bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health-Related Quality of Life and Self-Efficacy of Managing Behavior Problems for Family Caregivers of Vascular Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease Patients
Authors: Kuo Li-Min , Huang Huei-Ling , Hsu Wen-Chuin , Shyu Yea-Ing L.
Published: July 2014

Background: Little is known about the differences in patients' behavioral problems and health outcomes of family caregivers of patients with vascular dementia (VaD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods: A secondary analysis of baseline data on a subsample of caregiver-dementia patient dyads in a randomized clinical trial. Results: Family caregivers of VaD patients reported higher self-efficacy than caregivers of AD patients in handling verbally nonaggressive and verbally aggressive behaviors. Caregivers of VaD patients had poorer health-related quality of life (HRQoL) than caregivers of AD patients considering role disability due to physical health problems, bodily pain, social function, and physical component summary. Greater self-efficacy was associated with better mental health-related outcomes for family caregivers of VaD patients, and better self-care ability of VaD patients was associated with better caregiver mental health-related outcomes. Caring for a patient with more severe dementia predicted poor physical health-related outcomes in role disability due to physical health problems, but better overall mental health (mental component summary) for caregivers. Conclusion: This study is the first to examine and compare the behavioral problems of AD and VaD patients in a Chinese population, along with their family caregivers' self-efficacy and health outcomes. Family caregivers of patients with VaD might warrant specific attention to their HRQoL, with interventions developed to enhance their self-efficacy.
Endobronchial Ultrasonography with a Guide Sheath for Pure or Mixed Ground-Glass Opacity Lesions
Authors: Ikezawa Yasuyuki , Sukoh Noriaki , Shinagawa Naofumi , Nakano Kosuke , Oizumi Satoshi , Nishimura Masaharu
Published: July 2014

Background: Ground-glass opacity (GGO) lesions are difficult to diagnose by transbronchial biopsy (TBB). Objectives: We attempted to diagnose solitary peripheral GGO predominant-type lesions by TBB using endobronchial ultrasonography with a guide sheath (EBUS-GS) under X-ray fluoroscopic guidance, and to evaluate several factors associated with diagnostic yield. Methods: The medical records of 67 patients with GGO predominant-type lesions who underwent TBB using EBUS-GS under X-ray fluoroscopic guidance were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Of the 67 lesions, 38 (57%) were successfully diagnosed by EBUS-GS (5/11 pure GGO lesions and 33/56 mixed GGO lesions). The diagnosable lesions were significantly larger than the nondiagnosable lesions (24 vs. 17 mm, respectively; p < 0.01). Regarding the diagnostic yield by signs on computed tomography, the lesions with a bronchus leading directly to a lesion had a significantly higher diagnostic yield than the others (p < 0.05). When GGO lesions were confirmed under X-ray fluoroscopic guidance, the diagnostic yield was 79% (vs. 40% in lesions not visible on X-ray fluoroscopy; p < 0.05). Conclusions: EBUS-GS is a useful and valuable diagnostic modality, even for GGO predominant-type lesions located at the lung periphery.
Intradiploic Dermoid Cyst of the Lateral Frontotemporal Skull: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Vega Rafael A. , Hidlay Douglas T. , Tye Gary W. , Fuller Christine E. , Rhodes Jennifer L.
Published: July 2014

Background: Intradiploic dermoid cysts represent 0.04-0.7% of cranial tumors. Fewer than 20 cases of dermoid cysts occurring in the lateral frontotemporal region with a sinus tract and bony involvement are described, only 7 with intracranial extension. We present the first report of such a lesion arising within the lateral coronal suture. As the literature on this topic grows, the matter of preoperative imaging for soft tissue and bony lesions of the lateral frontotemporal region is evolving, and this report offers a preliminary set of criteria for when imaging is a necessity. Case Report: A 2-year-old male presented with a bony lesion in the right frontotemporal region. Since birth the lesion had grown commensurately with the patient. Examination revealed an immobile hard mass overlying the right coronal suture with no discernable abnormality. Computed tomography demonstrated a cystic lesion without evidence of intracranial extension. Intraoperatively, the exophytic lesion was fully enclosed by bony matrix, interrupting the coronal suture as it approached the pterion. Following resection, pathology revealed an intradiploic dermoid cyst. Conclusion: Intradiploic dermoid cysts occurring within patent cranial sutures away from the midline are rarely described lesions. Complete surgical resection with careful follow-up is the treatment of choice.
Improvements in Renal Replacement Therapy Practice Patterns in Estonia
Authors: Kõlvald Külli , Pechter Ülle , Luman Merike , Ilmoja Madis , Ots-Rosenberg Mai
Published: July 2014

