validity was shown by the high correlation of the new scale scores with the original MMAS-4. A significant association was found between MMAS-8 scores and HbA1c levels. Using glycaemic control as a gold standard, sensitivity was 74.1% and specificity was 38.3%. Explanatory factor analysis identified three dimensions of the scale.

Conclusions

In light of acceptable reliability and validity, the MMAS-8 is a simple and quick method for the assessment of medication adherence among patient with type 2 diabetes mellitus, in a busy clinic setting.
Some studies on poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate), acrylonitrile butadiene copolymer, and their blend reinforced with carbon black
Authors: Asaad Jeannette N , Mansour Samia H , Abd-El-Messieh Salwa L
Published: July 2013

Poly(ethylene- co-vinyl acetate), acrylonitrile butadiene copolymer, and their blend (50/50 wt%) loaded with different concentrations of high-abrasion furnace were prepared. Mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties as well as the morphology and the swelling behavior have been investigated in view of filler loading. The tensile strength values increase with increasing high-abrasion furnace loading while the elongation at break and the swelling index decrease. Also, the thermal stability was improved. The addition of high-abrasion furnace in poly(ethylene- co-vinyl acetate)/acrylonitrile butadiene copolymer improves the interaction and the compatibility between the two polymers as shown by scanning electron microscope.The presence of acrylonitrile butadiene copolymer in the blend increases the thermal stability and the swelling resistance, whereas poly(ethylene- co-vinyl acetate) enhances the tensile strength values of the blends. The permittivity ɛ′ and the dielectric loss ɛ″ values indicate that an abrupt increase was noticed when the concentration of high-abrasion furnace reaches 10 phr for all investigated systems. This increase indicates the tendency of conductivity chain formation through the aggregation of high-abrasion furnace particles network. The percolation theory was applied to detect the percolation threshold for each composite. The effect of thermal aging on mechanical and electrical properties was also studied.
Parables and Politics
Authors: Wickersham Mary Eleanor
Published: July 2013

The passage of a stringent immigration law in Alabama in 2011 makes relevant the juxtaposition of clergy and congregant attitudes and behaviors toward illegal immigrants as related to Biblical teachings that require charity to aliens. In order to examine the relationship between religious attitudes and illegal immigration, approximately 426 members of the Alabama clergy completed an anonymous survey in which they provided information about their own and their perceptions about their churches’ attitudes and actions toward illegal immigration and their responses to the new law. While congregant political philosophy and ethnicity of congregants create some differences in outlook toward illegal immigration, the great majority of churches continue to provide outreach, regardless of political viewpoint.
Strategic Ambiguity
Authors: Currier Danielle M.
Published: July 2013

Hooking up is a term commonly used in contemporary American society to refer to sexual activity between two people who are not in a committed romantic relationship. Data show that although many college students are engaging in hookups, there is no consensus on how to define a hookup. The author uses the concept of “strategic ambiguity” to explore the intentionality and usefulness of the vagueness of this term. Specific to hookups, strategic ambiguity is when individuals use the term “hookup” to describe their sexual activities rather than give details about their sexual activities as an impression management strategy to protect their sexual and social identities. Analyzing data gathered through interviews with heterosexual students at a mid-sized public university in the South, this article addresses the normative character and the myriad definitions of hookups; addresses the underlying heterosexist bias in the definitions of hookups; and analyzes how the ambiguity of the term “hookup” serves women and men in different ways and both reinforces and challenges the current gender order, allowing men to conform to and preserve components of hegemonic masculinity and women to conform to and preserve components of emphasized femininity.
An unusual cause of persistent postpartum vaginal discharge
Authors: Parrott Natasha , Asensio Maria , Gupta Nadi K
Published: July 2013

We describe the case of a 27-year-old woman with a three-month history of persistent green vaginal discharge following vaginal delivery of her first child. Group C β-haemolytic streptococcus was ultimately isolated, which appears to be an uncommon cause of this clinical presentation.
A Japanese pediatric patient with coexisting systemic lupus erythematosus and familial Mediterranean fever
Authors: Inamo Y , Hayashi R , Saito K , Hasegawa M , Nakamura A , Hashimoto K , Fuchigami T , Nishikomori R
Published: July 2013

This case report describes a Japanese girl with systemic lupus erythematosus who had recurrent fevers and erythema nodosum. She was later found to carry the complex allele E148Q/R202Q/P369S/R408Q of MEFV, the gene responsible for familial Mediterranean fever.
An Ethnographic Study of Disciplinary and Pedagogic Practices in a Primary Class
Authors: Iyer Suvasini
Published: July 2013

The article presents an ethnographic study conducted in a class in a government-run primary school in Delhi.

It was found that a chief concern in the school was that of disciplining children. In the observed class, this took the shape of controlling children’s bodies and motor movements. It is argued that through disciplining, teachers were striving to create docile and obedient bodies. In addition, disciplining was also aimed at reforming children.

