bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gender‐specific effects of oral hypoglycaemic agents on cancer risk in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sun G. E. C. , Wells B. J. , Yip K. , Zimmerman R. , Raghavan D. , Kattan M. W. , Kashyap S. R.
Published: November 2013

Aims

To analyse the association between cancer incidence and oral diabetes therapy (biguanide, sulphonylurea, thiazolidinedione and meglitinide) in men and women with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of the electronic health record‐based Cleveland Clinic Diabetes Registry (25 613 patients) was cross‐indexed with the histology‐based tumour registry (48 051 cancer occurrences) over an 8‐year period (1998–2006). Multiple imputations were used to account for missing data. Cox regression with propensity scores was used to model time for the development of incident cancer in each of the imputed datasets and the results were pooled.

Results

During 51 994 person follow‐up years, 892 incident cancer cases were identified; prostate (14.5%) and breast (11.7%) malignancies were most frequent. In women, thiazolidinedione use was associated with a 32% decreased cancer risk compared with sulphonylurea use [hazard ratio (HR) 0.68; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48–0.97, in the adjusted analysis]. Comparison of insulin secretagogues (sulphonylurea and meglitinide) versus insulin sensitizers (biguanide and thiazolidinedione) demonstrated a 21% decreased cancer risk in insulin sensitizers [HR 0.79 (95% CI 0.64–0.98) in the adjusted analysis]. Oral diabetes therapy showed no significant difference in men. Adjustments were made for age, body mass index (BMI), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL), high‐density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides, coronary heart disease (CHD), diabetes oral monotherapy, race, gender, haemoglobin A1c, statin use, income, insulin use, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), new diabetes status, prior cancer, prior cerebrovascular accident (stroke or transient ischaemic event), systolic/diastolic blood pressure, tobacco use (ever/never) and the propensity score for receiving a biguanide.

Conclusions

Oral insulin sensitizers, particularly thiazolidinedione, are associated with decreased malignancy risk in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Biodegradation of 1080: Testing soils in south‐eastern Australia for sodium fluoroacetate‐degrading micro‐organisms
Authors: Gentle Matthew , Cother Eric
Published: November 2013

Sodium fluoroacetate (1080) is a vertebrate poison commonly used for the control of vertebrate pests in Australia. Long‐term environmental persistence of 1080 from baiting operations has likely nontarget species and environmental impacts and is a matter of public concern. Defluorinating micro‐organisms have been detected in soils of Western and central Australia, and Queensland, but not in south‐eastern Australia. The presence or absence of defluorinating micro‐organisms in soils from south‐eastern Australia will assist in determining whether long‐term environmental persistence of 1080 is or is not occurring. Soils from the Central West Slopes and Plains and Central Tablelands of New South Wales were sampled to investigate the presence and capability of 1080 defluorinating soil micro‐organisms. Thirty‐one species of micro‐organisms were isolated from soils from each site after 10 days incubation in a 20 mM 1080 solution. Of these, 13 isolates showed measurable defluorinating ability when grown in a 1080 and sterile soil suspension. Two species, the bacteria Micromonospora, and the actinomycete Streptosporangium, have not been previously reported for their defluorinating ability. These results indicate that defluorinating micro‐organisms are present in soils in south‐eastern Australia, which adds weight to other studies that found that 1080 is subject to microbiological degradative processes following removal from the bait substrate. Soil micro‐organism defluorination, in combination with physical breakdown and uptake by plants, indicates that fluoroacetate in soils and natural water ways is unlikely to persist. This has implications for the better informed use of 1080 in pest animal management programmes in south‐eastern Australia.
Dynamic changes in thalamic microstructure of migraine without aura patients: a diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Coppola G. , Tinelli E. , Lepre C. , Iacovelli E. , Di Lorenzo C. , Di Lorenzo G. , Serrao M. , Pauri F. , Fiermonte G. , Bianco F. , Pierelli F.
Published: November 2013

Background and purpose

The thalamus seems to be profoundly involved in the cyclical recurrence of migraine clinical and neurophysiological features. Here possible structural changes in the thalamus of migraineurs were searched for by means of diffusion tensor (DT) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This MRI technique provides quantitative data on water molecule motion as a marker of tissue microstructure.

Methods

Twenty‐four untreated migraine without aura (MO) patients underwent DT‐MRI scans (3‐T Siemens Gyroscan) during (n = 10) and between attacks (n = 14) and were compared with a group of 15 healthy volunteers (HVs). Fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) were examined.

Results

During the interictal phase MO patients had a significantly higher FA and slightly lower MD values in bilateral thalami compared with HVs. During attacks, all MRI quantitative measurements in migraineurs were similar to those found in HVs. Right thalamic FA was positively correlated with the number of days since the last migraine attack in pooled patient data (r = 0.626, P = 0.003).