Background: The clinical performance indicators (CPI) are important tools to assess and improve the quality of renal replacement therapy (RRT). The aim of the current study was to compare the results of a longitudinal set of CPI in RRT patients and to determine the extent to which the guidelines for anaemia, calcium phosphate management and other CPI are met in Estonian renal centres. Methods: A long-term retrospective, observational, cross-sectional CPI analysis was undertaken in RRT patients from 2007 to 2011. The following CPI set of well-designed measures based on good evidence was analysed: anaemia management variables, laboratory analyses of mineral metabolism, nutritional status variables and dialysis adequacy variables. Results: Relatively small changes in the analysed mean CPI values were noticed during the study period. In the course of the study, we noticed an improvement in anaemia control, but not all centres achieved the standard of >80% of the dialysis patients with a haemoglobin (Hb) level >100 g/l. There was a trend of decreasing Hb concentrations below 125 g/l in both haemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. In 2011, hyperphosphataemia was present in 58% of the HD and 47% of the PD patients, whereas centre differences varied between 50 and 60% of both the HD and PD patients. HD adequacy was achieved in 77% of the HD patients. Conclusion: An improvement in the data collection was noticed, and the analysis of CPI allows renal centres to assess and compare their practices with others. The collection and evaluation of CPI of RRT patients is an important improvement and significantly increases the awareness of nephrologists.
Is Pentraxin 3 a New Cardiovascular Risk Marker in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Authors: Sari Umut , Kaygusuz Ikbal , Kafali Hasan
Published: July 2014

Background/Aims: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients have an increased rate of subclinical inflammation, which plays a role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is an inflammatory mediator which belongs to the same family as the well-established cardiovascular biomarker C-reactive protein (CRP). The present study was performed to investigate plasma PTX3 levels in patients with PCOS and to determine the relationship between PTX3 and other known cardiovascular risk factors. Methods: 40 patients with PCOS and 40 age- and BMI-matched healthy controls were included in the study. The groups were divided into subgroups according to BMI. Insulin resistance indexes, lipid profile, CRP and PTX3 levels were analyzed. Results: There was no difference for insulin resistance indexes and lipid profile between the PCOS and control groups. CRP levels were significantly higher in obese PCOS and control subjects than in lean subjects, whereas no difference in PTX3 concentrations was observed between subgroups. Conclusion: PTX3 and CRP levels were similar in the PCOS group compared with the non-PCOS control group.
The effect of CYP2C19 gene polymorphisms on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of prasugrel 5-mg, prasugrel 10-mg and clopidogrel 75-mg in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Bergmeijer Thomas , Tantry Udaya , ten Berg Jurrien , Angiolillo Dominick , James Stefan , Lindahl Tomas , Svensson Peter , Jakubowski Joseph , Brown Patricia , Duvvuru Suman , Sundseth Scott , Walker Joseph , Small David , Moser Brian , Winters Kenneth , Erlinge David , Gurbel Paul
Published: July 2014

CYP2C19 genotype has been shown to impact response to clopidogrel 75-mg but not prasugrel 10-mg. Here, we assessed effects of CYP2C19 metaboliser status on pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) responses to prasugrel 5-mg and 10-mg and clopidogrel 75-mg using data from two PK/PD studies in stable coronary artery disease (CAD) patients (GENERATIONS and FEATHER). Active metabolite concentrations (area under the curve, AUC[0-tlast]), maximum platelet aggregation (MPA) measured by light transmission aggregometry, vasodilator- stimulated phosphoprotein platelet reactivity index, and VerifyNow P2Y12-platelet reaction units (VN-PRU) were analysed by CYP2C19-predicted phenotype (extensive metaboliser [EM; N=154], *2-*8 non-carriers, vs reduced metaboliser [RM; N=41],*2-*8 carriers/* 17 non-carriers). AUC(0-tlast) was unaffected by metaboliser status for prasugrel 5-mg and 10-mg (geometric mean EM/RM ratios 1.00, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.86,1.17, p>0.99; and 0.97, 95% CI:0.85,1.12, p=0.71, respectively), but was lower among RMs receiving clopidogrel 75-mg (1.37, 95% CI:1.14,1.65, p<0.001). Platelet reactivity was not significantly affected by CYP2C19 metaboliser status for prasugrel 5-mg, or for prasugrel 10-mg by MPA and VNPRU, but for clopidogrel 75-mg was significantly higher in reduced metabolisers (all measures p<0.01). Prasugrel 10-mg showed greater antiplatelet effects vs clopidogrel 75-mg (all comparisons p<0.001). Prasugrel 5-mg showed greater antiplatelet effects vs clopidogrel 75-mg in RMs (all p<0.001), and comparable effects in EMs (all p≥0.37). In contrast to clopidogrel, prasugrel active metabolite PK was not influenced by CYP2C19 genotype. Antiplatelet effect for prasugrel 10-mg was greater irrespective of metaboliser status and for prasugrel 5-mg was greater for RMs and comparable for EMs as compared to clopidogrel 75-mg.
Prognostic role of MIR146A polymorphisms for cardiovascular events in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Roldán Vanessa , Arroyo Ana Belen , Salloum-Asfar Sallam , Manzano-Fernández Sergio , García-Barberá Nuria , Marín Francisco , Vicente Vicente , González-Conejero Rocío , Martínez Constantino
Published: July 2014

