bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary Acculturation and Predictors of Anthropometric Indicators Among Filipino Americans
Authors: Serafica Reimund C. , Lane Susan H. , Ceria-Ulep Clementina D.
Published: July 2013

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship of the demographic variables, level of acculturation, dietary consumption of fat, sugar, fruits and vegetables and dietary acculturation to the anthropometric measurement of Filipino Americans (FAs) in the United States. The study sample consisted of 128 FAs ( N = 128) residing in the southeastern part of the United States. Participants completed the demographics, the Block’s Short Food Frequency Questionnaire (SFFQ), a Short Acculturation Scale for Filipino Americans (ASASFA), and the Dietary Acculturation Questionnaire for Filipino Americans (DAQFA). Anthropometric measurements (waist circumference, hip circumference, weight, and height) were also taken. Descriptive statistics analyses and partial least squares (PLS) were used to explore the predictive relationships among the variables constructed. The most important positive predictors of the anthropometric indicators were the Western Scale (path coefficient = .503, p < .05) and the intake of fats and sugars (path coefficient = .282, p < .05).
Cytosine methylation is a conserved epigenetic feature found throughout the phylum Platyhelminthes
Authors: Geyer Kathrin K , Chalmers Iain W , MacKintosh Neil , Hirst Julie E , Geoghegan Rory , Badets Mathieu , Brophy Peter M , Brehm Klaus , Hoffmann Karl F
Published: July 2013

Background

The phylum Platyhelminthes (flatworms) contains an important group of bilaterian organisms responsible for many debilitating and chronic infectious diseases of human and animal populations inhabiting the planet today. In addition to their biomedical and veterinary relevance, some platyhelminths are also frequently used models for understanding tissue regeneration and stem cell biology. Therefore, the molecular (genetic and epigenetic) characteristics that underlie trophic specialism, pathogenicity or developmental maturation are likely to be pivotal in our continued studies of this important metazoan group. Indeed, in contrast to earlier studies that failed to detect evidence of cytosine or adenine methylation in parasitic flatworm taxa, our laboratory has recently defined a critical role for cytosine methylation inSchistosoma mansonioviposition, egg maturation and ovarian development. Thus, in order to identify whether this epigenetic modification features in other platyhelminth species or is a novelty ofS. mansoni, we conducted a study simultaneously surveying for DNA methylation machinery components and DNA methylation marks throughout the phylum using both parasitic and non-parasitic representatives.

Results

Firstly, using bothS. mansoniDNA methyltransferase 2 (SmDNMT2) and methyl-CpG binding domain protein (SmMBD) as query sequences, we illustrate that essential DNA methylation machinery components are well conserved throughout the phylum. Secondly, using both molecular (methylation specific amplification polymorphism, MSAP) and immunological (enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay, ELISA) methodologies, we demonstrate that representative species (Echinococcus multilocularis,Protopolystoma xenopodis,Schistosoma haematobium,Schistosoma japonicum,Fasciola hepaticaandPolycelis nigra) within all four platyhelminth classes (Cestoda, Monogenea, Trematoda and ‘Turbellaria’) contain methylated cytosines within their genome compartments.

Conclusions

Collectively, these findings provide the first direct evidence for a functionally conserved and enzymatically active DNA methylation system throughout the Platyhelminthes. Defining how this epigenetic feature shapes phenotypic diversity and development within the phylum represents an exciting new area of metazoan biology.
Development of a short form and scoring algorithm from the validated actionable bladder symptom screening tool
Authors: Bates David , Burks Jack , Globe Denise , Signori Manuel , Hudgens Stacie , Denys Pierre , MacDiarmid Scott , Nitti Victor , Odderson Ib , Ross Amy Perrin , Chancellor Michael
Published: July 2013

Background

The majority of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients develop some form of lower urinary tract dysfunction, usually as a result of neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO). Patients identify urinary incontinence as one of the worst aspects of this disease. Despite the high prevalence of NDO, urological evaluation and treatment are significantly under-accessed in this population. The objectives of this study were: 1) to adapt the previously validated Actionable Bladder Symptom Screening Tool (ABSST) to a short form for ease and brevity of application in a clinical setting that is clinically meaningful; and 2) to develop a scoring algorithm that would be interpretable in terms of referring/considering precise diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

A US-based, non-randomized, multi-center, stand-alone observational study was conducted to assess the psychometric properties of the ABSST among patients who have MS with and without NDO. Mixed psychometric methods (e.g., classical statistics (Psychometric theory (3rd ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill; 1994) and item response methods (Applying the Rasch Model: Fundamental Measurement in the Human Sciences. New Jersey: Lawrence Earlbaum Associates; 2001)) were used to evaluate the predictive and clinical validity of the shortened form. The latter included clinicians flagging clinically meaningful items and associated response options which would indicate the need for further evaluation or treatment.

Results

A total of 151 patients, all with MS and with and without NDO, were recruited by 28 clinicians in various US geographical locations. Approximately 41% of patients reported a history of or currently having urinary incontinence and/or urinary urgency. The prediction model across the entire range of classification thresholds was evaluated, plotting the true positive identification rate against the false positive rate (1-Specificity) for various cut scores. In this study, the cut-point or total score of greater than or equal to 6 had a sensitivity of approximately 85%, and specificity of approximately 93% (i.e., 85% patients would warrant being referred to a urologist and 93% of the patients whose symptoms would not warrant urologist referral).