The pedagogic practices were also observed to further the agenda of reforming children. Learning was construed as no more than a set of motor skills. Learning was seen as a passive, silent and individual activity. It is argued that the pedagogic practices employed by the teachers served to cast a normalising gaze on the children, and to differentiate between them along a moral–scholastic dimension. When seen through a Foucauldian lens, it appeared that the purpose of pedagogic activity in the observed class was to maintain surveillance.

It was found that while children actively negotiated with the prevailing culture, they nevertheless remained bound by the dominant norms.
Secondary School Choral Conductors’ Self-Reported Beliefs and Behaviors Related to Fundamental Choral Elements and Rehearsal Approaches
Authors: Ganschow Cory M.
Published: July 2013

Secondary school choral conductors from the United States were invited to complete a 10-minute electronic survey about their choral rehearsal priorities and approaches. Respondents ( N = 239) reported (a) rehearsal priorities on fundamental choral elements (balance/blend, diction, dynamics, intonation, interpretation/musicianship, rhythm, technique, and tone quality), (b) rehearsal approaches (micro–macro/macro–micro), and (c) primary professional development influences. Choral elements most frequently cited as rehearsal priorities were intonation and tone quality. Differences were discovered in rehearsal approaches as a function of teaching experience with those who taught for 10 or more years reporting a macro–micro approach. Observing other conductors/ensembles at conferences and continuing education were primary influences cited. Though there were no statistically significant differences ( p > .05) between high school and middle school choral directors’ choices of rehearsal priorities or approaches, notable discrepancies were found. Implications for the preparation of choral educators are discussed, and recommendations for future research are presented.
Impact of Job Burnout on Satisfaction and Turnover Intention
Authors: Lu Allan Cheng Chieh , Gursoy Dogan
Published: July 2013

This study examines possible moderating effects of generational differences (Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials) on the relationship between job burnout (emotional exhaustion, cynicism, reduced professional efficacy) and employee satisfaction and turnover intention, as well as its moderating effects on the relationship between employee satisfaction and turnover intention using data collected from employees of a midscale chain hotel. Findings indicate that generational differences between Baby Boomers and Millennials have significant moderating effects on the relationship between emotional exhaustion and job satisfaction and turnover intention, and on the relationship between job satisfaction and turnover intention.
Organizational Innovativeness and its Results
Authors: Binder Petra , Mair Michael , Stummer Katharina , Kessler Alexander
Published: July 2013

In the face of increasingly intense competition and saturated markets, competitive advantages through innovation (also) in tourism are continuously gaining importance for business survival and growth. Using a qualitative approach to investigate 12 small and medium enterprises in the Viennese hotel sector, this study focuses on identifying the extent to which different forms of organizational innovativeness lead to different innovation results. On the basis of the analysis, four types of innovation results (systematic renewal, systematic improvement, adaptation, and startups) can be identified. These innovation results can be traced back to different configurations of organizational innovativeness. The study shows that systematic renewal is promoted by a combination of all dimensions of organizational innovativeness (willingness to innovate, ability to innovate, and possibility of innovation).
Creating ‘buddy partnerships’ with 5- and 11-year old-boys: a methodological approach to conducting participatory research with young children
Authors: Levy Rachael , Thompson Philippa
Published: July 2013

Building on literature concerning participatory research, this article explores the use of ‘buddy partnership’ as a technique to access the voices of young children. In this study, 5- to 6-year-old boys were paired with 11- to 12-year-old boys, and each dyad was asked to contribute towards the creation of an information DVD that would help teachers and parents understand the factors that influenced children’s engagement with reading. This article reflects on how this research technique addressed some of the methodological concerns of researchers conducting participatory research with young children. In particular, it addresses issues related to the ‘role of the researcher’ and the impact of presence of an adult researcher when researching young children’s views. This study revealed that the use of a buddy partnership with older children was a highly effective method in eliciting the voices of these young children. This article argues that the success of this research technique can be attributed to the cultivation of a strong and unique relationship that was built between the children throughout the duration of the project. It is concluded that the older children played a crucial role in the research, as their empathetic and playful approach meant that they communicated with the younger children in a context that was defined by the existence of ‘shared understanding’, which would not have been possible within an child–adult research relationship.
Neurohospitalists Enhance Resident Perception of the Educational and Clinical Value of a Night Float Rotation
Authors: Greene James G.
Published: July 2013

Background and Purpose:

Neurology residency training programs have been profoundly impacted by recent changes in resident duty hours, workloads, and supervisory requirements. In response, many programs have adopted a night float coverage system to minimize the requirements for overnight call. The majority involves residents working a block of night shifts in what is typically a service-oriented rotation. Recently, concerns have arisen regarding the impact of this design on resident education and patient care. We have developed a novel on-site nighttime neurohospitalist model for the explicit purpose of steepening the initial learning curve for neurology residents in an effort to rapidly improve their neurological skills and, in conjunction, overnight patient care. We surveyed residents after the initiation of this system to assess their perception of the impact of direct overnight supervision on education and patient care.

