bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in use of time, activity patterns, and health and wellbeing across retirement: design and methods of the life after work study
Authors: Maher Carol A , Burton Nicola W , van Uffelen Jannique GZ , Brown Wendy J , Sprod Judy A , Olds Tim S
Published: October 2013

Background

Retirement is a major life transition during which people restructure everyday activities; however little is known about this. The primary aim of the Life After Work study is to comprehensively measure changes in time use and patterns of physical activity and sedentary behaviour, and its associations with health and wellbeing, across the retirement transition.

Methods/Design

A target sample of 120 participants aged 50 years and over will be recruited in two Australian state capital cities, Adelaide and Brisbane. Participants will undertake a battery of assessments approximately 3 months prior to retirement, and 3, 6 and 12 months post-retirement. Measures will include self-reported use of time (using the Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adults), objectively assessed physical activity and sedentary behaviour (using Actigraph GT3X+ accelerometers), self-reported health and well-being (using a battery of questionnaires including the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), Australian Unity Personal Well-being Index (AUPWI), Depression Anxiety Stress Scales 21 (DASS21), Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale, UCLA Loneliness Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale), retirement circumstances and socio-demographic characteristics, objectively assessed anthropometric measures (height, weight and waist circumference), and resting blood pressure. Multivariate mixed models will be used to examine changes in use of time, health and well-being across retirement.

Discussion

The results will provide important new information that will inform the development of lifestyle and policy interventions to address and improve health and well-being in retirement.
Clinical profile of recurrent community-acquired pneumonia in children
Authors: Patria Francesca , Longhi Benedetta , Tagliabue Claudia , Tenconi Rossana , Ballista Patrizia , Ricciardi Giuseppe , Galeone Carlotta , Principi Nicola , Esposito Susanna
Published: October 2013

Background

The aim of this case–control study was to analyse the clinical characteristics of children with recurrent community-acquired pneumonia (rCAP) affecting different lung areas (DLAs) and compare them with those of children who have never experienced CAP in order to contribute to identifying the best approach to such patients.

Methods

The study involved 146 children with ≥2 episodes of radiographically confirmed CAP in DLA in a single year (or ≥3 episodes in any time frame) with radiographic clearing of densities between occurrences, and 145 age- and gender-matched controls enrolled in Milan, Italy, between January 2009 and December 2012. The demographic and clinical characteristics of the cases and controls were compared, and a comparison was also made between the cases with rCAP (i.e. ≤3 episodes) and those with highly recurrent CAP (hrCAP: i.e. >3 episodes).

Results

Gestational age at birth (p = 0.003), birth weight (p = 0.006), respiratory distress at birth (p < 0.001), and age when starting day care attendance (p < 0.001) were significantly different between the cases and controls, and recurrent infectious wheezing (p < 0.001), chronic rhinosinusitis with post-nasal drip (p < 0.001), recurrent upper respiratory tract infections (p < 0.001), atopy/allergy (p < 0.001) and asthma (p < 0.001) were significantly more frequent. Significant risk factors for hrCAP were gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD; p = 0.04), a history of atopy and/or allergy (p = 0.005), and a diagnosis of asthma (p = 0.0001) or middle lobe syndrome (p = 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis, adjusted for age and gender, showed that all of the risk factors other than GERD and wheezing were associated with hrCAP.

Conclusions

The diagnostic approach to children with rCAP in DLAs is relatively easy in the developed world, where the severe chronic underlying diseases favouring rCAP are usually identified early, and patients with chronic underlying disease are diagnosed before the occurrence of rCAP in DLAs. When rCAP in DLAs does occur, an evaluation of the patients’ history and clinical findings make it possible to limit diagnostic investigations.
Water vapour is a pre-oviposition attractant for the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto
Authors: Okal Michael N , Francis Benjamin , Herrera-Varela Manuela , Fillinger Ulrike , Lindsay Steven W
Published: October 2013

Background

To date no semiochemicals affecting the pre-oviposition behaviour of the malaria vectorAnopheles gambiae sensu latohave been described. Water vapour must be the major chemical signal emanating from a potential larval habitat, and although one might expect that gravidAn. gambiae s.l.detect and respond to water vapour in their search for an aquatic habitat, this has never been experimentally confirmed for this species. This study aimed to investigate the role of relative humidity or water vapour as a general cue for inducing gravidAn. gambiae sensu strictoto make orientated movements towards the source.

Methods

Three experiments were carried out with insectary-rearedAn. gambiae s.s.One with unfed females and two with gravid females during their peak oviposition time in the early evening. First, unfed females and gravid females were tested separately in still air where a humidity difference was established between opposite ends of a WHO bioassay tube and mosquitoes released individually in the centre of the tube. Movement of mosquitoes to either low or high humidity was recorded. Additionally, gravid mosquitoes were released into a larger air-flow olfactometer and responses measured towards collection chambers that contained cups filled with water or empty cups.

Results

Unfed females equally dispersed in the small bioassay tubes to areas of high and low humidity (mean 50% (95% confidence interval (CI) 38-62%). In contrast, gravid females were 2.4 times (95% CI 1.3-4.7) more likely to move towards high humidity than unfed females. The results were even more pronounced in the airflow olfactometer. Gravid females were 10.6 times (95% CI 5.4-20.8) more likely to enter the chamber with water than a dry chamber.

