bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Unfractionated and Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin on OPG, sRANKL, and von Willebrand Factor Concentrations During Hemodialysis
Authors: Klejna Katarzyna , Naumnik Beata , Koc-Żórawska Ewa , Myśliwiec Michał
Published: October 2012

Background: Endothelial dysfunction marker, von Willebrand factor (vWF), is physically connected with osteoprotegerin (OPG) in the Weibel-Palade bodies. We aimed to compare the effect of unfractionated (UFH) and low-molecular-weight (LMWH enoxaparin) heparin used as anticoagulants during hemodialysis (HD) on plasma levels and relationships of OPG, soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor κB Ligand (sRANKL), and vWF. Methods: Totally 21 clinically stable chronic HD patients were randomly assigned to either enoxaparin (n = 10) or UFH (n = 11) anticoagulation and followed prospectively for 12 weeks before crossing over to the alternate therapy for further 12 weeks. The OPG, RANKL, and vWF levels were measured at T0, T10, and T180 of HD session after each period of evaluation. Results: The baseline sRANKL level was higher under UFH treatment. Its over-HD level does not behave significantly different under enoxaparin and UFH treatment. Plasma OPG levels expressly changed during both enoxaparin (χ2 analysis of variance [ANOVA] = 31.13, P < .016) and UFH (χ2 ANOVA = 8.26, P = .016) anticoagulation, and its increment at T10 and T180 was significantly different between both the heparins. The main negative predictor of OPG concentration was the total cholesterol level (β = −.51, P = .025). von Willebrand factor concentration remained stable during UFH anticoagulation, whereas constant, no significant increments were noticed, under enoxaparin treatment. After 10 minutes of HD, especially under enoxaparin use, a positive correlation between OPG and vWF increase was noticed ( P = .03, R = .45). Conclusions: Impact of heparin on endothelial cells and simultaneously on OPG/RANK/RANKL axis reinforces the presumption of the pathophysiological linkage between bone mineralization and endothelial dysfunction in end-stage renal disease.
Monitoring Residual Platelet Activity Among Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Qiao Rui , Li Lei , Zhang Jie
Published: October 2012

Several medicines are currently used to inhibit the platelet activity. We aim to monitor the residual platelet activity (RPA) despite antiplatelet therapy and assess its relationship with major adverse events. The impedance platelet aggregation was employed to determine RPA. Totally, 202 patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) were followed up for 10 months for major clinical events of myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident (CVA), and all cause mortality, and RPA after clopidogrel loading was assessed in 30 patients. The RPA at 2 hours after 300 mg clopidogrel loading was 1 Ω (± 2.3 Ω) induced by adenosine diphosphate. Residual platelet activity of patients who experienced death, MI, or CVA was significantly higher than those who did not experience ( P < .05). Cutoff values of RPA showed optimal negative predictive values (96%-97%) and poor positive predictive values (16%-29%). Therefore, RPA monitored by whole blood impedance platelet aggregation may have high exclusionary predictive value for the occurrence of major clinical events in patients with ACS.
South Asian Battered Women’s Use of Force Against Intimate Male Partners
Authors: Roy Debjani
Published: October 2012

The purpose of this practice note is to explore issues that arise in Manavi’s work with South Asian women who use nonfatal force in heterosexual intimate relationships. It provides a nuanced understanding of the contexts within which a South Asian woman uses physical force. It addresses the many barriers a South Asian woman faces in an abusive relationship that ultimately may lead her to use of force. The goal of the practice note is to act as a tool to strengthen advocacy and service provision made available to South Asian female survivors of violence and abuse.
Addictive Economies and Coal Dependency
Authors: Perdue Robert Todd , Pavela Gregory
Published: October 2012

Policy makers generally see resource extraction as a boon for local economies and citizens. Numerous studies, however, have shown negative socioeconomic outcomes in extractive communities, supporting the notion that resources can be more of a curse than a blessing. One aspect of this debate that requires further clarification is the role played by method of extraction. In this article, we use the case of West Virginia coal mining and a fixed effects model to test whether extraction methods affect socioeconomic outcomes. We observe little difference in these outcomes between surface and underground mining; rather, it is the presence or absence of mining that matters most. We find that nonmining counties have lower poverty and unemployment rates than mining counties. These results lead us to conclude that leaving remaining coal stores in the ground will likely prove most beneficial to the state’s people and economy in the long run.
Financial Hardship and Self-Rated Health Among Low-Income Housing Residents
Authors: Tucker-Seeley Reginald D. , Harley Amy E. , Stoddard Anne M. , Sorensen Glorian G.
Published: October 2012

