bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors associated with slide positivity among febrile patients in a conflict zone of north-eastern Myanmar along the China-Myanmar border
Authors: Li Nana , Parker Daniel M , Yang Zhaoqing , Fan Qi , Zhou Guofa , Ai Guoping , Duan Jianhua , Lee Ming-chieh , Yan Guiyun , Matthews Stephen A , Cui Liwang , Wang Ying
Published: October 2013

Background

Malaria within the Greater Mekong sub-region is extremely heterogeneous. While China and Thailand have been relatively successful in controlling malaria, Myanmar continues to see high prevalence. Coupled with the recent emergence of artemisinin-resistant malaria along the Thai-Myanmar border, this makes Myanmar an important focus of malaria within the overall region. However, accurate epidemiological data from Myanmar have been lacking, in part because of ongoing and emerging conflicts between the government and various ethnic groups. Here the results are reported from a risk analysis of malaria slide positivity in a conflict zone along the China-Myanmar border.

Methods

Surveys were conducted in 13 clinics and hospitals around Laiza City, Myanmar between April 2011 and October 2012. Demographic, occupational and educational information, as well as malaria infection history, were collected. Logistic models were used to assess risk factors for slide positivity.

Results

Age patterns in Plasmodium vivax infections were younger than those with Plasmodium falciparum. Furthermore, males were more likely than females to have falciparum infections. Patients who reported having been infected with malaria during the previous year were much more likely to have a current vivax infection. During the second year of the study, falciparum infections among soldiers increased signficiantly.

Conclusions

These results fill some knowledge gaps with regard to risk factors associated with malaria slide positivity in this conflict region of north-eastern Myanmar. Since epidemiological studies in this region have been rare or non-existent, studies such as the current are crucial for understanding the dynamic nature of malaria in this extremely heterogeneous epidemiological landscape.
Nitric oxide synthase mediates PC12 differentiation induced by the surface topography of nanostructured TiO2
Authors: Tamplenizza Margherita , Lenardi Cristina , Maffioli Elisa , Nonnis Simona , Negri Armando , Forti Stefania , Sogne Elisa , De Astis Silvia , Matteoli Michela , Schulte Carsten , Milani Paolo , Tedeschi Gabriella
Published: October 2013

Background

Substrate nanoscale topography influences cell proliferation and differentiation through mechanisms that are at present poorly understood. In particular the molecular mechanism through which cells 'sense’ and adapt to the substrate and activate specific intracellular signals, influencing cells survival and behavior, remains to be clarified.

Results

To characterize these processes at the molecular level we studied the differentiation of PC12 cells on nanostructured TiO2 films obtained by supersonic cluster beam deposition.

Our findings indicate that, in PC12 cells grown without Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), the roughness of nanostructured TiO2 triggers neuritogenesis by activating the expression of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and the phospho-extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (pERK1/2) signaling. Differentiation is associated with an increase in protein nitration as observed in PC12 cells grown on flat surfaces in the presence of NGF. We demonstrate that cell differentiation and protein nitration induced by topography are not specific for PC12 cells but can be regarded as generalized effects produced by the substrate on different neuronal-like cell types, as shown by growing the human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line on nanostructured TiO2.

Conclusion

Our data provide the evidence that the nitric oxide (NO) signal cascade is involved in the differentiation process induced by nanotopography, adding new information on the mechanism and proteins involved in the neuritogenesis triggered by the surface properties.
Expression of VPAC1 in a murine model of allergic asthma
Authors: Lauenstein Hans D , Quarcoo David , Welte Tobias , Braun Armin , Groneberg David A
Published: October 2013

Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) is a putative neurotransmitter of the inhibitory non-adrenergic non-cholinergic nervous system and influences the mammalian airway function in various ways. Hence known for bronchodilatory, immunomodulatory and mucus secretion modulating effects by interacting with the VIP receptors VPAC1 and VPAC2, it is discussed to be a promising target for pharmaceutical intervention in common diseases such as COPD and bronchial asthma. Here we examined the expression and transcriptional regulation of VPAC1 in the lungs of allergic mice using an ovalbumin (OVA) -induced model of allergic asthma. Mice were sensitized to OVA and challenged with an OVA aerosol. In parallel a control group was sham sensitized with saline. VPAC1 expression was examined using RT-PCR and real time-PCR studies were performed to quantify gene transcription. VPAC1 mRNA expression was detected in all samples of OVA-sensitized and challenged animals and control tissues. Further realtime analysis did not show significant differences at the transcriptional level.

Although the present studies did not indicate a major transcriptional regulation of VPAC1 in states of allergic airway inflammation, immunomodulatory effects of VPAC1 might still be present due to regulations at the translational level.
Follicle-stimulating hormone-secreting pituitary adenoma manifesting as recurrent ovarian cysts in a young woman – latent risk of unidentified ovarian hyperstimulation: a case report
Authors: Kawaguchi Tomohiro , Ogawa Yoshikazu , Ito Kenji , Watanabe Mika , Tominaga Teiji
Published: October 2013

Background

Ovarian hyperstimulation caused by follicle-stimulating hormone-secreting gonadotroph cell adenoma is a rare, with a few reported cases, but almost certainly unnoticed cases occur because of the absence of detailed examinations. We retrospectively reviewed 200 patients treated for gonadotroph cell adenoma in our institute and identified 26 women of reproductive age. Two of these 26 patients had a history of ovarian cysts. One patient was considered to have had typical ovarian hyperstimulation, successfully treated by transsphenoidal surgery. The other patient initially underwent transsphenoidal surgery because of visual disturbance, but endocrinological examinations suggested possible relationships with previous ovarian hyperstimulation. We present the former case and discuss the latent risk of failure to identify this entity.

