bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Localized interleukin‐12 delivery for immunotherapy of solid tumours
Authors: Wei Louis Z. , Xu Yixin , E. Nelles Megan , Furlonger Caren , Wang James C.M. , Di Grappa Marco A. , Khokha Rama , Medin Jeffrey A. , Paige Christopher J.
Published: November 2013

Interleukin (IL)‐12 is the key cytokine in the initiation of a Th1 response and has shown promise as an anti‐cancer agent; however, clinical trials involving IL‐12 have been unsuccessful due to toxic side‐effects. To address this issue, lentiviral vectors were used to transduce tumour cell lines that were injected as an autologous tumour cell vaccine. The focus of the current study was to test the efficacy of this approach in a solid tumour model. SCCVII cells that were transduced to produce IL‐12 at different concentrations were then isolated. Subcutaneous injection of parental SCCVII cells results in tumour development, while a mixture of IL‐12‐producing and non‐producing cells results in tumour clearance. Interestingly, when comparing mice injected a mixture of SCCVII and either high IL‐12‐producing tumour cells or low IL‐12‐producing tumour cells, we observed that mixtures containing small amounts of high producing cells lead to tumour clearance, whereas mixtures containing large amounts of low producing cells fail to elicit protection, despite the production of equal amounts of total IL‐12 in both mixtures. Furthermore, immunizing mice with IL‐12‐producing cells leads to the establishment of both local and systemic immunity against challenge with SCCVII. Using depletion antibodies, it was shown that both CD4+ and CD8+ cells are crucial for therapy. Lastly, we have established cell clones of other solid tumour cell lines (RM‐1, LLC1 and moto1.1) that produce IL‐12. Our results show that the delivery of IL‐12 by cancer cells is an effective route for immune activation.
The time course of aggressive behaviour in juvenile matrinxã Brycon amazonicus fed with dietary L‐tryptophan supplementation
Authors: Wolkers C. P. B. , Serra M. , Szawka R. E. , Urbinati E. C.
Published: November 2013

This study evaluated the influence of dietary L‐tryptophan (TRP) supplementation on the time course of aggressive behaviour and on neuroendocrine and hormonal indicators in juvenile matrinxã Brycon amazonicus. Supplementation with TRP promoted a change in the fight pattern at the beginning of an interaction with an intruder, resulting in decreased aggressive behaviours during the first 20 min. The decrease in aggression did not persist throughout the interaction but increased at 3 and 6 h after the beginning of the fight. Monoamine levels in the hypothalamus were not influenced by TRP before or after the fight; however, the hypothalamic serotonin (5‐HT) concentration and the 5‐hydroxyindole‐3‐acetic acid (5HIAA):5‐HT ratio were significantly correlated with the reduction in aggressive behaviour at the beginning of the fight. Cortisol was not altered by TRP before the fight. After the fight cortisol increased to higher levels in B. amazonicus fed with supplementary TRP. These results indicate that TRP supplementation alters the aggressive behaviour of B. amazonicus and that this effect is limited to the beginning of the fight, suggesting a transient effect of TRP on aggressive behaviour. This is the first study reporting the effects of TRP supplementation on the time course of aggressive interaction in fishes.
Placenta‐specific miRNA (miR‐512‐3p) targets PPP3R1 encoding the calcineurin B regulatory subunit in BeWo cells
Authors: Kurashina Ryuhei , Kikuchi Kunio , Iwaki Jun , Yoshitake Hiroshi , Takeshita Toshiyuki , Takizawa Toshihiro
Published: November 2013

Aim

The microRNAs (miRNAs) derived from the chromosome 19 miRNA cluster (C19MC) are exclusively expressed in the human placenta, but the origin and functions of C19MC miRNAs are not fully understood. The purpose of this study was to elucidate which cells express C19MC miRNAs in chorionic villi and identify their miRNA targets.