Methods:

As part of ongoing quality improvement efforts, surveys were administered to neurology house staff at a tertiary academic medical center after they had completed service on the night float rotation both with and without an attending in the hospital using a retrospective pre/postdesign.

Results:

There was a robust positive impact on resident’s perception of overall quality, educational value, and clinical quality on the night float rotation with an attending on-site. Despite an overall perception that their autonomy was maintained, residents believed barriers to contact the attending were lower, and attending interaction during critical decision making was more frequent.

Conclusions:

Direct overnight supervision by a neurohospitalist enhances the educational value and care quality on overnight resident rotations.
Gastrointestinal bacterial overgrowth: pathogenesis and clinical significance
Authors: Sachdev Amit H. , Pimentel Mark
Published: July 2013

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is defined as the presence of an abnormally high number of coliform bacteria in the small bowel. It is associated with a broad range of predisposing small intestinal motility disorders and with surgical procedures that result in bowel stasis. The most common symptoms associated with SIBO include diarrhea, flatulence, abdominal pain and bloating. Quantitative culture of small bowel contents and a variety of indirect tests have been used over the years in an attempt to facilitate the diagnosis of SIBO. The indirect tests include breath tests and biochemical tests based on bacterial metabolism of a variety of substrates. Unfortunately, there is no single valid test for SIBO, and the accuracy of all current tests remains limited due to the failure of culture to be a gold standard and the lack of standardization of the normal bowel flora in the small intestine. Currently, the ideal approach to treat SIBO is to treat the underlying disease, eradicate overgrowth, and address nutritional deficiencies that may be associated with the development of SIBO.
Mentally Ill Offenders Involved With the U.S. Criminal Justice System
Authors: Sarteschi Christine M.
Published: July 2013

This paper sought to synthesize what is currently known about mentally ill offenders in American jails and prisons based upon the most recent government and congressional reports and relevant literature review. The primary goal is to provide a detailed picture of the status of mentally ill offenders—including prevalence, basic demographic information, bio-psycho-social status, mental health, and family histories—and also to identify the problems, conditions, and obstacles faced while under the jurisdiction of the criminal justice system. Mentally ill offenders are constitutionally guaranteed basic mental health treatment. A review of the literature indicates that this constitutional guarantee is not being adequately fulfilled. Implications and suggestions for change are discussed.
Exercise, Weather, Safety, and Public Attitudes
Authors: Mullan Elaine
Published: July 2013

Levels of cycling for transport (CFT) in Ireland are very low—about 2% nationally—and the government has set a target of 10% of all trips to work by bicycle by 2020. The purpose of this study was to explore the complexities of leisure/sport cyclists’ views about CFT. Sixteen leisure/sport cyclists (four women and 12 men; about half cycled for transport) were interviewed about the factors that influenced their decision to cycle somewhere instead of driving and the role of the weather in that decision, whether they considered CFT to be real “exercise,” and the meaning of “safety.” The findings were that the decision to cycle for transport was dominated by practical concerns, and weather concerns added to this organizational burden. For city-dwellers, the key deciding factor was cycling’s efficiency and reliability. Safety concerns centered around negative interactions with drivers and there was a common belief that the general public had very negative attitudes to cycling and cyclists. Finally, most thought that CFT was not “proper” exercise as it would be of insufficient intensity or duration and would take from the time available to do this. These findings show that to promote CFT among leisure/sport cyclists, government and local authorities must improve and highlight the efficiency, safety, and legitimacy of cycling as a transport option. Without this, promotional activities that just focus on the exercise, health, and enjoyment potential of CFT will have little effect.
JAK2V617F expression in mice amplifies early hematopoietic cells and gives them a competitive advantage that is hampered by IFNα
Authors: Hasan Salma , Lacout Catherine , Marty Caroline , Cuingnet Marie , Solary Eric , Vainchenker William , Villeval Jean-Luc
Published: July 2013

Key Points

JAK2V617F amplifies in mouse early hematopoietic cells, giving them a proliferative advantage through high cell cycling and low apoptosis. IFNα prevented myeloproliferative neoplasm development by specifically inhibiting JAK2V617F cells at an early differentiation stage.
CELDA - an ontology for the comprehensive representation of cells in complex systems
Authors: Seltmann Stefanie , Stachelscheid Harald , Damaschun Alexander , Jansen Ludger , Lekschas Fritz , Fontaine Jean-Fred , Nguyen-Dobinsky Throng Nghia , Leser Ulf , Kurtz Andreas
Published: July 2013

Background

The need for detailed description and modeling of cells drives the continuous generation of large and diverse datasets. Unfortunately, there exists no systematic and comprehensive way to organize these datasets and their information. CELDA (Cell: Expression, Localization, Development, Anatomy) is a novel ontology for the association of primary experimental data and derived knowledge to various types of cells of organisms.

