bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psoriasis uncovered – measuring burden of disease impact in a survey of Australians with psoriasis
Authors: Baker Chris S , Foley Peter A , Braue Anna
Published: February 2013

Background/Objectives

Internationally, the understanding of psoriasis has advanced in recent years to the point now where it is no longer considered a benign or cosmetic skin condition but a systemic, immune‐mediated disease associated with significant comorbidities and considerable detriment to quality of life. The aim of this study was to gain a better understanding of the physical, psychosocial and medical burden of psoriasis on Australian adults and the impact on health status.

Methods

Two large‐scale multi‐centre cross‐sectional studies of Australian adults with psoriasis were conducted during 2010 and 2011, with the participation of a national patient representative group (Psoriasis Australia). The studies were based on detailed questionnaires that were self‐completed by individuals with psoriasis.

Results

A total of 362 and 330 completed surveys were received in 2010 and 2011, respectively. A significant physical, psychosocial and medical burden was reported by the respondents. It was noteworthy that patients reported actively concealing their disease from the general public (83%), work colleagues (65%), friends (58%), employers (49%), family (40%), close friends (39%) and spouse/partner (20%). The mean five‐dimension European quality of life (EQ‐5D) score for the 2011 cohort was 0.73, representing a significant impact on their HRQoL. The presence of comorbidities, found in three‐quarters of the cohort, was associated with an even greater detriment to their HRQoL (mean score 0.64).

Conclusions

Psoriasis imposes a significant psychosocial burden on the lives of patients, including a profound impact upon their personal and professional relationships, social interactions and quality of life, to a degree comparable to other serious chronic conditions. This study highlights the importance of collaboration between primary and specialist health‐care providers in developing patient management strategies that address the spectrum of physical and psychological manifestations associated with psoriasis.
Community understanding of the preventability of major health conditions as a measure of health literacy
Authors: Moore Karen , Smith Ben J. , Reilly Karen
Published: February 2013

Objective

To examine health literacy in a rural community by measuring the understanding of the preventable nature of six major health conditions.

Design

Cross‐sectional population survey.

Setting

New housing areas of Strathfieldsaye, Victoria.

Participants

A total of 197 adults aged 18 years or older.

Main outcome measures

Perceived preventability of skin cancer, lung cancer, cervical cancer, high blood pressure, heart attack and diabetes.

Results

Skin cancer was the only condition which most people perceived as being all or mostly preventable (50.3%). Lung cancer was perceived to be all or mostly preventable by 35.5% of respondents, high blood pressure by 34.0%, cervical cancer by 27.4%, diabetes by 25.4% and heart attack by only 14.7%.

Conclusions

This study shows that there is a lack of understanding of the preventability of these health conditions. Efforts need to be directed towards improving the public's knowledge of disease prevention and to ensure that health promotion programs reach populations with the most need.
A hub and spokes approach to building community capacity for eating disorders in rural Western Australia
Authors: McCormack Julie , Watson Hunna J. , Harris Chris , Potts Julie , Forbes David
Published: February 2013

Objective

To determine whether an outreach community‐based training program on eating disorders enhances perceived capacity of rural health and education professionals to respond to and manage eating disorders.

Design

Survey conducted upon completion of outreach training.

Setting

Rural Western Australia.

Participants

Health and education professionals working in rural Western Australia.

Main outcome measures

Questionnaire responses analysed via descriptive statistics and inferential tests.

Results

There was a significant increase in perceived ability to identify, support and/or treat people with eating disorders among health and education professionals.

Conclusions

Outreach training up‐skilled rural gatekeepers and introduced systemic health system benefits of increased consultation and liaison, a fine‐tuning of referral processes, a reduction in hospital admissions and better uptake of local services by patients discharged from hospital.
The influence of social support, lifestyle and functional disability on psychological distress in rural China: Structural equation modelling
Authors: Feng Danjun , Ji Linqin , Xu Lingzhong
Published: February 2013

Objective

To describe the prevalence of psychological distress in rural China and examine the associated influence of social support, lifestyle and functional disability.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey with two‐stage stratified random sampling.

Setting

Twenty‐seven villages in Dongying City of Shandong Province.

Participants

A total of 2541 rural residents aged 15–91 years.

Main outcome measures

Psychological distress was assessed by the Kessler 10, social support was assessed by the Social Support Rating Scale and lifestyle and functional disability was assessed with self‐developed questionnaires.

Results

Of the rural residents assessed, 32.9% had K10 scores of 16 or greater. Women scored significantly higher than men did on the K10 (t (2539) = 7.23, P < 0.001). Functional disability was found to have a direct positive effect on psychological distress. Lifestyle had a direct negative effect on psychological distress and an indirect negative effect on psychological distress by reducing functional disability. Social support had an indirect negative effect on psychological distress by reducing functional disability and enhancing healthy lifestyles.

Conclusions

A third of the rural population in China reported psychological distress, with the highest prevalence observed in women. Functional disability had a significant direct effect, social support had significant indirect effects and lifestyle had both significant direct and indirect effects on psychological distress.
Pregnancy rates and pregnancy loss in Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Assefa Nega , Berhane Yemane , Worku Alemayehu
Published: February 2013

Objective

To determine pregnancy, pregnancy loss and fertility rates in a rural community of Ethiopia.

