bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Adolescent Drug Users Fare the Worst? Onset Type, Juvenile Delinquency, and Criminal Careers
Authors: DeLisi Matt , Angton Alexia , Behnken Monic P. , Kusow Abdi M.
Published: September 2013

Although substance abuse often accompanies delinquency and other forms of antisocial behavior, there is less scholarly agreement about the timing of substance use vis-à-vis an individual’s antisocial trajectory. Similarly, although there is extraordinary evidence that onset is inversely related to the severity of the criminal career, there is surprisingly little research on the offense type of onset or the type of antisocial behavior that was displayed when an individual initiated his or her offending career. Drawing on data from a sample of serious adult criminal offenders ( N = 500), the current study examined 12 forms of juvenile delinquency (murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny, auto theft, arson, weapons, sexual offense, drug sales, and drug use) in addition to age at arrest onset, age, sex, race to explore their association with chronicity (total arrests), extreme chronicity (1 SD above the mean which was equivalent to 90 career arrests), and lambda (offending per year). The only onset offense type that was significantly associated with all criminal career outcomes was juvenile drug use. Additional research on the offense type of delinquent onset is needed to understand launching points of serious antisocial careers.
Framing Human Rights and Cultural Diversity Training in Social Work Classrooms—the Case of Female Marriage Immigrants in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Hsin-Yi , Tang I-Chen , Liu Pang-Li
Published: September 2013

Immigration from marriage has been on the increase in Taiwan since the 1980s.There are more and more foreign women from Southeast Asian countries that have married Taiwanese men. After foreign spouses arrive in Taiwan, they face difficulties such as spousal abuse and social stigma.

We should be aware that social work undergraduates can be culturally insensitive and may harbor unintentional discrimination toward these immigrants. We propose a module of introducing human rights, cultural diversity and female marriage immigrants into a social work curriculum. This framework is to spread social work education to a new area, namely, human rights.
When Dad Stays Home Too
Authors: Rehel Erin M.
Published: September 2013

Drawing from 85 semi-structured interviews with fathers and mothers in three cities (Montreal, Toronto, and Chicago), I argue that when fathers in heterosexual couples experience the transition to parenthood in ways that are structurally comparable to mothers, they come to think about and enact parenting in ways that are more similar to mothers. I consider the specific role played by extended time off immediately after the birth of a child in structuring that experience. By drawing fathers into the daily realities of child care, free of workplace constraints, extended time off provides the space necessary for fathers to develop the parenting skills and sense of responsibility that then allows them to be active co-parents rather than helpers to their female partners. This shift from a manager-helper dynamic to that of coparenting creates the opportunity for the development of a more gender-equitable division of labor.
“Should I Send a Condolence Card?” Promoting Emotional Safety in Qualitative Health Research Through Reflexivity and Ethical Mindfulness
Authors: Bowtell Evelyn C. , Sawyer Susan M. , Aroni Rosalie A. , Green Julie B. , Duncan Rony E.
Published: September 2013

We present a case study involving the unexpected deaths of two young people whose parents were taking part in a qualitative study concerning adolescents with chronic disease. We explore and highlight the ethically important moments, both procedural and emotional, and the implications for the research team, the ethics committee, and for qualitative health researchers more broadly. Our reflections are drawn from team discussion and analysis of the trainee researcher’s responses to the situation. We focus on (a) reflexivity and ethical mindfulness as a strategy for enhancing emotional safety, (b) the concept of emotional safety for qualitative researchers, and (c) the procedural issues and emotional responses that led to engagement with the human research ethics committee and resulting changes in policy. The article concludes by proposing recommendations for the promotion of emotional safety in qualitative health research that is relevant for researchers, especially trainee researchers, as well as ethics committees.
Body of Research
Authors: Turner Paaige K. , Norwood Kristen M.
Published: September 2013

The ways our physicality matters as we move through the world in our own bodies of research is often veiled in the body of qualitative research. In this article, we lift the veil, striving to flesh out the body of research on reflexivity by examining how our own researcher bodies have figured into our work. Specifically, we narrate and reflect on ways we have experienced our bodies as (presumed) impetus for, instrument of, and impediment to qualitative research concerning birthing, breastfeeding, and transgender identities. We explore how our insider/outsider bodies made for particularized yet parallel experiences, which together illustrate the complexity of the relationships between researcher, participant, and the creation of knowledge. From this, we suggest that qualitative researchers examine how their bodies/selves might muddy traditional research roles and rules. Finally, we propose Mixed bodies triangulation, as a way to bring together different ways of knowing in embodied, reflexive research.
Grafting the Intentional Relation of Hermeneutics and Phenomenology in Linguisticality
Authors: Freeman Melissa , Vagle Mark D.
Published: September 2013

This article seeks to reposition two philosophies central to qualitative research: hermeneutics and phenomenology from their current location in the interpretive traditions to one closer to the critical and radical traditions we believe are more congruent. We hope to show that these philosophies are most productive for qualitative research when considered as “grafted,” such as in Hans-Georg Gadamer’s philosophical hermeneutics. By deepening two of these philosophies’ central constructs, intentionality and linguisticality, we not only make their ungrafting improbable, but also show the centrality of this hyphenated philosophy to qualitative research.
Morning and Evening Effects of Guanfacine Extended Release Adjunctive to Psychostimulants in Pediatric ADHD
Authors: Wilens Timothy E. , McBurnett Keith , Turnbow John , Rugino Thomas , White Carla , Youcha Sharon
Published: September 2013

