bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Century of Selection
Authors: Ryan Ann Marie , Ployhart Robert E.
Published: September 2013

Over 100 years of psychological research on employee selection has yielded many advances, but the field continues to tackle controversies and challenging problems, revisit once-settled topics, and expand its borders. This review discusses recent advances in designing, implementing, and evaluating selection systems. Key trends such as expanding the criterion space, improving situational judgment tests, and tackling socially desirable responding are discussed. Particular attention is paid to the ways in which technology has substantially altered the selection research and practice landscape. Other areas where practice lacks a research base are noted, and directions for future research are discussed.
Electrophysiological phenotype in the LQTS mutations Y111C and R518X in the KCNQ1 gene
Authors: Diamant Ulla-Britt , Vahedi Farzad , Winbo Annika , Rydberg Annika , Stattin Eva-Lena , Jensen Steen M. , Bergfeldt Lennart
Published: September 2013

Long QT syndrome is the prototypical disorder of ventricular repolarization (VR), and a genotype-phenotype relation is postulated. Furthermore, although increased VR heterogeneity (dispersion) may be important in the arrhythmogenicity in long QT syndrome, this hypothesis has not been evaluated in humans and cannot be tested by conventional electrocardiography. In contrast, vectorcardiography allows assessment of VR heterogeneity and is more sensitive to VR alterations than electrocardiography. Therefore, vectorcardiography was used to compare the electrophysiological phenotypes of two mutations in the LQT1 gene with different in vitro biophysical properties, and with LQT2 mutation carriers and healthy control subjects. We included 99 LQT1 gene mutation carriers (57 Y111C, 42 R518X) and 19 LQT2 gene mutation carriers. Potassium channel function is in vitro most severely impaired in Y111C. The control group consisted of 121 healthy subjects. QRS, QT, and T-peak to T-end (Tp-e) intervals, measures of the QRS vector and T vector and their relationship, and T-loop morphology parameters were compared at rest. Apart from a longer heart rate-corrected QT interval (QT heart rate corrected according to Bazett) in Y111C mutation carriers, there were no significant differences between the two LQT1 mutations. No signs of increased VR heterogeneity were observed among the LQT1 and LQT2 mutation carriers. QT heart rate corrected according to Bazett and Tp-e were longer, and the Tp-e-to-QT ratio greater in LQT2 than in LQT1 and the control group. In conclusion, there was a marked discrepancy between in vitro potassium channel function and in vivo electrophysiological properties in these two LQT1 mutations. Together with previous observations of the relatively low risk for clinical events in Y111C mutation carriers, our results indicate need for cautiousness in predicting in vivo electrophysiological properties and the propensity for clinical events based on in vitro assessment of ion channel function alone.
Admission Screening of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus with Rapid Molecular Detection in Intensive Care Unit: A Three-Year Single-Centre Experience in Hong Kong
Authors: Leung Eddie Chi Man , Lee May Kin Ping , Lai Raymond Wai Man
Published: September 2013

Background. The admission screening of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) by rapid molecular assay is considered to be an effective method in reducing the transmission of MRSA in intensive care unit (ICU). Method. The admission screening on patients from ICU once on their admissions by BD GeneOhm MRSA assay has been introduced to Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, since 2008. The assay was performed on weekdays and reported on the day of testing. Patients pending for results were under standard precautions until the negative screening results were notified, while contact precautions were implemented for MRSA-positive patients. In this study, we compared the MRSA transmission rate in molecular screening periods (2008 to 2010) with the historical culture periods (2006 to 2007) as control. Results. A total of 4679 samples were tested; the average carriage rate of MRSA on admission was 4.45%. By comparing with the historical culture periods, the mean incidence ICU-acquired MRSA infection was reduced from 3.67 to 1.73 per 1000 patient bed days. Conclusion. The implementation of admission screening of MRSA with molecular method in intensive care unit could reduce the MRSA transmission, especially in the area with high MRSA prevalence situation in Hong Kong.
Gene Networks during Skeletal Myogenesis
Authors: Eng Diana , Ma Hsiao-Yen , Gross Michael K. , Kioussi Chrissa
Published: September 2013

Mammalian skeletal muscles are derived from mesoderm segments flanking the embryonic midline. Upon receiving inductive cues from the adjacent neural tube, lateral plate mesoderm, and surface ectoderm, muscle precursors start to delaminate, migrate to their final destinations and proliferate. Muscle precursor cells become committed to the myogenic fate, become differentiated muscle cells, and fuse to form myofibers. Myofibers then fuse together to form the muscle groups. Muscle precursor cells have the ability to proliferate, and differentiate during development, while a subset remains capable of regeneration and repair of local injuries in adulthood. When the process of muscle development is perturbed such as in muscular dystrophies and injuries, ways to intervene and allow for proper muscle development or repair are the focus of regenerative medicine. Thus, understanding the developmental program of muscle at the genetic, cellular, and molecular levels has become a major focus of skeletal muscle regeneration research in the last few years.
Evaluation of Corrosion Growth on SS304 Based on Textural and Color Features from Image Analysis
Authors: Pidaparti Ramana M. , Hinderliter Brian , Maskey Darshan
Published: September 2013