Background. Self-rated health (SRH) has been shown to be predictive of morbidity and mortality. Evidence also shows that SRH is socioeconomically patterned, although this association differs depending on the indicator of socioeconomic status used. The purpose of this study was to determine the association between SRH and financial hardship among residents of low-income housing. Methods. We analyzed cross-sectional data from the Health in Common Study ( N = 828), an observational study to investigate social and physical determinants of cancer risk–related behaviors among residents of low-income housing in three cities in the Boston metropolitan area. Modified Poisson regression models were used to obtain the relative risk of low SRH (fair or poor), adjusting for demographic and socioeconomic characteristics. Results. Unadjusted models revealed that the respondents reporting financial hardship were 53% more likely to report low SRH compared with those not reporting financial hardship. After controlling for demographic characteristics, socioeconomic characteristics, and psychological distress, the results showed that those reporting financial hardship were 44% more likely to report low SRH. Conclusion. Our results suggest that financial hardship is a robust predictor of SRH; and over and above the influence of demographic and traditional socioeconomic indicators, and even psychological distress, financial hardship remains strongly associated with low SRH. Additional research needs to be conducted to further elucidate this pathway and to better understand the determinants of variability in financial hardship among low-income housing residents to ensure the most appropriate policy levers (e.g., housing-related policy, food-related policy) are chosen to improve health outcomes in this population.
The National Health Educator Job Analysis 2010
Authors: Doyle Eva I. , Caro Carla M. , Lysoby Linda , Auld M. Elaine , Smith Becky J. , Muenzen Patricia M.
Published: October 2012

The National Health Educator Job Analysis 2010 was conducted to update the competencies model for entry- and advanced-level health educators. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used. Structured interviews, focus groups, and a modified Delphi technique were implemented to engage 59 health educators from diverse work settings and experience levels in a seven-step instrument development process. An online survey was then completed by 1,022 practicing health educators. Survey participants used 4-point ordinal scales to rank subcompetencies by frequency of use and importance and related knowledge items by cognitive levels based on the Revised Bloom’s Taxonomy. Composite scores were calculated and subgroup comparisons conducted to validate 223 subcompetencies at entry (162), advanced-1 (42), and advanced-2 (19) levels of practice, along with 113 knowledge items. Advanced-level versus entry-level competencies and a comparison with the Competency Update Project model of 2006 are discussed. Implications and recommendations for the profession are provided.
Litter box preference in domestic cats: covered versus uncovered
Authors: Grigg Emma K , Pick Lindsay , Nibblett Belle
Published: October 2012

Feline inappropriate elimination (periuria and/or perichezia) remains a very common behavioral complaint of cat owners. Treatment recommendations often include improving the attractiveness of the litter boxes available to the cat. One frequent recommendation is to avoid covered litter boxes, although this has not previously been tested experimentally. The goal of this study was to assess whether, all else being equal, cats preferentially used uncovered litter boxes over covered litter boxes. Twenty-eight cats were enrolled in the study and offered the choice of a covered or uncovered box. Waste was scooped daily from each box, and the weight of waste in the different box styles was compared and evaluated using paired t-tests and χ2 analyses. Overall, there was no significant difference between use of the two box styles. Eight individual cats did exhibit a preference (four for covered, four for uncovered), but individual preference results are not evenly distributed, with more cats than expected showing no preference between litter box types. We postulate that, if boxes are kept sufficiently clean (ie, once daily minimum cleaning), most cats will not show a preference for either box type. The observation that a minority of cats in the study exhibited a preference supports the recommendation of providing individual cats with a ‘cafeteria’ of litter box styles, including a covered box, to determine whether such a preference exists. These findings add to existing literature on the topic of feline inappropriate elimination and provide additional information for clinicians recommending treatment options for cats exhibiting this behavior.
Parents’ emotional intelligence and children’s type I diabetes management
Authors: Zysberg Leehu , Lang Tally , Zisberg Anna
Published: October 2012

We hypothesized that parents’ emotional intelligence associates with their children’s type I diabetes outcomes. Eighty-one parents, the main caregivers of their diabetic children, filled out two measures of emotional intelligence and a demographic questionnaire. Three indicators of diabetes management were collected from the patients’ files: hemoglobin A1c, mean blood tests per day, and mean blood glucose levels. Emotional intelligence associated with all glycemic management indices, though differences were found between the two measures. Of the demographic factors, income level showed some association with the outcome measures. The results are discussed in light of existing theories and models.
Evaluation of enalapril affecting the renin-angiotensin system in normal and stress-induced rats based on urinary metabolites of amines and cortisol
Authors: Kumar KV Anil , Satyanarayana Sreemantula , Kumar Kilari Eswar
Published: October 2012

Introduction:

The renin-angiotensin system is distributed centrally as well as peripherally, which works in association with SNS and HPA in stress. Angiotensin is considered one of the principal hormones for bringing out stress-related changes. To find the influence of enalapril on the neuromediator of CNS and periphery, the present work was carried out. The assessment of the transmitter levels was done by estimating major urinary stress metabolites like vanillylmandelic acid, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, 6-β-hydroxycortisol and homovanillic acid in normal and stress-induced conditions and also in the absence and presence of enalapril treatment in rats.

Materials and methods:

Groups of rats were subjected to a forced swim stress one hour after daily treatment of enalapril. The 24 h urinary excretion of vanillylmandelic acid, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid, 6-β-hydroxycortisol and homovanillic acid was determined in all groups under normal and stressed-induced conditions.

Results:

Daily administration of enalapril at doses of 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg/body weight inhibited the stress-induced urinary biochemical changes. However, treatment with enalapril in normal conditions increased the excretion of all selected metabolites.