Objective: To examine efficacy and safety of adjunctive guanfacine extended release (GXR) on morning and evening ADHD symptoms using the Conners’ Global Index–Parent (CGI-P) and Before-School Functioning Questionnaire (BSFQ). Method: Participants 6 to 17 years with ADHD ( N = 461) and suboptimal psychostimulant response were maintained on current psychostimulants and randomized to dose-optimized GXR (≤4 mg/d) in the morning (GXR AM) or evening (GXR PM), or placebo. Results: CGI-P scores improved with GXR (morning assessment, GXR AM, placebo-adjusted least squares [LS] mean = -1.7, GXR PM = -2.6; evening assessment, GXR AM = -2.4, GXR PM = -3.0; all ps < .01). Parent-rated BSFQ scores reflected improved morning functioning with GXR (GXR AM, placebo-adjusted LS mean = -5.1; GXR PM = -4.7; both ps < .01). Most adverse events were mild or moderate. Conclusion: Adjunctive GXR AM or GXR PM was associated with improvements in morning and evening ADHD symptoms in children and adolescents.
Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mulqueen Jilian M. , Bartley Christine A. , Bloch Michael H.
Published: September 2013

Objective: Although psychostimulants are commonly utilized to treat preschoolers with ADHD, side effects and parental preferences limit their use in younger children. The current meta-analysis examines the efficacy of parent interventions for the treatment of ADHD in preschoolers. Method: We searched PubMed and the Cochrane Library for randomized, controlled trials comparing behavioral interventions for preschool children with ADHD. Our primary outcome measure was mean improvement in an ADHD rating scale compared with control conditions. Results: Eight trials were included in the final analysis, totaling 399 participants. There was a significant benefit of parental behavioral interventions compared with control conditions (standardized mean difference [ SMD] = 0.61, 95% confidence interval = [0.40, 0.83], z = 5.6, p < .001). Conclusion: The present meta-analysis provides preliminary evidence that parental interventions are an efficacious treatment for preschool ADHD. Future research is needed to compare the relative efficacy of parental interventions for ADHD with medication management and to determine if the combination of parental training and medication management is more effective than either condition alone.
Psychiatric diagnoses and cognitive impairment in pediatric multiple sclerosis
Authors: Weisbrot Deborah , Charvet Leigh , Serafin Dana , Milazzo Maria , Preston Thomas , Cleary Rebecca , Moadel Tiffany , Seibert Michelle , Belman Anita , Krupp Lauren
Published: September 2013

Background:

Pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) represents approximately 5% of the MS population; information regarding clinical features is slowly accumulating. Cognitive and psychiatric impairments frequently occur, but remain poorly understood.

Objectives:

To describe psychiatric diagnoses among children with MS referred for psychiatric assessment and their relation to cognitive impairment.

Methods:

Forty-five pediatric MS patients (aged 8 to 17 years) were referred for outpatient psychiatric evaluation including a psychiatric interview (K-SADS), a clinician-based global assessment of functioning (Children’s Global Assessment Scale, CGAS), a neurologic examination including the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), and a neuropsychological test battery.

Results:

The most common categories of psychiatric diagnoses were anxiety disorders ( n=15), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, n=12), and mood disorders ( n=11). Cognitive impairment was classified in 20/25 (80%) of patients meeting criteria for a psychiatric disorder versus 11/20 (55%) of those without psychiatric disorder ( p=0.08). Those diagnosed with anxiety or mood disorder had the highest frequency of cognitive impairment, with a significantly higher rate when compared with those with psychiatric diagnoses in other categories ( p=0.05).

Conclusions:

A variety of psychiatric diagnoses can occur in children with pediatric MS. Many of these children also had cognitive impairment, particularly those in the mood and anxiety groups.
Goal-directed action control in children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Geurts Hilde M , de Wit Sanne
Published: September 2013

Repetitive behavior is a key characteristic of autism spectrum disorders. Our aim was to investigate the hypothesis that this abnormal behavioral repetition results from a tendency to over-rely on habits at the expense of flexible, goal-directed action. Twenty-four children with autism spectrum disorders and 24 age- and gender-matched controls (8–12 years) initially learned to give specific responses to different pictorial stimuli in order to gain valuable outcomes. Subsequently, in the “slips-of-action” test, some of these outcomes were no longer valuable. Children needed to refrain from responding when stimuli were shown that signaled the availability of those outcomes while continuing to respond for the still-valuable outcomes. Reliance on habits should lead to “slips of action” toward no longer valuable outcomes. Therefore, the children’s ability to respond selectively for still-valuable outcomes provides a measure of relative habitual versus goal-directed control. Two additional tasks were included to control for general task characteristics (i.e. working memory and inhibition). Children with autism spectrum disorders learned equally well as controls and were not impaired at flexibly adjusting their behavior to devaluation of the outcomes or stimuli. We found no evidence for a disruption in the balance between goal-directed and habitual behavioral control in children with autism spectrum disorders.
Young adults on disability benefits in 7 countries
Authors: Kaltenbrunner Bernitz Brita , Grees Nadja , Jakobsson Randers Marie , Gerner Ulla , Bergendorff Sisko
Published: September 2013

