bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AB
5
Preassembly Is Not Required for Shiga Toxin Activity
Authors: Pellino Christine A. , Karve Sayali S. , Pradhan Suman , Weiss Alison A.
Published: March 2016

Shiga toxin (Stx)-producing
Escherichia coli
(STEC) is a major cause of foodborne illness, including the life-threatening complication hemolytic-uremic syndrome. The German outbreak in 2011 resulted in nearly 4,000 cases of infection, with 54 deaths. Two forms of Stx, Stx1 and Stx2, differ in potency, and subtype Stx2a is most commonly associated with fatal human disease. Stx is considered to be an AB
5
toxin. The single A (enzymatically active) subunit inhibits protein synthesis by cleaving a catalytic adenine from the eukaryotic rRNA. The B (binding) subunit forms a homopentamer and mediates cellular association and toxin internalization by binding to the glycolipid globotriaosylceramide (Gb3). Both subunits are essential for toxicity. Here we report that unlike other AB
5
toxin family members, Stx is produced by STEC as unassembled A and B subunits. A preformed AB
5
complex is not required for cellular toxicity or
in vivo
toxicity to mice, and toxin assembly likely occurs at the cell membrane. We demonstrate that disruption of A- and B-subunit association by use of A-subunit peptides that lack enzymatic activity can protect mice from lethal doses of toxin. Currently, no treatments have been proven to be effective for hemolytic-uremic syndrome. Our studies demonstrate that agents that interfere with A- and B-subunit assembly may have therapeutic potential. Shiga toxin (Stx) produced by pathogenic
Escherichia coli
is considered to be an AB
5
heterohexamer; however, no known mechanisms ensure AB
5
assembly. Stx released by
E. coli
is not in the AB
5
conformation and assembles at the receptor interface. Thus, unassembled Stx can impart toxicity. This finding shows that preventing AB
5
assembly is a potential treatment for Stx-associated illnesses.

IMPORTANCE
Complications due to Shiga toxin are frequently fatal, and at present, supportive care is the only treatment option. Furthermore, antibiotic treatment is contraindicated due to the ability of antibiotics to amplify bacterial expression of Shiga toxin. We report, contrary to prevailing assumptions, that Shiga toxin produced by STEC circulates as unassembled A and B subunits at concentrations that are lethal to mice. Similar to the case for anthrax toxin, assembly occurs on receptors expressed on the surfaces of mammalian target cells. Disruption of Shiga toxin assembly by use of A-subunit peptides that lack enzymatic activity protects mice from lethal challenge with Shiga toxin, suggesting a new approach for development of therapeutics.
Spontaneous hypoglycaemia in a patient with Graves' disease
Authors: Paudyal Buddhi , Shakya Mila , Basnyat Buddha
Published: March 2016

A 23-year-old man, on treatment for Graves’ disease, presented to the emergency department, with 2 separate episodes of loss of consciousness. During the first episode, the initial serum glucose was 19 mg/mL, and 44 mg/dL during the second episode. The patient was non-diabetic, and had elevated blood insulin, C peptide and insulin antibody levels. His abdominal radiographic findings were normal. He was diagnosed with Hirata disease, and put on propylthiouracil as a replacement for carbimazole. Hypoglycaemia was managed with dextrose infusions and frequent meals. The patient's condition improved and he had no further episodes of hypoglycaemia during the follow-up period.
Current status of pregnancy-related maternal mortality in Japan: a report from the Maternal Death Exploratory Committee in Japan
Authors: Hasegawa Junichi , Sekizawa Akihiko , Tanaka Hiroaki , Katsuragi Shinji , Osato Kazuhiro , Murakoshi Takeshi , Nakata Masahiko , Nakamura Masamitsu , Yoshimatsu Jun , Sadahiro Tomohito , Kanayama Naohiro , Ishiwata Isamu , Kinoshita Katsuyuki , Ikeda Tomoaki
Published: March 2016

Objective

To clarify the problems related to maternal deaths in Japan, including the diseases themselves, causes, treatments and the hospital or regional systems.

Design

Descriptive study.

Setting

Maternal death registration system established by the Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (JAOG).

Participants

Women who died during pregnancy or within a year after delivery, from 2010 to 2014, throughout Japan (N=213).

Main outcome measures

The preventability and problems in each maternal death.

Results

Maternal deaths were frequently caused by obstetric haemorrhage (23%), brain disease (16%), amniotic fluid embolism (12%), cardiovascular disease (8%) and pulmonary disease (8%). The Committee considered that it was impossible to prevent death in 51% of the cases, whereas they considered prevention in 26%, 15% and 7% of the cases to be slightly, moderately and highly possible, respectively. It was difficult to prevent maternal deaths due to amniotic fluid embolism and brain disease. In contrast, half of the deaths due to obstetric haemorrhage were considered preventable, because the peak duration between the initial symptoms and initial cardiopulmonary arrest was 1–3 h.

