bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Egocentric social network analysis of pathological gambling
Authors: Meisel Matthew K. , Clifton Allan D. , MacKillop James , Miller Joshua D. , Campbell W. Keith , Goodie Adam S.
Published: October 2012

Aims

To apply social network analysis (SNA) to investigate whether frequency and severity of gambling problems were associated with different network characteristics among friends, family and co‐workers is an innovative way to look at relationships among individuals; the current study was the first, to our knowledge, to apply SNA to gambling behaviors.

Design

Egocentric social network analysis was used to characterize formally the relationships between social network characteristics and gambling pathology.

Setting

Laboratory‐based questionnaire and interview administration.

Participants

Forty frequent gamblers (22 non‐pathological gamblers, 18 pathological gamblers) were recruited from the community.

Measurements and Findings

The SNA revealed significant social network compositional differences between the two groups: pathological gamblers (PGs) had more gamblers, smokers and drinkers in their social networks than did non‐pathological gamblers (NPGs). PGs had more individuals in their network with whom they personally gambled, smoked and drank than those with who were NPG. Network ties were closer to individuals in their networks who gambled, smoked and drank more frequently. Associations between gambling severity and structural network characteristics were not significant.

Conclusions

Pathological gambling is associated with compositional but not structural differences in social networks. Pathological gamblers differ from non‐pathological gamblers in the number of gamblers, smokers and drinkers in their social networks. Homophily within the networks also indicates that gamblers tend to be closer with other gamblers. This homophily may serve to reinforce addictive behaviors, and may suggest avenues for future study or intervention.
Forced Sex and HIV Risk in Violent Relationships
Authors: Campbell Jacquelyn C. , Lucea Marguerite B. , Stockman Jamila K. , Draughon Jessica E.
Published: October 2012

Problem

The intersecting epidemics of gender‐based violence, specifically forced sex, and HIV continue to affect women worldwide. Both in the United States and worldwide, women of African descent are disproportionately affected.

Method of study

The current literature was reviewed for inclusion based on its relevance to the intersection of forced sex and HIV risk behaviors.

Results

This brief review synthesizes research on the linkages between forced sex and behavioral risk factors for HIV infection. We explore forced sex from the perspective of the perpetrator being a current or former intimate partner, as well as the first sexual intercourse experience occurring through the use of physical force (i.e., forced sexual initiation). The review also emphasizes the importance of expanding current research to understand the physiological mechanisms linking forced sex to HIV risk.

Conclusion

The factors linking intimate partner forced sex and forced sexual initiation with HIV/AIDS are varied and complex. The review concludes with recommendations for future research in this area and implications this research could have on preventing violence and mitigating the health consequences.
The Expressions of Co‐Stimulatory Molecules are Altered on Putative Antigen‐Presenting Cells in Cord Blood
Authors: Darmochwal‐Kolarz Dorota , Serafin Andrzej , Tabarkiewicz Jacek , Kolarz Bogdan , Rolinski Jacek , Oleszczuk Jan
Published: October 2012

Problem

The aim of our study was to estimate the expressions of both B7‐H1 and B7‐H4 as well as CD200 and CD200R co‐stimulatory molecules on immature myeloid and lymphoid dendritic cells, B CD19+ lymphocytes and monocytes in umbilical cord blood of healthy neonates and in peripheral blood of healthy adults.

Method of study

Thirty‐nine healthy full‐term neonates from physiological single pregnancies and 27 healthy adults were included in the study. The expressions of B7‐H1, B7‐H4, CD200, CD200R antigens were estimated using flow cytometry. Statistical analysis was performed using a non‐parametric Mann–Whitney U‐test and parametric Wilcoxon's test.

Results

The expressions of B7‐H1 and B7‐H4 molecules on immature BDCA‐1+ myeloid dendritic cells were significantly lower in umbilical cord blood of healthy neonates when compared with those cells in peripheral blood of healthy adults (P < 0.0001). Furthermore, the suppression of B7‐H4 molecule on BDCA‐2+ lymphoid dendritic cells was observed in cord blood of healthy neonates when compared with peripheral blood of healthy adults (P < 0.02). The expressions of CD200 antigen on BDCA‐1+ cells, CD200R antigen on BDCA‐2+ cells and CD200R antigen on B CD19+ cells were significantly lower in cord blood of healthy neonates. On the other hand, the expressions of CD200 and CD200R as well as B7‐H4 co‐stimulatory molecules on CD14+ cells were significantly higher in cord blood when compared with peripheral blood.

Conclusion

The increased percentages of CD14+ monocytes with the expressions of CD200 and CD200R as well as B7‐H4 co‐stimulatory molecules can suggest the increased immunomodulatory properties of neonatal monocytes in cord blood.
Short‐term venom immunotherapy induces desensitization of FcεRI‐mediated basophil response
Authors: Čelesnik N. , Vesel T. , Rijavec M. , Šilar M. , Eržen R. , Košnik M. , Kloft Žitnik S. E. , Avčin T. , Korošec P.
Published: October 2012

Background

The precise immunological mechanisms for the early clinical protection of venom immunotherapy (VIT) have not yet been explained. Our aim was to evaluate whether high‐affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI) and the related basophil function have a role in the induction of short‐term VIT protection.