Background: This article, based on a study by the Swedish Social Insurance Inspectorate, describes the development of young adults receiving disability benefits due to reduced working capability, and the disability benefit systems in seven European countries; Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, the Netherlands, Sweden, and the UK. This comparative study mainly uses Sweden as a benchmark. Methods: Apart from a documentary and legal data collection and analysis, 26 semi-structured interviews were conducted with representatives of the responsible ministries and authorities in the studied countries. In addition, national and European data was collected. Results: There is an increasing trend of young adults, aged 19–29, on disability benefits in all studied countries. The most common diagnosis group among young adults on disability benefits is mental and behavioural disorders, ranging from 58% in the UK to 80% in Denmark. Conclusions: The comparison of the different disability benefit systems shows that there are relatively large national differences in terms of rules and regulations, the handling of disability benefit cases, and offered rehabilitation activities and other measures to support young adults on disability benefits to strengthen their working capability, and hence enable them to approach the labour market in the future. However, it is clear that these countries face similar challenges, and therefore there could be a lot to learn from European exchange of experiences and expertise in this area. This article identifies a number of measures of special interest to study and discusses further with regard to the further development of the Swedish system for disability benefits for young adults.
Combined eye-tracking and luminance measurements while driving on a rural road: Towards determining mesopic adaptation luminance
Authors: Cengiz C , Kotkanen H , Puolakka M , Lappi O , Lehtonen E , Halonen L , Summala H
Published: September 2013

In order to implement the recommended Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) system for mesopic photometry to roads, it is necessary to define the relevant visual field and adaptation luminance in night-time driving conditions. We measured three drivers’ eye tracking on a rural road at night and in daytime, and the simultaneous luminance for the corresponding parts of the scene on lit and unlit sections of the road at night. Fields of view with circular sizes of 1°, 5°, 10°, 15° and 20°, with the centre point at the mode of the gaze distributions of the drivers, were used as initial estimates of the visual adaptation field. In both the lit and unlit sections, the variation within subject and between subjects in the mean luminance decreased as the size of the circular field increased. However, the mean luminances of all of the circular fields in the unlit section were higher than in the lit section due to the use of high-beam headlights in the unlit section.
Restoring humanity in health and social care – Some suggestions
Authors: Gillon Raanan
Published: September 2013

This paper, based on a talk given at a conference on compassion in health care held at the Royal Society of Medicine in November 2012, argues that the ethical requirement for humanity in health care is obvious and needs little ethical analysis – the problem is to get the results of ethical reflection, ordinary humanity and everyday common sense, into everyday behaviour. The author offers some suggestions that might help to achieve this aim and bring back the human face of health and social care. These suggestions concern organisational structural changes (including `humanity objectives' in appraisal and reward schemes); individual attitudes (including self assessment of their own humanity in their work by all health and social care workers – `does my own practice manifest a human face?'); and a possible research agenda (and a concomitant effort to remind all health care research funders that `humanity is an integral component of medical, health and care research'. And the author proposes a standing high level `humanity task force' to implement and oversee Health Education England's recent `humanity mandate'.
Obesity in Bulgarian patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Dimov Dimo , Tacheva Tanya , Koychev Atanas , Ilieva Vanya , Prakova Gospodinka , Vlaykova Tatyana
Published: September 2013

It has been well defined that obesity is strongly linked with several respiratory symptoms and diseases, but no convincing evidence has been provided for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In the current study, we aim to assess the possible prevalence of obesity in patients with COPD in a cross-sectional case–control study of individuals from the region of Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, and to explore whether the body mass has some effect on the lung function of COPD patients. The study included 158 patients with COPD (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) II, III, and IV stages) and 123 individuals unaffected by the disease (control). A higher frequency of obesity compared to the controls (20.3%) was observed in patients with COPD (29.1%, p = 0.093), especially in those with GOLD II stage (37.7%, p = 0.009). Prevalence of obesity was highest in COPD GOLD II, followed by GOLD III and IV stages ( p = 0.068). When diabetes was considered as confounding factor, we found a significant prevalence of obesity in COPD patients than the controls with diabetes ( p = 0.031). Interestingly, there was a statistically significant moderate positive correlation between the body mass index and forced expiratory volume in one second as a percentage of predicted value in the whole patients’ group ( R = 0.295, p = 0.0002) as well as in the subgroups of GOLD II ( R = 0.257, p = 0.024) and GOLD III COPD ( R = 0.259, p = 0.031).The results of our study propose that the increased body mass, particularly obesity is frequent comorbidity to COPD, especially to less severe diseases. Moreover, the results suggest that the higher body weight may provide some protection against the impairment of lung functions in patients with stable COPD.
Unifying model of carpal mechanics based on computationally derived isometric constraints and rules-based motion – the stable central column theory
Authors: Sandow M. J. , Fisher T. J. , Howard C. Q. , Papas S.
Published: September 2013