Conclusions

These higher thalamic FA values noted during the interictal period which normalized during an attack are probably related to plastic peri‐ictal modifications in regional branching and crossing of fibres. Whether these changes could be considered as the anatomical counterpart of the cyclical functional fluctuations previously observed in the neurophysiology of migraine remains to be determined.
Antipredatory Response and Food Intake in Wood Mice (Apodemus sylvaticus) under Simulated Predation Risk by Resident and Novel Carnivorous Predators
Authors: Navarro‐Castilla Álvaro , Barja Isabel
Published: November 2013

Chemical signals left by predators are a potential source of information about the risk of predation, and small mammals are known to take them into account when making decisions. We investigated whether wood mice (Apodemus sylvaticus) are more likely to avoid the faeces of resident predators (red foxVulpes vulpesand common genetGenetta genetta) vs. a novel predator (European pine martenMartes martes). Odour recognition would increase perceived predation risk and reduce food intake by individual mice. Wood mice response to predators was analysed by live‐trapping using two untreated controls (baited/non‐baited) and traps experimentally manipulated with three predator treatments (faeces of red fox, common genet or pine marten). Traps were baited with 4 g of toasted corn, and food intake by wood mice was determined as the amount of bait remaining in each trap. We found that traps treated with faeces of resident predators were the most avoided, and the number of captures in traps treated with pine marten faeces was similar to the control‐baited traps. The variation found in food intake was explained by the interaction between the types of treatment and breeding condition. Food intake was similar in control‐baited traps and in traps with faeces of pine marten, but when predation risk by resident predators (red fox and common genet) was simulated, breeders reduced food intake significantly as compared to non‐breeders. These results indicate that predator recognition and feeding behaviour under predation risk depend on individual factors and the balance of costs‐benefits in each particular predation risk situation at a given place and time.
Maxillary odontogenic myxoma in young horses: Six cases (2003–2011)
Authors: Fjordbakk C. T. , Pekárková M. , Dolvik N. I. , Teige J.
Published: November 2013

Six young horses presented with a rapidly expanding maxillary mass with concurrent nasal discharge. All horses had a nonpainful firm unilateral facial swelling centred over the maxillary sinuses, accompanied by mucopurulent nasal discharge. Diagnostic imaging revealed an infiltrative nasomaxillary mass with cheek tooth involvement, diagnosed as odontogenic myxoma. The tooth involvement included missing, malformed and/or displaced dental precursors or unerupted teeth. Due to the rapid expansion and extent of the masses, and the poor prognosis reported for surgical excision, euthanasia was recommended and performed in all cases. Macroscopically, a soft oedematous tissue with a grey to green colour was seen in the regions of missing, malformed or displaced dental precursors or unerupted teeth. Histologically, this tissue consisted of spindle shaped cells surrounded by an abundant homogenous pale stroma, rich in acid mucopolysaccharides. Immunohistochemistry was positive for actin and the mesenchymal marker vimentin. The cheek tooth involvement identified in the described cases resembled what is previously reported in odontogenic myxoma in children and young adults. Even in man, maxillary odontogenic myxoma represents a therapeutic challenge due to the invasiveness of the lesions and radical surgical excision is recommended. Treatment is further complicated by sinonasal involvement. Surgery was not attempted in the cases presented here due to the extent of the lesions and the risk of recurrence. Clinicians should be aware of this rare condition when presented with young horses with sinonasal neoplasia.
Small intestinal segmental volvulus in horses after gastroscopy: Four cases (2011–2012)
Authors: Bonilla A. G. , Hurcombe S. D. , Sweeney R. W. , Hewetson M. , Mudge M. C.
Published: November 2013

Gastroscopy is the most common technique used in veterinary medicine to evaluate the stomach in horses and to date, no complications have been described associated with the procedure. This paper reports 4 cases developing a nonstrangulating segmental volvulus of the small intestine after gastroscopy at 3 referral institutions over a 2 year period. After performing diagnostic gastroscopy, all horses developed acute and severe clinical signs of colic unresponsive to medical management. Time range between gastroscopy and onset of colic signs varied from 10 min to 3 h. An exploratory laparotomy revealed a nonstrangulating segmental volvulus of the small intestine that was manually corrected without need for resection in all horses. In all cases, affected small intestine was severely gas distended. Three of those horses survived to discharge and were alive at follow‐up. One horse was subjected to euthanasia 2 days after surgery due to diffuse intestinal lymphoma.
Are cities different? Patterns of species richness and beta diversity of urban bird communities and regional species assemblages in Europe
Authors: Ferenc Michal , Sedláček Ondřej , Fuchs Roman , Dinetti Marco , Fraissinet Maurizio , Storch David
Published: November 2013

Aim

To compare macroecological patterns between bird communities of European cities and regional species assemblages in the surrounding landscape, and to reveal geographical trends in the urbanization of native avifauna.

Location

Forty‐one towns and cities in continental Europe.

Methods

We compiled data on the species richness and community composition of urban avifauna from 41 European city breeding bird atlases, and of species assemblages comprising nine grid cells (each about 50 km × 50 km) from the EBCC Atlas of European Breeding Birds (hereafter regional assemblages). Species–area relationships (SARs), latitudinal trends in diversity and the distance decay of community similarity were compared using regression models (generalized linear models). Observed urban communities were compared with randomly assembled ones to reveal systematic effects of the urban environment on native bird communities across Europe. We employed variance partitioning to quantify the relative effect of environmental parameters and the spatial position of cities on species richness.

Results

The species–area relationships did not differ significantly between cities and regional assemblages. Species richness of both types of communities increased towards higher latitudes, although the relationship was unimodal for regional assemblages, in contrast to cities. The increase in beta diversity with distance was on average less pronounced in cities than in regional assemblages, and was lower between individual cities than between communities of the same size randomly drawn from regional species assemblages. Moreover, average beta diversity was lower in northern cities, which are characterized by a relatively higher proportion of species from regional species pools.