Case presentation

A 36-year-old woman with a sellar tumor was referred to our hospital with suspected ovarian hyperstimulation. She had a history of repeated surgery for ovarian cysts. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone and estradiol levels were within the normal ranges, and only the luteinizing hormone level was suppressed significantly. Transsphenoidal surgery achieved gross total tumor removal, and the histological diagnosis was follicle-stimulating hormone-secreting gonadotroph cell adenoma. The serum follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and estradiol levels returned to the normal ranges postoperatively, and the ovarian cysts subsequently decreased in size without particular interventions.

Conclusion

Ovarian hyperstimulation could regress after resolving the causes of high follicle-stimulating hormone level, so avoiding unnecessary ovary surgery. Detailed endocrinological examination including estradiol evaluation with pituitary imaging is quite important in women of reproductive age to establish the correct diagnosis.
Physiological relaxation induced by horticultural activity: transplanting work using flowering plants
Authors: Lee Min-sun , Park Bum-jin , Lee Juyoung , Park Kun-tae , Ku Ja-hyeong , Lee Jun-woo , Oh Kyung-ok , Miyazaki Yoshifumi
Published: October 2013

Background

Despite increasing attention and a growing volume of research data, little physiological evidence is available on the benefits of horticultural activity and the different effects on individuals. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the physiological effects of horticultural activity and to examine how differences in personality alter these effects.

Results

The effects of transplanting real flowers (horticultural activity) and handling artificial flowers (control activity) on human physiological activity were compared. On the first day, eight participants engaged in horticultural activity and another eight in the control activity. On the second day, participants switched roles. Participants’ physiological conditions during each activity were assessed by measuring the heart rate and heart rate variability (HRV). Psychological responses, which were measured using a semantic differential rating scale, showed that the horticultural activity promoted comfortable, soothed, and natural feelings, compared to the control activity. Analysis of physiological responses using two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that sympathetic nervous activity significantly decreased in the late time period (11 to 15 minutes) of horticultural activity only in the type A group.

Conclusions

This study supports the fact that the horticultural activity can enhance psychological and physiological relaxation effects, although these physiological effects can differ among individuals with different personalities.
Self-collected versus clinician-collected sampling for sexually transmitted infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Taylor Darlene , Lunny Carole , Wong Tom , Gilbert Mark , Li Neville , Lester Richard , Krajden Mel , Hoang Linda , Ogilvie Gina
Published: October 2013

Background

Three meta-analyses and one systematic review have been conducted on the question of whether self-collected specimens are as accurate as clinician-collected specimens for STI screening. However, these reviews predate 2007 and did not analyze rectal or pharyngeal collection sites. Currently, there is no consensus on which sampling method is the most effective for the diagnosis of genital chlamydia (CT), gonorrhea (GC) or human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Our meta-analysis aims to be comprehensive in that it will examine the evidence of whether self-collected vaginal, urine, pharyngeal and rectal specimens provide as accurate a clinical diagnosis as clinician-collected samples (reference standard).

Methods/Design

Inclusion and exclusion criteria: Eligible studies include both randomized and non-randomized controlled trials, pre- and post-test designs, and controlled observational studies. Search strategy: The databases that will be searched include the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Web of Science, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE), EMBASE and PubMed/Medline. Data collection and analysis: Data will be abstracted independently by two reviewers using a standardized pre-tested data abstraction form. Heterogeneity will be assessed using the Q2 test. Sensitivity and specificity estimates with 95% confidence intervals as well as negative and positive likelihood ratios will be pooled and weighted using random effects meta-analysis, if appropriate. A hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristics curve for self-collected specimens will be generated.

Discussion

This synthesis involves a meta-analysis of self-collected samples (urine, vaginal, pharyngeal and rectal swabs) versus clinician-collected samples for the diagnosis of CT, GC and HPV, the most prevalent STIs. Our systematic review will allow patients, clinicians and researchers to determine the diagnostic accuracy of specimens collected by patients compared to those collected by clinicians in the detection of chlamydia, gonorrhea and HPV.
Subacromial impingement syndrome in a patient with hereditary multiple exostosis: a case report
Authors: Clement Nicholas D , McBirnie Julie M , Porter Daniel E
Published: October 2013

Background

Hereditary multiple exostosis (HME) is characterised by multiple osteochondromas that are distributed throughout the skeleton, invariably involving the shoulder girdle. Tumours within the subacromial space can cause secondary irritation of the rotator cuff and result in subacromial impingement syndrome.

Case presentation

We describe a 19 year old female patient with HME who presented with subacromial impingement syndrome secondary to a benign exostosis originating from the spine of the scapular and projecting into the subacromial space.