Corrosion surface damage in the form of pitting and microcracks is observed in many systems and affects the integrity of steel structures in nuclear, civil, and industrial engineering. In order to gain a better understanding and develop nondestructive and automatic detection/assessment of corrosion damage and its growth, an image analysis based on texture using wavelet transforms and color features was carried out. Experiments were conducted on steel 304 panels under three different electrolyte solutions, and periodic scans were used to obtain the images for analysis over time. The results obtained from the image analysis are presented to illustrate the metrics which best characterize early stage corrosion damage growth behavior. The results obtained indicate that textural features in combination with color features are more effective and may be used for correlating service/failure conditions based on corrosion morphology.
Identification of Target Genes Involved in the Antiproliferative Effect of Enzyme-Modified Ginseng Extract in HepG2 Hepatocarcinoma Cell
Authors: Jang Sung-Il , Lee Yeon-Weol , Cho Chong-Kwan , Yoo Hwa-Seung , Jang Jun-Hyeog
Published: September 2013

Ginsenosides are ginseng saponins, which are the major biologically active components ofPanax ginseng, often metabolized by intestinal bacteria into more effective forms. In this study, we found that the antiproliferative activity of ginseng increased after enzymatic processing of ginseng saponin (50% inhibitory concentration [IC50], >30 μg/mL), which may be the result of the accumulation of minor saponins, such as Rh1, Rg3, compound K, and PPT constituents in ginseng saponin. Using the Agilent PrimeView Human Gene Expression Array, we found that the expression of several genes involved in apoptosis (caspase-4, Annexin A2, HSPA9, AIFM1, UQCRC2, andcaspase-7) were increased in HepG2 human hepatocarcinoma cells after their treatment with enzyme-modified ginseng extract (EMGE). Furthermore, several genes implicated in cell cycle progression (CDCA3, CDCA8, CABLES2, CDC25B, CNNM3, andCCNK) showed decreased expression in HepG2 cells treated with EMGE. Finally, from flow cytometric analysis, we found that EMGE-treated HepG2 cells showed increased apoptotic sub-G1 population (24%), compared with that observed in DMSO-treated control cells (1.6%). Taken together, our results suggest that EMGE induces anticancer activity through the induction of apoptosis-related genes and cell cycle arrest via decreased expression of cell cycle regulatory genes.
Latent Abnormal Pathology Affects Long-Term Graft Function in Elder Living Renal Allograft Recipients
Authors: Ma Linlin , Zhang Lei , Du Yu , Xie Zelin , Tang Yawang , Lin Jun , Sun Wen , Guo Hongbo , Bi Rumei , Zhang Mengmeng , Zhu Xi , Tian Ye
Published: September 2013

Objective. This study evaluated the long-term effects and clinical significance of latent abnormal pathology on elder living donor kidney graft function after renal transplantation in China.Methods. One-hundred and thirty-eight living donor renal transplantations have been carried out at our hospital in recent years. Of these, 72 Time-Zero biopsies were performed and used in this analysis. Clinical data were retrospectively measured at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months after renal transplants. Relationships and effects from biopsy results taken from implanted donor kidney grafts were analyzed.Results. Time-Zero biopsy pathology results from donor kidneys showed that 48.61% of donor kidneys had latent abnormal changes; arterial lesions of donor kidneys had significant effects on the renal function of grafts after 2 years' transplantation; correlations between donor age and arterial lesions were significant; and Time-Zero biopsy pathology results could help predict the long-term function of a renal graft.Conclusions. Existing latent pathological changes of an elder living donor kidney before transplantation could affect long-term renal function. Whether a senior donor is used should be very carefully considered.
Boron‐Fluorine Photosensitizers for Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Yao Liang , Xiao Shuzhang , Dan Feijun
Published: September 2013

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been recognized as a promising treatment for cancers and tumors, in which photosensitizer is one of the most important issues. As a class of excellent fluorescent dyes, boron‐fluorine derivatives (typically 4,4‐difluoro‐4‐bora‐3a,4a‐diaza‐s‐indacene, BODIPY) have preferable ability of generating singlet oxygen and have been under extensive study for PDT sensitizers. In this review, we summarize the recent progress of design and applications of boron‐fluorine‐based photosensitizers for PDT.
Anti-Yo Associated Paraneoplastic Cerebellar Degeneration in a Man with Large Cell Cancer of the Lung
Authors: Hasadsri Linda , Lee James , Wang Bonnie H. , Yekkirala Lalitha , Wang Mingtao
Published: September 2013

Purkinje cell cytoplasmic antibody type 1 (PCA-1), or anti-Yo, is the most frequently detected autoantibody in paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration (PCD). The vast majority of cases of anti-Yo PCD, however, occur in females over 60 years old and are associated with gynecologic tumors. Only 10 cases have been reported in males, and only 2 were associated with cancer of the lung. Here we describe the youngest known case of PCA-1 positive PCD in a male, whose lung tumor was undetectable even on FDG-PET.
Global Analysis of a Blood Flow Model with Artificial Boundaries
Authors: Oukouomi Noutchie S. C.
Published: September 2013

