bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phorbol ester, vascular relaxation, and cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate.
Authors: Lockette W , Brennaman B , Otsuka Y
Published: September 2013

The relaxation of phenylephrine-contracted blood vessels by acetylcholine, nitroprusside, or atrial natriuretic factor has been linked to elevations in cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cGMP). Also, 8-bromo-cGMP can induce vascular relaxation in isolated vascular smooth muscle contracted with phenylephrine. We determined whether these cGMP-dependent vasodilators could relax isolated rat aortas contracted with the phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate. cGMP was measured by radioimmunoassay. Acetylcholine, nitroprusside, and atrial natriuretic factor induced relaxation in vascular smooth muscle contracted by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate. These relaxation responses were accompanied by elevations of cGMP. However, the sensitivity to these vasodilators was markedly decreased in phorbol ester-contracted vessels compared to phenylephrine-contracted vessels. Nifedipine and superoxide dismutase induced small but significant relaxations in phorbol ester-contracted vessels; however, blood vessels contracted with phenylephrine and phorbol ester relaxed completely with papaverine. There was a marked decrease in sensitivity to 8-bromo-cGMP in phorbol ester-treated vessels compared to phenylephrine-contracted vessels. Contractions induced by phorbol ester were not inhibited by amiloride or chlorpromazine. Also, following incubation in potassium-free salt solution, vessels incubated with phenylephrine or phenylephrine and phorbol ester underwent similar relaxations when exposed to potassium chloride. The contractile state induced by phorbol ester has decreased sensitivity to cGMP-dependent vasodilators. This may be due to nonspecific effects of the phorbol ester or to the mechanism by which protein kinase C activation maintains vascular tone.
Time Course of Shape and Category Selectivity Revealed by EEG Rapid Adaptation
Authors: Scholl Clara A. , Jiang Xiong , Martin Jacob G. , Riesenhuber Maximilian
Published: September 2013

A hallmark of human cognition is the ability to rapidly assign meaning to sensory stimuli. It has been suggested that this fast visual object categorization ability is accomplished by a feedforward processing hierarchy consisting of shape-selective neurons in occipito-temporal cortex that feed into task circuits in frontal cortex computing conceptual category membership. We performed an EEG rapid adaptation study to test this hypothesis. Participants were trained to categorize novel stimuli generated with a morphing system that precisely controlled both stimulus shape and category membership. We subsequently performed EEG recordings while participants performed a category matching task on pairs of successively presented stimuli. We used space–time cluster analysis to identify channels and latencies exhibiting selective neural responses. Neural signals before 200 msec on posterior channels demonstrated a release from adaptation for shape changes, irrespective of category membership, compatible with a shape- but not explicitly category-selective neural representation. A subsequent cluster with anterior topography appeared after 200 msec and exhibited release from adaptation consistent with explicit categorization. These signals were subsequently modulated by perceptual uncertainty starting around 300 msec. The degree of category selectivity of the anterior signals was strongly predictive of behavioral performance. We also observed a posterior category-selective signal after 300 msec exhibiting significant functional connectivity with the initial anterior category-selective signal. In summary, our study supports the proposition that perceptual categorization is accomplished by the brain within a quarter second through a largely feedforward process culminating in frontal areas, followed by later category-selective signals in posterior regions.
Toward Nonlinear Local Reinforcement Learning Rules Through Neuroevolution
Authors: Vassiliades Vassilis , Christodoulou Chris
Published: September 2013

We consider the problem of designing local reinforcement learning rules for artificial neural network (ANN) controllers. Motivated by the universal approximation properties of ANNs, we adopt an ANN representation for the learning rules, which are optimized using evolutionary algorithms. We evaluate the ANN rules in partially observable versions of four tasks: the mountain car, the acrobot, the cart pole balancing, and the nonstationary mountain car. For testing whether such evolved ANN-based learning rules perform satisfactorily, we compare their performance with the performance of SARSA([Formula: see text]) with tile coding, when the latter is provided with either full or partial state information. The comparison shows that the evolved rules perform much better than SARSA([Formula: see text]) with partial state information and are comparable to the one with full state information, while in the case of the nonstationary environment, the evolved rule is much more adaptive. It is therefore clear that the proposed approach can be particularly effective in both partially observable and nonstationary environments. Moreover, it could potentially be utilized toward creating more general rules that can be applied in multiple domains and transfer learning scenarios.
Guanxi and Gospel: Conversion to Seventh-day Adventism in Contemporary China
Authors: Chui-Shan Chow Christie
Published: September 2013

This article studies the symbiotic relationship between social networks and Christian conversion among some Seventh-day Adventists in contemporary China. Drawing on the Chinese Adventist testimonies, I argue that the longstanding kinship, friendship, and discipleship networks (guanxi 關係) are fundamental to the Adventist conversion process. This extensive web of human relationships helps sustain potential converts’ interest in Christianity, nurture their understanding of Adventism, and reinforce their efforts to cultivate a distinctive Christian selfhood and identity in Adventist terms. These relationships also give meaning to the Adventist congregational practices such as Sabbath observance and healthy lifestyle, insofar as the converts rely on the relational resources of the family and church for support. In addition to the positive connection between social mobility and conversion, these stories reveal the challenge of downward social mobility when the converts are confronted with the tension between adhering to Adventist doctrinal practices and pursuing higher education in secular institutions. Lastly, this study addresses the function of Christian publication in the conversion process. Through the publication of their conversion testimonies, the converts seek to make Adventism easily accessible to ordinary people by showing the relation between Adventist theology and the daily lives of Christians.
A new species of Syzygium (Myrtaceae) from Kerala, India
Authors: SHAREEF S.M. , KUMAR SANTHOSH , ROY P.E.
Published: September 2013