Main conclusions

The species–area relationship and latitudinal trends are largely congruent between cities and the regional assemblages. However, city avifaunas tend to be relatively more uniform across space, revealing biotic homogenization. Urban communities in northern cities are more uniform as a higher proportion of bird species breeds in cities.
Screening orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) germplasm for high rust resistance and high summer survival rate in a subtropical climate
Authors: Yan Haidong , Zeng Bing , Zhang Xinquan , Cheng Liang , Miller Stephen , Huang Linkai
Published: November 2013

Orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) is one of the most important cool‐season forage grasses around the world, and is among the fourth top selling grass seed behind Lolium, Festuca and Phleum. However, the available orchardgrass varieties have low summer survival rates and are susceptible to rust caused by Puccinia graminis Pers., resulting in lower yields and poor quality growth in subtropical regions of China. The summer survival rate, degree of rust resistant, and the correlation of rust resistance with summer survival rate of 242 germplasm resources of D. glomerata, from five continents of the world, were investigated in a field screening for 2 years (2011 and 2012) at the southern part of China. Results showed that 13 accessions were scored high disease resistance for the 2 years, and 36 were scored a summer survival rate of 100%. Thirteen accessions of orchardgrass were screened for disease resistance and high summer survival rate (≥80%), including two accessions named PI325293 and PI308794 with a high disease resistance and summer survival rate of 100% in the 2‐year studies. The correlation between rust resistance and summer survival rate was low (r = 0.111 P = 0.295 in 2011, r = 0.112 P = 0.674 in 2012). These two accessions may serve as potential genetic materials to plant breeders for developing orchardgrass varieties that contain high rust resistance and summer survival rate. These results will also contribute to the conservation and utilization of orchardgrass germplasm.
What prescribing means to pharmacists: a qualitative exploration of practising pharmacists in Alberta
Authors: Hughes Christine A , Makowsky Mark , Sadowski Cheryl A , Schindel Theresa J , Yuksel Nese , Guirguis Lisa M
Published: November 2013

Objective

In 2007 Alberta, Canada, became the first North American jurisdiction to adopt prescribing legislation for pharmacists. In light of these legislative changes and expanded scope of pharmacy practice, we evaluated what ‘prescribing’ means to pharmacists in Alberta and the application of prescribing in pharmacy practice.

Methods

We invited pharmacists to participate in semi-structured telephone interviews using closed and open-ended questions. Pharmacists working in community, hospital or other settings were selected using a mix of random and purposive sampling. Interviews were audiorecorded and transcribed, and data were entered into nVIVO 9 software. Transcriptions were analysed by two investigators using an interpretive description approach to identify themes.

Key findings

Thirty-eight pharmacists were interviewed, of whom 13 had additional (independent) prescribing authorization. Prescribing had a wide breadth of meaning to the pharmacists in our study, which included writing a new prescription and extending an existing prescription, as well as advising on non-prescription medications. Pharmacists described prescribing in terms of the physical act of writing the prescription and as part of the patient care process as well as the legislated definition of pharmacist prescribing. The sense of increased responsibility associated with prescribing was noted by many pharmacists.

Conclusion

Prescribing had diverse meanings to pharmacists in our study, and appeared to be context-specific. Understanding the meaning prescribing holds for individual pharmacists is important to explore whether pharmacist’s definition of this expanded scope has shaped pharmacists’ enactment of prescribing practice.
Aphasia and Dysarthria in Acute Stroke: Recovery and Functional Outcome
Authors: Ali Myzoon , Lyden Patrick , Brady Marian
Published: November 2013

Background

Aphasia and dysarthria have major implications for activities of daily living and social participation following stroke. Few studies describe recovery in the acute stroke setting. We described the evolution of aphasia and dysarthria by three-months poststroke.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of pooled clinical trial data from the Virtual International Stroke Trials Archive. We defined aphasia and dysarthria at baseline as a score of ≥1 on the Best Language (Item 9) and Dysarthria (Item 10) domains of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, respectively. We described recovery from these impairments by three-months. Covariate adjusted analyses described the associations between aphasia, dysarthria, and functional outcome using the modified Rankin Scale at three-months following stroke.

Results

At baseline, 4039/8904 (45·4%) people presented with aphasia and 6192 (69·5%) with dysarthria; 2639 (29·6%) had both impairments. By three-months, aphasia and dysarthria had resolved in 1292/7219 (17·9%) and 2892/7219 (40·1%) survivors, respectively, but persisted in 1713/7219 (23·7%) and 1940/7219 (27%), respectively. Age and severity of initial stroke were associated with poor recovery, whereas thrombolysis was associated with improved recovery. Aphasia at baseline [ P = 0·049, odds ratio = 0·89, 95% confidence interval (0·79,1·00)] and persistent aphasia at three-months [ P < 0·0001, odds ratio = 0·31, 95% confidence interval (0·27, 0·35)] were each associated with poorer modified Rankin Scale scores at three-months.

Conclusion

Aphasia or dysarthria persisted in at least a quarter of people in our dataset at three-months following stroke. The association between persistent aphasia at three-months and poor modified Rankin Scale renders this impairment a major therapeutic target for recovery and restitution.
Genetic variability of human metapneumo‐ and bocaviruses in children with respiratory tract infections
Authors: Pogka Vasiliki , Moutousi Afroditi , Kossyvakis Athanasios , Kalliaropoulos Antonios , Sgouras Dionyssios N. , Giannaki Maria , Mentis Andreas F.
Published: November 2013

Objectives

The genotypic analysis of human metapneumo‐(HMPV) and boca‐(HBoV) viruses circulating in Greece and their comparison to reference and other clinical strains.