Conclusions

A range of measures, including individual education and the construction of good relationships among regional hospitals, should be established in the near future, to improve primary care for patients with maternal haemorrhage and to save the lives of mothers in Japan.
Unit 731 and moral repair
Authors: Hickey Doug , Li Scarllet SiJia , Morrison Celia , Schulz Richard , Thiry Michelle , Sorensen Kelly
Published: March 2016

Unit 731, a biological warfare research organisation that operated under the authority of the Imperial Japanese Army in the 1930s and 1940s, conducted brutal experiments on thousands of unconsenting subjects. Because of the US interest in the data from these experiments, the perpetrators were not prosecuted and the atrocities are still relatively undiscussed. What counts as meaningful moral repair in this case—what should perpetrators and collaborator communities do decades later? We argue for three non-ideal but realistic forms of moral repair: (1) a national policy in Japan against human experimentation without appropriate informed and voluntary consent; (2) the establishment of a memorial to the victims of Unit 731; and (3) US disclosure about its use of Unit 731 data and an apology for failing to hold the perpetrators accountable.
Seeing illness in art and medicine: a patient and printmaker collaboration
Authors: Stahl Devan , Stahl Darian Goldin
Published: March 2016

For many patients, viewing one's illness through medical imaging technology can be an unsettling experience. Patients are likely not to see themselves represented in medical images and may find it difficult to reconcile this new image with their own body image. In this article, a patient with multiple sclerosis and a printmaker describe a collaborative project they have developed, wherein the patient's medical images are incorporated into pieces of fine art. The aim of the project is to open up the interpretation of the ill-body to persons outside the medical field, so as to do justice to the multiple dimensions of the body chronically ill persons often inhabit.
Signal transduction of the physical environment in the neural differentiation of stem cells
Authors: Thompson Ryan , Chan Christina
Published: March 2016

Neural differentiation is largely dependent on extracellular signals within the cell microenvironment. These extracellular signals are mainly in the form of soluble factors that activate intracellular signaling cascades that drive changes in the cell nucleus. However, it is becoming increasingly apparent that the physical microenvironment provides signals that can also influence lineage commitment and very low modulus surfaces has been repeatedly demonstrated to promote neurogenesis. The molecular mechanisms governing mechano-induced neural differentiation are still largely uncharacterized; however, a growing body of evidence indicates that physical stimuli can regulate known signaling cascades and transcription factors involved in neural differentiation. Understanding how the physical environment affects neural differentiation at the molecular level will enable research and design of materials that will eventually enhance neural stem cell (NSC) differentiation, homogeneity and specificity.
Emergency Coordination Model of Fresh Agricultural Products’ Three-Level Supply Chain with Asymmetric Information
Authors: Yang Juan , Liu Haorui , Yu Xuedou , Xiao Fenghua
Published: March 2016

In consideration of influence of loss, freshness, and secret retailer cost of products, how to handle emergency events during three-level supply chain is researched when market need is presumed to be a nonlinear function with retail price in fresh agricultural product market. Centralized and decentralized supply chain coordination models are studied based on asymmetric information. Optimal strategy of supply chain in dealing with retail price perturbation is caused by emergency events. The research reveals robustness for optimal production planning, wholesale price for distributors, wholesale price for retailers, and retail price of three-level supply chain about fresh agricultural products. The above four factors can keep constant within a certain perturbation of expectation costs for retailers because of emergency events; the conclusions are verified by numerical simulation. This paper also can be used for reference to the other related studies in how to coordinate the supply chain under asymmetric and punctual researches information response to disruptions.
Genetic Diversity of Eight Domestic Goat Populations Raised in Turkey
Authors: Bulut Zafer , Kurar Ercan , Ozsensoy Yusuf , Altunok Vahdettin , Nizamlioglu Mehmet
Published: March 2016

The objective of this study was to determine the intra- and intergenetic diversities of eight different goat populations in Turkey including Hair, Angora, Kilis, Yayladag, Shami, Honamli, Saanen, and Alpine. A total of 244 DNA samples were genotyped using 11 microsatellites loci. The genetic differentiation between breeds was considerable as a result of the statistically significant (P<0.001) pairwiseFSTvalues of each pair of breeds. Exceptionally,FSTvalues calculated for Honamli and Hair breeds were statistically nonsignificant (P>0.05). Heterozygosity values ranged between 0.62 and 0.73. According to the structure and assignment test, Angora and Yayladag goats were assigned to the breed they belong to, while other breeds were assigned to two or more different groups. Because this study for the first time presented genetic data on the Yayladag goat, results of structure analysis and assigned test suggest that further analyses are needed using additional and different molecular markers.
Innovative Biomaterials Based on Collagen-Hydroxyapatite and Doxycycline for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Mederle Narcisa , Marin Stefania , Marin Minodora Maria , Danila Elena , Mederle Ovidiu , Albu Kaya Madalina Georgiana , Ghica Mihaela Violeta
Published: March 2016

Bone regeneration is a serious challenge in orthopedic applications because of bone infections increase, tumor developing, and bone loss due to trauma. In this context, the aim of our study was to develop innovative biomaterials based on collagen and hydroxyapatite (25, 50, and 75%) which mimic bone composition and prevent or treat infections due to doxycycline content. The biomaterials were obtained by freeze-drying in spongious forms and were characterized by water uptake capacity and microscopy. Thein vitrorelease of doxycycline was also determined and established by non-Fickian drug transport mechanism. Among the studied biomaterials, the most suitable one to easily deliver the drug and mimic bone structure, having compact structure and lower capacity to uptake water, was the one with 75% hydroxyapatite and being cross-linked.
Cylindricity Error Measuring and Evaluating for Engine Cylinder Bore in Manufacturing Procedure
Authors: Chen Qiang , Tao Xueheng , Lu Jinshi , Wang Xuejun
Published: March 2016