Conclusion

The unique aspects of this report was that the origin of the exostosis, which was not observed on early standard radiographs of the shoulder, and the use of arthroscopic excision of the exostosis. Hence we believe a low threshold for additional imaging, such as a magnetic resonance imaging, should be considered for patients with HME with subacromial impingement syndrome to ensure a symptomatic exostosis is not neglected. Arthroscopic excision of a benign subacromial exostosis is effective, offering a minimally invasive approach with relief of the patient’s symptoms.
Prospective prediction of suicide in a nationally representative
sample: religious service attendance as a protective factor
Authors: Kleiman Evan M. , Liu Richard T.
Published: October 2013

Background

Previous research into religious service attendance as a protective
factor against suicide has been conducted only retrospectively, with
psychological autopsy studies using proxy informants of completed
suicide, rather than prospectively, with completed suicide as a dependent
variable.

Aims

To determine whether individuals who frequently attended religious
services were less likely to die by suicide than those who did not attend
so frequently.

Method

We analysed data from a nationally representative sample
(n = 20 014), collected in the USA between 1988 and
1994, and follow-up mortality data from baseline to the end of 2006.

Results

Cox proportional hazard regression analysis indicated that those who
frequently attended religious services were less likely to die by suicide
than those who did not attend, after accounting for the effects of other
relevant risk factors.

Conclusions

Frequent religious service attendance is a long-term protective factor
against suicide.
Gecko toe and lamellar shear adhesion on macroscopic, engineered rough surfaces
Authors: Gillies Andrew G. , Lin Haowen , Henry Amy , Ren Angela , Shiuan Kevin , Fearing Ronald S. , Full Robert J.
Published: October 2013

The role in adhesion of the toes and lamellae - intermediate sized structures - found on the gecko foot remains unclear. Insight into the function of these structures can lead to a more general understanding of the hierarchical nature of the gecko adhesive system, but in particular how environmental topology may relate to gecko foot morphology. We sought to discern the mechanics of the toes and lamellae by examining gecko adhesion on controlled, macroscopically rough surfaces. We used live Tokay geckos, Gekko gecko, to observe the maximum shear force a gecko foot can attain on an engineered substrate constructed with sinusoidal patterns of varying amplitudes and wavelengths in sizes similar to the dimensions of the toes and lamellae structures (0.5 to 6 mm). We found shear adhesion was significantly decreased on surfaces that had amplitudes and wavelengths approaching the lamella length and inter-lamella spacing, losing 95% of shear adhesion over the range tested. We discovered that the toes are capable of adhering to surfaces with amplitudes much larger than their dimensions even without engaging claws, maintaining 60% of shear adhesion on surfaces with amplitudes of 3 mm. Gecko adhesion can be predicted by the ratio of the lamella dimensions to surface feature dimensions. In addition to setae, remarkable macroscopic-scale features of gecko toes and lamellae that include compliance and passive conformation are necessary to maintain contact, and consequently, generate shear adhesion on macroscopically rough surfaces. Findings on the larger scale structures in the hierarchy of gecko foot function could provide the biological inspiration to drive the design of more effective and versatile synthetic fibrillar adhesives.
Spontaneous Discrimination
Authors: Pe¸ski Marcin , Szentes Balázs
Published: October 2013

We consider a dynamic economy in which agents are repeatedly matched and decide whether or not to form profitable partnerships. Each agent has a physical color and a social color. An agent's social color acts as a signal, conveying information about the physical color of agents in his partnership history. Before an agent makes a decision, he observes his match's physical and social colors. Neither the physical color nor the social color is payoff relevant. We identify environments where equilibria arise in which agents condition their decisions on the physical and social colors of their potential partners. That is, they discriminate. (JEL C78, D82, J15, J71, Z13)
Renal corpuscle and tubule morphology in ephrin-A2-/-, ephrin-A5-/- and ephrin-A2A5-/- mice
Authors: Bertram Andrea E. , Dugand Robert J. , Guildea Clodagh , Lostrom Samantha , Lyakurwa Gastor , Windsor Alexandra , Penrose-Menz Marissa , Stewart Tom , O’Shea James E. , Rodger Jennifer
Published: October 2013

The B family of Eph receptor tyrosine kinases and their ephrin ligands, best known for their role in the development of the nervous and vascular systems, have recently been implicated in mammalian kidney development and maintenance. However, the renal expression and function of the EphA and ephrin-A families have not been investigated. We performed immunohistochemistry for ephrin-A2 and ephrin-A5 in kidneys of normal adult wildtype (WT) mice and carried out quantitative morphological analysis of renal corpuscles and tubules in haematoxylin- and eosin-stained sections of WT, ephrin-A2-/-, ephrin-A5-/-and ephrin-A2A5-/-(knockout) mice. Ephrin-A2 and ephrin-A5 were strongly expressed in the tubules and glomeruli of the adult mouse kidney. Despite the significant overlap in expression between the two proteins, only the lack of ephrin-A5 had an effect on kidney morphology with glomerular size being mildly reduced in mice lacking the gene for ephrin-A5. However, the magnitude of this change was very small and could only be detected when animals were pooled across genotypes lacking ephrin-A5. The subtle phenotype, together with the relatively infrequent incidence of kidney failure in our breeding colony, suggest that ephrin-A2 and ephrin-A5 play only minor roles in kidney development and function. It is likely that other members of the ephrin-A family are expressed in the mouse kidney and redundancy within this large family of “promiscuous” signalling molecules may compensate for the loss of individual proteins in knockout mice.
Nodular clear cell hidradenoma: a rare case with similarities to metastatic clear renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Mir-Bonafé José M , Santos-Briz Ángel , González Marta , Fernández-López Emilia
Published: October 2013