This study was part of a larger project to develop a (kinetic) theory of carpal motion based on computationally derived isometric constraints. Three-dimensional models were created from computed tomography scans of the wrists of ten normal subjects and carpal spatial relationships at physiological motion extremes were assessed. Specific points on the surface of the various carpal bones and the radius that remained isometric through range of movement were identified. Analysis of the isometric constraints and intercarpal motion suggests that the carpus functions as a stable central column (lunate–capitate–hamate–trapezoid–trapezium) with a supporting lateral column (scaphoid), which behaves as a ‘two gear four bar linkage’. The triquetrum functions as an ulnar translation restraint, as well as controlling lunate flexion. The ‘trapezoid’-shaped trapezoid places the trapezium anterior to the transverse plane of the radius and ulna, and thus rotates the principal axis of the central column to correspond to that used in the ‘dart thrower’s motion’. This study presents a forward kinematic analysis of the carpus that provides the basis for the development of a unifying kinetic theory of wrist motion based on isometric constraints and rules-based motion.
The crystal arthropathies
Authors: Jones Robert A , Quilty Brian
Published: September 2013

Unlike many other forms of inflammatory arthritis, the crystal arthropathies are routinely diagnosed and managed in primary care. Gout, in particular, is relatively commonplace and rates of other types of crystal-related arthritis are predicted to increase. These are, therefore, conditions that GPs and trainees will regularly encounter during routine practice. While the clinical features and pathophysiology of gout and pseudo-gout are well described, the long-term treatment goals and options of management are often less well understood, and opportunities to assess for associated co-morbidities can easily be missed. GPs can be central in optimising management by promptly and appropriately addressing acute symptoms, preventing recurrent attacks, minimising disability and work absences, reducing cardiovascular risk factors, improving general health and enhancing quality of life.
Reconstructive breast surgery
Authors: Mackintosh Will , Jackson Phillipa
Published: September 2013

The surgical treatment of breast disease has evolved rapidly over the last three decades and the provision of reconstructive surgery for patients is now common practice. Advances in surgical techniques for breast cancer have seen a move away from radical mastectomy and complete lymph node dissection, and towards breast-conserving treatment. This is in recognition of the importance of the psychological impact of breast surgery, while preserving sound oncological boundaries. Techniques to reconstruct breast tissue have also been employed to correct congenital deformity and reconstruct the victims of burns or trauma. Furthermore, there is a steady rise in the number of prophylactic mastectomies as our understanding of the genetics of breast cancer grows. It is important for GPs to have a working knowledge of the range of reconstructive techniques in order to direct patients to appropriate secondary care and provide good post-operative care. Surgical services for reconstruction vary between regions in the UK; it is important that GPs are able to keep up to date with the procedures available in their locality, and beyond.
Antibiotic Precautions in Athletes
Authors: Fayock Kristopher , Voltz Matthew , Sandella Bradley , Close Jeremy , Lunser Matthew , Okon Joshua
Published: September 2013

Context:

Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment for bacterial infections in patients of all ages. Athletes who maximally train are at risk for illness and various infections. Routinely used antibiotics have been linked to tendon injuries, cardiac arrhythmias, diarrhea, photosensitivity, cartilage issues, and decreased performance.

Evidence Acquisition:

Relevant articles published from 1989 to 2012 obtained through searching MEDLINE and OVID. Also, the Food and Drug Administration website was utilized.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Results:

The team physician should consider alternative medications in place of the “drug of choice” when adverse drug effects are a concern for an athlete’s health or performance. If alternative medications cannot be selected, secondary preventative measures, including sunscreen or probiotics, may be needed.

Conclusion:

Physicians choose medications based on a variety of factors to help ensure infection resolution while limiting potential side effects. Extra precautions are indicated when treating athletes with certain antibiotics.
Socioeconomic demographics of patients referred to the Scottish National Service: Sacral Nerve Stimulation for Urinary Dysfunction
Authors: Lim DBN , Ramsay AK , Small DR , Conn IG
Published: September 2013

Aim:

Implantation of a permanent sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) device is reserved for patients who have demonstrated benefit during testing and patients selected for implantation must have shown a minimum level of understanding with the technology. The hypothesis behind this study was that the Scottish SNS for Urinary Dysfunction service unknowingly selected patients from higher socioeconomic classes, who seemed more likely to manage the technology. The objectives of this study were to analyse socioeconomic status of referrals and to compare socioeconomic classes of referrals which were (a) accepted for testing and (b) proceeding to permanent implantation.

Methods and results:

All patients referred to the service from April 2010–February 2013 were included in this study. Using the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation 2012, each patient’s postcode was matched to the corresponding datazone quintile (1–5, in descending order of deprivation). Altogether 178 referrals were analysed with no significant differences between each quintile observed: of these 56.7% progressed to testing, and 36.5 % progressed to permanent implantation with no significant difference in proportion between each quintile.

