bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute alcohol effects on impulsivity: associations with drinking and driving behavior
Authors: McCarthy Denis M. , Niculete Maria E. , Treloar Hayley R. , Morris David H. , Bartholow Bruce D.
Published: June 2012

Aims

Although drink drivers exhibit higher levels of trait impulsivity, no studies have tested the hypothesis that drink drivers experience increased impulsivity while intoxicated. We tested this hypothesis for two impulsivity constructs: delay discounting and behavioral inhibition.

Design

A within‐subjects study comparing performance of drink drivers and non‐drink drivers on behavioral measures of impulsivity in alcohol and no‐beverage sessions.

Setting

A laboratory setting at the University of Missouri.

Participants

Twenty‐nine young adults who were at least moderate drinkers were recruited from the local community and the University of Missouri.

Measurements

Impulsivity was assessed using the Two Choice Impulsivity Paradigm (TCIP) and the Stop‐Signal Task. Participants also completed self‐report measures of binge drinking and trait impulsivity.

Findings

In the no‐beverage session, TCIP impulsive choices did not differ between drinking and driving groups (P = 0.93). In the alcohol session, drink drivers made more TCIP impulsive choices on both the ascending (P < 0.01) and descending limb (P < 0.01) of the blood alcohol concentration curve than their peers who did not drink and drive. Drinking and driving groups did not differ on the Stop‐Signal Task. Supplementary analyses indicated that effects for the TCIP were not explained by individual differences in trait impulsivity.

Conclusions

Individuals who report having three or more drinks before driving show greater impulsivity when under the influence of alcohol than those who do not report heavy drinking before driving.
Systematic review: are lymphocytic colitis and collagenous colitis two subtypes of the same disease ‐ microscopic colitis?
Authors: Rasmussen M. A. , Munck L. K.
Published: June 2012

Background

Despite similar clinical symptoms, collagenous colitis (CC) and lymphocytic colitis (LC) are considered two distinct disease entities.

Aim

To compare pathoanatomical findings, clinical presentations, risk factors, course of diseases and response to treatment in CC and LC to establish whether they could be subtypes of the same disease, microscopic colitis (MC).

Methods

The MEDLINE was searched for CC, LC and MC, and clinical studies of >20 patients were included. Pooled results with 95% confidence intervals were calculated based on the number of patients.

Results

An abnormal number of intraepithelial lymphocytes are found in 45% (40–50%) with CC, and an abnormal subepithelial collagen band in 16% (13–20%) with LC suggesting a histological overlap. The incidence of CC and LC has increased in parallel. Mean age (CC 63 years; LC 60 years) and clinical presentation are indistinguishable, and females are predominant in CC (77%; 75–79%) as well as LC (68%; 66–70%). Risk factors such as nonsteroid anti‐inflammatory drugs consumption CC 39% (36–42%); LC 32% (29–35%) are similar and prevalence of concomitant autoimmune diseases such as coeliac disease (CC 5%; CI: 4–6% and LC 7%; CI: 6–9%) do not differ. Bile acid diarrhoea is highly prevalent in CC (41%; 37–45%) and LC (29%; 24–34%). The effect of budesonide is identical.

Conclusions

CC and LC could be considered histological subtypes of the same disease, MC. To facilitate recruitment to clinical trials, all MC patients could be included in future trials and stratified for subtypes.
Differential interaction of seed polyphenols from grapes collected at different maturity stages with the protein fraction of saliva
Authors: Obreque‐Slier Elías , López‐Solís Remigio , Peña‐Neira Álvaro
Published: June 2012

Grape seed and skin proanthocyanidins undergo significant changes during grape maturation. Those changes have been associated with a decreased astringency of grapes collected at later maturation stages. We have now compared the ability of proanthocyanidin‐rich extracts from Carménère grape seeds collected at two stages of berry development (veraison vs. harvest) both to interact with salivary proteins and to produce astringency. Interaction of proanthocyanidins with the salivary protein was assessed by analysing the concentration‐dependent effect of seed extracts both on inducing salivary protein precipitation and on restricting diffusion of the salivary protein on cellulose membranes. Seed extracts from grapes collected at veraison compared with those of grapes collected at harvest displayed a higher ability both to interact with the salivary protein fraction and to produce astringency. As a whole, our observations show that astringency is closely dependent on the magnitude of the interactions between proanthocyanidins and the salivary protein fraction.
Males do not prolong copulation in response to competitor males in the polyandrous fly Drosophila bifasciata
Authors: LIZÉ ANNE , PRICE THOMAS A. R. , MARCELLO MARCO , SMALLER EVE A. , LEWIS ZENOBIA , HURST GREGORY D. D.
Published: June 2012

Males in many taxa exhibit behavioural plasticity in response to the perceived threat of sperm competition. Drosophila males prolong mating in response to the presence of competitor males before copulation. The benefits of this behaviour to males are evident in Drosophila melanogaster. However, the adaptive nature of the trait is challenged by the observation that it is present in four other Drosophila species, two of which are largely monandrous, raising the possibility that this plasticity is not evolutionarily labile. In the present study, behavioural plasticity and the mating system in Drosophila bifasciata Pominini (Diptera, Drosophilidae) are analyzed. By contrast to other Drosophila species, male D. bifasciata do not exhibit plasticity in copulation duration when competitor males are present before mating. Thus, plasticity in mating duration is not fixed in the genus Drosophila. The mating system of D. bifasciata is also examined. The species is polyandrous but, uncommonly for the genus Drosophila, males transfer a mating plug composed of sperm to females, which forms very shortly after copulation and fills the female uterus. The absence of plasticity observed in D. bifasciata may arise from the sperm plug.
Clinical characteristics and risks of large congenital melanocytic naevi: A review of 31 patients at the Sydney Children's Hospital
Authors: Chen Andrew Chih‐Chieh , McRae Michelle Yvonne , Wargon Orli
Published: June 2012

