bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurobehavioral alterations and histopathological changes in brain and spinal cord of rats intoxicated with acrylamide
Authors: Jangir Babu Lal , Mahaprabhu R , Rahangadale Santosh , Bhandarkar Arun G , Kurkure Nitin V
Published: November 2013

The aim of this project was to study the clinical manifestations, neurobehavioral, hematobiochemical, oxidative stress, genotoxicity, and histopathological changes during acrylamide toxicity in rats. A total of 30 adult male Wistar rats were divided in 5 equal groups and received 0, 10, 15, and 20 mg/kg body weight acrylamide as oral gavage, while group 5 was micronucleus (MN) control. Functional observational battery (FOB) parameters were studied at the 28th day of post treatment. Toxicological manifestations were evident in acrylamide-treated rats from 14th day onward. FOB revealed a significant change in central nervous system, neuromuscular, and autonomic domains. The hematological changes include significant decrease in concentration of hemoglobin, total erythrocyte count, packed cell volume, and mean corpuscular volume. The biochemical parameters aspartate aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, and albumin showed significant increase, while the levels of serum globulin and glucose were found to decrease significantly. The MN assay revealed the significant increase in frequencies of micronuclei and number of polychromatic erythrocytes. The oxidative stress parameters revealed no significant difference as compared to control rats. Histopathological changes observed in brain include neuronal degeneration, edema, and congestion, while spinal cord revealed demyelination in low-dose group and bilateral necrosis with malacia, liquefaction of white matter, and loss of myelin from gray matter in high-dose groups. The result indicates pathological alterations in brain and spinal cord and is responsible for neurobehavioral changes in rats. The FOB changes and histopathological alterations in spinal cord are in dose dependent to acrylamide intoxication. Various toxicological effects observed in experiment direct us to focus on a deep study and evaluate the possible causes pertaining to toxicity of this chemical. It would furnish the scientists with better options that would help them to search for a median path regarding the use of this chemical and take preventive measures to save the living beings from the hidden disasters of this chemical.
Speech-Language Pathologist and General Educator Collaboration
Authors: Watson Gina D. , Bellon-Harn Monica L.
Published: November 2013

Tier 2 supplemental instruction within a response to intervention framework provides a unique opportunity for developing partnerships between speech-language pathologists and classroom teachers. Speech-language pathologists may participate in Tier 2 instruction via a consultative or collaborative service delivery model depending on district needs. This article describes steps and suggestions for the development and implementation of a collaborative Tier 2 program for kindergarten.
Considering the Impact of Preservice Teacher Beliefs on Future Practice
Authors: Newman Thomas Cathy
Published: November 2013

Preservice teacher beliefs merit additional attention from special education teacher-educators. Given current policy and reforms aimed at improving outcomes for students with disabilities and increasing the adoption of evidence-based practices, teacher-educators should recognize the barrier that preservice teacher beliefs can pose and consider beliefs as a potential contributor to the longstanding gap between research and practice in special education. Two particular belief constructs addressed in this article are (a) self-efficacy and (b) credibility for information sources. Each of these influences preservice teacher confidence, motivation, decision making, and actions in service of students with disabilities, impacting instructional decision making and treatment of children.
The Photograph
Authors: Crow Liz
Published: November 2013

This is a narrative inquiry that explores the significance of a photograph that has exerted a hold over me for several years. A single glance, like running a finger along the amassed spines of well-loved novels, tumbles me instantly into memory. Yet, over time I have realized there is more than nostalgia to this photograph’s hold. Like those novels, this photograph holds its own fiction, yet through that fiction it also carries profound truths about how life might be lived. As I live alongside it, I find the photograph unfolding to another, deeper level of meaning that shifts and changes through time, representing a self in flux and guiding a journey through the themes of my life. In telling the story of another, I find that the photograph contains my own narrative too.
Health Literacy Part 2
Authors: Pontius Deborah J.
Published: November 2013

Health literacy promotion techniques are important for the school nurse’s tool kit. Forty-three percent of the adult population have difficulty understanding basic health information, yet written materials sent home from schools are often at a level well above the average reader. Learning and applying techniques to improve the appearance and comprehension of your written materials will help to get the school nurse’s message home. This article is the second and final in a series of articles focusing on health literacy. The first article, focusing on verbal communication, was published in the September 2013 issue of NASN School Nurse.
On the strong convergence and some inequalities for negatively superadditive dependent sequences
Authors: Shen Yan , Wang Xuejun , Hu Shuhe
Published: November 2013

In this paper, we study the Marcinkiewicz-type strong law of large numbers, Hajek-Renyi-type inequality and other inequalities for negatively superadditive dependent (NSD) sequences. As an application, the integrability of supremum for NSD random variables is obtained. Our results extend the corresponding ones of Christofides and Vaggelatou (J. Multivar. Anal. 88:138-151, 2004) and Liu et al. (Stat. Probab. Lett. 43:99-105, 1999).

