bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Daily Physical Activity Patterns of Children with Delayed Eating Behaviors
Authors: Gallant Annette R. , Mathieu Marie-Eve , Lundgren Jennifer D. , Allison Kelly , Tremblay Angelo , O’Loughlin Jennifer , Drapeau Vicky
Published: October 2013

Night eating syndrome (NES) is a delayed pattern of energy intake. It is unknown if symptoms associated with this syndrome are accompanied by a delayed pattern of physical activity. This study examines the relationship between physical activity patterns and delayed eating behaviors in children. Children from the QUALITY cohort ( n = 269, 45% female, aged 8-11 y) completed the Night Eating Questionnaire (NEQ), which measures NES symptoms on a continuous scale and identifies single NES symptoms. Daily accelerometer data were transformed into mean counts per wear-time minute for each hour of the day. Children with high NEQ scores had higher levels of daily ( p < 0.001) and evening physical activity ( p = 0.05) and reached 75% of their total daily physical activity 20 minutes later than children with low NEQ scores ( p < 0.05). Excessive evening snacking and a strong urge to eat in the evening or at night were the symptoms most related to these physical activity patterns. Children with delayed eating behaviors had higher levels of physical activity in the late morning and evening and a delayed physical activity pattern compared to children with no or fewer symptoms. Future research is needed to determine if physical activity plays a role in the onset or maintenance of night eating.
Exposure to Shift Work as a Risk Factor for Diabetes
Authors: Monk Timothy H. , Buysse Daniel J.
Published: October 2013

Using telephone survey data from 1111 retired older adults (≥65 years; 634 male, 477 female), we tested the hypothesis that exposure to shift work might result in increased self-reported diabetes. Five shift work exposure bins were considered: 0 years, 1-7 years, 8-14 years, 15-20 years, and >20 years. Shift work exposed groups showed an increased proportion of self-reported diabetes (χ2 = 22.32, p < 0.001), with odds ratios (ORs) of about 2 when compared to the 0-year group. The effect remained significant after adjusting for gender and body mass index (BMI) (OR ≥ 1.4; χ2 = 10.78, p < 0.05). There was a significant shift work exposure effect on BMI (χ2 = 80.70, p < 0.001) but no significant gender effect (χ2 = 0.37, p > 0.50).
Impact of Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitor Treatment on the Rates of Sexually Transmitted Diseases in a Veterans Affairs Medical Center Patient Population
Authors: Corbo Jason M. , Brown Jamie N. , Bryan William E. , Townsend Mary L.
Published: October 2013

Objective:

The objective of this study was to investigate whether the rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are higher in a veteran population prescribed phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors for erectile dysfunction compared to individuals not prescribed these medications.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study included male veterans who filled at least 1 prescription for a PDE5 inhibitor at a Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2009. A comparator cohort of male veterans was matched for age and marital status.

Results:

A total of 10 154 subjects were evaluated. The number of unique subjects with confirmed STDs within the study period was not significantly different between the PDE5 inhibitor cohort and the comparator cohort (n = 8 vs 10, P = .638) nor was there a significant difference in the total number of STDs acquired (n = 8 vs 13, P = .267). Characteristics of subjects who contracted an STD included younger age, African American race, and single marital status.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated that the use of a PDE5 inhibitor in this VAMC patient population was not associated with an increase in the incidence of STDs. Individuals who contracted a new STD tended to be younger, not married, and African American.
Multi-task oriented design of an asymmetric 3T1R type 4-DOF parallel mechanism
Authors: Yi Byung-Ju , Kim Sung Mok , Kwak Hyun Koo , Kim Wheekuk
Published: October 2013

In performing tasks requiring less than 6 degrees-of-freedom (DOF), lower mobility robots having a parallel structure are effective. This work investigates an asymmetric type 4 degrees-of-freedom parallel mechanism having Schönflies motions. This mechanism would be useful for multi-purpose tasks because it incorporates a transmission linkage with appropriate output modules. The mobility analysis, kinematic modelling, and singularity analysis for the mechanism are performed. Optimal design parameters with respect to both the workspace size and kinematic isotropy are identified by employing composite global design index. In addition, to cope with the singularity problem, a new design involving redundant actuation is suggested. And dynamic simulations are conducted to reaffirm its high potential in real manufacturing applications.
Money, Well-Being, and Loss Aversion
Authors: Boyce Christopher J. , Wood Alex M. , Banks James , Clark Andrew E. , Brown Gordon D. A.
Published: October 2013

Higher income is associated with greater well-being, but do income gains and losses affect well-being differently? Loss aversion, whereby losses loom larger than gains, is typically examined in relation to decisions about anticipated outcomes. Here, using subjective-well-being data from Germany ( N = 28,723) and the United Kingdom ( N = 20,570), we found that losses in income have a larger effect on well-being than equivalent income gains and that this effect is not explained by diminishing marginal benefits of income to well-being. Our findings show that loss aversion applies to experienced losses, challenging suggestions that loss aversion is only an affective-forecasting error. By failing to account for loss aversion, longitudinal studies of the relationship between income and well-being may have overestimated the positive effect of income on well-being. Moreover, societal well-being might best be served by small and stable income increases, even if such stability impairs long-term income growth.
Dynamics of oxidative/nitrosative stress in mice with methionine–choline-deficient diet-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Jorgačević B , Mladenović D , Ninković M , Prokić V , Stanković MN , Aleksić V , Cerović I , Vukićević R Ješić , Vučević D , Stanković M , Radosavljević T
Published: October 2013

Insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and proinflammatory cytokines play a key role in pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim of our study was to investigate the dynamics of oxidative/nitrosative stress in methionine–choline-deficient (MCD) diet -induced NAFLD in mice. Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into following groups: group 1: control group on standard diet; group 2: MCD diet for 2, 4, and 6 weeks (MCD2, MCD4, and MCD6, respectively). After treatment, liver and blood samples were taken for histopathology, alanine- and aspartate aminotransferase, acute phase reactants, and oxidative/nitrosative stress parameters. Liver malondialdehyde level was higher in all MCD-fed groups versus control group ( p < 0.01), while nitrites + nitrates level showed a progressive increase. The activity of total superoxide dismutase and its isoenzymes was significantly lower in all MCD-fed groups ( p < 0.01). Although catalase activity was significantly lower in MCD-fed animals at all intervals ( p < 0.01), the lowest activity of this enzyme was evident in MCD4 group. Liver content of glutathione was lower in MCD4 ( p < 0.05) and MCD6 group ( p < 0.01) versus control.Ferritin and C-reactive protein serum concentration were significantly higher only in MCD6 group. Our study suggests that MCD diet induces a progressive rise in nitrosative stress in the liver. Additionally, the most prominent decrease in liver antioxidative capacity is in the fourth week, which implies that application of antioxidants would be most suitable in this period, in order to prevent nonalcoholic steatohepatitis but not the initial NAFLD phase.
Women Weavers in Mizoram: Sustaining Livelihood through Cluster Development
Authors: Ramswamy Rama , Kumar N.V.R. Jyoti
Published: October 2013

The handloom industry continues to play an important role in the Indian economy, providing employment to 27.83 lakh households. Nearly 77 per cent of this workforce comprises women who are located in rural areas. This article is a study of Thenzawl handloom cluster in Mizoram, a remote corner of India’s north-east, which has become a model of entrepreneurship for underprivileged tribal women. The researchers undertook the mapping of Thenzawl handloom cluster and observed that of the 205 micro handloom enterprises operating there interestingly, 98 per cent of the entrepreneurs were women. We highlight the impact of micro handloom enterprises on livelihood in terms of the extent of dependence of entrepreneur households on handloom enterprises, the proportion of small weavers (on the basis of looms owned) and income earned from the enterprises in the cluster. The article also offers suggestions to initiate cluster development activities in the cluster to enable it to sustain their initiative and grow.
Book Review: The Power of Gender and the Gender of Power: Explorations in Early Indian History
Authors: Visvanathan Meera
Published: October 2013

Kumkum Roy, The Power of Gender and the Gender of Power: Explorations in Early Indian History. New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2010, pp. 386. ₹ 850.
Exploring the Role of Agenda-Building Efforts in Media Coverage and Policymaking Activity of Healthcare Reform
Authors: Kiousis Spiro , Park Jung Min , Kim Ji Young , Go Eun
Published: October 2013

This investigation explores the relationships among information subsidies, news media coverage, and policymaking activities regarding healthcare reform during the first year of the Obama presidential administration. Specifically, a comparison of information subsidies (from the president, federal government offices, Congress, and healthcare-related stakeholder groups), news media content, and policymaking activity was completed from March 2009 to December 2009. Significant correlations were found for the salience of issues and stakeholder groups among information subsidies, news media coverage, and policymaking activity. Robust linkages were also found concerning issue attribute salience.
Ejaculation training, seminal alkaline phosphatase and semen preservation through cooling in a milk-based extender in domestic cats
Authors: Valiente Carla , de la Sota Pablo E , Arauz Sandra , Gobello Cristina
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this report is to describe (1) the training of domestic cats in ejaculation into an artificial vagina (AV), (2) alkaline phosphatase (AP) concentrations in whole ejaculates, and (3) the in vitro effect of a skimmed-milk plus egg yolk (SM-Y) extender on feline spermatozoa incubated at 4ºC. Five post-pubertal cats were trained to ejaculate into an AV three times a week for 20 mins in the presence of a teaser queen. Fifty AV-obtained ejaculates were macro- and microscopically assessed, and the AP therein measured by optimized colorimetry. Eighty AV-obtained ejaculates were pooled, diluted in SM-Y extender [80% (v/v) skimmed milk, 20% (v/v) egg yolk, and antibiotics], stored at 4°C and evaluated daily for 6 days. All the animals could be trained to ejaculate, although the interval up to the first AV ejaculation varied from 1.5 to 5.5 months (mean 3.9 months). The final performance at collection ranged from excellent to poor and was inversely related to the training period required in all cases. The mean AP concentration in whole ejaculates was 20,645.6 ± 4405U/l, which was not correlated with the concentration of spermatozoa. Most seminal parameters [(%); total (77 ± 2.3) and progressive (62.7 ± 3.4) motility, live sperm (91.8 ± 1.2), intact plasmalemma (83.5 ± 2.6), normal acrosomes (83.5 ± 2.6), pH (6.6 ± 0.0) and osmolarity (mOsm/l; 321 ± 5.2)], though decreasing during storage in the cold, remained within values compatible with in vivo fertilization for 2 days.
Ribosomal protein S6 mRNA is a biomarker upregulated in multiple sclerosis, downregulated by interferon treatment, and affected by season
Authors: Parnell Grant P , Gatt Prudence N , McKay Fiona C , Schibeci Stephen , Krupa Malgorzata , Powell Joseph E , Visscher Peter M , Montgomery Grant W , Lechner-Scott Jeannette , Broadley Simon , Liddle Christopher , Slee Mark , Vucic Steve , Stewart Graeme J , Booth David R
Published: October 2013

