bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Randomized Clinical Trial of Nutrition Education for Improvement of Diet Quality and Inflammation in Iranian Obese Women
Authors: Mohammadshahi Majid , Haidari Fatemeh , Karandish Majid , Ebrahimi Sara , Haghighizadeh Mohammad-Hosein
Published: October 2014

Background. Obesity is considered as a low grade inflammation condition. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nutritional education on diet quality and biomarkers of inflammation in Iranian obese women.Method. Sixty obese women voluntarily participated in this randomized clinical trial and were randomly assigned to intervention or control group(n=30). Intervention group was instructed to attend nutrition education sessions (1 hr/wk, for 3 months) in small groups. Diet quality scores were measured by Healthy Eating Index (HEI). Anthropometric indices and serum concentration of hs-CRP, TNF-α, and adiponectin were measured at the baseline and end of the intervention.Results. There were no significant differences in anthropometric indices of participants between the two groups at the end of intervention(P>0.05). However, the total HEI score was significantly higher in the educated group compared to the control group after intervention(P<0.05). The educated group also showed significant lower concentration of TNF-αand hs-CRP and higher levels of adiponectin than the control group at the end of study(P<0.05).Conclusions. Our results provide limited evidence that higher dietary quality contributes to reduced inflammation in obese women. This effect could be independent of the weight loss.
Dynamics of Progesterone, TNF-α, and a Metabolite of PGF2α in Blood Plasma of Beef Cows following Embryo Transfer
Authors: Mason M. C. , Copeland J. , Cuadra E. J. , Elsasser T. H. , Jung Y. , Larson J.
Published: October 2014

Lactating beef cows previously synchronized for estrus (d 0) were assigned to four treatments to assess their effectiveness in increasing blood progesterone (P4) and its effects on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) after the transfer of embryos. At the time of transfer (d 7), cows received no treatment (control;n=16), a controlled internal drug releasing device (CIDR;n=16), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG;n=15), or gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH;n=15). Blood samples were taken on d 7, 14, and 21 for analysis of P4 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Blood was collected (every 15 min for 2 h) in half the animals in each treatment group on d 14 and the remaining half on d 21 for analysis of prostaglandin F2α metabolite (PGFM). Retention rates were 56.2, 62.5, 46.7, and 13.3% for cows in the control, CIDR, hCG, and GnRH groups, respectively. Progesterone was greater (P≤0.05) in cows receiving hCG compared to others on d 14. Progesterone in all treatment groups increased from d 7 to d 14 and declined (P≤0.05) from d 14 to d 21. Contrary to pregnant cows, P4 and TNF-α declined from d 7 to d 21 in nonpregnant cows (P≤0.05). Although PGFM increased by d 21, there was no difference between pregnant and nonpregnant cows.
Clinical and Genetic Characteristics of Mexican Patients with Juvenile Presentation of Niemann-Pick Type C Disease
Authors: Piña-Aguilar Raul E. , Vera-Loaiza Aurea , Chacón-Camacho Oscar F. , Zenteno Juan Carlos , Nuñez-Orozco Lilia , Santillán-Hernández Yuritzi
Published: October 2014

Niemann-Pick type C disease (NPC) is a rare lysosomal disease with a protean presentation, ranging from a fatal neonatal course with visceromegaly to an adult presentation with only neurological or psychiatric symptomatology. In this report we describe the genetic and clinical characteristics of 3 Mexican patients from different families with juvenile presentation of NPC. Clinical examination, imaging of central nervous and gastrointestinal system, and EEG were performed. Genetic studies include sequencing and deletion/duplication analysis ofNPC1andNPC2genes. All patients presented with cognitive impairment, ataxia, and supranuclear vertical gaze palsy; one case had gelastic cataplexy. Also they developed epilepsy and cortical atrophy and two patients had thinning ofcorpus callosum. The 3 patients were compound heterozygotes forNPC1sequence variants, including 5 missense and 1 nonsense mutations: p.P1007A and p.F1087L in Case 1; p.Q921P and p.G992R in Case 2; and p.R348* and p.V1165M in case 3. Mexican patients with juvenile NPC presented with a variable clinical phenotype and compound heterozygosity. This suggests a relative high frequency of mutation carriers as it is reported for European population. Consequently, clinicians should consider NPC as a diagnosis possibility in any adolescent or young adult patient with juvenile dementia and/or ataxia, even in absence of gelastic cataplexy and supranuclear vertical gaze palsy.
Scheduling Mixed-Model Production on Multiple Assembly Lines with Shared Resources Using Genetic Algorithms: The Case Study of a Motorbike Company
Authors: Costantino Francesco , De Toni Alberto Felice , Di Gravio Giulio , Nonino Fabio
Published: October 2014

The authors deal with the topic of the final assembly scheduling realized by the use of genetic algorithms (GAs). The objective of the research was to study in depth the use of GA for scheduling mixed-model assembly lines and to propose a model able to produce feasible solutions also according to the particular requirements of an important Italian motorbike company, as well as to capture the results of this change in terms of better operational performances. The “chessboard shifting” of work teams among the mixed-model assembly lines of the selected company makes the scheduling problem more complex. Therefore, a complex model for scheduling is required. We propose an application of the GAs in order to test their effectiveness to real scheduling problems. The high quality of the final assembly plans with high adherence to the delivery date, obtained in a short elaboration time, confirms that the choice was right and suggests the use of GAs in other complex manufacturing systems.
Preclinical Activity of Nanoliposomal Irinotecan Is Governed by Tumor Deposition and Intratumor Prodrug Conversion
Authors: Kalra Ashish V. , Kim Jaeyeon , Klinz Stephan G. , Paz Nancy , Cain Jason , Drummond Daryl C. , Nielsen Ulrik B. , Fitzgerald Jonathan B.
Published: October 2014