Conclusion:

It can be speculated that enalapril prevented stress-induced increases of adrenergic, serotonergic and cortical mechanisms.
Academic investigator-initiated trials and the challenge of sponsor responsibility: the Cologne Sponsor Model
Authors: Georgias Christine , Grunow Andrea , Olderog Miriam , May Alexander , Paulus Ursula
Published: October 2012

Background

With the amendment to the German Drug Law in 2004, the conduct of clinical trials changed by at least two main aspects: (1) The principles of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) were implemented in the national legislation, and (2) for the first time, the function of the sponsor of a clinical trial and the clinical trial itself have become legally binding definitions. By that, legal differences between industrial and academic clinical trials no longer exist. Clinical trials initiated by investigators have to fulfil the same requirements while the entire sponsor responsibility has to be carried out by the Coordinating Investigator or his institution including implementation of a quality management system according to the GCP.

Purpose

The Cologne Sponsor Model is an effective approach with settings, structures, basic features, action, and reporting lines, as well as funding for clinical trials initiated in an academic environment.

Results

The University of Cologne assumes the sponsor responsibility for clinical trials organised by the university researchers according to law. Sponsor’s duties are delegated to a central operational unit of the sponsor – the Clinical Trials Center Cologne – which further delegates duties to the Coordinating Investigator. Clinical Trials Center Cologne was established in 2002 to support the performance of clinical trials at the university by offering comprehensive advisory and practical services covering all aspects of study planning and conduct. Furthermore, a specialised division of its quality management department acts as an independent sponsor’s Quality Assurance Unit. The Clinical Trials Center Cologne has established a quality management system consisting of different components (1) to enable a reasoned decision to subsequent delegation, (2) for risk-based surveillance of trial conduct (audits, monitoring-checks, and reports), and (3) support and training of the Coordinating Investigator.

Limitations

Double functions of persons and departments in the university environment sometimes make it difficult to define roles in such a model. Therefore, it is necessary to establish clear reporting lines and moreover to monitor regularly and carefully the roles and responsibilities.

Conclusions

With the combination of central management and support, control and independence of the researchers, our model represents a ‘risk-based’ system that offers a sensible option that fulfils the requirements of legal regulations and GCP for trials organised within the university environment.
Bridging crime and immigration: Minority signification in Japanese newspaper reports of the 2003 Fukuoka family murder case
Authors: Yamamoto Ryoko
Published: October 2012

This article analyzes media representation of minority offenders, and argues that media practice associates a minority status with criminal propensity through a process of minority signification. The focal point of the analysis is newspaper reporting of the 2003 Fukuoka family murder in Japan, in which three students from China killed a Japanese family. Close examination of two major Japanese newspapers suggests that their reporting of the Fukuoka case connects crime and a minority group in two ways. First, the newspapers frequently utilize nationality and immigration status as descriptors of the Fukuoka case suspects, and thus encourage an intuitive mental connection between foreignness and crime. Furthermore, opinion pieces and editorial articles interpret the murder in the context of immigration policies and the financial hardship often experienced by international students, suggesting that the Fukuoka case is one manifestation of international student criminality. The article concludes that signification of nationality and immigration status in the media may help explain the disparity between the relatively minor presence of foreign national offenders in Japan’s crime scene and their major presence in the Japanese crime discourse.
The cross-contamination potential of mobile telephones
Authors: White Stephen , Topping Annie , Humphreys Paul , Rout Simon , Williamson Hanna
Published: October 2012

The use of mobile devices for professional, business, educational, personal and social purposes has accelerated exponentially over the last decade. Staff working in healthcare organisations, and patients and visitors using healthcare settings, understandably want to use mobile technology. Concerns have been raised about safety in terms of interference with equipment, and threats to privacy and dignity, yet less policy attention has been paid to infection risks.

Healthcare professional students were supplied with smartphones as part of a larger educational project. Devices collected from a sub-sample of students working in operating theatre contexts were sampled to estimate the cross-contamination potential of the technology. A longitudinal multiple measures design was used. Under laboratory conditions, samples were taken from surfaces using swabbing techniques followed by contact plating. The devices were subsequently cleaned with 70% isopropyl alcohol and returned to the students.

All devices demonstrated microbial contamination and over three quarters (86%) polymicrobial contamination. The technique and sites used to sample for microbial contamination influenced the levels of contamination identified. Swabbing alone was less likely to isolate polymicrobial contamination than contact plating, and some microorganisms were isolated only by contact plates and not by swabbing of the same area.

The findings from this study demonstrate further research is urgently needed to inform evidence-based infection control policy on the use of personal equipment such as mobile devices in the healthcare settings where contamination may have adverse effects on patients, staff and visitors.
Ulnar nerve strain at the elbow in patients with cubital tunnel syndrome: effect of simple decompression
Authors: Ochi K. , Horiuchi Y , Nakamura T. , Sato K. , Arino H. , Koyanagi T.
Published: October 2012

Simple decompression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow has not been shown to reduce nerve strain in cadavers. In this study, ulnar nerve strain at the elbow was measured intraoperatively in 11 patients with cubital tunnel syndrome, before and after simple decompression. Statistical analysis was performed using a paired Student’s t-test. Mean ulnar nerve strain before and after simple decompression was 30.5% (range 9% to 69%) and 5.5% (range −2% to 11%), respectively; this difference was statistically significant ( p < 0.01) with a statistical power of 96%. Simple decompression reduced ulnar nerve strain in all patients by an average of 24.5%. Our results suggest that the pathophysiology of cubital tunnel syndrome may be multifactorial, being neither a simple compression neuropathy nor a simple traction neuropathy, and simple decompression may be a favourable surgical procedure for cubital tunnel syndrome in terms of decompression and reduction of strain in the ulnar nerve.
Just a personal thing? A qualitative account of health behaviours and values associated with body piercing
Authors: Randall Jason A , Sheffield David
Published: October 2012

Objectives:

This study investigates the perceptions of individuals with body piercings in relation to health behaviours and values specifically taking into account piercing location.