Design

Genetic analysis of representative strains over three consecutive winter seasons of the years 2005–2008.

Setting

Representative positive specimens for HMPV and HBoV from paediatric patients of healthcare units and hospitals in Southern Greece with influenza‐like illness or other respiratory tract infections.

Sample

Seven to ten positive specimens for either HMPV or HBoV from each winter period. In total, 24 specimens positive for HMPV and 26 for HBoV, respectively.

Main outcome measures

Sequence diversity of HMPV and HBoV strains by sequencing the complete G and VP1/VP2 genes, respectively.

Results

In total, 24 HMPV strains were found to have a 92–100% nucleotide and a 85.9–100% amino acid identity. Phylogenetic analysis based on the number of amino acid differences, revealed circulation of 4 different subclusters belonging to genetic lineage B2. Similarly, analysis of 26 HBoV strains indicated that 22 clustered within genotype St2, 2 into genotype St1 and the remaining 2 formed a third cluster derived from potential recombination between different St1 genotype strains. St2 HBoV genotype was observed throughout the whole observation period whereas St1 only during the second and the third winter period. Higher levels of heterogeneity were observed between HMPV compared to HBoV strains.

Conclusions

Phylogenetic analysis revealed circulation of one single lineage (B2) for HMPV viruses and predominance of St2 genotype for HBoV viruses. A possible recombination between St1 genotype strains of HBoV was observed.
Analysis of the acute‐phase protein response in pigs to clinical and subclinical infection with H3N2 swine influenza virus
Authors: Pomorska‐Mól Małgorzata , Krzysztof Kwit , Pejsak Zygmunt , Markowska‐Daniel Iwona
Published: November 2013

Background

Swine influenza (SI) is a contagious, important respiratory disease. Diagnosis of SI is based on the clinical signs, confirmed by the detection of viral RNA or specific antibodies. However, the infection is much more frequent than the disease.

Objectives

The aim of study was to investigate the kinetics of acute‐phase protein (APP) response during subclinical and clinical influenza in pigs. The utility of APP measurements in identification of infected animals was also evaluated.

Methods

Twenty‐eight piglets were used. C‐reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin (Hp), serum amyloid A (SAA) and pig major acute‐phase protein (Pig‐MAP) concentrations in serum were measured using commercial ELISAs.

Results and Conclusions

No relevant clinical signs were observed in intranasally infected pigs. In contrast, coughing, nasal discharge, and fever were observed in pigs infected intratracheally. All infected pigs exhibited specific antibodies in the serum at 10 dpi, and viral shedding was confirmed. The concentrations of CRP, Hp and SAA were significantly increased after infection. The level of Pig‐MAP remained constant during subclinical and clinical infection. The concentrations of CRP, Hp and SAA were higher in pigs with clinical disease. Although not specific, strategic APP measurements may reveal ongoing clinical and subclinical infection. A close relationship between the magnitude of serum APP response with the severity of disease, providing an objective tool for validation the severity of infection. The maximum concentration of SAA in serum was closely correlated with lung score and makes this APP potential indicator for disease progress or estimation of treatment strategy.
Excess mortality impact of two epidemics of pandemic influenza A(H1N1pdm09) virus in Hong Kong
Authors: Wu Peng , Goldstein Edward , Ho Lai‐Ming , Wu Joseph T. , Tsang Thomas , Leung Gabriel M. , Cowling Benjamin J.
Published: November 2013

Hong Kong experienced two large epidemics of pandemic influenza A(H1N1pdm09). We used regression methods to estimate the excess mortality associated with each epidemic. The first epidemic of H1N1pdm09 peaked in September 2009 and was associated with 2·13 [95% confidence interval (CI): −8·08, 11·82] excess all‐cause deaths per 100 000 population. The second epidemic of H1N1pdm09 in early 2011 was associated with 4·72 [95% CI: −0·70, 10·50] excess deaths per 100 000 population. More than half of the estimated excess all‐cause deaths were attributable to respiratory causes in each epidemic. The reasons for substantial impact in the second wave remain to be clarified.
Increased hand washing reduces influenza virus surface contamination in Bangkok households, 2009–2010
Authors: Levy Jens W. , Suntarattiwong Piyarat , Simmerman James M. , Jarman Richard G. , Johnson Kara , Olsen Sonja J. , Chotpitayasunondh Tawee
Published: November 2013

Within a hand‐washing clinical trial, we evaluated factors associated with fomite contamination in households with an influenza‐infected child. Influenza virus RNA contamination was higher in households with low absolute humidity and in control households, suggesting that hand washing reduces surface contamination.
Matrix metalloproteinase inhibition attenuates right ventricular dysfunction and improves responses to dobutamine during acute pulmonary thromboembolism
Authors: Neto‐Neves Evandro M. , Sousa‐Santos Ozelia , Ferraz Karina C. , Rizzi Elen , Ceron Carla S. , Romano Minna M. D. , Gali Luis G. , Maciel Benedito C. , Schulz Richard , Gerlach Raquel F. , Tanus‐Santos Jose E.
Published: November 2013