Conclusions

Water vapour is a strong pre-oviposition attractant to gravidAn. gambiae s.s.in still and moving air and is likely to be a general cue used by mosquitoes for locating aquatic habitats.
First report of granulomatous mastitis associated with Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Letourneux Christel , Diemunsch Pierre , Korganow Anne-Sophie , Akladios Cherif Youssef , Bellocq Jean-Pierre , Mathelin Carole
Published: October 2013

Granulomatous mastitis is a rare and often considered as idiopathic disease. However, clinical examination and thorough diagnostic investigations have to be carried out in order to identify cases that are secondary to infections or systemic diseases since these forms may be cured with appropriate etiologic treatment. To the best of our knowledge, this report is the first to describe the association of granulomatous mastitis with Sjögren’s syndrome. We discuss the clinical, pathological and therapeutic implications of this association.
Caveolin-1 in renal cell carcinoma promotes tumour cell invasion, and in co-operation with pERK predicts metastases in patients with clinically confined disease
Authors: Campbell Lee , Al-Jayyoussi Ghaith , Gutteridge Robert , Gumbleton Nigel , Griffiths Rosie , Gumbleton Simon , Smith Mathew W , Griffiths David FR , Gumbleton Mark
Published: October 2013

Background

Up to 40% of patients initially diagnosed with clinically-confined renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and who undergo curative surgery will nevertheless relapse with metastatic disease (mRCC) associated with poor long term survival. The discovery of novel prognostic/predictive biomarkers and drug targets is needed and in this context the aim of the current study was to investigate a putative caveolin-1/ERK signalling axis in clinically confined RCC, and to examine in a panel of RCC cell lines the effects of caveolin-1 (Cav-1) on pathological processes (invasion and growth) and select signalling pathways.

Methods

Using immunohistochemistry we assessed the expression of both Cav-1 and phosphorylated-ERK (pERK) in 176 patients with clinically confined RCC, their correlation with histological parameters and their impact upon disease-free survival. Using a panel of RCC cell lines we explored the functional effects of Cav-1 knockdown upon cell growth, cell invasion and VEGF-A secretion, as well Cav-1 regulation by cognate cell signalling pathways.

Results

We found a significant correlation (P = 0.03) between Cav-1 and pERK in a cohort of patients with clinically confined disease which represented a prognostic biomarker combination (HR = 4.2) that effectively stratified patients into low, intermediate and high risk groups with respect to relapse, even if the patients’ tumours displayed low grade and/or low stage disease. In RCC cell lines Cav-1 knockdown unequivocally reduced cell invasive capacity while also displaying both pro-and anti-proliferative effects; targeted knockdown of Cav-1 also partially suppressed VEGF-A secretion in VHL-negative RCC cells. The actions of Cav-1 in the RCC cell lines appeared independent of both ERK and AKT/mTOR signalling pathways.

Conclusion

The combined expression of Cav-1 and pERK serves as an independent biomarker signature with potential merit in RCC surveillance strategies able to predict those patients with clinically confined disease who will eventually relapse. In a panel of in-vitro RCC cells Cav-1 promotes cell invasion with variable effects on cell growth and VEGF-A secretion. Cav-1 has potential as a therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of mRCC.
Metal-sensitive and thermostable trypsin from the crevalle jack (Caranx hippos) pyloric caeca: purification and characterization
Authors: Costa Helane MS , Freitas Júnior Augusto CV , Amaral Ian PG , Hirata Izaura Y , Paiva Patrícia MG , Carvalho Luiz B , Oliveira Vitor , Bezerra Ranilson S
Published: October 2013

Background

Over the past decades, the economic development and world population growth has led to increased for food demand. Increasing the fish production is considered one of the alternatives to meet the increased food demand, but the processing of fish leads to by-products such as skin, bones and viscera, a source of environmental contamination. Fish viscera have been reported as an important source of digestive proteases with interesting characteristics for biotechnological processes. Thus, the aim of this study was to purify and to characterize a trypsin from the processing by-products of crevalle jack (Caranx hippos) fish.

Results

A 27.5 kDa trypsin with N-terminal amino acid sequence IVGGFECTPHVFAYQ was easily purified from the pyloric caeca of the crevalle jack. Its physicochemical and kinetic properties were evaluated using N-α-benzoyl-DL-arginine-p-nitroanilide (BApNA) as substrate. In addition, the effects of various metal ions and specific protease inhibitors on trypsin activity were determined. Optimum pH and temperature were 8.0 and 50°C, respectively. After incubation at 50°C for 30 min the enzyme lost only 20% of its activity. Km, kcat, and kcat/Km values using BApNA as substrate were 0.689 mM, 6.9 s-1, and 10 s-1 mM-1, respectively. High inhibition of trypsin activity was observed after incubation with Cd2+, Al3+, Zn2+, Cu2+, Pb2+, and Hg2+ at 1 mM, revealing high sensitivity of the enzyme to metal ions.

