bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of Anticoagulant Treatment in Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Kaya Hasan , Ertaş Faruk , Köroğlu Bayram , Vatan Bülent , Çağlıyan Çağlar Emre , Gedik Selçuk , Yeter Ekrem , Aydin Mesut , Akil Mehmet Ata , Soydinç Mehmet Serdar , Ozhan Hakan , Ülgen Mehmet Sıddık ,   for the AFTER Investigators
Published: June 2013

The aim of the study was to assess the factors associated with the anticoagulation treatment in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). A total of 2242 consecutive patients who had been admitted with AF on their electrocardiogram were included in the study. After excluding valvular AF, 1745 patients with nonvalvular AF were analyzed. Mean CHA2DS2-VASc score [cardiac failure, hypertension, age ≥ 75 (doubled), diabetes, stroke (doubled), vascular disease, age 65 -74 and sex category (female)], frequency of persistent/permanent AF, hypertension, diabetes mellitus (DM), stroke history, body mass index, and left atrial diameter were significantly higher in patients receiving anticoagulant therapy. Stroke history, persistent/permanent AF, hypertension, DM, age, heart failure, and left atrial diameter were independent predictors of warfarin prescription. Labile international normalized ratio was the only independent negative predictor of effective treatment with warfarin. In this study, we demonstrated that stroke history, persistent/permanent AF, hypertension, DM, and left atrial diameter were positive predictors, whereas advanced age and heart failure were negative predictors of oral anticoagulant use in patients with nonvalvular AF.
The Relationship of Acute Myocardial Infarction With or Without ST-Segment Elevation and Viscosity
Authors: Kul Ayse Nilgun , Ozdemir Semra , Helvaci Aysen , Bulut Cengiz , Dursun Sefik
Published: June 2013

We compared hemorheological parameters in 42 male patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), with (n = 22) or without (n = 20) ST-segment elevation and in 20 controls. Plasma and blood viscosity (cP), plasma protein (g/dL) and fibrinogen (mg/dL) concentrations, red (106/µL) and white (103/µL) blood cell counts, hemoglobin concentration (g/dL), and hematocrit (%) were compared. Plasma viscosity was significantly higher in patients with AMI with ( P = .012) and without ( P = .046) ST-segment elevation than in controls. Patients with AMI with and without ST-segment elevation had significantly lower albumin ( P = .002 and P = .009) and globulin ( P = .001 and P = .007) concentrations, red blood cell counts ( P = .0001 and P = .004), and hematocrit ( P = .014 and P = .040) and significantly higher fibrinogen concentrations ( P = .0001 and P = .001) than controls. These findings suggest that AMI in males is associated with increased plasma viscosity and fibrinogen concentrations and with decreased albumin and globulin concentrations, erythrocyte count, and hematocrit, regardless of ST-segment elevation.
The Influence of Plaintiff Gender on the Judicial Decision to Grant Civil Restraining Orders
Authors: Kingsnorth Rodney F. , Wolcott Lynne , Lonnquist Kaitlyn
Published: June 2013

Our knowledge of the role of plaintiff gender in shaping the judicial decision to issue restraining orders rests upon only two studies. Both conclude that judges discriminate against male victims. Each is constrained by small male sample size, few control variables, and limited statistical analysis. We replicate one of these studies. In the issuance of temporary orders we find a gender difference, though with a greatly reduced effect size compared to the earlier study. Legally relevant gender differences may explain this disparity. Plaintiff gender had no effect on the judicial decision to set hearing dates or to issue a permanent order.
When Does Intimate Partner Violence Continue After Separation?
Authors: Ornstein Petra , Rickne Johanna
Published: June 2013

Over their lifetime, approximately 10% of all women become victims of postseparation stalking or assault. We use a nationally representative survey of separated Swedish women to examine whether men who strive to control their partners during their relationships are more likely to stalk or assault their ex-partners after separation. The empirical analysis shows that basic measures of control behaviors explain 18% of the variance in stalking victimization and 8% of the assault victimization. Moreover, the predictive values of our measures of control by far surpass those of other common risk markers included in the analysis.
Kinetics of color development of melanoidins formed from fructose/amino acid model systems
Authors: Echavarría AP , Pagán J , Ibarz A
Published: June 2013

The formation of soluble melanoidins from a single combination of sugar (fructose) and amino acid model systems were evaluated kinetically. The selected amino acids, commonly found in apple juice and highly reactive in the Maillard reaction, were asparagine, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid. The effect of these reagents and the treatment at different temperatures (50 ℃, 85 ℃, and 100 ℃) during 96 h on the color intensity of the melanoidin formed was measured by absorbance at different wavelengths (280, 325, 405, and 420 nm). The absorbance of the melanoidin formed from all model systems was located on the wavelength of 405 nm, that is, the area of the visible spectrum close to the UV region. The color of the melanoidins was directly measured using the CIELAB color space system. A first-order kinetic model was applied to the evolution of the Δ E* (color difference) and L* (lightness) of the color. The fructose/aspartic acid model system values of a * (redness) and b *(yellowness) were found in the brown-red zone. Therefore, the color development of the melanoidins was influenced by the type of amino acid and temperature. Especially, it is thought that the a * and b * values can be used to explain the differences among the amino acids in the color development of melanoidins.
Relationship of dough thermomechanical properties with oil uptake, cooking and textural properties of instant fried noodles
Authors: Gulia Neelam , Khatkar BS
Published: June 2013

