bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Fetal Cells from the Maternal Circulation by Microarray Gene Expression Analysis - Could the Extravillous Trophoblasts Be a Target for Future Cell-Based Non-Invasive Prenatal Diagnosis?
Authors: Hatt Lotte , Brinch Marie , Singh Ripudaman , Møller Kristine , Lauridsen Rune Hoff , Uldbjerg Niels , Huppertz Berthold , Christensen Britta , Kølvraa Steen
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Circulating fetal cells in maternal blood provide a tool for risk-free, non-invasive prenatal diagnosis. However, fetal cells in the maternal circulation are scarce, and to effectively isolate enough of them for reliable diagnostics, it is crucial to know which fetal cell type(s) should be targeted. Materials and Methods: Fetal cells were enriched from maternal blood by magnetic-activated cell sorting using the endothelial cell marker CD105 and identified by XY fluorescence in situ hybridization. Expression pattern was compared between fetal cells and maternal blood cells using stem cell microarray analysis. Results: 39 genes were identified as candidates for unique fetal cell markers. More than half of these are genes known to be expressed in the placenta, especially in extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs). Immunohistochemical staining of placental tissue confirmed CD105 staining in EVTs and 76% of fetal cells enriched by CD105 were found to be cytokeratin-positive. Discussion: The unique combination of mesodermal (CD105) and ectodermal (cytokeratin) markers in EVTs could be a potential marker set for cell enrichment of this cell type in maternal blood and could be the basis for future cell-based non-invasive prenatal diagnosis.
Two lectotypifications and a new combination in Calendula (Asteraceae) for Flora Iberica
Authors: Silveira Paulo Cardoso , Gonçalves Ana Carla Ramos da Silva , Santos Conceição , Paiva Jorge
Published: November 2013

This paper presents a new combination, Calendula suffruticosa subsp. cinerea, and two lectotypifications, for Calendula suffruticosa subsp. tomentosa and Calendula suffruticosa subsp. cinerea, in the course of a taxonomic revision for Flora Iberica. Explanations about the taxonomic concept here adopted are also provided.
Latitudinal patterns in the diversity of two subgenera of the genus Daphnia O.F. Müller (Crustacea: Cladocera: Daphniidae)
Authors: POPOVA EKATERINA Y. , KOTOV ALEXEY A.
Published: November 2013

Daphnia O.F. Müller (Crustacea: Cladocera: Daphniidae) is an important model in biology. It was concluded earlier that subgenus Daphnia s.str. occurs mainly in the northern hemisphere, subgenus Daphnia (Ctenodaphnia) in the southern hemisphere, which could suggest that: (1) the subgeneric differentiation is correlated with the Laurasia-Gondwanaland subdivision and (2) D. (Ctenodaphnia) is a taxon of Gondwanian origin. Some authors even discussed mechanisms of maintaince of the “ancient subgeneric north-south split”, regarding such a pattern as paradoxical. But both molecular clock calculations and fossils of both subgenera from the Jurassic/Cretaceous boundary of Mongolia compromise such ideas and suggest an earlier, Pangaean, differentiation of the subgenera.        We discuss the distribution of Daphnia worldwide based on recent literature. Our analysis covers literature data on all described and on undescribed taxa revealed by genetical methods. Distributional data were associated with five main zones: southern cold (I), southern temperate (II), tropical (III), northern temperate (IV), and northern cold (V) zone. We found no “subgeneric north-south split”: the distribution of Daphnia s.str. is dissymmetric between the hemispheres (antipolar), while that of Ctenodaphnia is sub-symmetric (bipolar). We suggest that both patterns are not of Mesozoic, but of Cenozoic origin. Mesozoic differentiation of the subgenera does not contradict a recent origin of the extant species, as found in e.g. Notostraca. A superficially attractive hypothesis about a Gondwanian origin of a taxon (Daphnia (Ctenodaphnia)) therefore did not pass the test of the fossil records. In addition, we agree with the opinion that an antipolar is only a variant of a bipolar pattern, as a result of an extinction in the southern hemisphere, and that these patterns are mid-late Cenozoic instead of Mesozoic.
Tropical Biases in CMIP5 Multimodel Ensemble: The Excessive Equatorial Pacific Cold Tongue and Double ITCZ Problems*
Authors: Li Gen , Xie Shang-Ping
Published: November 2013

Errors of coupled general circulation models (CGCMs) limit their utility for climate prediction and projection. Origins of and feedback for tropical biases are investigated in the historical climate simulations of 18 CGCMs from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5), together with the available Atmospheric Model Intercomparison Project (AMIP) simulations. Based on an intermodel empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis of tropical Pacific precipitation, the excessive equatorial Pacific cold tongue and double intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) stand out as the most prominent errors of the current generation of CGCMs. The comparison of CMIP–AMIP pairs enables us to identify whether a given type of errors originates from atmospheric models. The equatorial Pacific cold tongue bias is associated with deficient precipitation and surface easterly wind biases in the western half of the basin in CGCMs, but these errors are absent in atmosphere-only models, indicating that the errors arise from the interaction with the ocean via Bjerknes feedback. For the double ITCZ problem, excessive precipitation south of the equator correlates well with excessive downward solar radiation in the Southern Hemisphere (SH) midlatitudes, an error traced back to atmospheric model simulations of cloud during austral spring and summer. This extratropical forcing of the ITCZ displacements is mediated by tropical ocean–atmosphere interaction and is consistent with recent studies of ocean–atmospheric energy transport balance.
The Doppler Aerosol Wind (DAWN) Airborne, Wind-Profiling Coherent-Detection Lidar System: Overview and Preliminary Flight Results
Authors: Kavaya Michael J. , Beyon Jeffrey Y. , Koch Grady J. , Petros Mulugeta , Petzar Paul J. , Singh Upendra N. , Trieu Bo C. , Yu Jirong
Published: November 2013