MSC:60F15.
Not so pseudo: the evolutionary history of protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 2 and related pseudogenes
Authors: Korrodi-Gregório Luís , Abrantes Joana , Muller Thorsten , Melo-Ferreira José , Marcus Katrin , da Cruz e Silva Odete AB , Fardilha Margarida , Esteves Pedro J
Published: November 2013

Background

Pseudogenes are traditionally considered “dead” genes, therefore lacking biological functions. This view has however been challenged during the last decade. This is the case of the Protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 2 (PPP1R2) or inhibitor-2 gene family, for which several incomplete copies exist scattered throughout the genome.

Results

In this study, the pseudogenization process of PPP1R2 was analyzed. Ten PPP1R2-related pseudogenes (PPP1R2P1-P10), highly similar to PPP1R2, were retrieved from the human genome assembly present in the databases. The phylogenetic analysis of mammalian PPP1R2 and related pseudogenes suggested that PPP1R2P7 and PPP1R2P9 retroposons appeared before the great mammalian radiation, while the remaining pseudogenes are primate-specific and retroposed at different times during Primate evolution. Although considered inactive, four of these pseudogenes seem to be transcribed and possibly possess biological functions. Given the role of PPP1R2 in sperm motility, the presence of these proteins was assessed in human sperm, and two PPP1R2-related proteins were detected, PPP1R2P3 and PPP1R2P9. Signatures of negative and positive selection were also detected in PPP1R2P9, further suggesting a role as a functional protein.

Conclusions

The results show that contrary to initial observations PPP1R2-related pseudogenes are not simple bystanders of the evolutionary process but may rather be at the origin of genes with novel functions.
Maternal anaemia and duration of zidovudine in antiretroviral regimens for preventing mother-to-child transmission: a randomized trial in three African countries
Authors: Sartorius Benn KD , Chersich Matthew F , Mwaura Mary , Meda Nicolas , Temmerman Marleen , Newell Marie Louise , Farley Timothy MM , Luchters Stanley ,   the Kesho Bora Study Group
Published: November 2013

Background

Although substantiated by little evidence, concerns about zidovudine-related anaemia in pregnancy have influenced antiretroviral (ARV) regimen choice for preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV-1, especially in settings where anaemia is common.

Methods

Eligible HIV-infected pregnant women in Burkina Faso, Kenya and South Africa were followed from 28 weeks of pregnancy until 12–24 months after delivery (n = 1070). Women with a CD4 count of 200-500cells/mm3and gestational age 28–36 weeks were randomly assigned to zidovudine-containing triple-ARV prophylaxis continued during breastfeeding up to 6-months, or to zidovudine during pregnancy plus single-dose nevirapine (sd-NVP) at labour. Additionally, two cohorts were established, women with CD4 counts: <200 cells/mm3initiated antiretroviral therapy, and >500 cells/mm3received zidovudine during pregnancy plus sd-NVP at labour. Mild (haemoglobin 8.0-10.9 g/dl) and severe anaemia (haemoglobin < 8.0 g/dl) occurrence were assessed across study arms, using Kaplan-Meier and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

At enrolment (corresponded to a median 32 weeks gestation), median haemoglobin was 10.3 g/dl (IQR = 9.2-11.1). Severe anaemia occurred subsequently in 194 (18.1%) women, mostly in those with low baseline haemoglobin, lowest socio-economic category, advanced HIV disease, prolonged breastfeeding (≥6 months) and shorter ARV exposure. Severe anaemia incidence was similar in the randomized arms (equivalenceP-value = 0.32). After 1–2 months of ARV’s, severe anaemia was significantly reduced in all groups, though remained highest in the low CD4 cohort.

Conclusions

Severe anaemia occurs at a similar rate in women receiving longer triple zidovudine-containing regimens or shorter prophylaxis. Pregnant women with pre-existing anaemia and advanced HIV disease require close monitoring.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN71468401
Autoantibodies and gastrointestinal symptoms in infertile women in relation to in vitro fertilization
Authors: Hammar Oskar , Roth Bodil , Bengtsson Mariette , Mandl Thomas , Ohlsson Bodil
Published: November 2013

Background

Prior reports suggest a link between gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and gastrointestinal function. The aim of the study was to prospectively investigate women subjected to in vitro fertilization (IVF) using the GnRH analog buserelin, taking into account gastrointestinal symptoms and antibody development against buserelin, GnRH, luteinizing hormone (LH), and their receptors.

Methods

Gastrointestinal symptoms were registered by the Visual Analogue Scale for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (VAS-IBS) before and after IVF treatment, and five years later. Health-related quality of life was evaluated by the 36-item Short-Form questionnaire (SF-36). ELISA was used for antibody analyses before and after treatment. Data were compared with women from the general population.

Results

In total, 124 patients were investigated before and after IVF, and 62 were re-evaluated after five years. Buserelin treatment led to significant impairment of constipation (p = 0.004), nausea and vomiting (p = 0.035), psychological well-being (p = 0.000), and the intestinal symptoms’ influence on daily life (p = 0.027). At 5-year follow-up, abdominal pain was worsened (p = 0.041), but psychological well-being was improved (p = 0.036), compared to prior treatment, and 15% had an observable deterioration in gastrointestinal symptoms. None developed severe dysmotility. Patients had higher prevalence of IgG antibodies against LH (p = 0.001) and its receptor (p = 0.016), and IgM antibodies against the GnRH receptor (p = 0.001) prior treatment compared with controls, but no antibody development was observed after IVF.