A major challenge in the clinical use of cytotoxic chemotherapeutics is maximizing efficacy in tumors while sparing normal tissue. Irinotecan is used for colorectal cancer treatment but the extent of its use is limited by toxic side effects. Liposomal delivery systems offer tools to modify pharmacokinetic and safety profiles of cytotoxic drugs. In this study, we defined parameters that maximize the antitumor activity of a nanoliposomal formulation of irinotecan (nal-IRI). In a mouse xenograft model of human colon carcinoma, nal-IRI dosing could achieve higher intratumoral levels of the prodrug irinotecan and its active metabolite SN-38 compared with free irinotecan. For example, nal-IRI administered at doses 5-fold lower than free irinotecan achieved similar intratumoral exposure of SN-38 but with superior antitumor activity. Tumor response and pharmacokinetic modeling identified the duration for which concentrations of SN-38 persisted above a critical intratumoral threshold of 120 nmol/L as determinant for antitumor activity. We identified tumor permeability and carboxylesterase activity needed for prodrug activation as critical factors in achieving longer duration of SN-38 in tumors. Simulations varying tumor permeability and carboxylesterase activity predicted a concave increase in tumor SN-38 duration, which was confirmed experimentally in 13 tumor xenograft models. Tumors in which higher SN-38 duration was achieved displayed more robust growth inhibition compared with tumors with lower SN-38 duration, confirming the importance of this factor in drug response. Overall, our work shows how liposomal encapsulation of irinotecan can safely improve its antitumor activity in preclinical models by enhancing accumulation of its active metabolite within the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Res; 74(23); 7003–13. ©2014 AACR.
IGF2 Preserves Osteosarcoma Cell Survival by Creating an Autophagic State of Dormancy That Protects Cells against Chemotherapeutic Stress
Authors: Shimizu Takatsune , Sugihara Eiji , Yamaguchi-Iwai Sayaka , Tamaki Sakura , Koyama Yuko , Kamel Walied , Ueki Arisa , Ishikawa Tomoki , Chiyoda Tatsuyuki , Osuka Satoru , Onishi Nobuyuki , Ikeda Hiroko , Kamei Junzo , Matsuo Koichi , Fukuchi Yumi , Nagai Toshihiro , Toguchida Junya , Toyama Yoshiaki , Muto Akihiro , Saya Hideyuki
Published: October 2014

Osteosarcoma is a malignant bone tumor in children and adolescents characterized by intrinsic therapeutic resistance. The IGF2 is expressed at elevated levels in osteosarcoma after treatment with chemotherapy, prompting an examination of its functional contributions to resistance. We found that continuous exposure to IGF2 or insulin in the absence of serum created a dormant growth state in osteosarcoma cells that conferred resistance to various chemotherapeutic drugs in vitro. Mechanistic investigations revealed that this dormant state correlated with downregulation of downstream signaling by the IGF1 receptor, heightened cell survival, enhanced autophagy, and the presence of extracellular glutamine. Notably, inhibiting autophagy or depleting glutamine was sufficient to increase chemotherapeutic sensitivity in osteosarcoma xenografts in mice. Clinically, we confirmed that IGF expression levels were elevated in human osteosarcoma specimens from patients who received chemotherapy. Together, our results suggest that activation of IGF or insulin signaling preserves the survival of osteosarcoma cells under chemotherapeutic stress, providing a drug-resistant population that may engender minimal residual disease. Attenuating this survival mechanism may help overcome therapeutic resistance in osteosarcoma. Cancer Res; 74(22); 6531–41. ©2014 AACR.
The Power of Programming and the EarlyNutrition Project: Opportunities for Health Promotion by Nutrition during the First Thousand Days of Life and Beyond
Authors: Koletzko Berthold , Brands Brigitte , Chourdakis Michael , Cramer Simone , Grote Veit , Hellmuth Christian , Kirchberg Franca , Prell Christine , Rzehak Peter , Uhl Olaf , Weber Martina
Published: October 2014

At The Power of Programming 2014 Conference, researchers from multiple disciplines presented and discussed the effects of early nutrition and other environmental cues during the first thousand days of life and beyond on the lifelong risk of noncommunicable diseases. This paper aims to summarize the concepts and some of the first achievements of the EarlyNutrition research project that initiated the conference. The EarlyNutrition consortium is a multinational, multidisciplinary research collaboration of researchers from Europe, the USA, and Australia. A focus is placed on exploration of the developmental origins of obesity, adiposity, and related health outcomes. Here we report on the first findings of experimental approaches, cohort studies, randomized clinical trials, and systematic reviews of current information, as well as position papers, which have all been developed with the involvement of project partners. We conclude that the EarlyNutrition project has successfully established itself during the first 2 project years as a very strong platform for collaborative research on early programming effects. The first results, available already at this early stage of the project, point to great opportunities for health prevention strategies via the implementation of dietary and lifestyle modifications, with large effect sizes. Further results are expected which should support improved recommendations and related policies for optimized nutrition and lifestyle choices before and during pregnancy, in infancy, and in early childhood.
Dietary and Lifestyle Advice for Pregnant Women Who Are Overweight or Obese: The LIMIT Randomized Trial
Authors: Dodd Jodie M.
Published: October 2014