Results

CELDA is a structure that can help to categorize cell types based on species, anatomical localization, subcellular structures, developmental stages and origin. It targets cells in vitro as well as in vivo. Instead of developing a novel ontology from scratch, we carefully designed CELDA in such a way that existing ontologies were integrated as much as possible, and only minimal extensions were performed to cover those classes and areas not present in any existing model. Currently, ten existing ontologies and models are linked to CELDA through the top-level ontology BioTop. Together with 15.439 newly created classes, CELDA contains more than 196.000 classes and 233.670 relationship axioms. CELDA is primarily used as a representational framework for modeling, analyzing and comparing cells within and across species in CellFinder, a web based data repository on cells (http://cellfinder.org).

Conclusions

CELDA can semantically link diverse types of information about cell types. It has been integrated within the research platform CellFinder, where it exemplarily relates cell types from liver and kidney during development on the one hand and anatomical locations in humans on the other, integrating information on all spatial and temporal stages. CELDA is available from the CellFinder website: http://cellfinder.org/about/ontology.
Anesthesia management of patients undergoing hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion with melphalan for melanoma treatment: an analysis of 17 cases
Authors: Ruschulte Heiner , Shi Serena , Tseng William W , Kolodzie Kerstin , Crawford Philip C , Schneider Darren B , Kashani-Sabet Mohammed , Minor David , Apfel Christian , Leong Stanley PL
Published: July 2013

Background

Hyperthermic isolated limb perfusion (HILP) is used for patients with intractable or extensive in-transit metastatic melanoma of the limb to deliver high concentrations of cytotoxic agents to the affected limb and offers a treatment option in a disease stage with a poor prognosis when no treatment is given.

Methods

In a retrospective chart review of 17 cases, we studied the anesthetic and hemodynamic changes during HILP and its management.

Results

HILP was well tolerated except in one case that is described herein. We present summary data of all cases undergoing upper and lower limb perfusion, discuss our current clinical practice of preoperative, perioperative and intraoperative patient care including the management of HILP circuit.

Conclusion

HILP is a challenging procedure, and requires a team effort including the surgical team, anesthesia care providers, perfusionists and nurses. Intraoperatively, invasive hemodynamic and metabolic monitoring is indispensable to manage significant hemodynamic and metabolic changes due to fluid shifts and release of cytokines.
Association of HbA1c and cardiovascular and renal disease in an adult Mediterranean population
Authors: Hernandez Domingo , Espejo-Gil Ana , Bernal-Lopez M Rosa , Mancera-Romero Jose , Baca-Osorio Antonio J , Tinahones Francisco J , Armas-Padron Ana M , Ruiz-Esteban Pedro , Torres Armando , Gomez-Huelgas Ricardo
Published: July 2013

Background

Increasing evidence suggests a mechanistic link between the glycemic environment and renal and cardiovascular events, even below the threshold for diabetes. We aimed to assess the association between HbA1c and chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods

A cross-sectional study involving a random representative sample of 2270 adults from southern Spain (Malaga) was undertaken. We measured HbA1c, serum creatinine and albuminuria in fasting blood and urine samples.

Results

Individuals without diabetes in the upper HbA1c tertile had an unfavorable cardiovascular and renal profile and shared certain clinical characteristics with the patients with diabetes. Overall, a higher HbA1c concentration was strongly associated with CKD or CVD after adjustment for traditional risk factors. The patients with known diabetes had a 2-fold higher odds of CKD or CVD. However, when both parameters were introduced in the same model, the HbA1c concentration was only significantly associated with clinical endpoints (OR: 1.4, 95% CI, 1.1-1.6, P = 0.002). An increase in HbA1c of one percentage point was associated with a 30% to 40% increase in the rate of CKD or CVD. This relationship was apparent in persons with and without known diabetes. ROC curves illustrated that a HbA1c of 37 mmol/mol (5.5%) was the optimal value in terms of sensitivity and specificity for predicting endpoints in this population.