Conclusions

Extraction of a thermostable trypsin from by-products of the fishery industry confirms the potential of these materials as an alternative source of these biomolecules. Furthermore, the results suggest that this trypsin-like enzyme presents interesting biotechnological properties for industrial applications.
Nebulised amphotericin B to eradicate Candida colonisation from the respiratory tract in critically ill patients receiving selective digestive decontamination: a cohort study
Authors: Ong David SY , MC Klein Klouwenberg Peter , Spitoni Cristian , Bonten Marc JM , Cremer Olaf L
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Colonisation of the lower respiratory tract with Candida species occurs in 25% of mechanically ventilated critically ill patients, and is associated with increased morbidity. Nebulised amphotericin B has been used to eradicate Candida as part of selective decontamination of the digestive tract (SDD) protocols, but its effectiveness is unknown. We aimed to determine the effectiveness of nebulised amphotericin B in eradicating Candida respiratory tract colonisation in patients receiving SDD.

Methods

We included consecutive mechanically ventilated patients during a four-year period. Microbiological screening was performed upon admission and twice weekly thereafter according to a standardised protocol. A colonisation episode was defined as the presence of Candida species in two consecutive sputum samples taken at least one day apart. To correct for time-varying bias and possible confounding, we used a multistate approach and performed time-varying Cox regression with adjustment for age, disease severity, Candida load at baseline and concurrent corticosteroid use.

Results

Among 1,819 patients, colonisation with Candida occurred 401 times in 363 patients; 333 of these events were included for analysis. Decolonisation occurred in 51 of 59 episodes (86%) and in 170 of 274 episodes (62%) in patients receiving and not receiving nebulised amphotericin B, respectively. Nebulised amphotericin B was associated with an increased rate of Candida eradication (crude HR 2.0; 95% CI 1.4 to 2.7, adjusted HR 2.2; 95% CI 1.6 to 3.0). Median times to decolonisation were six and nine days, respectively. The incidence rate of ventilator-associated pneumonia, length of stay and mortality did not differ between both groups.

Conclusions

Nebulised amphotericin B reduces the duration of Candida colonisation in the lower respiratory tracts of mechanically ventilated critically ill patients receiving SDD, but data remain lacking that this is associated with a meaningful improvement in clinical outcomes. Until more evidence becomes available, nebulised amphotericin B should not be used routinely as part of the SDD protocol.
Feasibility, acceptability and efficacy of a school-based prevention programme for eating disorders: Cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Sharpe Helen , Schober Ilka , Treasure Janet , Schmidt Ulrike
Published: October 2013

Background

Body image dissatisfaction during adolescence is common but not benign. School-based interventions have the potential for wide reach, but scalability of previous programmes is limited by a reliance on external facilitators.

Aims

To assess the acceptability, feasibility and efficacy of a teacher-delivered body image intervention.

Method

A pilot clustered randomised controlled trial in which 16 classes of adolescent girls were allocated to a 6-session body image programme (n= 261), or usual curriculum control (n= 187) (registration: ISRCTN42594993).

Results

Students in the intervention group had significantly improved body esteem and self-esteem and reduced thin-ideal internalisation. Effects for body esteem and thin-ideal internalisation were maintained for 3 months. There were no group differences for eating pathology, peer factors or depression. Acceptability, feasibility and efficacy varied between schools.

Conclusions

Teacher-delivered body image lessons have promise but further work is needed to increase efficacy and make interventions suitable across a range of schools.
Aerobic scope does not predict the performance of a tropical eurythermal fish at elevated temperatures
Authors: Norin Tommy , Malte Hans , Clark Timothy D.
Published: October 2013

Climate warming is predicted to negatively impact fish populations through impairment of oxygen transport systems when temperatures exceed those which are optimal for aerobic scope (AS). This concept of oxygen- and capacity-limited thermal tolerance (OCLTT) is rapidly gaining popularity within climate change research and has been applied to several fish species. Here, we evaluated the relevance of aerobic performance of juvenile barramundi (Lates calcarifer) in the context of thermal preference and tolerance by (1) measuring standard and maximum metabolic rates (SMR and MMR, respectively) and AS of fish acclimated to 29°C and acutely exposed to temperatures from 23 to 38°C, (2) allowing the fish to behaviourally select a preferred temperature between 29 and 38°C, and (3) quantifying alterations to AS after five weeks of acclimation to 29 and 38°C. SMR and MMR both increased continuously with temperature in acutely exposed fish, but the increase was greater for MMR such that AS was highest at 38°C, a temperature approaching the upper lethal limit (40-41°C). Despite 38°C eliciting maximum AS, when given the opportunity the fish selected a median temperature of 31.7±0.5°C and spent only 10±3% of their time at temperatures >36°C. Following acclimation to 38°C, AS measured at 38°C was decreased to the same level as 29°C-acclimated fish measured at 29°C, suggesting that AS may be dynamically modulated independent of temperature to accommodate the requirements of daily life. Together, these results reveal limited power of the OCLTT hypothesis in predicting optimal temperatures and effects of climate warming on juvenile barramundi.
Longitudinal trends in thyroid function in relation to iodine intake: ongoing changes of thyroid function despite adequate current iodine status
Authors: van de Ven Annenienke C , Netea-Maier Romana T , Ross H Alec , van Herwaarden Teun A E , Holewijn Suzanne , de Graaf Jacqueline , Kiemeney Bart L A , van Tienoven Doorlène , Wetzels Jack F M , Smit Johannes W , Sweep Fred C G J , Hermus Ad R M M , den Heijer Martin
Published: October 2013

Objective

Several cross-sectional studies on populations with iodine deficiency showed that TSH-levels are negatively associated with age, while in populations with high iodine intake TSH is positively associated with age. The question is whether such an age-thyroid function relation is an ongoing process apparent also in longitudinal studies and whether it reflects an actual iodine deficiency or an iodine insufficiency in the past.