Instant noodles were prepared from fifteen diverse wheat cultivars varying widely in their flour quality and dough rheology. Dough thermomechanical parameters obtained by Mixolab and flour analytical properties were correlated with the quality of instant noodles including oil uptake, cooking quality and textural attributes. The Mixolab parameters dough development time and dough stability showed significant positive correlation with cooking time, cooked weight, overall acceptability, hardness, springiness, cohesiveness and chewiness of noodles, while negatively correlated with oil uptake and cooking loss, therefore, exhibiting a marked positive effect on quality of instant noodles. Lower protein breakdown represented by C2 torque was also positively related with overall acceptability, hardness, springiness, cohesiveness and chewiness of noodles. Stickiness/adhesiveness of noodles was revealed to be mainly conferred by falling number values ( R2 = 0.671) and damaged starch ( R2 = 0.523) content of wheat flour samples. Flour samples with lesser values of protein content, sodium dodecyl sulphate sedimentation volume, thermal stability of proteins, dough stability and dough development time were found to be linked with poor noodle quality. Medium strong flours performed better in noodle making, while weaker flours demonstrated poor noodle quality. Dough rheology of good noodle making flours was characterized with higher dough development time, dough stability, C2, C3, C4 as well as C5 values. Noodles with higher overall acceptability showed a more continuous and uniform protein starch matrix in comparison to the poor counterparts.
Ohmic pre-drying of tomato paste
Authors: Hosainpour Adel , Darvishi Hosain , Nargesi Farzad , Fadavi Ali
Published: June 2013

In this study, the effects of ohmic pre-drying technique on moisture ratio, drying rate, drying time, specific energy consumption, drying efficiency, and effective moisture diffusivity of tomato paste were investigated. Pre-drying experiments were carried out in an ohmic laboratory dryer at voltage gradient levels of 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16 V/cm and oven at 105 ℃ and 1.0 m/s air velocity (control sample). Pre-drying was accomplished till the moisture content of the tomato paste reduced from initial moisture content of 90% (w.b.) to a safer level of 70% (w.b.). The ohmic pre-drying reduced the drying time of tomato paste by 80–97%, compared with the hot air drying. Pre-drying took place mainly in warming up, constant rate, and falling rate periods. Six available moisture-ratio models were fitted to the pre-drying data. The results showed that the Midilli et al. model is the most appropriate model for pre-drying behavior of tomato paste. The effective moisture diffusivity varied from 5.39 × 10−8 to 3.91 × 10−7m2/s with an activation energy of 2.082 (V/g.cm). Both specific energy consumption and drying efficiency were considerably enhanced by increasing voltage gradient. It was found that the specific energy consumption and drying efficiency varied from 3.72 to 2.29 MJ/kg water and 67.8 to 83.8%, respectively.
Use of whole grain and refined flour from tannin and non-tannin sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) varieties in frybread
Authors: Rose Devin J , Williams Emily , Mkandawire Nyambe L , Weller Curtis L , Jackson David S
Published: June 2013

Frybreads were prepared using wheat flour and wheat-sorghum composite flours (refined and whole grain; white, tannin-free and red, tannin-containing) at 0, 25, 50, and 75% sorghum flour. Hardness, volume, specific volume, color, and oil uptake were determined. Frybreads made with refined white, tannin-free sorghum were also evaluated in a sensory panel. Substitution of sorghum flour for wheat flour reduced the volume and increased the darkness of the fried dough pieces compared with wheat flour controls. Oil absorption was unaffected when using white, tannin-free sorghum. When using red, tannin-containing sorghum, oil absorption increased for refined flour and decreased for whole grain flour, suggesting that a component only present in the whole grain tannin-containing Sorghum—perhaps tannins themselves—may decrease oil uptake. Panelists rated frybreads containing up to 50% white, tannin-free sorghum flour as not significantly different from control frybreads made with refined wheat flour.
Use of spent osmotic solutions for the production of fructooligosaccharides by Aspergillus oryzae N74
Authors: Ruiz Yolanda , Klotz Bernadette , Serrato Juan , Guio Felipe , Bohórquez Jorge , Sánchez Oscar F
Published: June 2013