Overweight and obesity during pregnancy are common and are associated with an increased risk of adverse health outcomes for both the mother and the infant. However, robust evidence about the effect of antenatal dietary and lifestyle interventions on health outcomes is lacking. We conducted a multicenter, randomized trial, recruiting 2,212 women (from 3 public maternity hospitals across South Australia) with a singleton pregnancy between 10+0 and 20+0 weeks' gestation and a BMI ≥25. The women were randomized to lifestyle advice (n = 1,108) or standard care (n = 1,104). Women randomized to lifestyle advice participated in a comprehensive dietary and lifestyle intervention over the course of their pregnancy (delivered by research staff), while women randomized to standard care received pregnancy care according to local guidelines, which did not include such information. Provision of the lifestyle intervention was associated with a significant 18% relative risk reduction in the chance of infants being born with a birth weight above 4 kg. No other significant differences were identified in maternal pregnancy and birth outcomes between the two treatment groups. Observational studies highlight the association between a high infant birth weight and the subsequent risk of childhood and adulthood obesity. Antenatal interventions that are effective in reducing high infant birth weights therefore represent a significant strategy to tackle obesity from a population health perspective, while ongoing interrogation of the biospecimens and measurements, including ongoing childhood follow-up, will provide a unique opportunity to evaluate the mechanistic pathways of maternal-to-infant/childhood obesity.
Epigenetic Change as the Major Mediator of Fetal Programming in Humans: Are We There Yet?
Authors: Saffery Richard
Published: October 2014

The developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) hypothesis predicts that environmental exposures experienced early in life have the potential to modify the risk associated with later-onset disease. The DOHaD hypothesis is supported by a large number of direct animal studies and a smaller number of compelling observational studies in humans, but the mechanism(s) underlying the ‘programming' effects of DOHaD remain largely unclear. Given the inherent property of environmental sensitivity, the demonstrated role in gene regulation, and the capacity for stable maintenance over time once established, epigenetic variation has rapidly emerged as a candidate mediator of such effects. However, little direct evidence exists in humans, primarily due to the inherent problems associated with unraveling the relative contributions of genetic and environmental influences to phenotypic outcomes. Robust evidence is required in several domains to establish epigenetic variation in the causal pathway to DoHAD-associated disease. Firstly, interindividual epigenetic variability in response to specific early-life environmental exposures needs to be demonstrated. Further, compelling data linking specific epigenetic variants to specific disease(s) is needed. Epigenetic variation should be apparent in a tissue relevant to the disease of interest prior to phenotypic onset in order to avoid confounding and the potential for reverse causation. Finally, the functional relevance of specific epigenetic change must be demonstrated. Compelling evidence is mounting in each of these domains but remains somewhat fragmented, providing small pieces of the overall complex puzzle. It is likely that only large longitudinal life course studies commencing prior to birth, with extensive environmental exposure data and biospecimens, can provide direct evidence in support of a role of epigenetic processes as drivers of the DOHaD in humans.
Ethnic Disparities in General and Abdominal Adiposity at School Age: A Multiethnic Population-Based Cohort Study in The Netherlands
Authors: Gishti Olta , Kruithof Claudia J. , Felix Janine F. , Raat Hein , Hofman Albert , Duijts Liesbeth , Gaillard Romy , Jaddoe Vincent W.V.
Published: October 2014

Background/Aims: Ethnic differences in obesity prevalence have been reported. We examined ethnic differences in general and abdominal fat distribution in school-age children and the influence of parental prepregnancy, pregnancy, and childhood factors on these differences. Methods: We performed a multiethnic population-based prospective cohort study among 5,244 children with information about prepregnancy factors, pregnancy, and childhood factors. At the age of 6 years, the BMI, total fat mass, android/gynoid fat mass ratio, and preperitoneal fat mass were assessed via dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and abdominal ultrasound. Results: The overweight and obesity prevalences among Dutch children were 10.0 and 2.1%, respectively. Higher prevalences were observed among Cape Verdean (21.0 and 10.3%), Dutch Antillean (18.4 and 13.8%), Moroccan (20.6 and 7.7%), Surinamese-Creole (13.4 and 7.7%), Surinamese-Hindustani (12.3 and 6.2%), and Turkish (23.8 and 12.0%) children. In the models adjusted for age and sex only, Moroccan, Surinamese-Hindustani, and Turkish children had a higher total fat mass than Dutch children, whereas Surinamese-Creole children had a lower total fat mass. Compared to Dutch children, the android/gynoid fat mass ratio was higher in Moroccan, Surinamese-Hindustani, and Turkish children, whereas the preperitoneal fat mass was higher among Dutch Antillean, Moroccan, Surinamese-Hindustani, and Turkish children (all p < 0.05). Prepregnancy factors explained up to 73% of these differences. In addition to prepregnancy factors, pregnancy factors explained up to 34% of the differences. Childhood factors did not significantly explain these associations. Conclusions: All ethnic minority groups had higher risks of overweight and obesity than Dutch children. Moroccan, Surinamese-Hindustani, and Turkish children also had an adverse body fat profile. Prepregnancy and pregnancy might be critical periods for preventive strategies focused on the reduction of ethnic disparities in childhood adiposity.
Insights from the Growing Up in Singapore Towards Healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) Cohort Study
Authors: Soh Shu-E , Chong Yap-Seng , Kwek Kenneth , Saw Seang-Mei , Meaney Michael J. , Gluckman Peter D. , Holbrook Joanna D. , Godfrey Keith M. ,   on behalf of the GUSTO Study Group
Published: October 2014