On-line measuring device of cylindricity error is designed based on two-point method error separation technique (EST), which can separate spindle rotation error from measuring error. According to the principle of measuring device, the mathematical model of the minimum zone method for cylindricity error evaluating is established. Optimized parameters of objective function decrease to four from six by assuming thatcis equal to zero andhis equal to one. Initial values of optimized parameters are obtained from least square method and final values are acquired by the genetic algorithm. The ideal axis of cylinder is fitted in MATLAB. Compared to the error results of the least square method, the minimum circumscribed cylinder method, and the maximum inscribed cylinder method, the error result of the minimum zone method conforms to the theory of error evaluation. The results indicate that the method can meet the requirement of engine cylinder bore cylindricity error measuring and evaluating.
Regenerated Cellulose-Based Denim Fabric for Tropical Regions: An Analytical Study on Making Denim Comfortable
Authors: Kumari Annu , Khurana Karan
Published: March 2016

Denim is no more “work wear’’ in the present era. More than a need, it is a fashion commodity for every age group, specifically for youth. Garments with multiple permutations and combinations of denim fabric variables like fibers, yarns, and Lycra % and weaving techniques are available with differing garment design statements, but the comfort aspect is slightly ignored. To cater for the masses living in hot and humid areas, a denim fabric is being projected with varying garment constructional parameters. Regenerated cellulose-based fibers/yarns are considered as ecofriendly, cool, soft, fairly strong, and durable among other man-made and natural fiber-based yarns. The present study is an attempt to develop comfortable denim clothing using regenerated cellulose fiber derivatives, maintaining its traditional rustic look for tropical regions. Fabric performance evaluation methods were used to ascertain the performance of the newly developed clothing.
Detection of Bacterial Wilt Pathogen and Isolation of Its Bacteriophage from Banana in Lumajang Area, Indonesia
Authors: Addy Hardian Susilo , Azizi Norita Fatatik , Mihardjo Paniman Ashna
Published: March 2016

Bacterial wilt disease on banana is an important disease in Lumajang District and causes severe yield loss. Utilizing bacteriophage as natural enemy of pathogenic bacteria has been widely known as one of the control strategies. This research was aimed at determining the causing agent of bacterial wilt on banana isolated from Lumajang area, to obtain wide-host range bacteriophages against bacterial wilt pathogen and to know the basic characteristic of bacteriophages, particularly its nucleic acid type. Causative agent of bacterial wilt was isolated from symptomatic banana trees from seven districts in Lumajang area on determinative CPG plates followed by rapid detection by PCR technique using specific pair-primer. Bacteriophages were also isolated from soil of infected banana crop in Sukodono District. Morphological observation showed that all bacterial isolates have similar characteristic as common bacterial wilt pathogen,Ralstonia solanacearum. In addition, detection of FliC region in all isolates confirmed that all isolates wereR. solanacearumaccording to the presence of 400 bp of FliC DNA fragment. Moreover, two bacteriophages were obtained from this experiment (ϕRSSKD1 andϕRSSKD2), which were able to infect all nineR. solanacearumisolates. Nucleic acid analysis showed that the nucleic acid of bacteriophages was DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid).
Fractional Calculus of Analytic Functions Concerned with Möbius Transformations
Authors: Breaz Nicoleta , Breaz Daniel , Owa Shigeyoshi
Published: March 2016

LetAbe the class of functionsf(z)in the open unit diskUwithf(0)=0andf′(0)=1. Also, letw(ζ)be a Möbius transformation inUfor somez∈U. Applying the Möbius transformations, we consider some properties of fractional calculus (fractional derivatives and fractional integrals) off(z)∈A. Also, some interesting examples for fractional calculus are given.
CandidaSpecies Prevalence Profile in HIV Seropositive Patients from a Major Tertiary Care Hospital in New Delhi, India
Authors: Maheshwari Monika , Kaur Ravinder , Chadha Sanjim
Published: March 2016

Candidais a common opportunistic pathogen during the course of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease progression. Changes in the clinical severity of candidiasis and theCandidaspecies prevalence profile may be a reflection of immunological changes in HIV positive patients. The aim of this study was to document the changing pattern ofCandidaspecies prevalence profile in HIV seropositive patients from a tertiary care hospital in North India. One hundred and twenty HIV seropositive subjects were recruited forCandidamicrobial screening. Clinical specimens including blood, oral swabs, expectorated or induced sputum/bronchoalveolar lavage specimens, and urine were collected depending on the patient’s symptoms. A total of 128Candidaisolates were obtained from 88 cases and 7 differentCandidaspecies were identified.C. albicans(50%) was the most common species isolated followed byC. glabrata(17%) andC. dubliniensis(12.5%). Other species isolated wereC. parapsilosis(7.8%),C. krusei,C. tropicalis(4.6% each), andC. kefyr(3%). Strong clinical suspicion along with optimal sampling of an accurate diagnosis ofCandidaspecies involved would go a long way in decreasing the morbidity associated with non-albicans Candidaspecies.
The Role of IL-1 Family Members and Kupffer Cells in Liver Regeneration
Authors: Tan Quanhui , Hu Jianjun , Yu Xiaolan , Guan Wen , Lu Huili , Yu Yan , Yu Yongsheng , Zang Guoqiang , Tang Zhenghao
Published: March 2016