In the food industry, osmotic dehydration can be an important stage to obtain partially dry foodstuffs. However, the remaining spent osmotic solution at the end of the process could become a waste with an important environmental impact due to the large amount of organic compounds that it might contain. Since one of the most important osmotic agents used in osmotic dehydration is sucrose, this spent osmotic solution could be used to be biotransformed to produce fructooligosaccharides by a fructosyltransferase. This study evaluated the production of fructooligosaccharides using the fructosyltransferase produced by Aspergillus oryzae N74, and the spent osmotic solution that resulted in the osmotic dehydration of Andes berry ( Rubus glaucus) and tamarillo ( Cyphomandra betacea). Assays were conducted at small and bioreactor scales, using spent osmotic solution with or without re-concentration. At small scale no significant difference ( p > 0.05) was observed in the fructooligosaccharides production yield, ranging from 31.18% to 34.98% for spent osmotic solution from tamarillo osmotic dehydration, and from 33.16% to 37.52% for spent osmotic solution from Andes berry osmotic dehydration, using either the SOS with or without re-concentration. At bioreactor scale the highest fructooligosaccharides yield of 58.51 ± 1.73% was obtained with spent osmotic solution that resulted from tamarillo osmotic dehydration. With the spent osmotic solution from Andes berry osmotic dehydration the yield was 49.17 ± 2.82%. These results showed the feasibility of producing fructooligosaccharides from spent osmotic solution that is considered a waste in food industry.
Pitting resistance of sintered small-module gears
Authors: Dizdar Senad
Published: June 2013

Sintered small-module gears have two important aspects that readily follow from the name: they are sintered and with a small module of 1.5875 mm (DP 16). Both aspects are to date insufficiently described for gear designers despite an increased need for sintered small-module gears. This article reviews a decade of systematic experimental investigations with regard to pitting resistance of sintered small-module gears. Pitting resistance levels are listed for the common pressing/sintering/surface densification technologies of today. Currently the highest pitting resistance of 1300 MPa is achieved for pressed, sintered, rolled, re-sintered and case carburized low-alloy gears in comparison with 1800 MPa for the reference ground case-carburized 16MnCr5-wrought gears. This offset can, however, be compensated by selection of a relatively higher viscosity and lower operating temperature of the lubricating oil, if the application allows it. Thus, powder metal technology can once again contribute to a competitive total cost with high material utilization.
Influence of compound mineral fiber on the properties of paper-based composite friction material
Authors: Zhang Xiang , Li Kezhi , Li Hejun , Fu Yewei , Fei Jie
Published: June 2013

Paper-based composite friction material is a kind of key functional material for automatic transmission. In this study, five types of paper-based composite friction materials with different compound mineral fiber contents were prepared using the paper-making process. The effect of compound mineral fiber content on the properties such as shear strength, thermal property, friction torque curves, dynamic friction coefficient and wear resistance was studied. Meanwhile, the sensitivity of the friction coefficients was also investigated. Worn surfaces of samples were analyzed using scanning electron microscope. Experimental results revealed that the thermal properties of the samples were improved as the compound mineral fiber content increased and the shear strength increased initially and then decreased. The friction torque curve of the sample with 20% compound mineral fiber contents was the highest among all the samples and the sample with higher compound mineral fiber contents possessed the more flat friction torque curve during the mixed asperity contact phase of the engagement process. The dynamic friction coefficient increased with the increase of compound mineral fiber content and decreased as contact pressure and rotating speed increased. The wear resistance of the sample was highest when the compound mineral fiber content was about 15%.
The role of projective identification in constructing the “Other”: Why do Westerners want to “liberate” Muslim women?
Authors: Rosenbaum Philip J
Published: June 2013

This commentary offers a cultural psychological understanding of the traditionally psychoanalytic notion of projective identification to explore the ironic way that majority and minority cultures can influence each other. In the target paper (Wagner, Sen, Permanadeli, & Howarth, 2012), the Western gaze operates ironically by constructing minority Muslim women as needing liberation. This leads to their resistance, through increased religious observance, which requires giving up their individual freedom. Understood as a circular and monological process of projective-identification designed to protect off-limit areas of meaning making, dialogue requires each culture to take ownership of these areas.
Making things visible: The dialogical and the monological within the human nature
Authors: Maslov Kirill S
Published: June 2013

The present article gives a description and explanation of dialogical meaning of body in the dialogical approach by Mikhail Bakhtin, triggered by the dialogical perspective of the work by Prokopiou, Cline, and de Abreu (2012). Our image of the self is roughly joined with the meaning of our body and its parts. Visibility of the body and its regulation through cultural means may be explained though the dialogical relation, where the presence of the “other” makes possible to perceive the self and the body entirely. The special accent is made on the meaning of the border in human life, and especially in terms of body and its modifications. Stressing attention on the colour of skin or upon any other visible feature that human being has (e.g. religious attributes, specific behaviour patterns, etc.) does not make for a closer, but rather separates and dissolves, dialogical relation into several monologues which makes impossible any kind productive of interrelation.
Grasping the dialogical nature of acculturation
Authors: Rosa Catarina , Tavares Sofia
Published: June 2013

In this interesting article, Andreouli (2013). Identity and acculturation: The case of naturalised citizens in Britain. Culture & Psychology, 19, 1–47) presents a dialogical perspective on acculturation. To support this perspective, the author integrates the Dialogical Self Theory and the Social Representations Theory. Drawing on her theoretical explanation, we develop a conceptual review focused on two pairs of constructs – social representations/I-positions and polyphasia/polyphonia. Andreouli’s empirical study allowed her to operationalize some critiques about the two-dimensional perspective and its strategies on acculturation. Nevertheless, it seems that the author ends up replicating a more conventional and dual way of thinking. Their results give us privileged access to the negotiation of meanings and activation of promoter signs or, in other words, to the dialogical dynamics between I-positions. In this respect, we suggest that the assumption of a more dialogic and semiotic lens could be an interesting further development to this study.
The Bakhtinian self and beyond: Towards a dialogical phenomenology of the self
Authors: De Oliveira Maria Cláudia Santos Lopes
Published: June 2013