Conclusion

HbA1c levels were associated with a higher prevalence of CKD and CVD cross-sectionally, regardless of diabetes status. These data support the value of HbA1c as a marker of cardiovascular and renal disease in the general population.
Multifaceted responses to two major parasites in the honey bee (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Wagoner Kaira M , Boncristiani Humberto F , Rueppell Olav
Published: July 2013

The recent declines in managed honey bee populations are of scientific, ecological and economic concern, and are partially attributed to honey bee parasites and related disease. McDonnell et al. investigate behavioral, chemical and neurogenomic effects of parasitization by the ectoparasite Varroa destructor and the endoparasite Nosema ceranae. The study reveals important links between underlying mechanisms of immunity and parasitization in social insects by demonstrating that chemical signals and neurogenomic states are significantly different between parasitized and non-parasitized honey bees, and that neurogenomic states are partially conserved between bees infected with distinct parasites. However the study does not reveal whether differences measured are primarily the result of adaptive host responses or of manipulation of the honey bee host by the parasites and/or confounding viral loads of parasitized individuals. Questions answered and raised by McDonnell et al. will lead to an improved understanding of honey bee health and, more generally, host-parasite interactions.
Oral health of visually impaired schoolchildren in Khartoum State, Sudan
Authors: Tagelsir Azza , Khogli Ahmed Eltigani , Nurelhuda Nazik Mostafa
Published: July 2013

Background

Although oral health care is a vital component of overall health, it remains one of the greatest unattended needs among the disabled. The aim of this study was to assess the oral health status and oral health-related quality of life (Child-OIDP in 11-13-year-old) of the visually challenged school attendants in Khartoum State, the Sudan.

Methods

A school-based survey was conducted in Al-Nour institute [boys (66.3%), boarders (35.9%), and children with partial visual impairment (PVI) (44.6%)]. Two calibrated dentists examined the participants (n=79) using DMFT/dmft, Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S), dental care index, and traumatic dental injuries (TDI) index. Oral health related quality of life (C-OIDP) was administered to 82 schoolchildren.

Results

Caries experience was 46.8%. Mean DMFT (age≥12, n=33) was 0.4 ± 0.7 (SiC 1.6), mean dmft (age<12, n=46) was 1.9 ±2.8 (SiC 3.4), mean OHIS 1.3 ± 0.9. Care Index was zero. One fifth of the children suffered TDI (19%). Almost one third (29%) of the 11–13 year old children reported an oral impact on their daily performances. A quarter of the schoolchildren (25.3%) required an urgent treatment need. Analysis showed that children with partial visual impairment (PVI) were 6.3 times (adjusted) more likely to be diagnosed with caries compared to children with complete visual impairment (CVI), and children with caries experience were 1.3 times (unadjusted) more likely to report an oral health related impact on quality of life.

Conclusions

Visually impaired schoolchildren are burdened with oral health problems, especially caries. Furthermore, the 11-13 year olds' burden with caries showed a significant impact on their quality of life.
Comparison of legislation, regulations and national health strategies for palliative care in seven European countries (Results from the Europall Research Group): a descriptive study
Authors: Beek Karen Van , Woitha Kathrin , Ahmed Nisar , Menten Johan , Jaspers Birgit , Engels Yvonne , Ahmedzai Sam H , Vissers Kris , Hasselaar Jeroen
Published: July 2013

Background

According to EU policy, anyone in need of palliative care should be able to have access to it. It is therefore important to investigate which palliative care topics are subject to legislation and regulations in Europe and how these are implemented in (national) health care plans. This paper aims to deliver a structured overview of the legislation, existing regulations and the different health care policies regarding palliative care in seven European countries.

Methods

In 2008 an inventory of the organisation of palliative care was developed by the researchers of the Europall project. Included were two open questions about legislation, regulations, and health policy in palliative care. This questionnaire was completed using palliative care experts selected from Belgium, England, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland and Spain. Additionally, (grey) literature on palliative care health policy and regulations from the participating countries was collected to complete the inventory. Comparative analysis of country specific information was performed afterwards.

Results

In all countries palliative care regulations and policies existed (either in laws, royal decrees, or national policies). An explicit right to palliative care was mentioned in the Belgium, French and German law. In addition, access to palliative care was mentioned by all countries, varying from explicit regulations to policy intentions in national plans. Also, all countries had a national policy on palliative care, although sometimes mainly related to national cancer plans. Differences existed in policy regarding palliative care leave, advance directives, national funding, palliative care training, research, opioids and the role of volunteers.

Conclusions

Although all included European countries have policies on palliative care, countries largely differ in the presence of legislation and regulations on palliative care as well as the included topics. European healthcare policy recommendations should support palliative care access across Europe.
Association between serum adipocyte fatty-acid binding protein concentrations, left ventricular function and myocardial perfusion abnormalities in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Huang Chi-Lun , Wu Yen-Wen , Wu Chih-Cheng , Lin Lin , Wu Yu-Chin , Hsu Pei-Ying , Jong Yuh-Shiun , Yang Wei-Shiung
Published: July 2013

Background

Adipokines, including adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (A-FABP), have been demonstrated to be involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In the present study, we investigated the association of circulating A-FABP level with severity of myocardial perfusion abnormalities analyzed by Tl-201 dipyridamole single-photon emission computed tomography.