There are few biomarkers able to forecast new thrombotic events in patients with AF. In this framework, microRNAs have emerged as critical players in cardiovascular biology. In particular, miR-146a-5p is recognised as an important negative regulator of inflammation. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic role and biological effect of functional MIR146A polymorphisms, rs2431697 and rs2910164, in non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) patients under oral anticoagulation. We studied 901 patients with permanent/paroxysmal AF stabilized for at least six months. Patients were followed-up for two years and adverse cardiovascular events (ACE) were recorded. In vitro studies were performed in monocytes from healthy homozygous for the two genotypes of rs2431697. Rs2910164 had no association with ACE. However, multivariate analysis (adjusted by CHA2DS2–VASc score) revealed that rs2431697TT was associated with adverse cardiovascular events [HR: 1.64 (1.09–2.47); p=0.017]. The predictive value of usefulness of the CHA2DS2–VASc+IL6+rs2431697 for predicting ACE, was statistically better than that predicted by CHA2DS2–VASc+IL6. Functional studies showed that after 24 hours incubation, monocytes from CC individuals showed a 65 % increase in miR-146a-5p levels, while TT individuals only showed a 28 % increase. Indeed, after 24 hours of LPS activation, TT monocytes showed a higher increase in IL6 mRNA expression than CC (52 % vs 26 %). Our study established MIR146A rs2431697 as a prognostic biomarker for ACE in anticoagulated AF patients. These data suggest that TT individuals, when submitted to an inflammatory stress, may be prone to a highest pro-inflammatory state due, in part, to lower levels of miR-146a-5p.
Identification of a circulating microvesicle protein network involved in ST-elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Vélez Paula , Parguiña Andrés , Ocaranza-Sánchez Raymundo , Grigorian-Shamagian Lilian , Rosa Isaac , Alonso-Orgaz Sergio , Cuesta Fernando de la , Guitián Esteban , Moreu José , Barderas María , González-Juanatey José Ramón , García Ángel
Published: July 2014

Membrane microvesicles (MVs) are released from activated cells, most notably platelets, into the circulation. They represent an important mode of intercellular communication, and their number is increased in patients with acute coronary syndromes. We present here a differential proteomic analysis of plasma MVs from ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients and stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) controls. The objective was the identification of MVs biomarkers/drug targets that could be relevant for the pathogenesis of the acute event. Proteome analysis was based on 2D-DIGE, and mass spectrometry. Validations were by western blotting in an independent cohort of patients and healthy individuals. A systems biology approach was used to predict protein-protein interactions and their relation with disease. Following gel image analysis, we detected 117 protein features that varied between STEMI and SCAD groups (fold change cut-off ≥2; p<0.01). From those, 102 were successfully identified, corresponding to 25 open-reading frames (ORFs). Most of the proteins identified are involved in inflammatory response and cardiovascular disease, with 11 ORFs related to infarction. Among others, we report an up-regulation of α2-macroglobulin isoforms, fibrinogen, and viperin in MVs from STEMI patients. Interestingly, several of the proteins identified are involved in thrombogenesis (e.g. α2-macroglobulin, and fibrinogen). In conclusion, we provide a unique panel of proteins that vary between plasma MVs from STEMI and SCAD patients and that might constitute a promising source of biomarkers/drug targets for myocardial infarction.
Body Mass Index, Sex, and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Among Hispanic/Latino Adults: Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos
Authors: Kaplan Robert C. , Avilés‐Santa M. Larissa , Parrinello Christina M. , Hanna David B. , Jung Molly , Castañeda Sheila F. , Hankinson Arlene L. , Isasi Carmen R. , Birnbaum‐Weitzman Orit , Kim Ryung S. , Daviglus Martha L. , Talavera Gregory A. , Schneiderman Neil , Cai Jianwen
Published: July 2014

Background

All major Hispanic/Latino groups in the
United States
have a high prevalence of obesity, which is often severe. Little is known about cardiovascular disease (
CVD
) risk factors among those at very high levels of body mass index (
BMI
).

Methods and Results

Among
US
Hispanic men (N=6547) and women (N=9797), we described gradients across the range of
BMI
and age in
CVD
risk factors including hypertension, serum lipids, diabetes, and C‐reactive protein. Sex differences in
CVD
risk factor prevalences were determined at each level of
BMI
, after adjustment for age and other demographic and socioeconomic variables. Among those with class
II
or
III
obesity (
BMI
≥35 kg/m
2
, 18% women and 12% men), prevalences of hypertension, diabetes, low high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol level, and high C‐reactive protein level approached or exceeded 40% during the fourth decade of life. While women had a higher prevalence of class
III
obesity (
BMI
≥40 kg/m
2
) than did men (7% and 4%, respectively), within this highest
BMI
category there was a >50% greater relative prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia in men versus women, while sex differences in prevalence of these
CVD
risk factors were ≈20% or less at other
BMI
levels.

Conclusions

Elevated
BMI
is common in Hispanic/Latino adults and is associated with a considerable excess of
CVD
risk factors. At the highest
BMI
levels,
CVD
risk factors often emerge in the earliest decades of adulthood and they affect men more often than women.
Economic Relationship between Italy and Lebanon in the Fifties
Authors: Conte Giampaolo
Published: July 2014

Italy and Lebanon signed the first friendship agreement between an Arab and a Western country after the Second World War. Both countries profited from this agreement: Italy could use it as a model for future agreements with other Arab countries and Lebanon with other Western countries. The uniqueness of this agreement is the fair-trade which was unusual in international agreements signed between Western countries and Arab countries. As one of the defeated countries, it was very important for Italy to build a new relationship with the Mediterranean countries. Therefore the first step had to be a political agreement and then an economic and trade agreement. The United Kingdom and France did not want Italy to start a new relation with Lebanon, particularly France which was jealous of her ex-mandate. Nevertheless, Italy succeeded in setting a very good relationship with Lebanon along the Fifties.
Taxonomic Revision of the genus Mesomphalia Hope, 1839
(Insecta, Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae)
Authors: SIMÕES MARIANNA V. P. , MONNÉ MARCELA L.
Published: July 2014