Conclusions

Overall the short form ABSST demonstrated sensitivity and specificity as it maintained the integrity of the longer form tool. Concurrent validity for each subscale as well as predictive and concurrent validity of the total shortened instrument was demonstrated. This instrument provides a new method for assessing bladder problems among MS patients, and may facilitate earlier and more precise diagnosis, treatment, and/or referral to a specialist.
Acute transient freezing of gait in a patient with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome
Authors: Nakajima Asuka , Ueno Yuji , Shimura Hideki , Kambe Taiki , Nishioka Kenya , Hattori Nobutaka , Urabe Takao
Published: July 2013

Background

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a transient clinical and neuroradiologic syndrome caused by cerebral vasogenic edema. Various reversible neurologic symptoms were shown in patients with PRES. Freezing of gait (FOG) is mainly observed in neurodegenerative diseases.

Case presentation

We report a 43-year-old man, with undergoing hemodialysis therapy for chronic renal failure, had mild elevation of blood pressure. His consciousness level suddenly deteriorated, and brain MRI demonstrated hyperintense lesions in the bilateral basal ganglia on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery images, diffusion-weighted images, and apparent diffusion coefficient maps. After improvement of disturbance of consciousness, he showed FOG accompanied by bradykinesia and postural instability. His FOG spontaneously improved concurrently with alleviation of basal ganglionic lesions on follow-up MRI.

Conclusions

It is suggested that vasogenic edema on bilateral basal ganglia associated with PRES can cause acute transient FOG.
Intratumoral localization and activity of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 in non-small cell lung cancer: a potent prognostic factor
Authors: Verma Mohit K , Miki Yasuhiro , Abe Keiko , Suzuki Takashi , Niikawa Hiromichi , Suzuki Satoshi , Kondo Takashi , Sasano Hironobu
Published: July 2013

Background

Estrogens were recently demonstrated to be synthesized in non-small cell lung carcinomas (NSCLCs) via aromatase activity and aromatase inhibitor (AI) did suppressed estrogen receptor (ER) positive NSCLC growth. However, other enzymes involved in intratumoral production and metabolism of estrogens, i.e. 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (i.e. 17βHSD1 and 17βHSD2) and others have not been studied. Therefore, in this study, we examined the clinical/ biological significance of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases in NSCLCs.

Methodology

Archival materials obtained from 103 NSCLC patients were immunohistochemically evaluated using anti-17βHSD1 and anti-17βHSD2 antibodies. The findings of immunohistochemistry were then correlated with intratumoral estrone (E1) and estradiol (E2) concentration, clinicopathological factors and overall survival of the patients. We further employed NSCLC cell lines, A549 and LK87 to study the functional significance of 17βHSD1, in vitro.

Results

A higher 17βHSD1 immunoreactivity tended to be positively associated with aromatase (p=0.057) and tumor stage (p=0.055) whereas a higher 17βHSD2 immunoreactivity was positively associated with a squamous cell and adenosquamous cell carcinomas subtypes (p=0.031), tumor stage (p=0.004), T factor of TNM classification (p=0.010), maximum tumor diameter (p=0.002) and tended to be associated with N factor of TMN classification (p=0.065). A higher 17βHSD1 immunoreactivity was also significantly associated with lower intratumoral E1 concentration (p=0.040) and a higher intratumoral E2/E1 concentration ratio (p=0.028). On the other hand a higher 17βHSD2 immunoreactivity was significantly associated with higher intratumoral E1 concentration (p=0.035). Results of multivariate regression analysis demonstrated an increased 17βHSD1 immunoreactivity in tumor cells as an independent negative prognostic factor (HR= 2.83, p=0.007). E1 treatment in 17βHSD1 positive NSCLC cells, A549 and LK87, resulted in E2 production (p<0.0001) and enhanced cell proliferation, which was abrogated effectively by 17βHSD1 siRNA knockdown (p<0.0001). In addition, aromatase inhibitor treatment resulted in 17βHSD1 up regulation in both A549 and LK87 cells.

Conclusion

Results of our present study suggest that 17βHSD1 may be considered an important prognostic factor in NSCLC patients and targeting 17βHSD1 activity may further improve the clinical response in estrogen responsive NSCLC patients.
Directional compass preference for landing in water birds
Authors: Hart Vlastimil , Malkemper Erich Pascal , Kušta Tomáš , Begall Sabine , Nováková Petra , Hanzal Vladimír , Pleskač Lukáš , Ježek Miloš , Policht Richard , Husinec Václav , Červený Jaroslav , Burda Hynek
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Landing flight in birds is demanding on visual control of velocity, distance to target, and slope of descent. Birds flying in flocks must also keep a common course of landing in order to avoid collisions. Whereas the wind direction may provide a cue for landing, the nature of the landing direction indicator under windless conditions has been unknown. We recorded and analysed landing directions of 3,338 flocks in 14 species of water birds in eight countries.

Results

We show that the preferred landing direction, independently of the direction from which the birds have arrived, is along the north-south axis. We analysed the effect of the time of the year, time of the day (and thus sun position), weather (sunny versus overcast), light breeze, locality, latitude, and magnetic declination in 2,431 flocks of mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) and found no systematic effect of these factors upon the preferred direction of landing. We found that magnetic North was a better predictor for landing direction than geographic North.