The first airborne wind measurements of a pulsed, 2-μm solid-state, high-energy, wind-profiling lidar system for airborne measurements are presented. The laser pulse energy is the highest to date in an eye-safe airborne wind lidar system. This energy, the 10-Hz laser pulse rate, the 15-cm receiver diameter, and dual-balanced coherent detection together have the potential to provide much-improved lidar sensitivity to low aerosol backscatter levels compared to earlier airborne-pulsed coherent lidar wind systems. Problems with a laser-burned telescope secondary mirror prevented a full demonstration of the lidar’s capability, but the hardware, algorithms, and software were nevertheless all validated. A lidar description, relevant theory, and preliminary results of flight measurements are presented.
Climate-Sensitive Decisions and Time Frames: A Cross-Sectoral Analysis of Information Pathways in the Carolinas
Authors: Lackstrom Kirsten , Kettle Nathan P. , Haywood Benjamin , Dow Kirstin
Published: November 2013

This paper analyzes the information dissemination pathways that support climate-sensitive decisions in North and South Carolina. The study draws from over 100 online questionnaires and follow-up interviews with leaders in the forestry, natural resources management, planning and preparedness, tourism and recreation, and water supply management sectors. Participants represented subregions within each state, different types of organizations, and organizations working at different geographic scales. The cross-sector comparison demonstrates diverse information uses across multiple time horizons and a wide range of sector-specific needs and factors that influence how and where decision makers obtain climate information. It builds upon previous research regarding climate decision making by providing a comprehensive view of the patterns of information exchange within a given region. Although all sectors draw from a common pool of federal agencies for historical and current climate data, participants consider sector-specific and local sources to be their key climate information providers. Information obtained through these sources is more likely to be trusted, accessible, and relevant for decision making. Furthermore, information sharing is largely facilitated via subregional networks, and accessing relationships with colleagues and local agency personnel is a critical component of this process. This study provides a more nuanced understanding of how climate information use varies across sectors and time frames and the decentralized nature of existing networks. These findings have important implications for future efforts to provide climate decision support to state- and local-level decision makers and highlight the need for networks and processes that meet diverse regional and sector concerns and contexts.
Does Structure of Content Delivery or Degree of Professional Development Support Matter for Student Reading Growth in High-Poverty Settings?
Authors: Amendum Steven J. , Fitzgerald Jill
Published: November 2013

We addressed whether the degree of structure of reading content delivery to the children or degree of professional development support for the teachers was related to kindergarten through second-grade students’ 2-year reading growth in high-poverty, low-performing schools. There were four categories of data sources: (a) classroom, curriculum-based, reading assessments; (b) principal questionnaires; (c) information about staff development and implementation of reading-instruction reform; and (d) demographic information. Six reading variables were created from the classroom reading assessments. Two variables were created from staff development logs and school-based reading-instruction implementation plans—“degree to which content delivery to children was structured” and “degree to which teachers were supported in learning the instructional structure and content.” Control variables such as student poverty status and percentage of African American students in the school were created from the principal questionnaire and demographic data. Hierarchical linear models were used. Main conclusions were as follows: (a) Less structured content delivery overshadowed more structured delivery for student growth, but there was added value of being in schools with more characteristics associated with effectiveness. (b) Students who made the greatest growth were in schools with higher support for teachers. But in low-support settings, students made more growth if they were in schools with more characteristics associated with school effectiveness. (c) The degree of structure of content delivery and degree of professional development support were significantly related to growth in phonics knowledge, but not to growth in other reading subprocesses.
Audit of a State-wide store and forward teledermatology service in Australia
Authors: Biscak Terri M , Eley Robert , Manoharan Shobhan , Sinnott Michael , Soyer H Peter
Published: November 2013

In 2008, the Skin Emergency Telemedicine Service was established at the Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH) in Brisbane. We conducted an audit by evaluating all email communication during 2012, and administering a clinician questionnaire. A total of 167 cases were discussed via 685 email communications (46 being in-house PAH referrals). The highest number of external referrals came from Mt Isa (27%), located 1200 km from the nearest dermatology clinic, with a further 25% sent from centres located 50-600 km from a clinic. The main referring condition was rash (65%), followed by skin lesions (13%). The most commonly provided telemedicine diagnoses were dermatitis/eczema (23%), infection (20%) and drug eruption (17%). Most external referrals received a reply within 3 hours of the enquiry. Junior doctors (2nd-4th postgraduate year) represented the majority of referring clinicians (62% of questionnaire respondents). There were 111 potential questionnaire recipients. Responses were received from 34 clinicians, a response rate of 31%. Overall 100% of respondents stated that the service was useful to them and 97% said they would use it again in the future with one respondent stating ‘possibly’. It seems likely that teledermatology will serve an important role in the provision of healthcare to Queensland, and other remote Australian communities in the future.
Case study: the Interact home telehealth project
Authors: Katalinic Owen , Young Ashley , Doolan David
Published: November 2013