Activated matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) cause cardiomyocyte injury during acute pulmonary thromboembolism (APT). However, the functional consequences of this alteration are not known. We examined whether doxycycline (a MMP inhibitor) improves right ventricle function and the cardiac responses to dobutamine during APT. APT was induced with autologous blood clots (350 mg/kg) in anaesthetized male lambs pre‐treated with doxycycline (Doxy, 10 mg/kg/day, intravenously) or saline. Non‐embolized control lambs received doxycycline pre‐treatment or saline. The responses to intravenous dobutamine (Dob, 1, 5, 10 μg/kg/min.) or saline infusions at 30 and 120 min. after APT induction were evaluated by echocardiography. APT increased mean pulmonary artery pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance index by ~185%. Doxycycline partially prevented APT‐induced pulmonary hypertension (P < 0.05). RV diameter increased in the APT group (from 10.7 ± 0.8 to 18.3 ± 1.6 mm, P < 0.05), but not in the Doxy+APT group (from 13.3 ± 0.9 to 14.4 ± 1.0 mm, P > 0.05). RV dysfunction on stress echocardiography was observed in embolized lambs (APT+Dob group) but not in embolized animals pre‐treated with doxycycline (Doxy+APT+Dob). APT increased MMP‐9 activity, oxidative stress and gelatinolytic activity in the RV. Although doxycycline had no effects on RV MMP‐9 activity, it prevented the increases in RV oxidative stress and gelatinolytic activity (P < 0.05). APT increased serum cardiac troponin I concentrations (P < 0.05), doxycycline partially prevented this alteration (P < 0.05). We found evidence to support that doxycycline prevents RV dysfunction and improves the cardiac responses to dobutamine during APT.
ATF4 deficiency protects hepatocytes from oxidative stress via inhibiting CYP2E1 expression
Authors: Wang Chunxia , Li Houkai , Meng Qingshu , Du Ying , Xiao Fei , Zhang Qian , Yu Junjie , Li Kai , Chen Shanghai , Huang Zhiying , Liu Bin , Guo Feifan
Published: November 2013

Activating transcription factor (ATF) 4 is involved in the regulation of oxidative stress in fibroblasts and neurons. The role of ATF4 in hepatocytes, however, is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of ATF4 in hepatocytes in oxidative stress under a high‐fat diet (HFD). Here, we showed that palmitate‐stimulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and triglyceride (TG) accumulation is blocked by ATF4 deficiency in primary hepatocytes. Consistently, HFD‐induced oxidative stress, TG accumulation and expression of cytochrome P450, family 2, subfamily, polypeptide 1 (CYP2E1) are also blocked by knocking down ATF4 expression in the mouse liver. This suggests that ATF4 might regulate oxidative stress via CYP2E1 under an HFD. In addition, we observed that expression of CYP2E1 is indirectly regulated by ATF4 in a cAMP‐responsive element binding protein (CREB)‐dependent manner, which can directly activate the CYP2E1 promoter activity. Notably, ATF4‐stimulated ROS production is inhibited in vivo by treatment with diallyl sulphide, a selective CYP2E1 inhibitor. Finally, we showed that ATF4 expression in the liver is responsible for the protective effects against HFD‐induced CYP2E1 expression, oxidative stress, and TG accumulation. Taken together, these observations suggest that ATF4 is a novel regulator of oxidative stress as well as accumulation of TG in response to HFD.
Attitudinal Ambivalence towards Turkey's EU Membership
Authors: Erisen Cengiz , Erisen Elif
Published: November 2013

This article takes a comparative political behaviour approach to examine the multifaceted nature of Turkey's European Union (EU) membership bid from the perspective of the EU citizens. We propose a multidimensional explanation for EU citizens' attitude towards Turkey's membership by referring to the political psychology literature on attitudinal ambivalence. We examine whether EU citizens simultaneously hold multiple and conflicting considerations on Turkey's EU accession bid, and whether this ambivalence has attitudinal consequences. To that end, we use the Eurobarometer 66.1 data set to analyze the EU public attitudes on various aspects of possible Turkish EU membership. The findings show that the EU citizens maintain ambivalent views about Turkish membership across three domain pairs: economy–security, immigration–security and population–culture. The significant impact of these ambivalence domains on increasing support for Turkey's membership to the EU is further discussed in the article.
Combination of a peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐gamma agonist and an angiotensin II receptor blocker attenuates myocardial fibrosis and dysfunction in type 2 diabetic rats
Authors: Shim Chi Young , Song Byeong‐Wook , Cha Min‐Ji , Hwang Ki‐Chul , Park Sungha , Hong Geu‐Ru , Kang Seok‐Min , Lee Jong Eun , Ha Jong‐Won , Chung Namsik
Published: November 2013

Aims/Introduction

We aimed to examine the effect of an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), a peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR)‐gamma agonist, and their combination on myocardial fibrosis and function in type 2 diabetic rats.

Materials and Methods

Five male Long‐Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO) rats and 20 male Otsuka Long‐Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats were used. OLETF rats were assigned to four groups (n = 5 per group) at 28 weeks‐of‐age: untreated, losartan‐treated, rosiglitazone‐treated and combination‐treated. The ARB, losartan, was administered at a dose of 5 mg/kg/day, and the PPAR‐gamma agonist, rosiglitazone, was administered at a dose of 3 mg/kg/day by oral gavage for 12 weeks. Urine and blood samples were collected, and two‐dimensional echocardiograms and strain rate imaging were obtained at 28 and 40 weeks. Cytokines were evaluated by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, and histological analysis was carried out at 40 weeks.