Methods:

A qualitative study that employed a series of in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews using thematic analysis to analyse data. Nine individuals with a range of piercings were recruited and semi-structured interviews were carried out in a West Midlands piercing studio.

Results:

The analysis identified themes relating to the presence of body piercings that included a range of health-related outcomes such as physical appearance, health behaviours, addiction and impressions. A possible relationship between oral piercings and ‘crash dieting’ was also identified.

Conclusions:

The results suggest that from the comments made the presence of body piercings is not related to any particular health concern, which is instead comparable to the general population. These results contradict previous studies citing a relationship with high-risk health behaviours. Further large-scale studies examining these findings are warranted.
The Association Between Body Metrics and Breakfast Food Choice in Children
Authors: Miller Kevin B. , Liska DeAnn J. , Fulgoni Victor L.
Published: October 2012

Purpose. Ready-to-eat cereal (RTEC) consumption has been associated with better nutrient intakes and anthropometric end points compared with breakfast skipping and other breakfasts. Our objective was to evaluate RTEC breakfast type (presweetened and nonpresweetened) on physiological end points. Methods. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003-2006 data were analyzed using SUDAAN. Participants (n = 6729; 2-17 years) were separated into groups based on breakfast habits as follows: presweetened RTEC (PS-RTEC); nonpresweetened RTEC (NPS-RTEC); breakfast skippers (SKs); other breakfasts (OBs). Presweetened was defined as ≥9 g of added sugars per serving. Results. No differences were found for weight, BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, or lipids in children consuming PS-RTECs or NPS-RTECs. In children 12 to 17 years old, BMI and percentage of children overweight or obese were lower for consumers of PS-RTECs at breakfast compared with SK or OB groups. Skinfolds were significantly lower in PS-RTEC versus SK or OB groups. SK and OB children (12-17 years old) were nearly twice as likely to be overweight or obese as compared with children consuming PS-RTECs (odds ratio of 1.87 and 2.12, respectively). Conclusion. Consumption of breakfast cereal with higher or lower added sugar was not associated with unhealthy physiological end points in children. The study confirms the association between RTEC consumption and healthier body weights compared with children and adolescents skipping or consuming a non-RTEC breakfast.
Cost-effectiveness of ethyl-eicosapentaenoic acid in the treatment of bipolar disorder
Authors: Cheema Nadir , Frangou Sophia , McCrone Paul
Published: October 2012

Background:

This study develops an economic model to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of ethyl-eicosapentaenoic acid (ethyl-EPA) as an adjunct treatment of bipolar I disorder.

Methods:

A 1-year Markov model is used incorporating three health states: euthymic, manic and depressive. The model was populated using outcomes from a clinical trial on clinical efficacy and other published literature.

Results:

The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) of ethyl-EPA in comparison with placebo was estimated to be -£2,782 in 2008/09 prices, the negative ICER indicating ethyl-EPA to be a more effective and less costly treatment option than placebo in terms of cost savings of other resource use.

Conclusions:

The sensitivity analysis indicated that the results were robust. Future research covering a longer time period using broader costs of the disease will be required to consolidate these findings.
Ancient Digs and Modern Myths: The Age and Context of the Kent's Cavern 4 Maxilla and the EarliestHomo sapiensSpecimens in Europe
Authors: White Mark , Pettitt Paul
Published: October 2012

Recent anatomical analyses of a human maxilla found in 1927 in the Vestibule at Kent's Cavern, Devon, UK, have been interpreted as confirming its taxonomic status asHomo sapiens, while Bayesian modelling of dated fauna apparently ‘associated’ with it has been interpreted as suggesting a calendar age for the maxilla of around 44,200–41,500 years BP, rendering it the earliest fossil evidence for modern human presence in Northern Europe. In this paper, we examine fully the circumstances of the maxilla's discovery, data not previously considered. Based mostly on archival and limited published materials, as well as knowledge of the cave's stratigraphy, we provide a detailed examination of the context of the maxilla and associated finds. We urge caution over using a small selected sample of fauna from an old and poorly executed excavation in Kent's Cavern to provide a radiocarbon stratigraphy and age for a human fossil that cannot be dated directly, and we suggest that the recent dating should be rejected. We place our evaluation in the wider context of the dating of European early anatomically modern humans.
Comparative phylogenomics of Streptococcus pneumoniae isolated from invasive disease and nasopharyngeal carriage from West Africans
Authors: Donkor Eric S , Stabler Richard A , Hinds Jason , Adegbola Richard A , Antonio Martin , Wren Brendan W
Published: October 2012

Background

We applied comparative phylogenomics (whole genome comparisons of microbes using DNA microarrays combined with Bayesian-based phylogenies) to investigate S. pneumoniae isolates from West Africa, with the aim of providing insights into the pathogenicity and other features related to the biology of the organism. The strains investigated comprised a well defined collection of 58 invasive and carriage isolates that were sequenced typed and included eight different S. pneumoniae serotypes (1, 3, 5, 6A, 11, 14, 19 F and 23 F) of varying invasive disease potential.