Conclusions

In absence of any other common denominator determining the landing direction, the alignment with the magnetic field lines seems to be the most plausible if not the only explanation for the directional landing preference under windless and overcast conditions and we suggest that the magnetic field thus provides a landing direction indicator.
Oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma with known human papillomavirus status treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy: patterns of failure and toxicity outcomes
Authors: Bledsoe Trevor J , Noble Anisha R , Hunter Grant K , Rybicki Lisa A , Hoschar Aaron , Chute Deborah J , Saxton Jerrold P , Greskovich John F , Adelstein David J , Koyfman Shlomo A
Published: July 2013

Background

Tumor human papillomavirus (HPV) status has emerged as one of the most powerful prognostic factors for disease control and survival in patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). We reviewed our experience in patients with OPSCC and known tumor HPV status treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

Methods

Patients with stage III-IVb OPSCC and known tumor HPV status treated with CRT between 2006 and 2011 were identified from an IRB approved registry for this retrospective review. Outcomes were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared between HPV-positive and negative patients using the log-rank test.

Results

Of the 121 pts (89% male, 93% Caucasian) included in this study, median age was 57 (range: 40–73) and median follow-up was 21 months (range: 6–63). Ninety-seven (80%) patients were HPV-positive and 24 (20%) were HPV-negative. Primary site was base of tongue (55%), tonsil (44%), and oropharyngeal wall (2%). Two year rates of locoregional recurrence (3% vs. 26%; p = 0.002), disease free survival (93% vs. 64%; p = 0.001) and overall survival (94% vs 73%; p = 0.002) were superior in HPV-positive patients, while rates of distant recurrence were similar (3% vs. 5%; p = 0.98). While acute toxicities were similar between both groups, patients with HPV-positive disease were more likely to resume a normal diet (90% vs. 65%; p = 0.017) at last follow up. Also, no HPV-positive patient required a feeding tube beyond 6 months after treatment, compared with 24% of HPV-negative patients.

Conclusions

Definitive CRT produces excellent rates of disease control with minimal late toxicity for patients with HPV-positive OPSCC. Studies of OPSCC should account for tumor HPV status when identifying factors prognostic for outcome.
An algorithm to predict phenotypic severity in mucopolysaccharidosis type I in the first month of life
Authors: Kingma Sandra DK , Langereis Eveline J , de Klerk Clasine M , Zoetekouw Lida , Wagemans Tom , IJlst Lodewijk , Wanders Ronald JA , Wijburg Frits A , van Vlies Naomi
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) is a progressive multisystem lysosomal storage disease caused by deficiency of the enzyme α-L-iduronidase (IDUA). Patients present with a continuous spectrum of disease severity, and the most severely affected patients (Hurler phenotype; MPS I-H) develop progressive cognitive impairment. The treatment of choice for MPS I-H patients is haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, while patients with the more attenuated phenotypes benefit from enzyme replacement therapy.

The potential of newborn screening (NBS) for MPS I is currently studied in many countries. NBS for MPS I, however, necessitates early assessment of the phenotype, in order to decide on the appropriate treatment. In this study, we developed an algorithm to predict phenotypic severity in newborn MPS I patients.

Methods

Thirty patients were included in this study. Genotypes were collected from all patients and all patients were phenotypically categorized at an age of > 18 months based on the clinical course of the disease. In 18 patients, IDUA activity in fibroblast cultures was measured using an optimized IDUA assay. Clinical characteristics from the first month of life were collected from 23 patients.

Results

Homozygosity or compound heterozygosity for specific mutations which are associated with MPS I-H, discriminated a subset of patients with MPS I-H from patients with more attenuated phenotypes (specificity 100%, sensitivity 82%). Next, we found that enzymatic analysis of IDUA activity in fibroblasts allowed identification of patients affected by MPS I-H. Therefore, residual IDUA activity in fibroblasts was introduced as second step in the algorithm. Patients with an IDUA activity of < 0.32 nmol x mg-1 × hr-1 invariably were MPS I-H patients, while an IDUA activity of > 0.66 nmol × mg-1 × hr-1 was only observed in more attenuated patients. Patients with an intermediate IDUA activity could be further classified by the presence of differentiating clinical characteristics, resulting in a model with 100% sensitivity and specificity for this cohort of patients.

Conclusion

Using genetic, biochemical and clinical characteristics, all potentially available in the newborn period, an algorithm was developed to predict the MPS I phenotype, allowing timely initiation of the optimal treatment strategy after introduction of NBS.
Consumer perceptions of the sale of tobacco products in pharmacies and grocery stores among U.S. adults
Authors: Patwardhan Pallavi , McMillen Robert , Winickoff Jonathan P
Published: July 2013

Background

Pharmacy-based tobacco sales are a rapidly increasing segment of the U.S. retail tobacco market. Growing evidence links easy access to tobacco retail outlets such as pharmacies to increased tobacco use. This mixed-mode survey was the first to employ a nationally representative sample of consumers (n = 3057) to explore their opinions on sale of tobacco products in pharmacies and grocery stores.

Results

The majority reported that sale of tobacco products should be either ‘allowed if products hidden from view’ (29.9%, 25.6%) or ‘not allowed at all’ (24.0%, 31.3%) in grocery stores and pharmacies, respectively. Significantly fewer smokers, compared to non-smokers, reported agreement on point-of-sale restrictions on sales of tobacco products (grocery stores: 27.1% vs. 59.6%, p < .01; pharmacy: 32.8% vs. 62.0%, p < .01). Opinions also varied significantly by demographic characteristics and factors such as presence of a child in the household and urban/rural location of residence.

