bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Tone Mapping Operators for HDR‐Video
Authors: Eilertsen Gabriel , Wanat Robert , Mantiuk Rafał K. , Unger Jonas
Published: November 2013

Eleven tone‐mapping operators intended for video processing are analyzed and evaluated with camera‐captured and computer‐generated high‐dynamic‐range content. After optimizing the parameters of the operators in a formal experiment, we inspect and rate the artifacts (flickering, ghosting, temporal color consistency) and color rendition problems (brightness, contrast and color saturation) they produce. This allows us to identify major problems and challenges that video tone‐mapping needs to address. Then, we compare the tone‐mapping results in a pair‐wise comparison experiment to identify the operators that, on average, can be expected to perform better than the others and to assess the magnitude of differences between the best performing operators.
Still‐Frame Simulation for Fire Effects of Images
Authors: Son Minjung , Kim Byungmoon , Wilensky Gregg , Lee Seungyong
Published: November 2013

We propose various simulation strategies to generate single‐frame fire effects for images, as opposed to multi‐frame fire effects for animations. To accelerate 3D simulation and to provide a user with early hints on the final effect, we propose a 2D‐guided 3D simulation approach, which runs a faster 2D simulation first, and then guides 3D simulation using the 2D simulation result. To achieve this, we explore various boundary conditions and develop a constrained projection method. Since only the final frame will be used while intermediate frames are abandoned, earlier intermediate frames can take larger time steps and have large noise applied, quickly generating turbulent flow structures. As the final frame approaches, we increase the flow quality by reducing the time step and not adding any noise. This adaptive time stepping allows us to use more computational resource near or at the final frame. We also develop divergence and buoyancy modification methods to guide flames along arbitrary, even physically implausible, directions. Our simulation methods can effectively and efficiently generate a variety of fire effects useful for image decoration.
Symmetry Robust Descriptor for Non‐Rigid Surface Matching
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Yin KangKang , Foong Kelvin W.C.
Published: November 2013

In this paper, we propose a novel shape descriptor that is robust in differentiating intrinsic symmetric points on geometric surfaces. Our motivation is that even the state‐of‐theart shape descriptors and non‐rigid surface matching algorithms suffer from symmetry flips. They cannot differentiate surface points that are symmetric or near symmetric. Hence a left hand of one human model may be matched to a right hand of another. Our Symmetry Robust Descriptor (SRD) is based on a signed angle field, which can be calculated from the gradient fields of the harmonic fields of two point pairs. Experiments show that the proposed shape descriptor SRD results in much less symmetry flips compared to alternative methods. We further incorporate SRD into a stand‐alone algorithm to minimize symmetry flips in finding sparse shape correspondences. SRD can also be used to augment other modern non‐rigid shape matching algorithms with ease to alleviate symmetry confusions.
An Efficient and Scalable Image Filtering Framework Using VIPS Fusion
Authors: Zhang J. , Chen X.H. , Zhao Y. , Li H.
Published: November 2013

Edge‐preserving image filtering is a valuable tool for a variety of applications in image processing and computer vision. Motivated by a new simple but effective local Laplacian filter, we propose a scalable and efficient image filtering framework to extend this edge‐preserving image filter and construct an uniform implementation in O (N) time. The proposed framework is built upon a practical global‐to‐local strategy. The input image is first remapped globally by a series of tentative remapping functions to generate a virtual candidate image sequence (Virtual Image Pyramid Sequence, VIPS). This sequence is then recombined locally to a single output image by a flexible edge‐aware pixel‐level fusion rule. To avoid halo artifacts, both the output image and the virtual candidate image sequence are transformed into multi‐resolution pyramid representations. Four examples, single image dehazing, multi‐exposure fusion, fast edge‐preserving filtering and tone‐mapping, are presented as the concrete applications of the proposed framework. Experiments on filtering effect and computational efficiency indicate that the proposed framework is able to build a wide range of fast image filtering that yields visually compelling results.
EnvyDepth: An Interface for Recovering Local Natural Illumination from Environment Maps
Authors: Banterle Francesco , Callieri Marco , Dellepiane Matteo , Corsini Massimiliano , Pellacini Fabio , Scopigno Roberto
Published: November 2013

In this paper, we present EnvyDepth, an interface for recovering local illumination from a single HDR environment map. In EnvyDepth, the user quickly indicates strokes to mark regions of the environment map that should be grouped together in a single geometric primitive. From these annotated strokes, EnvyDepth uses edit propagation to create a detailed collection of virtual point lights that reproduce both the local and the distant lighting effects in the original scene. When compared to the sole use of the distant illumination, the added spatial information better reproduces a variety of local effects such as shadows, highlights and caustics. Without the effort needed to create precise scene reconstructions, EnvyDepth annotations take only tens of seconds to produce a plausible lighting without visible artifacts. This is easy to obtain even in the case of complex scenes, both indoors and outdoors. The generated lighting environments work well in a production pipeline since they are efficient to use and able to produce accurate renderings.
Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and Volumes: It Depends on the Imaging Method
Authors: Wood Peter W. , Choy Jonathan B. , Nanda Navin C. , Becher Harald
Published: November 2013

Background and Methods

In order to provide guidance for using measurements of left ventricular (LV) volume and ejection fraction (LVEF) from different echocardiographic methods a PubMed review was performed on studies that reported reference values in normal populations for two‐dimensional (2D ECHO) and three‐dimensional (3D ECHO) echocardiography, nuclear imaging, cardiac computed tomography, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR). In addition all studies (2 multicenter, 16 single center) were reviewed, which included at least 30 patients, and the results compared of noncontrast and contrast 2D ECHO, and 3D ECHO with those of CMR.