A theoretical model for blood flow in ramifying arteries was introduced and studied numerically (Quarteroni and Veneziani, 2003). A special experimental condition was considered on the artificial boundaries. In this paper, the aim is to analyze the well-posedness of this model, with the focus on the stilted boundary conditions. We use Brouwer’s fixed point theorem to show the existence of a solution to the stationary problem. For the evolutionary version, we use some energy estimates and Galerkin’s method to prove global existence, uniqueness, and stability of a weak solution.
Underestimating the Toxicological Challenges Associated with the Use of Herbal Medicinal Products in Developing Countries
Authors: Neergheen-Bhujun Vidushi S.
Published: September 2013

Various reports suggest a high contemporaneous prevalence of herb-drug use in both developed and developing countries. The World Health Organisation indicates that 80% of the Asian and African populations rely on traditional medicine as the primary method for their health care needs. Since time immemorial and despite the beneficial and traditional roles of herbs in different communities, the toxicity and herb-drug interactions that emanate from this practice have led to severe adverse effects and fatalities. As a result of the perception that herbal medicinal products have low risk, consumers usually disregard any association between their use and any adverse reactions hence leading to underreporting of adverse reactions. This is particularly common in developing countries and has led to a paucity of scientific data regarding the toxicity and interactions of locally used traditional herbal medicine. Other factors like general lack of compositional and toxicological information of herbs and poor quality of adverse reaction case reports present hurdles which are highly underestimated by the population in the developing world. This review paper addresses these toxicological challenges and calls for natural health product regulations as well as for protocols and guidance documents on safety and toxicity testing of herbal medicinal products.
Lens Injury Has a Protective Effect on Photoreceptors in the RCS Rat
Authors: Heiduschka Peter , Renninger Daniel , Fischer Dietmar , Müller Adrienne , Hofmeister Sabine , Schraermeyer Ulrich
Published: September 2013

Lens injury induced activation of retinal glia, and subsequent release of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) and leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) potently protect axotomised retinal ganglion cells from apoptosis and promotes axon regeneration in the injured optic nerve. The goal of the current study was to investigate if similar effects may also be applicable to rescue photoreceptors from degeneration in a model of retinitis pigmentosa. Lens injury was performed in the Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats at the age of one month. The survival of photoreceptors was evaluated histologically, and retinal function was analysed by electroretinography (ERG). Expression of CNTF was also analysed. Lens injury significantly enhanced the survival of photoreceptors 1 month after surgery compared to untreated controls, which was associated with an enhanced ERG response. In addition, lens injury significantly protected photoreceptors from degeneration in the contralateral eye, although to a much lesser extent. We could show that lens injury is sufficient to transiently delay the degeneration of photoreceptors in the RCS rat. The observed neuroprotective effects may be at least partially mediated by an upregulation of CNTF expression seen after lens injury.
Correlation of Various Techniques in Diagnosis of Tuberculous Lymphadenitis on Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology
Authors: Thakur Brijesh , Mehrotra Ravi , Nigam Jitendra Singh
Published: September 2013

Objective. To study the correlation of cytomorphological features in fine needle aspiration smears from patients suspected of having tuberculous lymphadenitis with Ziehl-Neelsen staining (ZN), auramine-rhodamine staining (ARS), and autofluorescence (AF). Methods. A total of 145 lymph nodes were aspirated, 3 air-dried smears were stained with Giemsa, Ziehl-Neelsen, and auramine-rhodamine stains, and 1 smear was wet fixed for Papanicolaou staining. Needle washes were incubated in Lowenstein-Jensen medium for culture. Papanicolaou and auramine-rhodamine stained smears were examined under fluorescent microscope using a blue excitation filter (450–480 nm). Results. Ninety aspirates were reported on cytomorphology as suggestive of tuberculous lymphadenitis. Smear positivity for Mycobacteria by Ziehl-Neelsen method was 26.67% (24/90), while positivity increased to 34.44% (31/90) by auramine-rhodamine and 42.22% (38/90) on autofluorescence. Culture was positive in 27.78% (25/90) aspirates. Using culture as the reference method, the statistical values of ZN, ARS, and AF were as follows: sensitivity 80.0%, 88.0%, 96.0%; specificity 93.85%, 86.15%, 78.46%; positive predictive values 83.33%, 70.97%, 63.16%; and negative predictive values 92.42%, 94.92%, 98.08%, respectively. Conclusion. There is a definite advantage of autofluorescence over Ziehl-Neelsen and auramine-rhodamine which is to detect Mycobacteria, being more sensitive as well as an inexpensive technique. Autofluorescence can be a useful addition to routine cytology for early diagnosis and effective treatment.
Effect of the Plasmid-DNA Vaccination on Macroscopic and Microscopic Damage Caused by the Experimental ChronicTrypanosoma cruziInfection in the Canine Model
Authors: Rodríguez-Morales Olivia , Carrillo-Sánchez Silvia C. , García-Mendoza Humberto , Aranda-Fraustro Alberto , Ballinas-Verdugo Martha A. , Alejandre-Aguilar Ricardo , Rosales-Encina José Luis , Vallejo Maite , Arce-Fonseca Minerva
Published: September 2013