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) family and Kupffer cells are linked with liver regeneration, but their precise roles remain unclear. IL-1 family members are pleiotropic factors with a range of biological roles in liver diseases, inducing hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as liver regeneration. Kupffer cells are the main source of IL-1 and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), the key members of IL-1 family. This systemic review highlights a close association of IL-1 family members and Kupffer cells with liver regeneration, although their specific roles are inconclusive. Moreover, IL-1 members are proposed to induce effects on liver regeneration through Kupffer cells.
Does the Use of Intraoperative Breast Sizers Increase Complication Rates in Primary Breast Augmentation? A Retrospective Analysis of 416 Consecutive Cases in a Single Institution
Authors: Khoo Lee Seng , Radwanski Henrique N. , Senna-Fernandes Vasco , Antônio Nsingi Nsosolo , Fellet Leonardo Luiz Fernandes , Pitanguy Ivo
Published: March 2016

Background. Is the use of intraoperative breast sizers beneficial for plastic surgeons or do they result in higher complication rates? Methods. This is a retrospective study of 416 consecutive cases of primary breast augmentation with silicone implants at the Plastic Surgery Service of Professor Ivo Pitanguy at the 38th Infirmary Santa Casa Misericórdia Hospital, Rio De Janeiro, from January 2011 to March 2014. 212 cases (51%) were carried out with use of intraoperative breast sizers with 204 cases (49%) without the use of implant sizers. This study compares the outcome of cases that employed the use of intraoperative implant sizers versus those that did not in terms of infection, hematoma/seroma formation, and capsular contracture. Results. Of 416 primary breast augmentation cases, there were 5 cases of infection (1.2%), 4 cases of seroma (1%), 3 cases of hematoma (0.7%), and 7 cases of capsular contracture (Baker’s Grade III/IV)(1.7%). Total complication rate limited to infection, seroma, hematoma, and capsular contracture was 1.15% (95% CI 0.96–1.93%). There was a significant difference in the scores for breast sizers (M = 4.3, SD = 1.4) and no breast sizers (M = 2.3, SD = 0.87) conditions, t(8) = 2.79, p=0.018. The use of implant sizers was correlated with a higher complication rate. Conclusion. Good results could be obtained without the use of breast sizers in primary breast augmentation with use of a biodimensional tissue based planning system while eliminating risks of infection and reducing intraoperative time. Notwithstanding, in a residency program breast sizers can be an excellent training tool to shorten the learning curve in the novice surgeon.
Prognostic and Predictive Values of Subcellular Localisation of RET in Renal Clear-Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Lei , Zhang Yu , Gao Yu , Fan Yang , Chen Luyao , Liu Kan , Meng Qingyu , Zhao Chaofei , Ma Xin
Published: March 2016

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) presents a poor prognosis and an unpredictable course. To date, no validated biomarkers can predict the outcome of RCC. Ongoing efforts are conducted to identify the molecular markers of RCC progression, as well as the targets for novel therapeutic approaches. RET is a tyrosine kinase receptor which has been investigated as a possible target in other cancers because it is involved in oncogenic activation. To evaluate the predictive and prognostic functions of RET in ccRCC, a tissue microarray study was conducted on 273 ccRCC patients. Results showed that both RET cytoplasmic and nuclear expression were independently associated with PFS and OS, and the combined RET cytoplasmic and nuclear statuses demonstrated that the ratio of high nuclear RET and cytoplasmic RET was the strongest predictor of both PFS and OS. The high cytoplasmic RET expression retained its independent poor prognostic value in targeted drug treated patients. The RET nuclear expression was associated with distant metastasis. Moreover, the RET nuclear expression was an independent predictor of ccRCC postoperative metastasis. In conclusion, RET may be useful in prognostication and can be used at initial diagnosis to identify patients with high potential to develop metastasis.
Effect of Cadmium Concentration on Structural, Optical, and Electrical Properties of Cu2Zn1−xCdxSnS4Quinternary Alloy Nanofibres, Synthesized by Electrospinning Technique
Authors: Ibraheam A. S. , Al-Douri Y. , Al-Hazeem Nabeel Z. , Hashim U. , Prakash Deo , Verma K. D.
Published: March 2016

The Cu2Zn1−xCdxSnS4quinternary alloy nanofibres with different Cd concentrations were grown on glass substrate using the electrospinning technique. The structural properties of Cu2Zn1−xCdxSnS4quinternary alloy nanofibres were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Optical properties were analysed through UV-visible spectrophotometry (UV-Vis) and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, which revealed that there is a decrease in band gap from 1.75 eV to 1.61 eV, with the increasing Cd concentration fromx= 0 tox= 1. The current-voltage measurements exhibited a power conversion efficiency of 3% under the solar illumination with intensity of 100 mW/cm2. Electrical properties supported that the Cu2Zn1−xCdxSnS4quinternary alloy can be used as an absorber in solar cells. The bulk modulus, refractive index, and dielectric constant were also investigated.
Absolute Reticulocyte Count and Reticulocyte Hemoglobin Content as Predictors of Early Response to Exclusive Oral Iron in Children with Iron Deficiency Anemia
Authors: Parodi Emilia , Giraudo Maria Teresa , Ricceri Fulvio , Aurucci Maria Luigia , Mazzone Raffaela , Ramenghi Ugo
Published: March 2016