Background:

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system which responds to therapies targeting circulating immune cells.

Objective:

Our aim was to test if the T-cell activation gene expression pattern (TCAGE) we had previously described from whole blood was replicated in an independent cohort.

Methods:

We used RNA-seq to interrogate the whole blood transcriptomes of 72 individuals (40 healthy controls, 32 untreated MS). A cohort of 862 control individuals from the Brisbane Systems Genetics Study (BSGS) was used to assess heritability and seasonal expression. The effect of interferon beta (IFNB) therapy on expression was evaluated.

Results:

The MS/TCAGE association was replicated and rationalized to a single marker, ribosomal protein S6 (RPS6). Expression of RPS6 was higher in MS than controls ( p<0.0004), and lower in winter than summer ( p<4.6E-06). The seasonal pattern correlated with monthly UV light index ( R=0.82, p<0.002), and was also identified in the BSGS cohort ( p<0.0016). Variation in expression of RPS6 was not strongly heritable. RPS6 expression was reduced by IFNB therapy.

Conclusions:

These data support investigation of RPS6 as a potential therapeutic target and candidate biomarker for measuring clinical response to IFNB and other MS therapies, and of MS disease heterogeneity.
Exercising away the blues: can it help multiple sclerosis-related depression?
Authors: Feinstein Anthony , Rector Neil , Motl Robert
Published: October 2013

The present review focuses on exercise as a treatment for depression in multiple sclerosis. While exercise has emerged as a potentially useful treatment in the general psychiatry-depression literature, the findings from a small number of multiple sclerosis-related treatment trials are equivocal. Methodological limitations, including the absence of depression as a primary endpoint, characterize all the studies completed to date. Given that limitations in study design can be rectified, it is time to put exercise to the test once more. Depressed multiple sclerosis patients and those involved in their care are looking for guidance here because the prevailing zeitgeist promotes the benefits of exercise to mood. But first, some clarity is needed.
Exploring the ‘fractionation’ of autism at the cognitive level
Authors: Brunsdon Victoria EA , Happé Francesca
Published: October 2013

Autism spectrum disorders are defined by difficulties across a range of areas: social and communication difficulties and restricted and repetitive behaviours and interests. It has been suggested that this triad of symptoms cannot be explained by a single cause at the genetic, neural or cognitive level. This article reviews the evidence for a ‘fractionable’ autism triad at the cognitive level, highlighting questions for future research.
Reclaiming the city: changing urban meaning in Algiers after 1962
Authors: Grabar Henry S.
Published: October 2013

This essay argues that urban symbolism and architectural inheritance are crucial and undervalued components of post-colonial discourse. Drawing on the evidence of architectural change, as well as newspaper articles, personal histories, fieldwork, and related sociological research, it takes a wide view of changes to the urban environment of central Algiers after 1962. After briefly discussing the role of urbanism in the French ‘civilizing mission,’ the essay aims to analyze two opposing currents in post-colonial urbanism. First, it relays the extent to which the French built environment of Algiers was capable of encouraging patterns of life for its new inhabitants, and the degree to which that power affects memories of colonial urbanism. Second, it examines the antonymous, parallel quest to reclaim that symbolically heavy territory with icons, symbols and representations of Algerian nationalism, particularly through street names, statues, and public art, a process that both revealed the complexities of the state’s nationalism and provoked its contradictions. Despite the FLN’s best efforts, the city as palimpsest persists. The changes to – and consistencies of – the built environment of Algiers after 1962 testify to the under-appreciated importance of the city as an influential legacy of colonialism.
Internal Carotid Artery Occlusion
Authors: Morris-Stiff G. , Teli M. , Khan P. Y. , Ogunbiyi S. O. , Champ C. S. , Hibberd R. , Brown R. , Bailey D. M. , Winter R. K. , Lewis M. H.
Published: October 2013

Objective:

To determine the incidence of recanalization of the occluded internal carotid artery (ICA) and establish its natural history.

Methods:

Patients with duplex-confirmed ICA occlusions were identified, and a subgroup offered repeat scanning. The antemortem condition and cause of death of patients who died were recorded.

Results:

Of 153 patients identified, 77 underwent follow-up at a median of 35 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 14-61).In all, 8 (10.3%) demonstrated recanalization at a median of 53 months (IQR: 35-114). Of 8, 7 underwent carotid endarterectomy with histopathological confirmation of recanalization. Of the 153 patients, 45 (29%) had further neurological events, and 38 (25%) were within the territory of the occluded ICA. In all, 76 patients died, and of the 53 with a confirmed cause of death, 12 (23%) were attributed to a cerebrovascular accident corresponding to the territory of the occluded artery.