Design

A prospective population‐based pregnancy surveillance.

Setting

Kersa Demographic Surveillance and Health Research Center, a demographic surveillance site in Eastern Ethiopia.

Population

For pregnancy rates, the study included 7738 women of reproductive age permanently residing in the field research site. For pregnancy loss, 2072 pregnant women were included.

Method

Pregnancy screening was done every third month from 1 December 2009 to 30 November 2010 using a questionnaire and a urine pregnancy test. Descriptive analysis was done to calculate the pregnancy rate and pregnancy loss.

Outcome measures

Pregnancy rate and pregnancy loss.

Result

The pregnancy rate was 227/year/1000 women of reproductive age. During the study period, 1438 pregnancies ended, with 1295 live births and 143 pregnancies that did not yield a live birth (116 due to bleeding and 27 stillbirths). The incidence of pregnancy loss was 220/year/1000 pregnancies. Based on the one‐year data, the total fertility rate was found to be 5.52. The overall pregnancy loss and stillbirth ratio were 11 and 2.1/100 live births, respectively.

Conclusions

The study identified a high fertility rate that is probably accentuated by a high proportion of pregnancy loss in the study population. Improving access to family planning service to limit the number of pregnancies and access to antenatal care (to identify higher risk women) is essential.
Associations of chronic hepatitis C with metabolic and cardiac outcomes
Authors: Younossi Z. M. , Stepanova M. , Nader F. , Younossi Z. , Elsheikh E.
Published: February 2013

Background

Chronic hepatitis C virus (CH‐C) infection is associated with metabolic conditions such as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (DM) and may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Aim

To assess the association of CH‐C with risk factors for cardiovascular diseases using US population data.

Methods

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) collected between 1999 and 2010 were used.

Results

Of 19 741 participants considered eligible for the study, 173 individuals (0.88%) had detectable HCV RNA and were considered to have CH‐C. Compared with controls, CH‐C patients were predominantly African American (23.5% vs. 10.5%, P < 0.0001), men (66.6% vs. 46.1%, P = 0.0001), more likely to be between 45 and 55 years of age (41.9% vs. 20.4%, P = 0.0001), had higher rate of insulin resistance (44.1% vs. 31.1%, P = 0.0301), hypertension (40.1% vs. 28.9%, P = 0.0201), and history of smoking (76.2% vs. 29.9%, P < 0.0001). In multivariate analysis, in addition to known risk factors for insulin resistance, CH‐C was independently associated with the presence of insulin resistance [OR (95% CI) = 2.06 (1.19–3.57)], DM [OR = 2.31 (1.18–4.54)] and hypertension [OR = 2.06 (1.30–3.24)]. Independent predictors of cardiovascular diseases included older age, presence of obesity and smoking. CH‐C was independently associated with congestive heart failure subtype of cardiovascular diseases but not ischaemic heart disease and stroke.

Conclusion

Chronic hepatitis C virus infection is independently associated with presence of metabolic conditions (insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension) and congestive heart failure.
Reading and listening comprehension and their relation to inattention and hyperactivity
Authors: Cain Kate , Bignell Simon
Published: February 2013

Background

Children with diagnoses of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) frequently have reading problems. To date, it is not clear whether poor reading is associated with both inattention and hyperactivity and also whether poor reading comprehension is the result of poor word reading skills or more general language comprehension weaknesses.

Aims

We report two studies to examine how reading and listening comprehension skills are related to inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity.

Samples

Separate groups of 7‐ to 11‐year‐olds participated in each study.

Methods

In both studies, we used teacher ratings of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity to identify three groups at risk of ADHD: poor attention, high hyperactivity, poor attention and high hyperactivity, and also same‐age controls. In Study 1, we explored how inattention and hyperactivity predicted reading after controlling for non‐verbal IQ and vocabulary. In Study 2, we compared listening and reading comprehension in these groups.

Results

Poor attention was related to poor reading comprehension, although the relation was partially mediated by word reading skill (Study 1). Groups with high hyperactivity had weak listening comprehension relative to reading comprehension (Study 2).

Conclusions

These results indicate that the reading comprehension problems of children with attention difficulties are related to poor word reading and that listening comprehension is particularly vulnerable in children at risk of ADHD.
Phase I and II metabolism and MRP2‐mediated export of bosentan in a MDCKII‐OATP1B1‐CYP3A4‐UGT1A1‐MRP2 quadruple‐transfected cell line
Authors: Fahrmayr C , König J , Auge D , Mieth M , Münch K , Segrestaa J , Pfeifer T , Treiber A , Fromm MF
Published: February 2013

Background and Purpose

Hepatic uptake (e.g. by OATP1B1), phase I and II metabolism (e.g. by CYP3A4, UGT1A1) and subsequent biliary excretion (e.g. by MRP2) are key determinants for the pharmacokinetics of numerous drugs. However, stably transfected cell models for the simultaneous investigation of transport and phase I and II metabolism of drugs are lacking.

Experimental Approach

A newly established quadruple‐transfected MDCKII‐OATP1B1‐CYP3A4‐UGT1A1‐MRP2 cell line was used to investigate metabolism and transcellular transport of the endothelin receptor antagonist bosentan.