Conclusions

Overall, a majority of consumers surveyed either supported banning sales of tobacco in grocery stores and pharmacies or allowing sales only if the products are hidden from direct view. Both policy changes would represent a departure from the status quo. Consistent with the views of practicing pharmacists and professional pharmacy organizations, consumers are also largely supportive of more restrictive policies.
Temporal changes in magnetic resonance imaging in the mdx mouse
Authors: Pratt Stephen JP , Xu Su , Mullins Roger J , Lovering Richard M
Published: July 2013

Background

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is characterized clinically by severe, progressive loss of skeletal muscle. The phenotype is much less severe in the mdx mouse model of DMD than that seen in patients with DMD. However, a “critical period” has been described for the mdx mouse, during which there is a peak in muscle weakness and degeneration/regeneration between the 2nd and 5th weeks of life. A number of studies have employed small animal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine skeletal muscle in various dystrophic models, but such studies represent a snapshot in time rather than a longitudinal view.

Results

The in vivo cross-sectional T2-weighted image of the healthy (wild type, WT) muscles is homogeneously dark and this homogeneity does not change with time, as there is no disease. We, and others, have shown marked changes in MRI in dystrophic muscle, with multiple, unevenly distributed focal hyperintensities throughout the bulk of the muscles. Here we monitored an mdx mouse using MRI from 5 to 80 weeks of age. Temporal MRI scans show an increase in heterogeneity shortly after the critical period, at 9 and 13 weeks of age, with a decrease in heterogeneity thereafter. The 4.3-fold increase in percent heterogeneity at week 9 and 13 is consistent with the notion of an early critical period described for mdx mice.

Conclusions

Age is a significant variable in quantitative MR studies of the mdx mouse. The mdx mouse is typically studied during the critical period, at a time that most closely mimics the DMD pathology, but the preliminary findings here, albeit based on imaging only one mdx mouse over time, suggest that the changes in MRI can occur shortly after this period, when the muscles are still recovering.
In silico analysis of the fucosylation-associated genome of the human blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni: cloning and characterization of the enzymes involved in GDP-L-fucose synthesis and Golgi import
Authors: Peterson Nathan A , Anderson Tavis K , Wu Xiao-Jun , Yoshino Timothy P
Published: July 2013

Background

Carbohydrate structures of surface-expressed and secreted/excreted glycoconjugates of the human blood flukeSchistosoma mansoniare key determinants that mediate host-parasite interactions in both snail and mammalian hosts. Fucose is a major constituent of these immunologically important glycans, and recent studies have sought to characterize fucosylation-associated enzymes, including the Golgi-localized fucosyltransferases that catalyze the transfer of L-fucose from a GDP-L-fucose donor to an oligosaccharide acceptor. Importantly, GDP-L-fucose is the only nucleotide-sugar donor used by fucosyltransferases and its availability represents a bottleneck in fucosyl-glycotope expression.

Methods

A homology-based genome-wide bioinformatics approach was used to identify and molecularly characterize the enzymes that contribute to GDP-L-fucose synthesis and Golgi import inS. mansoni. Putative functions were further investigated through molecular phylogenetic and immunocytochemical analyses.

Results

We identified homologs of GDP-D-mannose-4,6-dehydratase (GMD) and GDP-4-keto-6-deoxy-D-mannose-3,5-epimerase-4-reductase (GMER), which constitute ade novopathway for GDP-L-fucose synthesis, in addition to a GDP-L-fucose transporter (GFT) that putatively imports cytosolic GDP-L-fucose into the Golgi.In silicoprimary sequence analyses identified characteristic Rossman loop and short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase motifs in GMD and GMER as well as 10 transmembrane domains in GFT. All genes are alternatively spliced, generating variants of unknown function. Observed quantitative differences in steady-state transcript levels between miracidia and primary sporocysts may contribute to differential glycotope expression in early larval development. Additionally, analyses of protein expression suggest the occurrence of cytosolic GMD and GMER in the ciliated epidermal plates and tegument of miracidia and primary sporocysts, respectively, which is consistent with previous localization of highly fucosylated glycotopes.

Conclusions

This study is the first to identify and characterize three key genes that are putatively involved in the synthesis and Golgi import of GDP-L-fucose inS. mansoniand provides fundamental information regarding their genomic organization, genetic variation, molecular phylogenetics, and developmental expression in intramolluscan larval stages.
Surgical management and perioperative morbidity of patients with primary borderline ovarian tumor (BOT)
Authors: Trillsch Fabian , Ruetzel Jan David , Herwig Uwe , Doerste Ulrike , Woelber Linn , Grimm Donata , Choschzick Matthias , Jaenicke Fritz , Mahner Sven
Published: July 2013

Background

Surgery is the cornerstone for clinical management of patients with borderline ovarian tumors (BOT). As these patients have an excellent overall prognosis, perioperative morbidity is the critical point for decision making when the treatment strategy is developed and the primary surgical approach is defined.

Methods

Clinical and surgical parameters of patients undergoing surgery for primary BOT at our institutions between 1993 and 2008 were analyzed with regard to perioperative morbidity depending on the surgical approach (laparotomy vs. laparoscopy).

Results

A total of 105 patients were analyzed (44 with primary laparoscopy [42%], 61 with primary laparotomy [58%]). Complete surgical staging was achieved in 33 patients at primary surgical approach (31.4%) frequently leading to formal indication of re-staging procedures. Tumor rupture was significantly more frequent during laparoscopy compared to laparotomy (29.5% vs. 13.1%, p = 0.038) but no other intraoperative complications were seen in laparoscopic surgery in contrast to 7 of 61 laparotomies (0% vs. 11.5%, p = 0.020). Postoperative complication rates were similar in both groups (19.7% vs. 18.2%, p = 0.848).