Methods

We included 60 adults and 48 children. Basophil threshold sensitivity (CD‐sens) to anti‐FcεRI stimulation, and FcεRI gene and cell‐surface expression were assessed at the beginning and just before the first maintenance dose (MD) of 100 μg of ultra‐rush VIT (day 5) and at the beginning, during buildup, and just before the first MD of 70 μg and of 100 μg of semi‐rush VIT (weeks 1–2 and 5).

Results

We demonstrated a significant reduction in CD‐sens to anti‐FcεRI stimulation before the first MD in both ultra‐rush and semi‐rush VIT in all included subjects. FcεRI gene and/or cell‐surface expression was decreased in 34–100% of subjects, with different dynamics between VIT protocols.

Conclusion

We found a marked desensitization of FcεRI‐activated basophils after short‐term VIT. This suppression, which could be highly relevant for the development of early protective mechanisms, might be also related to the changes at the level of FcεRI expression.
An IgE epitope of Bet v 1 and fagales PR10 proteins as defined by a human monoclonal IgE
Authors: Hecker J. , Diethers A. , Schulz D. , Sabri A. , Plum M. , Michel Y. , Mempel M. , Ollert M. , Jakob T. , Blank S. , Braren I. , Spillner E.
Published: October 2012

Background

Analyses of the molecular basis underlying allergenicity and allergen cross‐reactivity, as well as improvement of allergy diagnostics and therapeutics, are hampered by the lack of human monoclonal IgE antibodies and knowledge about their epitopes. Here, we addressed the consecutive generation and epitope delineation of a human monoclonal IgE against the prototypic allergen Bet v 1.

Methods

Phage‐display scFv hybrid libraries of allergic donor‐derived VH epsilon and synthetic VL were established from 107 mononuclear cells. An obtained scFv was converted into human immunoglobulin formats including IgE. Using variants of Bet v 1, the epitope of the antibody was mapped and extrapolated to other PR10 proteins.

Results

The obtained antibodies exhibited pronounced reactivity with Bet v 1, but were not reactive with the homologous PR10 protein Mal d 1. The epitope as defined by the IgE paratope and a set of chimeric Bet v 1 fusion proteins and fragments could be assigned to a C‐terminal helix‐structured motif comprised by amino acid residues 132–154, including the critical residue E149. Grafting this motif re‐established the reactivity of the per se nonreactive Mal d 1 framework. Cross‐reactivities predicted by primary structure analyses of different isoforms and PR10 proteins were verified by allergen chip–based analyses.

Conclusions

The obtained results demonstrate that hybrid IgE repertoires represent a source for human antibodies with genuine paratopes. The IgE‐derived information about the IgE epitope nature of Bet v 1 and homologues allows for detailed insights into molecular aspects of allergenicity and cross‐reactivity within the PR10 protein family.
Delayed allergic skin reactions due to intralesional meglumine antimoniate therapy for cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Córdoba S. , Gandolfo Cano M. , Aguado M. , Huerta‐Brogera M. , Romero A. , Martínez‐Morán C. , Borbujo J.
Published: October 2012

Background

The pentavalent antimonials are considered the first‐choice drugs for treatment of leishmaniasis. Intralesional therapy is used to minimize the systemic effects of the drug.

Methods

Seventy patients were treated with weekly intralesional infiltrations of Glucantime® (meglumine antimoniate) for cutaneous leishmaniasis. Nine of them had infiltrated itchy erythematous and vesiculous plaques at the injection sites. Cutaneous tests were undertaken in eight patients.

Results

Prick tests were negative and seven of the eight patients showed positive intradermal tests with Glucantime® dilutions reading at D2 and D4. Only one patient had positive patch test to Glucantime a.i. Local reactions at the site of injection have been briefly mentioned in some reported series of leishmaniasis treated with intralesional or intramuscular meglumine antimoniate but the mechanism has never been explained before.

Conclusions

We report the first series of patients with local reactions at the injection sites of meglumine antimoniate in whom type IV hypersensitivity could be involved.
Mothers are not fathers: differences between parents in the reduction of stress levels after a parental intervention in a NICU
Authors: Matricardi S , Agostino R , Fedeli C , Montirosso R
Published: October 2012

Aims

The study examined the effects of a parental intervention to reduce parents’ stress levels during the hospitalization of their very preterm infants in a NICU, taking into account possible differences between mothers and fathers.

Methods

Parents of infants born ≤32 weeks gestational age (GA) were randomly assigned to a standard support group (N = 21) or intervention group (N = 21). The intervention was based both on a joint observation method and infant massage provided by both parents. Parents’ stress was assessed by the Parental Stressor Scale: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, after the first week of admission and at the infant's discharge.

Results

At discharge, intervention group parents showed significantly lower levels of stress related to infants’ appearance/behaviour and to parental role alteration (PRA) than those of the standard support group (p = 0.000). Overall, mothers reported more stress compared with fathers (p ≤ 0.05). The intervention was effective in reducing the stress‐role alteration in mothers (p < 0.05), but not in fathers.

Conclusions

Mothers reported more stress compared with fathers, above all for PRA. A parental intervention was effective in reducing stress‐role alteration in mothers, but not fathers. Parental interventions should take into account that help for fathers could be different from help for mothers.
Rifaximin treatment for the irritable bowel syndrome with a positive lactulose hydrogen breath test improves symptoms for at least 3 months
Authors: Meyrat P. , Safroneeva E. , Schoepfer A. M.
Published: October 2012

Background

While rifaximin was able to improve symptoms in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in phase III trials, these results are yet to be repeated in phase IV studies.