Results

The core genome of the isolates was estimated to be 38% and was mainly represented by gene functional categories associated with housekeeping functions. Comparison of the gene content of invasive and carriage isolates identified at least eleven potential genes that may be important in virulence including surface proteins, transport proteins, transcription factors and hypothetical proteins. Thirteen accessory regions (ARs) were also identified and did not show any loci association with the eleven virulence genes. Intraclonal diversity (isolates of the same serotype and MLST but expressing different patterns of ARs) was observed among some clones including ST 1233 (serotype 5), ST 3404 (serotype 5) and ST 3321 (serotype 14). A constructed phylogenetic tree of the isolates showed a high level of heterogeneity consistent with the frequent S. pneumoniae recombination. Despite this, a homogeneous clustering of all the serotype 1 strains was observed.

Conclusions

Comparative phylogenomics of invasive and carriage S. pneumoniae isolates identified a number of putative virulence determinants that may be important in the progression of S. pneumoniae from the carriage phase to invasive disease. Virulence determinants that contribute to S. pneumoniae pathogenicity are likely to be distributed randomly throughout its genome rather than being clustered in dedicated loci or islands. Compared to other S. pneumoniae serotypes, serotype 1 appears most genetically uniform.
Clinical validation of S100B use in management of mild head injury
Authors: Calcagnile Olga , Undén Linda , Undén Johan
Published: October 2012

Background

Despite validated guidelines, management of mild head injury (MHI) is still associated with excessive computed tomography (CT) scanning. Reports concerning serum levels of S100B have shown promise concerning safe reduction in CT scanning but clinical validation and actual impact on patient management is unclear. In 2007, S100B was introduced into emergency department (ED) clinical management routines in Halmstad, Sweden. MHI patients with low (<0.10 mikrogram/L) levels of S100B could be discharged without CT. Our aim was to examine the clinical impact and performance of S100B in clinical use for MHI patients.

Methods

Adult ([≥]18 years) patients with MHI (GCS 14–15, loss of consciousness and/or amnesia and no additional risk factors) and S100B sampling within 3 hours were prospectively included in this validation study. Patients were managed according to the adapted guidelines and management was documented. Outcome was determined with a questionnaire 3 months post-trauma and medical records to identify significant intracranial complications such as new neuroimaging, neurosurgery and/or death related to the trauma.

Results

512 patients were included. 24 (4.7%) showed traumatic abnormalities on CT and 1 patient died (0.2%). 138 patients (27%) had normal S100B levels and 374 patients (73%) showed elevated S100B levels. No patients with a normal S100B level showed significant intracranial complication. 44 patients (32%) were managed with CT despite the guidelines recommending discharge (all these CT scans were normal) and 28 patients (7%) were discharged despite a CT recommendation (follow-up was normal in all these patients). S100B had a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI 83-100%) and a specificity of 28% (95% CI 24-33%) for significant intracranial complications.

Conclusion

The clinical use of S100B within our existing guidelines for management of MHI is safe and effective. Adult MHI patients, without additional risk factors and with normal S100B levels within 3 hours of injury, can safely be discharged from the hospital.
Intimate partner violence and use of reproductive health services among married women: evidence from a national Bangladeshi sample
Authors: Rahman Mosiur , Nakamura Keiko , Seino Kaoruko , Kizuki Masashi
Published: October 2012

Background

Data from a statewide survey in India and clinic-based studies in developed settings have previously suggested an association between maternal physical intimate partner violence (IPV) experiences and the low use of antenatal care (ANC). This study aimed to explore the association between maternal experiences of physical and sexual IPV and the use of reproductive health care services, using a large nationally representative data set from Bangladesh.

Methods

This paper used data from the 2007 Bangladesh Demographic Health Survey. The analyses were based on the responses of 2001currently married women living with at least one child younger than 5 years. Exposure was determined from maternal reports of physical and sexual IPV. The utilization of ANC according to amount and type of provider and utilization of delivery assistance according to provider type were used as proxy outcome variables for reproductive health care utilization. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression analysis used in the study.

Results

Approximately two out of four (48.2%) respondents had experienced physical IPV. Maternal experience of physical IPV was associated with low use of receiving sufficient ANC (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.69; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.49–0.96), lower likelihood of receiving ANC (AOR 0.69; 95% CI 0.53–0.89), and assisted deliveries from skilled provider (AOR 0.54; 95% CI 0.37–0.78). Women who had been sexually abused were significantly less likely to have visited a skilled ANC and delivery care provider. Furthermore, severity of physical IPV appeared to have more profound consequences on the outcome measured.