Conclusion:

Reassuringly, patient selection for sacral nerve stimulation in our study demonstrated no significant discrimination by socioeconomic status.
Anorectal toxicity of external beam radiotherapy in the treatment of prostate cancer
Authors: Bajwa Adeel , Raeburn Amanda , Taylor Stuart , Cohen Richard , Payne Heather , Emmanuel Anton
Published: September 2013

Introduction:

Maximising radiotherapy dosage is associated with better tumour response in prostate cancer. High dose three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D CRT) has allowed dose escalation to be safely achieved and the current standard dose in the UK with this technique is 74 Grays (Gy). Documenting normal tissue tolerance is critical and forms the basis of this prospective study of anorectal toxicity.

Patients and methods:

Seventeen consecutive men (median age 72 (range 50–79) years) with localised or locally advanced prostate cancer treated with 74 Gy of 3D CRT were studied. Wexner incontinence scores, comprehensive anorectal physiology and endoanal ultrasound were measured before and four months after completing treatment.

Results:

Wexner incontinence scores increased from a median of 0 to 1 (range 0–6) with treatment ( p=0.001). Patients developed faecal urgency (7/17), passive faecal loss (5/17) or a combination of both (3/17) as new anorectal symptoms. No patients reported episodes of frank faecal incontinence. A significant decline in rectal mucosal electrosensitivity (mean (standard deviation (SD)) thresholds increasing from 24.7 (10.7) to 34.3 (9.3) mA after treatment, p=0.003) and an increase in rectal elastance (mean (SD) of 0.056 (0.03) mm Hg/ml to 0.078 (0.036) mm Hg/ml pre- and post-treatment respectively, p=0.0181) was seen. No changes in anal canal manometry, rectal distension volumes and endoanal ultrasound were noted.

Conclusions:

Early anorectal symptoms are common after 3D CRT for prostate cancer. Rectal injury is evident with an increase in wall stiffness and a decrease in mucosal sensitivity. Longer term studies monitoring anorectal toxicity are warranted.
In vitro three-dimensional modeling of fallopian tube secretory epithelial cells
Authors: Lawrenson Kate , Notaridou Maria , Lee Nathan , Benjamin Elizabeth , Jacobs Ian J , Jones Christopher , Gayther Simon A
Published: September 2013

Background

Fallopian tube secretory epithelial cells (FTSECs) have been implicated as a cell-of-origin for high-grade serous epithelial ovarian cancer. However, there are relatively few in vitro models of this tissue type available for use in studies of FTSEC biology and malignant transformation. In vitro three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models aim to recreate the architecture and geometry of tissues in vivo and restore the complex network of cell-cell/cell-matrix interactions that occur throughout the surface of the cell membrane.

Results

We have established and characterized 3D spheroid culture models of primary FTSECs. FTSEC spheroids contain central cores of hyaline matrix surrounded by mono- or multi-layer epithelial sheets. We found that 3D culturing alters the molecular characteristics of FTSECs compared to 2D cultures of the same cells. Gene expression profiling identified more than a thousand differentially expressed genes between 3D and 2D cultures of the same FTSEC lines. Pathways significantly under-represented in 3D FTSEC cultures were associated with cell cycle progression and DNA replication. This was also reflected in the reduced proliferative indices observed in 3D spheroids stained for the proliferation marker MIB1. Comparisons with gene expression profiles of fresh fallopian tube tissues revealed that 2D FTSEC cultures clustered with follicular phase tubal epithelium, whereas 3D FTSEC cultures clustered with luteal phase samples.

Conclusions

This 3D model of fallopian tube secretory epithelial cells will advance our ability to study the underlying biology and etiology of fallopian tube tissues and the pathogenesis of high-grade serous epithelial ovarian cancer.
Tissue sparing, behavioral recovery, supraspinal axonal sparing/regeneration following sub-acute glial transplantation in a model of spinal cord contusion
Authors: Barbour Helen R , Plant Christine D , Harvey Alan R , Plant Giles W
Published: September 2013

Background

It has been shown that olfactory ensheathing glia (OEG) and Schwann cell (SCs) transplantation are beneficial as cellular treatments for spinal cord injury (SCI), especially acute and sub-acute time points. In this study, we transplanted DsRED transduced adult OEG and SCs sub-acutely (14 days) following a T10 moderate spinal cord contusion injury in the rat. Behaviour was measured by open field (BBB) and horizontal ladder walking tests to ascertain improvements in locomotor function. Fluorogold staining was injected into the distal spinal cord to determine the extent of supraspinal and propriospinal axonal sparing/regeneration at 4 months post injection time point. The purpose of this study was to investigate if OEG and SCs cells injected sub acutely (14 days after injury) could: (i) improve behavioral outcomes, (ii) induce sparing/regeneration of propriospinal and supraspinal projections, and (iii) reduce tissue loss.