Conclusion

Patients experience gastrointestinal symptoms during buserelin treatment, and abdominal pain is still increased after five years, but buserelin does not increase antibody formation against GnRH, LH or their receptors.
Predictors of mortality among HIV infected children on anti-retroviral therapy in Mekelle Hospital, Northern Ethiopia: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gebremedhin Aregay , Gebremariam Solomon , Haile Fisaha , Weldearegawi Berhe , Decotelli Carla
Published: November 2013

Background

The introduction of antiretroviral therapy in 1996 improved the longevity and wellbeing of peoples living with HIV in the industrialized world including children. This survival benefit of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in reducing HIV related deaths has been well studied in the developed world. In resource-poor settings, where such treatment was started recently, there is inadequate information about impact of ART on the survival of patients especially in children. So, this study aims to investigate predictors of mortality of children on ART. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify predictors of mortality among children on HAART.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on 432 children who initiated antiretroviral therapy from June 2006 to June 2011 at pediatrics ART clinic in Mekelle Hospital, Northern-Ethiopia. Data were extracted from electronic and paper based medical records database and analyzed using Kaplan Meier survival and Cox proportional hazard model to identify independent predictors of children’s mortality on ART.

Results

The total time contributed by the study participants were 14,235 child-months with median follow up of 36 months. The mortality rate of this cohort was 1.40 deaths per 1000 child-months or 16.85 deaths per 1000 child-years. Age less than 18 months [ Adj.HR (95% CI) = (4.39(1.15-17.41)], CD4 percentage <10 [Adj.HR (95% CI) = 2.98(1.12-7.94)], WHO clinical stage (III&IV) [Adj.HR (95% CI) = 4.457(1.01-19.66)], chronic diarrhea[Adj.HR (95% CI) = 4.637(1.50-14.31)] and hemoglobin < 8 g/dl[Adj.HR (95% CI) = 3.77(1.29-10.98)] all at baseline were significantly and independently associated with survival of children on ART.

Conclusions

Mortality of children on ART was low and factors that affect mortality of children on ART were age less than 18 months, lower CD4 percentage, advanced WHO clinical stage (III&IV), presence of chronic diarrhea and lower hemoglobin level all at baseline. The high early mortality rate would support the value of an earlier treatment start before development of signs of immunodeficiency syndrome despite the method of HIV diagnosis and WHO stage.
Nitric oxide synthase polymorphisms, gene expression and lung function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Aminuddin Farzian , Hackett Tillie-Louise , Stefanowicz Dorota , Saferali Aabida , Paré Peter D , Gulsvik Amund , Bakke Per , Cho Michael H , Litonjua Augusto , Lomas David A , Anderson Wayne H , Beaty Terri H , Silverman Edwin K , Sandford Andrew J
Published: November 2013

Background

Due to the pleiotropic effects of nitric oxide (NO) within the lungs, it is likely that NO is a significant factor in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The aim of this study was to test for association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in three NO synthase (NOS) genes and lung function, as well as to examine gene expression and protein levels in relation to the genetic variation.

Methods

One SNP in each NOS gene (neuronal NOS (NOS1), inducible NOS (NOS2), and endothelial NOS (NOS3)) was genotyped in the Lung Health Study (LHS) and correlated with lung function. One SNP (rs1800779) was also analyzed for association with COPD and lung function in four COPD case–control populations. Lung tissue expression of NOS3 mRNA and protein was tested in individuals of known genotype for rs1800779. Immunohistochemistry of lung tissue was used to localize NOS3 expression.

Results

For the NOS3 rs1800779 SNP, the baseline forced expiratory volume in one second in the LHS was significantly higher in the combined AG + GG genotypic groups compared with the AA genotypic group. Gene expression and protein levels in lung tissue were significantly lower in subjects with the AG + GG genotypes than in AA subjects. NOS3 protein was expressed in the airway epithelium and subjects with the AA genotype demonstrated higher NOS3 expression compared with AG and GG individuals. However, we were not able to replicate the associations with COPD or lung function in the other COPD study groups.

Conclusions

Variants in the NOS genes were not associated with lung function or COPD status. However, the G allele of rs1800779 resulted in a decrease of NOS3 gene expression and protein levels and this has implications for the numerous disease states that have been associated with this polymorphism.
Factors influencing health-related quality of life after total hip replacement - a comparison of data from the Swedish and Danish hip arthroplasty registers
Authors: Gordon Max , Paulsen Aksel , Overgaard Søren , Garellick Göran , Pedersen Alma B , Rolfson Ola
Published: November 2013

Background

There is an increasing focus on measuring patient-reported outcomes (PROs) as part of routine medical practice, particularly in fields such as joint replacement surgery where pain relief and improvement in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are primary outcomes. Between-country comparisons of PROs may present difficulties due to cultural differences and differences in the provision of health care. However, in order to understand how these differences affect PROs, common predictors for poor and good outcomes need to be investigated. This cross-sectional study investigates factors influencing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) one year after total hip replacement (THR) surgery in Sweden and in Denmark.