Two home telehealth technologies (the Intel Health Guide and the Apple iPad) were trialled by four clinical services of the Hunter New England Local Health District. The iPad was selected by the Paediatric Palliative Care Service, the Stroke Service and the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service. The Intel Health Guide was selected by the Cardiac Coaching Service. The telehealth devices were loaned to a total of 102 patients for different lengths of time, depending on clinical needs, but typically for about 3 months. A total of 42 clinicians were involved. During the trial, 16 technical problems were recorded and resolved, most concerning problems with connectivity. Nonetheless, the use of home telehealth technologies was positively received by clinicians, management and patients alike. Telehealth is now being integrated into the standard practices of the health district.
The introduction of web-based video-consultation in a paediatric acute care setting
Authors: Jury Susan C , Walker Amanda M , Kornberg Andrew J
Published: November 2013

The Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) in Melbourne has been providing web-based video-consultations for a range of paediatric sub-specialties since 2011. There were 346 video-consultations in the first 16 months, from a total of 65 clinicians. Most teleconsultations were with the family at home. Generally, video-consultation was used for follow-up, after at least one face-to-face visit. A total of 132 users (specialist and regional clinicians, patients and families) responded to an online survey. The major reason for both clinicians and families participating in telehealth was the savings in families' travel time. Key factors for the successful implementation of telehealth at the RCH include: a clear organisational vision; simple web-based technology; clinician ownership; sustained support. The RCH experience suggests that telehealth is suitable for both simple and highly complex paediatric patients.
On coupled fixed point results in asymmetric G-metric spaces
Authors: Agarwal Ravi P , Kadelburg Zoran , Radenović Stojan
Published: November 2013

Using a combination of techniques introduced by Jleli and Samet (Fixed Point Theory Appl. 2012:210, 2012) and Samet et al. (Int. J. Anal. 2013:917158, 2013) on the one hand, and by Kadelburg et al. (Bull. Math. Anal. Appl. 4:51-63, 2012) on the other hand, we show that several coupled fixed point results in (ordered) G-metric spaces obtained recently are simple consequences of the respective standard (ordered) metric results. The technique can be applied both in symmetric and asymmetric cases. Moreover, we show by an example that the results thus obtained are usually stronger than those presented in the literature.

MSC:47H10, 54H25.
The increase of vasomotor tone avoids the ability of the dynamic preload indicators to estimate fluid responsiveness
Authors: Bouchacourt Juan P , Riva Juan A , Grignola Juan C
Published: November 2013

Background

The use of vasoconstrictor can affect the dynamic indices to predict fluid responsiveness. We investigate the effects of an increase of vascular tone on dynamic variables of fluid responsiveness in a rabbit model of hemorrhage, and to examine the ability of the arterial pressure surrogates dynamic indices to track systolic volume variation (SVV) during hypovolemia under increased vasomotor tone.

Methods

Eighteen anesthetized and mechanically ventilated rabbits were studied during normovolemia (BL) and after blood progressive removal (15 mL/kg, BW). Other two sets of data were obtained during PHE infusion with normovolemia (BL + PHE) and during hypovolemia (BW + PHE). We measured central venous and left ventricular (LV) pressures and infra diaphragmatic aortic blood flow (AoF) and pressure. Pulse pressure variation (PPV), systolic pressure variation (SPV) and SVV were estimated manually by the variation of beat-to-beat PP, SP and SV, respectively. We also calculated PPVapnea as 100 × (PPmax-PPmin)/PP during apnea. The vasomotor tone was estimated by total peripheral resistance (TPR = mean aortic pressure/mean AoF), dynamic arterial elastance (Eadyn = PPV/SVV) and arterial compliance (C = SV/PP). We assessed LV preload by LV end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP). We compared the trending abilities between SVV and pressure surrogate indices using four-quadrant plots and polar plots.

Results

Baseline PPV, SPV, PPVapnea, and SVV increased significantly during hemorrhage, with a decrease of AoF (P < 0.05). PHE induced significant TPR and Eadyn increase and C decrease in bled animals, and a further decrease in AoF with a significant decrease of all dynamic indices. There was a significant correlation between SVV and PPV, PPVapnea and SPV in normal vasomotor tone (r2 ≥ 0.5). The concordance rate was 91%, 95% and 76% between SVV and PPV, PPVapnea and SPV, respectively, in accordance with the polar plot analysis. During PHE infusion, there was no correlation between SVV and its surrogates, and both four-quadrant plot and polar plot showed poor trending.

Conclusion

In this animal model of hemorrhage and increased vasomotor tone induced by phenylephrine the ability of dynamic indices to predict fluid responsiveness seems to be impaired, masking the true fluid loss. Moreover, the arterial pressure surrogates have not the reliable trending ability against SVV.
Increased leptin and A-FABP levels in relapsing and progressive forms of MS
Authors: Messina Silvia , Vargas-Lowy David , Musallam Alexander , Healy Brian C , Kivisakk Pia , Gandhi Roopali , Bove Riley , Gholipour Taha , Khoury Samia , Weiner Howard L , Chitnis Tanuja
Published: November 2013

Background

Leptin and adipocyte-fatty acid binding protein (A-FABP) are produced by white adipose tissue and may play a role in chronic inflammation in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). To assess leptin and A-FABP in relapsing and progressive forms of MS.