The dog is considered the main domestic reservoir forTrypanosoma cruziinfection and a suitable experimental animal model to study the pathological changes during the course of Chagas disease (CD). Vaccine development is one of CD prevention methods to protect people at risk. Two plasmids containing genes encoding atrans-sialidase protein (TcSP) and an amastigote-specific glycoprotein (TcSSP4) were used as DNA vaccines in a canine model. Splenomegaly was not found in either of the recombinant plasmid-immunized groups; however, cardiomegaly was absent in animals immunized only with the plasmid containing theTcSSP4gene. The inflammation of subendocardial and myocardial tissues was prevented only with the immunization withTcSSP4gene. In conclusion, the vaccination with these genes has a partial protective effect on the enlargement of splenic and cardiac tissues during the chronic CD and on microscopic hearth damage, since both plasmids prevented splenomegaly but only one avoided cardiomegaly, and the lesions in heart tissue of dog immunized with plasmid containing theTcSSP4gene covered only subepicardial tissue.
A Study on Ricci Dark Energy in Bulk-Brane Interaction
Authors: Chattopadhyay Surajit
Published: September 2013

We have investigated the effects of the interaction between a brane universe and the bulk in which it is embedded. Considering the effects of the interaction between a brane universe and the bulk, we have obtained the equation of state for the interacting holographic Ricci dark energy density ρΛ=3c2(H˙+2H2) in the flat universe. We have investigated the impact of c2 on the equation of state ωΛ. Also, considering the power law for of the scale factor, we have observed that nontrivial contributions of dark energy which differ from the standard matter fields confined to the brane are increasing with the evolution of the universe.
Molecular Diagnosis of Friedreich Ataxia Using Analysis of GAA Repeats and FXN Gene Exons in Population from Western India
Authors: Potdar Pravin D. , Raghu Aarthy
Published: September 2013

The diagnosis of Friedreich ataxia is based on the clinical symptoms and GAA repeats expansions. In our experience, checking FXN gene exons for mutations along with GAA repeat analysis may give better clue for its diagnosis. In the present study, total 49 suspected Friedreich ataxia patients were analyzed for GAA repeat expansion. Eleven patients have normal number of GAA repeats, thereby termed as FRDA negative patients. Thirty-eight patients showed no amplification using GAA repeat analysis. Since no conclusion was possible based on these results, these patients were designated as uninformative. We have analyzed 5 exons of the FXN gene in FRDA negative and uninformative patients to check for possible mutations. It was observed that there were no mutations found in any of FRDA negative and most uninformative patients. We further used long range PCR to check for deletion of exon 5a. It was found that 18 patients showed expression for exon 5a PCR but none in long range PCR. Five patients showed no expression for exon 5a PCR as well as long range PCR indicating that these 5 patients may be positive FRDA patients. These findings need to be correlated with clinical history of these patients for confirmation.
Catecholaminergic Gene Variants: Contribution in ADHD and Associated Comorbid Attributes in the Eastern Indian Probands
Authors: Ghosh Paramita , Sarkar Kanyakumarika , Bhaduri Nipa , Ray Anirban , Sarkar Keka , Sinha Swagata , Mukhopadhyay Kanchan
Published: September 2013

Contribution of genes in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been explored in various populations, and several genes were speculated to contribute small but additive effects. We have assessed variants in four genes, DDC (rs3837091 and rs3735273), DRD2 (rs1800496, rs1801028, and rs1799732), DRD4 (rs4646984 and rs4646983), and COMT (rs165599 and rs740603) in Indian ADHD subjects with comorbid attributes. Cases were recruited following the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders-IV-TR after obtaining informed written consent. DNA isolated from peripheral blood leukocytes of ADHD probands (N=170), their parents (N=310), and ethnically matched controls (n=180) was used for genotyping followed by population- and family-based analyses by the UNPHASED program. DRD4 sites showed significant difference in allelic frequencies by case-control analysis, while DDC and COMT exhibited bias in familial transmission (P<0.05). rs3837091 “AGAG,” rs3735273 “A,” rs1799732 “C,” rs740603 “G,” rs165599 “G” and single repeat alleles of rs4646984/rs4646983 showed positive correlation with co-morbid characteristics (P<0.05). Multi dimensionality reduction analysis of case-control data revealed significant interactive effects of all four genes (P<0.001), while family-based data showed interaction between DDC and DRD2 (P=0.04). This first study on these gene variants in Indo-Caucasoid ADHD probands and associated co-morbid conditions indicates altered dopaminergic neurotransmission in ADHD.
Radium-223 Chloride: Extending Life in Prostate Cancer Patients by Treating Bone Metastases
Authors: Wissing Michel D. , van Leeuwen Fijs W.B. , van der Pluijm Gabri , Gelderblom Hans
Published: September 2013