Large congenital melanocytic naevi (LCMN) are associated with an increased risk of malignancy and neurocutaneous melanocytosis (NCM). This Australian study aims to assess both the clinical characteristics of LCMN and the risks associated with it. The authors reviewed medical records of the Sydney Children's Hospital Dermatology Outpatient Clinic for the past 10 years and identified 31 eligible patients. A total of 14 boys and 17 girls with a median age of 0.13 years were assessed; 18 lesions were on the trunk, five were on the head, five were on the lower limbs and three were on the upper limbs. In all 20 patients had satellite naevi (the median number of the satellite naevi was 7.5). The patients were followed up for a median duration of 12 months. Central nervous system magnetic resonance imaging was performed on 19 patients and two (6.5%) were found to have NCM. Biopsies were performed on five patients; one patient (3.2%) was found to have benign proliferative nodules of undifferentiated spindle cells but no patient (0%) was found to have a malignancy. The clinical characteristics for the two patients with NCM and the patient with benign proliferative nodules suggest that the risk of both NCM and benign proliferative nodules may be greater with an increased number of satellite naevi and with the LCMN being larger in size.
Administration of additional analgesics can decrease the incidence of paradoxical reactions in patients under benzodiazepine‐induced sedation during endoscopic transpapillary procedures: Prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Terui Torahiko , Inomata Masaaki
Published: June 2012

Aim

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of giving pentazocine as an analgesic with benzodiazepine during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

Methods

The paradoxical reactions (PR) incidence was evaluated as an indicator of usefulness. Transcutaneous arterial carbon dioxide tension (PtcCO2) was evaluated as an indicator of safety. Atotal of 160 patients were enrolled. Subjects were randomly divided into two groups; group 1 sedated with midazolam only and group 2 sedated both with midazolam and pentazocine (7.5 mg).

Results

The initial dosage introduced sedation before procedure was significantly higher in group 1. The occurrence rate of PR's in group 1 was significantly higher compared to that in group2 (P = 0.0108). Although maximum PtcCO2 observed during sedation did not differ between the two groups (48.7 ± 7.2, 50.3 ± 7.6 mmHg, respectively),maximum PtcCO2 during the first 15 min after the start of sedation was significantly higher in group 2 than in group 1 (P = 0.0294). In multivariate analysis, procedure duration (odds ratio [OR] = 1.048) and midazolam dose (OR = 1.221) were predictive factors for PR.

Conclusion

The administration of pentazocine is significantly reduced the incidence of PR's in patients under midazolaminduced sedation during ERCP.
Implication of antithrombotic agents on potential bleeding from endoscopically determined peptic ulcers, incidentally detected as surrogate markers for nsaids‐associated ulcers complication
Authors: Miyake Kazumasa , Kusunoki Masafumi , Ueki Nobue , Nagoya Hiroyuki , Kodaka Yasuhiro , Shindo Tomotaka , Kawagoe Tetsuro , Gudis Katya , Futagami Seiji , Tsukui Taku , Nakamura Hiroshi , Sakamoto Choitsu
Published: June 2012

Background and aim

Little is known about the clinical significance of treatment for endoscopically determined peptic ulcers (EPU), incidentally detected as surrogate endpoints for non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)‐associated ulcers complication, such as overt bleeding and perforation. Even uncomplicated‐EPU without overt bleeding signs when antithrombotic agents (AT) were cotherapied may be of potential bleeding sites. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether microcytic anemia, implying potential bleeding, is associated with NSAIDs‐associated EPU or cotherapies with AT.

Methods

Two hundred and thirty‐eight outpatients with rheumatoid arthritis under long‐term NSAIDs therapies underwent upper endoscopy and were divided into the following four groups according to the pattern (presence: + or absence: –) of AT cotherapy/EPU, respectively: A, –/– (n = 165); B, –/+ (n = 44); C, +/– (n = 25); and D, +/+ (n = 4).

Results

EPU were found in 48 of the 238 studied patients (20.2%). After significant interactions among four groups hadstatistically been identified, hemoglobin (Hb) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) as biomarkers for potential bleeding were compared between the groups.Hb and MCV were significantly lower in the D group than in the A,B, or C groups (Hb: P < 0.01, respectively; P < 0.05, MCV; P < 0.01 or P < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusions

Patients with NSAIDs‐associated EPU and AT cotherapy indicated significantly more severe microcytic anemia pattern than those without EPU or AT cotherapy, despite no evidence of overt bleeding. Even uncomplicated‐EPU without overt bleeding when ATs were cotherapied may be of potential bleeding sites.
One‐year safety, tolerability and efficacy of vildagliptin in patients with type 2 diabetes and moderate or severe renal impairment
Authors: Kothny W. , Shao Q. , Groop P.‐H. , Lukashevich V.
Published: June 2012

Aim

Assess long‐term safety and efficacy of the dipeptidlyl peptidase-4 (DPP‐4) inhibitor vildagliptin in 369 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and moderate or severe renal impairment (RI).