Methods

Adipokine levels were measured in untreated adult relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), secondary progressive MS (SPMS), primary progressive MS (PPMS) and Healthy control (HC). Pediatric-onset MS (POMS) and pediatric healthy controls (PHC) were also assessed. Leptin and A-FABP levels were measured in serum by ELISA. Groups were compared using linear mixed-effects model.

Results

Excluding two patients with Body Mass Index (BMI) > 50, a significant difference in leptin level was found between RRMS and HC controlling for age (p = 0.007), SPMS and HC controlling for age alone (p = 0.002), or age and BMI (p = 0.007). A-FABP levels were higher in SPMS than HC (p = 0.007), controlling for age and BMI. Differences in A-FABP levels between POMS and PHC was observed after controlling for age (p = 0.019), but not when BMI was added to the model (p = 0.081).

Conclusion

Leptin and A-FABP levels are highest in SPMS compared to HC, suggesting a role in pathogenesis of this disease subtype. A-FABP levels are increased in POMS patients and may play a role in the early stages of disease.
Novel angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory peptides derived from an edible mushroom, Pleurotus cystidiosus O.K. Miller identified by LC-MS/MS
Authors: Lau Ching Ching , Abdullah Noorlidah , Shuib Adawiyah Suriza
Published: November 2013

Background

Angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have been reported to reduce mortality in patients with hypertension. Compared to chemosynthetic drugs, ACE inhibitors derived from natural sources such as food proteins are believed to be safer for consumption and to have fewer adverse effects. Some edible mushrooms have been reported to significantly reduce blood pressure after oral administration. In addition, mushrooms are known to be rich in protein content. This makes them a potential source of ACE inhibitory peptides. Hence, the objective of the current study was to isolate and characterise ACE inhibitory peptides from an edible mushroom, Pleurotus cystidiosus.

Methods

ACE inhibitory proteins were isolated from P. cystidiosus based on the bioassay guided purification steps, i.e. ammonium sulphate precipitation, reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography and size exclusion chromatography. Active fraction was then analysed by LC-MS/MS and potential ACE inhibitory peptides identified were chemically synthesized. Effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestions on the ACE inhibitory activity of the peptides and their inhibition patterns were evaluated.

Results

Two potential ACE inhibitory peptides, AHEPVK and GPSMR were identified from P. cystidiosus with molecular masses of 679.53 and 546.36 Da, respectively. Both peptides exhibited potentially high ACE inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 62.8 and 277.5 μM, respectively. SEC chromatograms and BIOPEP analysis of these peptides revealed that the peptide sequence of the hexapeptide, AHEPVK, was stable throughout gastrointestinal digestion. The pentapeptide, GPSMR, was hydrolysed after digestion and it was predicted to release a dipeptide ACE inhibitor, GP, from its precursor. The Lineweaver-Burk plot of AHEPVK showed that this potent and stable ACE inhibitor has a competitive inhibitory effect against ACE.

Conclusion

The present study indicated that the peptides from P. cystidiosus could be potential ACE inhibitors. Although these peptides had lower ACE inhibitory activity compared to commercial antihypertensive drugs, they are derived from mushroom which could be easily obtained and should have no side effects. Further in vivo studies can be carried out to reveal the clear mechanism of ACE inhibition by these peptides.
The anti-erbB3 antibody MM-121/SAR256212 in combination with trastuzumab exerts potent antitumor activity against trastuzumab-resistant breast cancer cells
Authors: Huang Jingcao , Wang Shuiliang , Lyu Hui , Cai Bo , Yang XiaoHe , Wang Jianxiang , Liu Bolin
Published: November 2013

Background

Elevated expression of erbB3 receptor has been reported to induce resistance to therapeutic agents, including trastuzumab in erbB2-overexpressing breast cancer. Our recent studies indicate that erbB3 interacts with both erbB2 and IGF-1 receptor to form a heterotrimeric complex in trastuzumab-resistant breast cancer cells. Herein, we investigate the antitumor activity of MM-121/SAR256212, a fully human anti-erbB3 antibody (Ab), against two erbB2-overexpressing breast cancer cell lines resistant to trastuzumab.

Methods

MTS-based proliferation assays were used to determine cell viability upon treatment of trastuzumab and/or MM-121/SAR256212. Cell cycle progression was examined by flow cytometric analysis. Western blot analyses were performed to determine the expression and activation of proteins. Tumor xenografts were established by inoculation of the trastuzumab-resistant BT474-HR20 cells into nude mice. The tumor-bearing mice were treated with trastuzumab and/or MM-121/SAR256212 via i.p injection to determine the Abs’ antitumor activity. Immunohistochemical analyses were carried out to study the Abs’ inhibitory effects on tumor cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis in vivo.

Results

MM-121 significantly enhanced trastuzumab-induced growth inhibition in two sensitive and two resistant breast cancer cell lines. MM-121 in combination with trastuzumab resulted in a dramatic reduction of phosphorylated erbB3 (P-erbB3) and Akt (P-Akt) in the in vitro studies. MM-121 combined with trastuzumab did not induce apoptosis in the trastuzumab-resistant cell lines under our cell culture condition, rather induced cell cycle G1 arrest mainly associated with the upregulation of p27kip1. Interestingly, in the tumor xenograft model established from the trastuzumab-resistant cells, MM-121 in combination with trastuzumab as compared to either agent alone dramatically inhibited tumor growth correlated with a significant reduction of Ki67 staining and increase of cleaved caspase-3 in the tumor tissues.