Conclusion:

Recanalization of ICA occlusion is common and leads to significant neurological events. Duplex ultrasound follow-up appears mandatory.
Caring school leadership
Authors: van der Vyver Cornelius P , van der Westhuizen Philip C , Meyer L W
Published: October 2013

The research pivoted on the question whether South African school principals fulfilled their caring role towards teachers. The aims of the study were threefold. First, to determine how principals rated their care-giving, secondly to determine whether significant discrepancies existed between principals’ rating of their care-giving and teachers’ experiences thereof and thirdly to identify the determinants of care that contributed the most and the least towards principals’ care-giving and teachers’ ratings thereof. A survey was conducted among a sample of South African teachers and the findings revealed that principals rated their care-giving more positively than teachers did, specifically with regard to certain psychological aspects of care. It is recommended that a strategy should be developed in which the caring role of principals should be addressed. In such a strategy a personal development plan for principals should be included, which addresses specifically the psychological determinants of care.
A critique of the systems approaches in comparative media research: A Central and Eastern European perspective
Authors: Rantanen Terhi
Published: October 2013

This article looks critically at the systems approaches in comparative media studies when applied to studying the relationship between media and politics in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). It introduces a concept of methodological systematization consisting of four different components: (1) the relationship between a political and a media system (methodological politicization); (2) the relationship between democracy and a media system (methodological democratization); (3) the relationship between a nation-state and a media system (methodological nationalism); and (4) the relationship between culture and a media system (methodological structuralism). The article concludes that these system approaches should not be taken as a naturalized starting point for comparative research when studying media and politics in CEE.
Complete Bordetella avium, Bordetella hinzii and Bordetella trematum lipid A structures and genomic sequence analyses of the loci involved in their modifications
Authors: Novikov Alexey , Shah Nita R , AlBitar-Nehme Sami , Basheer Soorej M , Trento Ilaria , Tirsoaga Alina , Moksa Michelle , Hirst Martin , Perry Malcolm B , Hamidi Asmaa El , Fernandez Rachel C , Caroff Martine
Published: October 2013

Endotoxin is recognized as one of the virulence factors of the Bordetella avium bird pathogen, and characterization of its structure and corresponding genomic features are important for an understanding of its role in pathogenicity and for an improved general knowledge of Bordetella spp virulence factors. The structure of the biologically active part of B. avium LPS, lipid A, is described and compared to those of another bird pathogen, opportunistic in humans, Bordetella hinzii, and to that of Bordetella trematum, a human pathogen. Sequence analyses showed that the three strains have homologues of acyl-chain modifying enzymes PagL, PagP and LpxO, of the 1-phosphatase LpxE, in addition to LgmA, LgmB and LgmC, which are required for the glucosamine modification. MALDI mass spectrometry identified a high amount of glucosamine substituting the phosphate groups of B. avium lipid A; this modification was absent from B. hinzii and B. trematum. The acylation patterns of the three lipid As were similar, but they differed from those of Bordetella pertussis and Bordetella parapertussis. They were also found to be close to the lipid A structure of Bordetella bronchiseptica, a mammalian pathogen, only differing from the latter by the degree of hydroxylation of the branched fatty acid.
A conceptual framework for managing modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in Fiji
Authors: Witter Trevor , Poudevigne Melanie , Lambrick Danielle M , Faulkner James , Lucero Adam A , Page Rachel , Perry Lane G , Tarrant Michael A , Stoner Lee
Published: October 2013

Aims:

The current review will look at modifiable lifestyle (physical inactivity, poor nutrition, risky alcohol behavior and cigarette smoking) and cardio-metabolic (obesity, diabetes mellitus, high cholesterol and high blood pressure) cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors among Indigenous-Fijian and Indo-Fijian subgroups. A framework for monitoring and managing these risk factors will be presented.

Methods:

National health surveys were identified where available. Electronic databases identified sources for filling missing data. The most relevant data were identified, organized and synthesized.

Results:

Compared to Indo-Fijians, Indigenous-Fijians have higher rates of obesity (17% vs 11%) and hypertension (21% vs 16%), but lower rates of diabetes mellitus (12% vs 21%) and high cholesterol (33% vs 39%). Indigenous-Fijians report higher rates of prescribed physical activity (25% vs 21%), but poorer recommended vegetable intake (48% vs 56%), greater risky alcohol behavior (17% vs 15%) and a much greater prevalence of cigarette smoking (45% vs 24%). Both Indigenous-Fijians and Indo-Fijians report a low prevalence of recommended fruit intake (17% vs 15%).