Methods

In an area with a borderline iodine status in the past, we studied 980 participants of the Nijmegen Biomedical Study. We measured serum TSH, free thyroxine (FT4), total triiodothyronine (T3), peroxidase antibodies, and the urine iodine and creatinine concentration 4 years after our initial survey of thyroid function, in which we reported a negative association between TSH and age.

Results

Within 4 years, TSH decreased by 5.4% (95% CI 2.5–8.3%) and FT4increased by 3.7% (95% CI 2.9–4.6%). Median urinary iodine concentration was 130 μg/l. Estimated 24-h iodine excretion was not associated with TSH, T3, change of TSH, or FT4over time or with the presence of antibodies against thyroid peroxidase. Only FT4appeared to be somewhat higher at lower urine iodine levels: a 1.01% (95% CI 0.17–1.84%) higher FT4for each lower iodine quintile.

Conclusions

In this longitudinal study, we found an ongoing decrease in TSH and increase in FT4in a previously iodine insufficient population, despite the adequate iodine status at present. This suggests that low iodine intake at young age leads to thyroid autonomy (and a tendency to hyperthyroidism) that persists despite normal iodine intake later in life.
Right ventricular and right atrial function and deformation in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism: a two- and three-dimensional echocardiographic study
Authors: Tadic Marijana , Ilic Sanja , Celic Vera
Published: October 2013

Background

We sought to investigate right ventricular (RV) function and deformation assessed by three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) and speckle tracking in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism (SHT), and to evaluate the influence of levothyroxine (l-T4) therapy on RV remodeling.

Methods

We included 50 untreated women with SHT and 45 healthy control women matched by age. Thel-T4therapy was prescribed to all SHT patients who were followed 1 year after euthyroid status was achieved. All study participants underwent laboratory analyses which included thyroid hormone levels, and complete two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE) and 3DE examinations.

Results

3DE RV end-diastolic volume and ejection fraction were significantly reduced in the SHT patients before therapy in comparison with the healthy controls and treated SHT subjects. RV longitudinal strain, systolic, and early diastolic strain rates (SRs) were significantly decreased, whereas RV late diastolic SR was increased in the SHT patients before therapy when comparing with the controls. 2DE speckle tracking imaging revealed thatl-T4substitution therapy significantly improved RV systolic mechanics, whereas RV diastolic deformation was not completely recovered. Right atrial (RA) function and deformation were significantly impacted by SHT. Replacementl-T4treatment improved but did not completely restore RA mechanics in the SHT patients.

Conclusion

RV and RA function and mechanics are significantly affected by SHT.l-T4therapy and 1-year maintenance of euthyroid status improved but did not completely recover RV and RA function and deformation in the SHT patients, which implies that right heart remodeling caused by SHT is not reversible in a 1-year period.
Improvement of selective screening strategy for gestational diabetes through a more accurate definition of high-risk groups
Authors: Pintaudi Basilio , Di Vieste Giacoma , Corrado Francesco , Lucisano Giuseppe , Pellegrini Fabio , Giunta Loretta , Nicolucci Antonio , D'Anna Rosario , Di Benedetto Antonino
Published: October 2013

Objective

This study aimed to assess the predictive value of risk factors (RFs) for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) established by selective screening (SS) and to identify subgroups of women at a higher risk of developing GDM.

Design

A retrospective, single-center study design was employed.

Methods

Data of 1015 women screened for GDM at 24–28 weeks of gestation and diagnosed according to the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups criteria were evaluated. Information on RFs established by SS was also collected and their association with GDM was determined. To identify distinct and homogeneous subgroups of patients at a higher risk, the RECursive Partitioning and AMalgamation (RECPAM) method was used.

Results

Overall, 113 (11.1%) women were diagnosed as having GDM. The application of the SS criteria would result in the execution of an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in 58.3% of women and 26 (23.0%) cases of GDM would not be detected due to the absence of any RF. The RECPAM analysis identified high-risk subgroups characterized by fasting plasma glucose values >5.1 mmol/l (odds ratio (OR)=26.5; 95% CI 14.3–49.0) and pre-pregnancy BMI (OR=7.0; 95% CI 3.9–12.8 for overweight women). In a final logistic model including RECPAM classes, previous macrosomia (OR=3.6; 95% CI 1.1–11.6), and family history of diabetes (OR=1.8; 95% CI 1.1–2.8), but not maternal age, were also found to be associated with an increased risk of developing GDM. A screening approach based on the RECPAM model would reduce by over 50% (23.0 vs 10.6%) the number of undiagnosed GDM cases when compared with the current SS approach, at the expense of 50 additional OGTTs required.