Conclusions

The combination of MM-121 and trastuzumab not only inhibits erbB2-overexpressing breast cancer cell proliferation, but also promotes the otherwise trastuzumab-resistant cells undergoing apoptosis in an in vivo xenografts model. Thus, MM-121 exhibits potent antitumor activity when combined with trastuzumab under the studied conditions. Our data suggest that further studies regarding the suitability of MM-121 for treatment of breast cancer patients whose tumors overexpress erbB2 and become resistant to trastuzumab may be warranted.
The patient experience with fatigue and content validity of a measure to assess fatigue severity: qualitative research in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS)
Authors: Naegeli April N , Flood Emuella , Tucker Jennifer , Devlen Jennifer , Edson-Heredia Emily
Published: November 2013

Background

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by inflammation of the spine and large joints. Fatigue is a common symptom that many AS patients find significantly impacts their health-related quality of life. The Worst Fatigue – Numeric Rating Scale (WF-NRS) assesses the severity of this symptom during the previous 24-hour period. The objective of this study was to perform qualitative research to support the development and content validity of the WF-NRS.

Methods

Patients with AS were recruited from clinical sites in the U.S. for a qualitative study which first entailed concept elicitation interviews to gain understanding of the patients’ experience with AS and fatigue. Subsequently, cognitive debriefing interviews were undertaken to assess the understandability, clarity, and appropriateness from the patient’s perspective, of the content of a measure of fatigue severity.

Results

Thirteen patients with AS participated in concept elicitation interviews and cognitive debriefing of the Brief Fatigue Inventory (BFI) fatigue severity subscale. The WF-NRS was developed from the worst fatigue item of the BFI as patients generally reported it to be understandable and covered an important concept, the completion instructions were modified, but the response scale remained as it was familiar and readily completed, and the recall period was appropriate.

Conclusions

Patient responses resulted in the development of and supported the content validity of the WF-NRS. Further quantitative evaluation of the WF-NRS is warranted in order to assess its psychometric properties and confirm its usefulness as a clinical trial tool.
Adult self-reported and objectively monitored physical activity and sedentary behavior: NHANES 2005–2006
Authors: Schuna John M , Johnson William D , Tudor-Locke Catrine
Published: November 2013

Background

It remains unclear what people are attempting to communicate, in terms of objectively monitored behavior, when describing their physical activity and sedentary behavior through self-report. The purpose of this study was to examine various objectively monitored accelerometer variables (e.g., moderate-to-vigorous physical activity [MVPA], steps/day, sedentary time, etc.) across categories of self-reported MVPA (< 150 vs. ≥ 150 minutes/week), usual occupational/domestic activity (UODA; “mostly sitting” vs. “stand, walk, lift, or carry”), and leisure-time sedentary behavior (LTSB; ≥ 3 vs. < 3 hours/day) in a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults (≥ 20 years).

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of 3,725 participants from the 2005–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) who provided relevant questionnaire responses and ≥ 1 day of valid accelerometer data. Descriptive statistics were computed for various objectively monitored accelerometer variables across categories of self-reported MVPA, UODA, and LTSB. Pairwise comparisons were conducted to examine differences in objectively monitored behavior between categories of self-reported MVPA, UODA, and LTSB.

Results

On average, adults reporting compliance with physical activity guidelines (≥ 150 minutes/week of MVPA) accumulated more objectively measured physical activity and similar amounts of sedentary time relative to those reporting not achieving guidelines. Adults reporting their daily UODA as “mostly sitting” or accruing ≥ 3 hours/day of LTSB accumulated less objectively monitored physical activity and more sedentary time than those who described their UODA as “stand, walk, lift, or carry” or accrued < 3 hours/day of LTSB. The most active cross-classified category (7,935 steps/day; ≥ 150 minutes/week of self-reported MVPA, “stand, walk, lift, or carry” UODA, and < 3 hours/day of LTSB) accumulated more than twice as many daily steps as the least active cross-classified category (3,532 steps/day; < 150 minutes/week of self-reported MVPA, “mostly sitting” UODA, and ≥ 3 hours/day of LTSB).

Conclusions

A number of objectively monitored physical activity indicators varied significantly between self-reported MVPA, UODA, and LTSB categories, while objectively monitored sedentary time only varied between UODA and LTSB categories. Cross-classifications of self-reported MVPA, UODA, and LTSB responses depict a greater range of physical activity than viewing dichotomous responses for these variables one-at-a-time.
Association of autoantibodies against the M2-muscarinic receptor with perinatal outcomes in women with severe preeclampsia
Authors: Li Yanfang , Ma Guiling , Zhang Zhiyong , Yue Yin , Yuan Yuting , Wang Yidan , Miao Guobin , Zhang Lin
Published: November 2013

Background

The goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that autoantibodies against M2-muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M2-AAB) are associated with severe preeclampsia and increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a case–control study comparing 60 women with severe preeclampsia to 60 women with normal pregnancy and 60 non-pregnant controls. A peptide, corresponding to amino acid sequences of the second extracellular loops of the M2 receptor, was synthesized as antigen to test for the presence of autoantibodies, using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The frequency and titer of M2-AAB were compared in the 3 groups. The risk of adverse perinatal outcomes among women with severe preeclampsia in the presence of M2-AAB was estimated.