Conclusions:

Fiji is progressing through demographic and epidemiological transitions, including a decline in infectious diseases and improved life expectancy. However, in concert with other developing nations, ‘modernization’ is accompanied by increased mortality from non-communicable diseases, with CVD being the most prevalent. This transition has been associated with changes to socio-cultural aspects of Fiji, including poor lifestyle choices that may contribute to a cluster of cardio-metabolic conditions which precede CVD.
High variance in reproductive success generates a false signature of a genetic bottleneck in populations of constant size: a simulation study
Authors: Hoban Sean M , Mezzavilla Massimo , Gaggiotti Oscar E , Benazzo Andrea , van Oosterhout Cock , Bertorelle Giorgio
Published: October 2013

Background

Demographic bottlenecks can severely reduce the genetic variation of a population or a species. Establishing whether low genetic variation is caused by a bottleneck or a constantly low effective number of individuals is important to understand a species’ ecology and evolution, and it has implications for conservation management. Recent studies have evaluated the power of several statistical methods developed to identify bottlenecks. However, the false positive rate, i.e. the rate with which a bottleneck signal is misidentified in demographically stable populations, has received little attention. We analyse this type of error (type I) in forward computer simulations of stable populations having greater than Poisson variance in reproductive success (i.e., variance in family sizes). The assumption of Poisson variance underlies bottleneck tests, yet it is commonly violated in species with high fecundity.

Results

With large variance in reproductive success (Vk≥ 40, corresponding to a ratio between effective and census size smaller than 0.1), tests based on allele frequencies, allelic sizes, and DNA sequence polymorphisms (heterozygosity excess, M-ratio, and Tajima’sDtest) tend to show erroneous signals of a bottleneck. Similarly, strong evidence of population decline is erroneously detected when ancestral and current population sizes are estimated with the model based method MSVAR.

Conclusions

Our results suggest caution when interpreting the results of bottleneck tests in species showing high variance in reproductive success. Particularly in species with high fecundity, computer simulations are recommended to confirm the occurrence of a population bottleneck.
Facial skin and soft tissue infection caused by Mycobacterium wolinskyi associated with cosmetic procedures
Authors: Yoo Seung Jin , Lee Keun Hwa , Jung Sung-No , Heo Sang Taek
Published: October 2013

Background

Mycobacteirum wolinskyi is a member of the Mycobacterium smegmatis group, which is less frequently found in clinical settings than other nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) species. However, its clinical significance has recently increased in opportunistic infections. This case is the first report of facial skin and soft tissue infection by M. wolinskyi complicating cosmetic procedures.

Case presentation

A 56-year-old Asian female patient with a history of receiving multiple facial cosmetic procedures over the preceding 2 years was admitted to our institution with swelling, local pain, and erythema on the right cheek. Mycobacteirum fortuitum complex isolated from a pus culture was identified as M. wolinskyi by rpoB sequencing. Metallic foreign bodies and abscess were detected by radiologic imaging. The pus was incised and drained. Treatment comprised clarithromycin (500 mg every 12 h), amikacin (200 mg every 8 h), and ciprofloxacin (400 mg every 6 h).

Conclusion

We report the first case of facial skin and soft tissue infection with M. wolinskyi after multiple cosmetic procedures of filler injection and laser lipolysis. Increased occurrence of NTM infection in nosocomial settings suggests the importance of appropriate treatment including culturing and rpoB gene sequencing when patients who have undergone cosmetic procedures display symptoms and signs of soft tissue infection indicative of NTM infection.
Vaginal microbiome in women from Greenland assessed by microscopy and quantitative PCR
Authors: Datcu Raluca , Gesink Dionne , Mulvad Gert , Montgomery-Andersen Ruth , Rink Elisabeth , Koch Anders , Ahrens Peter , Jensen Jørgen Skov
Published: October 2013

Background

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common condition, although its aetiology remains unexplained. The aim of this study was to analyse the composition of vaginal microbiota in women from Greenland to provide a quantitative description and improve the understanding of BV.

Methods

Self-collected vaginal smears and swabs were obtained from 177 women. The vaginal smears were graded for BV according to Nugent’s criteria. The vaginal swab samples were analysed by 19 quantitative PCRs (qPCRs) for selected vaginal bacteria and by PCR for four sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Results

STIs were common: Mycoplasma genitalium 12%, Chlamydia trachomatis 7%, Neisseria gonorrhoeae 1%, and Trichomonas vaginalis 0.5%. BV was found in 45% of women, but was not associated with individual STIs. Seven of the 19 vaginal bacteria (Atopobium vaginae, Prevotella spp., Gardnerella vaginalis, BVAB2, Eggerthella-like bacterium, Leptotrichia amnionii, and Megasphaera type 1) had areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve > 85%, suggesting they are good predictors of BV according to Nugent. Prevotella spp. had the highest odds ratio for BV (OR 437; 95% CI 82–2779) in univariate analysis considering only specimens with a bacterial load above the threshold determined by ROC curve analysis as positive, as well as the highest adjusted odds ratio in multivariate logistic regression analysis (OR 4.4; 95% CI 1.4-13.5). BV could be subdivided into clusters dominated by a single or a few species together.