Aim

To evaluate the treatment response to rifaximin in IBS patients in a phase IV trial.

Methods

IBS patients underwent lactulose hydrogen breath testing (LHBT). LHBT‐positive patients were treated with rifaximin for 14 days. Prior to treatment as well as at week 4 and 14 following the start of rifaximin treatment, patients completed a questionnaire assessing symptom severity on a Likert scale from 0 to 10.

Results

One hundred and six of 150 IBS patients (71%) were LHBT‐positive and treated with rifaximin. As assessed at week 4 following commencement of the therapy, rifaximin provided significant improvement of the following IBS‐associated symptoms: bloating (5.5±2.6 before the start of the treatment vs. 3.6±2.7 at week 4, P<0.001), flatulence (5.0±2.7 vs. 4.0±2.7, P=0.015), diarrhoea (2.9±2.4 vs. 2.0±2.4, P=0.005) and abdominal pain (4.8±2.7 vs. 3.3±2.5, P<0.001). Overall well‐being also significantly improved (3.9 ± 2.4 vs. 2.7 ± 2.3, P < 0.001). Similar improvements in IBS symptoms were obtained at week 14. Eighty‐six per cent of patients undergoing repetitive LHBT (55/64) tested negative at week 4.

Conclusions

We found a high percentage of LHBT‐positive IBS patients. IBS‐associated symptoms (bloating, flatulence, diarrhoea, pain) were improved for a period of 3 months following 2 weeks of treatment with rifaximin. We conclude that rifaximin treatment alleviates symptoms in LHBT‐positive IBS patients.
Assessment of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease using serum total cell death and apoptosis markers
Authors: Shen J. , Chan H. L.‐Y. , Wong G. L.‐H. , Chan A. W.‐H. , Choi P. C.‐L. , Chan H.‐Y. , Chim A. M.‐L. , Yeung D. K.‐W. , Yu J. , Chu W. C.‐W. , Wong V. W.‐S.
Published: October 2012

Background

The diagnosis of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fibrosis relies on liver biopsy. Non‐invasive assessments are urgently needed.

Aim

To evaluate cell apoptotic marker cytokeratin‐18 M30 and total cell death markers cytokeratin‐18 M65/M65ED for the assessment and monitoring of NAFLD.

Methods

A cohort of 147 patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD and 73 controls were enroled, including 51 patients who received paired liver biopsies 36 months apart. Biomarkers were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

M30, M65 and M65ED increased in a stepwise fashion in control subjects, patients with non‐NASH, NAFLD and NASH (all P < 0.001). All biomarkers had similarly high accuracy over 0.9 in predicting NAFLD and moderate accuracy around 0.7 in predicting NASH. Among patients with paired liver biopsies, changes in M30, M65 and M65ED positively correlated with disease progression (rho = 0.42, 0.32 and 0.39; P = 0.002, 0.023 and 0.005 respectively), and only changes in M65 and M65ED correlated with fibrosis progression (rho = 0.29, 0.34; P = 0.038, 0.015 respectively). Both M30 and M65 had area under receiver‐operating characteristics curve above 0.8 in predicting disease progression. At cut‐off of 236 U/L, changes of M65ED had 88% NPV and 59% PPV to exclude and predict fibrosis progression.

Conclusions

Cytokeratin‐18 M30 and M65/M65ED have moderate accuracy in detecting non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis. Changes in the biomarkers also correlate with histological progression. However, development of new biomarkers is still required to improve the diagnostic accuracy.
Vitalistic thinking in adults
Authors: Wilson Stuart
Published: October 2012

Vitalistic thinking has traditionally been associated with reasoning about biological phenomena. The current research aimed to investigate a broader range of vitalistic thinking than previously studied. Esoteric notions of ‘energy’ are frequently used by individuals when making causal attributions for strange occurrences, and previous literature has linked such thinking with paranormal, magical, and superstitious beliefs. Two experiments are described that aim to investigate whether adults are vitalistic when asked to make causal judgments, and whether this can be predicted by thinking styles and prior paranormal belief. Experiment 1 asked participants to rate three causal options (one of which was vitalistic) for six vignettes. Scores on one dimension of paranormal belief (New Age Philosophy) and analytical thinking significantly predicted vitalism, but scores on intuitive thinking and Traditional Paranormal Beliefs did not. Experiment 2 extended the findings by asking participants to generate their own causal responses. Again, paranormal belief was found to be the best predictor of vitalism, but this time Traditional Paranormal Beliefs were associated with vitalistic responses whilst both intuitive and analytical thinking were unable to significantly predict classification. Results challenge previous findings, suggesting that vitalistic thinking may operate differently when applied to everyday causal reasoning.
IDH1 Mutations in Oligodendroglial Tumors: Comparative Analysis of Direct Sequencing, Pyrosequencing, Immunohistochemistry, Nested PCR and PNA‐Mediated Clamping PCR
Authors: Lee Dakeun , Suh Yeon‐Lim , Kang So Young , Park Tae‐In , Jeong Ji Yun , Kim Se‐Hoon
Published: October 2012

Mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) are found in a high proportion of glial tumors and have a significant prognostic impact. Although direct sequencing has been considered to be the gold‐standard method to detect this mutation, the sensitivity of this technique has been questioned especially because specimens from glial tumors may contain large numbers of non‐tumor cells. We screened 141 cases of oligodendroglial tumors for IDH1 mutations using peptide nucleic acid (PNA)‐mediated clamping polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and compared the results with the results of direct sequencing, pyrosequencing, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Nested PCR was only performed in cases having mutant IDH1 only discovered by clamping PCR. Using dilution experiments mixing IDH1 wild‐type and mutant DNA samples, clamping PCR detected mutations in samples with a 1% tumor DNA composition. Using PNA clamping PCR, we detected 138 of 141 (97.9%) cases with mutant IDH1 in our series, which is significantly higher (P = 0.016; PNA clamping vs. direct sequencing) than those of direct sequencing (74.5%), pyrosequencing (75.2%) and IHC (75.9%). From our results, almost all oligodendroglial tumors have IDH1 mutations, and this suggests that IDH1 mutation is an early and common event especially in the development of oligodendroglial tumors.
Insomnia in adolescents: prevalence, help‐seeking behaviors, and types of interventions
Authors: Chung Ka‐Fai , Kan Katherine Ka‐Ki , Yeung Wing‐Fai
Published: October 2012

Background

Little is known about the DSM‐IV diagnosis of insomnia among adolescents. Their help‐seeking behaviors and self‐help strategies for insomnia remain largely unclear.

Method

A cross‐sectional, interview‐based study of 290 Chinese adolescents.

Results

The prevalence of insomnia symptoms was 40%, among which 9.3% had DSM‐IV insomnia. Primary insomnia accounted for 7.9%, whereas insomnia associated with psychiatric disorders constituted 1.4%. Adolescents with DSM‐IV insomnia had more severe and frequent insomnia, higher GHQ scores, and were more likely to have a history of sleep paralysis than those with insomnia symptoms alone. About 22% of adolescents with insomnia symptoms sought help and 32% attempted various strategies to improve sleep.

Conclusions

Many adolescents were troubled by insomnia, but they seldom sought help from healthcare professionals or received proper treatments.
The oncological outcome after right hemicolectomy and accuracy of CT scan as a preoperative tool for staging in right sided colonic cancers
Authors: Lim M. , Hussain Z. , Howe A. , Storey R. , Petty D. , Haselden J. , Sebag‐Montefiore D. , Alexander D.
Published: October 2012

Aim

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy may have a role in the management of colonic carcinoma but clinical trials are required to determine whether this approach is superior to the standard policy of radical surgery, high‐quality histopathology and selective postoperative chemotherapy. The selection of appropriate patients for such trials will depend on accurate locoregional staging of disease by preoperative CT scanning. We studied the outcome after radical right hemicolectomy and assessed the accuracy of preoperative CT scans in the prediction of postoperative pathology.

Method

A retrospective analysis of right hemicolectomies performed with curative intent for colon cancer under the care of a single colorectal surgeon (D.J.A.) was performed. Preoperative CT‐proven Dukes D patients were excluded. Patient demographics, postoperative histology, use of adjuvant chemotherapy and survival data were collected. Kaplan–Meier curves were constructed and log‐rank testing was performed to compare cancer‐specific survival. Fifty patients had their preoperative CT scan images reviewed by two radiologists both blinded to the results of the postoperative histology. The accuracy of preoperative CT for T and N staging was studied. A P‐value of < 0.05 was significant.

Results

There were 136 patients (79 women). Median age was 76 (interquartile ratio 67–82) years. Median period of follow‐up was 72 (interquartile ratio 39–92) months. There were 56 deaths (39 medical, 16 oncological and 1 postoperative). There were three groups of patients: node negative (n = 84), node positive with postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy (n = 30) and node positive without chemotherapy (n = 22). Five‐year cancer‐specific survival for node negative disease was 84% and was poorer for node positive patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy when compared with those who did not (62 vs 72%, P‐value = 0.046 on log‐rank testing). Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive value of CT scan for tumour (T) stage were 90, 33, 86 and 43% respectively, while that for nodal (N) stage was 83, 38, 57 and 69%, respectively.

Conclusion

CT scan has limited accuracy in predicting those patients with advanced locoregional disease who might benefit from neoadjuvant treatment. When this finding is combined with relatively high cancer‐specific survival with surgery alone the impact of adjuvant chemotherapy on survival after radical surgery for right colon carcinoma may be marginal.
Distensibility of the anal canal in patients with systemic sclerosis: a study with the functional lumen imaging probe
Authors: Fynne L. , Luft F. , Gregersen H. , Buntzen S. , Lundby L. , Lundager F. , Laurberg S. , Krogh K.
Published: October 2012

Aim

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a generalized connective tissue disease that affects smooth muscle cells. Patients with SSc often have faecal incontinence caused by fibrotic degeneration of the internal anal sphincter (IAS). The functional lumen imaging probe (FLIP) is a novel method that allows the segmental biomechanical properties of the anal canal to be dynamically evaluated. The aim of the present study was to compare the segmental biomechanical properties of the anal canal in incontinent SSc patients and healthy controls. We hypothesized that the FLIP would reveal weaknesses of the IAS in the SSc patients.

Method

We performed FLIP distensions, endoanal ultrasonography and standard anal manometry on 14 incontinent SSc patients [11 women, median age 60 years (range 35–80)] and 15 healthy volunteers [12 women, median age 54 years (range 33–67)]. The anal canal was divided into three parts for the biomechanical analysis: upper (surrounded by the IAS and the puborectalis), middle (IAS and external anal sphincter) and lower (external sphincter only).