A revision of the genus Mesomphalia Hope, 1839, is presented based on a detailed morphological study of all species, except M. ampliata Boheman, 1850 and M. albofasciculata Boheman, 1856. The genus and species are redescribed. One species is transferred to Stolas Billberg, 1820, as S. scrobiculata (Boheman, 1850) comb. nov.; one species is transferred to Cyrtonota Chevrolat, 1836, as C. pyramidata (Boheman, 1850) comb. nov.; M. sexmaculata Boheman, 1850 syn. nov. is a junior subjective synonym of M. turrita (Illiger, 1801); one new species M. spaethi Simões & Monné, sp. nov. is described. Following this revision, Mesomphalia now contains fourteen species. A key to the species, photographs and distribution maps are provided.
The advertisement call of Adelophryne maranguapensis (Anura, Eleutherodactylidae)
Authors: LIMA DANIEL CASSIANO , BORGES-NOJOSA DIVA MARIA , CECHIN SONIA ZANINI
Published: July 2014

We describe the advertisement call of A. maranguapensis an endangered species endemic to Serra de Maranguape, Ceará, northeastern Brazil (Cassiano-Lima et al., 2011). The monophyletic genus Adelophryne includes eight nominal species and a number of unnamed species of small frogs with direct development, which occur in Amazon, Atlantic Forest, and humid forested mountains of Northeast Brazil (Fouquet et al. 2012). Only the advertisement calls of A. adiastola, A. gutturosa, A. patamona, and A. mucronatus have been so far described (see MacCulloch et al., 2008; Lourenço-de-Moraes et al., 2012).
Apochrysinae (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae): New Larval Description and Subfamilial Comparisons
Authors: TAUBER CATHERINE A.
Published: July 2014

Although Apochrysinae is considered an important, ancient clade of Chrysopidae, its immature stages are very poorly known. Larvae are rarely seen, and descriptions are limited to the third instar of only one species in the genus Apochrysa. Herein, the larvae (all instars) of a second species, Apochrysa voeltzkowi (Weele), are described, and the features of the two Apochrysa species are compared with those of other chrysopids. The results provide support (one potential synapomorphy) for a phylogenetic relationship between Apochrysinae and Nothochrysinae and additional support for two synapomorphies previously proposed for Nothochrysinae. Diagnostic larval characteristics are proposed for the genus Apochrysa, and species-specific features are identified for the two known Apochrysa larvae.
The “lessons” of Vietnam for Canada: Complicity, irrelevance, earnestness, or realism?
Authors: Sokolsky Joel
Published: July 2014

This essay looks back on three classic texts depicting Canadian foreign policy during the Vietnam era in pursuit of lessons for policymakers in Ottawa today. It concludes that Canadians should not be so self-critical of their country’s inability to exercise influence on complex and difficult global problems. While Canada continues to be able to make a helpful contribution to world affairs, Canada’s international engagements should focus less on the often unrealistic desire to enhance the country’s image and standing abroad and at home and more on immediate tactical and operational impacts.
Treatment of Cyanotic Breath-Holding Spells With Oral Theophylline in a 10-Year-Old Boy
Authors: Garg Meenal , Goraya Jatinder S.
Published: July 2014

Cyanotic breath-holding spells are generally benign and resolve spontaneously by 4 to 5 years of age. Treatment with iron and other drugs has been employed in selected cases with very frequent and severe episodes. We describe a 10-year-old boy with recent-onset cyanotic breath-holding spells that were activity limiting. He was unable to participate in physical activities with his peers as any argument or emotional upset provoked these spells. Treatment with oral iron and piracetam was ineffective. However, treatment with oral theophylline produced dramatic amelioration of symptoms, and he was once again able to participate in play activities with his peers. We believe that general central nervous system stimulant and respirogenic effects of theophylline were instrumental in control of symptoms in our child.
Reconstruction of semi-free transient sound field under different reflection conditions using an extended interpolated time-domain equivalent source method
Authors: Pan Siwei , Jiang Weikang , Xiang Shang
Published: July 2014

Transient acoustic field can be rebuilt directly in the time-domain via the interpolated time-domain equivalent source method (ITDESM). However, this method requires that the reconstruction should be addressed in the free-field only, which can hardly be met in the engineering noise problems. To circumvent this difficulty, an extended ITDESM procedure is developed by extending the ITDESM from the free-field to the semi-free-field. In this approach, the time-domain equivalent sources are placed not only near the actual sound sources but also around their image sources with respect to the planar reflecting surface. The solving procedure of the equivalent source strengths is improved to decrease the computing load. The reflection conditions treated here can be arbitrary, i.e. both perfectly rigid and impedance-effected. Reconstruction results of the transient sound field radiated from three monopoles under different reflection conditions demonstrate the validity and applicability of the proposed method.
On the applicability of the Boussinesq influence function in modelling the frictionless elastic contact between a rectangular indenter with rounded edges and a half-plane
Authors: Strozzi A , Bertocchi E , Baldini A , Giacopini M
Published: July 2014

The applicability of the Boussinesq influence function in modelling the frictionless elastic contact between a rectangular indenter with rounded edges and a half-plane is numerically explored. The potential of the asymptotic matching method combined with classical fracture mechanics results is investigated. Manageable design formulae for evaluating the maximum equivalent stress are analytically derived with the aid of the asymptotic matching method.
Lipid-Colloid Dressing Shows Improved Reepithelialization, Pain Relief, and Corneal Barrier Function in Split-Thickness Skin-Graft Donor Wound Healing
Authors: Tanaka Katsuya , Akita Sadanori , Yoshimoto Hiroshi , Houbara Seiji , Hirano Akiyoshi
Published: July 2014