Key Results

Intracellular accumulation of bosentan equivalents (i.e. parent compound and metabolites) was significantly lower in all cell lines expressing MRP2 compared to cell lines lacking this transporter (P < 0.001). Accordingly, considerably higher amounts of bosentan equivalents were detectable in the apical compartments of cell lines with MRP2 expression (P < 0.001). HPLC and LC‐MS measurements revealed that mainly unchanged bosentan accumulated in intracellular and apical compartments. Furthermore, the phase I metabolites Ro 48–5033 and Ro 47–8634 were detected intracellularly in cell lines expressing CYP3A4. Additionally, a direct glucuronide of bosentan could be identified intracellularly in cell lines expressing UGT1A1 and in the apical compartments of cell lines expressing UGT1A1 and MRP2.

Conclusions and Implications

These in vitro data indicate that bosentan is a substrate of UGT1A1. Moreover, the efflux transporter MRP2 mediates export of bosentan and most likely also of bosentan glucuronide in the cell system. Taken together, cell lines simultaneously expressing transport proteins and metabolizing enzymes represent additional useful tools for the investigation of the interplay of transport and metabolism of drugs.
Serum concentration of immunoglobulin G-type antibodies against the whole Epstein–Barr nuclear antigen 1 and its aa35–58 or aa398–404 fragments in the sera of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and multiple sclerosis
Authors: Csuka D , Simon D , Hóbor R , Uray K , Prohászka Z , Bánlaki Z , Jani P K , Szilágyi Á , Hudecz F , Rajczy K , Beke G , Boros Major A , Tordai A , Illés Z , Berki T , Czirják L , Füst G
Published: February 2013

Several studies suggest that infection by Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) might be one of the environmental factors which facilitates the development of autoimmune disorders in genetically susceptible individuals. Recent data indicate that high anti-Epstein–Barr nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA)-1 immunoglobulin (Ig)G titre is a strong risk factor for multiple sclerosis (MS) in patients both with and without the main genetic predisposing trait, human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB1*15:01. Because no similar studies have been published in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, we determined the HLA-DRB1*15:01 carrier state and the serum titres against the whole EBNA-1 and its small fragments aa35–58 and aa398–404 in 301 SLE patients, 135 MS patients and in 345 healthy controls. The carrier state of the HLA-DRB1*15:01 allele was deduced from genotyping of a tagSNP (rs3135388) by applying a Taqman-based assay. The serum concentrations of antibodies to EBNA-1 and its aa35–58 or aa398–404 fragments were determined using a commercial assay (ETI-EBNA-G) and home-made enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, respectively. The serum concentration of anti-EBNA-1 antibodies was significantly (P < 0·001) higher both in MS and SLE patients than in controls. Similar significant differences were found both in HLA-DRB1*15:01 carriers and non-carriers. Furthermore, titres of antibodies against the aa35–58 EBNA-1 fragment were elevated both in MS and SLE patients. By contrast, the levels of aa398–404 EBNA-1 antibodies were elevated significantly only in the SLE patients. These findings indicate that high anti-EBNA-1 IgG titres are HLA-DRB1*15:01-independent risk factors not only for MS, but also for SLE, while high antibody titres against the aa398–404 fragment are characteristic for SLE.
Novel nucleotide mutation leading to a recurrent amino acid alteration in SH3BP2 in a patient with cherubism
Authors: Sangu Noriko , Shimosato Tsuyoshi , Inoda Hirosato , Shimada Shino , Shimojima Keiko , Ando Tomohiro , Yamamoto Toshiyuki
Published: February 2013

Cherubism is a rare genetic disorder characterized by progressive facial deformity caused by non‐neoplastic bone lesions in the mandible and/or the maxilla. Src homology‐3 binding protein 2 gene (SH3BP2) has been found to be the responsible gene, with alterations in six amino acids noted in patients with this condition. Recently, mutations in this domain have been found to cause stabilization of SH3BP2 by uncoupling with tankyrase. In this study, we identified a new 2‐bp mutation that led to a recurrent amino acid change in a sporadic case of cherubism. Our findings indicate that it is important to understand the pattern of progress in typical cherubism.
Macular lymphocytic arteritis: first clinical presentation with ulcers
Authors: Llamas‐Velasco M. , García‐Martín P. , Sánchez‐Pérez J. , Sotomayor E. , Fraga J. , García‐Diez A.
Published: February 2013

Macular lymphocytic arteritis describes a recently reported entity, clinically characterized by asymptomatic hyperpigmented macules on the lower limbs, without association of systemic diseases. Histopathologically it is characterized by a lymphocytic arteritis with a hyalinized fibrin ring. We report a new case presenting with ulceration, a finding not previously described. A 25‐year‐old Hispanic woman was evaluated for a 1‐year history of a gradually progressive, asymptomatic eruption that begins at level of both knees and progressively affects both legs and feet. She also referred recently appeared ulcers on inner right ankle without previous traumatism. Physical examination revealed multiple fairly well‐defined light brown and faint pink patches with petechiae on as well as retiform crusts and livedoid lesions on inner right ankle. Both types of lesions were biopsied showing lymphocytic arteritis with fibrinoid necrosis and thrombus. There were no relevant laboratory alterations. The clinical peculiarity of our case is the clinical image of the lesions mimicking a pigmented purpuric dermatosis and the presence of a non‐traumatic ulcer which could be explained because chronic lymphocytic damage may cause ischemic damage. Ulceration in our case supports consideration of macular arteritis as a latent form of cutaneous polyarteritis nodosa.
Effect of glacial acetic acid pre‐treatment of cervical liquid‐based cytology specimens on the molecular detection of human papillomavirus
Authors: Moore C. , Cuschieri K. , McQueen F. , Duvall E. , Graham C. , Cubie H. A.
Published: February 2013

Objective

Cytology laboratories routinely treat cervical liquid‐based cytology (LBC) specimens that are heavily contaminated with blood with glacial acetic acid (GAA) in order to lyse red blood cells and facilitate assessment. However, the impact on downstream human papillomavirus (HPV) detection is not well understood. This study examines the effect of GAA pre‐treatment of ThinPrep® Preservcyt® specimens on the molecular detection of HPV.