Results

At 40 weeks, the global radial strains of the losartan‐treated (55.7 ± 4.5%, P = 0.021) and combination‐treated groups (59.3 ± 6.7%, P = 0.001) were significantly higher compared with the untreated OLETFs (44.3 ± 10.5%). No difference was observed when compared with LETO rats. Although the rosiglitazone‐treated group showed a better metabolic profile than the untreated OLETF group, there was no difference in the global radial strain (49.8 ± 6.0 vs 44.3 ± 10.5, P = 0.402). The expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, and collagen type I and III were consistently attenuated in the losartan‐treated and combination‐treated OLETF groups, but not in the rosiglitazone‐treated group.

Conclusions

A combination of rosiglitazone and losartan attenuates myocardial fibrosis and dysfunction in type 2 diabetic rats.
Diagnostic accuracy and cost‐effectiveness of dermoscopy in primary care: a cluster randomized clinical trial
Authors: Koelink C.J.L. , Vermeulen K.M. , Kollen B.J. , de Bock G.H. , Dekker J.H. , Jonkman M.F. , van der Heide W.K.
Published: November 2013

Background

The dermoscope improves general practitioners' (GP) sensitivity for melanoma. However, diagnostic accuracy (DA) and cost‐effectiveness of the dermoscope in primary care for the evaluation of all skin lesions suspected of malignancy remains unknown.

Objectives

To determine the DA and cost‐effectiveness of the dermoscope in primary care for skin lesions suspected of malignancy.

Methods

In a cluster randomized clinical trial, 48 Dutch general practices were randomized to either intervention group using a dermoscope or control group using only naked‐eye examination. A total of 194 lesions from 170 patients in the intervention group and 222 lesions from 211 patients in the control group were analysed for DA and cost‐effectiveness.

Results

The percentage of correctly diagnosed lesions in intervention group and control group was 50.5% and 40.5% respectively. This was 61.5% and 22.2% for melanomas. In the intervention group, three malignancies were treated with the expectative treatment option compared to none in the control group. The odds ratio (OR) of a correct diagnosis in the intervention group, compared to control group, was 1.51 (95% CI: 0.96–2.37) P = 0.07. Consequently, the relative risk was 1.25. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was €89 (95% CI −€60 to €598), indicating that using a dermoscope costs an additional €89 for one additional correctly diagnosed patient. Additional analyses showed better effects of dermoscopy compared to the control group for 98% of the bootstrap resamples.

Conclusions

The probability of a correct diagnosis was 1.25 times higher using a dermoscope than without a dermoscope. Although this difference is marginally not statistically significant, dermoscopy in general practice appears to be cost effective. We therefore think that GPs should be trained to use a dermoscope, although they should realize that even with the use of a dermoscope not all lesions will be diagnosed correctly.
Adoptive transfusion of tolerant dendritic cells prolong the survival of renal allografts: a systematic review
Authors: Xia Meng Juan , Shan Juan , Li You Ping , Zhou Yan Ni , Guo Ying Jia , Sun Gui Xiang , Wu Wen Qiao , Feng Li
Published: November 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to systematically review the effects of transfusing Tol‐DCs induced by different methods on renal transplantation and survival time.

Method

PubMed and EMbase were searched for relevant articles from inception to July 20th, 2013. Renal allograft survival time was regarded as the endpoint outcome. The effects of Tol‐DCs on renal transplantation were evaluated semi‐quantitatively.

Results

Sixteen articles were included. There were three sources of Tol‐DCs, including bone marrow, spleen, and thoracic duct lymph node. Rats were administrated cells intravenously and 83% of mice through the portal vein. Four subtypes of bone marrow Tol‐DCs enhanced renal allograft time: immature DCs enhanced allograft survival 4.9‐fold in rats and 2.0‐fold in mice, gene modified DCs enhanced allograft survival 4.4‐fold in rats and 2.2‐fold in mice, and drug and cytokine induced enhanced allograft survival 2.9‐fold and 2.7‐fold, respectively, in rats. Tol‐DCs from the spleen and thoracic duct lymph nodes prolonged allograft survival 2.7‐fold and 1.8‐fold, respectively, in rats. 1‐2×106 doses of Tol‐DCs extended the survival time of rats following renal transplantation. The key mechanisms by which Tol‐DCs enhance allograft and overall survival included: (i) inducing T‐cell hyporeactivity; (ii) reducing the effects of cytotoxic lymphocytes; and (iii) inducing Th2 differentiation.