Donor-site wound healing was tested with a nonadherent petrolatum- and hydrocolloid-impregnated polyester, a lipid-colloid dressing, and a nonadherent polyester dressing, supplemented with petrolatum manually by a physician onsite. Ten patients, 1 woman and 9 men (22 to 79 years old; average 58.4 ± 17.54 years), were enrolled in this prospective comparison study. The split-thickness skin graft was 14.5 ± 7.49 cm long × 8.2 ± 4.07 cm wide (5.5-27 cm long and 4.0-14.0 wide) and 14/1000 inches (0.356 mm) deep. The degree of reepithelialization in lipid-colloid dressing was significantly better than that in polyester mesh dressing, with 1.7 ± 1.00 and 2.8 ± 0.83 for the lipid-colloid dressing and polyester mesh dressing, respectively ( P < .05), and degree of pain was significantly lower in lipid-colloid dressing than that in polyester dressing, 1.7 ± 1.11 and 2.9 ± 1.12 for the lipid-colloid dressing and polyester mesh dressing, respectively ( P < .01). In moisture meter analyses, the values of effective contact coefficient and corneal thickness in lipid-colloid at wound healing was significantly smaller than those in polyester mesh (effective contact coefficient: 11.7 ± 1.87% and 15.6 ± 3.09% for lipid-colloid and polyester mesh, respectively, P < .05; corneal thickness: 31.1 ± 6.65 µm and 40.7 ± 8.69 µm for lipid-colloid and polyester mesh, respectively, P < .05). No significant difference was observed at 1 month after healing. The nonadherent lipid-colloid polyester dressing has superior wound healing and pain relief and demonstrates better corneal barrier function delineated by effective contact coefficient and corneal thickness at healing in split-thickness donors.
An ethyl acetate fraction derived from Houttuynia cordata extract inhibits the production of inflammatory markers by suppressing NF-кB and MAPK activation in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages
Authors: Chun Jin Mi , Nho Kyoung Jin , Kim Hyo Seon , Lee A Yeong , Moon Byeong Cheol , Kim Ho Kyoung
Published: July 2014

Background

Houttuynia cordata Thunb. (Saururaceae) has been used in traditional medicine for treatment of inflammatory diseases. This study evaluated the anti-inflammatory effects of an ethyl acetate fraction derived from a Houttuynia cordata extract (HCE-EA) on the production of inflammatory mediators and the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages.

Methods

To measure the effects of HCE-EA on pro-inflammatory cytokine and inflammatory mediator’s expression in RAW 264.7 cells, we used the following methods: cell viability assay, Griess reagent assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analysis.

Results

HCE-EA downregulated nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL-6) production in the cells, as well as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression. Furthermore, HCE-EA suppressed nuclear translocation of the NF-κB p65 subunit, which correlated with an inhibitory effect on IκBα (nuclear factor of kappa light polypeptide gene enhancer in B-cells inhibitor, alpha) phosphorylation. HCE-EA also attenuated the activation of MAPKs (p38 and JNK).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the anti-inflammatory properties of HCE-EA may stem from the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators via suppression of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.
The Hippo pathway in disease and therapy: cancer and beyond
Authors: Gomez Marta , Gomez Valenti , Hergovich Alexander
Published: July 2014

The Hippo tumour suppressor pathway co‐ordinates cell proliferation, cell death and cell differentiation to regulate tissue growth control. In mammals, a conserved core Hippo signalling module receives signal inputs on different levels to ensure the proper regulation of YAP/TAZ activities as transcriptional co‐activators. While the core module members MST1/2, Salvador, LATS1/2 and MOB1 have been attributed tumour suppressive functions, YAP/TAZ have been mainly described to have oncogenic roles, although some reports provided evidence supporting growth suppressive roles of YAP/TAZ in certain cancer settings. Intriguingly, mammalian Hippo signalling is also implicated in non‐cancer diseases and plays a role in tissue regeneration following injury. Cumulatively, these findings indicate that the pharmacological inhibition or activation of the Hippo pathway could be desirable depending on the disease context. In this review, we first summarise the functions of the mammalian Hippo pathway in tumour formation, and then discuss non‐cancer diseases involving Hippo signalling core components with a specific focus on our current understanding of the non‐cancer roles of MST1/2 and YAP/TAZ. In addition, the pros and cons of possible pharmacological interventions with Hippo signalling will be reviewed, with particular emphasis on anti‐cancer drug development and regenerative medicine.
Erratum to: Cross-country differences in the association between diabetes and disability
Authors: Assari Shervin , Lankarani Reza Moghani , Lankarani Maryam Moghani
Published: July 2014

The acknowledgment section of a recent manuscript published by Assari et al., [1] should be corrected as below: Publication of this manuscript was possible with the Cornely Fellowship fund awarded by the Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan to the first author, Shervin Assari.
A Demand Estimation Procedure for Retail Assortment Optimization with Results from Implementations
Authors: Fisher Marshall , Vaidyanathan Ramnath
Published: July 2014