Results

The middle anal canal was the segment most resistant to distension in all of the subjects, but it was less resistant in the SSc patients than in the controls (P < 0.01). Correspondingly, the endoanal ultrasonography showed that the IAS of the SSc patients was thinner than normal (P < 0.05), and the anal resting and squeeze pressures were lower (P < 0.05). Only minor distensibility differences were found in the upper anal canal. No changes were found in the lower anal canal.

Conclusion

Faecal incontinence in SSc patients is associated with poor IAS function, causing increased distensibility of the middle anal canal.
Acute effects of resistance training on cytokines and osteoprotegerin in women with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Pereira Guilherme B. , Tibana Ramires A. , Navalta James , Sousa Nuno M. F. , Córdova Claudio , Souza Vinícius C. , Nóbrega Otávio T. , Prestes Jonato , Perez Sergio E. A.
Published: October 2012

Chronic inflammation has been identified as an important component of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Inhibition of the inflammatory mediator signals is a promising strategy against insulin resistance, atherosclerosis and other problems associated with MetS. Regular exercise decreases the components associated with MetS, including inflammatory cytokines. However, the relationship between an acute resistance training (RT) session, cytokine levels and MetS is unclear. Therefore, the aim was to evaluate the effects of a single bout of acute RT on tumour necrosis factor (TNF‐α), interleukins (IL) IL‐1a, IL‐1β, IL‐12, IL‐6, IL‐10 and osteoprotegerin (OPG) in women with MetS. Twenty‐four women were divided into 2 groups: metabolic syndrome (MetS) and non‐metabolic syndrome (Non‐MetS). After the familiarization and testing for 1 repetition maximum (1RM), participants completed 3 sets of 10 repetitions in the following exercises: machine leg press, leg extension, leg curl, chest press, lat front pull‐down and machine shoulder press with 60% of 1RM followed by 15 repetitions of abdominal crunches. A rest interval of 1 min was allowed between sets and exercises. Plasma TNF‐α, IL‐1a, IL‐1β, IL‐12, IL‐6, IL‐10 and OPG were measured before, immediately post and 60 min after RT. MetS group showed significantly higher concentrations of IL‐1β (P = 0·024) and IL‐6 (P = 0·049) and a trend for higher TNF‐α values (P = 0·092) compared with Non‐MetS. There was no group × time interactions after the RT session on the measured cytokines and osteoprotegerin. In conclusion, acute RT session induced no additional increase in pro‐inflammatory cytokines nor a decrease in anti‐inflammatory cytokines and OPG in women with MetS.
Stability of the Gross Motor Function Classification System after single‐event multilevel surgery in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: RUTZ ERICH , TIROSH OREN , THOMASON PAM , BARG ALEXEJ , GRAHAM H KERR
Published: October 2012

Aim  There are conflicting reports about the stability of the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) in children with cerebral palsy (CP) after orthopaedic surgery. We studied the stability of the GMFCS in children with bilateral spastic CP after single‐event multilevel surgery, using the Gait Profile Score (GPS) as the primary outcome measure.

Method  This was a retrospective cohort study of 107 children (46 females, 61 males) with bilateral spastic CP, classified as GMFCS level II or III, who underwent surgery at a single tertiary institution between 1997 and 2008. The mean age at surgery was 10 years 7 months (SD 2y 8mo). The primary outcome measure was the GPS. Changes in GMFCS level were studied at multiple time points before and after intervention.

Results  Gait dysfunction was partially corrected, with a mean improvement of 28% in the GPS. The GMFCS remained stable and unchanged in 95% of children and improved by one level in 5% of children. The improvement in GPS was three times the minimal clinically important difference. The mean age at final postoperative GPS assessment was 11 years 10 months (SD 2y 10mo) and at final GMFCS assessment was 15 years 7 months (SD 3y 9mo).

Interpretation  Stability of the GMFCS was confirmed in the majority of children with bilateral spastic CP after single‐event multilevel surgery, despite statistically and clinically significant improvements in gait dysfunction and functional mobility. This information is important in realistic goal‐setting and in counselling families.
Ethnic aspects of emotional distress in patients with diabetes – the Amsterdam Health Monitor Study
Authors: Pouwer F. , Wijnhoven H. A. H. , Ujcic‐Voortman J. K. , de Wit M. , Schram M. T. , Baan C. A. , Snoek F. J.
Published: October 2012

Aims

Depression and anxiety are relatively common in patients with diabetes, but it is unclear whether migrant patients with diabetes are at increased risk for emotional distress. We determined levels of emotional distress in patients with diabetes with a Turkish, Moroccan or Dutch ethnic background and compare distress levels with healthy control subjects. Among patients with diabetes, we examined demographic and clinical correlates of higher levels of emotional distress.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data were collected within the framework of the population‐based Amsterdam Health Monitor Survey. Adult participants were interviewed to assess demographics, presence of chronic disease(s) and ethnic background. Emotional distress was determined with the Kessler psychological distress scale. Blood was drawn to determine HbA1c, glucose, HDL and total cholesterol. Anthropometrics and blood pressure were assessed during a medical examination.