Methods

Data was retrieved from the Swedish (n = 14 560 patients) and Danish (n = 632 patients) Hip Arthroplasty Registers according to preset selection criteria. Using linear regression models, we examined how sex, age, comorbidity and country of surgery were associated with different aspects of HRQoL as measured by the EQ-5D index and EQ VAS.

Results

Danish patients had an overall higher EQ-5D index and EQ VAS than Swedish patients (p < 0.001). After regression analysis, the estimated coefficients for sex, age, or the Charlson score did not differ between countries for either the EQ-5D index (p = 0.83) or EQ VAS (p = 0.41) one year after THR.

Conclusions

We conclude that there are clear similarities in how basic predictors influence patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in patients with THR in Sweden and Denmark and these known predictors of good or poor HRQoL outcomes are not specific for each country.
Surface anchored metal-organic frameworks as stimulus responsive antifouling coatings
Authors: Arpa Sancet Maria Pilar , Hanke Maximilian , Wang Zhengbang , Bauer Stella , Azucena Carlos , Arslan Hasan K , Heinle Marita , Gliemann Hartmut , Wöll Christof , Rosenhahn Axel
Published: November 2013

Surface-anchored, crystalline and oriented metal organic frameworks (SURMOFs) have huge potential for biological applications due to their well-defined and highly-porous structure. In this work we describe a MOF-based, fully autonomous system, which combines sensing, a specific response, and the release of an antimicrobial agent. The Cu-containing SURMOF, Cu-SURMOF 2, is stable in artificial seawater and shows stimulus-responsive anti-fouling properties against marine bacteria. When Cobetia marina adheres on the SURMOF, the framework’s response is lethal to the adhering microorganism. A thorough analysis reveals that this response is induced by agents secreted from the microbes after adhesion to the substrate, and includes a release of Cu ions resulting from a degradation of the SURMOF. The stimulus-responsive antifouling effect of Cu-SURMOF 2 demonstrates the first application of Cu-SURMOF 2 as autonomous system with great potential for further microbiological and cell culture applications.
Effect of low-level laser therapy on the post-surgical inflammatory process after third molar removal: study protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Oliveira Sierra Simone , Melo Deana Alessandro , Agnelli Mesquita Ferrari Raquel , Maia Albarello Priscilla , Kalil Bussadori Sandra , Porta Santos Fernandes Kristianne
Published: November 2013

Background

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been shown to modulate the inflammatory process without adverse effects , by reducing pain and swelling and promoting the repair of damaged tissues. Because pain, swelling and muscle spasm are complications found in virtually all patients following oral surgery for the removal of impacted teeth, this model has been widely used to evaluate the effects of LLLT on the inflammatory process involving bone and, connective tissue and the muscles involved in mastication.

Methods/Design

After meeting the eligibility criteria, 60 patients treated at a Specialty Dental Center for the removal of impacted lower third molars will be randomly divided into five groups according to the type of laser therapy used at the end of surgery (intraoral irradiation with 660 nm laser; extraoral irradiation with 660 nm laser; intraoral irradiation with 808 nm laser; extraoral irradiation with 808 nm laser and no irradiation). To ensure that patients are blinded to the type of treatment they are receiving, the hand piece of the laser apparatus will be applied both intraorally and extraorally to all participants, but the device will be turned on only at the appropriate time, as determined by the randomization process. At 2 and 7 days after surgery, the patients will be evaluated by three blinded evaluators who will measure of swelling, mouth opening (muscle spasm evaluation) and pain (using two different pain scales). The 14-item Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) will be used to assess QOL. All data will be analyzed with respect to the normality of distribution using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Statistically significant differences between the experimental groups will be determined using analysis of variance, followed by a suitable post hoc test, when necessary. The significance level will be set at α = 0.05.

Discussion

The lack of standardization in studies with regard to the samples, methods and LLLT parameters complicates the determination of the actual effect of laser therapy on this model. The present study aims to provide a randomized, controlled, double-blind trial to compare four different LLLT parameters in relation to the outcomes of pain, swelling and muscle spasm following surgery for the extraction of impacted third molars and evaluate the effects os surgery on patients' quality os life (QOL).

Trial registration

Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials - Rebec (RBR-6XSB5H).
Acupuncture as prophylaxis for menstrual-related migraine: study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Zhe , Zhang Lei , Guo Jia , Zeng Lin , Yang Yi , Zhang Tao , Shi Guang-Xia , Liu Hui-Lin , Wang Lin-Peng
Published: November 2013

Background

Menstrual-related migraine is a common form of migraine affecting >50% of female migraineurs. Acupuncture may be a choice for menstrual-related migraine, when pharmacological prophylaxis is not suitable. However, the efficacy of acupuncture has not been confirmed. We design and perform a randomized controlled clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of acupuncture compared with naproxen in menstrual-related migraine patients.