The treatment scope for patients with metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is rapidly expanding. On May 15, 2013, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved radium-223 chloride (223RaCl2) for the treatment of mCRPC patients whose metastases are limited to the bones. Radium-223 is an α-emitting alkaline earth metal ion, which, similar to calcium ions, accumulates in the bone. In a phase III study (ALSYMPCA), mCRPC patients with bone metastases received best standard-of-care treatment with placebo or 223RaCl2. At a prespecified interim analysis, the primary endpoint of median overall survival was significantly extended by 3.6 months in patients treated with radium-223 compared with placebo (P < 0.001). The radioisotope was well tolerated and gave limited bone marrow suppression. 223RaCl2 is the first bone-targeting antitumor therapy that received FDA approval based on a significant extended median overall survival. Further studies are required to optimize its dosing and to confirm its efficacy and safety in cancer patients. Clin Cancer Res; 19(21); 5822–7. ©2013 AACR.
Developing Democracy on Facebook through Integration of 3D Arbitration
Authors: Al Swelmiyeen Ibrahim , Al-Nuemat Ahmed , Kok Andy
Published: September 2013

The virtual social networking world, otherwise known as VSW, is described as an electronic world in which one can live in each and every single day. In this world the people who live in it are known as “netisens” as referred to by R. Johnson. These are the citizens of this new virtual world. It is a requirement that netisens should be empowered against the online “wisards” and other “online overloads” that dominate the online and virtual worlds. It is important that the virtual world be neatly integrated with the social world so as to create proper structures. This is to ensure that appropriate resolution systems are established for the social network users in order to shift power and create a balance of power between the owners and the users of this social world. An example of this for instance may be having a democratically elected parliament for Facebook.
Molecular evidence of the taxonomic status of western Mexican populations of Phaethornis longirostris (Aves: Trochilidae)
Authors: ARBELÁEZ-CORTÉS ENRIQUE , NAVARRO-SIGÜENZA ADOLFO G.
Published: September 2013

Species diversity is largely underestimated by current taxonomy, precluding a precise understanding of evolutionary processes. Genetic data have increased our understanding of that cryptic diversity, and multilocus studies are now desirable. In this study, we used mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences to evaluate the taxonomic status of the western Mexico’s populations of Phaethornis longirostris. We found differences of 4.2 % in mtDNA and different alleles for one nDNA locus between western and eastern Mexican populations. Molecular and morphological evidence support the separation of these populations (P. l. mexicanus and P. l. griseoventer) as the species Phaethornis mexicanus Hartert 1897. Phaethornis mexicanus is endemic to western Mexico and sister to the remaining populations of P. longirostris. The speciation of P. mexicanus probably occurred around 880,000 years ago by a vicariant event involving climatic-vegetational changes.
Initiation and Organizational Modes of an Extreme-Rain-Producing Mesoscale Convective System along a Mei-Yu Front in East China
Authors: Luo Yali , Gong Yu , Zhang Da-Lin
Published: September 2013

The initiation and organization of a quasi-linear extreme-rain-producing mesoscale convective system (MCS) along a mei-yu front in east China during the midnight-to-morning hours of 8 July 2007 are studied using high-resolution surface observations and radar reflectivity, and a 24-h convection-permitting simulation with the nested grid spacing of 1.11 km. Both the observations and the simulation reveal that the quasi-linear MCS forms through continuous convective initiation and organization into west–east-oriented rainbands with life spans of about 4–10 h, and their subsequent southeastward propagation. Results show that the early convective initiation at the western end of the MCS results from moist southwesterly monsoonal flows ascending cold domes left behind by convective activity that develops during the previous afternoon-to-evening hours, suggesting a possible linkage between the early morning and late afternoon peaks of the mei-yu rainfall. Two scales of convective organization are found during the MCS's development: one is the east- to northeastward “echo training” of convective cells along individual rainbands, and the other is the southeastward “band training” of the rainbands along the quasi-linear MCS. The two organizational modes are similar within the context of “training” of convective elements, but they differ in their spatial scales and movement directions. It is concluded that the repeated convective backbuilding and the subsequent echo training along the same path account for the extreme rainfall production in the present case, whereas the band training is responsible for the longevity of the rainbands and the formation of the quasi-linear MCS.
Suicidal strangulation by double ligature: A case report
Authors: Zorro AR
Published: September 2013

This article reports a self-strangulation suicide in which a double complex group of ligatures was used. Although similar cases have been referenced in forensic literature, this case is notable because of the unusual method used by the victim. A 61-year-old man was found in a locked room with a double elaborate ligature comprising six wire clothes hangers completely encircling the neck and a black rubber band in a double loop. Autopsy also documented parallel superficial cut lesions in proximal forearm interpreted as hesitation marks. It stresses the importance of characteristics such as analysis of number of ligatures, position of the knots, number of knots and turns of ligature marks and the absence of any defense and relevant internal injuries inherent to suicide ligature strangulation cases.
Hot topics in gut microbiota
Authors: Doré Joël , Simrén Magnus , Buttle Lisa , Guarner Francisco
Published: September 2013