We report data regarding kinetic of response to oral iron in 34 iron deficiency anemia children. Twenty-four/34 patients (70.5%) reached reference value of hemoglobin (Hb) concentration for age and sex at day + 30 from the beginning of treatment (complete early responders (CERs)), and 4/34 (12%) reached an Hb concentration at least 50% higher than the original (partial early responders (PERs)). CHr at T1 (within 7 days from the beginning of treatment) was significantly different in the different groups (22.95 in CERs versus 18.41 in other patients;p=0.001; 22.42 in early responders versus 18.07 in NERs;p=0.001). Relative increase of CHr from T0 to T1 resulted significantly higher in CERs than in other patients (0.21 versus 0.11,p=0.042) and in early responders than in NERs (0.22 versus 0.004,p=0.006). Multivariate logistic models revealed a higher probability of being a complete early responder due to relative increase of ARC from T0 to T1 [OR (95% CI) = 44.95 (1.54–1311.98)] and to CHr at T1 [OR (95% CI) =3.18 (1.24–8.17)]. Our preliminary data confirm CHr as early and accurate predictor of hematological response to oral iron.
Efficient Option Pricing in Crisis Based on Dynamic Elasticity of Variance Model
Authors: Fan Congyin , Xiang Kaili , Chen Peimin
Published: March 2016

Market crashes often appear in daily trading activities and such instantaneous occurring events would affect the stock prices greatly. In an unstable market, the volatility of financial assets changes sharply, which leads to the fact that classical option pricing models with constant volatility coefficient, even stochastic volatility term, are not accurate. To overcome this problem, in this paper we put forward a dynamic elasticity of variance (DEV) model by extending the classical constant elasticity of variance (CEV) model. Further, the partial differential equation (PDE) for the prices of European call option is derived by using risk neutral pricing principle and the numerical solution of the PDE is calculated by the Crank-Nicolson scheme. In addition, Kalman filtering method is employed to estimate the volatility term of our model. Our main finding is that the prices of European call option under our model are more accurate than those calculated by Black-Scholes model and CEV model in financial crashes.
Electron Density from Balmer Series Hydrogen Lines and Ionization Temperatures in Inductively Coupled Argon Plasma Supplied by Aerosol and Volatile Species
Authors: Borkowska-Burnecka Jolanta , Żyrnicki Wiesław , Wełna Maja , Jamróz Piotr
Published: March 2016

Electron density and ionization temperatures were measured for inductively coupled argon plasma at atmospheric pressure. Different sample introduction systems were investigated. Samples containing Sn, Hg, Mg, and Fe and acidified with hydrochloric or acetic acids were introduced into plasma in the form of aerosol, gaseous mixture produced in the reaction of these solutions with NaBH4 and the mixture of the aerosol and chemically generated gases. The electron densities measured from Hα, Hβ, Hγ, and Hδ lines on the base of Stark broadening were compared. The study of the H Balmer series line profiles showed that the ne values from Hγ and Hδ were well consistent with those obtained from Hβ which was considered as a common standard line for spectroscopic measurement of electron density. The ne values varied from 0.56·1015 to 1.32·1015 cm−3 and were the highest at loading mixture of chemically generated gases. The ionization temperatures of plasma, determined on the base of the Saha approach from ion-to-atom line intensity ratios, were lower for Sn and Hg (6500–7200 K) than those from Fe and Mg lines (7000–7800 K). The Sn II/Sn I and Hg II/Hg I, Fe II/Fe I, and Mg II/Mg I intensity ratios and the electron densities (ne) were dependent on experimental conditions of plasma generation. Experimental and theoretically calculated ionization degrees were compared.
Kann Komplementärmedizin einen aktiven Beitrag zur Prävention von Übergewicht leisten?
Authors: Simões-Wüst Ana Paula
Published: March 2016

Zwei kürzlich nach Peer Review veröffentlichte Fachartikel zeigen ein vorteilhafteres Körpergewicht bei den Bevölkerungsgruppen i) der Nutzer von Komplementärmedizin in der Schweiz und ii) der Befürworter anthroposophischer Medizin und biologischer Ernährung in den Niederlanden. Diese Studien deuten somit darauf hin, dass die Nutzung komplementärer Formen der Medizin und/oder assoziierte Lebensstile dem vorherrschenden Trend zu Übergewicht und Adipositas wenigstens teilweise entgegenwirken können. In der vorliegenden Übersichtsarbeit werden die Resultate beider Studien gegenübergestellt und die mögliche Einbindung der komplementären Medizin in einen präventiven Approach diskutiert.
Lymphozytenmigration unter Exposition homöopathischer Arzneimittel bei parodontaler Entzündung - eine kontrollierte Pilotstudie
Authors: Gassmann Georg , Raak Christa , Büchel Katharina , Schaupp Franziska , Entschladen Frank , Friedmann Anton , Ostermann Thomas
Published: March 2016