Hidradenoma is presented as a benign small, firm and solitary nodule. Cytological study reveals a lesion mainly composed by two types of cells. The majority of the cases show a greater amount of a polyhedral and slightly basophilic cell type. Here we present a case with a predominance of a larger, rounded-shaped pale to clear cell type, which is characteristic of clear cell hidradenoma. Our case is of interest as, to the authors’ knowledge, no other related publication has described such striking similarities to metastatic clear renal cell carcinoma. Since the prognosis of these two conditions differs dramatically, a differential diagnosis based on immunohistochemistry is highlighted.
Elevated Factor IX Activity Is Associated With an Increased Odds Ratio for Both Arterial and Venous Thrombotic Events
Authors: Heikal Nahla M. , Murphy Karla K. , Crist Ronda A. , Wilson Andrew R. , Rodgers George M. , Smock Kristi J.
Published: October 2013

Objectives:

Elevations of factor IX (FIX) are thought to contribute to thrombotic risk, but this has not been well characterized. We retrospectively sought to determine whether elevated FIX levels are a risk factor for thrombosis in 81 adult subjects younger than 65 years (mean, 47 years) who were referred for evaluation of a hypercoagulable state.

Methods:

Patients were classified by arterial transient ischemic attack/stroke (TIA/stroke, n = 62) or venous thromboembolism (VTE, n = 19) events. FIX activity testing was performed on all 81 subjects and a reference group of 40 healthy individuals.

Results:

Thirteen (21%) of 62 subjects with TIA/stroke and 5 (26%) of 19 subjects with VTE had elevated FIX activity. Odds ratios for TIA/stroke and VTE in subjects with elevated FIX activity were 3.7 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.76–17.65) and 6.8 (95% CI, 1.18–39.07), respectively.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest an association between elevated FIX levels and both arterial and venous thrombotic events.
Demonization and drug regulation: The state, culture and FDA regulators as villains in popular fiction, 1974–present
Authors: Richert Lucas
Published: October 2013

Prescription drugs play an increasingly significant part in Americans’ lives. Therefore, undermining the process that safeguards the integrity of that drug armamentarium is particularly scandalous. This article critically considers three novels, The Third Patient, The Delta Factor and Strong Medicine, and attempts to locate them in a broader debate about the relationship between culture and the state. My analysis explores the development and implementation of a regulatory reform philosophy in the United States after 1974 and highlights the demonization of big government and specifically government bureaucrats like FDA officials. At the same time, the novels offer a specific critique of large bureaucracies, even as they acknowledge that such enormous entities provide opportunities for particular types of conspiracy narratives.
Bi-Sobolev homeomorphism with zero minors almost everywhere
Authors: Černý Robert
Published: October 2013

Suppose that

N
,
α
,
β
∈
ℕ

$N,\alpha ,\beta \in \mathbb {N}$

are satisfying the conditions

2
≤
α
≤
N
-
1

$2\le \alpha \le N-1$

and

2
≤
β
≤
N
-
1

$2\le \beta \le N-1$

. Let us fix

p
∈
[
1
,
min

{

N

N
-
α
+
1

,
N
-
β
+
1
}

)

$p\in [1,\min \lbrace \frac{N}{N-\alpha +1},N-\beta +1\rbrace )$

and

q
∈
[
1
,
min

{

N

N
-
β
+
1

,
N
-
α
+
1
}

)

$q\in [1,\min \lbrace \frac{N}{N-\beta +1},N-\alpha +1\rbrace )$

. We construct a homeomorphism

f
:

[
0
,
1
]

N

↦

[
0
,
1
]

N

$f\colon [0,1]^N\mapsto [0,1]^N$

such that

f
∈

W

1
,
p

(

[
0
,
1
]

N

,

ℝ
N

)

$f\in W^{1,p}([0,1]^N, \mathbb {R}^N)$

, f is the identity on the boundary, all minors of D
f of the α-th order are zero almost everywhere,

f

-
1

∈

W

1
,
q

(

[
0
,
1
]

N

,

ℝ
N

)

$f^{-1}\in W^{1,q}([0,1]^N, \mathbb {R}^N)$

and all minors of

D

f

-
1

$Df^{-1}$

of the β-th order are zero almost everywhere.
A simplified version of our construction gives a homeomorphism

f
:

[
0
,
1
]

N

↦

[
0
,
1
]

N

$f\colon [0,1]^N\mapsto [0,1]^N$

such that

f
∈

W

1
,
p

(

[
0
,
1
]

N

,

ℝ
N

)

$f\in W^{1,p}([0,1]^N, \mathbb {R}^N)$

, f is the identity on the boundary and all minors of D
f of the α-th order are zero almost everywhere under a less restrictive assumption

p
∈
[
1
,

N

N
-
α
+
1

)

$p\in [1,\frac{N}{N-\alpha +1})$

.
Cortisol and cortisone ratio in urine: LC-MS/MS method validation and preliminary clinical application
Authors: Antonelli Giorgia , Artusi Carlo , Marinova Mariela , Brugnolo Laura , Zaninotto Martina , Scaroni Carla , Gatti Rosalba , Mantero Franco , Plebani Mario
Published: October 2013

The determination of urinary cortisol/cortisone ratio is of clinical utility in cases of Cushing’s syndrome, apparent mineralocorticoid excess, and also provides information on 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11β-HSD) type 2 activity. It is therefore of utmost importance to ensure accurate cortisol and cortisone measurement and establish appropriate reference ranges.