A new species of Syzygium, S. chemunjianum is described and illustrated from the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve, southern Western Ghats, Kerala, India. It is similar to S. tamilnadensis but differs from it in habit, colour and nature of blaze, shape of leaves, number of intramarginal nerves, position of inflorescence, the colour, size and shape of fruits and size of seeds.
Andropogon × guaraniticus (Andropogoneae, Poaceae): a name for a natural hybrid from northeastern Argentina
Authors: NAGAHAMA NICOLÁS , ANTON ANA M. , NORRMANN GUILLERMO A.
Published: September 2013

A natural hybrid between Andropogon macrothrix and Andropogon selloanus from northeastern Argentina is named Andropogon × guaraniticus. A taxonomic treatment of A. × guaraniticus and an identification key including the parental species are presented.
Two new Monophyllaea (Gesneriaceae) species from Sarawak, Borneo
Authors: KIEW RUTH , JULIA SANG
Published: September 2013

Two new species, Monophyllaea grandifolia Kiew & S.Julia and Monophyllaea meriraiensis Kiew & S.Julia are described from limestone hills in Ulu Merirai, Tatau District, Sarawak. Descriptions and photographs of the two species are provided.
A new species of Zeuxine (Cranichidae; Orchidaceae) from Hainan, China
Authors: LI LIN , LI SHI-JIN
Published: September 2013

Zeuxine Lindley (1826: 19; Orchidaceae) comprises around 70 species widely distributed in tropical and southern Africa, Madagascar, tropical and subtropical Asia, to New Guinea, northeastern Australia, and the Pacific Islands (Pearce & Cribb 2002, Pridgeon et al. 2003). It belongs to subtribe Goodyerinae (Cranichideae; Orchidoideae; Pridgeon et al. 2003). The genus is mainly terrestrial but can rarely found as epiphytic or lithophytic herbs. So far, fourteen species (two endemic) have been recorded in China (Chen et al. 2009).
The male of Tengella perfuga Dahl, 1901 with re-description of the female and comparisons with T. radiata (Kulczynski, 1909) (Araneae: Tengellidae)
Authors: LEISTER MATTHEW , MALLIS RACHAEL , MILLER KELLY
Published: September 2013

Tengella perfuga Dahl, 1901, is the type species for Tengella, the type genus for the family Tengellidae Dahl, 1908. Here, the males are described for the first time and females re-described based on new specimens collected in Nicaragua. We confirm the species status of T. perfuga (instead of previously suggested synonymy with Tengella radiata (Kulczynski, 1909)), since the colour pattern and genitalia of both sexes, particularly the palp RTA and the epigynal median septum, are unique in the genus. Important diagnostic features are illustrated for both males and females. Also new distribution records are reported for T. perfuga from Nicaragua and T. radiata from Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama.
Social and Hydrological Responses to Extreme Precipitations: An Interdisciplinary Strategy for Postflood Investigation
Authors: Ruin Isabelle , Lutoff Céline , Boudevillain Brice , Creutin Jean-Dominique , Anquetin S. , Rojo M. Bertran , Boissier L. , Bonnifait L. , Borga M. , Colbeau-Justin L. , Creton-Cazanave L. , Delrieu G. , Douvinet J. , Gaume E. , Gruntfest E. , Naulin J.-P. , Payrastre O. , Vannier O.
Published: September 2013

This paper describes and illustrates a methodology to conduct postflood investigations based on interdisciplinary collaboration between social and physical scientists. The method, designed to explore the link between crisis behavioral response and hydrometeorological dynamics, aims at understanding the spatial and temporal capacities and constraints on human behaviors in fast-evolving hydrometeorological conditions. It builds on methods coming from both geosciences and transportations studies to complement existing postflood field investigation methodology used by hydrometeorologists. The authors propose an interview framework, structured around a chronological guideline to allow people who experienced the flood firsthand to tell the stories of the circumstances in which their activities were affected during the flash flood.