The goal of the present article is to comment and to potentially expand some of the arguments developed in Cresswell’s (2011) Being faithful: Bakhtin and a potential postmodern psychology of self, published in Culture & Psychology. The original work presents the reader with the author’s position about Bakhtin’s elaborations on the meanings of self and on the implications of his elaborations for a Psychology of the self. Although the ideas disposed in the original article are evocative of creative analytical results, in terms of the social constitution of the sense of selfness, the present work presents a different perspective on the topic. Considering the material of a decade of research on verbal reports, I present an alternative proposition, sustaining (together with pragmaticists of the piercean legade) that the temporal organization of personal experience follows a bidirectional direction.
The influence of personality on reported pain and self-efficacy for pain management in older cancer patients
Authors: Krok Jessica L , Baker Tamara A
Published: June 2013

This study examines the relationship of personality traits and affect on cancer-related pain in 150 older adults receiving outpatient treatment at a comprehensive cancer center. Regression analyses revealed extraversion as a significant predictor of current pain, with openness to experience as a significant indicator of average pain. Similarly, positive affect and negative affect were significant predictors of self-efficacy for pain management. Moderation models showed that conscientiousness and extraversion were significant moderators in the relationship between self-efficacy for pain management and worst pain. These findings suggest that different personality types may influence perceptions of pain severity.
Numerical analysis to determine the performance of combined variable ceiling and floor-based air distribution systems in an office room
Authors: Park Dong Yoon , Chang Seongju
Published: June 2013

This study analyses the performance characteristics of combined variable ceiling and floor-based air distribution systems in an office room using a numerical method to optimize the level of thermal comfort and indoor air quality. To validate the computational fluid dynamics simulations, temperature, air velocity and CO2 concentration were measured and compared. The simulation results of various combinations of ceiling and floor-based air distribution systems show that the exhaust should be located above the occupant and the window in summer; due to the large thermal plume as heat sources that could be generated by the window and the occupant. Whereas in winter, the supply should be located on the ceiling far from the window and the exhaust should be positioned on the floor near the occupant; as the downward airflow around the cold window surface would become more dominant when compared to the upward airflow associated with any other heat sources. The results have indicated that having both ceiling and floor-based air conditioning systems would allow the flexibility to change supply and exhaust air diffuser locations to optimize thermal and ventilation performance more efficiently in countries that are subject to distinct seasonal changes.
Accelerations in the plane joint with application to the Tracta coupling
Authors: Fischer Ian S
Published: June 2013

A formulation using dual-number coordinate transformations is developed to calculate the accelerations within the plane joint, a complex joint where the displacements are naturally expressed in different coordinate frames. The calculation of the accelerations in the Tracta constant-velocity shaft coupling is presented as an example of how the methodology can be applied in an automatic-computation scheme applicable to many types of mechanisms including those with a plane joint.
Caregivers’ willingness-to-pay for Alzheimer’s disease medications in Canada
Authors: Oremus Mark , Tarride Jean-Eric , Pullenayegum Eleanor , Clayton Natasha , Group Canadian Willingness-To-Pay Study , Raina Parminder
Published: June 2013

We studied caregivers’ willingness-to-pay for Alzheimer’s disease drug therapy. We recruited 216 caregivers of persons with mild or moderate Alzheimer’s disease and presented them with four scenarios describing a hypothetical Alzheimer’s disease medication. The scenarios described the medication as capable of either treating the symptoms of disease or modifying the course of disease. The scenarios also presented two different probabilities of adverse effects occurrence, i.e. 0% or 30%. Most caregivers said they would pay out-of-pocket for the medication, with support for such payment ranging from 68% to 93%, depending on the specific scenario. The highest level of support was for the ‘disease modifying and no adverse effects’ scenario, while the lowest level was for the ‘symptom treatment and 30% chance of adverse effects’ scenario. On average, caregivers’ monthly willingness-to-pay out-of-pocket for the medication ranged from $214 to $277 (Canadian dollars). Dollar amounts were highest for the ‘disease modifying and no adverse effects’ scenario and lowest for the ‘symptom treatment and 30% chance of adverse effects’ scenario. Support for out-of-pocket payment and specific dollar amounts were highest when the medication did not involve adverse effects. Caregivers placed more value on the absence of adverse effects than on drug efficacy.
The Effects of House Bill 1355 on Voter Registration in Florida
Authors: Herron Michael C. , Smith Daniel A.
Published: June 2013