Background: The dramatic emergence of noncommunicable diseases (NCD) in Asia, albeit with ethnic variation, has coincided with the rapid socioeconomic and nutritional transition taking place in the region, with the prevalence of diabetes rising 5-fold in Singapore in less than 4 decades. The Growing Up in Singapore Towards healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) cohort study recruited 1,247 expectant mothers of Chinese, Malay, or Indian ethnicity in their first trimester, with detailed longitudinal tracking - through the antenatal period, birth, and the child's first 4 years of life - to examine the potential roles of fetal, developmental, and epigenetic factors in early pathways to metabolic and neurodevelopmental outcomes. Key Messages: A number of findings with a translational and clinical focus have already emerged. In the mothers, we found that changes and differences in food consumption varied across ethnic groups, with persistence of traditional beliefs, during pregnancy and the postpartum period. During pregnancy, higher maternal glucose levels, even in the absence of gestational diabetes mellitus, had graded relations with infant adiposity. Relations between maternal emotional health and birth outcomes and neurodevelopment have been identified. Genotype (25%) and in particular gene × environment interactions (75%) shape interindividual variations in the DNA methylome at birth. The complex effects of fixed genetic variations and different in utero environments can influence the epigenetic status at birth and the later-life phenotype. Conclusions: The richness of the clinical data in 3 ethnicities, the extent of the biospecimen collection, and the extensive infancy and preschool follow-up have allowed us to study the biological pathways that link fetal development to health outcomes. In the coming years, more sophisticated analyses of epigenotype-phenotype relationships will become possible as the children grow and develop. Our studies will lead to the development of clinical and population-based interventions to reduce the burden of NCD.
Energetic Efficiency of Infant Formulae: A Review
Authors: Fleddermann Manja , Demmelmair Hans , Koletzko Berthold
Published: October 2014

Breast-fed and formula-fed infants differ in terms of nutrient intake, growth, and metabolic and endocrine responses. The energetic efficiency, i.e. the weight or length gain per 100 kcal of energy intake, of breast-fed infants is about 11% higher than the energetic efficiency of formula-fed infants. Only limited data is available on the influence of formula composition on the energetic efficiency of infant formulae. We conducted a review of controlled trials to identify the impact of the macronutrient composition of infant formulae on energetic efficiency. An electronic literature search was conducted in February 2014. Intervention trials that investigated the effect of an infant formula with a modified macronutrient composition and reported the weight, length, and nutritional intake of apparently healthy, term, fully formula-fed infants with a normal weight were included. Thirteen trials met the inclusion criteria. The results showed no effect of the total content of energy, carbohydrate, protein, or fat on energetic efficiency. In contrast, small increasing effects of higher glycemic carbohydrates on energetic efficiency were identified. Improved fat absorption via the use of palmitic acid at the sn-2 ester position of triacylglycerol increased the energetic efficiency by 11%. The quality of formula protein, specifically an increased whey-to-casein ratio, an increased α-lactalbumin content, or a higher tryptophan content increased the energetic efficiency by about 13%. We conclude that fat absorption and protein quality have the potential to modulate energetic efficiency and may contribute to the observed differences in growth and metabolism between breast-fed and formula-fed infants.
Influences on Adherence to Diet and Physical Activity Recommendations in Women and Children: Insights from Six European Studies
Authors: Inskip Hazel , Baird Janis , Barker Mary , Briley Annette L. , D'Angelo Stefania , Grote Veit , Koletzko Berthold , Lawrence Wendy , Manios Yannis , Moschonis George , Chrousos George P. , Poston Lucilla , Godfrey Keith
Published: October 2014

Background: Across Europe, poor health behaviours are associated with increased risks of non-communicable diseases. There is particular concern about young women, children and families, not least as health behaviours operating before and during pregnancy and in early postnatal life may have profound long-term consequences for children's health. Using findings drawn from 7 European countries, we aimed to identify barriers to the implementation and uptake of dietary and physical activity recommendations, and to consider how best to achieve changes in mothers' behaviours and thereby improve the adoption of health recommendations. Six studies across the 7 countries were used for this narrative synthesis of findings. Key Messages: A woman's education has a strong influence on her own and her children's health behaviours. Women's diets vary across ethnic groups and according to number of children, but psychological factors, such as self-efficacy and sense of control, which may be amenable to modification, are powerful, too, particularly in women with lower educational attainment. Maternal influences on children's behaviours are strong. Differences exist in infant feeding across countries, and there are apparent urban/rural differences in children's diets and physical activity. Conclusions: Interventions are needed before, as well as during, pregnancy to improve the diets of families with young children. Interventions to address psychological barriers to eating well and being more active are indicated.
Etiologic Classification of TIA and Minor Stroke by A-S-C-O and Causative Classification System as Compared to TOAST Reduces the Proportion of Patients Categorized as Cause Undetermined
Authors: Desai Jamsheed A. , Abuzinadah Ahmad R. , Imoukhuede Oje , Bernbaum Manya L. , Modi Jayesh , Demchuk Andrew M. , Coutts Shelagh B.
Published: October 2014