Results

The lower limits for normal LVEF and the normal ranges for end‐diastolic (EDV) and end‐systolic (ESV) volumes were different in each method. Only minor differences in LVEF were found in studies comparing CMR and 2D contrast echocardiography or noncontrast 3D echocardiography. However, EDV and ESV measured with all echocardiographic methods were smaller and showed greater variability than those derived from CMR. Regarding agreement with CMR and reproducibility, all studies showed superiority of contrast 2D ECHO over noncontrast 2D ECHO and 3D ECHO over 2D ECHO. No final judgment can be made about the comparison between contrast 2D ECHO and noncontrast or contrast 3D ECHO.

Conclusion

Contrast 2D ECHO and noncontrast 3D ECHO show good reproducibility and good agreement with CMR measurements of LVEF. The agreement of volumes is worse. Further studies are required to assess the clinical value of contrast 3D ECHO as noncontrast 3D ECHO is only reliable in patients with good acoustic windows.
Spiral Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy as Detected by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Amin Nessim , Williams Ronald B. , Yarmozik June A. , Biederman Robert W.W.
Published: November 2013

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetically determined heart muscle disease; characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy. Spiral HCM is described as having a counterclockwise rotation pattern of hypertrophy along with variable degrees of fibrosis. A 34‐year‐old female presented with symptoms suggestive of heart failure. Echocardiography showed concentric left ventricular hypertrophy with normal contractility. Cardiac MRI showed asymmetric septal hypertrophy with mid‐cavity obliteration and a spiral pattern of variably increasing wall thickness. Late gadolinium enhancement demonstrated several areas of abnormal post‐gadolinium uptake. We report a case of spiral HCM. We should consider cardiovascular magnetic resonance as the reference standard for diagnosing HCM.
The Pyramid of Danger: The Value of TEE in Detecting Risk of Aortic Perforation during TAVI
Authors: Sirker Alexander , Byrne Jonathan , Monaghan Mark
Published: November 2013

Mini‐Abstract

An 87‐year‐old man undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for severe aortic stenosis was noted to have bulky calcification of the noncoronary aortic cusp, extending into the corresponding sinus, on transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). During balloon valvuloplasty, TEE demonstrated displacement of this calcium into the aortic wall, producing a distinctive pyramidal indentation and indicating threatened focal aortic perforation. Importantly, this hazard was not evident on corresponding x‐ray cine‐angiography and emphasizes the value of TEE in guiding TAVI procedures. This information allowed alteration in deployment technique for the TAVI valve and forewarned the team to increased risk of a major hazard at this stage.
Ruptured Anterior Mitral Leaflet Aneurysm in Aortic Valve Infective Endocarditis—Evaluation by Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography
Authors: Kharwar Rajiv Bharat , Mohanty Abhisekh , Sharma Akhil , Narain Varun Shankar , Sethi Rishi
Published: November 2013

Ruptured aneurysm of the anterior mitral leaflet is a rare but a devastating complication secondary to aortic valve infective endocarditis. We report a case of 30‐year‐old male with native aortic valve endocarditis who was referred to us for evaluation of worsening of heart failure after an initial period of responsiveness to antibiotics. Detailed evaluation with two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography revealed ruptured anterior mitral leaflet aneurysm with severe eccentric mitral regurgitation along with a large vegetation on the aortic valve. The patient underwent successful surgical closure of the defect along with aortic valve replacement.
Atrial Dissection‐Like Appearance Caused by an Inferior Sinus Venosus Atrial Septal Defect with an Unroofed Defect
Authors: Gul Murat , Ozeke Ozcan , Canpolat Ugur , Temizer Orkun , Golbasi Zehra , Tufekcioglu Omac
Published: November 2013

Mini‐Abstract

Atrial dissection is an uncommon entity and is generally associated with mitral valve interventions. However, atrial dissection‐like appearance has been also reported and atrial dissection might be considered as an important differential diagnosis. We present the interesting image of a left atrial dissection‐like appearance, which was actually caused by a dilated unroofed coronary sinus (CS) with inferior sinus venosus (SV)‐type atrial septal defect (ASD).Unexplained volume overload of right‐sided chambers should prompt for careful evaluation for SV type of ASD (superior or inferior), unroofed CS type of ASD, and partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage.
The Political Economy of Domestic Labor Mobility: Specific Factors, Landowners, and Education
Authors: Pennock Andrew
Published: November 2013