This paper applies the data collection method to the case of the 15 June 2010 flash flood event that killed 26 people in the Draguignan area (Var, France). As a first step, based on the collected narratives, an abductive approach allowed the identification of the possible factors influencing individual responses to flash floods. As a second step, behavioral responses were classified into categories of activities based on the respondents' narratives. Then, aspatial and temporal analysis of the sequences made of the categories of action to contextualize the set of coping responses with respect to local hydrometeorological conditions is proposed. During this event, the respondents mostly follow the pace of change in their local environmental conditions as the flash flood occurs, official flood anticipation being rather limited and based on a large-scale weather watch. Therefore, contextual factors appear as strongly influencing the individual's ability to cope with the event in such a situation.
Local Energy Transition and Multilevel Climate Governance: The Contrasted Experiences of Two Pioneer Cities (Hanover, Germany, and Växjö, Sweden)
Authors: Emelianoff Cyria
Published: September 2013

In the context of climate protection policies, this article addresses the post-carbon transitions driven by a few cities. It investigates the political dimension and multilevel character of these transitions: political, because they gain initial impetus from environmentalist associations, are maintained over time by uncommon political will and give rise to politically divergent transition paths; multilevel, because the upsurge of local climate policies results from the alliance between transnational municipal networks, international institutions and cities, with cross-influences between these levels. Additionally, the analysis of contrasted paths towards exiting fossil fuel followed by two ‘pilot’ cities (Hanover and Växjö), the conditions of their success and limitations encountered, highlights another component of this multilevel character: the weight of national or federal support for local climate action and of influence between political actions performed at different levels, which appear to broaden the scope of urban energy transitions.
Advancements in Marginal Modeling for Categorical Data
Authors: Bergsma Wicher P. , Croon Marcel A. , Hagenaars Jacques A.
Published: September 2013

Very often the data collected by social scientists involve dependent observations, without, however, the investigators having any substantive interest in the nature of the dependencies. Although these dependencies are not important for the answers to the research questions concerned, they must still be taken into account in the analysis. Standard statistical estimation and testing procedures assume independent and identically distributed observations, and they need to be modified for observations that are clustered in some way. Marginal models provide the tools to deal with these dependencies without having to make restrictive assumptions about their nature. In this paper, recent developments in the (maximum likelihood) estimation and testing of marginal models for categorical data will be explained, including marginal models with latent variables. The differences and commonalities with other ways of dealing with these nuisance dependencies will be discussed, especially with GEE and also briefly with (hierarchical) random coefficient models. The usefulness of marginal modeling will be illuminated by showing several common types of research questions and designs for which marginal models may provide the answers, along with two extensive real world examples. Finally, a brief evaluation will be given, including a discussion of shortcomings and strong points as well as computer programs and future work to be done.
Driving Perioperative Nutrition Quality Improvement Processes Forward!
Authors: Heyland Daren K. , Dhaliwal Rupinder , Cahill Naomi E. , Carli Franco , Flum David , Ko Clifford , Kozar Rosemary , Drover John W. , McClave Stephen A.
Published: September 2013

Evidence supporting the important role of nutrition therapy in surgical patients has evolved, with several randomized trials and meta‐analyses of randomized trials clearly demonstrating benefits. Despite this evidence, surgeons and anesthesiologists have been slow to adopt recommended practices, and the traditional dogma of delaying the initiation of and restricting the amount of nutrition during the postoperative period persists. Consequently, the nutrition therapy received by surgical patients remains suboptimal; thus, patients suffer worse clinical outcomes. Knowledge translation (KT) describes the process of moving evidence learned from clinical research, and summarized in clinical practice guidelines, to its incorporation into clinical and policy decision making. In this paper, we apply Graham et al's knowledge‐to‐action model to illuminate our understanding of the issues pertinent to KT in surgical nutrition. We illustrate various components of this model using empirically derived research, commentaries, and published studies from both critical care and surgical nutrition. Barriers to improving surgical nutrition practice may be related to (1) the nature of the underlying evidence and clinical practice guidelines; (2) guideline implementation factors; (3) characteristics of the health system, hospital, and surgical team; (4) provider attitudes and beliefs; and (5) patient factors (eg, type of surgery, underlying disease, and nutrition status). Interventions tailored to overcoming these barriers must be developed, evaluated, and implemented. A system of audit and feedback must guide this process and evaluate improvements over time so that every patient undergoing major surgery will have the opportunity to be optimally assessed and managed according to best nutrition practices.
Factors That Impact Patient Outcome
Authors: Lawson Christy M. , Daley Brian J. , Sams Valerie G. , Martindale Robert , Kudsk Kenneth A. , Miller Keith R.
Published: September 2013

Defining malnutrition and nutrition risk has been a topic of many papers and discussions throughout the modern literature. Multiple definitions have been proposed, ranging from simple body weight measurements to a more all‐encompassing concept looking at disease‐specific inflammatory states. Biochemical markers, elements of a history examination, physical examination findings, calculations, and technical tests have all been proposed to help further characterize and delineate those who might be at risk for malnutrition, translating to an increased risk of adverse outcomes after major surgery. The purpose of this paper is to summarize some of the most utilized and most reliable ways to determine nutrition status within the scope of the North American Surgical Nutrition Summit (2012) and discuss how to incorporate these methods into the way that patients are screened preoperatively for elective surgery.
Stochastic surveillance strategies for spatial quickest detection
Authors: Srivastava Vaibhav , Pasqualetti Fabio , Bullo Francesco
Published: September 2013