Background: The assortment of patients based on the underlying pathophysiology is central to preventing recurrent stroke after a transient ischemic attack and minor stroke (TIA-MS). The causative classification of stroke (CCS) and the A-S-C-O (A for atherosclerosis, S for small vessel disease, C for Cardiac source, O for other cause) classification schemes have recently been developed. These systems have not been specifically applied to the TIA-MS population. We hypothesized that both CCS and A-S-C-O would increase the proportion of patients with a definitive etiologic mechanism for TIA-MS as compared with TOAST. Methods: Patients were analyzed from the CATCH study. A single-stroke physician assigned all patients to an etiologic subtype using published algorithms for TOAST, CCS and ASCO. We compared the proportions in the various categories for each classification scheme and then the association with stroke progression or recurrence was assessed. Results: TOAST, CCS and A-S-C-O classification schemes were applied in 469 TIA-MS patients. When compared to TOAST both CCS (58.0 vs. 65.3%; p < 0.0001) and ASCO grade 1 or 2 (37.5 vs. 65.3%; p < 0.0001) assigned fewer patients as cause undetermined. CCS had increased assignment of cardioembolism (+3.8%, p = 0.0001) as compared with TOAST. ASCO grade 1 or 2 had increased assignment of cardioembolism (+8.5%, p < 0.0001), large artery atherosclerosis (+14.9%, p < 0.0001) and small artery occlusion (+4.3%, p < 0.0001) as compared with TOAST. Compared with CCS, using ASCO resulted in a 20.5% absolute reduction in patients assigned to the ‘cause undetermined' category (p < 0.0001). Patients who had multiple high-risk etiologies either by CCS or ASCO classification or an ASCO undetermined classification had a higher chance of having a recurrent event. Conclusion: Both CCS and ASCO schemes reduce the proportion of TIA and minor stroke patients classified as ‘cause undetermined.' ASCO resulted in the fewest patients classified as cause undetermined. Stroke recurrence after TIA-MS is highest in patients with multiple high-risk etiologies or cryptogenic stroke classified by ASCO.
Personal Genomics in Greece: An Overview of Available Direct-to-Consumer Genomic Services and the Relevant Legal Framework
Authors: Kechagia Sotiria , Mai Yuan , Vidalis Takis , Patrinos George P. , Vayena Effy
Published: October 2014

Background: This article provides an overview of direct-to-consumer (DTC) genomic services that are currently available in Greece and the legal framework within which they operate. Methods: Here, we describe the landscape of the DTC genomic testing companies and laboratories by conducting a systematic Ιnternet search for relevant websites. We examine the existing legal framework regarding genetic testing in Greece by a review of present regulation. Although Greece does not have explicit legal provisions for DTC genomics, several other laws, including soft law mechanisms, create the broader legal framework within which DTC genomic services may exist. Results/Conclusions: While the current legal framework creates a flexible environment that is conducive to DTC genomic operations, it is also ambiguous about the legality of some specific services. Given the growing DTC activity in Greece, we argue that it is important to both enforce compliance with existing law and clarify legal ambiguities that may risk limiting the power of legal protections that ought to be afforded to consumers.
Half-life extension technologies for haemostatic agents
Authors: Mannuccio Pier Mannucci
Published: October 2014

The use of plasma-derived and recombinant coagulation factors for the treatment of haemophilia A and B is well established and permits patients to live a relatively normal life. In order to improve treatment options, several products are in development, which have a prolonged duration of action, thus enabling less frequent prophylactic dosing and aiming to reduce the burden of treatment. Several innovative approaches are being pursued to extend the half-life of factor VIIa, factor VIII and factor IX, utilising technologies such as Fc fusion, recombinant albumin fusion and addition of polyethyleneglycol (PEG) (PEG ylation). These methods prolong the time in the circulation by reducing degradation and elimination. This review summarises the technologies and products in development and their stages of development, and also discusses their pros and cons.
Red cell distribution width is associated with incident venous thromboembolism (VTE) and case-fatality after VTE in a general population
Authors: Lappegård Jostein , Skjelbakken Tove , Brækkan Sigrid , Hansen John-Bjarne , Ellingsen Trygve S.
Published: October 2014

Recent studies suggest an association between red cell distribution width (RDW) and incident venous thromboembolism (VTE). We aimed to investigate the impact of RDW on risk of incident and recurrent VTE, and case-fatality, in a general population. RDW was measured in 26,223 participants enrolled in the Tromsø Study in 1994–1995. Incident and recurrent VTE events and deaths during follow-up were registered until January 1, 2012. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). There were 647 incident VTE events during a median of 16.8 years of follow-up. Individuals with RDW in the highest quartile (RDW≥13.3%) had 50% higher risk of an incident VTE than those in the lowest quartile (RDW≤12.3%). The association was strongest for unprovoked deep-vein thrombosis (HR highest vs lowest quartile of RDW: 1.8, 95% CI 1.1–3.1). VTE patients with baseline RDW≥13.3% had 30% higher risk of all-cause mortality after the initial VTE event than VTE patients with RDW<13.3%. There were no association between RDW and risk of recurrent VTE. Our findings suggest that high RDW is a risk factor of incident VTE, and that RDW is a predictor of all-cause mortality in VTE patients.
Myocardial Perfusion Imaging in Emergency Department Patients With Negative Cardiac Biomarkers
Authors: Cremer Paul C. , Khalaf Shaden , Agarwal Shikhar , Mayer-Sabik Ellen , Ellis Stephen G. , Menon Venu , Cerqueira Manuel D. , Jaber Wael A.
Published: October 2014

Background—

In patients with possible acute coronary syndromes, guidelines recommend routine provocative testing after negative cardiac biomarkers. We hypothesized that myocardial perfusion imaging would be low yield with limited short-term value and that early revascularization would not affect mortality.