Methods

Double‐blind, randomized, parallel‐group, 52‐week clinical trial comparing safety and efficacy of vildagliptin (50 mg qd, n = 216) and placebo (n = 153) added to ongoing stable antihyperglycaemic treatment, in patients with T2DM and moderate or severe (glomerular filtration rate [GFR] ≥30 to <50 ml/min/1.73 m2and < 30 ml/min/1.73 m2) RI.

Results

The study population comprised 122 and 89 patients with moderate RI and 94 and 64 patients with severe RI randomized to vildagliptin and placebo, respectively, with the majority of patients receiving background insulin therapy (72% and 82% for moderate and severe RI, respectively). After 1 year, the between‐treatment difference in adjusted mean change in A1C was −0.4 ± 0.2% (p = 0.005) in moderate RI (baseline = 7.8%) and −0.7 ± 0.2% (p < 0.0001) in severe RI (baseline = 7.6%). In patients with moderate RI, similar proportions of patients experienced any adverse event (AE) (84 vs. 85%), any serious adverse event (SAE) (21 vs. 19%), any AE leading to discontinuation (5% vs. 6%) and death (1% vs. 0%) with vildagliptin and placebo, respectively. This was also true for patients with severe RI: AEs (85% vs. 88%), SAEs (25% vs. 25%), AEs leading to discontinuation (10% vs. 6%) and death (3% vs. 2%).

Conclusions

In patients with T2DM and moderate or severe RI, vildagliptin added to ongoing antidiabetic therapy had a safety profile similar to placebo during 1‐year observation. Furthermore, relative to placebo, a clinically significant decrease in A1C was maintained throughout 1‐year treatment with vildagliptin.
The impact of botulinum toxin A and abduction bracing on long‐term hip development in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: WILLOUGHBY KATE , ANG SOON GHEE , THOMASON PAM , GRAHAM H KERR
Published: June 2012

Aim  To study the long‐term impact of 3 years of botulinum toxin A (BoNT‐A) injections and abduction bracing on hip development in children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy (CP). We wanted to know if early treatment improved hip development and reduced the need for surgery.

Method  A long‐term review of hip morphology and surgery requirements in children who participated in a multicentre, randomized controlled trial. The trial investigated short‐term effects of BoNT‐A injections combined with an abduction brace, compared with usual care, on hip displacement in children with bilateral spastic CP.

Results  Forty‐six children with bilateral spastic CP (31 males, 15 females; 10 with diplegia, 36 with quadriplegia; mean age at enrolment of 3y 2mo, mean age at most recent clinical review 13y 11mo [range 10y 6mo–16y 8mo]; three children in Gross Motor Function Classification System level II, 11 in level III, 20 in level IV, 12 in level V) were followed for a mean of 10 years 10 months from recruitment to the trial. Mean migration percentage was 15.9% in the BoNT‐A group and 15.2% in the comparison group (t=0.26, p=0.79). Eighty‐nine percent of hips in the treatment group and 91% hips in the comparison group had satisfactory development, using a valid scale (Mann–Whitney U test=867.50, z=−1.59, p=0.11). Forty children had preventive surgery (21 treatment group, 19 comparison group) and 18 children had reconstructive surgery (10 treatment, 8 comparison).

Interpretation  In children with bilateral spastic CP, early treatment with BoNT‐A and hip abduction bracing does not reduce the need for surgery or improve hip development at skeletal maturity.
Elective birth at 37 weeks of gestation versus standard care for women with an uncomplicated twin pregnancy at term: the Twins Timing of Birth Randomised Trial
Authors: Dodd JM , Crowther CA , Haslam RR , Robinson JS ,   for the Twins Timing of Birth Trial Group
Published: June 2012

Please cite this paper as: Dodd J, Crowther C, Haslam R, Robinson J. Elective birth at 37 weeks of gestation versus standard care for women with an uncomplicated twin pregnancy at term: the Twins Timing of Birth Randomised Trial. BJOG 2012;119:964–974.

Objective  To evaluate whether for women with an uncomplicated twin pregnancy, elective birth at 37 weeks of gestation was associated with reduced risk of death or serious outcomes for babies, without increasing harm.

Design  Randomised controlled trial.

Setting  Maternity hospitals across Australia, New Zealand and Italy.

Population  A total of 235 women with an uncomplicated twin pregnancy at 36+6 weeks of gestation, with no contraindication to continuing their pregnancy.

Methods  Using a computer‐generated, central telephone randomisation service, 235 women were randomised to Elective Birth (birth at 37 weeks; n = 116) or Standard Care (continued expectant management, with birth planned from 38 weeks; n = 119). Outcome assessors were masked to treatment allocation.

Main outcome measure  A composite of serious adverse outcome for the infant.

Results  For women with an uncomplicated twin pregnancy, elective birth at 37 weeks of gestation was associated with a significant reduction in risk of serious adverse outcome for the infant (Elective Birth 11/232 [4.7%] versus Standard Care 29/238 [12.2%]; risk ratio [RR] 0.39; 95% CI 0.20–0.75; P = 0.005), reflecting a reduction in birthweight less than the third centile using singleton gestational age‐specific charts (Elective Birth 7/232 [3.0%] versus Standard Care 24/238 [10.1%]; RR 0.30; 95% CI 0.13–0.67; P = 0.004). In a post hoc analysis using twin gestational age‐specific charts, there was evidence of a trend towards a reduction in the primary composite of serious adverse infant outcome (Elective Birth Group 4/232 [1.7%] versus Standard Care Group 12/238 [5.0%]; RR 0.34; 95% CI 0.11 to 1.05; P = 0.06).