Results

OEG and SCs transplanted rats showed significant increased locomotion when compared to control injury only in the open field tests (BBB). However, the ladder walk test did not show statistically significant differences between treatment and control groups. Fluorogold retrograde tracing showed a statistically significant increase in the number of supraspinal nuclei projecting into the distal spinal cord in both OEG and SCs transplanted rats. These included the raphe, reticular and vestibular systems. Further pairwise multiple comparison tests also showed a statistically significant increase in raphe projecting neurons in OEG transplanted rats when compared to SCs transplanted animals. Immunohistochemistry of spinal cord sections short term (2 weeks) and long term (4 months) showed differences in host glial activity, migration and proteoglycan deposits between the two cell types. Histochemical staining revealed that the volume of tissue remaining at the lesion site had increased in all OEG and SCs treated groups. Significant tissue sparing was observed at both time points following glial SCs transplantation. In addition, OEG transplants showed significantly decreased chondroitin proteoglycan synthesis in the lesion site, suggesting a more CNS tolerant graft.

Conclusions

These results show that transplantation of OEG and SCs in a sub-acute phase can improve anatomical outcomes after a contusion injury to the spinal cord, by increasing the number of spared/regenerated supraspinal fibers, reducing cavitation and enhancing tissue integrity. This provides important information on the time window of glial transplantation for the repair of the spinal cord.
Comparison of rectal swabs and faeces for real-time PCR detection of enteric agents in Rwandan children with gastroenteritis
Authors: Kabayiza Jean-Claude , Andersson Maria E , Welinder-Olsson Christina , Bergström Tomas , Muhirwa Gregoire , Lindh Magnus
Published: September 2013

Background

Molecular diagnostics have emerged as an efficient and feasible alternative for broad detection of pathogens in faeces. However, collection of stool samples is often impractical in both clinical work and in epidemiology studies. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic performance of rectal swabs as compared with traditional faeces samples for detection of enteric agents by PCR.

Method

Three hundred twenty-six pairs of rectal swab and stool samples, obtained from Rwandan children aged 0.5-4.99 years, with or without diarrhoea, were analysed by multiple real-time PCR amplifying 3 viral, 6 bacterial and one protozoan target.

Results

For all agents there was a significant correlation (R2 0.31-0.85) between Ct values in faeces and rectal swabs. For most agents the Ct values, a marker for target concentration, were significantly lower (by 1–3 cycles) in faeces, indicating pathogen content up to ten times higher than in rectal swabs. Despite this, there was no significant difference in detection rate between faeces and rectal swabs for any agent, reflecting that pathogen concentration was far above the limit of detection in the majority of cases.

Conclusion

The similar detection rates and the Ct value correlations as compared with traditional faeces samples indicate that rectal swabs are accurate for real-time PCR-based identification of enteric agents and may be used also for quantitative estimation of pathogen load.
Assessment of population exposure to PM10 for respiratory disease in Lanzhou (China) and its health-related economic costs based on GIS
Authors: Sun Zhaobin , An Xingqin , Tao Yan , Hou Qing
Published: September 2013

Background

Evaluation of the adverse health effects of PM10 pollution (particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter) is very important for protecting human health and establishing pollution control policy. Population exposure estimation is the first step in formulating exposure data for quantitative assessment of harmful PM10 pollution.

Methods

In this paper, we estimate PM10 concentration using a spatial interpolation method on a grid with a spatial resolution 0.01° × 0.01°. PM10 concentration data from monitoring stations are spatially interpolated, based on accurate population data in 2000 using a geographic information system. Then, an interpolated population layer is overlaid with an interpolated PM10 concentration layer, and population exposure levels are calculated. Combined with the exposure-response function between PM10 and health endpoints, economic costs of the adverse health effects of PM10 pollution are analyzed.

Results

The results indicate that the population in Lanzhou urban areas is distributed in a narrow and long belt, and there are relatively large population spatial gradients in the XiGu, ChengGuan and QiLiHe districts. We select threshold concentration C0 at: 0 μg m-3 (no harmful health effects), 20 μg m-3 (recommended by the World Health Organization), and 50 μg m-3 (national first class standard in China) to calculate excess morbidity cases. For these three scenarios, proportions of the economic cost of PM10 pollution-related adverse health effects relative to GDP are 0.206%, 0.194% and 0.175%, respectively. The impact of meteorological factors on PM10 concentrations in 2000 is also analyzed. Sandstorm weather in spring, inversion layers in winter, and precipitation in summer are important factors associated with change in PM10 concentration.

Conclusions

The population distribution by exposure level shows that the majority of people live in polluted areas. With the improvement of evaluation criteria, economic damage of respiratory disease caused by PM10 is much bigger. The health effects of Lanzhou urban residents should not be ignored. The government needs to find a better way to balance the health of residents and economy development. And balance the pros and cons before making a final policy.
Subjective outcome related to donor site morbidity after sural nerve graft harvesting: a survey in 41 patients
Authors: Hallgren Alexander , Björkman Anders , Chemnitz Anette , Dahlin Lars B
Published: September 2013

Background

The sural nerve is the most commonly used nerve for grafting severe nerve defects. Our aim was to evaluate subjective outcome in the lower leg after harvesting the sural nerve for grafting nerve defects.

Methods

Forty-six patients were asked to fill in a questionnaire to describe symptoms from leg or foot, where the sural nerve has been harvested to reconstruct an injured major nerve trunk. The questionnaire, previously used in patients going through a nerve biopsy, consists of questions about loss of sensation, pain, cold intolerance, allodynia and present problems from the foot. The survey also contained questions (visual analogue scales; VAS) about disability from the reconstructed nerve trunk.