Conclusions

Irrespective of the surgical approach, surgical management of BOT has acceptable rates of perioperative complications and morbidity. Choice of initial surgical approach can therefore be made independent of complication-concerns. As the recently published large retrospective AGO ROBOT study observed similar oncologic outcome for both approaches, laparoscopy can be considered for staging of patients with BOT if this appears feasible. An algorithm for the surgical management of BOT patients has been developed.
MicroRNA Signature Obtained From the Comparison of Aggressive With Indolent Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas: Potential Prognostic Value in Mantle-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Goswami Rashmi S. , Atenafu Eshetu G. , Xuan Yali , Waldron Levi , Reis Patricia P. , Sun Thomas , Datti Alessandro , Xu Wei , Kuruvilla John , Good David J. , Lai Raymond , Church Alanna J. , Lam Wilson S. , Baetz Tara , LeBrun David P. , Sehn Laurie H. , Farinha Pedro , Jurisica Igor , Bailey Denis J. , Gascoyne Randy D. , Crump Michael , Kamel-Reid Suzanne
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Mantle-cell lymphoma (MCL) has a variable natural history but is incurable with current therapies. MicroRNAs (miRs) are useful in prognostic assessment of cancer. We determined an miR signature defining aggressiveness in B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) and assessed whether this signature aids in MCL prognosis.

Methods

We assessed miR expression in a training set of 43 NHL cases. The miR signature was validated in 44 additional cases and examined on a training set of 119 MCL cases from four institutions in Canada. miRs significantly associated with overall survival were examined in an independent cohort of 114 MCL cases to determine association with patient outcome. miR expression was combined with current clinical prognostic factors to develop an enhanced prognostic model in patients with MCL.

Results

Fourteen miRs were differentially expressed between aggressive and indolent NHL; 11 of 14 were validated in an independent set of NHL (excluding MCL). miR-127-3p and miR-615-3p were significantly associated with overall survival in the MCL training set. Their expression was validated in an independent MCL patient set. In comparison with Ki-67, expression of these miRs was more significantly associated with overall survival among patients with MCL. miR-127-3p was combined with Ki-67 to create a new prognostic model for MCL. A similar model was created with miR-615-3p and Mantle Cell Lymphoma International Prognostic Index scores.

Conclusion

Eleven miRs are differentially expressed between aggressive and indolent NHL. Two novel miRs were associated with overall survival in MCL and were combined with clinical prognostic models to generate novel prognostic data for patients with MCL.
Taxane-Cisplatin-Fluorouracil As Induction Chemotherapy in Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancers: An Individual Patient Data Meta-Analysis of the Meta-Analysis of Chemotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer Group
Authors: Blanchard Pierre , Bourhis Jean , Lacas Benjamin , Posner Marshall R. , Vermorken Jan B. , Hernandez Juan J. Cruz , Bourredjem Abderrahmane , Calais Gilles , Paccagnella Adriano , Hitt Ricardo , Pignon Jean-Pierre
Published: July 2013

Purpose

Cisplatin plus fluorouracil (PF) induction chemotherapy has been compared with taxane (docetaxel or paclitaxel), cisplatin, and fluorouracil (Tax-PF) in randomized trials in locoregionally advanced head and neck cancers (LAHNCs). The aim of this meta-analysis was to study the efficacy and toxicity of Tax-PF and PF and identify differences in outcomes in subsets of patients.

Methods

Five randomized trials representing 1,772 patients were identified. Updated individual patient data (IPD) were retrieved for all trials. The log-rank test, stratified by trial, was used for comparison. Interaction or trend tests were used to study the interaction between covariates and treatment.

Results

Median follow-up was 4.9 years. The hazard ratio (HR) of death was 0.79 (95% CI, 0.70 to 0.89; P < .001; absolute benefit at 5 years: 7.4%) in favor of Tax-PF. Heterogeneity was significant (P = .08, I2 = 51%) and related to one trial. There was no more heterogeneity after exclusion of this trial (P = .99, I2 = 0%), and HR of death was 0.72 (95% CI, 0.63 to 0.83) in favor of Tax-PF. There was no interaction between treatment effect and the following patient covariates: age, sex, performance status, tumor stage, or site. Tax-PF was associated with significant reductions of progression, locoregional failure, and distant failure compared with PF, with HRs of 0.78 (95% CI, 0.69 to 0.87; P < .001), 0.79 (95% CI, 0.66 to 0.94; P = .007), and 0.63 (95% CI, 0.45 to 0.89; P = .009) respectively.

Conclusion

This IPD meta-analysis shows the superiority of Tax-PF over PF as induction chemotherapy. Its precise role in the management of LAHNC remains to be determined.
Maintenance Therapy for Advanced Lung Cancer: Who, What, and When?
Authors: Gerber David E.
Published: July 2013