We design persistent surveillance strategies for the quickest detection of anomalies taking place in an environment of interest. From a set of predefined regions in the environment, a team of autonomous vehicles collects noisy observations, which a control center processes. The overall objective is to minimize detection delay while maintaining the false-alarm rate below a desired threshold. We present joint (i) anomaly detection algorithms for the control center and (ii) vehicle routing policies. For the control center, we propose parallel cumulative sum (CUSUM) algorithms (one for each region) to detect anomalies from noisy observations. For the vehicles, we propose a stochastic routing policy, in which the regions to be visited are chosen according to a probability vector. We study stationary routing policy (the probability vector is constant) as well as adaptive routing policies (the probability vector varies in time as a function of the likelihood of regional anomalies). In the context of stationary policies, we design a performance metric and minimize it to design an efficient stationary routing policy. Our adaptive policy improves upon the stationary counterpart by adaptively increasing the selection probability of regions with high likelihood of anomaly. Finally, we show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms through numerical simulations and a persistent surveillance experiment.
Influence of machining parameters on forces and surface roughness during finish hard turning of EN 31 steel
Authors: Bartarya Gaurav , Choudhury Sounak K
Published: September 2013

Tool forces and surface finish are often used as measures to evaluate the performance of a machining process. Cutting parameters have their own influence on the forces and surface finish. In this study, the forces and surface finish produced during turning of hardened EN31 steel (equivalent to AISI 52100 grade) have been analyzed. Uncoated cubic boron nitride insert was used as a tool. Regression analysis was made to establish the dependency of force and surface roughness on cutting parameters. The predictions from the developed regression equations were compared with the measured forces and roughness data. Analysis of variance was undertaken to measure the goodness of fit of the measured data. The models, developed for prediction of forces and surface roughness, were found significant. The most significant parameter affecting the forces was the depth of cut. Feed was also found to be a significant parameter. In most of the cases, cutting speed had only a marginal influence. The influence of cutting speed, feed and depth of cut on the forces was studied. A favorable range of the cutting parameter values was obtained for energy-efficient machining. It was also established that for the conditions of most efficient cut, the surface finish produced was reasonably acceptable.
Combined use of multiday palonosetron with aprepitant and low-dose dexamethasone in prevention of nausea and emesis among patients with multiple myeloma and lymphoma undergoing autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant: A pilot study
Authors: Deauna-Limayo Delva , Aljitawi Omar S , Ganguly Siddhartha , Abhyankar Sunil , Wick Jo A , McGuirk Joseph P
Published: September 2013

Background

The current standard for prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea/vomiting in autologous stem cell transplant only achieves 4–20% emetic control.

Objectives

To assess emetic responses to multiday palonosetron, aprepitant, and low-dose dexamethasone among patients with myeloma and lymphoma undergoing autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant.

Methods

Oral aprepitant 125/80/80 mg was administered with intravenous dexamethasone 4 mg and palonosetron 0.25 mg on days −3, −2, −1 for multiple myeloma and days −7 through −3 for lymphoma. Palonosetron was repeated day +3 in both groups.

Results

A total of 20 patients were enrolled and 18 analyzed. None experienced emetic failure with complete control achieved in 78, 33, and 17% in the acute, delayed, and extended phases, respectively. Nausea occurred in 78% although not significant in 61%, with median Nausea Visual Score of 4.5. Quality of life correlated with emetic and nausea control. Eight patients developed grade 2–3 nonhematologic toxicities with only one event attributed to the study medications.

Conclusions

This triplet regimen was feasible with acceptable safety profile in the autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant setting. Emetic control was best achieved in the acute phase. Lesser degree of emetic and nausea control in the delayed and extended phases impacted quality of life. Our results warrant further evaluation in a larger autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant population.
Core, periphery and (neo)imperialist International Relations
Authors: Tickner Arlene B.
Published: September 2013

This article analyzes the core–periphery dynamics that characterize the International Relations discipline. To this end, it explores general insights offered by both science studies and the social sciences in terms of the intellectual division of labor that characterizes knowledge-building throughout the world, and the social mechanisms that reproduce power differentials within given fields of study. These arguments are then applied to International Relations, where specific factors that explain the global South’s role as a periphery to the discipline’s (mainly US) core and the ways in which peripheral communities place themselves vis-à-vis International Relations’ (neo)imperialist structure are both explored.
The use of global positioning systems in promoting safer walking for people with dementia
Authors: Mckinstry Brian , Sheikh Aziz
Published: September 2013

There are about 5 million people in Europe who have dementia, approximately half of whom need daily care. A common reason why dementia sufferers are admitted to long-term care is because of “wandering”, i.e. leaving home without informing a carer, thereby potentially putting themselves at risk. Common methods of managing wandering include locking doors or alerting carers when a door is opened. A new method of managing wandering is by using electronic location devices. These depend on the satellite-based global positioning system (GPS). People can wear a location device in the form of a watch or pendant, or carry it like a mobile phone. This offers affected individuals the possibility of safe walking, with the reassurance that they can be found quickly if lost. However, it is not known how effective this method is and its use raises questions about safety and individual civil liberties. GPS location is a potentially useful method of managing wandering in dementia and there is considerable pressure on caregivers from commercial organisations to adopt the technique. Research is therefore required to determine which people are best suited for such devices, how effective they are in practice and what effect they have on important outcomes.
A teleconsultation network improves the efficacy of anti-VEGF therapy in retinal diseases
Authors: Azzolini Claudio , Torreggiani Aldo , Eandi Chiara , Donati Simone , Oum Muna Al , Vinciguerra Riccardo , Bartalena Luigi , Tartaglia Valerio
Published: September 2013