Results

Forty-one out of 46 patients replied [35 males/6 females; age at reconstruction 23.0 years (10–72); median (min-max), reconstruction done 12 (1.2-39) years ago]. In most patients [37/41 cases (90%)], the sural nerve graft was used to reconstruct an injured nerve trunk in the upper extremity, mainly the median nerve [19/41 (46%)].

In 38/41 patients, loss of sensation, to a variable extent, in the skin area innervated by the sural nerve was noted. These problems persisted at follow up, but 19/41 noted that this area of sensory deficit had decreased over time. Few patients had pain and less than 1/3 had cold intolerance. Allodynia was present in half of the patients, but the majority of them considered that they had no or only slight problems from their foot. None of the patients in the study required painkillers. Eighty eight per cent would accept an additional sural nerve graft procedure if another nerve reconstruction procedure is necessary in the future.

Conclusions

Harvesting of the sural nerve for reconstruction nerve injuries results in mild residual symptoms similar to those seen after a nerve biopsy; although nerve biopsy patients are less prone to undergo an additional biopsy.
Serum dihydroxyacetone kinase peptide m/z 520.3 as predictor of disease severity in patients with compensated chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Xu Ming-Yi , Jia Xiao-Fang , Qu Ying , Zheng Rui-Dan , Yuan Zheng-Hong , Weng Hong-Lei , Dooley Steven , Wang Xing-Peng , Zhang Li-Jun , Lu Lun-Gen
Published: September 2013

Background & aim

Due to known limitations of liver biopsy, reliable non-invasive serum biomarkers for chronic liver diseases are needed. We performed serum peptidomics for such investigation in compensated chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients.

Methods

Liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to identify differentially expressed peptides in sera from 40 CHB patients (20 with S0G0-S1G1 and 20 with S3G3-S4G4). Ion pair quantification from differentially expressed peptides in a validation set of sera from 86 CHB patients was done with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM).

Results

21 differentially represented peptide peaks were found through LC-MS/MS. Ion pairs generated from eleven of these peptides (m/z < 800) were quantified by MRM. Summed peak area ratios of 6 ion pairs from peptide m/z 520.3 (176.1, 353.7, 459.8, 503.3, 351.3, 593.1), which was identified as dihydroxyacetone kinase (DAK) fragment, decreased from mild to advanced stages of fibrosis or inflammation. Area Under Receiver Operating Characteristic Curves (AUROCs) of five ion models discriminating fibrosis degrees were 0.871 ~ 0.915 (S2-4 versus S0-1) and 0.804 ~ 0.924 (S3-4 versus S0-2). AUROCs discriminating inflammation grades were 0.840 ~ 0.902 (G2-4 versus G0-1) and 0.787 ~ 0.888 (G3-4 versus G0-2). The diagnostic power of these models provides improved sensitivity and specificity for predicting disease progression as compared to aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI), FIB-4, Forn’s index and serum DAK protein.

Conclusions

The peptide fragment (m/z 520.3) of DAK is a promising biomarker to guide timing of antiviral treatment and to avoid liver biopsy in compensated CHB patients.
EZH2 knockdown suppresses the growth and invasion of human inflammatory breast cancer cells
Authors: Mu Zhaomei , Li Hua , Fernandez Sandra V , Alpaugh Katherine R , Zhang Rugang , Cristofanilli Massimo
Published: September 2013

Introduction

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) is the most metastatic variant of breast cancer with the poorest survival in all types of breast cancer patients and presently therapeutic targets for IBC are very limited. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is frequently expressed in human IBC and its expression positively correlates with worse clinical outcome. However, the molecular basis for EZH2 promoting IBC has not been explored. Here, we investigated the functional role of EZH2 in IBC cells by examining the effects of its knockdown on the formation of tumor spheroids and invasion of these cells in vitro and in vivo in an orthotopic xenograft model.

Methods

SUM149 and a new IBC cell line-FC-IBC-02 derived from pleural effusion fluid of an IBC patient were used in this study. Specific knockdown of EZH2 was performed using short hairpin RNA (shRNA) specific to the human EZH2 gene. Cell growth and the formation of tumor spheroids were examined in vitro. The effects of EZH2 knockdown on IBC cell migration and invasion were examined by a Boyden chamber assay. For the in vivo tumor growth studies, IBC cells were orthotopically transplanted into the mammary fat pads of immunodeficient mice.

Results

The results showed that EZH2 is expressed at higher levels in human IBC cell lines compared with normal human mammary epithelial cells, and the knockdown of EZH2 expression significantly suppressed cell growth and tumor spheroid formation of human IBC cells in vitro. In addition, EZH2 knockdown inhibited the migration and invasion of IBC cells. Significantly, EZH2 knockdown suppressed the angiogenesis and tumor growth of IBC cells in vivo.