Methods/Design

This is a multicenter, single blind, randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 184 participants will be randomly assigned to two different groups. Participants will receive verum acupuncture and placebo medicine in the treatment group, while participants in the control group will be treated with sham acupuncture and medicine (Naproxen Sustained Release Tablets). All treatments will be given for 3 months (menstrual cycles).

The primary outcome measures are the change of migraine days inside the menstrual cycle and the proportion of responders (defined as the proportion of patients with at least a 50% reduction in the number of menstrual migraine days). The secondary outcome measures are the change of migraine days outside the menstrual cycle, duration of migraine attack, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and intake of acute medication. The assessment will be made at baseline (before treatment), 3 months (menstrual cycles), and 4 months (menstrual cycles) after the first acupuncture session.

Discussion

The results of this trial will be helpful to supply the efficacy of acupuncture for menstrual-related migraine prophylaxis.

Trial registration

ISRCTN: ISRCTN57133712
Herd health status and management practices on 16 Irish suckler beef farms
Authors: O’Shaughnessy James , Mee John F , Doherty Michael L , Crosson Paul , Barrett Damien , O’Grady Luke , Earley Bernadette
Published: November 2013

Background

There have been few studies published internationally which document herd health management practices in suckler beef herds and no published Irish studies. The study objective was to document herd health status and management practices on sixteen Irish suckler beef herds over a two year period (2009–2010). The farms used in the study were part of the Teagasc BETTER farm beef programme. The mean (s.d.) herd size, stocking rate and farm size was 68 cows (27.6), 2.0 LU/ha (0.3) and 64.3 (21.6) adjusted hectares, respectively. Two questionnaires were designed; 1) a farmer questionnaire to collect information on farm background and current herd health control practices and 2) a veterinary questionnaire to collect information on the extent of animal health advice given by veterinarians to their clients and identification of any on-farm herd health issues.

Results

Dystocia, calf pneumonia, and calf diarrhoea, in that order, were identified as the primary herd health issues in these Irish suckler beef herds. In addition, substantial deficiencies in biosecurity practices were also identified on these farms.

Conclusions

The findings of this study may serve as the focus for future research in animal health management practices in Irish suckler beef herds.
Obesity and survival in operable breast cancer patients treated with adjuvant anthracyclines and taxanes according to pathological subtypes: a pooled analysis
Authors: Pajares Bella , Pollán Marina , Martín Miguel , Mackey John R , Lluch Ana , Gavila Joaquín , Vogel Charles , Ruiz-Borrego Manuel , Calvo Lourdes , Pienkowski Tadeusz , Rodríguez-Lescure Álvaro , Seguí Miguel Angel , Tredan Olivier , Antón Antonio , Ramos Manuel , Cámara María del Carmen , Rodríguez-Martín César , Carrasco Eva , Alba Emilio
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Obesity is an unfavorable prognostic factor in breast cancer (BC) patients regardless of menopausal status and treatment received. However, the association between obesity and survival outcome by pathological subtype requires further clarification.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis including 5,683 operable BC patients enrolled in four randomized clinical trials (GEICAM/9906, GEICAM/9805, GEICAM/2003–02, and BCIRG 001) evaluating anthracyclines and taxanes as adjuvant treatments. Our primary aim was to assess the prognostic effect of body mass index (BMI) on disease recurrence, breast cancer mortality (BCM), and overall mortality (OM). A secondary aim was to detect differences of such prognostic effects by subtype.

Results

Multivariate survival analyses adjusting for age, tumor size, nodal status, menopausal status, surgery type, histological grade, hormone receptor status, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status, chemotherapy regimen, and under-treatment showed that obese patients (BMI 30.0 to 34.9) had similar prognoses to that of patients with a BMI < 25 (reference group) in terms of recurrence (Hazard Ratio [HR] = 1.08, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 0.90 to 1.30), BCM (HR = 1.02, 0.81 to 1.29), and OM (HR = 0.97, 0.78 to 1.19). Patients with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35) had a significantly increased risk of recurrence (HR = 1.26, 1.00 to 1.59, P = 0.048), BCM (HR = 1.32, 1.00 to 1.74, P = 0.050), and OM (HR = 1.35, 1.06 to 1.71, P = 0.016) compared to our reference group. The prognostic effect of severe obesity did not vary by subtype.

Conclusions

Severely obese patients treated with anthracyclines and taxanes present a worse prognosis regarding recurrence, BCM, and OM than patients with BMI < 25. The magnitude of the harmful effect of BMI on survival-related outcomes was similar across subtypes.
Drag coefficients for single coral colonies and related spherical objects
Authors: Samuel Lianna C. , Monismith Stephen G.
Published: November 2013