Conclusion  The findings of our study support recommendations for women with an uncomplicated twin pregnancy to birth at 37 weeks of gestation.
Effect of home‐based walking on performance and quality of life in patients with heart failure
Authors: Fayazi Sedigheh , Zarea Kourosh , Abbasi Ali , Ahmadi Farzaneh
Published: June 2012

Scand J Caring Sci; 2013; 27; 246–252

Effect of home‐based walking on performance and quality of life in patients with heart failure

Introduction:  Chronic heart failure defined as the inability of the heart to meet the demands of the tissues, which results in symptoms of fatigue or dyspnoea on energy progressing to dyspnoea at rest. The inability to perform the exercise without discomfort and poor quality of life may be one of the first symptoms experienced by patients with heart failure and is often the principal reason for seeking medical care.

Objectives:  The aim of the study was to find the effect of a home walking programme on the performance and quality of life in the patients with heart failure.

Methods and results:  Sixty patients with New York Heart Association class II and III heart failure were divided into two matched and equal groups. The quality of life scores and 6‐minute walking scores were measured for each patient at entry and after 8 weeks. Both groups were followed for 8 weeks. The results showed between mean walking distance on the 6 minutes at entry and after 8 weeks in the training group (p < 0.001), but no significance was seen between the control groups (p = 0.351). Furthermore, results showed a significant difference between mean of quality of life scores at entry and after 8 weeks in the training group, but such significance was not reported between before and after control group scores.

Conclusion:  The home‐based walking showed improvement in the performance, exercise tolerance time and quality of life in heart failure patients. Therefore, Nurses should employ alternatives such as home exercises in the caring of heart failure patients.
Focal cortical dysplasia type IIb in the rolandic cortex: Functional reorganization after early surgery documented by passive task functional MRI
Authors: Barba Carmen , Montanaro Domenico , Frijia Francesca , Giordano Flavio , Blümcke Ingmar , Genitori Lorenzo , De Masi Francesco , Guerrini Renzo
Published: June 2012

Surgery for seizures arising from the rolandic area can be performed effectively, and accurate mapping of eloquent regions may improve seizure and functional outcome. Noninvasive cortical mapping is, however, hardly feasible in young children. We studied two children with epileptogenic focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) type IIb in the rolandic area, in whom preoperative passive task functional MRI (fMRI) during sedation helped planning a tailored surgical approach. In one patient the dysplastic cortex was functionally activated. After complete lesionectomy both children exhibited motor impairment that readily improved. Repeat fMRI, performed after complete (Patient 1) or partial (Patient 2) recovery, demonstrated relocation of motor‐related activations posterior to the area of resection. fMRI during sedation can be used to demonstrate postsurgical functional reorganization of the motor cortex in young children. There is interindividual variability in functional activation of FCD type IIb.
The somatic comorbidity of epilepsy: A weighty but often unrecognized burden
Authors: Gaitatzis Athanasios , Sisodiya Sanjay M. , Sander Josemir W.
Published: June 2012

A range of medical and neurologic disorders occurs more frequently in people with epilepsy than in the general population and constitutes its somatic comorbidity. Common examples include cardiac, gastrointestinal, and respiratory disorders; stroke; dementia; and migraine. Alzheimer’s disease and migraine are not only more common in epilepsy but are also risk factors for the development of seizures, suggesting a bidirectional association and shared disease mechanisms. Less well‐appreciated associations with epilepsy include Parkinson’s disease and obstructive sleep apnea. The association between epilepsy and other conditions can be due to a variety of interacting genetic, biologic, and environmental factors. We propose an etiologic classification of comorbidity into uncertain (coincidence or unknown), causal (cause), shared risk factors (common disease mechanisms or shared predisposing risk factors), and resultant (consequence). Co‐occurrence of other conditions in a person with epilepsy can complicate diagnosis or have adverse prognostic implications. Management of these conditions may facilitate the treatment of epilepsy, as in the case of obstructive sleep apnea. The presence of somatic disorders in epilepsy is associated with increased health care needs, poorer health‐related quality of life, and premature mortality. Prevention, identification, and adequate treatment of comorbid disorders in epilepsy should be an important part of epilepsy management at all levels of care.
Glissandi: transient fast electrocorticographic oscillations of steadily increasing frequency, explained by temporally increasing gap junction conductance
Authors: Cunningham Mark O. , Roopun Anita , Schofield Ian S. , Whittaker Roger G. , Duncan Roderick , Russell Aline , Jenkins Alistair , Nicholson Claire , Whittington Miles A. , Traub Roger D.
Published: June 2012

Purpose:  We describe a form of very fast oscillation (VFO) in patient electrocorticography (ECoG) recordings, that can occur prior to ictal events, in which the frequency increases steadily from ∼30–40 to >120 Hz, over a period of seconds. We dub these events “glissandi” and describe a possible model for them.

Methods:  Four patients with epilepsy had presurgical evaluations (with ECoG obtained in two of them), and excised tissue was studied in vitro, from three of the patients. Glissandi were seen spontaneously in vitro, associated with ictal events—using acute slices of rat neocortex—and they were simulated using a network model of 15,000 detailed layer V pyramidal neurons, coupled by gap junctions.