After the isotopic dilution of urine, sample cleanups were obtained with on-line solid-phase extraction and cortisol and cortisone, separated using a Zorbax Eclipse XDB-C18 HPLC analytical column, were analyzed by tandem mass spectrometry with an electrospray ionization source in positive ion mode operation.

The method was linear, with concentrations of up to 625 and 1125 nmol/L and lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) of 5 and 6 nmol/L, for cortisol and cortisone, respectively. Within-run and between-run coefficients of variation were <5% and 6% for cortisol and 6% and 8% for cortisone, respectively. No ion suppression was observed. The non-parametric reference range for the cortisol/cortisone ratio was 0.14–1.09.

A simple and sensitive liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for the measurement of cortisol and cortisone in urine. Our findings indicate that the proposed analytical method is suitable for routine purposes and useful in many pathological conditions.
Impacts of hydroelectric dams on alluvial riparian plant communities in eastern Brazilian Amazonian
Authors: FERREIRA LEANDRO VALLE , CUNHA DENISE A. , CHAVES PRISCILLA P. , MATOS DARLEY C.L. , PAROLIN PIA
Published: October 2013

The major rivers of the Amazon River basin and their biota are threatened by the planned construction of large hydroelectric dams that are expected to have strong impacts on floodplain plant communities. The present study presents forest inventories from three floodplain sites colonized by alluvial riparian vegetation in the Tapajós, Xingu and Tocantins River basins in eastern Amazonian. Results indicate that tree species of the highly specialized alluvial riparian vegetation are clearly distinct among the three river basins, although they are not very distinct from each other and environmental constraints are very similar. With only 6 of 74 species occurring in all three inventories, most tree and shrub species are restricted to only one of the rivers, indicating a high degree of local distribution. Different species occupy similar environmental niches, making these fragile riparian formations highly valuable. Conservation plans must consider species complementarily when decisions are made on where to place floodplain forest conservation units to avoid the irreversible loss of unique alluvial riparian vegetation biodiversity.
Daily and seasonal activity patterns of free range South-American rattlesnake (Crotalus durissus)
Authors: TOZETTI ALEXANDRO M. , MARTINS MARCIO
Published: October 2013

This study aimed at describing daily and seasonal variation in the activity of a population of South-American rattlesnakes (Crotalus durissus) in a savanna like habitat (Cerrado) in Southeastern Brazil. Seasonal and daily activities of snakes were evaluated by the number of captures of snakes during road surveys, accidental encounters, and relocations by radio-tracking. Our results show that climatic variables such as air temperature and rainfall have little influence on the activity pattern of rattlesnakes. Our findings indicate that rattlesnakes spend most of the day resting and most of the night in ambush posture. The South-American rattlesnake is active throughout the year with a discrete peak in activity of males during the matting season. The possibility of maintaining activity levels even during the coldest and driest season can facilitate the colonization of several habitats in South America. This possibility currently facilitates the colonization of deforested areas by rattlesnakes.
Chemical, enzymatic and cellular antioxidant activity studies of Agaricus blazei Murrill
Authors: HAKIME-SILVA RICARDO A. , VELLOSA JOSE C.R. , KHALIL NAJEH M. , KHALIL OMAR A.K. , BRUNETTI IGUATEMY L. , OLIVEIRA OLGA M.M.F.
Published: October 2013

Mushrooms possess nutritional and medicinal properties that have long been used for human health preservation and that have been considered by researchers as possible sources of free radical scavengers. In this work, the antioxidant properties of water extracts from Agaricus blazei Murill, produced by maceration and decoction, are demonstrated in vitro. Resistance to oxidation is demonstrated through three mechanisms: i) inhibition of enzymatic oxidative process, with 100% inhibition of HRP (horseradish peroxidase) and MPO (myeloperoxidase); ii) inhibition of cellular oxidative stress, with 80% inhibition of the oxidative burst of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs); and iii) direct action over reactive species, with 62% and 87% suppression of HOCl and superoxide anion radical (O2• –), respectively. From the data, it was concluded that the aqueous extract of A. blazei has significant antioxidant activity, indicating its possible application for nutraceutical and medicinal purposes.
Effect of l-glutamine on myenteric neuron and of the mucous of the ileum of diabetic rats
Authors: TRONCHINI ELEANDRO A. , TREVIZAN ALINE R. , TASHIMA CRISTIANO M. , FREITAS PRISCILA DE , BAZOTTE ROBERTO B. , PEREIRA MARLI A.S. , ZANONI JACQUELINE N.
Published: October 2013