Lay Abstract

While spheres and cylinders are sometimes used to model the flows over and through coral canopies or isolated coral colonies, these models may not adequately represent the effects of complex coral geometry. We report the results of a series of lab experiments measuring drag on branching coral colonies and spherical objects. Our results show that the drag on an individual branching coral can be much higher than on a sphere. This difference is highest at low velocities, when the flow interacts with the coral's inner branches. In contrast, the drag on a perforated plastic ball is much closer to what is observed for single coral colonies, suggesting that at high flows the inner branches of the coral do not contribute to the drag. Using our findings, we also show that drag is likely to dominate inertial forces for wavy conditions commonly found on coral reefs. These findings will help us understand how benthic (bottom‐dwelling) organisms live in environments with complex and sometimes challenging hydrodynamics.
Food sovereignty: an alternative paradigm for poverty reduction and biodiversity conservation in Latin America
Authors: Chappell M Jahi , Wittman Hannah , Bacon Christopher M , Ferguson Bruce G , Barrios Luis García , Barrios Raúl García , Jaffee Daniel , Lima Jefferson , Méndez V Ernesto , Morales Helda , Soto-Pinto Lorena , Vandermeer John , Perfecto Ivette
Published: November 2013

Strong feedback between global biodiversity loss and persistent, extreme rural poverty are major challenges in the face of concurrent food, energy, and environmental crises. This paper examines the role of industrial agricultural intensification and market integration as exogenous socio-ecological drivers of biodiversity loss and poverty traps in Latin America. We then analyze the potential of a food sovereignty framework, based on protecting the viability of a diverse agroecological matrix while supporting rural livelihoods and global food production. We review several successful examples of this approach, including ecological land reform in Brazil, agroforestry,milpa, and the uses of wild varieties in smallholder systems in Mexico and Central America. We highlight emergent research directions that will be necessary to assess the potential of the food sovereignty model to promote both biodiversity conservation and poverty reduction.
Canales, sifones y almenaras: el impacto ambiental de las infraestructuras del Canal de Isabel II (Madrid)
Authors: Sotelo Navalpotro José Antonio , Sotelo Pérez María
Published: November 2013

El presente artículo tiene como finalidad, valorar el impacto ambiental de las conducciones del Canal de Isabel II en el contexto del paisaje. Partimos de la idea según la cual, las infraestructuras del Canal de Isabel II, y más que formar parte del paisaje por el que se extienden, son el propio paisaje. Nuestra zona de estudio es el noroeste de la Comunidad de Madrid (síntesis de la interacción de los propios agentes naturales, de la ocupación humana y de los usos del suelo), área a la que nos aproximarnos a través de la investigación de la integración paisajística, entendida ésta como una estrategia de intervención en el territorio, que tiene como objetivo principal orientar las transformaciones del paisaje o corregir las ya realizadas, para conseguir su adaptación al propio paisaje. En definitiva, nos encontramos ante la necesidad de ajustar un objeto o actuación territorial a las características fisonómicas de un paisaje dado, o de algunos de sus componentes, así como a su carácter y a sus contenidos semánticos.
Análisis del riesgo de inundación en Motilla del Palancar (Cuenca, España)
Authors: Martínez Escribano Alberto
Published: November 2013

La localidad de Motilla del Palancar (Cuenca), situada en el interior este peninsular, se encuentra expuesta a las inundaciones causadas por dos cursos de agua. Uno de ellos es el río Valdemembra, con una cuenca extensa y longitudinal, pero con poco caudal. La otra es una cuenca pequeña, redondeada y sin un cauce definido que desagua hacia el río a través de la calle principal de la localidad y que llamaremos Riato. Ambas provocan inundaciones: el río menos frecuentes, con alturas de agua importantes, y que han llegado a causar víctimas; en el Riato, más frecuentes pero con menos altura de lámina de agua. La alta exposición debida a la deficiente ordenación territorial junto a una elevada vulnerabilidad se suman a una peligrosidad moderada para desembocar en un escenario de riesgo claro tanto para la población como para los bienes expuestos, agravado por los cambios de usos del suelo dentro de las cuencas vertientes.
Applicability of a Spectrophotometric Method for Assessment of Oxidative Stress in Poultry
Authors: Regenhard Petra , Nakov Dimitar , Sauerwein Helga
Published: November 2013

Oxidative stress is discussed as being related to health, welfare, and also to product quality. Recently, a spectrophotometric method based on the Fenton reaction (reactive oxygen metabolites, ROM) has been proposed to characterize pro-oxidative stressors in body fluids by determining early products of oxidation from proteins, lipids and nucleic acids. The applicability of this method for blood samples from various bird species was tested. The validity of the method for mammalian domestic animals was demonstrated by linearity yielded with increasing amounts of serum. In contrast, serum obtained from chicken yielded ROM concentrations below the limit of detection when serum volumes comparable to mammalian samples were used. Applying higher amounts of serum was not increasing the optical density readings in a linear way. To assess whether the lack of sensitivity and linearity is a problem limited to chicken or poultry in general, we tested sera from laying hens, turkey, duck, goose, pheasant, pigeon, and guinea fowl. For most of the species tested, the method could not be validly applied. There is no reason to assume that oxidative stress in birds may not exist, therefore we conclude that bird specific matrix effects hinder the valid application of the ROMs test in poultry.
Detection of Recessive Mutations (BLAD and CVM) in Holstein-Friesian Cattle Population in Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Adamov Nikola , Mitrov Dine , Esmerov Igor , Dovc Peter
Published: November 2013