Methods

A combination of laser microdissection (LMD) and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to examine the localization of five C19MC miRNAs (i.e. miR‐512‐3p, miR‐518b, miR‐520a, miR‐524 and miR‐1323) in the human placenta was performed. Furthermore, to identify miR‐512‐3p‐target genes, we analyzed gene expression profiles of the trophoblast cell line BeWo using a DNA microarray. Predicted target genes were validated by real‐time PCR, western blotting, and 3′‐untranslated region reporter assay.

Results

By LMD and subsequent PCR analysis, five C19MC miRNAs examined in this study were predominantly expressed in villous trophoblast cells; little expression, if any, was observed in villous stroma cells or fetal endothelial cells. Microarray data showed that 334 genes were downregulated in BeWo cells treated with Pre‐miR‐512‐3p (mature miR‐512‐3p mimic). We found six candidate target genes of miR‐512‐3p using DNA microarray data and target prediction software. Furthermore, we revealed that protein phosphatase 3, regulatory subunit B, alpha (PPP3R1), one of the six genes, was a miR‐512‐3p target using an in vitro experimental validation system.

Conclusion

These data suggest that miR‐512‐3p participates in human trophoblast function[s] by targeting PPP3R1, encoding a regulatory subunit of calcineurin.
Serial CT Findings of a Rapidly Calcified Epidural Hematoma in a Young Adult: A Case Report
Authors: Lee Byung Hoon , Hwang Yoon Joon , Choi Chan‐Young
Published: November 2013

We report serial computed tomography (CT) findings in a rare case of a rapidly calcified epidural hematoma. A 21‐year‐old female patient was admitted to our hospital after being involved in a motor vehicle accident. An initial cranial CT revealed a right frontal bone fracture. She complained of right frontal headache, but showed no neurological deficit or tendency for bleeding. Therefore, she was treated conservatively without surgical intervention. Follow‐up CT revealed an ossified epidural hematoma (EDH) 17 days after the head injury, and the ossification later thickened. However, a decrease in the width of the EDH was observed during the 9 months of follow‐up during which serial CT images were acquired. The EDH resolved 9 months after the initial trauma, but the calcification layer remained thickened.
Morphological and molecular characterization within 26 strains of the genus Cylindrospermum (Nostocaceae, Cyanobacteria), with descriptions of three new species
Authors: Johansen Jeffrey R. , Bohunická Markéta , Lukešová Alena , Hrčková Kristýna , Vaccarino Melissa A. , Chesarino Nicholas M.
Published: November 2013

Twenty‐six strains morphologically identified as Cylindrospermum as well as the closely related taxon Cronbergia siamensis were examined microscopically as well as phylogenetically using sequence data for the 16S rRNA gene and the 16S‐23S internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA revealed three distinct clades. The clade we designate as Cylindrospermum sensu stricto contained all five of the foundational species, C. maius, C. stagnale, C. licheniforme, C. muscicola, and C. catenatum. In addition to these taxa, three species new to science in this clade were described: C. badium, C. moravicum, and C. pellucidum. Our evidence indicated that Cronbergia is a later synonym of Cylindrospermum. The phylogenetic position of Cylindrospermum within the Nostocaceae was not clearly resolved in our analyses. Cylindrospermum is unusual among cyanobacterial genera in that the morphological diversity appears to be more evident than sequence divergence. Taxa were clearly separable using morphology, but had very high percent similarity among ribosomal sequences. Given the high diversity we noted in this study, we conclude that there is likely much more diversity remaining to be described in this genus.
The Patient–Consumer–Advocate Nexus
Authors: Gottlieb Samantha D.
Published: November 2013