Hintergrund: Viele homöopathische Arzneimittel werden auch für die Behandlung parodontaler Entzündungsprozesse eingesetzt. Über deren Wirkprinzipien ist allerdings nur wenig bekannt. Ziel dieser Studie war es daher, die Effekte verdünnter Substanzen auf die Migrationsaktivität von Lymphozyten bei parodontalen Entzündungsprozessen in vitro zu untersuchen. Material und Methoden: Lymphozyten wurden aus Blutproben von 3 Parodontitispatienten und 3 gematchten gesunden Probanden extrahiert und zusammen mit verdünnten wässrigen Extrakten (D12 and C200) von Mercurius solubilis, Silicea, Sulfur, Tuberculinum oder Placebo in eine Kollagenmatrix eingebettet. Nach einer 60-minütigen mikroskopischen Videoaufzeichnung im Zeitraffer wurden die Migrationsaktivität und -geschwindigkeit der Lyphozyten von je 30 randomisiert ausgewählten Zellen nachvollzogen. Neben univariaten statistischen Verfahren wurde eine SiZer-Zeitreihenanalyse durchgeführt. Ergebnisse: Während bei den Hochverdünnungen (C200) keine bedeutenden Unterschiede zwischen Placebo und den Substanzen gefunden wurden, konnten bei den niedrigen Verdünnungen (D12) im Vergleich zu Placebo starke Effekte beobachtet werden. Die stärksten Effekte wurden in den mit Sulfur D12 exponierten Lyphozyten beobachtet. Während bei den Lymphozyten der Parodontitispatienten ein spezifischer Aktivierungseffekt (mittlere Aktivität: 11,1% (Placebo) vs. 23,8% (Verum)) festgestellt werden konnte, blieb dieser bei den gesunden Probanden aus (25,8% (Placebo) vs. 25,6% (Verum)). Dieser Effekt konnte auch durch die SiZer-Zeitreihenanalyse als signifikant bestätigt werden. Schlussfolgerung: Die Debatte um die Wirkprinzipien von hochverdünnten Substanzen wird immer noch kontrovers geführt. Trotz der geringen Teilnehmerzahl und den damit verbundenen Limitierungen in der Aussagekraft sind insbesondere die Ergebnisse für Sulfur D12 ermutigend. Diese sollten in nachfolgenden Experimenten überprüft und durch weitere immunologische Versuche wie z.B. die Durchflusszytometrie von Zellinien verifiziert werden.
Mind the Gap! Lay and Medical Perceptions of Risks Associated with the Use of Alternative Treatment and Conventional Medicine
Authors: Salamonsen Anita
Published: March 2016

Background: Studies on the widespread use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) demonstrate that CAM users base their treatment decisions on both subjective, experience-based knowledge and medical knowledge. The aim of this study was to explore lay and medical risk perceptions associated with CAM and conventional medicine. Patients and Methods: In this explorative qualitative study, we conducted in-depth interviews with 25 Norwegian CAM users with cancer or multiple sclerosis and 12 doctors. Results: The interviews revealed fundamental differences in risk perceptions influencing treatment decisions and risk communication in a clinical setting. While CAM users considered conventional medicine as potentially risky and related this to experiences of severe adverse effects, CAM was perceived as natural and safe. Doctors' risk perceptions were quite the contrary, mainly because of lack of scientific evidence for CAM as a safe and beneficial treatment option. Conclusion: For the safety of CAM users, such divergent risk perceptions may have far-reaching consequences. CAM users should be taken seriously with their self-perception as decision-makers considering their approaches to experiences, knowledge, and science. An awareness of differing lay and medical risk perceptions associated with CAM and conventional medicine in research, doctor-patient communication, and education of patients and doctors is thus important to optimize patient safety in complex health care systems.
Which Subtype of Functional Dyspepsia Patients Responses Better to Acupuncture? A Retrospective Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ma Tingting , Zeng Fang , Li Ying , Wang Chieh-Mei , Tian Xiaoping , Yu Shuyuan , Zhao Ling , Wu Xi , Yang Min , Wang Dejun , Liang Fanrong
Published: March 2016

Background: Whether subgroups of functional dyspepsia (FD) should be treated with different approaches is controversially discussed in research. As our previous study has demonstrated the effect of acupuncture in FD treatment, we now further analyze the therapeutic effect of acupuncture in the treatment of postprandial distress syndrome (PDS) and epigastric pain syndrome (EPS). Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted in 465 eligible PDS patients and 241 EPS patients. 4 acupuncture groups (group A: specific acupoints along the stomach meridian; group B: non-specific acupoints along the stomach meridian; group C: alarm and transport acupoints; group D: specific acupoints along the gallbladder meridian) were compared with a non-acupoint sham acupuncture group and an itopride group. The patients were treated in 5 consecutive sessions per week for 4 weeks and were followed-up for 12 weeks afterwards. Primary outcome of the study was defined as response rate and symptom improvement as measured by the Symptom Index of Dyspepsia, while secondary outcome was designated as improvement in quality of life (QoL) as determined by the Nepean Dyspepsia Index. Results: Symptoms of dyspepsia and QoL were improved from baseline in all groups. In EPS patients, no statistically significant differences could be observed in response rate (p = 0.239) and symptoms improvement (p = 0.344 for epigastric pain; p = 0.465 for epigastric burning). In contrast, PDS patients of the acupuncture group A showed higher response rate (53.2% vs. 19.7%, p<0.001; 53.2% vs. 35.1%, p = 0.025) and score change in postprandial fullness (1.01 vs. 0.27, p<0.001; 1.01 vs. 0.57, p<0.001), early satiation (0.81 vs. 0.21, p<0.001; 0.81 vs. 0.39, p=0.001), and QoL (14.5 vs. 4.33, p<0.001; 14.5 vs. 8.5, p<0.001) compared to the sham acupuncture and itopride group. Conclusions: FD patients with PDS responded better to the acupuncture therapies, especially at the specific acupoints along the stomach meridian. The positive therapeutic effect of acupuncture on PDS was correlated with the improvement in postprandial fullness. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrial.gov NCT00599677.
Acupuncture Therapies for Psoriasis Vulgaris: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Coyle Meaghan , Deng Jingwen , Zhang Anthony Lin , Yu Jingjie , Guo Xinfeng , Xue Charlie Changli , Lu Chuanjian
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this review was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture therapies in the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris. Embase, CENTRAL, PubMed, AMED, CINAHL, CNKI, CQVIP, CBM, and Wanfang databases were searched from inceptions to May 2013 for prospective randomized controlled trials evaluating acupuncture therapies for psoriasis vulgaris. No language limitations were applied. Studies were assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. The primary outcome was Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) score. Six studies (involving 522 participants) met the eligibility criteria for this review, and 5 were included in quantitative analysis. Due to the diversity of interventions, comparators and reported outcomes, meta-analysis was not possible. Results from single studies produced conflicting results for the outcomes PASI reduction, lesion reduction (non-PASI), PASI score, and relapse rate. There is some evidence of benefit of acupuncture therapies for the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris. However, the conclusions are limited by the small number of included trials and conflicting results from single studies. More research is needed to clarify the effect of acupuncture therapies for psoriasis vulgaris.
Potential Benefits of Acupuncture for Enhanced Recovery in Gynaecological Surgery
Authors: Yoo Jeong-Eun , Oh Dal-Seok
Published: March 2016