Results

M2-AAB were positive in 31.7% (19/60) of patients with severe preeclampsia, in 10.0% (6/60) (p = 0.006) of normal pregnant women and in 8.3% (5/60) (p = 0.002) of non-pregnant controls. The presence of M2-AAB was associated with increased risk of adverse pregnancy complications (OR, 3.6; 95%CI, 1.0-12.6; p = 0.048), fetal growth restriction (OR, 6.8; 95% CI, 2.0-23.0; p = 0.002), fetal distress (OR, 6.7; 95% CI, 1.7-26.6; p = 0.007), low Apgar score (OR, 5.3; 95% CI, 1.4-20.7; p = 0.017), and perinatal death (OR, 4.3; 95% CI, 1.0-17.6; p = 0.044) among women with severe preeclampsia.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates, for the first time, an increase in M2-AAB in patients with severe preeclampsia. Women with severe preeclampsia who are M2-AAB positive are at increased risk for neonatal mortality and morbidity. We posit that M2-AAB may be involved in the pathogenesis of severe preeclampsia.
Re-assessment of selected Baby-Friendly maternity facilities in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Nii Okai Aryeetey Richmond , Antwi Comfort Liousa
Published: November 2013

Background

The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) has been implemented in Ghana since 1995. At the end of 2011, about 325 maternity facilities in Ghana had been designated Baby Friendly. However, none had been re-assessed for adherence to the Ten Steps to successful breastfeeding (Ten Steps). The current study re-assessed six maternity facilities in Accra for adherence to the Ten Steps and the International Code of Marketing of breast milk substitutes (the Code).

Methods

Three independent assessors performed the re-assessment using the revised WHO/UNICEF external re-assessment tool (ERT) between April and June, 2011. All sections of the ERT were implemented, except for the HIV/infant feeding section. Assessors interviewed 90 clinical staff of the facilities, 60 pregnant women, and 150 women who had given birth and waiting to be discharged from the hospital. Additionally, observations were completed on neonate feeding and compliance with the Code. Data was analyzed to assess adherence to the Ten Steps and the Code.

Results

In 2010, the six facilities recorded a total of 26,339 deliveries. At discharge, the weighted exclusive breastfeeding rate was 93.8%. None of the facilities adhered completely to the Ten Steps. Overall, the rate of adherence to the Ten Steps was 42% (range = 30 - 70%). No facility met the criteria for Steps One and Two. Only Step Seven was adhered to by all facilities. Overall compliance with the Code was about 54%. Trained staff attrition, high client-staff ratios, inadequate in-service training for new staff, and inadequate support for regional and national program monitoring were identified as barriers to adherence.

Conclusion

Poor adherence to Baby-Friendly practices in designated BFHI facilities was observed in urban Accra. Renewed efforts to support monitoring of designated facilities is recommended.
A novel model mouth system for evaluation of In Vitrorelease of nicotine from moist snuff
Authors: Li Peng , Zhang Jie , Sun Shi-Hao , Xie Jian-Ping , Zong Yong-Li
Published: November 2013

Background

Pouch moist snuff, as a form of oral smokeless tobacco products, is becoming increasingly popular in North America, Scandinavia (where it is known as Snus), South Asia and parts of Africa. User usually places a pouch between the upper jaw and cheek to obtain euphoria from tobacco, leading to partial intake of tobacco constituents. To evaluate user exposure to tobacco, an approach with a novel model mouth system was developed and applied to evaluate release of nicotine from the pouch.

Results

A novel model mouth system has been developed to evaluate release behavior of tobacco constituents in pouch moist snuff. The system consists of the release medium reservoir module, the flow speed control module, the temperature control module, nicotine release module, and release solution collection module, and simulates buccal condition in terms of temperature, saliva compositions, and the rate of saliva production, etc. Artificial saliva was used as the release medium to evaluate release of nicotine in pouch moist snuff. The optimized test condition was that the release temperature of 37°C and the flow rate performed at 0.2 mL min-1 in the first 5 min and 0.1 mL min-1 in the next 55 min. The performance of the model mouth system was compared with in vivo data of nicotine release in human volunteers. Data from 23 brands of moist snuff indicated that nicotine release rates increased with extraction time and approximately 60-90% of nicotine was released after 30 min of extraction in most of the samples, and the release behavior of nicotine was affected by product weights, nicotine concentration, and product pH, etc.