BLAD and CVM are Holstein-specific recessive mutations which have had significant economic impact on dairy cattle breeding worldwide. The aim of this study was to optimize a diagnostic test for detection of these two disorders and to obtain a preliminary picture about theire existence in Macedonian HF population. Blood samples were obtained from 84 HF cows from several different farms in Macedonia. Genomic DNA was extracted using DNeasy blood and tissue kit (Qiagen) which was also used for DNA extraction from deeply frozen sperm doses from 6 different HF bulls. Genotyping was performed by PCR-RFLP analysis with TaqI and HaeIII restriction endonucleases for BLAD and with PstI for CVM. The correctness of the genotyping was evaluated by direct sequencing of the amplified products. Among 90 HF cattle tested two cows were identified as carriers of the BLAD allele and one was carrier of the CVM allele. No bulls were found to be carriers of either of the two disorders. This study demonstrates that carriers of BLAD and CVM are present in Macedonia, although at low frequency. PCR followed by RFLP is efficient and inexpensive method for detection of the carriers and should be used as laboratory test in eradication programs. In order to establish a more accurate picture of the prevalence of these disorders, it is necessary to screen a larger number of animals. It is indispensable to test each bull before entering the A.I. program to prevent accidental transmission to a large number of offspring.
What is modern about sovereign wealth funds? A reply to Pete Moore
Authors: Clark Gordon L. , Dixon Adam D. , Monk Ashby H.B.
Published: November 2013

We welcome the opportunity to respond to Pete Moore's comments on our paper. In doing so, we address the central issue raised by Moore concerning our use of the term “modern” in our analysis of the origin, structure, and management of Gulf states’ sovereign wealth funds. As it turns out, our use of the term modern is complex and multifaceted; we hope to show that the issue raised by Pete Moore runs in a variety of directions and is not so easily resolved, as he suggests.
Small heat shock proteins: recent developments
Authors: Eisenhardt Benjamin Dennis
Published: November 2013

Small heat shock proteins (sHSPs) are abundantly present in many different organisms at elevated temperatures. Members of the subgroup of alpha crystallin domain (ACD)-type sHSPs belong to the large family of protein chaperones. They bind non-native proteins in an ATP-independent manner, thereby holding the incorporated clients soluble for subsequent refolding by other molecular chaperoning systems. sHSPs do not actively refold incorporated peptides therefore they are sometimes referred to as holdases. Varying numbers of sHSPs have been documented in the different domains of life and dependent on the analyzed organism. Generally, diverse sHSPs possess more sequence similarities in the conserved ACD, whereas the N- and C-terminal extensions are less conserved. Despite their designation as sHSPs, they are not solely present during heat stress. sHSPs presumably help to protect cells under various stresses, but they were also found during development, e.g., in embryonic development of higher plants which is associated with ongoing seed desiccation. The functional and physiological relevance of several different sHSPs in one organism remains still unclear, especially in plants where several highly similar sHSPs are present in the same compartment. The wide range of biotic and abiotic stresses that induce the expression of multiple sHSP genes makes it challenging to define the physiological relevance of each of these versatile proteins.
A critical review of the influence of hydrogen on the mechanical properties of medium-strength steels
Authors: Liu Qian , Atrens Andrej
Published: November 2013

As medium-strength steels are promising candidates for the hydrogen economy, it is important to understand their interaction with hydrogen. However, there are only a limited number of investigations on the behavior of medium-strength steels in hydrogen. The existing literature indicates that the influences of hydrogen on the tensile properties of medium-strength steels are mainly the following: (i) the steel can be hardened by hydrogen, as demonstrated by an increase in the yield stress or ultimate tensile stress; (ii) some steels can be embrittled by hydrogen, as revealed by lower yield stress or ultimate tensile stress; (iii) in most cases, these steels may experience hydrogen embrittlement (HE), as indicated by a reduction in ductility. The degree of HE mainly depends on the test conditions and the steel. The embrittlement can lead to catastrophic brittle fracture in service. The influence of hydrogen on the fatigue properties of medium-strength steels is dependent on many factors such as the stress ratio, temperature, yield stress of the steel, and test frequency. Generally, the hydrogen influence on fatigue limit is small, whereas hydrogen can accelerate the fatigue crack growth rate, leading to a shorter fatigue life. Inclusions are an important factor influencing the properties of medium-strength steels in the presence of hydrogen. However, it is not possible to predict the influence of hydrogen for any particular steel that has not been experimentally evaluated or to predict service performance. It is not known why similar steels can have different behavior, ranging from good resistance to significant embrittlement. A better understanding of the microstructural characteristics is needed.
Human parvovirus B19 infection causing discrepant prenatal findings and outcome in monochorionic diamniotic twins
Authors: Witteborn Katharina , Schoner Katharina , Enders Martin , Gembruch Ulrich , Arabin Birgit
Published: November 2013