Key findings:  Glissandi were observed to arise from human temporal neocortex. In vitro, they lasted 0.2–4.1 s, prior to ictal onset. Similar events were observed in the rat in vitro in layer V of frontal neocortex when alkaline solution was pressure‐ejected; glissandi persisted when γ‐aminobutyric acid A (GABAA), GABAB, and N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA), and alpha‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors were blocked. Nonalkaline conditions prevented glissando generation. In network simulations it was found that steadily increasing gap junction conductance would lead to the observed steady increase in VFO field frequency. This occurred because increasing gap junction conductance shortened the time required for an action potential to cross from cell to cell.

Significance:  The in vitro and modeling data are consistent with the hypothesis that glissandi arise when pyramidal cell gap junction conductances rise over time, possibly as a result of an alkaline fluctuation in brain pH.
Dilemmas in the interpretation of diagnostic accuracy studies on presurgical workup for epilepsy surgery
Authors: Burch Jane , Marson Anthony , Beyer Fiona , Soares Marta , Hinde Sebastian , Wieshmann Udo , Woolacott Nerys
Published: June 2012

We conducted a systematic review to determine which noninvasive technologies should be used in the workup for epilepsy surgery to identify structural or functional abnormalities to help locate the site of seizure onset. The review focused on patients where there was insufficient confidence, in either the decision to go to surgery or the site at which surgery should be conducted, after the initial clinical examination. The majority of the studies identified were single‐gate diagnostic accuracy studies; none were randomized controlled trials, and only one reported the effect of the test results on the decision making process. It became apparent that the data derived from diagnostic accuracy studies could not be used to answer the review question. This article focuses on the methods used to extract data from the diagnostic accuracy studies, the difficulties interpreting the resulting data, why such studies are not an appropriate study design in this setting, and how the evidence‐base can be improved.
Poiesis of Possibility: The Ethnographic Sensibilities of Ursula K. Le Guin
Authors: BAKER‐CRISTALES BETH
Published: June 2012

This article explores some of the ways Ursula Le Guin (daughter of famed anthropologist Alfred L. Kroeber) uses ethnographic modes of writing and anthropological insights in her works of social science fiction. It is based on a close reading of her fiction and an e‐interview with the author. While science fiction may seem a far cry from ethnography, careful attention to the critical functions of Le Guin's fiction can shed light on some of the underlying assumptions and implications of the ethnographic imagination and writing. As Le Guin herself has observed, anthropologists and novelists share common traits and often find themselves writing about similar things.
Messy Data, Ordered Questions
Authors: Hauser Mark W.
Published: June 2012

ABSTRACT  A lively debate was witnessed in 2011 about the role of deductive and interpretive approaches in the production of anthropological knowledge, especially as it relates to archaeology. Scholarly output in archaeology this year reflects this concern. First, there is a trend toward furthering our archaeological imagination—finding new ways of asking questions that link the most empirical of research projects with innovative social theory. Second, there is an embracement of the messiness of archaeological data and the conclusions we can reach from it. By looking at the messiness of archaeological data and the limits of knowledge, archaeology asserts itself as an open frontier for anthropological inquiry. [anthropological archaeology, historical archaeology, environment, identity, power]
Electrical Properties of Textured Niobium‐Doped Bismuth Titanate Ceramics
Authors: Aguiar Ederson C. , Simões Alexandre Z. , Foschini Cesar R. , Perazolli Leinig A. , Mistler Richard E. , Longo Elson , Varela Jose A.
Published: June 2012

Crystallographically textured Nb‐doped bismuth titanate ceramics Bi4Ti(3−x)NbxO12, were fabricated by tape casting using plate‐like Bi4Ti3O12 particles prepared by a molten‐salt method as the templates. The templates were aligned in the fine‐grained matrix by aqueous tape casting with their major surface parallel to the casting plane. Effect of niobium on the grain orientation in the material was investigated. It was found that the use of a fine precursor powder led to enhanced densification of the ceramic, while Nb doping reduced electrical conduction and dielectric loss, which enabled poling at high temperatures and high electric fields. The textured Bi4Ti3O12 ceramic showed a high anisotropy in its dielectric properties in the directions parallel and perpendicular to the casting plane. Highly textured BiT was obtained with the use of only 5 wt% of template particles by sintering at 800°C for 1 h.
Luminescence and Morphology of BaMgAl10O17:Eu2+ Phosphors Prepared from Different Phases of Al2O3
Authors: Ni Haiyong , Liang Hongbin , Su Qiang , Tao Ye , Huang Yan , Gao Zhenhua
Published: June 2012

The phosphors BaMgAl10O17:Eu2+ (BAM) were prepared by a high‐temperature solid‐state reaction method using BaCO3, MgO, Eu2O3, and Al2O3 with different (α, θ, and γ) phases. The reaction processes and final products were investigated and compared using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and VUV–UV–Vis spectra, indicating that Al2O3 has minimum influence on the crystallinity, morphology, and luminescence of BAM.
Salivary evaluation of pediatric patients with cancer, before and after antineoplasic treatment
Authors: Guerra Rosane N. M. , Oliveira‐Junior Joao J. , Mouchrek‐Filho Jose Carlos E. , Liberio Silvana A. , Lima Monica V. V. , Paim Deborah B.S , Brito Carolina X. L. , Mendonça Cristina , Nascimento Flavia Raquel F. , Pereira Antonio Luiz A.
Published: June 2012

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 527–532

Aims:  This study evaluated the salivary biochemical and immunological status of children with cancer undergoing to antineoplasic treatment in an attempt to identify alternatives for a less invasive and less painful monitoring of these patients.