Conclusions

BV by Nugent score was highly prevalent. Two of seven key species (Prevotella spp. and A. vaginae) remained significantly associated with BV in a multivariate model after adjusting for other bacterial species. G. vaginalis and Prevotella spp. defined the majority of BV clusters.
A dynamic method for the investigation of induced state metabolic capacities as a function of temperature
Authors: Sagmeister Patrick , Langemann Timo , Wechselberger Patrick , Meitz Andrea , Herwig Christoph
Published: October 2013

Background

Science-based recombinant bioprocess designs as well as the design of statistical experimental plans for process optimization (Design of Experiments, DoE) demand information on physiological bioprocess boundaries, such as the onset of acetate production, adaptation times, mixed feed metabolic capabilities or induced state maximum metabolic rates as at the desired cultivation temperature. Dynamic methods provide experimental alternatives to determine this information in a fast and efficient way. Information on maximum metabolic capabilities as a function of temperature is needed in case a reduced cultivation temperature is desirable (e.g. to avoid inclusion body formation) and an appropriate feeding profile is to be designed.

Results

Here, we present a novel dynamic method for the determination of the specific growth rate as a function of temperature for induced recombinant bacterial bioprocesses. The method is based on the control of the residual substrate concentration at non-limiting conditions with dynamic changes in cultivation temperature. The presented method was automated in respect to information extraction and closed loop control by means of in-line Fourier Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) residual substrate measurements and on-line first principle rate-based soft-sensors. Maximum induced state metabolic capabilities as a function of temperature were successfully extracted for a recombinant E. coli C41 fed-batch bioprocess without the need for sampling in a time frame of 20 hours.

Conclusions

The presented method was concluded to allow the fast and automated extraction of maximum metabolic capabilities (specific growth rate) as a function of temperature. This complements the dynamic toolset necessary for science-based recombinant bacterial bioprocess design and DoE design.
The national employment guarantee scheme and inequities in household spending on food and non-food determinants of health in rural India
Authors: Dilip TR , Dandona Rakhi , Dandona Lalit
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Inequities in a population in spending on food and non-food items can contribute to disparities in health status. The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) was launched in rural India in 2006, aimed at providing at least 100 days of manual work to a member in needy households.

Methods

We used nationally representative data from the consumer expenditure surveys of 2004–05 and 2009–10 and the employment survey of 2009–10 conducted by National Sample Survey Organisation to assess the effect of MGNREGS in reducing inequities in consumption of food and non-food items between poor and non-poor households in the states of India. Variations among the states in implementation of MGNREGS were examined using the employment and unemployment survey data, and compared with official programme data up to 2012–13. Inequity in spending on food and non-food items was assessed using the ratio of monthly per capita consumer expenditure (MPCE) between the most vulnerable (labourer) and least vulnerable categories of households.

Results

The survey data suggested 1.42 billion person-days of MGNRGES employment in the 2009–10 financial year, whereas the official programme data reported 2.84 billion person-days. According to the official data, the person-days of MGNRGES employment decreased by 43.3% from 2009–10 to 2012–13 for the 9 large less developed states of India. Survey data revealed that the average number of MGNREGS work days in a year per household varied from 42 days in Rajasthan to less than 10 days in 14 of the 20 major states in India in 2009–10. Rajasthan with the highest implementation of MGNRGES among the 9 less developed states of India had the highest relative decline of 10.4% in the food spending inequity from 2004–05 to 2009–10 between the most vulnerable and less vulnerable households. The changes in inequity for non-food spending did not have any particular pattern across the less developed states. In the most vulnerable category, the households in Rajasthan that got 100 or more days of work in a year under MGNREGS had a 25.9% increase in MPCE.

Conclusion

MGNREGS seems to have contributed to the reduction in food consumption inequity in rural Rajasthan in 2009–10, and has the potential of making a similar contribution with higher level of implementation of this programme in other states. Non-food consumption inequities benefited less from MGNRGES until 2009–10. The reported decrease in the MGNRGES employment person-days in the less developed states of India from 2009–10 to 2012–13 is of concern.
Tension pneumothorax, is it a really life-threatening condition?
Authors: Yoon Jeong Seob , Choi Si Young , Suh Jong Hui , Jeong Jin Yong , Lee Bae Young , Park Yong Gue , Kim Chi Kyung , Park Chan Beom
Published: October 2013

Background

Tension pneumothorax is a life-threatening occurrence that is infrequently the consequence of spontaneous pneumothorax. The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors for the development of tension pneumothorax and its effect on clinical outcomes.

Methods

We reviewed patients who were admitted with spontaneous pneumothorax between August 1, 2003 and December 31, 2011. Electronic medical records and the radiological findings were reviewed with chest x-ray and high-resolution computed tomography scans that were retrieved from the Picture Archiving Communication System.

Results

Out of the 370 patients included in this study, tension pneumothorax developed in 60 (16.2%). The bullae were larger in patients with tension pneumothorax than in those without (23.8 ± 16.2 mm vs 16.1 ± 19.1 mm; P = 0.007). In addition, the incidence of tension pneumothorax increased with the lung bulla size. Fibrotic adhesion was more prevalent in the tension pneumothorax group than in that without (P = 0.000). The bullae were large in patients with fibrotic adhesion than in those without adhesion (35.0 ± 22.3 mm vs 10.4 ± 11.5 mm; P = 0.000). On multivariate analysis, the size of bullae (odds ratio (OR) = 1.03, P = 0.001) and fibrotic adhesion (OR = 10.76, P = 0.000) were risk factors of tension pneumothorax. Hospital mortality was 3.3% in the tension pneumothorax group and it was not significantly different from those patients without tension pneunothorax (P = 0.252).