The study of gut microbiota is a rapidly moving field of research, and the impact of gut microbial communities on human health is widely perceived as one of the most exciting advancements in biomedicine in recent years. The gut microbiota plays a key role in digestion, metabolism and immune function, and has widespread impact beyond the gastrointestinal tract. Changes in the biodiversity of the gut microbiota are associated with far reaching consequences on host health and development. Further understanding of the importance of developing and maintaining gut microbiota diversity may lead to targeted interventions for health promotion, disease prevention and management. Diet, functional foods and gut microbiota transplantation are areas that have yielded some therapeutic success in modulating the gut microbiota, and warrant further investigation of their effects on various disease states.
High clustering rates of multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosisgenotypes in Panama
Authors: Rosas Samantha , Bravo Jaime , Gonzalez Franklin , de Moreno Nora , Sanchez Joel , Gavilan Ronnie G , Goodridge Amador
Published: September 2013

Background

Tuberculosis continues to be one of the leading causes of death worldwide and in the American region. Although multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) remains a threat to TB control in Panama, few studies have focused in typing MDR-TB strains. The aim of our study was to characterize MDR Mycobacterium tuberculosis clinical isolates using PCR-based genetic markers.

Methods

From 2002 to 2004, a total of 231 Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from TB cases country-wide were screened for antibiotic resistance, and MDR-TB isolates were further genotyped by double repetitive element PCR (DRE-PCR), (GTG)5-PCR and spoligotyping.

Results

A total of 37 isolates (0.85%) were resistant to both isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF). Among these 37 isolates, only two (5.4%) were resistant to all five drugs tested. Dual genotyping using DRE-PCR and (GTG)5-PCR of MDR Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates revealed eight clusters comprising 82.9% of the MDR-TB strain collection, and six isolates (17.1%) showed unique fingerprints. The spoligotyping of MDR-TB clinical isolates identified 68% as members of the 42 (LAM9) family genotype.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that MDR Mycobacterium tuberculosis is highly clustered in Panama’s metropolitan area corresponding to Panama City and Colon City, and our study reveals the genotype distribution across the country.
Inhibition of tumor promoting signals by activation of SSTR2 and opioid receptors in human breast cancer cells
Authors: Kharmate Geetanjali , Rajput Padmesh S , Lin Yu-Chen , Kumar Ujendra
Published: September 2013

Background

Somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) and opioid receptors (ORs) belong to the superfamily of G-protein coupled receptors and function as negative regulators of cell proliferation in breast cancer. In the present study, we determined the changes in SSTR subtype 2 (SSTR2) and μ, δ and κ-ORs expression, signaling cascades and apoptosis in three different breast cancer cells namely MCF-7, MDA-MB231 and T47D.

Methods

Immunocytochemistry and western blot analysis were employed to study the colocalization and changes in MAPKs (ERK1/2 and p38), cell survival pathway (PI3K/AKT) and tumor suppressor proteins (PTEN and p53) in breast cancer cell lines. The nature of cell death upon activation of SSTR2 or OR was analysed using flow cytometry analysis.

Results

The activation of SSTR2 and ORs modulate MAPKs (ERK1/2 and p38) in cell dependent and possibly estrogen receptor (ER) dependent manner. The activation of tumor suppressor proteins phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and p53 antagonized the PI3K/AKT cell survival pathway. Flow cytometry analyses reveal increased necrosis as opposed to apoptosis in MCF-7 and T47D cells when compared to ER negative MDA-MB231 cells. Furthermore, receptor and agonist dependent expression of ORs in SSTR2 immunoprecipitate suggest that SSTR2 and ORs might interact as heterodimers and inhibit epidermal growth factor receptor phosphorylation.

Conclusion

Taken together, findings indicate a new role for SSTR2/ORs in modulation of signaling pathways involved in cancer progression and provide novel therapeutic approaches in breast cancer treatment.
Mastoidectomy and mastoid obliteration with autologous bone graft: A quality of life study
Authors: Kurien George , Greeff Kate , Gomaa Nahla , Ho Allan
Published: September 2013

Background

A mastoid cavity resulting from a canal wall down mastoidectomy can result in major morbidity for patients due to chronic otorrhea and infection, difficulty with hearing aids and vertigo with temperature changes. Mastoid obliteration with reconstruction of the bony external ear canal recreates the normal anatomy to avoid such morbidity. Few have the studied the quality of life benefit that this procedure confers.

Methods

This retrospective observational study was conducted to determine if mastoid obliteration with autologous cranial bone graft following mastoidectomy improves quality of life (QOL). Patients with cholesteatoma who had mastoidectomy with primary or secondary mastoid obliteration by a tertiary otologist were surveyed using the validated Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI), our primary outcome measure.

Results

Fifty-eight patients were interviewed. Forty-six were primary obliteration after canal wall down mastoidectomy of a primary cholesteatoma. Twelve were secondary obliteration of an existing canal wall down mastoid cavity. Overall GBI scores were improved, with average scores of 22. Average general subscale scores were 23, physical health scores were 25, and social health scores were 22. The primary obliteration group had average scores of 19, general subscale scores of 20, physical health scores of 21, and social health scores of 22. Those with secondary obliteration scored higher, with average scores of 31, general subscale scores of 34, physical health scores of 39, and social health scores of 25.