Methods

A panel of 150 routinely collected cervical LBC specimens was tested with two commercial HPV tests, the Abbott RealTime High Risk HPV test (rtHPV) and the Qiagen Hybrid Capture 2 High Risk HPV DNA test (HC2), as aliquots before and after GAA treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using McNemars test and Bland and Altman plots.

Results

Agreement between the results of the rtHPV test on GAA‐untreated and GAA‐treated specimens was 95.7%, with no evidence of a significant difference in the distribution of the discrepant results (P = 0.414). HC2 test agreement on GAA‐untreated and GAA‐treated specimens was 91% at a cut‐off of 1 relative light unit index (RLUI) and 92% at a cut‐off of 2 RLUI. There was no evidence of a difference in the distribution of discordant results at a cut‐off of 1 (P = 0.405) and 2 RLUI (P = 0.564).

Conclusions

GAA pre‐treatment of cervical ThinPrep Preservcyt LBC specimens had little effect on the two commercial HPV tests used in this study. The impact of GAA treatment on HPV testing should, however, be validated for all HPV tests and all LBC collection media used in each particular diagnostic setting.
Are environmental transitions more prone to biological invasions?
Authors: van Rensburg Berndt J. , Hugo Sanet , Levin Noam , Kark Salit
Published: February 2013

Aim

To examine whether at a subcontinental‐scale ecotonal areas of transition between vegetation communities are at higher risk of plant invasion.

Location

South Africa and Lesotho.

Methods

Using plant data on native and established alien species in South Africa, we examined the relationship between plant richness (native and alien) in each grid cell (quarter‐degree resolution) in the study area and the distance of the grid cell to the nearest ecotone between vegetation communities. We used a residual analysis to estimate each grid cell's relative invasibility (i.e. susceptibility to invasion) relative to its ecotone distance. We further explored the relative importance of ecotones in relation to large‐scale environmental variation, and the importance of ecotonal spatial heterogeneity, in structuring alien species richness patterns.

Results

Both alien and native richness patterns become higher with declining distance to ecotones, suggesting that transitional environments are more susceptible to invasion than areas located farther away; however, levels of invasibility vary across South Africa. The negative relationship between ecotone distance and alien species richness remained negative and significant for the whole of South Africa, grassland and Nama‐Karoo, after controlling for environmental variables. Several sources of environmental heterogeneity, which were shown here to be associated with ecotones, were also found to be important determinants of alien species richness.

Main conclusions

While most of the current conservation efforts at the regional and global scales are currently directed to distinct ecosystems, our results suggest that much more effort should be directed to the transitions between them, which are small in size and have high native richness, but are also under greater threat from invasive alien species. Understanding how alien species richness and invasibility change across transitions and sharp gradients, where environmental heterogeneity is high, is important for ongoing conservation planning in a biogeographical context.
Comparison of independent and combined metabolic effects of chronic treatment with (pGlu‐Gln)‐CCK‐8 and long‐acting GLP‐1 and GIP mimetics in high fat‐fed mice
Authors: Irwin N. , Hunter K. , Montgomery I. A. , Flatt P. R.
Published: February 2013

Aim

The incretin hormones, glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and cholecystokinin (CCK) are gastrointestinal peptides with important physiological effects. However, rapid enzymatic degradation results in short‐lived biological actions.

Methods

This study has examined metabolic actions of exendin‐4, GIP[mPEG] and a novel CCK‐8 analogue, (pGlu‐Gln)‐CCK‐8 as enzymatically stable forms of GLP‐1, GIP and CCK, respectively.

Results

All peptides significantly (p < 0.01–p < 0.001) stimulated insulin secretion from BRIN BD11 cells, and acute in vivo experiments confirmed prominent antihyperglycaemic and insulinotropic responses to GLP‐1 or GIP receptor activation in normal mice. Twice daily injection of (pGlu‐Gln)‐CCK‐8 alone and in combination with exendin‐4 or GIP[mPEG] in high fat‐fed mice significantly decreased accumulated food intake (p < 0.05–p < 0.01), body weight gain (p < 0.05–p < 0.01) and improved (p < 0.05) insulin sensitivity in high fat‐fed mice. However, there was no evidence for superior effects compared to (pGlu‐Gln)‐CCK‐8 alone. Combined treatment of (pGlu‐Gln)‐CCK‐8 and exendin‐4 resulted in significantly (p < 0.05) lowered circulating glucose levels and improved (p < 0.05) intraperitoneal glucose tolerance. These effects were superior to either treatment regime alone but not associated with altered insulin concentrations. A single injection of (pGlu‐Gln)‐CCK‐8, or combined with exendin‐4, significantly (p < 0.05) lowered blood glucose levels 24 h post injection in untreated high fat‐fed mice.