Political actors today seek to influence labor mobility via education just as they have for centuries. Landowners in countries with large industrial sectors attempt to suppress education levels to maintain their labor supply, as educated workers are able to move into industrial work more easily than uneducated workers. However, the relationship between large landowners and education is more complex than has been previously theorized. Using a specific‐factors model, I show that large landowners in countries with little economic development actually have an incentive to increase education levels. They realize the returns of an educated workforce without fearing their mobility because competing industrial opportunities for the workers do not exist. In either case, the ability of landowners to achieve their political goals is a function of their ability to overcome the collective action problem and effectively influence the state's provision of education. Powerful landowners successfully deny education in industrialized countries and provide it in agricultural countries. An analysis of panel data covering 77 countries from 1975 to 2000 confirms the conditional nature of the relationship.
A one‐step, single tube, duplex PCR to detect predation by native predators on invasive Bemisia tabaci MEAM1 and Frankliniella occidentalis
Authors: Zhang Gui‐Fen , Wu Xia , Zhou Zhi‐Xiang , Meng Xiang‐Qin , Wan Fang‐Hao
Published: November 2013

Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) MEAM1 (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) and Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), two important invasive species, are serious agricultural pests. In this study, a one‐step, single tube, duplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) procedure was developed to allow rapid, specific, and sensitive identification of B. tabaci MEAM1 and F. occidentalis in predator guts. The system and conditions used for the duplex PCR were optimized. The species specificity of the duplex PCR determined by comparison against non‐targets that might interact with B. tabaci MEAM1 and F. occidentalis showed that oligonucleotide primers amplified nuclear gene target sequences present only in B. tabaci MEAM1 or F. occidentalis. The limits of detection were 9.53 ng μl−1 for B. tabaci MEAM1 and 8.94 ng μl−1 for F. occidentalis. Within a field cage study, in which predators Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and Orius sauteri (Poppius) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) were allowed to feed on B. tabaci MEAM1 and F. occidentalis for 10 h, the B. tabaci MEAM1 DNA was detectable in 100% of H. axyridis and O. sauteri, and F. occidentalis DNA was detectable in 80% of H. axyridis and 90% of O. sauteri; this implicated that B. tabaci MEAM1 and F. occidentalis remains could be detected in native predator guts simultaneously. The accuracy and reliability of the assay suggested strongly that the duplex PCR optimized for B. tabaci MEAM1 and F. occidentalis is sensitive and specific for both invasive insects and is therefore useful in early diagnosis and monitoring of B. tabaci MEAM1 and F. occidentalis infections, and can be used to identify domestic predator species and food web relationships.
Laparoscopically‐assisted ovariohysterectomy in three mares with pyometra
Authors: Woodford N. S. , Payne R. J. , McCluskie L. K.
Published: November 2013

Open surgical ovariohysterectomy in the mare provides limited visualisation and a long surgical incision. Laparoscopically‐assisted ovariohysterectomy has been performed by the authors in 3 mares with pyometra. This approach does seem to offset some of these disadvantages.
Direct detection of neuropeptide dynorphin A binding to the second extracellular loop of the κ opioid receptor using a soluble protein scaffold
Authors: Björnerås Johannes , Kurnik Martin , Oliveberg Mikael , Gräslund Astrid , Mäler Lena , Danielsson Jens
Published: November 2013

The molecular determinants for selectivity of ligand binding to membrane receptors are of key importance for the understanding of cellular signalling, as well as for rational therapeutic intervention. In the present study, we target the interaction between the κ opioid receptor (KOR) and its native peptide ligand dynorphin A (DynA) using solution state NMR spectroscopy, which is generally made difficult by the sheer size of membrane bound receptors. Our method is based on ‘transplantation’ of an extracellular loop of KOR into a ‘surrogate’ scaffold; in this case, a soluble β‐barrel. Our results corroborate the general feasibility of the method, showing that the inserted receptor segment has negligible effects on the properties of the scaffold protein, at the same time as maintaining an ability to bind its native DynA ligand. Upon DynA binding, only small induced chemical shift changes of the KOR loop were observed, whereas chemical shift changes of DynA and NMR paramagnetic relaxation data show conclusively that the peptide interacts with the inserted loop. The binding interface is composed of a disordered part of the KOR loop and involves both electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions. Even so, simultaneous effects along the DynA sequence upon binding show that control of the recognition is a concerted event.
Bioprecipitation: a feedback cycle linking Earth history, ecosystem dynamics and land use through biological ice nucleators in the atmosphere
Authors: Morris Cindy E. , Conen Franz , Alex Huffman J. , Phillips Vaughan , Pöschl Ulrich , Sands David C.
Published: November 2013