Methods

A total of 170 patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) from cardiovascular clinics were enrolled in the study. Serum A-FABP levels, echocardiography, and stress myocardial perfusion imaging results were analyzed.

Results

Compared with the patients with mild CAD (summed stress score [SSS] ≤ 8), those with moderate to severe CAD (SSS > 8) had significantly higher A-FABP concentrations. However, the difference was attenuated in the subgroup of patients with heart failure. In the correlation analyses, A-FABP level was correlated with age, body mass index, waist circumference, levels of creatinine, fasting glucose, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, adiponectin, and several echocardiographic parameters, including left ventricular ejection fraction. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the A-FABP level was not only associated with higher SSS (odds ratio, 1.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.69; P = 0.048), but also an independent risk factor for heart failure (odds ratio 2.71, 95% CI, 1.23–5.94; P = 0.013).

Conclusions

Serum A-FABP levels not only were associated with myocardial perfusion abnormalities and left ventricular function, but also predicted the presence of heart failure in our patients with CAD.
Lyn, a Src family kinase, regulates activation of epidermal growth factor receptors in lung adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: Sutton Parnetta , Borgia Jeffrey A , Bonomi Philip , Plate Janet MD
Published: July 2013

Background

Activation of receptors for growth factors on lung epithelial cells is essential for transformation into tumor cells, supporting their viability and proliferation. In most lung cancer patients, EGFR is constitutively activated without evidence of mutation. Defining mechanisms for constitutive activation of EGFR could elucidate additional targets for therapy of lung cancers.

Methods

The approach was to identify lung cancer cell lines with constitutively activated EGFR and use systematic selection of inhibitors to evaluate their effects on specific EGFR phosphorylations and downstream signaling pathways. Interactions between receptors, kinases, and scaffolding proteins were investigated by co-immunoprecipitation plus Western blotting.

Results

The results revealed a dependence on Src family of tyrosine kinases for downstream signaling and cell growth. Lyn, a Src family kinase functional in normal and malignant B-lymphocytes, was a defining signal transducer required for EGFR signaling in Calu3 cell line. Src family kinase activation in turn, was dependent on PKCßII. Lyn and PKC exist in membrane complexes of RACK1 and in association with EGFR which pairs with other receptor partners. Silencing of Lyn expression with interfering siRNA decreased EGFR activation and cell viability.

Conclusions

The importance of Src family kinases and PKCßII in the initiation of the EGFR signaling pathway in lung tumor cells was demonstrated. We conclude that phosphorylation of EGFR is mediated through PKCßII regulation of Lyn activation, and occurs in association with RACK1 and Cbp/PAG proteins. We suggest that protein complexes in cell membranes, including lipid rafts, may serve as novel targets for combination therapies with EGFR and Src Family Kinase inhibitors in lung cancer.
Unilateral or bilateral vagotomy induces ovulation in both ovaries of rats with polycystic ovarian syndrome
Authors: Linares Rosa , Hernández Denisse , Morán Carolina , Chavira Roberto , Cárdenas Mario , Domínguez Roberto , Morales-Ledesma Leticia
Published: July 2013

Background

Injecting estradiol valerate (EV) to pre-pubertal or adult female rat results in effects similar to those observed in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). One of the mechanisms involved in PCOS development is the hyperactivity of the sympathetic nervous system. In EV-induced PCOS rats, the unilateral sectioning of the superior ovarian nerve (SON) restores ovulation of the innervated ovary. This suggests that, in addition to the sympathetic innervation, other neural mechanisms are involved in the development/maintenance of PCOS. The aims of present study were analyze if the vagus nerve is one of the neural pathways participating in PCOS development.

Methods

Ten-day old rats were injected with EV dissolved in corn oil. At 24-days of age sham-surgery, unilateral, or bilateral sectioning of the vagus nerve (vagotomy) was performed on these rats. The animals were sacrificed at 90–92 days of age, when they presented vaginal estrous preceded by a pro-estrus smear.

Results

In EV-induced PCOS rats, unilateral or bilateral vagotomy restored ovulation in both ovaries. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in PCOS rats with unilateral or bilateral vagotomy were lower than in control rats.

Conclusions

This result suggests that in EV-induced PCOS rats the vagus nerve is a neural pathway participating in maintaining PCOS. The vagus nerve innervates the ovaries directly and indirectly through its synapsis in the celiac-superior-mesenteric ganglion, where the somas of neurons originating in the SON are located. Then, it is possible that vagotomy effects in EV-induced PCOS rats may be explained as a lack of communication between the central nervous system and the ovaries.
Challenges for nursing education in Angola: the perception of nurse leaders affiliated with professional education institutions
Authors: Marchi-Alves Leila Maria , Ventura Carla A Arena , Trevizan Maria Auxiliadora , Mazzo Alessandra , de Godoy Simone , Mendes Isabel Amélia Costa
Published: July 2013

Background

Angola is one of the African countries with the highest morbidity and mortality rates and a devastating lack of human resources for health, including nursing. The World Health Organization stimulates and takes technical cooperation initiatives for human resource education and training in health and education, with a view to the development of countries in the region. The aim in this study was to identify how nurses affiliated with nursing education institutions perceive the challenges nursing education is facing in Angola.