We consider the problem of choosing, from a set of N potential stock-keeping units (SKUs) in a retail category, K SKUs to be carried at each store to maximize revenue or profit. Assortments can vary by store, subject to a maximum number of different assortments. We view a SKU as a set of attribute levels and also model possible substitutions when a customer's first choice is not in the assortment. We apply maximum likelihood estimation to sales history of the SKUs currently carried by the retailer to estimate the demand for attribute levels and substitution probabilities, and from this, the demand for any potential SKU, including those not currently carried by the retailer. We specify several alternative heuristics for choosing SKUs to be carried in an assortment. We apply this approach to optimize assortments for three real examples: snack cakes, tires, and automotive appearance chemicals. A portion of our recommendations for tires and appearance chemicals were implemented and produced sales increases of 5.8% and 3.6%, respectively, which are significant improvements relative to typical retailer annual comparable store revenue increases. We also forecast sales shares of 1, 11, and 25 new SKUs for the snack cake, tire, and automotive appearance chemical applications, respectively, with mean absolute percentage errors (MAPEs) of 16.2%, 19.1%, and 28.7%, which compares favorably to the 30.7% MAPE for chain sales of two new SKUs reported by Fader and Hardie (1996).

This paper was accepted by Yossi Aviv, operations management.
Addressing tooth decay in children and young people
Authors: Voogd Caroline
Published: July 2014

Tooth decay is an important public health issue. This article looks at interventions which school nurses can carry out to reduce the incidence of tooth decay in children and young people.
Rubella: An overview of the symptoms and complications
Authors: Watkins Jean
Published: July 2014

Although rubella is usually a mild condition, which resolves spontaneously, it can lead to serious complications in pregnant women, including the risk of congenital rubella syndrome. This article looks at the symptoms, complications and prevention of rubella.
What factors influence the use of the Whooley questions by health visitors?
Authors: Beauchamp Hilda
Published: July 2014

Guidelines for perinatal mental health recommend the use of the Whooley questions to assist in identification of perinatal depression. Little is known about how acceptable they are to practitioners or what factors might influence their use in health visiting practice. This quantitative study aimed to explore what factors influence the implementation of the Whooley questions by health visitors. An online survey was sent to a convenience sample of health visitors in one NHS Trust in the East of England, resulting in a 58.2% response rate. Findings suggested that training around the use of the Whooley questions was varied and considered by some to be inadequate. Although there was some agreement that the questions were clear and easy to use, did not require extra time and were considered to be acceptable to women, there was a lack of confidence in the ability of the questions to detect perinatal depression. A wide variation in practice around administering the questions was highlighted, which has significant ethical and research implications. The need for further training and updates to standardise practice among health visitors and improve the quality of clinical practice and audit is recommended.
A Qualitative Analysis of Approaches To Contraceptive Counseling
Authors: Dehlendorf Christine , Kimport Katrina , Levy Kira , Steinauer Jody
Published: July 2014

CONTEXT

Underuse and inconsistent use of contraceptives contribute to the continued high rate of unintended pregnancy in the United States. High‐quality interaction between patient and provider about contraception is associated with improved contraceptive use, yet little is known about how providers support patients in the decision‐making process.

METHODS

A random sample of 50 family planning visits by patients in the San Francisco Bay Area was selected from a larger sample of 342 audio‐recorded visits to six clinics between 2009 and 2012. In qualitative analysis guided by grounded theory techniques, transcripts were assessed to determine counseling approaches and patterns in the use of these approaches.

RESULTS

Providers employed three counseling approaches: foreclosed (in 48% of visits), characterized by discussion of few contraceptive methods and method selection by the patient with no involvement from the provider; informed choice (30%), characterized by detailed description of multiple methods, but little or no interaction between the patient and the provider; and shared decision making (22%), characterized by the provider's interactive and responsive participation with the patient in method selection. Use of these approaches varied by patient's age: Women 25 or younger experienced the foreclosed approach more often than older women, and patients older than 35 were far more likely than their younger counterparts to experience the shared decision‐making approach.

CONCLUSIONS

Most visits did not include interactive engagement between the patient and the provider. Contraceptive counseling interventions should encourage providers to responsively engage with patients of all ages to better meet their contraceptive needs.
Cause Marketing Effectiveness and the Moderating Role of Price Discounts
Authors: Andrews Michelle , Luo Xueming , Fang Zheng , Aspara Jaakko
Published: July 2014

Can cause marketing (CM) be effective? If so, do price discounts moderate CM effectiveness? Despite the prevalence of linking product sales with donations to charity, field evidence of CM effectiveness is lacking. This is of particular concern for managers who wonder whether the findings of laboratory experiments extend to actual consumer purchases. Using large-scale randomized field experiments with more than 17,000 consumers, this research documents that CM can significantly increase consumer purchases. Notably, the answer to the second question is more complicated. Under the moderating role of price discounts, the impact of CM on sales purchases may follow an inverted U-shaped relationship—that is, strongest when price discounts are moderate rather than deep or absent. Follow-up lab experiments reveal that consumers' warm-glow good feelings from CM represent the underlying process. These findings provide novel insights into the boundary conditions and mechanisms of the sales impact of CM for researchers and managers alike.
Voltage Balancing Scheme in MMC – A New Approach
Authors: Madichetty Sreedhar , Dasgupta Abhijit , Mishra Sambeet
Published: July 2014