In mid-2011, the Florida state legislature passed House Bill 1355 (HB 1355) and in so doing placed new regulations on community organizations that historically have helped eligible Floridians register to vote. Among the legal changes promulgated by this bill were new regulations on the operations of groups like the League of Women Voters and a new oath, warning of prison time and fines, that voter registration agents were required to sign. Such changes raised the implicit costs that eligible Florida citizens faced when registering to vote, and we show that voter registrations across the state in the second half of 2011 dropped precipitously compared with registrations in the second half of 2007. This pattern is evident among registrants in general, among registrants age 20 and younger, and among individuals who registered as Democrats. Outside of HB 1355, we know of no credible explanations for these results. Our findings thus show how restrictions on the way that third-party organizations register voters can have tangible effects on actual registrations. Given that registration prior to an election is a civic necessity in Florida and in many other states, such restrictions have the potential to affect electoral outcomes as well.
Does Percentage of Latinas/os Affect Graduation Rates at 4-Year Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), Emerging HSIs, and Non-HSIs?
Authors: Garcia Gina A.
Published: June 2013

As the population of college-aged Latinas/os grows, the number of Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) increases. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the percentage of Latinas/os has an effect on the institutional graduation rates of Latina/o students attending HSIs, emerging HSIs, and non-HSIs. Data were drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the sample included 296 institutions. A structural equation model was used to confirm predictors of graduation rates.
Modeling the Structure of Partnership Between Researchers and Front-Line Service Providers
Authors: Pinto Rogério M. , Wall Melanie M. , Spector Anya Y.
Published: June 2013

Partnerships between HIV researchers and service providers are essential for reducing the gap between research and practice. Community-Based Participatory Research principles guided this cross-sectional study, combining 40 in-depth interviews with surveys of 141 providers in 24 social service agencies in New York City. We generated the Provider-Researcher Partnership Model to account for provider- and agency-level factors’ influence on intentions to form partnerships with researchers. Providers preferred “balanced partnerships” in which researchers and providers allocated research tasks and procedures to reflect diverse knowledge/skill sets. An organizational culture that values research can help enhance providers’ intentions to partner. Providers’ intentions and priorities found in this study may encourage researchers to engage in and policy makers to fund collaborative research.
Staged hybrid open and endovascular exclusion of a symptomatic thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm in a high-risk patient
Authors: Chung Christine , Malik Rajesh , Marin Michael , Faries Peter , Ellozy Sharif
Published: June 2013

Thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms have a higher prevalence in the elderly, who are often poor surgical candidates. These extensive aneurysms may be lethal if left untreated. Conventional open repair has proven to be a major task, involving cardiopulmonary bypass, aortic cross-clamping and expeditious repair of an inaccessible structure involving two body cavities. Endovascular repair has become a viable option to treat isolated descending thoracic aneurysms and infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms. However, endovascular techniques alone have been less applicable for treating complex aortic aneurysms, including those involving visceral vessels. Therefore, a hybrid open and endovascular approach with visceral debranching has become an increasingly favorable alternative for patients with these complex conditions. We report a case in which a staged hybrid approach was used for successful exclusion of an extensive thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm in a symptomatic, high-risk patient who would not have been an appropriate candidate for open surgical repair.
Oesophageal pressure‐flow metrics in relation to bolus volume, bolus consistency, and bolus perception
Authors: Omari Taher I , Wauters Lucas , Rommel Nathalie , Kritas Stamatiki , Myers Jenifer C
Published: June 2013

Background

The utility of combined oesophageal pressure–impedance recording has been enhanced by automation of data analysis.

Objective

To understand how oesophageal function as measured by automated impedance manometry (AIM) pressure‐flow analysis varies with bolus characteristics and subjective perception of bolus passage.

Methods

Oesophageal pressure–impedance recordings of 5 and 10 ml liquid or viscous swallows and 2 and 4 cm solid swallows from 20 healthy control subjects (five male; 25–73 years) were analysed. Metrics indicative of bolus pressurization (intrabolus pressure and intrabolus pressure slope) were derived. Bolus flow resistance, the relationship between bolus pressurization and flow timing, was assessed using a pressure‐flow index. Bolus retention was assessed using the ratio of nadir impedance to peak pressure impedance (impedance ratio). Subjective perception of bolus passage was assessed swallow by swallow.

Results

Viscosity increased the bolus flow resistance and reduced bolus clearance. Responses to boluses of larger volume and more viscous consistency revealed a positive correlation between bolus pressurization and oesophageal peak pressure. Flow resistance was higher in subjects who perceived bolus hold up of solids.

Conclusions

Bolus volume and bolus type alter oesophageal function and impact AIM analysis metrics descriptive of oesophageal function. Perception of bolus transit was associated with heightened bolus pressurization relative to bolus flow.
Healthy Aging Reports
Authors: Agu Francis C.
Published: June 2013