Methods

After consulting the National Directory of Human Resources in Angola, the nurse leaders affiliated with professional nursing education institutions in Angola were invited to participate in the study by email. Data were collected in February 2009 through the focus group technique. The group of participants was focused on the central question: what are the challenges faced for nursing education in your country? To register and understand the information, besides the use of a recorder, the reporters elaborated an interpretative report. Data were coded using content analysis.

Results

Fourteen nurses participated in the meeting, most of whom were affiliated with technical nursing education institutions. It was verified that the nurse leaders at technical and higher nursing education institutions in Angola face many challenges, mainly related to the lack of infrastructure, absence of trained human resources, bureaucratic problems to regularize the schools and lack of material resources. On the opposite, the solutions they present are predominantly centered on the valuation of nursing professionals, which implies cultural and attitude changes.

Conclusions

Public health education policies need to be established in Angola, including action guidelines that permit effective nursing activities. Professional education institutions need further regularizations and nurses need to be acknowledged as key elements for the qualitative enhancement of health services in the country.
MiRNA-329 targeting E2F1 inhibits cell proliferation in glioma cells
Authors: Xiao Bingxiang , Tan Li , He Benfu , Liu Zhiliang , Xu Ruxiang
Published: July 2013

Background

MicroRNAs have recently emerged as key regulators of cancers, miR-329 located on 14q32.31 is one of down-regulated miRNAs in glioma, but the function and molecular mechanisms of miR-329 in determining the malignant phenotype of human glioma are elusive. This study therefore was conducted to investigate the role of miR-329 in biological behaviors of human glioma LN18 and T98G cell lines and its molecular mechanisms.

Methods

Nine patients with GBM were analyzed for the expression of miR-329 by quantitative RT–PCR. MiR-329 overexpression was established by transfecting miR-329 precursor into LN18 and T98G cells, and its effects on cell proliferation were studied using MTT assay, anchorage-independent growth ability assay, colony formation assays, Bromodeoxyuridine labeling and immunofluorescence.

The effects of miR-329 on cell cycle were studied by flow cytometry. The target of miR-329 was determined by luciferase assays. The regulation of miR-329 on Akt pathway was determined by western blot.

Results

The E2F1 was identified as the target of miR-329. Overexpression of miR-329 blocked G1/S transition in LN18 and T98G cell lines, dramatically suppressed cell proliferation and the ability of colony formation. MiR-329 significantly decreased the phosphorylation levels of intracellular kinases Akt and expression of cyclin D1, but the expression of p21 was upregulated, cell growth was suppressed by inhibiting E2F1-mediated Akt pathway.

Conclusions

MiR-329 may inhibit cell proliferation in human glioma cells through regulating E2F1-mediated suppression of Akt pathway.
Juvenile hormone regulation of Drosophila aging
Authors: Yamamoto Rochele , Bai Hua , Dolezal Adam G , Amdam Gro , Tatar Marc
Published: July 2013

Background

Juvenile hormone (JH) has been demonstrated to control adult lifespan in a number of non-model insects where surgical removal of the corpora allata eliminates the hormone’s source. In contrast, little is known about how juvenile hormone affects adult Drosophila melanogaster. Previous work suggests that insulin signaling may modulate Drosophila aging in part through its impact on juvenile hormone titer, but no data yet address whether reduction of juvenile hormone is sufficient to control Drosophila life span. Here we adapt a genetic approach to knock out the corpora allata in adult Drosophila melanogaster and characterize adult life history phenotypes produced by reduction of juvenile hormone. With this system we test potential explanations for how juvenile hormone modulates aging.

Results

A tissue specific driver inducing an inhibitor of a protein phosphatase was used to ablate the corpora allata while permitting normal development of adult flies. Corpora allata knockout adults had greatly reduced fecundity, inhibited oogenesis, impaired adult fat body development and extended lifespan. Treating these adults with the juvenile hormone analog methoprene restored all traits toward wildtype. Knockout females remained relatively long-lived even when crossed into a genotype that blocked all egg production. Dietary restriction further extended the lifespan of knockout females. In an analysis of expression profiles of knockout females in fertile and sterile backgrounds, about 100 genes changed in response to loss of juvenile hormone independent of reproductive state.