We investigated the care of patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) managed via a physician-to-physician teleconsultation network for ophthalmology. Eleven groups of ophthalmologists took part in the study. The groups were located in 10 cities across Italy. Each group was based on a Retina Centre located at a university or hospital, with one or two expert ophthalmologists (20 expert ophthalmologists in total). In each region containing a Retina Centre, 6-10 general ophthalmologists (94 ophthalmologists in total) referred patients via the network for a period of three months between June 2011 and December 2012. An automatic grading system quantified the risk of disease progression, and a remote booking system allowed the referring ophthalmologist to make appointments directly with the appropriate Retina Centre. There were 360 network patients and 318 control patients (consecutive patients undergoing usual care during the previous three months). The time delay before therapy was significantly shorter in the network patients (mean 5.5 days) compared with the usual care patients (mean 28.7 days; P < 0.0001). There was a significant improvement in visual acuity in the network patients after treatment (first visit = 0.29 logMAR; after treatment = 0.22 logMAR; P < 0.05). In contrast, there was no improvement in the usual care patients (first visit = 0.29 logMAR; after treatment = 0.27 logMAR; P > 0.05). The telemedicine network allows regional ophthalmologists to quantify the risk of disease progression, and to send patients to a Retina Centre quickly and easily, when required.
Knowledge of psychiatric terms and concepts among Kenyan youth: Analysis of focus group discussions
Authors: Mamah Daniel , Striley Catherine W. , Ndetei David M. , Mbwayo Anne W. , Mutiso Victoria N. , Khasakhala Lincoln I. , Cottler Linda B.
Published: September 2013

Psychiatric disorders and symptoms are common worldwide. However, cultural differences in symptom manifestation and knowledge of psychiatric terms and concepts represent a challenge to accurate clinical assessment. Our previous youth surveys revealed higher rates of psychotic experiences in Kenya compared to several other countries, suggesting culture may influence psychosis risk assessment survey results. The goal of the present investigation is to evaluate understanding of general mental health related terms and concepts and specific items from the Structured Interview for Psychosis-Risk Symptoms (SIPS), a commonly used psychosis risk assessment instrument. Six focus groups were conducted in Nairobi, Kenya and surrounding areas with young adults from the community, university and secondary school students, and mental health professionals. Analysis of the information obtained from participants indicated that adolescents and young adults in Kenya were aware of mental illness in their communities, but had very limited knowledge of the meaning of specific psychiatric disorders and symptoms. Many believed that the cause of mental illness was spiritual in nature. These results suggest that in order to obtain accurate reported rates of psychiatric symptoms, assessment of Kenyan adolescents and young adults requires elaboration of assessment questions and use of simplified terms.
Antioxidant and Cholinesterase Inhibitory Activity of a New Peptide From Ziziphus jujuba Fruits
Authors: Zare-Zardini Hadi , Tolueinia Behnaz , Hashemi Azam , ebrahimi Leila , Fesahat Farzaneh
Published: September 2013

Antioxidant agents and cholinesterase inhibitors are the foremost drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In this study, a new peptide from Ziziphus jujuba fruits was investigated for its inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) enzymes as well as antioxidant activity. This peptide was introduced as a new peptide and named Snakin-Z. The Snakin-Z displayed considerable cholinesterase inhibition against AChE and BChE. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of Snakin-Z against AChE and BChE are 0.58 ± 0.08 and 0.72 ± 0.085 mg/mL, respectively. This peptide has 80% enzyme inhibitory activity on AChE and BChE at 1.5 mg/mL. The Snakin-Z also had the high antioxidant activity (IC50 = 0.75 ± 0.09 mg/mL). Thus, it is suggested that Snakin-Z may be beneficial in the treatment of AD. However, more detailed researches are still required as in vivo testing its anticholinesterase and antioxidant activities.
Bayer-Activities of Daily Living Scale in Mild and Moderate Dementia of the Alzheimer Type
Authors: Nagaratnam Nages , Nagaratnam Kujan , O’Mara Deborah
Published: September 2013

The main purpose of this study is to examine the reliability of the Bayer-Activities of Daily Living (B-ADL) scale when used as a cognitive screening instrument for mild and moderate dementia of the Alzheimer type. This is a retrospective study of 66 patients with dementia. The B-ADL scale was completed by the caregiver or the family member at the first encounter. The internal consistency was found to be 0.94 for the 27 patients that completed all 25 questions in the scale. Significant correlation and receiver–operating characteristic curve analysis were found for the B-ADL total score and subscale 1 (tasks requiring short- and long-term memory) for Clinical Dementia Rating scale. Severity of dementia by the B-ADL scale is statistically similar but not the same as Mini-Mental State Examination. Our findings confirm that B-ADL scale is a valid indicator of the cognitive status of patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
Isolated Aphasic Status Epilepticus as Initial Presentation of Nonketotic Hyperglycemia
Authors: Huang Ling-Chun , Ruge Diane , Tsai Chin-Ling , Wu Meng-Ni , Hsu Chung-Yao , Lai Chiou-Lian , Liou Li-Min
Published: September 2013