We aimed to evaluate if acupuncture can improve clinical benefits and patient satisfaction after gynaecological surgery supported by enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programmes. Therefore, we evaluated patient as well as clinical outcome in patient recovery after surgery. We searched MEDLINE, PubMed and EMBASE for articles dealing with post-operative acupuncture and extracted 9 suitable studies. We expected acupuncture to alleviate surgical stress, reduce emetic symptom and accelerate recovery from complications in pre-, intra-, and post-operative phases. Gastrointestinal motility and coldness achieved the full improvement rate of 50%. With regard to post-operative nausea and vomiting, 3 studies showed more than 30% and 1 showed 16% improvement. Sore throat and urinary retention achieved a mild improvement rate of 16% and 12%, respectively. In this study, we demonstrated that acupuncture can enhance recovery in gynaecological surgery without adverse effects and thus should be considered in ERAS.
Effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. on Metabolic Activity of CYP2D6 and CYP3A4
Authors: Al-Jenoobi Fahad I. , Al-Thukair Areej A. , Alam Mohd Aftab , Abbas Fawkeya A. , Al-Mohizea Abdullah M. , Alkharfy Khalid M. , Al-Suwayeh Saleh A.
Published: March 2016

Background: The present study investigated the effect of fenugreek seeds powder and its alcoholic extract on metabolic activity of drug-metabolizing enzymes CYP2D6 and CYP3A4. Materials and Methods: Dextromethorphan (DEX) was used as a probe for measuring metabolic activity, based on its CYP2D6- and CYP3A4-mediated metabolism to dextrorphan (DOR) and 3-methoxymorphinan (3-MM), respectively. For the in vitro investigations, DEX (25µM) was incubated with human liver microsomes and NADPH and tested with and without the fenugreek extract. For the in vivo study, phase I, 6 subjects received a single dose of DEX (30 mg); in phase II, after washout period, the fenugreek seeds powder was administered for 1 week and DEX was administered with its last dose. Results: In vitro, fenugreek extract inhibits CYP2D6-mediated O-demethylation of DEX. Higher concentrations (50 and 100µg/ml) of extract inhibit CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 activity. In vivo results indicated that fenugreek does not significantly inhibit CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 metabolic activity. There was no significant change in the levels of DEX metabolites (DOR 12% and 3-MM 9%) excreted in urine and their urine metabolic ratios (P values: 0.257 and 0.333 DEX/DOR and DEX/3-MM, respectively). Conclusion: In vitro and in vivo observations suggested that fenugreek may not have substantial effect on the metabolic activity of CYP2D6 and CYP3A4.
The Effect of a Complex Multi-modality Ayurvedic Treatment in a Case of Unknown Female Infertility
Authors: Kessler Christian , Stapelfeldt Elmar , Michalsen Andreas , Kowalcek Ingrid , Kronpaß Ludwig , Dhruva Anand
Published: March 2016

Background: Treatment of female infertility has been growing globally in recent years. In spite of improvements in medical strategies and the improved outcomes for infertile couples, treatment attempts remain largely unsuccessful. A growing number of patients pursue complementary and alternative medicine treatment options like Ayurveda that offers a variety of inpatient and outpatient treatments for infertility. Case Report: A case of a 38 year-old woman with infertility of unknown origin is presented. She received 18 conventional fertility treatments in 5 different fertility centers and 3 different countries. After several complications, the patient quitted conventional treatment and admitted to an Ayurvedic outpatient clinic where she received a complex Ayurvedic treatment, which included botanicals, dietary and lifestyle advice, manual therapy, yoga, and spiritual elements. The patient then became pregnant and gave birth to a healthy boy in 2012. Conclusions: Ayurveda may be a useful complementary option in the case of futile conventional treatment attempts in female infertility. Nevertheless, the evidence base for Ayurvedic interventions remains weak and requires well-designed clinical trials. This case raises some questions, such as whether the exposure to a large number of assisted reproduction procedures can lead to more health problems than health benefits. The Ayurvedic approach to fertility strives first to improve the health of the patient leading to a higher likelihood of pregnancy. As this is a case report, we are not able to exclude temporal factors stimulating the pregnancy. However, the chronology suggests that this approach might have been an important factor in the eventual pregnancy.
A Quantitative Investigation of Pulse and Tongue Features in Post-Stroke Depressive Patients and Healthy Volunteers: An Observational Pilot Study
Authors: Lee Samuel Haixiong , Niu Tingli , Yang Xuezhi , Li Haiyan , Zhu Qingwen , Niu Xin
Published: March 2016