Conclusions

A screening approach based on our RECPAM model results in a significant reduction in the number of undetected GDM cases compared with the current SS procedure.
Chemical constituents of Distictella elongata (Vahl) Urb. (Bignoniaceae)
Authors: SIMOES LEANDRO R. , MACIEL GLAUBER M. , BRANDAO GERALDO C. , FILHO JOSE D.S. , OLIVEIRA ALAIDE B. , CASTILHO RACHEL O.
Published: October 2013

Pectolinarin, a flavone heteroside, was isolated from Distictella elongata (Vahl) Urb. leaves ethanol extract, along with a mixture of ursolic, pomolic and oleanolic acids, besides β-sitosterol. Their structures were established on the basis of spectral analysis (1H and 13C NMR, 1D and 2D) and they were compared with literature. This is the first report on the occurrence of this flavonoid in a species of the Bignoniaceae family.
A study of structural lineaments in Pantanal (Brazil) using remote sensing data
Authors: PARANHOS FILHO ANTONIO C. , NUMMER ALEXIS R. , ALBREZ EDILCE A. , RIBEIRO ALISSON A. , MACHADO ROMULO
Published: October 2013

This paper presents a study of the structural lineaments of the Pantanal extracted visually from satellite images (CBERS-2B satellite, Wide Field Imager sensor, a free image available in INTERNET) and a comparison with the structural lineaments of Precambrian and Paleozoic rocks surrounding the Cenozoic Pantanal Basin. Using a free software for satellite image analysis, the photointerpretation showed that the NS, NE and NW directions observed on the Pantanal satellite images are the same recorded in the older rocks surrounding the basin, suggesting reactivation of these basement structural directions during the Quaternary. So the Pantanal Basin has an active tectonics and its evolution seems to be linked to changes that occurred during the Andean subduction.
Evaluation of analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of Hydrocotyle umbellata L., Araliaceae (acariçoba) in mice
Authors: FLORENTINO IZIARA F. , NASCIMENTO MARCUS VINICIUS M. , GALDINO PABLINNY M. , BRITO ADRIANE F. DE , ROCHA FABIO F. DA , TONUSSI CARLOS R. , LIMA THEREZA CHRISTINA M. DE , PAULA JOSE R. DE , COSTA ELSON A.
Published: October 2013

The Hydrocotyle umbellata L. is a specimen of the Araliaceae family popularly known as acariçoba. Its indications in folk medicine include treatment of skin ulcers, and rheumatism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the ethanolic extract from acariçoba's underground parts (EEA). EEA reduced the nociceptive response of the animals as evaluated in the acetic acid-induced writhing test and in both phases of formalin test. EEA also presented a supraspinal analgesic activity by increasing the pain latency in the hot plate test. Moreover, EEA reduced the leukocytes migration and plasma extravasation to pleural cavity in the carrageenan-induced pleurisy, besides reducing the edema induced by carrageenan until the second hour and also the edema induced by dextran. In conclusion our results showed that EEA of H. umbellata L. presents analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, and that a blockade of activity or reduction in the release of different mediators, such as histamine and serotonin, could be involved in these pharmacologic effects.
Treadmill exercise does not change gene expression of adrenal catecholamine biosynthetic enzymes in chronically stressed rats
Authors: GAVRILOVIC LJUBICA , STOJILJKOVIC VESNA , KASAPOVIC JELENA , POPOVIC NATASA , PAJOVIC SNEZANA B. , DRONJAK SLADJANA
Published: October 2013

ABSTRACT Chronic isolation of adult animals represents a form of psychological stress that produces sympatho-adrenomedullar activation. Exercise training acts as an important modulator of sympatho-adrenomedullary system. This study aimed to investigate physical exercise-related changes in gene expression of catecholamine biosynthetic enzymes (tyrosine hydroxylase, dopamine-ß-hydroxylase and phenylethanolamine N-methyltransferase) and cyclic adenosine monophosphate response element-binding (CREB) in the adrenal medulla, concentrations of catecholamines and corticosterone (CORT) in the plasma and the weight of adrenal glands of chronically psychosocially stressed adult rats exposed daily to 20 min treadmill running for 12 weeks. Also, we examined how additional acute immobilization stress changes the mentioned parameters. Treadmill running did not result in modulation of gene expression of catecholamine synthesizing enzymes and it decreased the level of CREB mRNA in the adrenal medulla of chronically psychosocially stressed adult rats. The potentially negative physiological adaptations after treadmill running were recorded as increased concentrations of catecholamines and decreased morning CORT concentration in the plasma, as well as the adrenal gland hypertrophy of chronically psychosocially stressed rats. The additional acute immobilization stress increases gene expression of catecholamine biosynthetic enzymes in the adrenal medulla, as well as catecholamines and CORT levels in the plasma. Treadmill exercise does not change the activity of sympatho-adrenomedullary system of chronically psychosocially stressed rats.
Nuclear entropy, angular second moment, variance and texture correlation of thymus cortical and medullar lymphocytes: Grey level co-occurrence matrix analysis
Authors: PANTIC IGOR , PANTIC SENKA , PAUNOVIC JOVANA , PEROVIC MILAN
Published: October 2013