Diagnosis of aphasic status epilepticus is sometimes not easy because of its rarity and electroclinical dissociation. Although most cases are associated with organic brain lesions, nonketotic hyperglycemia (NKH)–related aphasic status epilepticus is rare, especially if it is isolated (without other clinical seizure activity). On the other hand, unlike other metabolic disorders, or hypoglycemia-related generalized seizures, focal motor seizure and epilepsia partialis continua can occur in 25% of NKH, with seizures being the initial manifestation in up to 50% of patients. However, the presentation of epileptic aphasia is rare in NKH patients. We report a rare case of NKH presenting initially as persistent and isolated aphasic status epilepticus. Brain magnetic resonance imaging did not reveal any focal lesion, but ictal electroencephalography (EEG) disclosed left frontotemporal continuous theta to delta waves, intermingled with epileptiform discharges. Correcting the hyperglycemia failed to improve the language disorder, and the seizure was controlled only by the addition of carbamazepine. Patients with NKH may initially present with isolated aphasic status epilepticus. Unlike stroke-related aphasia, accurate diagnosis is difficult if based solely on neurologic examination and brain neuroimaging. Use of EEG and blood sugar determination should be helpful in this special condition.
Meristematic cell proliferation and ribosome biogenesis are decoupled in diamagnetically levitated Arabidopsis seedlings
Authors: Manzano Ana Isabel , Larkin Oliver J , Dijkstra Camelia E , Anthony Paul , Davey Michael R , Eaves Laurence , Hill Richard JA , Herranz Raul , Medina F Javier
Published: September 2013

Background

Cell growth and cell proliferation are intimately linked in the presence of Earth’s gravity, but are decoupled under the microgravity conditions present in orbiting spacecraft. New technologies to simulate microgravity conditions for long-duration experiments, with stable environmental conditions, in Earth-based laboratories are required to further our understanding of the effect of extraterrestrial conditions on the growth, development and health of living matter.

Results

We studied the response of transgenic seedlings of Arabidopsis thaliana, containing either the CycB1-GUS proliferation marker or the DR5-GUS auxin-mediated growth marker, to diamagnetic levitation in the bore of a superconducting solenoid magnet. As a control, a second set of seedlings were exposed to a strong magnetic field, but not to levitation forces. A third set was exposed to a strong field and simulated hypergravity (2 g). Cell proliferation and cell growth cytological parameters were measured for each set of seedlings. Nucleolin immunodetection was used as a marker of cell growth. Collectively, the data indicate that these two fundamental cellular processes are decoupled in root meristems, as in microgravity: cell proliferation was enhanced whereas cell growth markers were depleted. These results also demonstrated delocalisation of auxin signalling in the root tip despite the fact that levitation of the seedling as a whole does not prevent the sedimentation of statoliths in the root cells.

Conclusions

In our model system, we found that diamagnetic levitation led to changes that are very similar to those caused by real- [e.g. on board the International Space Station (ISS)] or mechanically-simulated microgravity [e.g. using a Random Positioning Machine (RPM)]. These changes decoupled meristematic cell proliferation from ribosome biogenesis, and altered auxin polar transport.
Etiological study of enteric viruses and the genetic diversity of norovirus, sapovirus, adenovirus, and astrovirus in children with diarrhea in Chongqing, China
Authors: Ren Zengzhi , Kong Yuanmei , Wang Jun , Wang Qianqian , Huang Ailong , Xu Hongmei
Published: September 2013

Background

Enteric viruses are a major cause of diarrhea in children, especially those <5 years old. Identifying the viral agents is critical to the development of effective preventive measures. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of common enteric viruses in children <5 years old presented with diarrhea to the Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University.

Methods

Five hundred fecal samples were collected between August and November 2010 from children <5 years of age who presented with acute diarrhea at the Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University. All samples were tested for rotaviruses A, B, and C, noroviruses GI and GII, adenovirus, sapovirus, and astrovirus using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), or PCR. Partial sequences of norovirus, sapovirus, adenovirus, and astrovirus were phylogenetically analyzed to determine the genotype.

Results

Enteric viruses were detected in 302 of the 500 children who presented with acute diarrhea (277/477; 58.07%) and persistent diarrhea (5/23; 21.74%). In 277 samples from children with acute diarrhea in whom at least one viral agent was found, rotavirus A was the most frequent virus identified (132 cases; 27.67%), followed by norovirus GII in 130 cases (27.25%), adenovirus in 30 cases (6.29%), sapovirus in 9 cases (1.89%) and astrovirus in one case (0.21%). Twenty-two of the norovirus GII-positive cases were randomly selected for genotyping. GII/4 was the predominant strain, followed by GII/6, GII/2, GII/3, and GII/7. Sapovirus was classified into four genotypes: GI/1 was predominant, followed by GI/2, GII/1, and GIV. The predominant adenovirus was type 41. Mixed infections were found in 25 cases, all of which presented with acute diarrhea (25/477; 5.24%). Viruses were positive in 5/23 (21.74%) cases with persistent diarrhea. Neither rotavirus B, rotavirus C, nor norovirus GI were found in any of the samples.