Conclusion

This study shows that mastoidectomy with obliteration using autologous cranial bone graft offers a significant QOL benefit. The GBI scores compare favourably with other otorhinolaryngology procedures. Secondary obliterations after revision mastoidectomy scored much higher than primary obliterations. This is currently the only QOL study comparing these two patient groups.
Tissue culture-induced somaclonal variation of decreased pollen viability in torenia (Torenia fournieri Lind.)
Authors: Sun ShuLan , Zhong JianQiang , Li ShuHua , Wang XiaoJing
Published: September 2013

Background

Phenotypic and genotypic variations, collectively called somaclonal variations, are induced during tissue culture.

Results

We studied the phenotypic variation in pollen viability of regenerants of torenia after subculturing for one to nine generations. We found that pollen viability of regenerants continuously decreased with increasing subculture time. High concentrations of plant growth regulators applied to the Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium also resulted in diminished pollen viability. Furthermore, antibiotic application during gene transformation also decreased pollen viability of the transformants. However, the process of long-term culture did not significantly change pollen viability. The mean methylation level of regenerants showed a 0.28% to 3.95% decrease in seedlings subcultured in vitro for nine generations. Moreover, when the ninth subcultured regenerants with reduced pollen vibility were recovered in soil to get seeds, the pollen viability of seed-derive plants was similar to that of the wild type.

Conclusions

The results show that plant growth regulators, antibiotics, and the number of subculture generations influence somaclonal variations in torenia. The somaclonal variations in torenia may results from epigenetic changes.
Characteristics and purchasing behaviours of food‐allergic consumers and those who buy food for them in Great Britain
Authors: Cochrane Stella Anne , Gowland M Hazel , Sheffield David , Crevel René Wilfrid Robert
Published: September 2013

Background

Buying behaviours of food‐allergic consumers can affect the risk they incur. An online survey was undertaken to understand the characteristics and buying behaviours of food‐allergic consumers in Great Britain (GB) and people buying food for them.

Methods

Descriptive study of food‐allergic individuals in GB and their buying behaviours, based on a survey of 500 food‐allergic consumers and 500 people buying for allergic individuals.

Results

Fruit and vegetables were the most commonly mentioned food allergens for adults, cows’ milk in school‐age children and eggs in younger children. 45% of respondents reported a formal diagnosis, almost half (48%) by a specialist. Significantly (P < 0.0001) more respondents reporting severe symptoms were likely to be formally diagnosed, but most reactions remained unreported. Nearly 2/3 of respondents always read product labels first time, however only 1/3 on every occasion. Only a third of respondents always avoided products with ‘may contain’ labels. Respondents reporting severe symptoms, albeit still a minority, showed significantly (P = 0.0026) more cautious buying behaviours.

Conclusions

Although self‐reported, the pattern of food allergy reflects other studies. A minority of food‐allergic individuals in GB, even among those reporting severe symptoms, have a formal diagnosis and most never come to the attention of health services, suggesting that food allergies are under‐estimated while more severe reactors are over‐represented in GB clinic populations. A substantial proportion of respondents regularly take risks when purchasing food including those reporting severe reactions, confirming that current application of precautionary labelling to mitigate and communicate risk is of limited effectiveness. Furthermore the failure of most food‐allergic consumers to read labels on every occasion highlights the importance of thinking beyond legal compliance when designing labels, for example when adding an allergen to a product that previously did not contain it, the change should be flagged on the front of the pack to alert allergic consumers.
Issues in the incorporation of economic perspectives and evidence into Cochrane reviews
Authors: Shemilt Ian , McDaid David , Marsh Kevin , Henderson Catherine , Bertranou Evelina , Mallander Jacqueline , Drummond Mike , Mugford Miranda , Vale Luke
Published: September 2013

Background

Methods for systematic reviews of the effects of health interventions have focused mainly on addressing the question of 'What works?’ or 'Is this intervention effective in achieving one or more specific outcomes?’ Addressing the question 'Is it worth it given the resources available?’ has received less attention. This latter question can be addressed by applying an economic lens to the systematic review process.

This paper reflects on the value and desire for the consideration by end users for coverage of an economic perspective in a Cochrane review and outlines two potential approaches and future directions.

Methods

Two frameworks to guide review authors who are seeking to include an economic perspective are outlined. The first involves conducting a full systematic review of economic evaluations that is integrated into a review of intervention effects. The second involves developing a brief economic commentary. The two approaches share a set of common stages but allow the tailoring of the economic component of the Cochrane review to the skills and resources available to the review team.

Results

The number of studies using the methods outlined in the paper is limited, and further examples are needed both to explore the value of these approaches and to further develop them. The rate of progress will hinge on the organisational leadership, capacity and resources available to the CCEMG, author teams and other Cochrane entities. Particular methodological challenges to overcome relate to understanding the key economic trade-offs and casual relationships for a given decision problem and informing the development of evaluations designed to support local decision-makers.