Methods and Results—

We identified consecutive patients referred from our emergency department between October 2004 and September 2011 who had myocardial perfusion imaging after negative troponin T tests and nondiagnostic ECGs. We assessed the incidence of abnormal myocardial perfusion imaging, coronary angiography, revascularization, and mortality. In a cohort of 5354 patients (58.7% female, age 59±13, 78.6% thrombolysis in myocardial infarction [TIMI] ≤2), 9% had >5% and 3.6% had >10% ischemic myocardium. Among patients with TIMI scores ≤2, 6.1% had >5% ischemic myocardium compared with 19.6% of patients with TIMI scores ≥3 (
P
<0.001). At 30 days, 7 patients were deceased, 187 had revascularization, and 6 had revascularization for an acute myocardial infarction. Over 3.4±1.9 years of follow-up, 347 patients died. In propensity-matched groups of patients with ischemia, there was no association between early revascularization and mortality (hazard ratio, 1.00; 95% confidence interval, 0.49–2.07).

Conclusions—

Routine provocative testing to detect ischemia before emergency department discharge is low yield in patients with negative troponins and TIMI scores ≤2 and modest yield in patients with TIMI scores ≥3. In all patients, 30 days events are rare. Finally, in patients with ischemia, we are unable to demonstrate a mortality benefit with early revascularization.
Temporal Trends in Coverage of Historical Cardiac Arrests Using a Volunteer-Based Network of Automated External Defibrillators Accessible to Laypersons and Emergency Dispatch Centers
Authors: Hansen Carolina Malta , Lippert Freddy Knudsen , Wissenberg Mads , Weeke Peter , Zinckernagel Line , Ruwald Martin H. , Karlsson Lena , Gislason Gunnar Hilmar , Nielsen Søren Loumann , Køber Lars , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Folke Fredrik
Published: October 2014

Background—

Although increased dissemination of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) has been associated with more frequent AED use, the trade-off between the number of deployed AEDs and coverage of cardiac arrests remains unclear. We investigated how volunteer-based AED dissemination affected public cardiac arrest coverage in high- and low-risk areas.

Methods and Results—

All public cardiac arrests (1994–2011) and all registered AEDs (2007–2011) in Copenhagen, Denmark, were identified and geocoded. AED coverage of cardiac arrests was defined as historical arrests ≤100 m from an AED. High-risk areas were defined as those with ≥1 arrest every 2 years and accounted for 1.0% of the total city area. Of 1864 cardiac arrests, 18.0% (n=335) occurred in high-risk areas throughout the study period. From 2007 to 2011, the number of AEDs and the corresponding coverage of cardiac arrests increased from 36 to 552 and from 2.7% to 32.6%, respectively. The corresponding increase for high-risk areas was from 1 to 30 AEDs and coverage from 5.7% to 51.3%, respectively. Since the establishment of the AED network (2007–2011), few arrests (n=55) have occurred ≤100 m from an AED with only 14.5% (n=8) being defibrillated before the arrival of emergency medical services.

Conclusions—

Despite the lack of a coordinated public access defibrillation program, the number of AEDs increased 15-fold with a corresponding increase in cardiac arrest coverage from 2.7% to 32.6% over a 5-year period. The highest increase in coverage was observed in high-risk areas (from 5.7% to 51.3%). AED networks can be used as useful tools to optimize AED placement in community settings.
Ideal Cardiovascular Health
Authors: Xanthakis Vanessa , Enserro Danielle M. , Murabito Joanne M. , Polak Joseph F. , Wollert Kai C , Januzzi James L. , Wang Thomas J. , Tofler Geoffrey , Vasan Ramachandran S.
Published: October 2014

Background—

The American Heart Association Cardiovascular Health score (CVH score) is inversely associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence, but the mechanisms underlying this association warrant exploration.

Methods and Results—

We related the CVH score to circulating biomarkers and prevalent subclinical CVD (defined as ≥1 of the following: increased carotid intima-media thickness or stenosis, left ventricular hypertrophy [by ECG or echocardiography], left ventricular systolic dysfunction, microalbuminuria, and a reduced ankle-brachial index) in 2680 Framingham Study participants (mean age, 58 years; 55% women). After adjustment for age and sex, an ideal CVH score (nonsmoking status, ideal body mass index, regular physical activity, healthy diet, and an optimal profile of serum cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose; 1 point for each) was associated with higher circulating concentrations of natriuretic peptides (N-terminal pro-atrial natriuretic peptide and B-type natriuretic peptide) and lower blood concentrations of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, aldosterone, C-reactive protein, D-dimer, fibrinogen, homocysteine, and growth differentiation factor-15 levels (
P
<0.001 for all), as well as lower odds of subclinical disease (odds ratio, 0.74 per 1-unit increase in CVH score; 95% confidence interval, 0.68–0.80). The incidence of CVD (267 events over 16 years) was inversely associated with the CVH score in age- and sex-adjusted models (hazard ratio, 0.77 per 1-unit increase in CVH score; 95% confidence interval, 0.70–0.86), which was slightly attenuated upon adjustment for biomarkers and subclinical disease (hazard ratio, 0.87; 95% confidence interval, 0.78–0.97).