Landscapes influence precipitation via the water vapor and energy fluxes they generate. Biologically active landscapes also generate aerosols containing microorganisms, some being capable of catalyzing ice formation and crystal growth in clouds at temperatures near 0 °C. The resulting precipitation is beneficial for the growth of plants and microorganisms. Mounting evidence from observations and numerical simulations support the plausibility of a bioprecipitation feedback cycle involving vegetated landscapes and the microorganisms they host. Furthermore, the evolutionary history of ice nucleation‐active bacteria such as Pseudomonas syringae supports that they have been part of this process on geological time scales since the emergence of land plants. Elucidation of bioprecipitation feedbacks involving landscapes and their microflora could contribute to appraising the impact that modified landscapes have on regional weather and biodiversity, and to avoiding inadvertent, negative consequences of landscape management.
Chronic nutrient enrichment increases prevalence and severity of coral disease and bleaching
Authors: Vega Thurber Rebecca L. , Burkepile Deron E. , Fuchs Corinne , Shantz Andrew A. , McMinds Ryan , Zaneveld Jesse R.
Published: November 2013

Nutrient loading is one of the strongest drivers of marine habitat degradation. Yet, the link between nutrients and disease epizootics in marine organisms is often tenuous and supported only by correlative data. Here, we present experimental evidence that chronic nutrient exposure leads to increases in both disease prevalence and severity and coral bleaching in scleractinian corals, the major habitat‐forming organisms in tropical reefs. Over 3 years, from June 2009 to June 2012, we continuously exposed areas of a coral reef to elevated levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. At the termination of the enrichment, we surveyed over 1200 scleractinian corals for signs of disease or bleaching. Siderastrea siderea corals within enrichment plots had a twofold increase in both the prevalence and severity of disease compared with corals in unenriched control plots. In addition, elevated nutrient loading increased coral bleaching; Agaricia spp. of corals exposed to nutrients suffered a 3.5‐fold increase in bleaching frequency relative to control corals, providing empirical support for a hypothesized link between nutrient loading and bleaching‐induced coral declines. However, 1 year later, after nutrient enrichment had been terminated for 10 months, there were no differences in coral disease or coral bleaching prevalence between the previously enriched and control treatments. Given that our experimental enrichments were well within the ranges of ambient nutrient concentrations found on many degraded reefs worldwide, these data provide strong empirical support to the idea that coastal nutrient loading is one of the major factors contributing to the increasing levels of both coral disease and coral bleaching. Yet, these data also suggest that simple improvements to water quality may be an effective way to mitigate some coral disease epizootics and the corresponding loss of coral cover in the future.
Effect of a hydrogen (H2)‐enriched solution on the albumin redox of hemodialysis patients
Authors: Terawaki Hiroyuki , Zhu Wan‐Jun , Matsuyama Yukie , Terada Tomoyoshi , Takahashi Yasuhito , Sakurai Kaoru , Kabayama Shigeru , Miyazaki Mariko , Itami Noritomo , Nakazawa Ryoichi , Ito Sadayoshi , Era Seiichi , Nakayama Masaaki
Published: November 2013

Elevated oxidative stress (OS) is associated with severe cardiovascular disease and premature death among patients treated with hemodialysis (HD). Oxidative stress is enhanced by contact between blood and dialysis membranes during HD sessions. This study aimed to clarify whether hydrogen (H2), which is a known antioxidant, is capable of suppressing increased OS induced during HD sessions. Eight patients on regular HD treatment were studied. Two HD sessions were performed in a cross‐over design trial using standard and hydrogen‐enriched solutions (mean of 50 p.p.b. H2; H2‐HD). Blood samples were obtained from the inlet and outlet of the dialyzer during HD to determine changes in plasma levels of glutathione, hydrogen peroxide, and albumin redox state as a marker of OS. Comparison of inlet and outlet blood revealed significant decreases in total glutathione and reduced glutathione, as well as significant increases in hydrogen peroxide in both HD treatments. However, the mean proportion of reversibly oxidized albumin in outlet serum was significantly lower than that in inlet serum following the H2‐HD session, whereas no significant changes were found in the standard solution session, suggesting that “intra‐dialyzer” OS is reduced by H2‐HD. In conclusion, the application of H2‐enriched solutions could ameliorate OS during HD.
Touching God in his Image
Authors: Moyaert Paul
Published: November 2013

The essay defends praying with images (icons) against those who claim this type of prayer is objectionable. The hermeneutical defence consists of three arguments. (a) First I observe that people relate to ordinary photos in ways that cannot be explained in terms of the image's sign‐value (or similitude) alone. (b) Second, I develop an account of praying with images as a form of symbolic practice. (c) Finally, in order to bolster my account, I compare icons with a particular class of symbolic objects, viz. relics. The general idea I put forward is that icons have to be understood as expressions of the reality they represent, and not simply as accurate or inaccurate visual representations of that reality. Icons are not created by human hands; instead, the hand of the painter is the instrumental cause of God's self‐expression, via the painter, on the canvas.
“Inequalities of Children in Original Endowment”: How Intelligence Testing Transformed Early Special Education in a North American City School System
Authors: Ellis Jason
Published: November 2013