Conclusions

Enteric viruses are a major cause of diarrhea in children <5 years old in Chongqing. Rotavirus A is the most common etiological agent, follow by norovirus.
Clinical spectrum of rhabdomyolysis presented to pediatric emergency department
Authors: Chen Chun-Yu , Lin Yan-Ren , Zhao Lu-Lu , Yang Wen-Chieh , Chang Yu-Jun , Wu Kang-Hsi , Wu Han-Ping
Published: September 2013

Background

Rhabdomyolysis is a potentially life-threatening syndrome that can develop from a variety of causes. The aim of the work is to analyze the clinical spectrum and to evaluate the prevalence of various etiologies in children, who present to the emergency department (ED) with rhabdomyolysis.

Methods

During a 6-year study period, we retrospectively analyzed the medical charts of patients, aged 18 years or younger, with a definite diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis and serum creatinine phosphokinase (CK) levels greater than 1000IU/L. We analyzed the clinical spectrum and evaluated the potential risk factors of acute renal failure (ARF).

Results

Thirty-seven patients (mean age = 10.2 ± 5.5 years), including 26 males and 11 females, were enrolled in the study. Two of the most common presented symptoms in these 37 patients were muscle pain and muscle weakness (83.8% and 73%, respectively). Dark urine was reported in only 5.4% of the patients. The leading cause of rhabdomyolysis in the 0- to 9-year age group was presumed infection, and the leading cause in the 10- to 18-year age group was trauma and exercise. The incidence of ARF associated with rhabdomyolysis was 8.1 % and no child needed for renal replacement therapy (RRT). We did not identify any reliable predictors of ARF or need for RRT.

Conclusions

The classic triad of symptoms of rhabdomyolysis includes myalgia, weakness and dark urine are not always presented in children. The cause of rhabdomyolysis in younger age is different from that of teenager group. However, the prognosis of rhabdomyolysis was good with appropriate management.
Effect of GSTM2-5polymorphisms in relation to tobacco smoke exposures on lung function growth: a birth cohort study
Authors: Alexander Melannie , Karmaus Wilfried , Holloway John W , Zhang Hongmei , Roberts Graham , Kurukulaaratchy Ramesh J , Arshad Syed Hasan , Ewart Susan
Published: September 2013

Background

Genetic variation within GSTM2-5 genes may interfere with detoxification of environmental compounds, thereby having a detrimental effect on lung function following exposures such as tobacco smoke. We aim to investigate the influence of variants and associated methylation in the GSTM gene cluster with changes in lung function growth during adolescence.

Methods

Growth in forced expiratory volume (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and change in FEV1/FVC ratio measures were obtained from children in the Isle of Wight birth cohort at ages 10 and 18. Illumina GoldenGate assays were used to genotype 10 tagging polymorphisms from GSTM2 (rs574344 and rs12024479), GSTM3 (rs1537236, rs7483, and rs10735234), GSTM4 (rs668413, rs560018, and rs506008), and GSTM5 (rs929166 and rs11807) genes. Diplotypes were generated in the software Phase 3.0.2. DNA methylation was measured in over 450,000 CpG sites using the Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChip (Illumina 450K) in a subsample of 245 18-year olds from the Isle of Wight birth cohort. Gender, age, in utero smoke exposure, secondhand smoke exposure (SHS), and current smoking status were assessed via questionnaire; smoke exposures were validated with urine cotinine. We used linear mixed models to estimate the effect of GSTM diplotypes on lung function across time and examine interactions with tobacco smoke.

Results

1,121 (77%) out of 1,456 children had information on lung function at ages 10 or 18. After adjustment for false discovery rate, one diplotype in GSTM3 had a detrimental effect on changes in FEV1 (p=0.03), and another diplotype in GSTM3 reduced FVC (p=0.02) over time. No significant interactions with smoking were identified. SHS significantly modified the relationship between diplotypes and methylation levels in one GSTM2 CpG site; however, this site did not predict lung function outcomes at age 18. Joint effects of GSTM loci and CpG sites located within these loci on adolescent lung growth were detected.

Conclusions

Diplotypes within GSTM2-5 genes are associated with lung function growth across adolescence, but do not appear to modify the effect of tobacco smoke exposures on adolescent lung growth. Interactions between DNA methylation and diplotypes should be taken into account to gain further understanding on lung function in adolescence.
In vitro biological assessment of berberis vulgaris and its active constituent, berberine: antioxidants, anti-acetylcholinesterase, anti-diabetic and anticancer effects
Authors: Abd El-Wahab Abeer E , Ghareeb Doaa A , Sarhan Eman EM , Abu-Serie Marwa M , El Demellawy Maha A
Published: September 2013

Background

Berberis vulgarisis a well known plant with traditional herbal medical history. The aims of this study was to bioscreen and compare thein vitrobiological activity (antioxidant, cholinergic, antidaibetic and the anticancer) of barberry crude extract and berberine active compound.

Methods

The effect ofB. vulgarisextract and berberine chloride on cellular thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) formation, diphenyle–α-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) oxidation, cellular nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging capability, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and α-gulcosidase activities were spectrophotometrically determined. On the other hand, the effect of extract and berberine as anticancer was estimated on three different cell lines which were MCF-7, HepG-2, and Caco-2 cells by using neutral red uptake assay which compared with control normal cells (PBMC).