Conclusion—

In our prospective community-based study, the inverse association between an ideal cardiovascular health score and CVD incidence was partly attributable to its favorable impact on CVD biomarker levels and subclinical disease.
Investigation of the Effects of Color on Judgments of Sweetness Using a Taste Adaptation Method
Authors: Hidaka Souta , Shimoda Kazumasa
Published: October 2014

It has been reported that color can affect the judgment of taste. For example, a dark red color enhances the subjective intensity of sweetness. However, the underlying mechanisms of the effect of color on taste have not been fully investigated; in particular, it remains unclear whether the effect is based on cognitive/decisional or perceptual processes. Here, we investigated the effect of color on sweetness judgments using a taste adaptation method. A sweet solution whose color was subjectively congruent with sweetness was judged as sweeter than an uncolored sweet solution both before and after adaptation to an uncolored sweet solution. In contrast, subjective judgment of sweetness for uncolored sweet solutions did not differ between the conditions following adaptation to a colored sweet solution and following adaptation to an uncolored one. Color affected sweetness judgment when the target solution was colored, but the colored sweet solution did not modulate the magnitude of taste adaptation. Therefore, it is concluded that the effect of color on the judgment of taste would occur mainly in cognitive/decisional domains.
Three new species of the genus Otacilia Thorell (Araneae: Phrurolithidae)
from China
Authors: FU LINA , JIN CHI , ZHANG FENG
Published: October 2014

Three new species of the spider genus Otacilia are diagnosed, described and illustrated from China: Otacilia fujiana sp. nov. (male, female), O. pseudostella sp. nov. (male, female) and O. zhangi sp. nov. (male).
Apistogramma ortegai (Teleostei: Cichlidae), a new species of cichlid fish from the Ampyiacu River in the Peruvian Amazon basin
Authors: BRITZKE RICARDO , OLIVEIRA CLAUDIO , KULLANDER SVEN O.
Published: October 2014

Apistogramma ortegai, new species, is described from small streams tributaries of the Ampiyacu River near Pebas, in eastern Peru. It belongs to the Apistogramma regani species group and is distinguished from all other species of Apistogramma by the combination of contiguous caudal spot to bar 7, presence of abdominal stripes, short dorsal-fin lappets in both sexes, absence of vertical stripes on the caudal fin, and reduced number of predorsal and prepelvic scales.
Three new species of Thrasychiroides Soares & Soares, 1947 from Brazilian Mountains (Opiliones, Eupnoi, Neopilionidae)
Authors: Pinto-da-Rocha RICARDO , Bragagnolo Cibele , Tourinho ANA Lúcia
Published: October 2014

Three new species of the genus Thrasychiroides are described from the Brazilian Atlantic Rain Forest mountains: Thrasychiroides moporanga sp. nov. (type locality: Reserva Biologica de Alto da Serra de Paranapiacaba, State of São Paulo), T. toryba sp. nov. (type locality: São Francisco de Paula, State of Rio Grande do Sul) and T. ybytyra sp. nov. (type locality: Parque Nacional do Itatiaia, State of Minas Gerais). The male genital of Thrasychiroides brasilicus Soares & Soares, 1947 is illustrated for the first time. A remarkable structure on the penis of Thrasychiroides species is described and defined as pair of “arms”, also considered a putative synapomorphy of the genus.
Platelet and Other Hemostatic Characteristics in Patients With Chronic Urticaria
Authors: Isiksacan Nilgun , Koser Murat , Cemsitoglu Ferhan , Kucuksezer Umut C. , Gurdol Figen
Published: October 2014

Several publications have pointed out the importance of coagulation and fibrinolysis in the occurrence of chronic urticaria (CU), but only a few indicated the direct role of platelets. We assessed platelet aggregation and evaluated parameters of coagulation and fibrinolysis in patients with CU. Patients (n = 34) diagnosed as having CU and 36 healthy controls were enrolled. Platelet aggregation was assayed using an impedance aggregometer and adenosine diphosphate, arachidonic acid, thrombin receptor-activating peptide (TRAP), and ristocetin as agonists. In patients with CU, significantly decreased platelet aggregation to some agonists (ristocetin and TRAP) was observed. The D-dimer levels were elevated, mean platelet volume was decreased, but no alteration was observed in other coagulation assays. Elevated D-dimer levels indicated that coagulation and fibrinolysis are activated in the patients with CU. Evaluation of platelet function may contribute to identify the role of these cells in the pathogenesis of CU.
Renal Stenting for Kidney Salvage in the Management of Renal Artery Atherosclerotic Stenosis
Authors: Martinelli O. , Malaj A. , Antignani P.L. , Frati G. , Belli C. , Venosi S. , Irace L. , Gossetti B. , Gattuso R.
Published: October 2014