Results

The total sample comprised of 1736 participants. The prevalence of emotional distress was significantly higher in participants with diabetes (31%) compared with healthy participants (19%). Increased levels of emotional distress were reported by 38% of the Turkish, 35% of the native Dutch and 29% of the Moroccan patients with diabetes. Among patients with diabetes, the presence of two or more co‐morbid chronic diseases was most strongly associated with higher levels of emotional distress, whereas glycaemic control, cholesterol, blood pressure or waist circumference were not.

Conclusions

Emotional distress affects approximately one third of adult patients with diabetes living in Amsterdam. Having multiple co‐morbid diseases seems related to more emotional distress among these patients, while ethnicity and diabetes‐related characteristics are not.
External validity of randomized controlled trials of glycaemic control and vascular disease: how representative are participants?
Authors: Saunders C. , Byrne C. D. , Guthrie B. , Lindsay R. S. , McKnight J. A. , Philip S. , Sattar N. , Walker J. J. , Wild S. H. ,   on behalf of the Scottish Diabetes Research Network Epidemiology Group
Published: October 2012

Aims

To describe the proportion of people with Type 2 diabetes living in Scotland who meet eligibility criteria for inclusion in several large randomized controlled trials of glycaemic control to inform physicians and guideline developers about the generalizibility of trial results.

Methods

A literature review was performed to identify large trials assessing the impact of glycaemic control on risk of macrovascular disease. Inclusion and exclusion criteria from each trial were applied to data on the population of people with a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes living in Scotland in 2008 (n = 180 590) in a population‐based cross‐sectional study and the number and proportion of people eligible for each trial was determined.

Results

Seven trials were identified. The proportion of people with Type 2 diabetes who met the eligibility criteria for the trials ranged from 3.5 to 50.7%. Trial participants were younger at age of diagnosis of diabetes and at time of trial recruitment than in the Scottish study population. The application of upper age criteria excluded the largest proportion of patients, with up to 39% of people with Type 2 diabetes ineligible for a trial with the most stringent criteria based on age alone.

Conclusions

We found that many of the large trials of glycaemic control among people with Type 2 diabetes have limited external validity when applied to a population‐based cohort of people with Type 2 diabetes. In particular, the age distribution of trial participants often does not reflect that of people with Type 2 diabetes in a contemporary British population.
NMDA receptor blockade by memantine does not prevent adaptation to recurrent hypoglycaemia in healthy men
Authors: Klement J. , Pais I. , Strube J. , Lehnert H. , Peters A. , Hallschmid M. , Born J.
Published: October 2012

Aims

Recurrent hypoglycaemia leads to an attenuation of hypoglycaemic symptoms and hormonal counterregulatory responses. This phenomenon poses a severe problem in the treatment of patients with diabetes mellitus, but the underlying neuroendocrine mechanisms are unclear. On the basis of animal experimental findings, we hypothesized that counterregulatory attenuation represents a basic adaptive learning process relying on synaptic long‐term potentiation or depression. If so, attenuation should be prevented by blocking glutamatergic N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors.

Methods

Sixteen healthy young men participated in two conditions, separated by 4 weeks. Participants received the NMDA antagonist memantine over 5 days (15 mg/day) in one condition and placebo in the other one. After 3 days of drug administration, participants underwent two hypoglycaemic clamps on day 4 and another one on day 5. We assessed blood concentrations of counterregulatory hormones (cortisol, ACTH, epinephrine, norepinephrine, growth hormone and glucagon) as well as subjective symptoms of hypoglycaemia and word‐list recall as an indicator of short‐term memory.

Results

Counterregulatory responses of all hormones as well as neuroglycopenic and autonomic symptom ratings showed robust attenuation following the third as compared to the first hypoglycaemia (p < 0.05). NMDA receptor antagonization by memantine impaired memory function but did not alter any neuroendocrine measure of counterregulatory attenuation (p > 0.17).

Conclusions

Attenuation of the endocrine as well as symptomatic counterregulatory response to recurrent hypoglycaemia is not prevented by the NMDA receptor blocker memantine. Our results do not support the view that adaptation to repeated hypoglycaemia relies on NMDA receptor‐mediated plastic processes involving long‐term potentiation or depression.
Clinical indicators of midface fracture in patients with trauma
Authors: Smith Hayden L. , Chrischilles Elizabeth , Janus Todd J. , Sidwell Richard A. , Ramirez Marizen , Peek‐Asa Corinne , Sahr Sheryl M.
Published: October 2012

Background/Aim

Midface fractures are commonly present and difficult to diagnose in trauma patients. The objective of this study was to determine clinically accessible indicators of midface fracture.

Material and Methods

A case‐control study design was used to determine clinical indicators of midface fracture. Population source was a level I trauma center registry for years 2007–2009. Cases had a documented midface fracture. Patient and trauma characteristics were compared between cases and controls. Multivariate logistic regression analysis determined significant indicators of midface fracture.

Results

Study sample included 83 cases and 83 frequency‐matched controls. Cases had a total of 211 fractures with a median of two midface fractures per person. Common fractures were orbital (41%), malar and maxillary (28%), and nasal bones (19%). Patients with midface fracture were significantly different than patients without midface fracture in severity of injury and were more likely to have a traumatic brain injury. Significant clinical indicators of fracture were maxillary sinus opacification, ethmoid sinus opacification, forehead laceration, periorbital contusion, epistaxis, and injury mechanism (P < 0.05). Patients with midface fracture had a 63 times greater odds for maxillary sinus opacification. The multivariable model correctly classified the presence and absence of midface fracture in 95% of study sample.