Conclusions

Reduced juvenile hormone alone is sufficient to extend the lifespan of Drosophila melanogaster. Reduced juvenile hormone limits reproduction by inhibiting the production of yolked eggs, and this may arise because juvenile hormone is required for the post-eclosion development of the vitellogenin-producing adult fat body. Our data do not support a mechanism for juvenile hormone control of longevity simply based on reducing the physiological costs of egg production. Nor does the longevity benefit appear to function through mechanisms by which dietary restriction extends longevity. We identify transcripts that change in response to juvenile hormone independent of reproductive state and suggest these represent somatically expressed genes that could modulate how juvenile hormone controls persistence and longevity.
Diverse activation of microglia by chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 overexpression in brain
Authors: Selenica Maj-Linda B , Alvarez Jennifer A , Nash Kevin R , Lee Daniel C , Cao Chuanhai , Lin Xiaoyang , Reid Patrick , Mouton Peter R , Morgan Dave , Gordon Marcia N
Published: July 2013

Background

The chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) is a monocyte chemoattractant protein that mediates macrophage recruitment and migration during peripheral and central nervous system (CNS) inflammation.

Methods

To determine the impact of CCL2 in inflammationin vivoand to elucidate the CCL2-induced polarization of activated brain microglia, we delivered CCL2 into the brains of wild-type mice via recombinant adeno-associated virus serotype 9 (rAAV-9) driven by the chicken β-actin promoter. We measured microglial activation using histological and chemical measurement and recruitment of monocytes using histology and flow cytometry.

Results

The overexpression of CCL2 in the CNS induced significant activation of brain resident microglia. CD45 and major histocompatibility complex class II immunoreactivity significantly increased at the sites of CCL2 administration. Histological characterization of the microglial phenotype revealed the elevation of “classically activated” microglial markers, such as calgranulin B and IL-1β, as well as markers associated with “alternative activation” of microglia, including YM1 and arginase 1. The protein expression profile in the hippocampus demonstrated markedly increased levels of IL-6, GM-CSF and eotaxin (CCL-11) in response to CCL2, but no changes in the levels of other cytokines, including TNF-α and IFN-γ. Moreover, real-time PCR analysis confirmed increases in mRNA levels of gene transcripts associated with neuroinflammation following CCL2 overexpression. Finally, we investigated the chemotactic properties of CCL2in vivoby performing adoptive transfer of bone marrow–derived cells (BMDCs) isolated from donor mice that ubiquitously expressed green fluorescent protein. Flow cytometry and histological analyses indicated that BMDCs extravasated into brain parenchyma and colabeled with microglial markers.

Conclusion

Taken together, our results suggest that CCL2 strongly activates resident microglia in the brain. Both pro- and anti-inflammatory activation of microglia were prominent, with no bias toward the M1 or M2 phenotype in the activated cells. As expected, CCL2 overexpression actively recruited circulating monocytes into the CNS. Thus, CCL2 expression in mouse brain induces microglial activation and represents an efficient method for recruitment of peripheral macrophages.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Histopathological and clinical evaluation of Kombucha tea and Nitrofurazone on cutaneous full-thickness wounds healing in rats: an experimental study
Authors: Barati Fardin , Javanbakht Javad , Adib-Hashemi Farajollah , Hosseini Ehsan , Safaeie Reyhaneh , Rajabian Mojtaba , Razmjoo Mostafa , Sedaghat Reza , Aghamohammad Hassan Mehdi
Published: July 2013

Background

Kombucha, a fermented tea (KT) is claimed to possess many beneficial properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical and histopathological alterations of Kombucha tea and Nitrofurazone on cutaneous full-thickness wounds healing in rat.

Methods

In present study 24 Wister -albino rats weighing 150–200 g were selected and divided to two treatment groups as Nitrofurazone ointment (0.2%) and Kombucha tea. Subsequently, the anesthesia was exerted by Ketamin hydrochloride 10% (40 mg/kg) and Xylasine (2 mg/kg) through intra muscular (IM) route. Furthermore, upon preparation of dorsal region of the animal for surgery, a piece of full-thickness skin removed (2 × 2 cm). In order to comparing wounds healing clinically and histologically, once every four days from the commencement, the wounds were photographed and the healed surface was measured by Scion image software.

Result

The clinical findings indicated that the Kombucha fungus resulted in precipitating healing than Nitrofurazone; however, it was not significant (p > 0.05). In order to pathological comparing of wound healing process, several wound biopsies were taken on 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20th days. Additionally, the histopathological results demonstrated that there was inflammation in Nitrofurazone group through twelveth day, somehow the epithelium was formed and abundant vessels were visible. Although on 16th day and the previous days the healing condition of Kombucha fungus was considered as minimal rate, revealing it is similar to Nitrofurazone group on 20th day.

Conclusions

To wrap up. These observations suggest that the Kombucha fungus healing quality was rapid from 12th day to the end of the research, whereas no significant difference was observed.

Virtual slide

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1107407136102196