Monochorionic (MC) twins are characterized by prenatal intertwin placental anastomoses, which can lead to twin oligo-polyhydramnios sequence (TOPS) or twin anemia-polycytemia sequence (TAPS). Symptoms of both TOPS and TAPS may interfere with symptoms of parvovirus B19 (B19V) infection. We describe here the course of an MC twin pregnancy with prenatal B19V infection and intrauterine death of one twin. Both the antenatal and postnatal diagnoses of B19V infection require a detailed approach including serology, DNA analysis, and specific fetopathologic investigation.
Synthesis and physicochemical properties of hydroxypropyl tannins from maritime pine bark (Pinus pinaster Ait.)
Authors: García Danny E. , Glasser Wolfgang G. , Pizzi Tony A. , Osorio-Madrazo Anayancy , Laborie Marie-Pierre G.
Published: November 2013

Simple derivatives of condensed tannins are described, which allow the tailoring of gelation (with aldehydes) and thermal degradation behaviors that have been obstacles to the commercial utilization of this abundant bioresource. Hydroxypropyl tannin (HPT) derivatives from bark of Pinus pinaster with varying degrees of substitution (DS 0.1–4.7) were analyzed with regard to molecular and physical characteristics, such as structure, molecular weight, thermal behavior, solubility and gelation. The modification reaction of tannin proceeds stoichiometrically to a mixture of oligomeric derivatives, mostly to trimers and tetramers, as demonstrated by 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance, elemental analysis, and gel permeation chromatography. The derivatives have an improved solubility in organic solvents and increased thermal stability. The glass transition temperature (Tg) was reduced by up to 37°C over unmodified tannin. At DS ≥1.0, the HPT lost the capacity to produce gel with formaldehyde. A structure-property relationship was established by means of multivariate analysis, and the derivatives could be grouped according to their physicochemical profile. HPTs are promising biomacromolecular building blocks for tannin-derived materials.
Cross-talk between reproduction and energy homeostasis: central impact of estrogens, leptin and kisspeptin signaling
Authors: Nestor Casey C. , Kelly Martin J. , Rønnekleiv Oline K.
Published: November 2013

The central nervous system receives hormonal cues (e.g., estrogens and leptin, among others) that influence reproduction and energy homeostasis. 17β-estradiol (E2) is known to regulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion via classical steroid signaling and rapid non-classical membrane-initiated signaling. Because GnRH neurons are void of leptin receptors, the actions of leptin on these neurons must be indirect. Although it is clear that the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus is the primary site of overlap between these two systems, it is still unclear which neural network(s) participate in the cross-talk of E2 and leptin, two hormones essential for reproductive function and metabolism. Herein we review the progress made in understanding the interactions between reproduction and energy homeostasis by focusing on the advances made to understand the cellular signaling of E2 and leptin on three neural networks: kisspeptin, pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) and neuropeptide Y (NPY). Although critical in mediating the actions of E2 and leptin, considerable work still remains to uncover how these neural networks interact in vivo.
When and Why Noise Correlations Are Important in Neural Decoding
Authors: Eyherabide Hugo Gabriel , Samengo Inés
Published: November 2013

Information may be encoded both in the individual activity of neurons and in the correlations between their activities. Understanding whether knowledge of noise correlations is required to decode all the encoded information is fundamental for constructing computational models, brain–machine interfaces, and neuroprosthetics. If correlations can be ignored with tolerable losses of information, the readout of neural signals is simplified dramatically. To that end, previous studies have constructed decoders assuming that neurons fire independently and then derived bounds for the information that is lost. However, here we show that previous bounds were not tight and overestimated the importance of noise correlations. In this study, we quantify the exact loss of information induced by ignoring noise correlations and show why previous estimations were not tight. Further, by studying the elementary parts of the decoding process, we determine when and why information is lost on a single-response basis. We introduce the minimum decoding error to assess the distinctive role of noise correlations under natural conditions. We conclude that all of the encoded information can be decoded without knowledge of noise correlations in many more situations than previously thought.
Specific Impairment of “What-Where-When” Episodic-Like Memory in Experimental Models of Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Inostroza Marion , Brotons-Mas Jorge R. , Laurent François , Cid Elena , de la Prida Liset Menendez
Published: November 2013

Episodic memory deficit is a common cognitive disorder in human temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). However, no animal model of TLE has been shown to specifically replicate this cognitive dysfunction, which has limited its translational appeal. Here, using a task that tests for nonverbal correlates of episodic-like memory in rats, we show that kainate-treated TLE rats exhibit a selective impairment of the “what-where-when” memory while preserving other forms of hippocampal-dependent memories. Assisted by multisite silicon probes, we recorded from the dorsal hippocampus of behaving animals to control for seizure-related factors and to look for electrophysiological signatures of cognitive impairment. Analyses of hippocampal local field potentials showed that both the power of theta rhythm and its coordination across CA1 and the DG—measured as theta coherence and phase locking—were selectively disrupted. This disruption represented a basal condition of the chronic epileptic hippocampus that was linked to different features of memory impairment. Theta power was more correlated with the spatial than with the temporal component of the task, while measures of theta coordination correlated with the temporal component. We conclude that episodic-like memory, as tested in the what-where-when task, is specifically affected in experimental TLE and that the impairment of hippocampal theta activity might be central to this dysfunction.