Materials and Methods:  Unstimulated whole saliva samples were obtained from 115 children without cancer (control) and 32 children with cancer (CA). Children with cancer were also evaluated after antineoplasic treatment (CAT, n = 17). The salivary concentrations of glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, gamma‐glutamyltransferase (GGT), urea, insulin, thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3), levothyroxine (T4), and immunoglobulin A (IgA) were determined.

Results:  Acute lymphocytic leukemia, acute myeloid leukemia, and Hodgkin’s lymphoma were the most frequent cancers, although cases of non‐Hodgkin’s lymphoma, medulloblastoma, ependymoma, osteosarcoma, nephroblastoma, Ewing’s sarcoma, and endodermal sinus tumor were also observed. The salivary concentration of cholesterol, triglycerides, or GGT did not differ between groups. Instead, the concentrations of alkaline phosphatase and T4 were higher in patients with cancer, irrespective of treatment. TSH levels were higher in the CA group and urea concentration was lower in the CAT group. T3 was undetectable in all groups. Antineoplasic treatment increased the glucose level and decreased the insulin concentration. Salivary concentration of total IgA was lower in children with cancer, irrespective of treatment.

Conclusions:  Cancer and antineoplasic treatment affected biochemical and immunological parameters in the saliva of children, shedding new light on the potential usefulness of saliva for monitoring children with cancer, especially to patients undergoing immunosuppressive therapy.
Escalating therapy of cutaneous side effects of EGFR inhibitors: experience of German reference centers
Authors: Homey Bernhard , Gerber Peter Arne , Wollenberg Andreas , Dirschka Thomas , Hassel Jessica C , Bölke Edwin , Hauschild Axel , Gutzmer Ralf
Published: June 2012

Recommendations for the management of cutaneous adverse effects of inhibitors of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are urgently needed. In this context an expert panel of German dermatologists recently proposed a 3‐step management concept based on personal experience and a current literature consensus. While steps 1 and 2 addressed general and preventive measures, as well as the therapy that can be performed by the primary treating physician, here we address the management of challenging cases (step 3) that do not respond well to basic measures and should be referred to an experienced dermatologist.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae and mucositis – part of the Stevens‐Johnson syndrome spectrum
Authors: Meyer Sauteur Patrick M. , Goetschel Philippe , Lautenschlager Stephan
Published: June 2012

Background: Mycoplasma pneumoniae may induce mucosal inflammation, referred to as M. pneumoniae‐associated mucositis (MPAM). There is no generally accepted definition of MPAM, since there may be mucosal lesions only, or mucosal and minimal skin lesions.

Patients and Methods: We conducted a literature review of MPAM, paying particular attention to pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, treatment decisions, and prognosis.

Results: We identified 32 cases of MPAM (median age 13.5 years), whereof 23 patients were otherwise healthy children and young adolescents (72%). M. pneumoniae infection was associated with fever and respiratory symptoms in all calls; it was confirmed by serology (n = 30) and/or PCR (n = 9). Oral lesions were present in all cases, followed by ocular (97%) and uro‐genital lesions (78%). Despite the syndrome's name postulating the absence of cutaneous involvement, minimal skin lesions occurred in 31%. Treatment regimens included systemic antibiotics (100%) and systemic anti‐inflammatory treatment with corticosteroids (31%) or immunoglobulins (9%). Macrolides were given in 81%, with failure, relapse, and/or worsening in one‐third of patients. No patient suffered long‐term sequelae.

Conclusion: MPAM is a distinct extra‐pulmonary manifestation falling into the continuum of Stevens‐Johnson syndrome. This entity may be due to inflammatory mechanisms suggesting that systemic anti‐inflammatory treatment is even more important than antimicrobials.
Antibiotic use in infants in the first year of life in five European countries
Authors: Stam Jose , van Stuijvenberg Margriet , Grüber Christoph , Mosca Fabio , Arslanoglu Sertac , Chirico Gaetano , Braegger Christian P , Riedler Josef , Boehm Günther , Sauer Pieter JJ ,   for the Multicenter Infection Prevention Study 1 (MIPS 1) Study Group
Published: June 2012

Aim:  To assess in infants the number of illness episodes treated with antibiotics and prescription rates in five European countries.

Methods:  This study was embedded in a multicenter nutritional intervention study and was conducted in five European countries. Infants were followed until 1 year of age. Illness episodes and prescriptions of systemic antibiotics were recorded by the parents.

Results:  Illness episodes were caused by upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) in 55–64% and by otitis media (OM) in 2–6.8%. URTIs were statistically significant and more frequently treated with antibiotics in Italy (18.8%), and less frequently in Switzerland (1.4%). OM was statistically significant and less frequently treated with antibiotics in the Netherlands (55%) when compared to Italy (82%). The antibiotic prescription rate varied between countries, ranging from 0.2 to 1.3 prescriptions per infant per year.