Conclusions

Methods for incorporating economic perspectives and evidence into Cochrane intervention reviews are established. Their role is not to provide a precise estimate of 'cost-effectiveness’ but rather to help end-users of Cochrane reviews to determine the implications of the economic components of reviews for their own specific decisions.
Independent associations of total and high molecular weight adiponectin with cardiometabolic risk and surrogate markers of enhanced early atherogenesis in black and white patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Dessein Patrick H , Woodiwiss Angela J , Norton Gavin R , Tsang Linda , Solomon Ahmed
Published: September 2013

Introduction

Whether adiponectin levels associate with atherogenesis in RA is uncertain. We examined the independent relationships of total and high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin concentrations with cardiometabolic risk and surrogate markers of enhanced early atherogenesis in black and white patients with RA.

Methods

We determined total and HMW adiponectin concentrations and those of endothelial activation molecules including soluble E-selectin, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), in 210 (119 black and 91 white) RA patients. Associations were determined in potential confounder and mediator adjusted mixed regression models.

Results

Total and HMW adiponectin concentrations related similarly to metabolic risk factors and endothelial activation. In all patients, total and HMW adiponectin concentrations associated paradoxically with high systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure (partial R = 0.155 to 0.241, P ≤0.03). Ethnic origin did not impact on these relationships (interaction P ≥0.09). Total and HMW adiponectin concentrations associated with those of glucose in white and black patients respectively (partial R = -0.304, P = 0.006 and -0.246, P = 0.01). In black but not white participants, total and HMW adiponectin concentrations also related favorably to lipid profiles (partial R = 0.292 to 0.360, P ≤0.003 for HDL cholesterol concentrations, -0.269 to -0.299, P ≤0.006 for triglyceride concentrations and -0.302 to -0.390, P ≤0.002 for total-HDL cholesterol ratio) and the number of metabolic risk factors (partial R = -0.210 to -0.238, P ≤0.03). In white but not black patients, total and HMW adiponectin concentrations associated paradoxically with overall endothelial activation as estimated by a standard z-score of endothelial activation molecule concentrations (partial R = 0.262, P = 0.01 and 0.252, P = 0.02); in the respective models, the extent of effect of total and HMW adiponectin concentrations on endothelial activation was larger in white compared to black participants (standardized β (SE) = 0.260 (0.107) versus -0.106 (0.107), P = 0.01 and 0.260 (0.120) versus -0.100 (0.111), P = 0.02). The HMW-total adiponectin ratio related inconsistently to metabolic risk factors and not to endothelial activation.

Conclusion

In this study, total and HMW adiponectin concentrations associated with increased blood pressure parameters, and in white patients additionally with endothelial activation. The potential mechanism(s) underlying these paradoxical relationships between adiponectin concentrations and cardiovascular risk in RA merit further investigation.
Vulnerability to traumatic stress in fibromyalgia patients: 19 month follow-up after the great East Japan disaster
Authors: Usui Chie , Hatta Kotaro , Aratani Satoko , Yagishita Naoko , Nishioka Kenya , Okamura Satoko , Itoh Kenji , Yamano Yoshihisa , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Asukai Nozomu , Nakajima Toshihiro , Nishioka Kusuki
Published: September 2013

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate vulnerability and long-term influence of traumatic stress caused by the Great East Japan Disaster which occurred on March 11, 2011, in patients with fibromyalgia, which is a chronic pain syndrome probably involving central sensitization.

Methods

A total of 60 female patients with fibromyalgia were compared with female patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA, n = 23) as another chronic pain disease, and with female healthy controls (HC, n = 26) in the observational study. To evaluate responses to traumatic stress, the scores of Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) were assessed one month after the disaster and every six months until 19 months after the disaster. We also evaluated levels of depression during the study period. To know the score of IES-R of patients with fibromyalgia during usual living, we assessed IES-R in another population of fibromyalgia patients without exposure to a great disaster.

Results

The mean score of IES-R one month after the disaster in the fibromyalgia group (24.6 [SD 18.9]) was significantly higher than that of RA group (13.4 [SD 14.5]) or HC group (9.1 [9.2]) (F = 9.96, p < 0.0001). However, the mean score of IES-R in fibromyalgia patients without exposure to a great disaster was (20.3 [SD 18.7]), which was almost the same value as the fibromyalgia group seven months after the disaster (20.2 [SD 19.5]). Repeated measures analysis of variance showed significant effect of time course in the depression-related symptoms (F = 6.68, P = 0.001), and a post-hoc test revealed that the number of depression-related symptoms one month before the disaster was significantly different from other time points until 19 months after the disaster, respectively.

Conclusions

Although response to acute stress induced by the great earthquake was likely to be settled within seven months after the disaster, depression-related symptoms have been increasing for more than one year after the disaster, despite exclusion of patients with major depression at baseline. This long-lasting worsening of depression-related symptoms may have been in response to chronic stress induced by the fear of radiation due to the nuclear power disaster. These findings suggest that patients with fibromyalgia are vulnerable to chronic stress rather than acute stress.