The objective of this work was to investigate the effect of the L-glutamine supplementation to prevent - diabetes induced changes in myenteric neurons and also to verify the effect on the mucosa of the ileum of Wistar rats. The animals were divided in five groups (n = 5): untreated normoglycaemic (UN), normoglycaemic treated with L-glutamine (NG), untreated diabetics (UD), diabetics treated with L-glutamine, starting on the 4th (DG4) or 45th day following diabetes induction (DG45). The amino acid was added to the diet at 1%. The density and size of neurons, the metaphasic index in the crypt, the height of the villus, the depth of the crypt and the number of globet cells were determined. There was no difference in the neuronal density and in the cellular body area of the myosin-stained myenteric neurons of groups DG4 and DG45 when compared to group D. The metaphase index and the number of goblet cells showed no significant differences when all groups were compared (P > 0.05). The villi height of groups DG4 and DG45 were 45.5% (P < 0.05) and 32.4% (P > 0.05) higher than those in group UD, respectively. The analyzed crypts showed similar depth for all studied groups.
Assessment of the cytotoxic, genotoxic, and antigenotoxic activities of Celtis iguanaea (Jacq.) in mice
Authors: BORGES FLAVIO F.V. , MACHADO THIAGO C. , CUNHA KENYA S. , PEREIRA KARLA C. , COSTA ELSON A. , PAULA JOSE R. DE , CHEN-CHEN LEE
Published: October 2013

Ethnobotanical surveys of Cerrado native plants show that leaves of Celtis iguanaea (Jacq.) Sargent (Cannabaceae), popularly known in Brazil as “esporão de galo”, are used in folk medicine for body pain, asthma, cramps, poor digestion, urinary infection, kidney dysfunctions, as well as a stimulant and diuretic. This work aimed at evaluating possible C. iguanaea aqueous leaf extract (CALE) cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, and antigenotoxicity using the mouse bone marrow micronucleous test. To assess CALE genotoxicity, Swiss mice were orally treated with three different extract concentrations (100, 300, and 500 mgkg−1). To evaluate its antigenotoxicity, the same doses were used simultaneously with a single i.p. dose of mitomycin C (MMC, 4mg.kg−1). The frequencies of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCE) were evaluated 24 h and 48 h after administration except for the negative control (24 h). Genotoxicity was evaluated using the frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCE), whereas cytotoxicity was assessed by the polychromatic and normochromatic erythrocytes ratio (PCE/NCE). The results showed that CALE did not exhibit a significant reduction in the PCE/NCE ratio, neither a considerable increase in the frequency of MNPCE. Nonetheless, CALE reduced bone marrow toxicity (increased PCE/NCE ratio) and decreased the micronuclei frequency induced by MMC. We can conclude that CALE presented no cytotoxic and genotoxic effects, but showed antigenotoxic and anticytotoxic actions under the experimental conditions applied in this study.
Seismic performance of circular RC columns retrofitted with prefabricated steel wrapping jackets
Authors: Choi Eunsoo , Chung Young-Soo , Park Cheolwoo , Kim Dong Joo
Published: October 2013

This paper presents experimental results on a seismic retrofit of circular reinforced concrete (RC) columns with lap-spliced longitudinal reinforcement using prefabricated steel wrapping jackets. The effects of a split jacket and the use of adhesive were also assessed. A special system to provide external pressure on the steel jackets was devised and the active confining pressure and its effect on the peak strength of concrete were assessed. It was found that the steel wrapping jackets improve the seismic performance of the retrofitted columns by delaying the buckling of longitudinal reinforcing bars and increasing the bond strength at lap-spliced zones; they thus increase ductile behaviour and energy dissipation capacity of the columns in lateral force–displacement response. The split jacket was proved to be effective, but epoxy application did not improve the seismic behaviour of the jacketed RC columns. An equation is proposed to estimate the effective stiffness of ductile reinforced columns for all range of drift ratios. The external pressing method described is effective at increasing the peak flexural strength and ductile behaviour of jacketed columns.
Impact of structures with double concave friction pendulum bearings on adjacent structures
Authors: Khoshnoudian Faramarz , Hemmati T Arash
Published: October 2013

The double concave friction pendulum bearing is a new kind of friction pendulum bearing that consists of two sliding surfaces. To study the seismic responses of three-dimensional base-isolated structures using double concave friction pendulum systems during impact with adjacent structures, after deriving the coupled differential equations of motion, a computer program was developed in order to obtain the time history response of base-isolated structures under earthquake excitations. In the first part of this paper, the seismic response of three-dimensional base-isolated structures using double concave friction pendulum bearings considering tri-linear and bi-linear behaviours without adjacent structures is investigated. The advantages and disadvantages of tri-linear over bi-linear behaviour, considering the principal parameters, are scrutinised. It is demonstrated that using tri-linear double concave friction pendulum bearing behaviour rather than the bi-linear one can decrease the base shear up to 48%. However, tri-linear double concave friction pendulum bearings cause larger displacements of sliding surfaces than bi-linear ones, by up to 57%. The second part of the paper studies the effects of essential parameters such as separation distance, stiffness of impact elements, isolation period and the behaviour of double concave friction pendulum bearings on the seismic response of base-isolated structures using double concave friction pendulum systems during impact with adjacent structures. Numerical simulations demonstrate that base shear force increases significantly and, vice versa, bearing displacement decreases considerably due to impact of the isolated structure with adjacent structures. In addition, the hysteretic curve of the bearing affects the responses of the isolated structure during impact with adjacent structures.
Young Children’s Self-Regulated Learning: A Reflection on Pintrich’s Model From a Microanalytic Perspective
Authors: Wagener Uta
Published: October 2013