Conclusions:  As the frequency of illness episodes did not differ between countries, other factors, such as physician’s attitude, parental pressure or other socio‐economic determinants, most likely play a role in antibiotic prescribing habits in the first year of life.
Broad Scale Distribution of Ferns and Lycophytes along Environmental Gradients in Central and Northern Amazonia, Brazil
Authors: Zuquim Gabriela , Tuomisto Hanna , Costa Flávia R.C. , Prado Jefferson , Magnusson William E. , Pimentel Tania , Braga‐Neto Ricardo , Figueiredo Fernando O.G.
Published: June 2012

Establishing which factors determine species distributions is of major relevance for practical applications such as conservation planning. The Amazonian lowlands exhibit considerable internal heterogeneity that is not apparent in existing vegetation maps. We used ferns as a model group to study patterns in plant species distributions and community composition at regional and landscape scales. Fern species composition and environmental data were collected in 109 plots of 250 × 2 m distributed among four sites in Brazilian Amazonia. Interplot distances varied from 1 toca670 km. When floristically heterogeneous datasets were analyzed, the use of an extended Sørensen dissimilarity index rather than the traditional Sørensen index improved model fit and made interpretation of the results easier. Major factors associated with species composition varied among sites, difference in cation concentration was a strong predictor of floristic dissimilarity in those sites with pronounced heterogeneity in cation concentration. Difference in clay content was the most relevant variable in sites with uniform cation concentrations. In every case, environmental differences were invariably better than geographic distances in predicting species compositional differences. Our results are consistent with the ideas that: (1) the relative predictive capacity of the explanatory variables depend on the relative lengths of the observed gradients; and (2) environmental gradients can be hierarchically structured such that gradients occur inside gradients. Therefore, site‐specific relationships among variables can mask the bigger picture and make it more difficult to unravel the factors structuring plant communities in Amazonia.
High‐throughput genotyping of single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in ace‐1 gene of mosquitoes using MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry
Authors: Mao Yun , Tan Feng , Yan Shuai‐Guo , Wu Guo‐Xing , Qiao Chuan‐Ling , Zhang Wen‐Xue , Cui Feng
Published: June 2012

Abstract  Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) plays a vital role in the nervous system of insects and other animal species and serves as the target for many chemical agents such as organophosphate and carbamate insecticides. The mosquito, Culex pipiens complex, a vector of human disease, has evolved to be resistant to insecticides by a limited number of amino acid substitutions in AChE1, which is encoded by the ace‐1 gene. The aims of this study are to identify single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) sites in the ace‐1 gene of the C. pipiens complex and explore an economical high‐throughput method to differentiate the genotypes of these sites in mosquitoes collected in the field. We identified 22 SNP sites in exon regions of the ace‐1 gene. Four of them led to non‐synonymous mutations, that is, Y163C, G247S, C677S and T682A. We used matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization – time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry for genotyping at these four sites and another site F416V, which was relevant to insecticide resistance, in 150 mosquitoes collected from 15 field populations. We were able to synchronize analysis of the five SNP sites in each well of a 384‐well plate for each individual mosquito, thus decreasing the cost to one‐fifth of the routine analysis. Heterozygous genotypes at Y163C and G247S sites were observed in one mosquito. The possible influence of the five SNP sites on the activity or function of the enzyme is discussed based on the predicted tertiary structure of the enzyme.
Signs of magnetic accretion in the young Be/X-ray pulsar SXP 1062
Authors: Ikhsanov N. R.
Published: June 2012

The spin behaviour of the neutron star in the newly discovered young Be/X-ray long-period pulsar SXP 1062 is discussed. The star is observed to rotate with the period of 1062 s, and spin down at the rate ∼−2.6 × 10−12 Hz s−1. I show that all of the conventional accretion scenarios encounter major difficulties in explaining the rapid spin-down of the pulsar. These difficulties can be, however, avoided within the magnetic accretion scenario in which the neutron star is assumed to accrete from a magnetized wind. The spin-down rate of the pulsar can be explained within this scenario provided the surface magnetic field of the neutron star is B*∼ 4 × 1013 G. I show that the age of the pulsar in this case lies in the range (2–4) × 104 yr, which is consistent with observations. The spin evolution of the pulsar is briefly discussed.
Bilateral obturator neuropathy caused by an intrapelvic fibrosarcoma with myofibroblastic features in a dog
Authors: Vanhaesebrouck A. E. , Maes S. , Van Soens I. , Baeumlin Y. , Saey V. , Van Ham L. M.
Published: June 2012

A nine‐year‐old female Rottweiler presented with a 6‐week history of progressive impairment of hindlimb adduction. Clinical examination showed abduction of both hind legs when walking on a smooth surface, pain at the medial surface of the left thigh, and an intrarectal palpable mass at the pelvic floor. Electromyography demonstrated fibrillation potentials in the adductor muscles on both sides. Pelvic radiographs showed severe osteolysis of the ischium. Gross post‐mortem examination following euthanasia disclosed a large retroperitoneal mass, invading the obturator foramina and compressing both obturator nerves. Histopathological examination revealed a high‐grade anaplastic sarcoma. Immunohistochemically, the tumour cells labelled positively for vimentin and alpha‐smooth muscle actin, hence the tumour was considered a “myofibroblastic fibrosarcoma”. This unique case report describes a novel cause of obturator neuropathy in veterinary medicine. To date, clinical descriptions of obturator nerve lesions have been limited to pelvic fractures in small animals and following difficult labour in large animals.
Does speculation drive the price of oil?
Authors: Hannesson Rögnvaldur
Published: June 2012