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential of (pGlu‐Gln)‐CCK‐8 alone and in combination with incretin hormones for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Lotteries vs. All‐Pay Auctions in Fair and Biased Contests
Authors: Epstein Gil S. , Mealem Yosef , Nitzan Shmuel
Published: February 2013

The form of contests for a single fixed prize can be determined by a designer who maximizes the contestants' efforts. This article establishes that, under common knowledge of the two asymmetric contestants' prize valuations, a fair Tullock‐type endogenously determined lottery is always superior to an all‐pay‐auction; it yields larger expected efforts (revenues) for the contest designer. If the contest can be unfair (structural discrimination is allowed), then the designer's payoff under the optimal lottery is equal to his expected payoff under the optimal all‐pay auction.
Overwintering strategy of endoparasitoids in Chilo suppressalis: a perspective from the cold hardiness of a host
Authors: Quan Wei‐Li , Zheng Xia‐Lin , Li Xin‐Xin , Zhou Xing‐Miao , Ma Wei‐Hua , Wang Xiao‐Ping
Published: February 2013

Although parasitoids ultimately kill their host, koinobiont parasitoids must protect not only themselves but also their hosts against extreme environments. In this study, the parasitism rate of Chilo suppressalis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) was investigated, and the average body weights, supercooling points, and concentrations of glycerol (acting as a cryoprotectant) in the hemolymph were compared between parasitized and non‐parasitized larvae. Five species of koinobiont endoparasitoids parasitized the overwintering C. suppressalis larvae and the total parasitism rate was 47.6% (n = 1 537). Average body weight of parasitized larvae was significantly lower than that of non‐parasitized larvae, and the parasitism rate of the lighter group (20–30 mg) was highest. The supercooling point of parasitized C. suppressalis larvae (−15.7 ± 0.3 °C) was significantly lower than that of the non‐parasitized larvae (−14.3 ± 0.2 °C). In addition, supercooling points were not correlated with body weights between parasitized and non‐parasitized larvae, indicating that cold hardiness of parasitized larvae was enhanced by endoparasitoids. Furthermore, the concentration of glycerol in the hemolymph was significantly higher in parasitized larvae (205.0 ± 7.1 μmol ml−1) than in non‐parasitized larvae (169.8 ± 14.4 μmol ml−1), which suggests that the mechanism that decreases the supercooling point of parasitized larvae was associated with glycerol. All these results indicated that the cold hardiness of parasitized C. suppressalis larvae was enhanced by their endoparasitoids, which benefitted overwintering endoparasitoids.
Effect of glutamate receptor antagonists on migrating neural progenitor cells
Authors: Jansson Linda C. , Louhivuori Lauri , Wigren Henna‐Kaisa , Nordström Tommy , Louhivuori Verna , Castrén Maija L. , Åkerman Karl E.
Published: February 2013

Neurotransmitters such as glutamate are potential regulators of neurogenesis. Interference with defined glutamate receptor subtypes affects proliferation, migration and differentiation of neural progenitor cells. The cellular targets for the actions of different glutamate receptor ligands are less well known. In this study we have combined calcium imaging, measurement of membrane potential, time‐lapse imaging and immunocytochemistry to obtain a spatial overview of migrating mouse embryonic neural progenitor cell‐derived cells responding to glutamate receptor agonists and antagonists. Responses via metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 correlated with radial glial cells and dominated in the inner migration zones close to the neurosphere. Block of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 resulted in shorter radial glial processes, a transient increase in neuron‐like cells emerging from the neurosphere and increased motility of neuron‐like cells. α‐Amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA)/kainate receptors are present on the majority of migrating neuronal cells, which with time accumulate at the outer edge of the migration zone. Blocking these receptors leads to an enhanced extension of radial glial processes and a reduced motility of neuron‐like cells. Our results indicate that functional glutamate receptors have profound effects on the motility of neural progenitor cells. The main target for metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 appears to be radial glial cells while AMPA/kainate receptors are mainly expressed in newborn neuronal cells and regulate the migratory progress of these cells. The results suggest that both metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 and AMPA/kainate receptors are of importance for the guidance of migrating embryonic progenitor cells.
Reproductive success of the Argentine anchovy, Engraulis anchoita, in relation to environmental variability at a mid‐shelf front (Southwestern Atlantic Ocean)
Authors: Marrari Marina , Signorini Sergio R. , McClain Charles R. , Pájaro Marcelo , Martos Patricia , Viñas María Delia , Hansen Jorge , Dimauro Roxana , Cepeda Georgina , Buratti Claudio
Published: February 2013