“There are few if any more significant events in modern educational history than the developments which have recently taken place in methods of mental measurement,” Lewis Terman wrote in 1923 about the intelligence testing movement he did so much to pioneer in American schools throughout the 1920s. Indeed educational historians, particularly Paul Chapman, have shown that the rise of intelligence testing provoked large and relatively swift changes in public education, enabling school systems to sort and stream their students by ability on an unprecedented scale. “By 1930,” Chapman writes, “both intelligence testing and ability grouping had become central features of the educational system.” Less often talked about are the effects of intelligence testing and the concept of intelligence quotient (IQ) on early special education classes, and on the pupils who attended them. In fact, Terman recognized the significance of IQ testing to special education as well. In 1919, he wrote that IQ tests would help to turn the existing logic of learning problems on its head by proving that “the retardation problem is exactly the reverse of what it is popularly supposed to be.”
Preparation and optimization of soy protein isolate–high methoxy pectin microcapsules loaded with Lactobacillus delbrueckii
Authors: Sun Qingshen , Wang Fuying , Han Dequan , Zhao Yao , Liu Zhidong , Lei Hong , Song Yong , Huang Xue , Li Xiaodi , Ma Anyun , Yuan Guangyu , Li Xueru , Yang Zaili
Published: November 2013

This study was aimed to use soy protein isolate (SPI) and high methoxy pectin (HMP) as encapsulating materials for probiotic bacterial (Lactobacillus delbrueckii) delivery systems. The encapsulation conditions were optimised, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to characterise the microstructural changes of the microcapsule. The results showed that the optimal conditions for microcapsule preparation were 90 mg mL−1 SPI and 1 mg mL−1 HMP, with a SPI/HMP ratio of 7:1 (v/v), and a L. delbrueckii suspension to SPI–HMP complex ratio of 1:1 (v/v). The viability of the probiotics in the microcapsules reaching the small intestine was 3 log CFU mL−1 higher than that of naked bacteria. SEM showed that the surface of the SPI–HMP compound microcapsules was smooth and that a large number of L. delbrueckii could be seen in cross‐sections of the microcapsules.
Evaluation of a peer‐led self‐management education programme PEP Talk: Diabetes, Healthy Feet and You
Authors: Woodbury M. Gail , Botros Mariam , Kuhnke Janet L. , Greene Julie
Published: November 2013

PEP (Peer Education Programme) Talk: Diabetes, Healthy Feet and You is a peer‐led self‐management programme developed to address the problems of growing prevalence of diabetes and its complications, and limited health care dollars. An evaluation of the programme, how it might be situated within a public health perspective and potential bridges for its implementation in communities throughout Canada and worldwide, are presented. The programme consisted of workshops that were conducted by volunteer peer leaders and health care professionals in 12 communities in 10 Canadian provinces; the volunteers were supported through monthly mentoring teleconferences, on‐line tips and discussion board conversations. A web portal was developed to be used by the team, volunteers and community participants. Workshop curriculum was developed based on diabetes footcare and self‐management best practise guidelines. Community participants answered pre‐and post‐workshop statements that indicated that learning occurred, as indicated by an increase in the number of statements answered correctly. Participants' feedback about the workshops was positive. In telephone follow‐up interviews, 97% of respondents reported having changed their foot self‐management behaviours. The portal was commonly used according to website visits, but not as much as expected for registration of community participants. It is recommended that this programme be made widely available and tailored to the specific needs of the communities and that further evaluation be conducted.
A call for an end to calls for the end of invasion biology
Authors: Simberloff Daniel , Vitule Jean R. S.
Published: November 2013

Calls for the end of invasion biology are misguided. There is no evidence that modern invasion biology has progressed slowly in its short life. Although some aspects of biological invasions fit comfortably in the framework of ecological succession, many others do not. Some native species, particularly in the wake of various anthropogenic impacts, behave like invasive non‐native species, but the probability and degree of harmful impact are greater for non‐native than for native species. Neither native nor non‐native species suffer lack of attention and research by virtue of the fact that invasion biology focuses on the latter. Basing management solely on current observed impact is highly risky because impacts may be subtle but nonetheless important, and impacts often change, as they are contingent on the physical or biotic environment. The known harmful impacts of many non‐native species suggest that recent introductions warrant attention even if impacts are not evident. Neither is the focus of modern invasion biology on non‐native species motivated by xenophobia. Rather, it reflects the recognition of their likelihood of harmful impact. A related call for the end of traditional restoration ecology shares many features with calls to terminate invasion biology, not least because management of invasive non‐native species is a key component of restoration ecology. Such species are a dominant element in generating the ‘novel ecosystems’ that are said to render traditional restoration ecology obsolete. The argument that both invasion management and traditional restoration are largely futile endeavors is contradicted by substantial and growing successes in both fields.
Influence of breastfeeding on blood‐cell transcript‐based biomarkers of health in children
Authors: Priego T. , Sánchez J. , Picó C. , Ahrens W. , Bammann K. , De Henauw S. , Fraterman A. , Iacoviello L. , Lissner L. , Molnár D. , Moreno L. A. , Siani A. , Tornaritis M. , Veidebaum T. , Palou A. ,   IDEFICS Consortium
Published: November 2013

What is already known about this subject

The expression of specific genes in peripheral blood cells (PBCs) may be used as biomarkers of the metabolic status.