Two separate reports from the Dutch Health Council of Netherlands and Social and Cultural Planning Bureau draw our attention to the tension between certain factors specifically related to healthy aging, namely, vulnerability and independency/functioning independently. Though appearing contradictory, both concepts are very relevant in the elderly health care. Hence, the objective was to develop a conceptual and ethical analysis of vulnerability and independency. To achieve that, we conducted a conceptual analysis of more than 80 scientific and philosophical data collected from Pubmed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. Both concepts are mostly defined as separate compartments, thereby missing their intrinsic relationship. For an ethically well-argued analysis of care for the elderly, we present two new definitions in which the concept of dignity provides a fundamental basis of understanding both concepts, which are indeed two human conditions. Furthermore, we underline the implications of the new conceptualization for autonomy, and give some examples of humanly respectful empowerment strategies in the elderly care.
Failure to Test for HIV in Rural Ethiopia
Authors: Lifson Alan R. , Demisse Workneh , Ketema Kassu , Tadesse Alemayehu , May Randy , Yakob Bereket , Slater Lucy , Shenie Tibebe
Published: June 2013

Goals of universal “test and treat” will never be fully realized if testing acceptance remains low, including rural areas, where HIV is increasingly recognized. We surveyed 250 randomly selected households from a rural Ethiopian town (Arba Minch) and surrounding villages about HIV testing experience, knowledge, and attitudes. Of the 558 adults, 45% were never HIV tested. Those never tested for HIV were more likely to be ( P < .05) ≥45 years, rural villagers, and unaware of the benefits of antiretroviral therapy treatment and that persons with HIV can appear healthy; they were more likely to believe HIV-infected persons would be stigmatized and unsupported by their communities. Of those never tested, 70% were interested in HIV testing if offered. Despite recommendations that all persons be HIV tested, almost half of the adult residents in this rural community were never tested. Programs to increase HIV testing must include measures to address stigma/discrimination and knowledge deficits including benefits of early diagnosis and treatment.
Prolylcarboxypeptidase promotes angiogenesis and vascular repair
Authors: Adams Gregory N. , Stavrou Evi X. , Fang Chao , Merkulova Alona , Alaiti M. Amer , Nakajima Kohsuke , Morooka Toshifumi , Merkulov Sergei , LaRusch Gretchen A. , Simon Daniel I , Jain Mukesh K. , Schmaier Alvin H.
Published: June 2013

Key Points

PRCP influences cell growth independent of its active site. PRCP loss has reduced angiogenesis, wound healing, and ischemic/wire injury repair.
CMV reactivation after allogeneic HCT and relapse risk: evidence for early protection in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Green Margaret L. , Leisenring Wendy M. , Xie Hu , Walter Roland B. , Mielcarek Marco , Sandmaier Brenda M. , Riddell Stanley R. , Boeckh Michael
Published: June 2013

Key Points

CMV reactivation after HCT is associated with a reduced risk of early relapse in patients with AML but not other disease groups. The benefit, however, is offset by an increased risk of nonrelapse mortality.
Transcriptional adaptation of pneumococci and human pharyngeal cells in the presence of a virus infection
Authors: Kimaro Mlacha Sheila Z , Peret Teresa C T , Kumar Nikhil , Romero-Steiner Sandra , Dunning Hotopp Julie C , Ishmael Nadeeza , Grinblat-Huse Valerie , Riley David R , Erdman Dean D , Carlone George M , Sampson Jacquelyn , Scott J Anthony G , Tettelin Hervé
Published: June 2013

Background

Viral upper respiratory tract infections are associated with increased colonization byStreptococcus pneumoniaebut the mechanisms underlying this relationship are unclear. The objective of this study is to describe a comprehensive picture of the cellular interaction between the adhering bacteria and host cells in the presence or absence of a viral co-infection.

Results

Gene expression profiles of Detroit-562 pharyngeal cells, which were either mock-infected or infected with human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) or human parainfluenza virus 3 (HPIV3), were analyzed using human microarrays. Transcription response ofS. pneumoniaestrain TIGR4 (serotype 4) in the presence of either mock- or viral-infected cells was analyzed by pneumococcal microarray. Significantly regulated genes were identified by both significance analysis of microarray (SAM) and a ≥ 2-fold change ratio cut-off. The adherence ofS. pneumoniaeto human pharyngeal cells was significantly augmented in the presence of RSV or HPIV3 infection. Global gene expression profiling of the host cells during infection with RSV or HPIV3 revealed increased transcription of carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecules (CEACAM1), CD47, fibronectin, interferon-stimulated genes and many other host cell adhesion molecules. Pneumococci increased transcription of several genes involved in adhesive functions (psaA, pilus islet), choline uptake and incorporation (licoperon), as well as transport and binding.

Conclusions

We have identified a core transcriptome that represents the basic machinery required for adherence of pneumococci to D562 cells infected or not infected with a virus. These bacterial genes and cell adhesion molecules can potentially be used to control pneumococcal adherence occurring secondary to a viral infection.
Alternative splicing tends to avoid partial removals of protein-protein interaction sites
Authors: Colantoni Alessio , Bianchi Valerio , Gherardini Pier Federico , Scalia Tomba Gianpaolo , Ausiello Gabriele , Helmer-Citterich Manuela , Ferrè Fabrizio
Published: June 2013

Background

Anecdotal evidence of the involvement of alternative splicing (AS) in the regulation of protein-protein interactions has been reported by several studies. AS events have been shown to significantly occur in regions where a protein interaction domain or a short linear motif is present. Several AS variants show partial or complete loss of interface residues, suggesting that AS can play a major role in the interaction regulation by selectively targeting the protein binding sites. In the present study we performed a statistical analysis of the alternative splicing of a non-redundant dataset of human protein-protein interfaces known at molecular level to determine the importance of this way of modulation of protein-protein interactions through AS.