The mid‐shelf front (MSF) of the Buenos Aires province continental shelf in the Southwestern Atlantic Ocean plays a central role in the pelagic ecosystem of the region acting as the main spring reproductive area for the northern population of the Argentine anchovy Engraulis anchoita and supporting high concentrations of chlorophyll as well as zooplankton, the main food of anchovy. To investigate the influence of environmental variability on the reproductive success of E. anchoita, we analyzed a 13‐yr time series (1997–2009) of environmental data at MSF including chlorophyll dynamics, as well as zooplankton composition and abundance, ichthyoplankton distributions, and recruitment of E. anchoita. Spring chlorophyll concentrations showed high interannual variability and were mainly influenced by changes in water temperature and vertical stratification, which in turn control nutrient supply to the surface. Chlorophyll dynamics (magnitude, timing, and duration of the spring bloom) explained most of the variability observed in E. anchoita recruitment, most likely via fluctuations in the availability of adequate food for the larvae. Our results suggest that satellite ocean color products can be valuable tools for understanding variability in ecosystem dynamics and its effects on the recruitment of fish.
3. INDIGENOUS EMPIRES AND NATIVE NATIONS: BEYOND HISTORY AND ETHNOHISTORY IN PEKKA HÄMÄLÄINEN'S THE COMANCHE EMPIRE
Authors: JACOBY KARL
Published: February 2013

How should historians write Native history? To what extent should one privilege Native terms, sources, chronologies, and epistemologies? And to what extent should historians align Native history with concepts developed for other peoples and places? These crucial questions about emic (insider) and etic (outsider) approaches to the past are cast into sharp relief in Pekka Hämäläinen's award‐winning The Comanche Empire. This essay charts the perils and possibilities of each position. It then explores possible ways to move beyond the emic/etic division that has dominated many of the recent debates about Native history through a rereading of an episode in which Comanche history collides with US and Mexican history.
5. IMPERIAL SPACES IN PEKKA HÄMÄLÄINEN'S THE COMANCHE EMPIRE
Authors: ST. JOHN RACHEL
Published: February 2013

This review focuses on Pekka Hämäläinen's characterization and analysis of the Comanche empire as a spatial category in The Comanche Empire and discusses how this work relates to broader discussions about space and power in borderlands and imperial histories. Although empires have long been central actors in borderlands histories, “empire” has not necessarily been a category of spatial organization and analysis and certainly not one used to describe spaces controlled by Native peoples. By contrast, while Hämäläinen emphasizes the imperial characteristics of the economic, political, and cultural dimensions of Comanche history (as other contributors to this forum discuss), he also uses “empire” to characterize Comanche dominance spatially. Hämäläinen helps us to rethink the spatial dynamics that both shaped and were produced by the encounters between Comanches and Spaniards, French, Mexicans, Americans, and other Native peoples in the Great Plains during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. By analyzing how Comanches came to control vast stretches of the southern plains, The Comanche Empire challenges our assumptions about how Native polities and imperial powers (and groups like the Comanches that Hämäläinen argues were both) thought about territorial claims and how they employed more nuanced spatial strategies to assert their authority, extend their cultural influence, and control trade and resources.
Fluorescent prey traps in carnivorous plants
Authors: Kurup R. , Johnson A. J. , Sankar S. , Hussain A. A. , Kumar C. Sathish , Sabulal B.
Published: February 2013

Carnivorous plants acquire most of their nutrients by capturing ants, insects and other arthropods through their leaf‐evolved biological traps. So far, the best‐known attractants in carnivorous prey traps are nectar, colour and olfactory cues. Here, fresh prey traps of 14 Nepenthes, five Sarracenia, five Drosera, two Pinguicula species/hybrids, Dionaea muscipula and Utricularia stellaris were scanned at UV 366 nm. Fluorescence emissions of major isolates of fresh Nepenthes khasiana pitcher peristomes were recorded at an excitation wavelength of 366 nm. N. khasiana field pitcher peristomes were masked by its slippery zone extract, and prey capture rates were compared with control pitchers. We found the existence of distinct blue fluorescence emissions at the capture spots of Nepenthes, Sarracenia and Dionaea prey traps at UV 366 nm. These alluring blue emissions gradually developed with the growth of the prey traps and diminished towards their death. On excitation at 366 nm, N. khasiana peristome 3:1 CHCl3–MeOH extract and its two major blue bands showed strong fluorescence emissions at 430–480 nm. Masking of blue emissions on peristomes drastically reduced prey capture in N. khasiana pitchers. We propose these molecular emissions as a critical factor attracting arthropods and other visitors to these carnivorous traps. Drosera, Pinguicula and Utricularia prey traps showed only red chlorophyll emissions at 366 nm.
Three‐dimensional power Doppler and endometrial volume as predictors of malignancy in patients with postmenopausal bleeding
Authors: Makled Ahmed K. , Elmekkawi Sherif F. , El‐Refaie Tamer A. , El‐Sherbiny Mohammed A.
Published: February 2013

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of 3D power Doppler angiography (3D‐PDA) for distinguishing between benign endometrial lesions and endometrial carcinoma in patients with postmenopausal bleeding (PMB).

Material and Methods

One‐hundred and fifty women with PMB and an endometrial thickness (ET) of ≥4 mm on 2D sonography were assessed by 3D‐PDA before endometrial sampling to obtain definitive histological diagnosis of endometrial pathology. Endometrial volume (EV), vascularity index (VI), flow index (FI) and vascularity‐flow index (VFI) were calculated by computer‐aided analysis.