Conclusion

The model mouth system can be used to evaluate the release behavior of constituents in pouch moist snuff, especially those directly related to human health such as nicotine and tobacco specific nitrosamine (TSNA), etc. This indicated that the system is an alternative tool to evaluate user exposure to tobacco. With further testing and validation, the model mouth system can be applied in risk evaluation of smokeless tobacco products.
A multiple objective approach for joint ordering and pricing planning problem with stochastic lead times
Authors: Hosseini Zeinab , Ghasemy Yaghin Reza , Esmaeili Maryam
Published: November 2013

The integration of marketing and demand with logistics and inventories (supply side of companies) may cause multiple improvements; it can revolutionize the management of the revenue of rental companies, hotels, and airlines. In this paper, we develop a multi-objective pricing-inventory model for a retailer. Maximizing the retailer's profit and the service level are the objectives, and shortage is allowed. We present the model under stochastic lead time with uniform and exponential distributions. Since pricing is important and influences demand, the demand is considered as a general function of price. The multiple-objective optimization model is solved using the weighting method as well as the L-P metric method. Concerning the properties of a nonlinear model, a genetic algorithm is taken into account to find the optimal solutions for the selling price, lot size, and reorder point. Finally, numerical examples with sensitivity analysis regarding key parameters are provided.
Long-term tolerability and maintenance of therapeutic response to sodium oxybate in an open-label extension study in patients with fibromyalgia
Authors: Spaeth Michael , Alegre Cayetano , Perrot Serge , Wang Youyu Grace , Guinta Diane R , Alvarez-Horine Sarah , Russell Irwin Jon ,   the Sodium Oxybate Fibromyalgia Study Group
Published: November 2013

Introduction

The long-term safety and therapeutic response of sodium oxybate (SXB) in fibromyalgia syndrome (FM) patients were assessed for a combined period of up to 1 year in a prospective, multicenter, open-label, extension study in patients completing 1 of 2 phase 3 randomized, double-blind, controlled, 14-week trials that examined the efficacy and safety of SXB 4.5 g, SXB 6 g, and placebo for treatment of FM.

Methods

This extension study comprised an additional 38 weeks of treatment and was carried out at 130 clinical sites in 7 countries. Initial entry criteria for the previous 2 double-blind clinical trials required that patients aged ≥ 18 years met the American College of Rheumatology 1990 criteria for FM, had a body mass index (BMI) < 40 kg/m2, and had a score ≥ 50 on a 100-mm pain visual analog scale (VAS) at baseline. All patients began treatment in the extension study with SXB 4.5 g/night (administered in 2 equally divided doses) for at least 1 week, followed by possible serial 1.5 g/night dose increases to 9 g/night (maximum) or reductions to 4.5 g/night (minimum).

Results

Of the 560 FM patients enrolled in this extension study, 319 (57.0%) completed the study. The main reason for early discontinuation was adverse events (AEs; 23.0% of patients). Patients were primarily middle-aged (mean 46.9 ± 10.8 years), female (91.1%), white (91.4%), with a mean duration of FM symptoms of 9.9 ± 8.7 years. Serious AEs were experienced by 3.6% of patients. The most frequently reported AEs (incidence ≥ 5% at any dose or overall) were nausea, headache, dizziness, nasopharyngitis, vomiting, sinusitis, diarrhea, anxiety, insomnia, influenza, somnolence, upper respiratory tract infection, muscle spasms, urinary tract infection, and gastroenteritis viral. Maintenance of SXB therapeutic response was demonstrated with continued improvement from controlled-study baseline in pain VAS, Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) total scores, and other measures. Responder analyses showed that 68.8% of patients achieved ≥ 30% reduction in pain VAS and 69.7% achieved ≥ 30% reduction in FIQ total score at study endpoint.

Conclusions

The long-term safety profile of SXB in FM patients was similar to that in the previously reported controlled clinical trials. Improvement in pain and other FM clinical domains was maintained during long-term use.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00423605.
Infusion of 2.5 meq/min of lactic acid minimally increases CO2 production compared to an isocaloric glucose infusion in healthy anesthetized, mechanically ventilated pigs
Authors: Zanella Alberto , Giani Marco , Redaelli Sara , Mangili Paolo , Scaravilli Vittorio , Ormas Valentina , Costanzi Marco , Albertini Mariangela , Bellani Giacomo , Patroniti Nicolò , Pesenti Antonio
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Blood acidification by lactic acid infusion converts bicarbonate to CO2. This effect can be exploited to increase the transmembrane PCO2 gradient of an extracorporeal membrane lung, resulting in a significant increase of extracorporeal CO2 removal. Lactic acid, however, is an energetic substrate and its metabolism might increase total body CO2 production (VCO2), limiting the potential beneficial effects of this technique. The aim of our study was to compare VCO during isocaloric infusion of lactic acid or glucose.

Methods

Six pigs (45±5 kg) were sedated and mechanically ventilated. Estimated caloric needs were 2,300–2,400 Kcal/die (95 to 100 Kcal/h). A sequence of two steps lasting four hours each was performed: 1) Glucose, 97 kcal/h were administered as 50% glucose solution, and 2) Lactic Acid, approximately 48.5 kcal/h were administered as lactic acid and approximately 48.5 kcal/h as 50% glucose solution. This sequence was repeated three times with two-hour intervals. Every hour VCO, arterial blood gases and lactate were measured. Blood glucose level was kept constant by titrating an insulin infusion, ventilation was adjusted to maintain arterial PCO2 at 50 mmHg, a normal value for our animal model.

Results

During Lactic Acid steps VCO2 increased less than 5% compared to the Glucose steps (282 vs. 269 ml/min, P<0.05); blood glucose did not differ between the two groups (respectively 101 ± 12 vs. 103±8 mg/dl). Arterial lactate was always lower than 3 mmol/L. Arterial pH was lower during Lactic Acid steps (7.422 vs. 7.445, P<0.05).