Conclusions

Our results provide direct evidence that EZH2 is critical for the formation of tumor spheroids and invasion of human IBC cells and could be a potential target for developing novel therapeutic strategies for human IBC.
Biodiversity of soil algae in the farmlands of mid-Taiwan
Authors: Lin Ching-Su , Chou Tsuan-Ling , Wu Jiunn-Tzong
Published: September 2013

Background

Very little information is available about soil algae in Taiwan. In this study, we investigated for the first time the soil algae inhabiting five types of farmland in mid-Taiwan: rice paddies, vegetable farms, tea plantations, sugar cane farms, and orchards.

Results

Sixty-four taxa belonging to 33 genera of cyanobacteria, diatoms, green algae, and euglenoids were identified on the basis of fine structures observed under optical and electron microscopes and rDNA sequencing. The majority of the isolates were of the generaOscillatoria,Navicula,Nitzschia, andPinnularia. Five species were reported for the first time in Taiwan, namelyMicrocoleus paludosus,M. subtorulosus,Navicula subminuscula,Nitzschia levidensis, andNi. pusilla.

Conclusions

The distribution and diversity of these species was shown to be strongly dependent on habitat, with the highest diversity of green algae in the orchards, a fairly high diversity of diatoms and cyanobacteria in the rice paddies, and a relatively low diversity in the tea plantations and sugar cane farms. The humidity and acidity were the most important environmental factors influencing the diversity of soil algae in these farmlands.
Acacia nilotica (Babool) leaf extract mediated size-controlled rapid synthesis of gold nanoparticles and study of its catalytic activity
Authors: Majumdar Rakhi , Bag Braja Gopal , Maity Nabasmita
Published: September 2013

The leaf extract of Acacia nilotica (Babool) is rich in different types of plant secondary metabolites such as flavanoids, tannins, triterpenoids, saponines, etc. We have demonstrated the use of the leaf extract for the synthesis of gold nanoparticles in water at room temperature under very mild conditions. The synthesis of the gold nanoparticles was complete in several minutes, and no extra stabilizing or capping agents were necessary. The size of the nanoparticles could be controlled by varying the concentration of the leaf extract. The gold nanoparticles were characterized by HRTEM, surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction studies. The synthesized gold nanoparticles have been used as an efficient catalyst for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol in water at room temperature.
Inhibition of caspase-8 activity promotes protective Th1- and Th2-mediated immunity toLeishmania majorinfection
Authors: Pereira-Manfro Wânia F , Ribeiro-Gomes Flávia L , Filardy Alessandra Almeida , Vellozo Natália S , Guillermo Landi V C , Silva Elisabeth M , Siegel Richard M , DosReis George A , Lopes Marcela F
Published: September 2013

We investigated how apoptosis pathways mediated by death receptors and caspase-8 affect cytokine responses and immunity to Leishmania major parasites. Splenic CD4 T cells undergo activation-induced apoptosis, and blockade of FasL-Fas interaction increased IFN-γ and IL-4 cytokine responses to L. major antigens. To block death receptor-induced death, we used mice expressing a T cell-restricted transgene for vFLIP. Inhibition of caspase-8 activation in vFLIP mice enhanced Th1 and Th2 cytokine responses to L. major infection, even in the Th1-prone B6 background. We also observed increased NO production by splenocytes from vFLIP mice upon T cell activation. Despite an exacerbated Th2 response, vFLIP mice controlled better L. major infection, with reduced lesions and lower parasite loads compared with WT mice. Moreover, injection of anti-IL-4 mAb in infected vFLIP mice disrupted control of parasite infection. Therefore, blockade of caspase-8 activity in T cells improves immunity to L. major infection by promoting increased Th1 and Th2 responses.
The Artery of von Haller
Authors: Gailloud Philippe
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND:

Although recognized since the 18th century, radiculomedullary arteries (RMAs) originating from upper thoracic intersegmental arteries are generally considered to be inconstant branches of little clinical importance. Yet, such vessels are commonly observed during spinal angiography.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the angiographic prevalence of upper thoracic RMAs, in particular, branches supplying the anterior spinal artery (ASA).

METHODS:

Fifty spinal angiograms were reviewed. Anterior and posterior RMAs originating in the upper thoracic region (T3 to T7) were recorded. The level of origin of the artery of Adamkiewicz (T8 to L3) was also noted.

RESULTS:

Forty-three patients (86%) had at least 1 ASA contributor between T3 and T7. Of the other 7 patients, 4 had one at an immediately adjacent level (T2 or T8). The most frequent origin of upper thoracic anterior RMAs was left T5 (n = 10). Only left T9 (n = 12) and left T8 (n = 11) were more common. When combining the left and right sides, an ASA contributor was more frequent at T5 (n = 16) than at any other level (n = 15 for T9, n = 14 for T8). The sum of ASA contributors at T4 and T5 (n = 27) represented 54% of all upper thoracic anterior RMAs, and 23% of all anterior RMAs between T3 and L3.

CONCLUSION:

A significant upper thoracic anterior RMA distinct from the artery of Adamkiewicz appears to be a constant anatomic feature, which undermines the classic concept of an arterial watershed zone in the thoracic region. We propose to name this artery after Albrecht von Haller, who documented its existence in 1754.