Results

Of the 150 women, 114 (76%) had benign endometrial lesions and 36 (24%) had endometrial carcinoma. Patients with endometrial carcinoma had significantly thicker endometrium (15.8 ± 7.7 vs 9.9 ± 5.9 mm; P < 0.001), larger EV (9.1 ± 4.7 vs 2.6 ± 3.5 mL, P < 0.001) and higher 3D‐PDA indices (P < 0.001) than patients with benign endometrial lesions. The best variable for distinguishing between benign and malignant endometrium was VI, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.86. In contrast, the ET had an AUC of only 0.62. The best‐fit logistic regression model for the diagnosis malignancy contained only VI as an independent factor (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

3D‐PDA measurements may be useful for distinguishing between benign endometrial lesions and endometrial carcinoma in patients with postmenopausal bleeding.
The Effect of Data Inaccuracy on Tests of Space‐Time Interaction
Authors: Malizia Nicholas
Published: February 2013

Space‐time event data are often subject to deficiencies in: (1) locational accuracy; (2), temporal accuracy; and (3) completeness. This work explores how these failings in the quality of input data may affect the results of global space‐time interaction tests. While previous work has partially investigated the impact of locational inaccuracy on the results of these tests, more work remains. The impacts of temporal inaccuracy and incomplete data reporting on the results of these tests remain completely unexplored. This study examines the influence of these problems individually and collectively, using a series of simulations. Findings demonstrate that even in cases of slight inaccuracy or underreporting, the consequences on results are potentially severe. Although the study is couched in terms of data inaccuracy, its relevance to situations where inaccuracy is replaced with uncertainty is self‐evident.
An eye for a tooth
Authors: Kiderman Alexander , Tair Jawad A. A.
Published: February 2013

Objective:  To propose a possible link between dental extraction and intra‐ocular complications.

Background:  Several publications in medical literature describe intra‐ocular complications after different dental procedures.

Results:  Retinal detachment and vitreous hemorrhage following dental extraction with an appropriate anesthesia.

Conclusion:  Systemic complications following dental treatments should not be neglected and proper medical treatment must be provided as soon as possible.
Development of the NIH PROMIS® Sexual Function and Satisfaction Measures in Patients with Cancer
Authors: Flynn Kathryn E. , Lin Li , Cyranowski Jill M. , Reeve Bryce B. , Reese Jennifer Barsky , Jeffery Diana D. , Smith Ashley Wilder , Porter Laura S. , Dombeck Carrie B. , Bruner Deborah Watkins , Keefe Francis J. , Weinfurt Kevin P.
Published: February 2013

Introduction

We describe the development and validation of the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System® Sexual Function and Satisfaction (PROMIS® SexFS; National Institutes of Health) measures, version 1.0, for cancer populations.

Aim

To develop a customizable self-report measure of sexual function and satisfaction as part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health PROMIS Network.

Methods

Our multidisciplinary working group followed a comprehensive protocol for developing psychometrically robust patient-reported outcome measures including qualitative (scale development) and quantitative (psychometric evaluation) development. We performed an extensive literature review, conducted 16 focus groups with cancer patients and multiple discussions with clinicians, and evaluated candidate items in cognitive testing with patients. We administered items to 819 cancer patients. Items were calibrated using item-response theory and evaluated for reliability and validity.

Main Outcome Measures

The PROMIS SexFS measures, version 1.0, include 81 items in 11 domains: Interest in Sexual Activity, Lubrication, Vaginal Discomfort, Erectile Function, Global Satisfaction with Sex Life, Orgasm, Anal Discomfort, Therapeutic Aids, Sexual Activities, Interfering Factors, and Screener Questions.

Results

In addition to content validity (patients indicate that items cover important aspects of their experiences) and face validity (patients indicate that items measure sexual function and satisfaction), the measure shows evidence for discriminant validity (domains discriminate between groups expected to be different) and convergent validity (strong correlations between scores on PROMIS and scores on conceptually similar older measures of sexual function), as well as favorable test–retest reliability among people not expected to change (interclass correlations from two administrations of the instrument, 1 month apart).

Conclusions

The PROMIS SexFS offers researchers a reliable and valid set of tools to measure self-reported sexual function and satisfaction among diverse men and women. The measures are customizable; researchers can select the relevant domains and items comprising those domains for their study.
Efficacy of grapefruit, tangerine, lime, and lemon oils as solvents for softening gutta‐percha in root canal retreatment procedures
Authors: Jantarat Jeeraphat , Malhotra Warunee , Sutimuntanakul Supachai
Published: February 2013

Aim

In the present study, we evaluate the efficiency of four kinds of oil as solvents for softening gutta‐percha in root canal retreatment procedures. The performance of grapefruit, tangerine, lime, and lemon oils specifically were evaluated and compared to chloroform.

Methods

Eighty‐four cylinder‐shaped glass tubes (5 × 30 mm) were filled with gutta‐percha. A total of 0.1 mL solvent was added to the upper part of the glass tubes. After 5 min, the spreader attached to the universal testing machine was moved downward through gutta‐percha with header speed of 5 mm/min into a depth of 5 mm. An initial depth of spreader penetration without force produced was recorded in millimeters. The load used to penetrate the spreader into the 5‐mm depth was recorded in Newton.

Results

The results of the surface‐dissolving depth and maximum force used to penetrate the spreader to 5 mm revealed that chloroform was significantly the best solvent in softening gutta‐percha (P < 0.05), followed by grapefruit oil and tangerine oil, while the least effective solvents were lime oil and lemon oil.