Results

Using a Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel chi-square test we demonstrated that the alternative splicing-mediated partial removal of both heterodimeric and homodimeric binding sites occurs at lower frequencies than expected, and this holds true even if we consider only those isoforms whose sequence is less different from that of the canonical protein and which therefore allow to selectively regulate functional regions of the protein. On the other hand, large removals of the binding site are not significantly prevented, possibly because they are associated to drastic structural changes of the protein. The observed protection of the binding sites from AS is not preferentially directed towards putative hot spot interface residues, and is widespread to all protein functional classes.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that protein-protein binding sites are generally protected from alternative splicing-mediated partial removals. However, some cases in which the binding site is selectively removed exist, and here we discuss one of them.
Expression profiling of genes regulated by Fra-1/AP-1 transcription factor during bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Rajasekaran Subbiah , Reddy Narsa M , Zhang Wei , Reddy Sekhar P
Published: June 2013

Background

The Fra-1/AP-1 transcription factor regulates the expression of genes controlling various processes including migration, invasion, and survival as well as extracellular remodeling. We recently demonstrated that loss ofFra-1leads to exacerbated bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, accompanied by enhanced expression of various inflammatory and fibrotic genes. To better understand the molecular mechanisms by which Fra-1 confers protection during bleomycin-induced lung injury, genome-wide mRNA expression profiling was performed.

Results

We found that Fra-1 regulates gene expression programs that include: 1) several cytokines and chemokines involved in inflammation, 2) several genes involved in the extracellular remodeling and cell adhesion, and 3) several genes involved in programmed cell death.

Conclusion

Loss of Fra-1 leads to the enhanced expression of genes regulating inflammation and immune responses and decreased the expression of genes involved in apoptosis, suggesting that this transcription factor distinctly modulates early pro-fibrotic cellular responses.
Detection of selective sweeps in cattle using genome-wide SNP data
Authors: Ramey Holly R , Decker Jared E , McKay Stephanie D , Rolf Megan M , Schnabel Robert D , Taylor Jeremy F
Published: June 2013

Background

The domestication and subsequent selection by humans to create breeds and biological types of cattle undoubtedly altered the patterning of variation within their genomes. Strong selection to fix advantageous large-effect mutations underlying domesticability, breed characteristics or productivity created selective sweeps in which variation was lost in the chromosomal region flanking the selected allele. Selective sweeps have now been identified in the genomes of many animal species including humans, dogs, horses, and chickens. Here, we attempt to identify and characterise regions of the bovine genome that have been subjected to selective sweeps.

Results

Two datasets were used for the discovery and validation of selective sweeps via the fixation of alleles at a series of contiguous SNP loci. BovineSNP50 data were used to identify 28 putative sweep regions among 14 diverse cattle breeds. Affymetrix BOS 1 prescreening assay data for five breeds were used to identify 85 regions and validate 5 regions identified using the BovineSNP50 data. Many genes are located within these regions and the lack of sequence data for the analysed breeds precludes the nomination of selected genes or variants and limits the prediction of the selected phenotypes. However, phenotypes that we predict to have historically been under strong selection include horned-polled, coat colour, stature, ear morphology, and behaviour.

Conclusions

The bias towards common SNPs in the design of the BovineSNP50 assay led to the identification of recent selective sweeps associated with breed formation and common to only a small number of breeds rather than ancient events associated with domestication which could potentially be common to all European taurines. The limited SNP density, or marker resolution, of the BovineSNP50 assay significantly impacted the rate of false discovery of selective sweeps, however, we found sweeps in common between breeds which were confirmed using an ultra-high-density assay scored in a small number of animals from a subset of the breeds. No sweep regions were shared between indicine and taurine breeds reflecting their divergent selection histories and the very different environmental habitats to which these sub-species have adapted.
Integrating nurse-led Self-Management Support (SMS) in routine primary care: design of a hybrid effectiveness-implementation study among type 2 diabetes patients with problems of daily functioning and emotional distress: a study protocol
Authors: van Dijk - de Vries Anneke , van Bokhoven Marloes A , Terluin Berend , van der Weijden Trudy , van Eijk Jacques Th M
Published: June 2013

Background

Psychosocial problems are more prevalent among patients with chronic diseases than among the general population. They may lead to a downward spiral of poor adherence, deterioration of the condition and decline in daily functioning. In addition to medical management, systematic attention to emotional and role management tasks during routine chronic care seems mandatory. We intend to integrate an existing nurse-led minimal psychological intervention to support patients’ self-management, which appeared to be effective and cost-effective, in routine care by primary care nurses, so we adjusted it to fit the host setting. The resulting Self-Management Support (SMS) programme involves early detection of patients with emotional distress and problems of daily functioning, as well as self-management support through problem solving and reattribution techniques. Strategies to embed SMS in daily practice include training and booster sessions for practice nurses as well as organisational and financial arrangements. This study aims to simultaneously evaluate the implementation process and effects of SMS in routine care, using a hybrid effectiveness–implementation design.