The 2006 availability of Merck's human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, Gardasil, in the United States provides an opportunity to examine the pharmaceutical company's creation of patient awareness for one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and its related cancer. In spite of the ubiquity of gynecological screening, prior to the vaccine's dissemination, most U.S. women were not familiar with either the infection or its association with cancer. Merck's role in encouraging a patient advocacy community mimics existing breast cancer patient advocacy culture in the United States while also demonstrating marked popular culture differences between the two women's health concerns and their respective advocacy groups. This article draws on ethnographic fieldwork with an HPV/cervical cancer advocacy organization to demonstrate how the group and its members engaged in an activism of awareness that disavows larger political aims.
For the Sake of our Children: Hispanic Immigrant and Migrant Families’ Use of Folk Healing and Biomedicine
Authors: Andrews Tracy J. , Ybarra Vickie , Matthews L. LaVern
Published: November 2013

This article documents beliefs among Hispanic immigrant and migrant families in central Washington State about the etiology, symptomology, and appropriate treatments for illnesses experienced by their young children. Similar information was gathered from health care staff at several area biomedical facilities. We integrate data from the childhood health project and the authors’ previous research to refine the ethnomedical knowledge base and assumptions about the impact of migration histories and acculturative forces on Hispanic health belief systems and therapeutic decision‐making. The analysis is situated in the region's political economic context, dominated by agribusiness, which reveals the enmeshed structural forces that influence the children's health care. We conclude that only when cultural and structural factors are considered in concert can these approaches most effectively contribute to understanding family responses to childhood illness at local community levels as well as at broader analytic scales, and to the development of culturally relevant and effective health care.
Reliability and Validity of the Persian HIT‐6 Questionnaire in Migraine and Tension‐type Headache
Authors: Zandifar Alireza , Banihashemi Mahboobeh , Haghdoost Faraidoon , Masjedi Samaneh S. , Manouchehri Navid , Asgari Fatemeh , Najafi Mohammad R. , Ghorbani Abbas , Zandifar Samaneh , Saadatnia Mohammad , White Michelle K
Published: November 2013

Objective

Headache Impact Test (HIT‐6) measures the impact headaches in a 1‐month period. We validated the Persian translation of HIT‐6, compared the HIT‐6 psychometric analysis between migraine and tension‐type headache (TTH) patients, and evaluated the capability of HIT‐6 to differentiate between TTH, chronic migraine, and episodic migraine.

Methods

Qualified participants, including 274 patients diagnosed with migraine or TTH, were required to complete HIT‐6, SF‐36v2, and a symptoms questionnaire on their first visit. At 3 and 8 weeks from first visit, participants completed HIT‐6. Internal consistency (Cronbach's α) and test–retest reproducibility (Pearson's correlation coefficient) were used to assess reliability. Convergent validity was also assessed.

Results

Tension‐type headache, episodic, and chronic migraines included 24.5%, 61.9%, and 13.6% of the participants, respectively. Internal consistency among all patients, TTH, and migraine in the first visit were 0.74, 0.77, and 0.73, respectively. Test–retest reliability for HIT‐6 between visit 1 and 2 showed a moderate level of correlation (r = 0.50). Convergent validity and also item total correlation were acceptable. There was no significant difference in HIT‐6 total score between TTH and migraine.

Conclusion

Persian HIT‐6 is a valid and reliable questionnaire for the evaluation of headache. However, it cannot differentiate between chronic migraine, episodic migraine, and TTH in Iranian population.
Sedimentological and geochemical characteristics of a fluvial travertine: A case from the eastern Mediterranean region
Authors: Özkul Mehmet , Gökgöz Alİ , Kele Sandor , Baykara Mehmet Oruç , Shen Chuan‐Chou , Chang Yu‐Wei , Kaya Alİ , Hançer Mete , Aratman Cİhan , Akin Taylan , Örü Zeynep
Published: November 2013