Conclusion

Bone marrow Tol‐DCs can extend allograft survival and induce immune tolerance in fully MHC‐mismatched renal transplantation in rats and mice. The effects of imDCs and gene modified Tol‐DCs in mice are less marked. In conclusion, a single‐injection of 1‐2×106 doses of bone marrow Tol‐DCs (i.v.), in combination with an immune‐suppressor, a co‐stimulator, and accessory cells can significantly extend renal allograft survival.
Coffee and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: Brewing evidence for hepatoprotection?
Authors: Chen Shaohua , Teoh Narci C , Chitturi Shiv , Farrell Geoffrey C
Published: November 2013

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. Several studies consistently show that coffee drinkers with chronic liver disease have a reduced risk of cirrhosis and a lower incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma regardless of primary etiology. With the increasing prevalence of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) worldwide, there is renewed interest in the effect of coffee intake on NAFLD severity and positive clinical outcomes. This review gives an overview of growing epidemiological and clinical evidence which indicate that coffee consumption reduces severity of NAFLD. These studies vary in methodology, and potential confounding factors have not always been completely excluded. However, it does appear that coffee, and particular components other than caffeine, reduce NAFLD prevalence and inflammation of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis. Several possible mechanisms underlying coffee's hepatoprotective effects in NAFLD include antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects, while a chemopreventive effect against hepatocarcinogenesis seems likely. The so‐far limited data supporting such effects will be discussed, and the need for further study is highlighted.
Rapid and reversible responses to IVIG in autoimmune neuromuscular diseases suggest mechanisms of action involving competition with functionally important autoantibodies
Authors: Berger Melvin , McCallus Daniel E. , Lin Cindy Shin‐Yi
Published: November 2013

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is widely used in autoimmune neuromuscular diseases whose pathogenesis is undefined. Many different effects of IVIG have been demonstrated in vitro, but few studies actually identify the mechanism(s) most important in vivo. Doses and treatment intervals are generally chosen empirically. Recent studies in Guillain‐Barré syndrome and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy show that some effects of IVIG are readily reversible and highly dependent on the serum IgG level. This suggests that in some autoantibody‐mediated neuromuscular diseases, IVIG directly competes with autoantibodies that reversibly interfere with nerve conduction. Mechanisms of action of IVIG which most likely involve direct competition with autoantibodies include: neutralization of autoantibodies by anti‐idiotypes, inhibition of complement deposition, and increasing catabolism of pathologic antibodies by saturating FcRn. Indirect immunomodulatory effects are not as likely to involve competition and may not have the same reversibility and dose‐dependency. Pharmacodynamic analyses should be informative regarding most relevant mechanism(s) of action of IVIG as well as the role of autoantibodies in the immunopathogenesis of each disease. Better understanding of the role of autoantibodies and of the target(s) of IVIG could lead to more efficient use of this therapy and better patient outcomes.
Health and well‐being of secondary school students in New Zealand: Trends between 2001, 2007 and 2012
Authors: Clark Terryann , Fleming Theresa , Bullen Pat , Crengle Sue , Denny Simon , Dyson Ben , Peiris‐John Roshini , Robinson Elizabeth , Rossen Fiona , Sheridan Janie , Teevale Tasileta , Utter Jennifer , Lewycka Sonia
Published: November 2013

Aim

To describe indicators of health and well‐being for New Zealand secondary school students; explore changes between 2001, 2007 and 2012; and compare these findings to international estimates.

Methods

Three national health and well‐being surveys of randomly selected New Zealand secondary school students were conducted. Data are presented as prevalence and variation over time (adjusted odds ratio (aOR)). Comparisons with international estimates were made with subsets of the data.

Results

Between 2001 and 2012, students reported reductions in cigarette use (aOR 0.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.23–0.32), alcohol use (aOR 0.39, 95% CI 0.33–0.46), marijuana use (aOR 0.37, 95% CI 0.31–0.43), sexual abuse (aOR 0.52, 95% CI 0.46–0.58), fighting (aOR 0.63, 95% CI 0.55–0.73), seatbelt use (aOR 1.47, 95% CI 1.31–1.65) and risky driving behaviours (aOR 0.39, 95% CI 0.33–0.45). Positive connections to school (perception that the school cares, aOR 1.22, 95% CI 1.10–1.35; liking school, aOR 1.55, 95% CI 1.33–1.82) and family (good family relationship, aOR 1.83, 95% CI 1.70–1.97) also improved. Indicators that did not improve and compared poorly with international estimates were protected sex (condom use at last sexual intercourse, aOR 0.77, 95% CI 0.68–0.87) and healthy life‐style (daily physical activity, aOR 0.88, 95% CI 0.78–0.99; overweight/obese, aOR 1.09, 95% CI 0.92–1.31). Exposure to family violence (aOR 1.37, 95% CI 1.11–1.68) and depressive symptoms (aOR 1.03, 95% CI 0.91–1.17) also did not improve.

Conclusions

There have been important improvements in the health and well‐being of New Zealand adolescents over a relatively short period. These findings demonstrate that population rates of adolescent risk behaviours are amenable to change. Current policy efforts should not lose momentum, while identified priority areas must be adequately resourced to ensure young people have opportunities to thrive now and in the future.
Concentrations of metronidazole in human plasma and saliva after tablet or gel administration
Authors: de C Bergamaschi Cristiane , Berto Luciana A , Venâncio Paulo C , Cogo Karina , Franz-Montan Michelle , Motta Rogério H L , Santamaria Mauro P , Groppo Francisco C
Published: November 2013

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetic profile of metronidazole (Mtz) tablet and to compare Mtz gel and tablet concentrations in both blood plasma and saliva.

Methods

In this randomized cross-over study with a 1-week washout period, 13 volunteers randomly received one (a single oral dose of 750 mg Mtz (Flagyl® – tablet) and 2) 3 g of 15% Mtz benzoate gel (applied by using a dental tray). The HPLC with ultraviolet detection was used to quantify plasma and saliva concentrations of Mtz. The pharmacokinetic parameters (PPs) areas under the curves from 0 to 48 h (AUC0–48) and from 0 to infinity (AUC0–∞), the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax), the time to Cmax, volume of distribution and renal clearance were determined for Mtz tablet.