Conclusions

The association between exposure to IPV and use of reproductive health care services suggests that partner violence plays a significant role in lower utilization of reproductive health services among women in Bangladesh. Our findings suggest that, in addition to a wide range of socio-demographic factors, preventing maternal physical and sexual IPV need to be considered as an important psychosocial determinates for the higher utilization of reproductive health care services in Bangladesh.
Positive solution of singular BVPs for a system of dynamic equations on time scales
Authors: Lago Ariadna , Otero-Espinar Victoria , Pernas Tania
Published: October 2012

This paper is devoted to derivation of some necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of positive solutions to a singular second-order system of dynamic equations with Dirichlet boundary conditions. The results are obtained by employing fixed-point theorems and the method of lower and upper solutions.

MSC:34B16, 34K10, 39A13.
The role of infections and coinfections with newly identified and emerging respiratory viruses in children
Authors: Debiaggi Maurizia , Canducci Filippo , Ceresola Elisa Rita , Clementi Massimo
Published: October 2012

Acute respiratory infections are a major cause of morbidity in children both in developed and developing countries. A wide range of respiratory viruses, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza A and B viruses, parainfluenza viruses (PIVs), adenovirus, rhinovirus (HRV), have repeatedly been detected in acute lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in children in the past decades. However, in the last ten years thanks to progress in molecular technologies, newly discovered viruses have been identified including human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), coronaviruses NL63 (HcoV-NL63) and HKU1 (HcoV-HKU1), human Bocavirus (HBoV), new enterovirus (HEV), parechovirus (HpeV) and rhinovirus (HRV) strains, polyomaviruses WU (WUPyV) and KI (KIPyV) and the pandemic H1N1v influenza A virus. These discoveries have heavily modified previous knowledge on respiratory infections mainly highlighting that pediatric population is exposed to a variety of viruses with similar seasonal patterns. In this context establishing a causal link between a newly identified virus and the disease as well as an association between mixed infections and an increase in disease severity can be challenging. This review will present an overview of newly recognized as well as the main emerging respiratory viruses and seek to focus on the their contribution to infection and co-infection in LRTIs in childhood.
Transcript mapping of Cotton leaf curl Burewala virusand its cognate betasatellite, Cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite
Authors: Akbar Fazal , Briddon Rob W , Vazquez Franck , Saeed Muhammad
Published: October 2012

Background

Whitefly-transmitted geminiviruses (family Geminiviridae, genus Begomovirus) are major limiting factors for the production of numerous dicotyledonous crops throughout the warmer regions of the world. In the Old World a small number of begomoviruses have genomes consisting of two components whereas the majority have single-component genomes. Most of the monopartite begomoviruses associate with satellite DNA molecules, the most important of which are the betasatellites. Cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD) is one of the major problems for cotton production on the Indian sub-continent. Across Pakistan, CLCuD is currently associated with a single begomovirus (Cotton leaf curl Burewala virus [CLCuBuV]) and the cotton-specific betasatellite Cotton leaf curl Multan betasatellite (CLCuMuB), both of which have recombinant origins. Surprisingly, CLCuBuV lacks C2, one of the genes present in all previously characterized begomoviruses. Virus-specific transcripts have only been mapped for few begomoviruses, including one monopartite begomovirus that does not associate with betasatellites. Similarly, the transcripts of only two betasatellites have been mapped so far. The study described has investigated whether the recombination/mutation events involved in the evolution of CLCuBuV and its associated CLCuMuB have affected their transcription strategies.

Results

The major transcripts of CLCuBuV and its associated betasatellite (CLCuMuB) from infected Nicotiana benthamiana plants have been determined. Two complementary-sense transcripts of ~1.7 and ~0.7 kb were identified for CLCuBuV. The ~1.7 kb transcript appears similar in position and size to that of several begomoviruses and likely directs the translation of C1 and C4 proteins. Both complementary-sense transcripts can potentially direct the translation of C2 and C3 proteins. A single virion-sense transcript of ~1 kb, suitable for translation of the V1 and V2 genes was identified. A predominant complementary-sense transcript was also confirmed for the betasatellite.

Conclusions

Overall, the transcription of CLCuBuV and the recombinant CLCuMuB is equivalent to earlier mapped begomoviruses/betasatellites. The recombination events that featured in the origins of these components had no detectable effects on transcription. The transcripts spanning the mutated C2 gene showed no evidence for involvement of splicing in restoring the ability to express intact C2 protein.
Compromised quality of life in adult patients who have received a radiation dose towards the basal part of the brain. A case-control study in long-term survivors from cancer in the head and neck region
Authors: Löfdahl Elisabet , Berg Gertrud , Johansson Karl-Axel , Zachrisson Maria Leonsson , Malmgren Helge , Mercke Claes , Olsson Erik , Wiren Lena , Johannsson Gudmundur
Published: October 2012

Background

Adult patients with hypothalamic-pituitary disorders have compromised quality of life (QoL). Whether this is due to their endocrine consequences (hypopituitarism), their underlying hypothalamic-pituitary disorder or both is still under debate. The aim of this trial was to measure quality of life (QoL) in long-term cancer survivors who have received a radiation dose to the basal part of the brain and the pituitary.