We studied the usefulness of preoperative resistance index to select patients who will benefit most from renal stenting. Sixty-two patients underwent renal stenting. All had chronic renal insufficiency with serum creatinine values ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 mg/dL and blood urea nitrogen between 80 and 107 mg/dL. All treated renal artery stenosis were >70%. Reduction in blood pressure in the early stages was observed in 39 (62.9%) patients; 31 (79.4%) patients returned to preoperative values within 12 months. A progressive reduction in creatinine values and blood urea nitrogen was reached in 43 (69.4%) patients, 12 (19.4%) patients remained unchanged, and the remaining 7 (11.2%) patients worsened. The best improvement in renal function was obtained in patients with a resistance index of ≤0.75 A preoperative resistance index up to 0.75 could be used as an indicator to predict which candidates will have improved renal function after stenting.
Emerging Ceramic-based Materials for Dentistry
Authors: Denry I. , Kelly J.R.
Published: October 2014

Our goal is to give an overview of a selection of emerging ceramics and issues for dental or biomedical applications, with emphasis on specific challenges associated with full-contour zirconia ceramics, and a brief synopsis on new machinable glass-ceramics and ceramic-based interpenetrating phase composites. Selected fabrication techniques relevant to dental or biomedical applications such as microwave sintering, spark plasma sintering, and additive manufacturing are also reviewed. Where appropriate, the authors have added their opinions and guidance.
The Catch-22 in Israel’s Parole Law
Authors: Assy Rabeea , Menashe Doron
Published: October 2014

This article reviews the general legal framework governing risk assessment of prisoners in the Israeli parole process. It highlights the excessive power the Israeli courts have accorded to the professional body responsible for providing risk assessments, which severely limits the parole board’s discretion to order conditional release when prisoners persist in denying their crimes. Such prisoners, especially sex offenders, tend to be precluded from participation in treatment courses, thus substantially reducing their prospects of obtaining parole.
Examining Implementation of Risk Assessment in Case Management for Youth in the Justice System
Authors: Peterson-Badali Michele , Skilling Tracey , Haqanee Zohrah
Published: October 2014

Research on implementation of a case management plan informed by valid risk assessment in justice services is important in contributing to evidence-based practice but has been neglected in youth justice. We examined the connections between risk assessment, treatment, and recidivism by focusing on the individual criminogenic needs domain level. Controlling for static risk, dynamic criminogenic needs significantly predicted reoffense. Meeting individual needs in treatment was associated with decreased offending. However, there is “slippage” in the system that reduces practitioners’ ability to effectively address needs. Even in domains where interventions are available, many youth are not receiving services matched to their needs. Implications and limitations of findings are discussed.
Better safe than sorry? The role of stratification and quality of higher education in the labour market outcomes of graduates across Europe
Authors: Livanos Ilias , Nuñez Imanol
Published: October 2014

This article assesses the impact of higher education and academic field of study on young people’s labour market outcomes across Europe. A sequential logit approach is adopted to analyse transitions into (a) labour market participation, (b) employment and (c) permanent contracts. Three waves (2003–2005) of the European Union Labour Force Survey are pooled capturing data on over a million individuals across Europe. The results show that higher education has indeed a positive impact on securing employment, but a more limited effect on assuring permanent contracts. Furthermore, strong differences across countries and academic fields are found, which are explained in the light of the stratification level and quality of the higher education systems across European countries.
Importing low-density ideas to high-density revitalisation: The ‘organising model’ in Denmark
Authors: Arnholtz Jens , Ibsen Christian Lyhne , Ibsen Flemming
Published: October 2014

Why did union officials from a high-union-density country like Denmark choose to import an organising strategy from low-density countries such as the US and the UK? Drawing on in-depth interviews with key union officials and internal documents, the authors of this article argue two key points. First, rather than unions settling for a semi-automatic response to membership decline, the ‘organising model’ was actively imported as a strategic tool for challenging alternative responses to membership decline. Second, the organising model was actively translated into a Danish context and most unions cherry-pick some elements while leaving fundamental aspects out. The study nevertheless indicates that a lack of coherency and model-fit to Danish industrial relations might hamper the positive effects of the organising strategy.
Incidences and Range of Spontaneous Lesions in the Eye of Crl:CD-1(ICR)BR Mice Used in Toxicity Studies
Authors: Mukaratirwa Sydney , Petterino Claudio , Naylor Stuart W. , Bradley Alys
Published: October 2014

The incidence and range of spontaneous pathology findings were determined in the eyes of male and female control Crl:CD-1(ICR)BR mice. Data were collected from 250, 430, 510, and 2,266 mice from control dose groups of 4-, 13-, 80- and 104-week studies, respectively, carried out between 2005 and 2013. Lesions of the eye were very rare in 4- and 13-week studies, uncommon in 80-week studies, and were of relatively higher incidence in 104-week studies. No sex predilection in the incidence of eye lesions was apparent. No neoplastic lesions were observed, and congenital lesions were very rare. The most common findings were cataracts, retinal degeneration, mineral deposits in the iris, keratitis, anterior uveitis, and mineral deposits in the corneal stroma. These lesions were observed only in animals from 80- and 104-week studies, except retinal degeneration which was observed in animals from all age-groups. There are no previous reports of mineral deposits in the iris in this strain of mice. It is hoped that reference to the incidences reported here will facilitate the differentiation of spontaneous lesions from compound-induced lesions in toxicology studies in this strain of mouse.