Grey level co-occurrence matrix analysis (GLCM) is a well-known mathematical method for quantification of cell and tissue textural properties, such as homogeneity, complexity and level of disorder. Recently, it was demonstrated that this method is capable of evaluating fine structural changes in nuclear structure that otherwise are undetectable during standard microscopy analysis. In this article, we present the results indicating that entropy, angular second moment, variance, and texture correlation of lymphocyte nuclear structure determined by GLCM method are different in thymus cortex when compared to medulla. A total of 300 thymus lymphocyte nuclei from 10 one-month-old mice were analyzed: 150 nuclei from cortex and 150 nuclei from medullar regions of thymus. Nuclear GLCM analysis was carried out using National Institutes of Health ImageJ software. For each nucleus, entropy, angular second moment, variance and texture correlation were determined. Cortical lymphocytes had significantly higher chromatin angular second moment (p < 0.001) and texture correlation (p < 0.05) compared to medullar lymphocytes. Nuclear GLCM entropy and variance of cortical lymphocytes were on the other hand significantly lower than in medullar lymphocytes (p < 0.001). These results suggest that GLCM as a method might have a certain potential in detecting discrete changes in nuclear structure associated with lymphocyte migration and maturation in thymus.
Differences in Access to Kidney Transplantation between Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Whites by Geographic Location in the United States
Authors: Arce Cristina M. , Goldstein Benjamin A. , Mitani Aya A. , Lenihan Colin R. , Winkelmayer Wolfgang C.
Published: October 2013

Background and objectives

Hispanic patients undergoing chronic dialysis are less likely to receive a kidney transplant compared with non-Hispanic whites. This study sought to elucidate disparities in the path to receipt of a deceased donor transplant between Hispanic and non-Hispanic whites.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Using the US Renal Data System, 417,801 Caucasians who initiated dialysis between January 1, 1995 and December 31, 2007 with follow-up through 2008 were identified. This study investigated time from first dialysis to first kidney transplantation, time from first dialysis to waitlisting, and time from waitlisting to kidney transplantation. Multivariable Cox regression estimated cause-specific hazard ratios (HRCS) and subdistribution (competing risk) hazard ratios (HRSD) for Hispanics versus non-Hispanic whites.

Results

Hispanics experienced lower adjusted rates of deceased donor kidney transplantation than non-Hispanic whites (HRCS, 0.77; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.75 to 0.80) measured from dialysis initiation. No meaningful differences were found in time from dialysis initiation to placement on the transplant waitlist. Once waitlisted, Hispanics had lower adjusted rates of deceased donor kidney transplantation (HRCS, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.64 to 0.68), and the association attenuated once accounting for competing risks (HRSD, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.77 to 0.81). Additionally controlling for blood type and organ procurement organization further reduced the disparity (HRSD, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.96 to 1.02).

Conclusions

After accounting for geographic location and controlling for competing risks (e.g., Hispanic survival advantage), the disparity in access to deceased donor transplantation was markedly attenuated among Hispanics compared with non-Hispanic whites. To overcome the geographic disparities that Hispanics encounter in the path to transplantation, organ allocation policy revisions are needed to improve donor organ equity.
The Self-Report Fecal Incontinence and Constipation Questionnaire in Patients With Pelvic-Floor Dysfunction Seeking Outpatient Rehabilitation
Authors: Wang Ying-Chih , Deutscher Daniel , Yen Sheng-Che , Werneke Mark W. , Mioduski Jerome E.
Published: October 2013

Background

Fecal incontinence and constipation affect men and women of all ages.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to psychometrically analyze the Fecal Incontinence and Constipation Questionnaire (FICQ) in patients seeking outpatient rehabilitation services due to pelvic-floor dysfunction (PFD).

Design

This was a retrospective analysis of cross-sectional data from 644 patients (mean age=52 years, SD=16, range=18–91) being treated for PFD in 64 outpatient rehabilitation clinics in 20 states (United States).

Methods

We assessed the 20-item FICQ for unidimensionality and local independence, differential item functioning (DIF), item fit, item hierarchical structure, and test precision using an item response theory model.

Results

Factor analyses supported the 2-factor subscales as originally defined; items related to severity of leakage or constipation. Removal of 2 leakage items improved unidimensionality and local independence of the leakage scale. Among the remaining items, 2 items were suggestive of adjustment for DIF by age group and by number of PFD comorbid conditions. Item difficulties were suitable for patients with PFD with no ceiling or floor effect. Mean item difficulty parameters for leakage and constipation subscales ranged from 38.8 to 62.3 and 28.1 to 63.3 (0–100 scale), respectively. Endorsed leakage items representing highest difficulty levels were related to delay defecation and confidence to control bowel leakage. Endorsed constipation items representing highest difficulty levels were related to the need to strain during a bowel movement and the frequency of bowel movements.

Limitations

A limitation of this study was the lack of medical diagnostic criteria to classify patients.