This article argues that self-regulated learning (SRL) in the classroom is social and dynamic and has to be examined in its complexity to uncover children’s competencies in this area. A qualitative study on children aged 6–8 years is presented in which observation was combined with interviews to uncover the interplay between children’s actions and reflections. Results and examples are presented showing that children used SRL but showed more of it in the observations than in the interviews. Pintrich’s (2000) model of SRL was used in the analysis and questions, as they have appeared in the analysis, will be discussed. Based on this study, this article argues that it is crucial to always consider social aspects in the investigation of SRL in school and that nonverbal indicators should be included in the analysis. The interaction of explicit and implicit processing is underlined as an important issue for further research.
Use of Facebook as a Teaching Tool in a Veterinary Communications Course
Authors: Root Kustritz Margaret V.
Published: October 2013

First-year veterinary students enrolled in a Professional Development course were invited to join a Facebook group with the goal of having the instructor use that tool to promote student practice of client communication skills. All members of the class were surveyed to determine any difference in educational outcomes between those students who joined the Facebook group (FB) and those who did not (non-FB). Fifty-one students joined the Facebook group out of a class of 99, and 33 responded to the survey. Forty-four of the non-FB students completed the survey, for a total response of 77%. There was no difference between groups in their general use of Facebook. The only educational outcome that differed between the groups was increased practice of communication skills outside of school by the FB group. Students in the FB group cited interest and desire to access all course materials as the most common reason for joining. They were much more likely to read postings than to post anything themselves. Barriers to greater use of the tool by the FB group included lack of time and hesitance to post when others were not. Students were ambivalent about the use of Facebook as an educational tool. The instructor was unaware of the extent of use of the tool until survey results were gathered and felt that it would be most useful as a teaching tool for those instructors who already used Facebook as part of their personal routine.
Improvement in clinical outcomes following optimal targeting of brain ventricular catheters with intraoperative imaging
Authors: Janson Christopher G. , Romanova Liudmila G. , Rudser Kyle D. , Haines Stephen J.
Published: October 2013

Object

The accurate placement of cerebral ventricular shunt catheters in hydrocephalus is an important clinical problem. Malfunction of shunts remains their most common complication and greatest liability, and the influence of catheter position on shunt function remains poorly defined. The objectives of this study were as follows: 1) determine the accuracy of intraventricular catheter placement with respect to a historically favored target, defined as a 1-cm radius sphere at the anterior lip of the ipsilateral foramen of Monro; 2) confirm that this target represents a satisfactory site for frontal and occipital catheter placement by examining whether inaccuracy is associated with more shunt failures; and 3) determine whether catheter trajectory, use of image confirmation, or other factors are associated with either the accuracy or the longevity of shunts.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted on 236 patients with 426 ventricular shunts placed or revised at the University of Minnesota over a 10-year period.

Results

Accuracy of shunt placement was optimal in 43.9% of patients and suboptimal or poor in 56.1% of patients. Time to failure was significantly affected by the accuracy of catheter placement with respect to the ipsilateral foramen of Monro, with a 57% higher risk of failure with suboptimal placement (hazard ratio [HR] 1.57, 95% CI 1.26–1.96; p < 0.001) and a 66% higher risk with poor placement (HR 1.66, 95% CI 1.45–1.89; p < 0.001) relative to optimal placement. The odds of highly suboptimal or unacceptable placement were significantly increased by lack of any intraoperative imaging (OR 5.89, 95% CI 2.36–14.65; p < 0.001). Use of a nonfrontal posterior trajectory also showed a trend toward poor placement (OR 1.64, p = 0.138).

Conclusions

The historical target for catheter tip placement within 1 cm of the foramen of Monro in the ipsilateral lateral ventricle was associated with significantly longer revision-free survival compared with other locations. This effect remained significant after adjusting for age and whether there was a prior history of shunting. The accuracy of catheter placement in both pediatric and adult patients was strongly associated with use of intraoperative fluoroscopic confirmation. In analyses comparing intraoperative fluoroscopy and no imaging, there was a non–statistically significant difference in the 3-year time to failure, but the worst-case scenario of catastrophic short-term failure was almost completely avoided with fluoroscopy. The authors conclude that accuracy of placement is critical for shunt survival, and that use of intraoperative imaging confirmation may optimize outcomes by avoiding the majority of unacceptable placements.
A randomized double-blind crossover trial comparing subthalamic and pallidal deep brain stimulation for dystonia
Authors: Schjerling Lisbeth , Hjermind Lena E. , Jespersen Bo , Madsen Flemming F. , Brennum Jannick , Jensen Steen R. , Løkkegaard Annemette , Karlsborg Merete
Published: October 2013

Object

The authors' aim was to compare the subthalamic nucleus (STN) with the globus pallidus internus (GPi) as a stimulation target for deep brain stimulation (DBS) for medically refractory dystonia.