A sedimentological and geochemical study was performed on the travertines in the southern part of the Uşak geothermal field, western Turkey, to assess the applicability of a fluvial tufa facies model in interpreting late Quaternary travertine deposits developed along the stream valleys that follow fault and fracture systems. Modern thermal (31 to 38°C) springs are found on the floor of the valley between 480 m and 520 m above sea‐level. The distribution and nature of travertine facies were determined from natural outcrops. Samples of the travertines and spring water were characterized using a range of geochemical and petrographic methods. Waterfall, slope and pool facies associations consist of various combinations of travertine facies and subordinate detrital facies. Waterfall and slope facies associations of the older deposits occur where the springs emerged onto a hillslope or topographic break. In contrast, the pool facies association developed in depressions or flat areas that were fed by thermal springs. The youngest generation (1·85 ka) precipitated at lower elevations than the older ones (147 to 153 ka). Stable carbon and oxygen isotope values of the Aksaz travertines range between +4·3‰ and +6·3‰ (Vienna Pee Dee Belemnite) and −12·6‰ and −7·2‰ (Vienna Pee Dee Belemnite), respectively. The high δ13C values suggest that the thermal waters were charged with isotopically heavy CO2 of deep origin. Based on palaeotemperature calculations, the temperatures of the palaeosprings are slightly higher (up to 44°C) than the present equivalents, but sometimes the temperature is lower, probably due to mixing with the stream water. Although the thermal waters occasionally are impeded by fluvial activity, travertine precipitation occurs in the protected parts of the Aksaz Stream valley. This contribution highlights the applicability of the fluvial facies model for tufa for the interpretation of travertine deposits worldwide.
International Women's Convention, Democracy, and Gender Equality
Authors: Cho Seo‐Young
Published: November 2013

Objective

This article empirically investigates the impact of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) on women's rights.

Method

By measuring commitments to CEDAW based on reservations made by states, this article tests whether the convention enhances women's economic, social, and political rights.

Results

Using panel data for up to 147 countries for the period of 1981–2007, my findings suggest that CEDAW improves women's social rights advocating changes in cultural practice toward gender equality and this effect is conditional on the level of democracy of a member state. However, the joint effect of CEDAW and democracy does not seem to create any significant impact on women's political and economic rights, nor does CEDAW or democracy alone affect any dimension of women's rights.

Conclusion

These results indicate that collaborative efforts between international law and domestic institution are crucial to promoting gender equality.
A chemical genetic approach demonstrates that MPK3/MPK6 activation and NADPH oxidase‐mediated oxidative burst are two independent signaling events in plant immunity
Authors: Xu Juan , Xie Jie , Yan Chengfei , Zou Xiaoqin , Ren Dongtao , Zhang Shuqun
Published: November 2013

Plant recognition of pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) such as bacterial flagellin‐derived flg22 triggers rapid activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Arabidopsis has at least four PAMP/pathogen‐responsive MAPKs: MPK3, MPK6, MPK4 and MPK11. It was speculated that these MAPKs may function downstream of ROS in plant immunity because of their activation by exogenously added H2O2. MPK3/MPK6 or their orthologs in other plant species have also been reported to be involved in the ROS burst from the plant respiratory burst oxidase homolog (Rboh) of the human neutrophil gp91phox. However, detailed genetic analysis is lacking. Using a chemical genetic approach, we generated a conditional loss‐of‐function mpk3 mpk6 double mutant. Consistent with results obtained using a conditionally rescued mpk3 mpk6 double mutant generated previously, the results obtained using the new conditional loss‐of‐function mpk3 mpk6 double mutant demonstrate that the flg22‐triggered ROS burst is independent of MPK3/MPK6. In Arabidopsis mutants lacking a functional AtRbohD, the flg22‐induced ROS burst was completely blocked. However, activation of MPK3/MPK6 was not affected. Based on these results, we conclude that the rapid ROS burst and MPK3/MPK6 activation are two independent early signaling events in plant immunity, downstream of FLS2. We also found that MPK4 negatively affects the flg22‐induced ROS burst. In addition, salicylic acid pre‐treatment enhances the AtRbohD‐mediated ROS burst, which is again independent of MPK3/MPK6 based on analysis of the mpk3 mpk6 double mutant. The establishment of an mpk3 mpk6 double mutant system using a chemical genetic approach provides a powerful tool to investigate the function of MPK3/MPK6 in the plant defense signaling pathway.
Properties of zinc oxide films grown on sapphire substrates using high-temperature H2O generated by a catalytic reaction on platinum nanoparticles
Authors: Yasui Kanji , Takeuchi Tomohiko , Nagatomi Eichi , Satomoto Souichi , Miura Hitoshi , Kato Takahiro , Konya Takayuki
Published: November 2013