Conclusions

Determined indicators of midface fracture provided a high level of discrimination in fracture status. Indicators can be used by clinicians to help detect possible midface fractures. Future prospective research on midface fracture indicators can assist in establishing their generalizability and impact on fracture detection, care, and outcomes.
Effect of skimmed pasteurized milk and Hank's balanced salt solution on viability and osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells
Authors: Wang Wen‐Jun , Zhao Yu‐Ming , Feng Xiao‐Yu , Jia Wei‐Qian , Ge Li‐Hong
Published: October 2012

Background/Aim

The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of skimmed pasteurized milk and Hank's balanced salt solution on the viability and osteogenic differentiation potential of the human periodontal ligament stem cells at room temperature in vitro.

Material and methods

Human periodontal ligament stem cells were obtained from extracted healthy third molars and conserved in skimmed pasteurized milk and Hank's balanced salt solution for 1, 2, and 4 h at room temperature to detect the viability of the cells and their osteogenic differentiation potential.

Results

The efficacy of skimmed pasteurized milk on cell viability at 4 h was significantly higher than that of HBSS (P < 0.05), and cells stored in skimmed pasteurized milk showed significantly higher levels of mineralization than those in HBSS at 2 and 4 h (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Skimmed pasteurized milk was more effective than Hank's balanced salt solution in maintaining the viability and osteogenic differentiation potential of PDLSCs at room temperature in vitro.
Postfabrication thickness of single‐ and double‐layered pressure‐formed mouthguards
Authors: Tunc Emine Sen , Ozdemir Turkan Egilmez , Arici Selim
Published: October 2012

Aim

The thickness of a mouthguard (MG) plays an important role in its primary function of preventing injuries. Multi‐layered MGs have recently come into prominent use due to the disadvantages associated with single‐layered MGs. Whereas researchers have evaluated the postfabrication thickness of single‐layered MGs, the effects of fabrication procedures on multi‐layered MGs are unknown. This study aimed to evaluate postfabrication thickness of various single‐layered and double‐layered pressure‐formed MGs.

Materials and methods

Mouthguards were fabricated using stone models produced from impressions of a phantom model maxillary arch. A total of 50 MGs were fabricated from ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) sheets and divided into 10 groups of five according to the sheet(s) used in fabrication. The initial thickness of each sheet was recorded prior to fabrication. Following fabrication, MG thickness was measured at seven sites per MG. Data were analyzed using independent t‐tests and one‐way anova followed by Tukey's test.

Results

Mean reduction in MG thickness was 36–38% for single‐layered MGs and 32–34% for double‐layered MGs. Significant differences in thickness were seen between measured sites for all MG groups (P < 0.05). Maximum thinning occurred at the incisal edge of the central incisor, whereas minimum thinning was observed in the molar crown fissure sites for all groups.

Conclusion

Clinicians should take into account the effects of fabrication on MG thickness. A loss of thickness of approximately 50% should be expected in critical areas of both single‐layered and double‐layered MGs made from EVA.
Staining susceptibility of new calcium aluminate cement (EndoBinder) in teeth: a 1‐year in vitro study
Authors: Garcia Lucas da Fonseca Roberi , Aguilar Fabiano Gamero , Rossetto Hebert Luis , Sabino Marcio Gomes , Pires‐de‐Souza Fernanda de Carvalho Panzeri
Published: October 2012

Aim

To evaluate the staining susceptibility of new calcium aluminate cement (EndoBinder, EB) in teeth, with or without radiopacifying agent, in comparison with mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA).

Materials and methods

Forty bovine incisors were used. After biomechanical preparation and filling, 2 mm of their fillings were removed for cervical plug fabrication (n = 10): EB without radiopacifier; EndoBinder + Bismuth Oxide (EBBO); Gray mineral trioxide aggregate (GMTA) and White mineral trioxide aggregate (WMTA). After teeth restoration, initial color readout was taken (Easyshade – CIE Lab) on the vestibular face. The teeth were stored in artificial saliva at 37°C for 1 year, and after time intervals of 30, 180, and 360 days, new color readouts were taken to determine color alteration (ΔE) in comparison with the initial readout (baseline).

Results

The results (2‐way anova repeated measures, Bonferroni – P < 0.05) demonstrated that after 360 days, all groups presented ΔE above the clinically accepted limit (ΔE ≥ 3.3), however, without significant difference among them (P > 0.05). All groups presented decrease in ΔL values over the course of time, and the greatest variation occurred for WMTA, with significant difference in comparison with EB and EBBO (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Some negative features of MTA, such as the high incidence of dental structures staining justify the development of new materials. GMTA, WMTA, and EB with and without radiopacifying agent displayed color alteration (ΔE) after 360 days; however, the luminosity change (ΔL) was lower in EB in comparison with GMTA and WMTA.
Iron metabolism in athletes – achieving a gold standard
Authors: Latunde‐Dada Gladys O.
Published: October 2012

Iron is an important mineral element required for diverse life processes. Its metabolism is almost synonymous to erythrocyte maintenance, erythropoiesis and erythrophagocytosis. Consequently, exercise exertion impacts significantly on red cell haematology. Here, the interactions between exercise and erythropoiesis are explored. Hepcidin, the peptide hormone that regulates systemic iron metabolism, decreases in response to erythropoiesis by facilitating increased iron efflux from ferroportin into circulation. However, during exercise, there is an alarming increase in the expression of hepcidin resulting in a negative iron balance in athletes. In this review, the confounding cause and effect scenarios of exercise, athlete training and haematology and hepcidin interactions are discussed.
Neuroimaging comparison of primary progressive apraxia of speech and progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Whitwell J. L. , Duffy J. R. , Strand E. A. , Machulda M. M. , Senjem M. L. , Gunter J. L. , Kantarci K. , Eggers S. D. , Jack C. R. , Josephs K. A.
Published: October 2012

Background and purpose

Primary progressive apraxia of speech, a motor speech disorder of planning and programming, is a tauopathy that has overlapping histological features with progressive supranuclear palsy. We aimed to compare, for the first time, atrophy patterns, as well as white matter tract degeneration, between these two syndromes.