Methods

In a prospective double-blind crossover study, electrodes were bilaterally implanted in the STN and GPi of 12 patients with focal, multifocal, or generalized dystonia. Each patient was randomly selected to undergo initial bilateral stimulation of either the STN or the GPi for 6 months, followed by bilateral stimulation of the other nucleus for another 6 months. Preoperative and postoperative ratings were assessed by using the Burke-Fahn-Marsden Dystonia Rating Scale (BFMDRS) and video recordings. Quality of life was evaluated by using questionnaires (36-item Short Form Health Survey). Supplemental Toronto Western Spasmodic Torticollis Rating Scale (TWSTRS) scores were assessed for patients with focal dystonia (torticollis) by examining the video recordings.

Results

On average for all patients, DBS improved the BFMDRS movement scores (p < 0.05) and quality of life physical scores (p < 0.01). After stimulation of the STN, the mean 6-month improvement in BFMDRS movement score was 13.8 points; after stimulation of the GPi, this improvement was 9.1 points (p = 0.08). Quality of life did not differ significantly regardless of which nucleus was stimulated. All 12 patients accepted 6 months of stimulation of the STN, but only 7 accepted 6 months of stimulation of the GPi. Among those who rejected stimulation of the GPi, 3 accepted concomitant stimulation of both the STN and GPi for 6 months, resulting in improved quality of life physical and mental scores and BFMDRS movement scores. Among the 4 patients who were rated according to TWSTRS, after 6 months of stimulation of both the STN and GPi, TWSTRS scores improved by 4.7% after stimulation of the GPi and 50.8% after stimulation of the STN (p = 0.08).

Conclusions

The STN seems to be a well-accepted, safe, and promising stimulation target in the treatment of dystonia, but further studies are necessary before the optimal target can be concluded. Simultaneous stimulation of the STN and GPi should be further investigated. Clinical trial registration no.: KF 01-110/01 (Committees on Biomedical Research Ethics of the Capital Region of Denmark).
Decompressive craniectomy for severe traumatic brain injury: is life worth living?
Authors: Honeybul Stephen , Janzen Courtney , Kruger Kate , Ho Kwok M.
Published: October 2013

Object

The object of this study was to assess the long-term outcome and quality of life of patients who have survived with severe disability following decompressive craniectomy for severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

The authors assessed outcome beyond 3 years among a cohort of 39 patients who had been adjudged either severely disabled or in vegetative state 18 months after decompressive craniectomy for TBI. Assessments performed included the Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale, modified Barthel Index (mBI), Zarit Burden Interview, and 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). The issue of retrospective consent for surgery was also assessed.

Results

Of the 39 eligible patients, 7 died, 12 were lost to follow-up, and 20 patients or their next of kin consented to participate in the study. Among those 20 patients, 5 in a vegetative state at 18 months remained so beyond 3 years, and the other 15 patients remained severely disabled after a median follow-up of 5 years. The patients' average daily activity per the mBI (Pearson correlation coefficient [r] = −0.661, p = 0.01) and SF-36 physical score (r = −0.543, p = 0.037) were inversely correlated with the severity of TBI. However, the SF-36 mental scores of the patients were reasonably high (median 46, interquartile range 37–52). The majority of patients and their next of kin believed that they would have provided consent for surgical decompression even if they had known the eventual outcome.

Conclusions

Substantial physical recovery beyond 18 months after decompressive craniectomy for severe TBI was not observed; however, many patients appeared to have recalibrated their expectations regarding what they believed to be an acceptable quality of life.
Breast cancer statistics, 2013
Authors: DeSantis Carol , Ma Jiemin , Bryan Leah , Jemal Ahmedin
Published: October 2013

In this article, the American Cancer Society provides an overview of female breast cancer statistics in the United States, including data on incidence, mortality, survival, and screening. Approximately 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 39,620 breast cancer deaths are expected to occur among US women in 2013. One in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Breast cancer incidence rates increased slightly among African American women; decreased among Hispanic women; and were stable among whites, Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders, and American Indians/Alaska Natives from 2006 to 2010. Historically, white women have had the highest breast cancer incidence rates among women aged 40 years and older; however, incidence rates are converging among white and African American women, particularly among women aged 50 years to 59 years. Incidence rates increased for estrogen receptor‐positive breast cancers in the youngest white women, Hispanic women aged 60 years to 69 years, and all but the oldest African American women. In contrast, estrogen receptor‐negative breast cancers declined among most age and racial/ethnic groups. These divergent trends may reflect etiologic heterogeneity and the differing effects of some factors, such as obesity and parity, on risk by tumor subtype. Since 1990, breast cancer death rates have dropped by 34% and this decrease was evident in all racial/ethnic groups except American Indians/Alaska Natives. Nevertheless, survival disparities persist by race/ethnicity, with African American women having the poorest breast cancer survival of any racial/ethnic group. Continued progress in the control of breast cancer will require sustained and increased efforts to provide high‐quality screening, diagnosis, and treatment to all segments of the population. CA Cancer J Clin 2014;64:52–62. © 2013 American Cancer Society, Inc.