High levels of expression of CPT1A, SLC27A2, INSR, LEPR, FASN and PPARα in PBCs are indicative of a lower risk for the insulin resistant or dyslipidaemic state associated with obesity in children.

Breastfeeding seems to confer protective effects against obesity and its related metabolic problems.

What this study adds

Children who had been breastfed showed higher expression levels of SLC27A2, FASN, PPARα and INSR in PBCs compared with formula‐fed subjects.

The relationship of the PBC transcript levels of SLC27A2, INSR, FASN and PPARα with insulin resistance and dyslipidaemia may be dependent on the type of infant feeding (breast vs. formula).

The transcript levels of the mentioned biomarkers could be useful to distinguish the formula‐fed children who are at higher risk of metabolic alterations.

Background

Blood‐cell transcripts have showed to be good biomarkers of metabolic alterations and their use in early detection and prevention of future disorders is promising.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the relation between previously proposed transcriptional biomarkers of metabolic health (SLC27A2, CPT1A, FASN, PPARα, INSR, LEPR) in peripheral blood cells and the type of infant feeding in a subset of children from the IDEFICS (Identification and Prevention of Dietary‐ and Lifestyle‐Induced Health Effects in Children and Infants) cohort.

Subjects

A total of 237 children aged 2–9 years from eight European countries were studied.

Results

Breastfed children showed higher expression levels of SLC27A2, FASN, PPARα and INSR, and lower risk of being overweight and of having high plasma triglyceride levels vs. formula‐fed children. Besides, overweight formula‐fed children presented higher HOMA‐index than overweight breastfed children (1.90 vs. 1.62); however, this negative effect was absent in formula‐fed children with high expression of SLC27A2. Moreover, formula‐fed children with low expression of SLC27A2, FASN, PPARα and INSR presented higher triglyceride levels than subjects with high expression of these genes (77.7 mg dL−1 vs. 44.8 mg dL−1). This difference was absent in breastfed children.

Conclusions

Protective effects of breastfeeding are reflected in higher expression levels of SLC27A2, FASN, PPARα and INSR in blood cells. These biomarkers may also serve to discriminate the formula‐fed children that are at higher risk of metabolic alterations.
Baroreflex Sensitivity, Vascular Risk Factors, and Cognitive Function in a Healthy Elderly Population: The PROOF Cohort
Authors: Saint Martin Magali , Sforza Emilia , Thomas‐Anterion Catherine , Barthélémy Jean Claude , Roche Frédéric ,   The PROOF Study Group
Published: November 2013

Objectives

To assess the role of the cardiac autonomic nervous system (ANS), as measured according to spontaneous cardiac baroreflex sensitivity (BRS), in the type and degree of cognitive performance in healthy young‐elderly individuals, taking into account the presence of other vascular risk factors.

Design

Community‐based cross‐sectional study.

Setting

In‐home and clinical settings.

Participants

A subset of participants, aged 66.9 ± 0.9, from a prospective study that aimed to assess the influence of ANS activity on cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality (N = 916).

Measurements

All subjects underwent a clinical interview, neuropsychological testing, and autonomic and vascular measurements. Three cognitive domains were defined: attentional (Trail‐Making Test Part A, Stroop code and parts I & II), executive (Trail‐Making Test Part B, Stroop part III, verbal fluency and similarity tests), and memory (Benton visual retention test, Grober and Buschké procedure). Subjects were stratified according to their scores into normal, low, and impaired performers.

Results

After adjustments to demographic and vascular data, participants with moderate autonomic dysregulation (3 < BRS ≤ 6) were determined to be 1.82 times as likely to have memory impairment (odds ratio (OR) = 1.82, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.13–3.17, P = .02) and those with severe autonomic dysregulation (BRS ≤ 3) to be 2.65 as likely (OR = 2.65, 95% CI = 1.40–5.59, P = .006) as participants with normal BRS (>6).

Conclusion

In older individuals without dementia, autonomic dysregulation seems to have a direct, gradual, and independent effect on memory. Future studies are needed to evaluate the long‐term effects of BRS and other markers of the ANS on cognitive decline.
Clinical Outcomes of Cataract Surgery in Very Elderly Adults
Authors: Lai Frank H. P. , Lok Julie Y. C. , Chow Prudence P. C. , Young Alvin L.
Published: November 2013

Objectives

To investigate the clinical outcomes of cataract surgery elderly adults.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Two clustered hospitals.

Participants

Two hundred seven individuals aged 90 and older who underwent cataract surgery for primary senile cataracts.

Measurements

Best‐corrected preoperative and postoperative Snellen visual acuity, type of cataract, surgical techniques, preoperative systemic or ocular comorbidities, and intraoperative and postoperative complications were assessed. Improvement of visual acuity was defined as a decrease in logMAR acuity of 0.1. Factors associated with visual outcome within 6 months after surgery were identified using logistic regression modeling. The duration of postoperative survival was calculated.