This article proposes an online voltage balancing scheme using a new comparative reference wave modulation technique applied to modified modular multilevel converter (MMMC). Recent applications of modular multilevel converter (MMC) in high-voltage DC systems experience many problems with unbalancing of upper and lower arms, due to which circulating currents are rotating in the legs of MMC. These circulating currents pass through the arm inductors and create power loss across the inductor which consequently affects the efficiency of system. In order to overcome the unbalancing and to reduce the power losses, it proposes a new topology for existing MMC called as MMMC. Its main idea is to the balance the system voltage according to the difference between upper and lower arm currents. The upper and lower arm capacitors voltages can be well balanced by proposed technique. Compared to conventional PWM methods, this method can be realized easily. Particularly, this method has not used any kind of sorting technique, which makes it suitable for MMC with a large number of sub-modules. With experiments, the proposed method has been verified successfully.
Percentile and Percentile-t Bootstrap Confidence Intervals: A Practical Comparison
Authors: Elias Christopher J.
Published: July 2014

This paper employs a Monte Carlo study to compare the performance of equal-tailed bootstrap percentile-t, symmetric bootstrap percentile-t, bootstrap percentile, and standard asymptotic confidence intervals in two distinct heteroscedastic regression models. Bootstrap confidence intervals are constructed with both the XY and wild bootstrap algorithm. Theory implies that the percentile-t methods will outperform the other methods, where performance is based on the convergence rate of empirical coverage to the nominal level. Results are consistent across models, in that in the case of the XY bootstrap algorithm the symmetric percentile-t method outperforms the other methods, but in the case of the wild bootstrap algorithm the two percentile-t methods perform similarly and outperform the other methods. The implication is that practitioners that employ the XY algorithm should utilize the symmetric percentile-t interval, while those who opt for the wild algorithm should use either of the percentile-t methods.
Genome-Wide Regression and Prediction with the BGLR Statistical Package
Authors: Pérez Paulino , de los Campos Gustavo
Published: July 2014

Many modern genomic data analyses require implementing regressions where the number of parameters (p, e.g., the number of marker effects) exceeds sample size (n). Implementing these large-p-with-small-n regressions poses several statistical and computational challenges, some of which can be confronted using Bayesian methods. This approach allows integrating various parametric and nonparametric shrinkage and variable selection procedures in a unified and consistent manner. The BGLR R-package implements a large collection of Bayesian regression models, including parametric variable selection and shrinkage methods and semiparametric procedures (Bayesian reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces regressions, RKHS). The software was originally developed for genomic applications; however, the methods implemented are useful for many nongenomic applications as well. The response can be continuous (censored or not) or categorical (either binary or ordinal). The algorithm is based on a Gibbs sampler with scalar updates and the implementation takes advantage of efficient compiled C and Fortran routines. In this article we describe the methods implemented in BGLR, present examples of the use of the package, and discuss practical issues emerging in real-data analysis.
Morphometric differences of Microgramma squamulosa (Kaulf.) de la Sota (Polypodiaceae) leaves in environments with distinct atmospheric air quality
Authors: ROCHA LEDYANE D. , COSTA GUSTAVO M. DA , GEHLEN GÜNTHER , DROSTE ANNETTE , SCHMITT JAIRO L.
Published: July 2014

Plants growing in environments with different atmospheric conditions may present changes in the morphometric parameters of their leaves. Microgramma squamulosa (Kaulf.) de la Sota is a neotropical epiphytic fern found in impacted environments. The aims of this study were to quantitatively compare structural characteristics of leaves in areas with different air quality conditions, and to identify morphometric parameters that are potential indicators of the effects of pollution on these plants. Fertile and sterile leaves growing on isolated trees were collected from an urban (Estância Velha) and a rural (Novo Hamburgo) environment, in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. For each leaf type, macroscopic and microscopic analyses were performed on 192 samples collected in each environment. The sterile and fertile leaves showed significantly greater thickness of the midrib and greater vascular bundle and leaf blade areas in the rural environment, which is characterized by less air pollution. The thickness of the hypodermis and the stomatal density of the fertile leaves were greater in the urban area, which is characterized by more air pollution. Based on the fact that significant changes were found in the parameters of both types of leaves, which could possibly be related to air pollutants, M. squamulosa may be a potential bioindicator.
Hemangioendotelioma hepático multifocal e metastático: relato de caso e revisão da literatura
Authors: Torres Lucas Rios , Timbó Luciana Sátiro , Ribeiro Cristiane Maria de Freitas , Galvão Filho Mario Melo , Verrastro Carlos Gustavo Yuji , D'Ippolito Giuseppe
Published: July 2014

O hemangioendotelioma epitelioide é uma neoplasia rara de origem vascular, cujo acometimento de órgãos como o pulmão, o baço, o osso, a mama e o fígado já foi relatado. O quadro clínico e o prognóstico deste tumor são bastante variáveis. A partir de um relato de caso, procuramos contribuir com os dados existentes na literatura, revisando características clínicas e radiológicas que podem ser úteis para inseri-lo no diagnóstico diferencial das lesões hepáticas.
Lesões expansivas intraventriculares à ressonância magnética: ensaio iconográfico - parte 1
Authors: Castro Felipe Damásio de , Reis Fabiano , Guerra José Guilherme Giocondo
Published: July 2014