Conclusions

After removing 2 items and adjusting for DIF, the results supported sound psychometric properties of the FICQ items and its initial use for patients with PFD in outpatient rehabilitation services.
Morpho-hydrologic parameters and classification of the Kodku River for stream stability assessment, southern Kathmandu, Central Nepal
Authors: Tamrakar Naresh Kazi , Bajracharya Ramita , Thapa Ishwor , Sapkota Sudarshon , Paudel Prem Nath
Published: October 2013

The Kodku River Corridor is one of the most potential corridors for future development of roads that would link the southern remote areas of the Kathmandu Valley to the inner core areas. River stability is of great concern as the unstable segment of river may pose threat on infrastructures, and adjacent cultivated lands and settlement areas. In this light, the preliminary assessment of the Kodku River as a part of the stability assessment was undertaken. The broad level geomorphic and hydrologic parameters, and Level I and II classifications of the river were made to assess for stability condition.The Kodku River is a fifth order stream, extending for about 15.86 km and its watershed covering an area of 35.67 sq. km. The relative relief is extremely high to low, and diminishes with change of landforms from steep terrain in the southern part to the gentle sloped terraces in the northern part of the watershed. Drainage texture is fine to very coarse, from the southern to the norther parts of the watershed. All the stream segments are sinuous (K = 1.2) whereas the Arubot Segment is the highly meandering (1.7). Both meander wavelength and belt width increase with increasing stream order. Five types of valleys have been distinguished; I, II, IV, VI, and VIII type valleys. Based on valley type distribution, channel pattern, shape and channel slope, the stream segments have been classified using Level I assessment as ‘B’ type, ‘C’ type and ‘Aa+’ type streams. The ‘B’ type streams are all located in the third order segment. Except the ‘Aa+’ type stream, all the fifth and fourth order stream segments belong to ‘C’ type streams. Width/Depth ratio varying between 10.5 and 29.5 indicates laterally unstable channel segments. The bank height ratio, which varies between 1.6 and 2.4, indicates moderate incision and shows vertical instability of streams. The Badikhel Segment is relatively more entrenched (1.7) while the Taukhel Segment is the least entrenched (7.1). Since Entrenchment Ratio exceeds 1.6, the stream segments are considered to have moderate to low entrenchment. Based on the bed material load, the Kodku River is a gravelly mixed-load river, in which pebbles to silt/clay occur. Level II classification distinguishes three-types of streams; ‘B4c” type (Badikhel Segment), ‘C6c’ type (Taukhel Segment), and ‘C4c” type (Arubot, Thaiba and Harisidhi Segments). The ‘B4c’ type stream has tendency of vertical instability. The ‘C6c” and ‘C4c” type streams have shallow and wide meandering channels with well developed flood plains and lateral bars, and reflect tendency of lateral instability.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bdg.v16i0.8880 Bulletin of the Department of Geology Vol. 16, 2013, pp. 1–20
Geotechnical properties of construction aggregates from the Trishuli Ganga River, Galchi area, Central Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Shailendra , Tamrakar Naresh Kazi
Published: October 2013

The Trisuli Ganga River is rich in sand and gravel which are widely exposed along its banks. In recent years, quarry sites have been established and the materials have been supplied to markets. Apart from it the Trishuli III hydroelectric project is going to be established and for which a huge amount of construction aggregates will be required. From the study of sand and gravel as construction aggregates, it is found that the major composition of the sediments are metamorphosed rocks of the Lesser Himalayan rocks like gneiss, schist, quartzite, metasandstone, slate, granite, phyllite, etc. The gradation of coase aggregates range from dense to gap graded categories. Sulphate soundness value (SSV) and Los Angeles value (LAV) are 1.33–2.28% and 29.9–36.4%, respectively. These ranges show ability of the aggregates to resist weathering and abrasion, and since these values lie within international specifications, the aggregates are suitable for various uses as; both asphaltic and concrete aggregates. Considering the fine aggregates, though they contain considerable amount of quartz grains, also contain exceeding amount of mica, and possesses poor workablity. Fineness modulus ranges between 6.07 and 7.63, and exhibit dominantly sand size. Reduction of mica and further analysis for alkali-silica reactivity will enhance for its potential use. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bdg.v16i0.8883   Bulletin of the Department of Geology Vol. 16, 2013, pp. 43-52
Lithofacies and depositional environment of the Siwalik Group in Samari-Sukaura River area, Central Nepal
Authors: Syangbo Dev Kumar , Tamrakar Naresh Kazi
Published: October 2013

Thick sedimentary sequence deposited in the foreland basin of the Nepal Himalaya is represented by the Siwalik Group. The Siwalik Group is well exposed in the Samari-Sukaura River area. The present study is focused in southern portion of the MBT around the Samari-Sukaura area for its depositional environment. The Middle Siwaliks of the Sukaura Road sections is overlained by the Lower Siwaliks which is separated by the Karki Khola Thrust. Extension of the Lower Siwaliks in the Jyamire Khola and the Bundal Khola becomes wider in the eastern Zone. Repetition of the Lower Siwaliks along the southern margin of the MBT is recognized. Depending on lithofacies assemblage and facies analysis, the two broad facies assemblages FA1 and FA2 have been distinguished. FA1 shows SB, FF, LA, LS and CH architectural elements and is interpreted as a product of the fine-grained meandering river system. FA2 shows SB, FF, LA, DA and CH architectural elements and is interpreted as a product of sandy mixed-load meandering river system. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bdg.v16i0.8884   Bulletin of the Department of Geology Vol. 16, 2013, pp. 53-64
Isoflavone in Postmenopausal Women - Are They Really Effective? A Prospective Case Control Study.
Authors: Bag TS , Kyal Amit , Saha DP , Dutta R , Mondal S
Published: October 2013