Background: Depression is among the most common neuropsychiatric complications after stroke, having a negative impact on one's quality of life. A number of therapeutic modalities have been used for post-stroke depression (PSD) including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, a lack of objectivity in TCM hampers further improvement in diagnosis and research, since TCM diagnosis is mainly based on subjective judgment of clinicians. In this study, a modern TCM diagnostic device was used to conduct an objective study of pulse and tongue features in PSD patients and healthy individuals. Methods: A total of 67 volunteers participated. Pulse and tongue information of each participant was acquired and analyzed by the TCM Four Diagnosis Auxiliary Apparatus. Quantitative data were gathered and compared between the PSD group and the healthy group. Results: Higher rates of weak, slow, slippery, and string pulse were observed in the PSD group (p < 0.01), whereas normal pulse (p < 0.01) was detected in the healthy group. In the tongue analysis, higher rates of purple tongue (p < 0.01) with yellow fur (p < 0.01) and pale-pink tongue (p = 0.023) with white fur (p < 0.01) were observed in the PSD and the healthy groups, respectively. Abnormal tongue features (old, soft, thin, enlarged, thorny, and cracked) were detected (p < 0.05) in the PSD group. Conclusions: Objective and quantitative data of PSD patients and healthy individuals may help providing valuable clinical information for PSD research and establish quantitative TCM diagnostic standards for pulse and tongue diagnosis in clinical practice and research.
Topical Application of Honey on Surgical Wounds: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Goharshenasan Peiman , Amini Shahideh , Atria Ali , Abtahi Hamidreza , Khorasani Ghasemali
Published: March 2016

Background: The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity of honey and its ability to accelerate wound healing make it an attractive option in surgical wound care. We performed a randomized clinical trial to compare the efficacy of honey dressing with conventional dressing regarding the aesthetic outcome. Patients and Methods: Bilateral symmetric incisions in randomly selected plastic surgical patients were randomly covered postoperatively with conventional dressing and honey dressing for five days. The aesthetic outcome of the two sides was rated on a Visual Analog Scale by the surgeon and the patient and compared at month three and six after surgery. Results: Seventy two symmetrical incisions in 52 patients were evaluated during the study. The mean width of the scar after the third and the sixth month was 3.64 +/- 0.83 mm and 3.49 +/- 0.87 mm on the side that received honey dressing and 5.43 +/- 0.05 mm and 5.30+/- 1.35 mm in the control group. Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed significant difference between honey and conventional dressing outcomes at third and sixth month (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The healing process of the surgical wound and its final aesthetic result could be improved by using honey dressing.
Herbal Medicine for Cough: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wagner Luise , Cramer Holger , Klose Petra , Lauche Romy , Gass Florian , Dobos Gustav , Langhorst Jost
Published: March 2016

Background: The aim of this review was to systematically assess the literature on herbal medicine for cough as a symptom of upper respiratory tract infections and common cold. Methods: The Cochrane Library, Scopus, MEDLINE/PubMed, and Embase were searched through March 2012 for RCTs testing the effects of herbal medicine for cough. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool. Results: 34 RCTs (N = 7,083) on Pelargonium sidoides (11 RCTs), Echinacea (8 RCTs), Andrographis paniculata (6 RCTs), ivy/primrose/thyme (4 RCTs), essential oils (4 RCTs) and bakumondoto (1 RCT) were included. Controls were mainly placebo. Most studies had a low risk of bias. The meta-analysis revealed strong evidence for A. paniculata (SMD = -1.00, 95% CI = -1.85, -0.15; P<0.001) and ivy/primrose/thyme (RR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.23, 1.60; P<0.001) in treating cough; moderate evidence for P. sidiodes (RR = 4.60; 95% CI = 2.89,7.31; P<0.001), and limited evidence for Echinacea (SMD = -0.68; 95% CI = -1.32, -0.04; P = 0.04). Conclusion: This review found strong evidence for A. paniculata and ivy/primrose/thyme-based preparations and moderate evidence for P. sidoides being significantly superior to placebo in alleviating the frequency and severity of patients' cough symptoms. Additional research, including other herbal treatments, is needed in this area.
Demenz in der oralen Medizin: Erkennen von Zeichen der Erkrankung - Einschätzen von Ressourcen
Authors: Besimo Christian E. , Besimo-Meyer Ruth H.
Published: March 2016

Die zunehmende Zahl von an Demenz erkrankten Menschen stellt auch die orale Medizin vor erhebliche Herausforderungen. Über 60% der von Demenz Betroffenen leben ohne Diagnose und erhalten somit weder eine adäquate medizinische noch eine oralmedizinische Betreuung. Somit sehen sich die Zahnärzte vor die Notwendigkeit gestellt, selbst kognitive Defizite bei ihren älteren Patienten erkennen zu können, um Fehlentscheidungen bezüglich Diagnostik, Prävention und Therapie zu vermeiden. Demenzkranke erfordern aber auch besondere Fähigkeiten in der Kommunikation. Die vorliegende Arbeit stellt deshalb Instrumente vor, die im oralmedizinischen Kontext geeignet sind, um kognitive Defizite zuverlässiger erkennen, verbleibende Ressourcen besser einzuschätzen und die Kommunikation optimieren zu können.