Conclusions

Tension pneumothorax is not uncommon, but clinically fatal tension pneumothorax is extremely rare. The size of the lung bullae and fibrotic adhesion contributes to the development of tension pneumothorax.
Visualizing genomic information across chromosomes with PhenoGram
Authors: Wolfe Daniel , Dudek Scott , Ritchie Marylyn D , Pendergrass Sarah A
Published: October 2013

Background

With the abundance of information and analysis results being collected for genetic loci, user-friendly and flexible data visualization approaches can inform and improve the analysis and dissemination of these data. A chromosomal ideogram is an idealized graphic representation of chromosomes. Ideograms can be combined with overlaid points, lines, and/or shapes, to provide summary information from studies of various kinds, such as genome-wide association studies or phenome-wide association studies, coupled with genomic location information. To facilitate visualizing varied data in multiple ways using ideograms, we have developed a flexible software tool called PhenoGram which exists as a web-based tool and also a command-line program.

Results

With PhenoGram researchers can create chomosomal ideograms annotated with lines in color at specific base-pair locations, or colored base-pair to base-pair regions, with or without other annotation. PhenoGram allows for annotation of chromosomal locations and/or regions with shapes in different colors, gene identifiers, or other text. PhenoGram also allows for creation of plots showing expanded chromosomal locations, providing a way to show results for specific chromosomal regions in greater detail. We have now used PhenoGram to produce a variety of different plots, and provide these as examples herein. These plots include visualization of the genomic coverage of SNPs from a genotyping array, highlighting the chromosomal coverage of imputed SNPs, copy-number variation region coverage, as well as plots similar to the NHGRI GWA Catalog of genome-wide association results.

Conclusions

PhenoGram is a versatile, user-friendly software tool fostering the exploration and sharing of genomic information. Through visualization of data, researchers can both explore and share complex results, facilitating a greater understanding of these data.
FSH in vitro versus LH in vivo: similar genomic effects on the cumulus
Authors: Assidi Mourad , Richard François J , Sirard Marc-André
Published: October 2013

The use of gonadotropins to trigger oocyte maturation bothin vivoandin vitrohas provided precious and powerful knowledge that has significantly increased our understanding of the ovarian function. Moreover, the efficacy of most assisted reproductive technologies (ART) used in both humans and livestock species relies on gonadotropin input, mainly FSH and LH. Despite the significant progress achieved and the huge impact of gonadotropins, the exact molecular pathways of the two pituitary hormones, FSH and LH, still remain poorly understood. Moreover, these pathways may not be the same when moving from thein vivoto thein vitrocontext. This misunderstanding of the intricate synergy between these two hormones leads to a lack of consensus about their use mainlyin vitroor in ovulation induction schedulesin vivo. In order to optimize their use, additional work is thus required with a special focus on comparing thein vitroversus thein vivoeffects. In this context, this overview will briefly summarize the downstream gene expression pathways induced by both FSHin vitroand LHin vivoin the cumulus compartment. Based on recent microarray comparative analysis, we are reporting thatin vitroFSH stimulation on cumulus cells appears to achieve at least part of the gene expression activity afterin vivoLH stimulation. We are then proposing that the in vitro FSH-response of cumulus cells have similitudes with the in vivo LH-response.
Interpretation of hydraulic rock types with resistivity logs in Tertiary deepwater turbidite reservoirs: Pore-scale modeling verified with field observations in the Gulf of Mexico, USA
Authors: Xu Chicheng , Torres-Verdín Carlos , Gao Shuang
Published: October 2013

Well-log-based hydraulic rock typing is critical in deepwater reservoir description and modeling. Resistivity logs are often used for hydraulic rock typing due to their high sensitivity to rock textural attributes such as porosity and tortuosity. However, resistivity logs measured at different water saturation conditions need to be cautiously used for hydraulic rock typing because, by definition, the properties of hydraulic rock types (HRT) are independent of fluid saturation. We compare theoretical models of electrical and hydraulic conductivity of clastic rocks exhibiting different pore-size distributions and originating from different sedimentary grain sizes. When rocks exhibiting similar porosity ranges are fully saturated with high-salinity water, hydraulic conductivity is dominantly controlled by characteristic pore size while electrical conductivity is only marginally affected by the characteristic pore size. As a result, rock types with similar porosity but different characteristic pore sizes cannot be effectively differentiated with resistivity logs in a water-bearing zone. In a hydrocarbon-bearing zone at irreducible water saturation, capillary pressure gives rise to specific desaturation behaviors in different rock types during hydrocarbon migration, thereby causing differentiable resistivity log attributes that are suitable for classifying HRT. Core data and well logs acquired from a deep-drilling exploration well penetrating Tertiary turbidite oil reservoirs in the Gulf of Mexico, verify that inclusion of resistivity logs in the rock classification workflow can significantly improve the accuracy of hydraulic rock typing in zones at irreducible water saturation. Classification results exhibit a good agreement with those obtained from nuclear magnetic resonance logs, but have relatively lower vertical resolution. The detected and ranked HRT exhibit different grain-size distributions, which provide useful information for sedimentary facies analysis.
Formulations of Equivalent Linearization of Lead-Rubber Bearings for Incorporating the Effect of Lead Core Heating
Authors: Özdemir Gökhan
Published: October 2013