A 60-year-old woman with hypertension, dyslipidemia, and 35–pack-year smoking history is referred for treatment of advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). She initially presented after a transient ischemic attack, when a chest radiograph demonstrated a right lung mass. Computed tomography (CT) of the chest revealed a 5-cm right upper lobe mass, without mediastinal adenopathy, and a 6-cm cystic mass in the spleen. Additional imaging showed no brain metastasis. Endobronchial ulstrasound-guided core biopsies of the lung mass and ipsilateral mediastinal nodes confirmed a poorly differentiated non–small-cell carcinoma. Immunohistochemical stains were positive for napsin A and thyroid transcription factor 1, suggestive of adenocarcinoma ( Fig 1 ). Molecular analysis identified a KRAS G12C mutation. A positron emission tomography (PET) –CT scan demonstrated [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in the right upper lobe mass and splenic lesion ( Fig 2 A). CT-guided fine-needle aspiration of the splenic lesion was performed and revealed metastatic carcinoma, consistent with the lung primary. Treatment with carboplatin plus pemetrexed was initiated, without bevacizumab because of the recent transient ischemic attack; carboplatin was selected over cisplatin because of similar concerns. The patient received two cycles of chemotherapy without complications, and repeat imaging showed decrease in size of the lung mass and splenic lesion ( Figs 2 B and 2 C). After four cycles of chemotherapy, a chest CT showed ongoing response ( Fig 2 D). Her Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status remained 0.
A histological and functional study on hippocampal formation of normal and diabetic rats
Authors: Amin Shaimaa N , Younan Sandra M , Youssef Mira F , Rashed Laila A , Mohamady Ibrahim
Published: July 2013

Background:The hippocampus is a key brain area for many forms of learning and memory and is particularly sensitive to changes in glucose homeostasis.

Aim of the work:To investigate in experimentally induced type 1 and 2 diabetes mellitus in rat model the effect of  diabetes mellitus on cognitive functions and related markers of hippocampal synaptic plasticity, and the possible impact of blocking N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptors by memantine.

Materials and methods:Seven rat groups were included: non-diabetic control and non-diabetic receiving memantine; type-1 diabetic groups - untreated, treated with insulin alone and treated with insulin and memantine; and type 2 diabetic groups - untreated and memantine treated. Cognitive functions were assessed by the Morris Water Maze and passive avoidance test. Biochemical analysis was done for serum glucose, serum insulin and insulin resistance. Routine histological examination was done, together with immunohistochemistry for detection of the hippocampal learning and memory plasticity marker, namely activity regulated cytoskeletal-associated protein (Arc), and the astrocytes reactivity marker, namely glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). 

Results:Both type 1 and 2 untreated diabetic groups showed significantly impaired cognitive performance compared to the non-diabetic group. Treating the type 1 diabetic group with insulin alone significantly improved cognitive performance, but significantly decreased GFAP and Arc compared to the untreated type 1 group. In addition, the type 2 diabetic groups showed a significant decrease in hippocampus GFAP and Arc compared to the non-diabetic groups. Blocking NMDA receptors by memantine significantly increased cognitive performance, GFAP and Arc in the type 1 insulin-memantine group compared to the type 1-insulin group and significantly increased Arc in the type 2-memantine group compared to the untreated type 2 diabetic group. The non-diabetic group receiving memantine was, however, significantly adversely affected.

Conclusion:Cognitive functions are impaired in both types of diabetes mellitus and can be improved by blockage of NMDA receptors which may spark a future therapeutic role for these receptors in diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction.
Phylogenetic analysis of the Neotropical genus Mezilaurus and reestablishment of Clinostemon (Lauraceae)
Authors: Alves Flávio Macedo , Souza Vinícius Castro
Published: July 2013

The delimitation of the genus Mezilaurus (Lauraceae) has always been controversial and depended on the weight given to some characters over others. This study is the first molecular phylogeny of Mezilaurus. It aims to test the monophyly of the genus and its relationships within the Mezilaurus group or other closely related genera. The Mezilaurus group had emerged as monophyletic in previous phylogenetic studies, and includes Anaueria, Chlorocardium, Mezilaurus, Sextonia, and Williamodendron. The phylogenetic analysis of Mezilaurus and related genera was based on trnH–psbA and ITS of ten species of Mezilaurus and thirteen outgroup species. Maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference were performed for each marker separately and for combined datasets. The combined analyses confirmed the monophyly of the Mezilaurus group, but did not support sister relationships of Anaueria and Chlorocardium. The Mezilauroids, containing Mezilaurus, Sextonia, and Williamodendron, formed a well–supported clade. However, the genus Mezilaurus, as currently defined, is not monophyletic and the Mezilaurus mahuba group (Mezilaurus mahuba, M. triunca) emerged as sister to Sextonia. Therefore, we suggest to remove the Mezilaurus mahuba group from Mezilaurus and re–establish it as Clinostemon. Mezilaurus and Clinostemon share rythmic branching with distally clustered leaves, bisexual flowers, three fertile stamens, representing the third androecial whorl, 2–locular anthers and a minute discoid cupule. Clinostemon, however, has stamens with downward recurved anthers and one pair of glands at the base of the filaments, while in Mezilaurus the anthers are erect and glands are absent.
Lectotypification of names of Neotropical species of Mucuna (Leguminosae: Papilionoideae: Phaseoleae)
Authors: Moura Tânia M. , Tozzi Ana Maria G.A. , Mansano Vidal F. , Lewis Gwilym P.
Published: July 2013

Systematic studies of Neotropical species of Mucuna are relatively scarce. As a precursor to further taxonomic studies of this genus, we here propose lectotypes for seven New World taxa.
Typifications and taxonomic notes in species of Brazilian Goodyerinae and Spiranthinae (Orchidaceae) described by José Vellozo and Barbosa Rodrigues
Authors: Buzatto Cristiano Roberto , Singer Rodrigo B. , Romero-González Gustavo A. , van den Berg Cássio , Salazar Gerardo A.
Published: July 2013