The authors investigated the characteristics of ZnO films grown on a-plane (11-20) sapphire substrates at 773–873 K using a reaction between dimethylzinc and high-temperature H2O generated by a catalytic reaction on Pt nanoparticles. The growth rate was 0.02–0.07 μm min−1. The largest electron mobility and the smallest residual carrier concentration for the ZnO films were 169 cm2 V−1 s−1 and 1.6 × 1017 cm−3, respectively. X-ray diffraction patterns for the ZnO films exhibited intense (0002) and (0004) peaks associated with ZnO (0001) planes. The minimum full width at half maximum of the ω-rocking curve for ZnO (0002) was less than 0.1°. In a ZnO film with a high electron mobility, no rotational domains were identified using a ZnO (10-10) ϕ scan. From secondary ion mass spectroscopy, a hydrogen concentration of 3 × 1018 cm−3 and a boron concentration of 2–5 × 1017 cm−3 were determined. These were identified as extrinsic donor impurities.
Analysis of the Li KLL Auger Transition on Freshly Exposed Lithium and Lithium Surface Oxide by AES
Authors: Mallinson Christopher F. , Castle James E. , Watts John F.
Published: November 2013

Lithium scribed in vacuum and a particle of lithium oxide were analysed by AES and lithium metal exposed to atmosphere for <1 min was analysed by XPS. The oxide particle embedded in the host metal was analysed at low and high take off angles. AES spectra acquired demonstrate the change in the KLL structure with increasing oxygen concentration. Survey spectra as well as high resolution narrow spectra were acquired and are presented. The presence of lithium carbonate, together with the oxide, formed in air, was confirmed by XPS as it is not easily resolvable using AES.
The First NDM Metallo-β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae Isolate in Poland: Evolution of IncFII-Type Plasmids Carrying the
bla
NDM-1
Gene
Authors: Fiett J. , Baraniak A. , Izdebski R. , Sitkiewicz I. , Żabicka D. , Meler A. , Filczak K. , Hryniewicz W. , Gniadkowski M.
Published: November 2013

Poland's first
Enterobacteriaceae
isolate producing the New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM) was identified in August 2011.
Escherichia coli
sequence type ST410 NDM-1 was cultured from a critically ill patient who had been transferred directly from the Congo. The
bla
NDM-1
gene was carried by conjugative IncFII-type plasmid pMC-NDM (87,619 bp), which showed structural similarity to plasmid pGUE-NDM, which was identified earlier in France in an
E. coli
ST131 isolate of Indian origin.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Linezolid versus Daptomycin for Treatment of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcal Bacteremia
Authors: Balli Eleni P. , Venetis Chris A. , Miyakis Spiros
Published: November 2013