Methods/Design

Registration data, questionnaires and interviews will be used to explore the facilitators, barriers and costs regarding successful implementation of SMS. The effects of SMS will be evaluated in a pragmatic cluster-randomised controlled trial with a baseline measurement and follow-up measurements after 4 and 12 months. The population will consist of 46 practice nurses and their type 2 diabetes patients (N = 460; 10 per practice nurse). The practice nurses will be randomly assigned to the intervention or control group. Practice nurses of the intervention group will receive SMS training. Patients for the intervention and control groups will be recruited by a researcher-led self-administered screening procedure to decide which patients of those scheduled for routine consultation are likely to be detected by the practice nurses as eligible for the self-management support. Primary outcome measure is patients’ daily functioning. Secondary measures include emotional well-being, participation, autonomy and control over the disease.

Discussion

Our hybrid study design is complicated by the detection method used by the practice nurses. This method is an implementation issue in itself that has consequences for the realisation and power of the effect evaluation.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials, NTR2764
Epidemiology of hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus infections in pregnant women in Sana’a, Yemen
Authors: Murad Entisar A , Babiker Suad M , Gasim Gasim I , Rayis Duria A , Adam Ishag
Published: June 2013

Background

Screening for Hepatitis B and C during pregnancy may help to decide on appropriate antiviral therapy and the institution of steps to minimize vertical transmission to the newborn infants.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted during November–December 2011 to investigate the seroprevalence and associated risk factors for markers of HBV (hepatitis B surface antigen; HBsAg) and anti-HCV antibody among pregnant women at the Al-Thawra hospital in Sana’a, Yemen. Structured questionnaires were used to obtain sociodemographic obstetrics and medical data and sera were tested for HBsAg and anti-HCV.

Results

Of the 400 pregnant women enrolled in the study, HBsAg and anti-HCV were detected in 43 (10.8%; 95% CI: 8.0–14.0%) and 34 (8.5%, 95% CI: 6.0–11.5%) women, respectively. None of the women were co-infected with HBV and HCV. Multivariate analysis showed that circumcision was significantly associated with HBsAg seropositivity (OR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.1–10.2; p = 0.03), low parity (primigravidae and secundigravidae) and education below secondary level were significantly associated with anti- HCV seropositivity (OR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.1–10.2; p = 0.03). No other sociodemographic or clinical characteristics (age, residence, history of home delivery, miscarriage, dental manipulation, surgery, and blood transfusion) were significantly associated with HBsAg or anti-HCV seropositivity.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that HBsAg and anti-HCV have high prevalence among pregnant women.
Effect of an isoenergetic traditional Mediterranean diet on apolipoprotein A-I kinetic in men with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Richard Caroline , Couture Patrick , Desroches Sophie , Lichtenstein Alice H , Lamarche Benoît
Published: June 2013

Background

The impact of the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) kinetics has not been studied to date. The objective of this study was therefore to investigate the effect of the MedDiet in the absence of changes in body weight on apolipoprotein (apo) A-I kinetic in men with metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Methods

Twenty-six men with MetS (NCEP-ATP III) were recruited from the general community. In this fixed sequence study, participants’ diet was first standardized to a control diet reflecting current averages in macronutrient intake in North American men, with all foods and beverages provided under isoenergetic conditions for 5 weeks. Participants were then fed an isoenergetic MedDiet over a subsequent period of 5 weeks to maintain their weight constant. During the last week of each diet, participants received a single bolus dose of [5,5,5-2H3] L-leucine and fasting blood samples were collected at predetermined time points. ApoA-I kinetic was determined by multicompartmental modeling using isotopic enrichment data over time. Data were analyses using MIXED models.

Results

The response of HDL-cholesterol (C) to MedDiet was heterogeneous, such that there was no mean change compared with the control diet. Plasma apoA-I concentration (−3.9%) and pool size (−5.3%, both P < 0.05) were significantly lower after MedDiet and apoA-I production rate tended to be reduced (−5.7%, P = 0.07) with no change in apoA-I fractional catabolic rate (FCR, -1.6%, P = 0.64). Participants among whom HDL-C concentrations were increased with MedDiet (responders: mean ∆HDL-C: +9.9 ± 3.2%, N = 11) showed significantly greater reductions in apoA-I FCR and in apoB and very-low-density lipoprotein-triglycerides (VLDL-TG) concentrations (all P < 0.04) than those among whom HDL-C levels were reduced after the MedDiet (non-responders: mean ∆HDL-C: -12.0 ± 3.9%, N = 8). Correlation analysis revealed that only variations in apoA-I FCR (r = -0.48, P = 0.01) and in plasma VLDL-TG (r = −0.45, P = 0.03) concentrations were correlated with the individual HDL-C response to the MedDiet.

Conclusions

Data from this controlled feeding study suggest that the heterogeneous response of HDL-C to MedDiet, in the absence of important weight loss, is primarily related to individual variations in apoA-I FCR and in plasma VLDL-TG concentrations.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrial.gov registration number: NCT00988650