An error correction model is estimated for the spot versus 12 months futures price of Brent Blend. Whether or not speculation in the futures market has been driving the spot price is examined by testing for Granger causality; if the futures price Ganger causes the spot price and not the other way around, it is an indication that speculation in the futures market is influencing the spot price. We find this to be the case for the recent changes in the oil price, both for the run‐up to the price peak of July 2008, the subsequent abrupt fall, and the rise from early 2009 to May 2011.
Demise of the Developmental State? Implications for Social Policy Development in Hong Kong
Authors: Shik Angela Wai Yan , Wong Chack‐kie
Published: June 2012

This paper argues that Hong Kong is now at the crossroads of its journey towards social policy development. While economic development still seems to be the unwavering objective of the Hong Kong government, the demand for democracy and social development can no longer be ignored because of a strong civil society fostered by economic success. The current state of affairs provides a window of opportunity for the Hong Kong government to strengthen its legitimacy through the development of social policy and to promote social harmony through inclusivity in social welfare. The findings from the present empirical survey conducted by the Hong Kong Institute of Asia‐Pacific Studies (HKIAPS) in 2010 demonstrate that Hong Kong people identified social harmony as the main direction for social development, closely followed by economic development, and democracy and freedom. Respondents who chose social harmony as the main goal of social development were more likely to take a step back and find common ground when fighting for their own rights or the rights of society. This paper concludes that these findings reflect the crucial importance of taking social harmony into consideration in the social policy development process.
Human Cytomegalovirus Linked to Stroke in a Chinese Population
Authors: Huang Zheng‐Rong , Yu Li‐Ping , Yang Xin‐Chun , Zhang Fan , Chen You‐Ren , Feng Fang , Qian Xiao‐Sen , Cai Jun
Published: June 2012

Aim: Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is implicated in several cardiovascular disorders, including atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, and cardiac transplant arteriopathy. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between HCMV and stroke. Methods: Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and ELISA were performed on plasma samples isolated from 200 patients diagnosed with stroke and 200 controls. All participants belonged to the Stroke Hypertension Investigation in Genetics (SHINING) study. Results: HCMV seropositivity was higher in the stroke group than in controls (55.0% vs. 23.5%; P < 0.0001). The presence of HCMV DNA increased the risk of stroke (unadjusted odds ratio [OR], 3.98; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.59 to 6.11; P < 0.0001). Risks were also increased for the subtypes ischemic stroke (unadjusted OR, 4.01; 95% CI, 2.57–6.24; P < 0.0001) and hemorrhagic stroke (unadjusted OR, 3.80; 95% CI, 1.64–8.78; P= 0.0018). Increased risk with HCMV remained significant after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, hypertension, and smoking (ischemic stroke: adjusted OR, 4.07; 95% CI, 2.52–6.32; P < 0.0001; hemorrhagic stroke: adjusted OR, 3.88; 95% CI, 1.61–9.36; P= 0.0026). Conclusions: We demonstrate a novel link between HCMV infection and stroke. These findings may provide important insights into the pathogenesis of stroke.
Projected focal nodular hyperplasia of the liver with pronounced atypical ductular reaction resembling ductal plate and expressing KIT
Authors: Terada Tadashi
Published: June 2012

A 26‐year‐old woman was found to have a left abdominal tumor in the space among the hepatic left lobe, stomach and spleen. A laparoscopic examination revealed that the tumor was a projected liver tumor, and resection of the tumor was performed. Grossly, the tumor was not encapsulated and measured 4 cm × 4 cm × 5 cm. Microscopically, the tumor was composed of mature hepatocytes, fibrous septae, abnormal vessels and ductular reaction (DR). A pathological diagnosis of projected focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) was made. Characteristically, the cells of the DR showed atypical features such as small cells and hyperchromatic nuclei. The DR assumed the features of ductal plate‐like structures and immunohistochemically expressed KIT, suggesting that the cells of DR are stem cells and that when the stem cells proliferate they take a form of ductal plate‐like structures, similar to fetal bile duct development. Immunohistochemically, the cells of DR were positive for cytokeratin (CK) AE1/3, CK CAM5.2, CK7, CK8, CK18, CK19, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), CA19‐9, Ki‐67 (labeling = 3%) and KIT, but negative for CK20, p53, TTF‐1, CDX2, MUC1, MUC2, MUC5AC and MUC6. The hepatocytes were positive for CK CAM5.2, CK8, CK18 and Ki‐67 (labeling = 4%), but negative for CK AE1/3, CK7, CK19, CK20, CEA, CA19‐9, p53, KIT, TTF‐1, CDX2, MUC1, MUC2, MUC5AC and MUC6. In conclusion, the author reported a projected FNH. The DR of the FNH showed atypical features such as small cells and hyperchromatic nuclei. The DR assumed features of ductal plate‐like structures. KIT was positive in the DR in the FNH, suggesting that the cells of DR are liver stem cells, and proliferation of these cells take features of ductal plate‐like structures, similar to embryonic biliary development. MUC apomucins are negative in the DR.
S-Nitrosylation Signaling in
Escherichia coli
Authors: Gusarov Ivan , Nudler Evgeny
Published: June 2012

Bacteria respond to nitric oxide and oxygen in their environment using two different posttranslational modifications of the same transcription factor to promote expression of protective genes specific to each gas.