A prospective case control study was conducted at Medical College, Kolkata with the aim of evaluating the role of isoflavone( a class of phytoestrogen –plant compounds having the beneficial effects of estrogen but lesser risks and side effects) in postmenopausal women. 100 postmenopausal women (those who underwent total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingooopherectomy for different benign indications, aged between 40-50 years and who were menstruating before operation) were alternately distributed into two groups-Group A (n=50, received 60mg of isoflavone and 500mg of calcium per day for 6 months) and Group B (n=50, received 500mg of calcium per day only for 6 months). To evaluate the menopausal symptoms, the menopausal Kupperman index questionnaire was applied. Other outcomes measured were body mass index, blood pressure and lipid profile. Menopausal symptoms in Group A(those using isoflavones) were lower compared to Group B. The present study showed that Kupperman index decreased significantly in Group A (from 28.48 ± 2.03 to 16.32 ± 1.06 i.e. 45% decline) compared to Group B (from 24.56 ± 1.52 to 18.44 ± 1.11 i.e. 25% decline). No differences in blood pressure or body mass index were found during treatment between the two groups. . In our study total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) decreased significantly in Group A compared to Group B. Therefore our clinical study indicates that isoflavone can be an invaluable resource for postmenopausal women for combating menopausal symptoms. Nepal Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology / Vol 7 / No. 1 / Issue 13 / Jan- June, 2012 / 11-14 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v7i1.8826
Intervention to Improve Timing of Preoperative Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Major Elective Surgery
Authors: Shah Jay N , Maharjan SB , Manandhar K , Shrestha A , Piya R , Basnet NB
Published: October 2013

Aims: Timely administration of antibiotic before incision ensures effective concentration in blood and tissues. Compliance with established guidelines is problematic due to logistics. Aim of this study was to improve timing of antibiotic prophylaxis (AP) with appropriate intervention in existing practices. Methods: Cross sectional study was conducted from May-June 2011 with target of enrolling at least 100 elective major cases (excluding obstetrics) who received AP before surgery. Anesthetists took responsibility of AP administration (Cefazoline 1 g as per our protocol unless indicated otherwise) instead of floor nurse as our earlier practice. Institutional ethical committee approved the study. Data collected in a pre-designed proforma was analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Results: Out of 120 patients, 64% were female. Average age was 43 years (4 to 87). General surgery cases were 51%, urosurgery 20%, gynecology and orthopaedic each 13% and others 6%. One hundred nineteen (99%) received AP before incision, 58(48%) within 60 to 30 minutes before incision and 1 (1%) after the incision. Conclusions: Anesthetist taking charge of the team for AP administration is a feasible option to improve compliance. Nepal Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology / Vol 7 / No. 1 / Issue 13 / Jan- June, 2012 / 15-18 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v7i1.8827
Intrauterine Gauze Packing in Primary Post Partum Hemorrhage following Caesarean section: A Clinical study
Authors: Yong Shao , Pradhan M
Published: October 2013

Aims: To study the effectiveness of uterine gauze packing to manage and prevent primary postpartum haemorrhage during cesarean delivery. Methods: This was a prospective study that was conducted in the department of obstetrics and gynecology, first affiliated hospital of Chongqing Medical University from Jan to May 2011. Patients included in the study were those with intractable postpartum hemorrhage not responding to medical treatment and for prevention of hemorrhage that could develop during cesarean section. Exclusion criteria included cases of ruptured uterus and vaginal deliveries.Packing was done using 2 m long and 10 cm wide sterilized gauze from the fundus through the cesarean incision with its end passing through cervix into the vagina and left for 24-48 hours or removed earlier in cases of failure to control hemorrhage. Results: Intrauterine gauze packing during cesarean section to arrest primary postpartum hamorrhage is a successful non-invasive technique. Intractable primary postpartum hamorrhage encountered in 42 (30.9%) cases had PPH after cesarean section. Placenta previa found in 48 (35.3%) cases unresponsive to uterotonics drugs was the commonest cause of uterine gauze packing. Intrauterine gauze packing was successful in 130 (95.6%) cases. Conclusions: Uterine packing is a cost effective, quick and safe procedure to manage and prevent primary PPH during cesarean delivery. Uterine packing is of benefit in achieving hemostasis particularly in cases of post partum hemorrhage due to low-lying placenta previa/accreta associated with lower segment bleeding conserving the uterus in women with cesarean delivery. Nepal Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology / Vol 7 / No. 1 / Issue 13 / Jan- June, 2012 / 33-36 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v7i1.8833