In this paper, new formulations to calculate equivalent damping ratios used in equivalent linear analysis of seismic-isolated structures, specifically isolated with lead-rubber bearings (LRBs), are proposed. These formulations are capable of incorporating the variation in LRB hysteretic behavior due to reduced bearing strength as a function of lead core heating. To quantify the accuracy of the proposed equations in predicting the maximum isolator displacements (MIDs), MIDs obtained from an extensive number of nonlinear time history analyses (NTHAs) were compared with predicted ones. NTHAs were conducted with two sets of near-field ground motions recorded at different soil conditions. It was found that different formulations are needed to calculate the equivalent LRB damping ratios for the two considered ground motion sets. It was also found that the proposed equations result in highly accurate MID estimations, regardless of isolator characteristics, soil properties, or seismicity levels.
Association Between the Prevalence of Symptoms and Health-Related Quality of Life in Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Report From the St Jude Lifetime Cohort Study
Authors: Huang I-Chan , Brinkman Tara M. , Kenzik Kelly , Gurney James G. , Ness Kirsten K. , Lanctot Jennifer , Shenkman Elizabeth , Robison Leslie L. , Hudson Melissa M. , Krull Kevin R.
Published: October 2013

Purpose

We investigated the association between prevalence of symptoms and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in adult survivors of childhood cancer enrolled in the St Jude Lifetime Cohort study.

Methods

Eligibility criteria include childhood malignancy treated at St Jude, survival ≥ 10 years from diagnosis, and current age ≥ 18 years. Study participants were 1,667 survivors (response rate = 65%). Symptoms were self-reported by using a comprehensive health questionnaire and categorized into 12 classes: cardiac; pulmonary; motor/movement; pain in head; pain in back/neck; pain involving sites other than head, neck, and back; sensation abnormalities; disfigurement; learning/memory; anxiety; depression; and somatization. HRQOL was measured by using physical/mental component summary (PCS/MCS) and six domain scores of the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to investigate associations between symptom classes and HRQOL. Cumulative prevalence of symptom classes in relation to time from diagnosis was estimated.

Results

Pain involving sites other than head, neck and back, and disfigurement represented the most frequent symptom classes, endorsed by 58.7% and 56.3% of survivors, respectively. Approximately 87% of survivors reported multiple symptom classes. Greater symptom prevalence was associated with poorer HRQOL. In multivariable analysis, symptom classes explained up to 60% of the variance in PCS and 56% of the variance in MCS; demographic and clinical variables explained up to 15% of the variance in PCS and 10% of the variance in MCS. Longer time since diagnosis was associated with higher cumulative prevalence in all symptom classes.

Conclusion

A large proportion of survivors suffered from many symptom classes, which was associated with HRQOL impairment.
Level of HER2 Gene Amplification Predicts Response and Overall Survival in HER2-Positive Advanced Gastric Cancer Treated With Trastuzumab
Authors: Gomez-Martin Carlos , Plaza Jose Carlos , Pazo-Cid Roberto , Salud Antonieta , Pons Francesc , Fonseca Paula , Leon Ana , Alsina Maria , Visa Laura , Rivera Fernando , Galan M. Carmen , del Valle Elena , Vilardell Felipe , Iglesias Mar , Fernandez Soledad , Landolfi Stefania , Cuatrecasas Miriam , Mayorga Marta , Jose Paulés M. , Sanz-Moncasi Pilar , Montagut Clara , Garralda Elena , Rojo Federico , Hidalgo Manuel , Lopez-Rios Fernando
Published: October 2013

Purpose

Previous studies have highlighted the importance of an appropriate human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) evaluation for the proper identification of patients eligible for treatment with anti-HER2 targeted therapies. Today, the relationship remains unclear between the level of HER2 amplification and the outcome of HER2-positive gastric cancer treated with first-line chemotherapy with trastuzumab. The aim of this study was to determine whether the level of HER2 gene amplification determined by the HER2/CEP17 ratio and HER2 gene copy number could significantly predict some benefit in overall survival and response to therapy in advanced gastric cancer treated with trastuzumab-based chemotherapy.

Patients and Methods

Ninety patients with metastatic gastric cancer treated with first-line trastuzumab-based chemotherapy were studied. The optimal cutoff values for HER2/CEP17 ratio and HER2 gene copy number (GCN) for discriminating positive results in terms of response and prolonged survival were determined using receiver operating characteristic curves analyses.

Results

In this study, a median HER2/CEP17 ratio of 6.11 (95% CI, 2.27 to 21.90) and a median HER2 gene copy number of 11.90 (95% CI, 3.30 to 43.80) were found. A mean HER2/CEP17 ratio of 4.7 was identified as the optimal cutoff value discriminating sensitive and refractory patients (P = .005). Similarly, the optimal cutoff for predicting survival longer than 12 months was 4.45 (P = .005), and for survival longer than 16 months was 5.15 (P = .004). For HER2 GCN, the optimal cutoff values were 9.4, 10.0, and 9.5, respectively (P = .02).

Conclusion

The level of HER2 gene amplification significantly predicts sensitivity to therapy and overall survival in advanced gastric cancer treated with trastuzumab-based chemotherapy.