Methods

Consecutive patients (n=101) treated for oropharyngeal or epipharyngeal cancer with radiotherapy followed free of cancer for a period of 4 to10 years were identified. Fifteen patients (median age 56 years) with no concomitant illness and no hypopituitarism after careful endocrine evaluation were included in a case-control study with matched healthy controls. Doses to the hypothalamic-pituitary region were calculated. QoL was assessed using the Symptom check list (SCL)-90, Nottingham Health Profile (NHP), and Psychological Well Being (PGWB) questionnaires. Level of physical activity was assessed using the Baecke questionnaire.

Results

The median accumulated dose was 1.9 Gy (1.5–2.2 Gy) to the hypothalamus and 2.4 Gy (1.8–3.3 Gy) to the pituitary gland in patients with oropharyngeal cancer and 6.0–9.3 Gy and 33.5–46.1 Gy, respectively in patients with epipharyngeal cancer (n=2). The patients showed significantly more anxiety and depressiveness, and lower vitality, than their matched controls.

Conclusion

In a group of long time survivors of head and neck cancer who hade received a low radiation dose to the hypothalamic-pituitary region and who had no endocrine consequences of disease or its treatment QoL was compromised as compared with well matched healthy controls.
Multi-compartmental modeling of SORLA’s influence on amyloidogenic processing in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Lao Angelyn , Schmidt Vanessa , Schmitz Yvonne , Willnow Thomas E , Wolkenhauer Olaf
Published: October 2012

Background

Proteolytic breakdown of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) by secretases is a complex cellular process that results in formation of neurotoxic Aβ peptides, causative of neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Processing involves monomeric and dimeric forms of APP that traffic through distinct cellular compartments where the various secretases reside. Amyloidogenic processing is also influenced by modifiers such as sorting receptor-related protein (SORLA), an inhibitor of APP breakdown and major AD risk factor.

Results

In this study, we developed a multi-compartment model to simulate the complexity of APP processing in neurons and to accurately describe the effects of SORLA on these processes. Based on dose–response data, our study concludes that SORLA specifically impairs processing of APP dimers, the preferred secretase substrate. In addition, SORLA alters the dynamic behavior of β-secretase, the enzyme responsible for the initial step in the amyloidogenic processing cascade.

Conclusions

Our multi-compartment model represents a major conceptual advance over single-compartment models previously used to simulate APP processing; and it identified APP dimers and β-secretase as the two distinct targets of the inhibitory action of SORLA in Alzheimer’s disease.
A multidisciplinary clinical treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer complicated with rectovesical fistula: a case report
Authors: Zhan Tiancheng , Wang Lin , Li Ming , Li Zhongwu , Cai Yong , Shen Lin , Gu Jin
Published: October 2012

Introduction

Rectal cancer with rectovesical fistula is a rare and difficult to treat entity. Here, we describe a case of rectal cancer with rectovesical fistula successfully managed by multimodality treatment. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first such case report in the literature.

Case presentation

A 51-year-old Chinese man was diagnosed as having rectal cancer accompanied by rectovesical fistula. He underwent treatment with neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy combined with total pelvic excision and adjuvant chemotherapy, as recommended by a multimodality treatment team. Post-operative pathology confirmed the achievement of pathological complete response.

Conclusions

This case suggests that a proactive multidisciplinary treatment is needed to achieve complete cure of locally advanced rectal cancer even in the presence of rectovesical fistula.
Case report: When measured free T4 and free T3 may be misleading. Interference with free thyroid hormones measurements on Roche® and Siemens® platforms
Authors: Lewandowski Krzysztof C , Dąbrowska Katarzyna , Lewiński Andrzej
Published: October 2012

A 59-year old female patient presented with apathy and 6 kg weight gain. Investigations revealed severe primary hypothyroidism (TSH>100 μIU/ml). L-thyroxine (L-T4) was started and titrated up to 75 μg, once daily, with clinical improvement. Other investigations revealed very high titres of anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin (anti-Tg) antibodies. After three months, there was a fall in TSH to 12.74 μIU/ml, however, with unexpectedly high free T4 (FT4) - 6.8 ng/ml and free T3 (FT3) - 6.7 pg/ml concentrations [reference range (rr): 0.8-1.9 ng/ml and 1.5-4.1 pg/ml (Siemens®), respectively]. At this stage L-T4 was stopped, and this was followed by a rapid increase in TSH (to 77.76 μIU/ml) and some decrease in FT4 and FT3, however FT4 concentration remained elevated (2.1 ng/ml). Following this, L-T4 was restarted. On admission to our Department, she was clinically euthyroid on L-T4, 88 μg, once daily. Investigations on Roche® platform confirmed mildly elevated TSH - 5.14 (rr: 0.27-4.2 μIU/ml) with high FT4 [4.59 (rr: 0.93-1.7 ng/ml)] and FT3 [4.98 (rr: 2.6-4.4 pg/ml)] concentrations. Other tests revealed hypoechogenic ultrasound pattern typical for Hashimoto thyroiditis. There was no discrepancy in calculated TSH value following TSH dilution (101% recovery). Concentrations of FT4 and FT3 were assessed on the day of discontinuation of L-T4 and after four days by the means of Abbott® Architect I 1000SR platform. These revealed FT4 and FT3 concentrations within the reference range [e.g., FT4 - 1.08 ng/ml (rr: 0.7-1.48)] vs 4.59 ng/ml (rr: 0.93-1.7, Roche®), FT3 - 3.70 pg/ml (rr: 1.71-3.71) vs 4.98 (rr: 2.6-4.4, Roche®)], confirming assay interference. Concentrations of ferritin and SHBG were normal.