A total of 46 lectotypes, one neotype and one epitype are designated for species of Goodyerinae and Spiranthinae originally described by José Mariano da Conceição Vellozo and João Barbosa Rodrigues. Moreover, three new previously accepted names are treated as synonyms.
Genetic, cytological and morphological differentiation within the Balkan‐CarpathianSesleria rigidasensu Fl. Eur. (Poaceae): A taxonomically intricate tetraploid‐octoploid complex
Authors: Kuzmanović Nevena , Comanescu Petronela , Frajman Božo , Lazarević Maja , Paun Ovidiu , Schönswetter Peter , Lakušić Dmitar
Published: July 2013

Reconstruction of relationships among populations of the morphologically polymorphic and taxonomically intricateSesleria rigidasensu Fl. Eur. based on Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphisms (AFLPs) revealed four clearly differentiated genetic groups that did only partly follow recent taxonomic concepts, but were strictly allopatric. While some of the previously described taxa constitute distinct genetic entities, others have no taxonomic value. Synthesizing our AFLP data with ploidy‐level information obtained from all genetically investigated individuals as well as with chromosome counts revealed that tetraploid individuals prevail, while octoploids occur only withinS. filifolia. Lack of AFLP divergence between tetra‐ and octoploids suggests an autopolyploid origin of the latter. The genetic differentiation pattern was reflected by morphological differentiation, allowing for a taxonomic revision of the constituents ofS. rigidasensu Fl. Eur. resulting in recognition of the four speciesS. achtarovii,S. filifolia,S. rigida, andS. serbica.
The SALIX Method: A semi‐automated workflow for herbarium specimen digitization
Authors: Barber Anne , Lafferty Daryl , Landrum Leslie R.
Published: July 2013

Supported by a United States American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant, we have developed a workflow, "the SALIX Method", to image, database, and provide web access to ca. 60,000 Latin American plant specimens housed at the Arizona State University Herbarium. The SALIX Method incorporates optical character recognition using ABBYY FineReader and uses other proprietary software for word processing (Microsoft Word) and image management (Adobe Lightroom). We developed the other applications ourselves: SALIX for text parsing, and BarcodeRenamer (BCR) for renaming image files to match their barcodes. We use our Symbiota data portal (SEINet) to provide web access to collections data and images. Data entry was found to be about as fast to considerably faster using the SALIX Method than by keystroke entry directly into SEINet. Speed is dependent on label quality and length as well as user proficiency.
Molecular phylogeny of the platycodonoid group (Campanulaceae s.str.) with special reference to the circumscription of Codonopsis
Authors: Wang Qiang , Zhou Shi-Liang , Hong De-Yuan
Published: July 2013

Phylogenetic analyses of 41 taxa representing all genera except Ostrowskia of the platycodonoid group were done using sequences of five DNA fragments from the chloroplast and nuclear genomes. The results show that the platycodonoid group is a monophyletic group, and that four major clades can be recognized: (1) the Platycodon clade with colporate pollen, including Platycodon, Canarina, Cyclocodon, and Echinocodon; (2) the Cyananthus clade with colpate pollen and a superior ovary, including only Cyananthus; (3) the long‐colpus clade with long‐colpus pollen, an inferior ovary, and a disc or glands, including Codonopsis subg. Codonopsis, Campanumoea, and Leptocodon; and (4) the short‐colpus clade with short‐colpus pollen, an inferior ovary, and without a disc or glands, including Codonopsis subg. Pseudocodonopsis, subg. Obconicicapsula, and C. purpurea of Codonopsis subg. Codonopsis. These four major clades are strongly supported and well correlated with pollen type and morphology. The results support the separation of Cyclocodon from Codonopsis as a genus. The results also indicate that Campanumoea and Leptocodon should be merged with Codonopsis, whereas all taxa of the short‐colpus clade should be separated from Codonopsis.
Evolutionary relationships in Gorteria: A re‐evaluation
Authors: Stångberg Frida , Ellis Allan G. , Anderberg Arne A.
Published: July 2013

A molecular phylogeny of the mainly South African genus Gorteria is presented for the first time, based on Bayesian inference and parsimony analyses using DNA sequences from plastid trnL‐F and from nuclear ETS and ITS regions. It is shown that the genus is strongly paraphyletic in relation to one subgroup of Hirpicium, a finding that changes the prevailing generic concept and circumscription of Gorteria and Hirpicium. Furthermore, Gorteria diffusa and G. personata both seem to be polyphyletic assemblages, comprised of some more or less well diagnosed monophyletic groups with different distributions.
Molecular phylogenetics and character evolution of Cannabaceae
Authors: Yang Mei-Qing , van Velzen Robin , Bakker Freek T. , Sattarian Ali , Li De-Zhu , Yi Ting-Shuang
Published: July 2013

Cannabaceae includes ten genera that are widely distributed in tropical to temperate regions of the world. Because of limited taxon and character sampling in previous studies, intergeneric phylogenetic relationships within this family have been poorly resolved. We conducted a molecular phylogenetic study based on four plastid loci (atpB‐rbcL, rbcL, rps16, trnL‐trnF) from 36 ingroup taxa, representing all ten recognized Cannabaceae genera, and six related taxa as outgroups. The molecular results strongly supported this expanded family to be a monophyletic group. All genera were monophyletic except for Trema, which was paraphyletic with respect to Parasponia. The Aphananthe clade was sister to all other Cannabaceae, and the other genera formed a strongly supported clade further resolved into a Lozanella clade, a Gironniera clade, and a trichotomy formed by the remaining genera. Morphological ancestral state reconstructions indicated the complex evolution pattern of most analyzed morphological characters, and it is difficult to identify morphological synapomorphies for most clades within Cannabaceae.
Influence of physical properties of cuvette surface on measurement of serum lipase
Authors: Cattoir Lien , Pede Valerie , Decavele An-Sofie , De Buyzere Marc L. , Speeckaert Marijn M. , Seccombe David , Boterberg Veerle , Dubruel Peter , de Bisschop Frank , Delanghe Joris R.
Published: July 2013

Background: Despite striking similarities among colorimetric lipase assay recipes, marked intervendor differences are noted in the reported lipase values. In the present study, the effect of physical properties of the cuvette surface on measurement of serum lipase was investigated.