Results

In the 207 participants (mean age 92.0 ± 2.1), 79.7% achieved visual improvement after cataract surgery. Forty‐eight percent (mean age 97.4 ± 2.8) were alive on December 31, 2012. The most common systemic comorbidities were hypertension (66.2%), diabetes mellitus (25.1%), and myocardial infarction (19.8%). Age‐related macular degeneration (AMRD) (15.9%), glaucoma (10.6%), and myopic degeneration (5.3%) were the three most common ocular comorbidities. Uncomplicated cataract surgery was performed in 87.0% cases. The most common complications were vitreous loss (8.2%), posterior capsular rupture (7.2%), and zonular rupture (4.8%). Participants with AMRD (P = .001, odds ratio (OR) = 4.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.86–12.26) and vitreous loss (P = .001, OR = 12.86, 95% CI = 2.71–61.10) were less likely to achieve postoperative visual improvement.

Conclusion

Despite a high prevalence of systemic and ocular comorbidities in very elderly adults, good clinical outcomes of cataract surgery were attainable. ARMD and vitreous loss were associated with a lower chance of postoperative visual improvement.
Family well‐being in a participant‐directed autism waiver program: the role of relational coordination
Authors: Warfield M. E. , Chiri G. , Leutz W. N. , Timberlake M.
Published: November 2013

Background

Massachusetts is one of a very limited number of states exclusively employing participant‐direction to deliver autism waiver services to children. A crucial element of this waiver program is the work conducted by the state's Department of Developmental Services (DDS) staff and state‐approved providers with waiver families to facilitate the implementation of the participant‐direction model. Our study investigates the effect of the collaboration between state providers and family caregivers on family well‐being.

Methods

We conducted a survey of 74 families who have been utilising waiver services for at least 6 months. Participants were asked to rate the coordination with providers as well as to report on parenting stress and impact of waiver services on family functioning. Data from in‐home child and family assessments conducted by the state were also abstracted from program records.

Results

After controlling for a host of variables hypothesised to affect the outcomes of interest, we found that the family's view of how well they coordinated with formal providers is significantly associated all of the outcomes. Families who reported greater coordination with state providers experienced lower parenting stress and reported a more positive impact on family functioning. Child externalising behavioural problems and caregiver's health rating also contributed to parenting stress and family functioning.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the importance of establishing a collaborative partnership with waiver families in promoting family well‐being. These results suggest that training and/or resources that foster team building and communication can positively impact family functioning among families with young children with autism.
Anaphylactoid reaction after use of intracervical dinoprostone gel
Authors: Vaidya Madhuri , Ghike Sunita , Jain Sheela
Published: November 2013

Anaphylactic‐like reaction or anaphylactoid reaction resembles generalized anaphylaxis but is not caused by immunoglobulin E‐mediated allergic reaction. This reaction is caused by a non‐immunologic mechanism even after first exposure to antigen. Prostaglandin E2 (dinoprostone) gel is commonly used for pre‐induction cervical ripening. We report a case of anaphylactiod reaction after insertion of prostaglandin E2 gel for induction of labor. Hyperstimulation with dinoprostone gel is reported in the literature. An isolated report of three cases of anaphylactiod reaction after intracervical dinoprostone gel was found during a literature search. We are reporting this case for its rarity. As a potentially life‐threatening condition, every obstetrician should be aware of this rare complication of dinoprostone gel.
Comparative analysis of laparoscopy versus laparotomy in the management of ovarian cyst during pregnancy
Authors: Chen Limei , Ding Jingxin , Hua Keqin
Published: November 2013

Aim

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the surgical and obstetric results of laparoscopy versus laparotomy in the management of ovarian cyst during pregnancy.

Material and Methods

Sixty‐nine eligible patients who met our criteria were randomly divided into the laparoscopy group (n = 33) and the laparotomy group (n = 36). The two groups were compared for their surgical and obstetric outcomes and the extent of pelvic adhesion discovered in later cesarean section (CS).

Results

The laparoscopy group had less blood loss (43 ± 15 vs 51 ± 13 mL, P = 0.02), shorter postoperative hospital stay (2.9 ± 0.5 vs 5.8 ± 0.6 days, P < 0.001), and lower postoperative pain score (2.7 ± 1.2 vs 5.9 ± 1.5, P < 0.001) compared with the laparotomy group. The operative time, neonates' Apgar scores and birthweights between the two groups showed no significant differences (P > 0.05). Sixteen patients in the laparoscopy group, and 15 patients in the laparotomy group underwent cesarean section. The filmy and dense type adhesion rate was significantly different between the laparoscopy group and the laparotomy group (6.25% vs 53.3%, and 0% vs 20%, respectively).