Conclusions

Clinicians must be aware of possible assay interference, including the measurements of FT4 and FT3 in the differential diagnosis of abnormal results of thyroid function tests that do not fit the patient clinical presentation.
Effects of IMOD™ and Angipars™ on mouse D-galactose-induced model of aging
Authors: Ghanbari Samane , Yonessi Mahsa , Mohammadirad Azadeh , Gholami Mahdi , Baeeri Maryam , Khorram-Khorshid Hamid Reza , Gharibdoost Farhad , Abdollahi Mohammad
Published: October 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of two registered herbal drugs called IMOD and Angipars on mouse model. Aging was induced by D-galactose (500 mg/kg) administered to animals for 6 weeks through drinking water. Male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into 5 groups receiving D-galactose (D-galactose, 500 mg/kg) for 6 weeks; positive control (D-galactose [500 mg/kg] for 6 weeks + Vitamin E [200 mg/kg/day] intraperitoneally for 4 weeks); IMOD (D-galactose [500 mg/kg] for 6 weeks + IMOD [20 mg/kg/day] intraperitoneally for 4 weeks), Angipars (D-galactose [500 mg/kg] for 6 weeks + Angipars [2.1 mg/kg/day] by gavage for 4 weeks); and the fifth group that was sham and not given D-galactose. At the end of treatment, pro-inflammatory markers including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interlukine-1β (IL-β), interlukine-6 (IL-6), Nuclear Factor-kappaB (NF-κb), total antioxidant power (TAP), lipid peroxides (LPO) and male sex hormones i.e. testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEA-S) were measured in the blood.

Results showed that D-Galactose induces a significant oxidative stress and proinflammatory cascade of aging while both IMOD and Angipars recovered all of them. Interestingly, IMOD and Angipars were better than Vitamin E in improving male sex hormones in aged mice. This effect is so important and should be considered as an advantage although it cannot be explained with current knowledge. The conclusion is that IMOD and Angipars have marked anti-aging effect on D-galactose-induced model of aging.
Effects of soybean isoflavones on reproductive parameters in Chinese mini-pig boars
Authors: Yuan Xiao-xue , Zhang Bin , Li Li-li , Xiao Chao-wu , Fan Jue-xin , Geng Mei-mei , Yin Yu-long
Published: October 2012

Background

Soybean isoflavones are structurally similar to mammalian estrogens and therefore may act as estrogen agonists or antagonists. However, it has not been determined if they have any negative effects on reproductive parameters in male livestock. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of soybean isoflavones on male reproduction using Chinese mini-pig boars as a model. Fifty Xiang boars were randomly divided into five groups and fed diets containing 0, 125, 250, or 500 ppm soybean isoflavones or 0.5 ppm diethylstilbestrol for 60 days.

Results

Dietary supplementation with 250 ppm of soy isoflavones markedly increased the testis index (P< 0.05), fructose content (P< 0.05), and α-glycosidase content in testicular tissue (P< 0.01), as well as increased the number of viable germ cells (P< 0.01) and the level of Bcl-2 protein (P< 0.01). However, 500 ppm of soybean isoflavones significantly reduced both testis and epididymis indexes (P< 0.05) and lactate dehydrogenase levels (P< 0.01), as well as reduced serum LH and testosterone levels (P< 0.05). High levels of soybean isoflavones also increased malondialdehyde levels (P< 0.05), as well as increased the numbers of early and late apoptotic germ cells (P< 0.01) and the level of Bax proteins (P< 0.05) in the testis.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that consumption of soy isoflavones at dietary levels up to 250 ppm did not adversely affect reproductive parameters in Chinese mini-pig boars whereas higher levels of soy isoflavones may adversely affect male reproduction.
Efficient production of polymer-grade L-lactic acid from corn stover hydrolyzate by thermophilic Bacillus sp. strain XZL4
Authors: Xue Zhangwei , Wang Limin , Ju Jiansong , Yu Bo , Xu Ping , Ma Yanhe
Published: October 2012

Lactic acid has been identified as one of the top 30 potential building-block chemicals from biomass. Therefore, the search for cheap raw materials is an objective to reduce the production costs. Efficient polymer-grade L-lactic acid production was achieved in this report by a thermophilic strain Bacillus sp. XZL4 using corn stover hydrolyzate as sole carbon source. High L-lactic acid concentration (81.0 g L-1) was obtained from 162.5 g L-1 concentrated corn stover hydrolyzate (total reducing sugar of 83.0 g L-1) with a volumetric productivity of 1.86 g L-1 h-1 (0–36 h) and a product yield of 0.98 g g-1 total reducing sugars. This is the highest L-lactic acid concentration and yield reported from corn stover hydrolyzate. And the high optical purity of L-lactic acid obtained in this study also indicated that Bacillus sp. XZL4 is a promising polymer-grade L-lactic-acid producer from cellulosic biomass.