Results

Our results showed that barberry crude extract contains 0.6 mg berberine/mg crude extract. Barberry extract showed potent antioxidative capacity through decreasing TBARS, NO and the oxidation of DPPH that associated with GPx and SOD hyperactivation. Inhibitory effect ofberberiscrude extract on α-glucosidase was more potent than that of berberine chloride, while both had the same AChE inhibitory effect. Besides, different concentrations of both berberine chloride and barberry ethanolic extract showed to have no growth inhibitory effect on normal blood cells (PBMC). Otherwise, both berberine chloride and barberry ethanolic extract showed to have inhibitory effect on the growth of breast, liver and colon cancer cell lines (MCF7, HepG2 and CACO-2, respectively) at different incubation times starting from 24 hrs up to 72 hrs and the inhibitory effect increased with time in a dose dependant manner.

Conclusion

This work demonstrates the potential of the barberry crude extract and its active alkaloid, berberine, on suppressing lipid peroxidation, suggesting a promising use in the treatment of hepatic oxidative stress, Alzheimer and idiopathic male factor infertility. Beside, berberis vulgarisethanolic extract is safe non-toxic extract as it was not inhibit the growth of PBMC that can induce cancer cell death that could return to its powerful antioxidant activity.
Decreasing incidence of Plasmodium vivax in the Republic of Korea during 2010–2012
Authors: Kim Tong-Soo , Kim Jin Su , Na Byoung-Kuk , Lee Won-Ja , Kim Heung-Chul , Youn Seung-Ki , Gwack Jin , Kim Hee Sung , Cho PyoYun , Ahn Seong Kyu , Cha Seok Ho , Park Yun-Kyu , Lee Sung Keun , Kang Yoon-Joong , Sohn Youngjoo , Hong Yeongseon , Lee Hyeong-Woo
Published: September 2013

Background

After the re-emergence of Plasmodium vivax in 1993, a total of 31,254 cases of vivax malaria were reported between 1993–2012 in the Republic of Korea (ROK). The purpose of this study was to review Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention records to investigate the transmission of malaria from 2010–2012.

Methods

Reporting of microscopy-diagnosed cases of malaria is mandatory in the ROK. In this study, all available records of malaria cases and malaria vectors collected from 2010 – 2012 in Cheorwon County, Gangwon Province and Ganghwa County, Incheon Metropolitan City, were reviewed.

Results

Although the number of cases of malaria peaked a third time in 2010 (1,772 cases) since the re-emergence of P. vivax, the incidence decreased two-fold to 838 in 2011 and three-fold to 555 in 2012. The number of cases decreased 52.7% in 2011 compared with that in 2010 and 33.8% in 2012 compared with that in 2011. However, the number of cases increased in Incheon Metropolitan City (15.3%) and Gyeongnam Province (23.1%) in 2012 compared with 2011. Of the 3,165 cases of vivax malaria in 2010–2012, 798 (25.2%) were in ROK military personnel, 519 (16.4%) in veterans, and 1,848 (58.4%) in civilians. In total, there were 2,666 male patients and 499 female patients, and the ratio of female to male patients increased from 1:7.9 in 2011 to 1:4.1 in 2012.

Conclusions

A rapid decrease in the incidence of malaria was observed in most areas from 2010 to 2012, but the incidence increased again in the western part of the demilitarized zone. Therefore, more intensive surveillance is needed throughout high risk areas to identify factors responsible for increase/decrease in the incidence of malaria in the ROK.
Molecular mechanism of the camptothecin resistance of Glu710Gly topoisomerase IB mutant analyzed in vitro and in silico
Authors: Tesauro Cinzia , Morozzo della Rocca Blasco , Ottaviani Alessio , Coletta Andrea , Zuccaro Laura , Arnò Barbara , D'Annessa Ilda , Fiorani Paola , Desideri Alessandro
Published: September 2013

Background

DNA topoisomerases are key enzymes that modulate the topological state of DNA through the breaking and rejoining of DNA strands. Human topoisomerase IB can be inhibited by several compounds that act through different mechanisms, including clinically used drugs, such as the derivatives of the natural compound camptothecin that reversibly bind the covalent topoisomerase-DNA complex, slowing down the religation of the cleaved DNA strand, thus inducing cell death. Three enzyme mutations, which confer resistance to irinotecan in an adenocarcinoma cell line, were recently identified but the molecular mechanism of resistance was unclear.

Methods

The three resistant mutants have been investigated in S. cerevisiae model system following their viability in presence of increasing amounts of camptothecin. A systematical analysis of the different catalytic steps has been made for one of these mutants (Glu710Gly) and has been correlated with its structural-dynamical properties studied by classical molecular dynamics simulation.

Results

The three mutants display a different degree of camptothecin resistance in a yeast cell viability assay. Characterization of the different steps of the catalytic cycle of the Glu710Gly mutant indicated that its resistance is related to a high religation rate that is hardly affected by the presence of the drug. Analysis of the dynamic properties through simulation indicate that the mutant displays a much lower degree of correlation in the motion between the different protein domains and that the linker almost completely loses its correlation with the C-terminal domain, containing the active site tyrosine.

Conclusions

These results indicate that a fully functional linker is required to confer camptothecin sensitivity to topoisomerase I since the destabilization of its structural-dynamical properties is correlated to an increase of religation rate and drug resistance.