Conclusions

The present results suggest that laparoscopy is a better choice than laparotomy for ovarian cyst during pregnancy, with less blood loss, less postoperative pain and less postoperative hospital stay. It offers a faster recovery, results in less pelvic adhesion and does not affect the fetus; however, studies encompassing larger numbers of cases are needed.
Bifid scrotum and anocutaneous fistula associated with a perineal lipomatous tumor complicated by temporary bilateral cryptorchidism in utero mimicking ambiguous genitalia: 2‐D/3‐D fetal ultrasonography
Authors: Inde Yusuke , Terada Yusuke , Ikegami Ei , Sekiguchi Atsuko , Nakai Akihito , Takeshita Toshiyuki
Published: November 2013

Ambiguous genitalia (AG) is a morphological diagnosis defined as genitalia not typical of a male or female. Findings mimicking AG, such as penoscrotal anomalies, anorectal malformations, and perineal lipomatous tumors, may prevent accurate identification of the fetal sex. We report a case of bifid scrotum and anocutaneous fistula associated with a perineal lipomatous tumor complicated by temporary bilateral cryptorchidism in utero, which were findings mimicking AG. Several perineal anomalies are associated developmental occurrences. In the present case, the combination of bifid scrotum and temporary bilateral cryptorchidism in the male fetus mimicked the combination of clitoromegaly and prominent labia, which are commonly observed in female fetuses. However, serial systemic assessments using prenatal 2‐D/3‐D ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging were unable to detect the anocutaneous fistula and differentiate the perineal lipomatous tumor. This case report suggests that the prenatal detection of perineal abnormalities may warn obstetricians of potentially undetected congenital perineal anomalies.
Poor prognosis of ovarian cancer with large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma: Case report and review of published works
Authors: Asada Kayo , Kawana Kei , Teshima Shinichi , Saito Ako , Kawabata Masakiyo , Fujii Tomoyuki
Published: November 2013

Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) is well‐reported to result in unfavorable prognoses in many organ cancers while being rarely reported in gynecologic cancer, especially ovarian and endometrial cancers. Here we report a case of ovarian cancer with LCNEC which spread to distant organs within 1 year of primary surgery despite the fact that the post‐surgical stage was Ia. The case received platinum‐based chemotherapy as an adjuvant therapy after her curative surgery. However, LCNEC in the case was resistant to the chemotherapy. In our review of published works, ovarian cancer cases with LCNEC show poor prognoses regardless of adjuvant chemotherapy following complete resection. Median overall survival was 10 months in stage I cases. Development of chemotherapy sensitive for LCNEC is needed.
Does lactation protect mothers against metabolic syndrome? Findings from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Ramezani Tehrani Fahimeh , Momenan Amir Abbas , Bahri Khomami Mahnaz , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: November 2013

Aim

We aimed to explore the effect of lactation on development of metabolic syndrome in a prospective population‐based study.

Methods

From among 4028 female participants of the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study, aged 15–50 years, without metabolic syndrome at the initiation of the study, 925 women were randomly selected to fill out the lactation questionnaire. Women were assigned to five groups based on lactation duration including: none, 1–6 months, 7–12 months, 13–23 months and 24 months or more. Over a 9‐year follow‐up, metabolic syndrome was compared between these groups, before and after adjustment for possible confounding variables.

Results

Metabolic syndrome was developed in 12.1% of non‐lactating women; it was 28.6%, 34.0%, 26.2% and 26.7% in women with 1–6, 7–12, 13–23 and 24 months or more of lifetime duration of lactation, respectively (P < 0.002). Adjustment for confounders revealed that women with 1–6 and 7–12 months of duration of lactation had significantly higher odds of metabolic syndrome in comparison to 24 months or more (1.4 and 1.3 times, respectively).

Conclusion

It seems that the longer duration of lactation up to 12 months may protect women against metabolic syndrome, in a dose–response manner.
Survival and prognostic factors of patients with primary fallopian tube cancer receiving adjuvant paclitaxel and carboplatin chemotherapy
Authors: Kietpeerakool Chumnan , Srisomboon Jatupol , Phongsaranantakul Supareuk , Khunamornpong Surapan , Cheewakriangkrai Chalong , Sribanditmongkol Narisa
Published: November 2013

Aim

To determine the survival and prognostic factors of patients with primary fallopian tube cancer (PFTC) who had been treated with paclitaxel and carboplatin chemotherapy.

Methods

The records of patients with PFTC who had been treated between 2002 and 2010, identified through the report of Chiang Mai University Hospital, were reviewed. All patients had pathological materials initially reported or reviewed by a gynecologic pathologist before initiation of treatment.

Results

Thirty patients met the inclusion criteria. Median age was 51 years. Serous adenocarcinoma was observed in the majority of patients (76.7%). Approximately 46% of patients were in stage I–II. The 5‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) for all patients was 37.2%. The 5‐year PFS was 75.0% for stage I, 51.4% for stage II and 18.5% for stage III. Median PFS of the entire cohort was 26.0 months with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 18.7–33.3 months. This rate was 18.5 months (95% CI, 6.7–35.6) for stage III whereas it was not reached for patients of stage I–II. Serous histology and stage were noted to be significant independent predictors of PFS with an adjusted hazards ratio of 7.54 (95% CI, 1.34–42.4) and 6.19 (95% CI, 1.59–24.08), respectively.

Conclusion

The 5‐year PFS of the whole cohort was 37.2% with a median survival of 26 months. International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage and histological subtype were a significant independent factor for predicting PFS.