Methods: Lipase activity was measured concomitantly in cuvettes from three different analyzers: Vista (Siemens), Modular (Roche), and Synchron (Beckman Coulter). The surface/volume ratio of the cuvettes and the contact angle of the cuvette polymers were determined. The effects of various characteristics of serum (biochemical parameters, surface tension) were also examined.

Results: Serum lipase activities based on the colorimetric methylresorufin assay differed markedly according to the cuvettes used. More specifically, in the lower activity rate, marked differences were reported. The physical properties of the various cuvettes showed remarkable differences, especially in the contact angles. Other biochemical parameters (bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides) and serum surface tension did not affect the results.

Conclusions: Serum lipase activity is affected by the physical properties of the cuvette surface.
Synthesis of novel 2-arylsulfonylimino-3,4- dimethyl-5-(5-S-substituted [1,3,4]oxadiazol- 2-yl)-2,3-dihydrothiazole derivatives and their plant growth stimulant activity
Authors: Eliazyan Karine A. , Hakobyan Ruzanna S. , Pivazyan Vergush A. , Ghazaryan Emma A. , Harutyunyan Siranush V. , Yengoyan Aleksandr P.
Published: July 2013

2-Arylsulfonylimino-3,4-dimethyl-2,3-dihydrothiazole-5-carboxylic acid hydrazides 2 were obtained from corresponding 2-arylsulfonylimino-4-methyl-2,3-dihydrothiazole-5-carboxylic acid ethyl esters 1 in a two-step synthesis. Heterocyclization of the hydrazide moiety yielded 2-arylsulfonylimino-3,4-dimethyl-5-(5-thioxo-4,5-dihydro-[1,3,4]oxadiazol-2-yl)-2,3-dihydro-thiazoles 3. Treatment of compounds 3 with various alkyl halides gave corresponding S-substituted derivatives 4–6. The plant growth stimulant activities of synthesized compounds were compared with those of similar [1,2,4]triazol- and [1,3,4,]thiadiazol-2-yl-thiazoles.
Nonlocal response in plasmonic waveguiding with extreme light confinement
Authors: Toscano Giuseppe , Raza Søren , Yan Wei , Jeppesen Claus , Xiao Sanshui , Wubs Martijn , Jauho Antti-Pekka , Bozhevolnyi Sergey I. , Mortensen N. Asger
Published: July 2013

We present a novel wave equation for linearized plasmonic response, obtained by combining the coupled real-space differential equations for the electric field and current density. Nonlocal dynamics are fully accounted for, and the formulation is very well suited for numerical implementation, allowing us to study waveguides with subnanometer cross-sections exhibiting extreme light confinement. We show that groove and wedge waveguides have a fundamental lower limit in their mode confinement, only captured by the nonlocal theory. The limitation translates into an upper limit for the corresponding Purcell factors, and thus has important implications for quantum plasmonics.
The Difference Between Exercise-Induced Autonomic and Fitness Changes Measured After 12 and 20 Weeks of Medium-to-High Intensity Military Training
Authors: Grant Catharina C. , Mongwe Lot , Janse van Rensburg Dina C. , Fletcher Lizelle , Wood Paola S. , Terblanche Etrisia , du Toit Peet J.
Published: July 2013

Grant, CC, Mongwe, L, Janse van Rensburg, DC, Fletcher, L, Wood, PS, Terblanche, E, and du Toit, PJ. The difference between exercise-induced autonomic and fitness changes measured after 12 and 20 weeks of medium-to-high intensity military training. J Strength Cond Res 30(9): 2453–2459, 2016—The aim of this study was to compare the physical fitness, based on VO2max and exercise-induced cardiac autonomic changes, measured by heart rate variability (HRV) of 12 weeks with 20 weeks of training in the South African National Defence Force. Recruits (n = 154) participated in a medium-to-high intensity exercise intervention (daily energy expenditure: 8,485 kJ·d−1). The significant effect on VO2max between weeks 1 and 12 (48.57, SD = 9.25 vs. 53.36, SD = 7.21] did not continue during weeks 12–20 (53.36, SD = 7.21 vs. 53.87, SD = 7.87). No changes in the supine low frequency (LF)/high frequency (HF) (0.48, SD = 0.51 vs. 0.41, SD = 0.64) or the standing LF/HF (4.02, SD = 5.14 vs. 3.91, SD = 5.28), an indicator of autonomic balance and a possible indicator of overtraining syndrome, suggests that overtraining did not take place during weeks 12–20. This was confirmed with further decreases in supine and standing heart rate. However, the power of the vagal-induced variability continued to increase after 12 weeks. Increased vagal influence without concurrent change in autonomic balance may be interpreted as decreased sympathetic cardiac control. It is important to note that although no fitness changes were detected, positive cardiac autonomic conditioning did continue between weeks 12 and 20, as measured by increased vagal-induced HRV and decreased sympathetic influence on cardiac control. Results may be extrapolated to training in the normal population/athletes after a medium-to-high intensity exercise program, as this intervention was a closely monitored and standardized exercise program.