Conclusions

Replacing 50% of the caloric input with lactic acid increased total CO2 production by less than 5% compared to an equal caloric load provided entirely by a 50% glucose solution.
Molecular Dynamics and Principal Component Analysis for a Self-assembled Nanocube in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Mashiko Takako , Yamada Kenta , Kojima Tatsuo , Hiraoka Shuichi , Nagashima Umpei , Tachikawa Masanori
Published: November 2013

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in aqueous solution were performed for hexameric nanocubes of methylated (16) and demethylated (26) gear-shaped amphiphiles. To elucidate the difference between these nanocubes, the principal component analysis for the MD simulation results in aqueous solution and the normal mode analysis in the gas phase were also applied to the nanocube, 16 and 26. The structural fluctuation of the lowest-frequency motion on 26 is larger than that on 16 around the triple π stacking of 3-pyridyl groups. For the structural stability and fluctuation of the nanocube, interactions among the constituent gear-shaped molecules play more important roles than the solvophobic effect due to solvent molecules.
Study of Challenging Calcium Alkoxides in Solution by Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (Part 1)
Authors: Peruzzo Valentina , Chiurato Matteo Andrea , Tomasin Patrizia , Traldi Pietro , Favaro Monica
Published: November 2013

Electrospray ionization was applied on calcium alkoxides studying the most suitable operative conditions for their detection/identification. To reach this aim, calcium methoxide and ethylate were obtained by two different synthetic pathways, in order to understand their possible different aggregation states. The reaction mixture shows the presence of a supernatant and of a precipitate poorly soluble in most organic solvents. The purpose of this preliminary study is to understand the qualitative differences between the precipitated species and the ones in solution by analyzing both of them with the same analytical method. The electrospray ionization (ESI) operating conditions (voltages, temperatures, solvents) allow not only the detection of single species but also the study of clusters present in solution. Particular attention was paid to establishing the role of ESI conditions in the formation of the detected species. Experiments performed at different sprayer voltages (1 kV, 2 kV, 3 kV and 4 kV) proved that ESI does not perturbate the equilibria present in the original solution, demonstrating that the technique can be a useful tool to achieve information on this class of compounds.
Study of Fragmentation Behavior of Amadori Rearrangement Products in Lysine-Containing Peptide Model by Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Ruan Eric D. , Wang Hui , Ruan Yuanyuan , Juárez Manuel
Published: November 2013

Protein and peptide glycation with reducing sugars through Maillard reaction is recognized as one of the most critical and fundamental reactions in food and in the human body. Amadori rearrangement products (ARPs) are formed at the initial stage of Maillard reaction and then may be converted into intermediate and advanced glycation products. We report here that using electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) to directly and rapidly characterize fragmentation behavior of ARPs in a lysine-containing peptide—reducing sugars unambiguously model and identify the modification sites in glycated tri- and tetra-peptides. Tandem mass spectrometry (MS2) results show that the sugar moiety was preferentially fragmented, whereby the neutral loss of small molecules, such as 18 Da (–H2O), 36 Da (–2 × H2O), 54 Da (–3 × H2O), 84 Da (–H2O–HCOH) and 162 Da from monosaccharide (glucose) moieties and 18 Da, 36 Da, 216 Da, 246 Da and 324 Da from disaccharide moieties. Among the fragmented ions, [M −;84 + H]+ of monosaccharides and [M − 246 + H]+ of disaccharides are relatively stable. Further multi-stage mass spectrometry (MS3) of [M − 84 + H]+ for tri- and longer peptides displays peptide sequence and glycation sites by providing modified y ions (y*), and/or modified b ions (b*) and even a modified a ion (a*). The study is useful to monitor and characterize PMTs of glycation in complex protein systems based on ESI-MS related techniques.
Australian English: Its Evolution and Current State
Authors: Collins Peter
Published: November 2013

This paper provides a critical overview of research on Australian English (‘AusE’), and of the vexing questions that the research has grappled with. These include: What is the historical explanation for the homogeneity of the Australian accent? Was it formed by the fi rst generation of native-born Australians in the ‘Sydney mixing bowl’, its spread subsequently facilitated by high population mobility? Or is the answer to be found in sociolinguistic reconstructions of the early colony suggesting that a uniform London English was transplanted to Australia in 1788 and that speakers of other dialects quickly adapted to it? How is Australia’s national identity embodied in its lexicon, and to what extent is it currently under the infl uence of external pressure from American English? What are the most distinctive structural features of AusE phonology, morphosyntax and discourse? To what extent do allegedly unique Australian features such as sentence-final but and yeah-no in discourse serve the social role of indexing ‘Australianness’? What is the nature and extent of variation – regional, social and ethnic – in contemporary AusE? Are such regional phonological differences as /æ/~/a/ variation increasing or diminishing? Does there exist a pan-ethnic variety of AusE that is particularly associated with younger Australians of second generation Middle Eastern and Mediterranean background? Has contemporary AusE consolidated its own norms as an independent national standard?
English in Singapore
Authors: Tan Peter K W
Published: November 2013

This article discusses the various ways in which it is possible to theorise about the varieties of English in the world, in particular Kachru’s (1982) concentric circle model and Schneider’s (2007) phases of development in post-colonial varieties of English and I try to fi t Singapore English into these models, although in both cases there are some difficulties. I then provide the historical background to how English was spread to South-East Asia and note that English is moving towards first-language status. The key phonological, grammatical, lexical and discourse are outlined. I end by discussing some of the key elements to remember when considering non-Anglo Englishes like Singapore English.