Key findings

Considering the Mtz tablet, plasma showed higher Mtz concentration from 6 to 24 h after drug administration and the highest values concerning AUC0–48h and AUC0–∞ than those obtained in saliva (P < 0.05). No significant differences were observed between plasma and saliva concentrations for Mtz gel.

Conclusions

The study showed that some PPs were higher in plasma (P < 0.05) than in saliva concerning Mtz tablet. Gel formulation had similar Mtz bioavailability in plasma and saliva resulting in systemic absorption.
Berberis aetnensis and B. libanotica: a comparative study on the chemical composition, inhibitory effect on key enzymes linked to Alzheimer's disease and antioxidant activity
Authors: Bonesi Marco , Loizzo Monica R , Conforti Filomena , Passalacqua Nicodemo G , Saab Antoine , Menichini Federica , Tundis Rosa
Published: November 2013

Objectives

This study involves for the first time the evaluation of Berberis aetnensis C. Presl. and Berberis libanotica Ehrenb. ex C.K. Schneid. roots for anticholinesterase and antioxidant properties, with the aim to search compounds possibly useful for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

Samples were evaluated for their ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). The antioxidant activity was assayed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical and β-carotene bleaching tests. Berberine and palmatine were isolated by flash chromatography and identified by spectrometric methods as main constituents. Non-polar compounds were analysed by gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

Key findings

Extracts, fractions and isolated compounds inhibited AChE and BChE to varying degrees. The methanol fractions exhibited the strongest AChE inhibitory activity with inhibitory concentration 50% (IC50) of 7.6 and 16.9 μg/ml for B. aetnensis and B. libanotica, respectively. The alkaloid fraction of B. aetnensis inhibited AChE (IC50 of 24.5 μg/ml) and possessed the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 value of 2.2 μg/ml in β-carotene-bleaching test after 30 min of incubation). Berberine was more potent of palmatine against AChE (IC50 of 2.2 and 7.4 μg/ml, respectively).

Conclusions

These findings raise the possibility of developing B. aetnensis and B. libanotica as a promising candidate for the treatment of AD.
Hepatitis B virus depicts a high degree of conservation during the immune‐tolerant phase in familiarly transmitted chronic hepatitis B infection: deep‐sequencing and phylogenetic analysis
Authors: Sede M. , Lopez‐Ledesma M. , Frider B. , Pozzati M. , Campos R. H. , Flichman D. , Quarleri J.
Published: November 2013

When intrafamilial transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) occurs, a virus with the same characteristics interacts with diverse hosts' immune systems and may thus result in different mutations to escape immune pressure. In this study, the HBV genomic characterization was assessed longitudinally after intrafamilial transmission using nucleotide sequence data of phylogenetic and mutational analyses, including those obtained by deep‐sequencing for the first time. Furthermore, HBeAg‐anti‐HBe profile and variability of HBV core‐derived epitopes were also evaluated. Strong evidence was obtained from intrafamilial transmission of HBV genotype D1 by phylogenetic inferences. HBV isolates exhibited high degree (~99%) of genomic conservation for almost 20 years, when patients were persistently HBeAg positive with normal amino transferase levels. This identity remained high among immune‐tolerant siblings. In contrast, it diminished significantly (P = 0.02) when the mother cleared HBeAg (immune clearance phase). By deep‐sequencing, the quantitative analysis of the dynamics of basal core promoter (BCP) (A1762T, G1764A; A1766C; T1773C; 8‐bp deletion; and other) and precore (G1896A) variants among HBV isolates from family members exhibited differences during the follow‐up. However, only those from the mother showed amino acid variations at core protein that would impair their MHC‐II binding. Hence, when intrafamilial transmission occurs, HBV was highly conserved under the immune‐tolerant phase, but it exhibited mutations more frequently during the immune clearance phase. The analysis of the HBV BCP and precore mutants after intrafamilial HBV transmission contributes to a better understanding of how they evolve over time.
Sipunculus nudus Linnaeus, 1766 (Sipuncula): cosmopolitan or a group of pseudo‐cryptic species? An integrated molecular and morphological approach
Authors: Kawauchi Gisele Y. , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: November 2013

Sipunculan taxonomy relies on a limited set of external morphological and internal anatomical characters. In addition, this marine group is characterized by an unusual large number of putatively cosmopolitan species. However, this ‘cosmopolitan’ status could be an artifact of their conserved morphology and the small number of unambiguous taxonomic characters available for delimiting species. Species delimitation can therefore be aided by molecular techniques. We investigated the case of the widespread and common species Sipunculus nudus Linnaeus, 1766 to determine its systematic validity. We analysed the morphology of multiple specimens of S. nudus collected from 11 localities around the world and undertook phylogenetic analyses using molecular sequence data from four genes (28S rRNA, 16S rRNA, histone H3 and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I). High levels of genetic differentiation are present between distantly related populations of the putative species S. nudus. Five distinct lineages were identified by phylogenetic analyses, three of which – the best‐represented populations – can be distinguished morphologically. Our phylogenetic and morphological analyses thus do not favor the cosmopolitan status of S. nudus, suggesting instead that it constitutes a complex of morphologically similar but distinguishable species.