Conclusions

Under the conditions of the present study, grapefruit oil and tangerine oil performed best as gutta‐perch solvents among four natural oils.
Cloning, expression of Vibrio alginolyticus outer membrane protein‐OmpU gene and its potential application as vaccine in crimson snapper, Lutjanus erythropterus Bloch
Authors: Cai S H , Lu Y S , Wu Z H , Jian J C
Published: February 2013

The outer membrane proteins of the marine aquatic animal pathogen, Vibrio alginolyticus, play an important role in the virulence of the bacterium and are potential candidates for vaccine development. In this study, the gene encoding an outer membrane protein‐OmpU was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. Polyclonal antibodies were raised in rabbits against the purified recombinant OmpU, and the reaction of the antibody was confirmed by Western blotting using the isolated OmpU and the recombinant OmpU of V. alginolyticus. To analyze the immunogenicity of the recombinant OmpU, crimson snapper, Lutjanus erythropterus Bloch, were immunized by intraperitoneal injection, and antibody response was assessed by the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results demonstrated that the recombinant OmpU produced an observable antibody response in all sera of the vaccinated fish. The vaccinated fish were challenged by virulent V. alginolyticus and observed to have high resistance to infection. These results indicate that the recombinant OmpU is an effective vaccine candidate against V. alginolyticus in L. erythropterus.
Identification of Expressed Resistance Gene Analogs from Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) Expressed Sequence Tags
Authors: Liu Zhanji , Feng Suping , Pandey Manish K. , Chen Xiaoping , Culbreath Albert K. , Varshney Rajeev K. , Guo Baozhu
Published: February 2013

Low genetic diversity makes peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) very vulnerable to plant pathogens, causing severe yield loss and reduced seed quality. Several hundred partial genomic DNA sequences as nucleotide‐binding‐site leucine‐rich repeat (NBS‐LRR) resistance genes (R) have been identified, but a small portion with expressed transcripts has been found. We aimed to identify resistance gene analogs (RGAs) from peanut expressed sequence tags (ESTs) and to develop polymorphic markers. The protein sequences of 54 known R genes were used to identify homologs from peanut ESTs from public databases. A total of 1,053 ESTs corresponding to six different classes of known R genes were recovered, and assembled 156 contigs and 229 singletons as peanut‐expressed RGAs. There were 69 that encoded for NBS‐LRR proteins, 191 that encoded for protein kinases, 82 that encoded for LRR‐PK/transmembrane proteins, 28 that encoded for Toxin reductases, 11 that encoded for LRR‐domain containing proteins and four that encoded for TM‐domain containing proteins. Twenty‐eight simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were identified from 25 peanut expressed RGAs. One SSR polymorphic marker (RGA121) was identified. Two polymerase chain reaction‐based markers (Ahsw‐1 and Ahsw‐2) developed from RGA013 were homologous to the Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV) resistance gene. All three markers were mapped on the same linkage group AhIV. These expressed RGAs are the source for RGA‐tagged marker development and identification of peanut resistance genes.
Prosthetic Rehabilitation and Management of an MTA‐Treated Maxillary Central Incisor with Root Perforation and Severe Internal Resorption
Authors: Abuabara Allan , Costa Rogério G. , Morais Eduardo C. , Furuse Adilson Y. , Gonzaga Carla C. , Filho Flares Baratto
Published: February 2013

Root canal perforation and root resorption are challenging clinical conditions to correctly diagnose and treat, especially when they occur in anterior teeth. This clinical report describes the computed tomography findings, endodontic treatment, prosthetic rehabilitation, and clinical outcome of an iatrogenic root perforation and internal resorption in a maxillary central incisor. The case management consisted of endodontic retreatment, periodontal surgery, and prosthetic rehabilitation. Gray mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) was used to fill the resorption space and seal the perforation. The prosthetic treatment was performed with glass fiber‐reinforced dowels and all‐ceramic crowns. No signs or symptoms, including discomfort, pain, or esthetic defects were observed in 30 months of follow‐up.
Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer: The Medical and Psychosocial Late Effects of Cancer Treatment and the Impact on Sexual and Reproductive Health
Authors: Jacobs Linda A. , Pucci Donna A.
Published: February 2013

Introduction

There are over 13 million cancer survivors in the United States, which constitutes 3–4% of the U.S. population. According to the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results program (SEER) data the 5-year overall survival rate for children diagnosed with cancer between ages 0–19 is 83.1%, and 2/3 of childhood cancer survivors will experience at least one late effect of treatment.

Aim

To provide a brief overview of the medical and psychosocial effects of cancer treatments in survivors of childhood cancer with a focus on sexual and reproductive health issues in this population.

Methods

The development of a manuscript from a presentation at the Annual Society of Sexual Medicine meeting. An overview of long-term and late effects of treatment experienced by young adult cancer survivors was presented.

Main Outcome Measure

This manuscript is based on a presentation that reviewed the medical and psychosocial literature, consensus statements of professional groups, and clinical observations.

Results

Cancer and cancer treatments have both direct and indirect effects of physiological, psychological, and interpersonal factors that can negatively impact the health and well-being of cancer survivors including sexual and reproductive function and satisfaction.

Conclusions

Cancer, its management, and the resulting late effects must be explored and understood by providers caring for childhood cancer survivors so that educational, psychological, pharmacologic, as well as preventive interventions can be implemented with this population.