Methods

Sixteen primary progressive apraxia of speech subjects were age‐ and gender‐matched to 16 progressive supranuclear palsy subjects and 20 controls. All subjects were prospectively recruited, underwent neurological and speech evaluations and 3.0‐Tesla magnetic resonance imaging. Grey and white matter atrophy was assessed using voxel‐based morphometry and atlas‐based parcellation, and white matter tract degeneration was assessed using diffusion tensor imaging.

Results

All progressive supranuclear palsy subjects had typical oculomotor/gait impairments, but none had speech apraxia. Both syndromes showed grey matter loss in supplementary motor area, white matter loss in posterior frontal lobes and degeneration of the body of the corpus callosum. Whilst lateral grey matter loss was focal, involving superior premotor cortex, in primary progressive apraxia of speech, loss was less focal extending into prefrontal cortex in progressive supranuclear palsy. Caudate volume loss and tract degeneration of superior cerebellar peduncles were also observed in progressive supranuclear palsy. Interestingly, area of the midbrain was reduced in both syndromes compared to controls, although this was greater in progressive supranuclear palsy.

Conclusions

Although neuroanatomical differences were identified between these distinctive clinical syndromes, substantial overlap was also observed, including midbrain atrophy, suggesting these two syndromes may have common pathophysiological underpinnings.
Genetic support for the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in psoriasis susceptibility
Authors: Carlström Maria , Ekman Anna‐Karin , Petersson Stina , Söderkvist Peter , Enerbäck Charlotta
Published: October 2012

NACHT leucine‐rich repeat‐ and PYD‐containing (NLRP)3 protein controls the inflammasome by regulating caspase‐1 activity and interleukin (IL)‐1β processing. The contribution of IL‐1β in the pathogenesis of psoriasis is well recognized. Polymorphisms in NLRP3 and caspase recruitment domain–containing protein (CARD)8, a negative regulator of caspase‐1 activity, have been associated with susceptibility to common inflammatory diseases, such as Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis. To investigate the role for genetic variants in the NLRP3 inflammasome in psoriasis susceptibility. In a patient sample comprising 1988 individuals from 491 families and 1002 healthy controls, genotypes for four selected single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in NLRP3 (three SNPs) and CARD8 (one SNP) were determined by TaqMan® Allelic Discrimination. Using the transmission disequilibrium test (TDT), a significant increase in the transmission of the NLRP3 rs10733113G genotype to a subgroup of patients with more widespread psoriasis was demonstrated (P = 0.015). Using logistic regression analysis in 741 patients with psoriasis and 1002 controls, the CARD8 rs2043211 genotype was significantly different in cases and controls in overall terms [OR 1.3 (1.1–1.5), P = 0.004] and for both genders. Our data support the hypothesis that the inflammasome plays a role in psoriasis susceptibility.
Influence of cyanide on diauxic oscillations in yeast
Authors: Hald Bjørn O. , Smrcinova Miroslava , Sørensen Preben G.
Published: October 2012

Coherent glycolytic oscillations in Saccharomyces cerevisiae are a multicellular property induced by addition of glucose to a starved cell population of sufficient density. However, initiation of oscillations requires an additional perturbation, usually addition of cyanide. The fate of cyanide during glycolytic oscillations has not previously been studied, and is the subject of the present paper. Using a cyanide electrode, a substantial decrease in cyanide concentration was observed. In the pH range 6–7, we found experimentally that the electrode behaves reasonably well, provided changes in pH are taken into account. To our knowledge, use of a cyanide electrode to study cyanide dynamics in living biological systems is new. Cyanide was found to enter starving yeast cells in only negligible amounts, and did not react significantly with glucose. Thus, cyanide consumption must be explained by reactions with glycolytic intermediates and evaporation. Evaporation and reaction with the signalling substance, extracellular acetaldehyde (ACAx) only explains the observed cyanide removal if [ACAx] is improbably high. Furthermore, differences in NADH traces upon cyanide addition before or after glucose addition strongly suggest that cyanide also reacts with intracellular carbonyl‐containing metabolites. We show that cyanide reacts with pyruvate (Pyr) and dihydroxyacetone phosphate in addition to ACA, and estimate their rate constants. Our results strongly suggest that the major routes of cyanide removal during glycolysis are reactions with pyruvate and ACA. Cyanide removal by all carbonyl‐containing intermediates led to a lower mean [ACAx], thereby increasing the amplitude of [ACAx] oscillations.

Database

The mathematical model described here has been submitted to the JWS Online Cellular Systems Modelling Database and can be accessed at http://jjj.biochem.sun.ac.za/database/hald/index.html free of charge.