Ilustramos este ensaio iconográfico com imagens de ressonância magnética obtidas em nosso serviço nos últimos 15 anos e discutimos as principais características de imagem de lesões intraventriculares de etiologia tumoral (ependimoma, astrocitoma pilocítico, neurocitoma central, ganglioglioma, papiloma do plexo coroide, tumores neuroectodérmicos primitivos, meningioma, tumor epidermoide). Estas lesões representam um subgrupo de lesões intracranianas com características próprias e alguns dos padrões de imagem que podem facilitar o diagnóstico diferencial.
Síndrome de Parry-Romberg: achados nas sequências avançadas de ressonância magnética - relato de caso
Authors: Paula Rafael Alfenas de , Ribeiro Bruno Niemeyer de Freitas , Bahia Paulo Roberto Valle , Ribeiro Renato Niemeyer de Freitas , Carvalho Laís Balbi de
Published: July 2014

Síndrome de Parry-Romberg é uma doença rara caracterizada por atrofia hemifacial progressiva associada a outras alterações sistêmicas, dentre elas, neurológicas. Atualmente, são poucos os trabalhos que exploraram sequências avançadas em ressonância magnética nesta enfermidade. Neste artigo, relatamos o caso de um paciente com 45 anos e descrevemos os achados de ressonância magnética estrutural e em sequências avançadas, correlacionando com dados fisiopatológicos.
Avaliação da qualidade dos dados do Sistema de Informações sobre Nascidos Vivos e do Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade no período neonatal, Espírito Santo, Brasil, de 2007 a 2009
Authors: Silva Laura Pedroza da , Moreira Claudia Maria Marques , Amorim Maria Helena Costa , Castro Denise Silveira de , Zandonade Eliana
Published: July 2014

Os sistemas de informação em saúde possibilitam conhecer problemas dessa área e muitas vezes representam a única fonte de informação, tornando-se fundamental conhecer sua qualidade. O objetivo foi avaliar a qualidade dos dados sobre nascimentos e óbitos no período neonatal no Sistema de Informações sobre Nascidos Vivos (SINASC) e no Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade (SIM) no estado do Espírito Santo, no período de 2007 a 2009. Metodologia descritiva com dados secundários obtidos no endereço eletrônico do Departamento de Informática do Sistema Único de Saúde, no qual foram analisadas as seguintes dimensões da qualidade das informações: acessibilidade, oportunidade e completude. Resultados apontam que as informações são acessíveis e oportunas, com defasagem de três anos em relação ao início do estudo. A completude das variáveis analisados no SINASC foram, na sua maio ria, classificadas como excelente. O SIM exibiu elevado percentual de dados faltantes no número da Declaração de Nascido Vivo, escolaridade e idade da mãe e história reprodutiva. Conclui-se que o SINASC é uma excelente fonte de informação sobre nascimentos, contudo o SIM aponta para a indiscutível necessidade de melhorias na completude de suas informações.
Mestrado Profissional em Saúde Pública: do marco legal à experiência em uma instituição de pesquisa e ensino
Authors: Santos Gideon Borges dos , Hortale Virginia Alonso
Published: July 2014

Trata-se de um estudo sobre os discursos que vigoraram ao longo do tempo na legislação brasileira sobre Mestrado Profissional (MP), e como uma instituição de pesquisa e ensino na área da Saúde Pública se apropriou deles na construção de suas propostas de cursos. Técnicas de análise de discurso foram utilizadas nos documentos legais e cotejadas com dezesseis propostas de cursos de MP da instituição-caso. Os resultados mostram que em relação à legislação, a análise da linha histórica permite dizer que as indefinições iniciais vêm progressivamente dando lugar ao entendimento de que a identidade dessa modalidade de formação pressupõe práticas pedagógicas que promovam o estreitamento das relações entre a academia e o mundo do trabalho. E, em relação às propostas de cursos de MP da instituição-caso, elas ainda operam com esquemas de formação tradicionalmente consolidados e tendem a conformar suas propostas à semelhança daquelas da modalidade acadêmica. Assumiu-se no presente estudo que o conjunto das propostas expressariam suficientemente as intencionalidades e, sobretudo, a visão das instituições formadoras na área de saúde pública sobre essa modalidade stricto sensu e cuja identidade ainda parece pouco determinada
Estudo da carga de doença das condições orais em Minas Gerais, Brasil, 2004-2006
Authors: Mota Jurema Corrêa da , Valente Joaquim Gonçalves , Schramm Joyce Mendes de Andrade , Leite Iuri da Costa
Published: July 2014

Os agravos orais são um problema de saúde pública devido à sua prevalência em praticamente todos os grupos etários. Estudo da Carga Global de Doença para cárie dentária, edentulismo e doença periodontal. Utilizou-se o DALY, que mede simultaneamente o impacto da mortalidade e dos problemas de saúde que afetam a qualidade de vida. A Carga de Doença para condições orais foi analisada em números absolutos e taxas/1.000 habitantes. O número de YLD para cárie foi de 4.489. Estimou-se 33.888 YLD para edentulismo, com taxa de 2,2/1.000 nas mulheres. Na doença periodontal estimou-se 3.217 YLD, resultando em uma taxa de 0,2/1.000 para ambos os sexos. O edentulismo contribuiu mais para a carga de doença orais, sendo mais frequente nas mulheres. Maiores taxas de edentulismo e doença periodontal foram de 45-69 anos, enquanto cárie de 15-49 anos. Os estudos de Carga Global de Doença representam um importante aspecto do diagnóstico de saúde, integrando desfechos fatais e não fatais. Além disso, disponibiliza informações de grande relevância na formulação de políticas de prevenção e tratamento.