Limited therapeutic options exist for the treatment of vancomycin-resistant
Enterococcus
(VRE) bacteremia; the most commonly used are daptomycin and linezolid. We attempted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the comparative efficacy of those two agents. Studies comparing daptomycin to linezolid treatment for VRE bacteremia, published until August 2012, were identified from the MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, ISI Web of Science, and SCOPUS databases. All comparative studies on patients older than 18 years of age that provided mortality data were considered eligible for this systematic review and meta-analysis. Τhe primary outcome of the meta-analysis was 30-day all-cause mortality. Ten retrospective studies including 967 patients were identified. Patients treated with daptomycin had significantly higher 30-day all-cause mortality (odds ratio [OR], 1.61; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08 to 2.40) and infection-related mortality (OR, 3.61; 95% CI, 1.42 to 9.20) rates than patients treated with linezolid. When data from all 10 studies were combined, overall mortality was also significantly increased among patients treated with daptomycin (OR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.06 to 1.89). These findings were confirmed when odds ratios adjusted for potential confounders were pooled. Relapse rates among patients treated with daptomycin were also higher (OR, 2.51; 95% CI, 0.94 to 6.72), although this difference did not reach statistical significance. Adverse event rates were not significantly different between the two groups. Notwithstanding the absence of randomized prospective data, available evidence suggests that mortality rates may be higher with daptomycin than with linezolid among patients treated for VRE bacteremia.
Growth Retardation, Reduced Invasiveness, and Impaired Colistin-Mediated Cell Death Associated with Colistin Resistance Development in Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Pournaras Spyros , Poulou Aggeliki , Dafopoulou Konstantina , Chabane Yassine Nait , Kristo Ioulia , Makris Demosthenes , Hardouin Julie , Cosette Pascal , Tsakris Athanassios , Dé Emmanuelle
Published: November 2013

Two colistin-susceptible/colistin-resistant (Col
s
/Col
r
) pairs of
Acinetobacter baumannii
strains assigned to international clone 2, which is prevalent worldwide, were sequentially recovered from two patients after prolonged colistin administration. Compared with the respective Col
s
isolates (Ab248 and Ab299, both having a colistin MIC of 0.5 μg/ml), both Col
r
isolates (Ab249 and Ab347, with colistin MICs of 128 and 32 μg/ml, respectively) significantly overexpressed
pmrCAB
genes, had single-amino-acid shifts in the PmrB protein, and exhibited significantly slower growth. The Col
r
isolate Ab347, tested by proteomic analysis in comparison with its Col
s
counterpart Ab299, underexpressed the proteins CsuA/B and C from the
csu
operon (which is necessary for biofilm formation). This isolate also underexpressed aconitase B and different enzymes involved in the oxidative stress response (KatE catalase, superoxide dismutase, and alkyl hydroperoxide reductase), suggesting a reduced response to reactive oxygen species (ROS) and, consequently, impaired colistin-mediated cell death through hydroxyl radical production. Col
s
isolates that were indistinguishable by macrorestriction analysis from Ab299 caused six sequential bloodstream infections, and isolates indistinguishable from Ab248 caused severe soft tissue infection, while Col
r
isolates indistinguishable from Ab347 and Ab249 were mainly colonizers. In particular, a Col
s
isolate identical to Ab299 was still invading the bloodstream 90 days after the colonization of this patient by Col
r
isolates. These observations indicate considerably lower invasiveness of
A. baumannii
clinical isolates following the development of colistin resistance.
Towards a Paradigm Shift in the Treatment of Chronic Chagas Disease
Authors: Viotti R. , Alarcón de Noya B. , Araujo-Jorge T. , Grijalva M. J. , Guhl F. , López M. C. , Ramsey J. M. , Ribeiro I. , Schijman A. G. , Sosa-Estani S. , Torrico F. , Gascon J.
Published: November 2013

Treatment for Chagas disease with currently available medications is recommended universally only for acute cases (all ages) and for children up to 14 years old. The World Health Organization, however, also recommends specific antiparasite treatment for all chronic-phase
Trypanosoma cruzi
-infected individuals, even though in current medical practice this remains controversial, and most physicians only prescribe palliative treatment for adult Chagas patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. The present opinion, prepared by members of the NHEPACHA network (Nuevas Herramientas para el Diagnóstico y la Evaluación del Paciente con Enfermedad de Chagas/New Tools for the Diagnosis and Evaluation of Chagas Disease Patients), reviews the paradigm shift based on clinical and immunological evidence and argues in favor of antiparasitic treatment for all chronic patients. We review the tools needed to monitor therapeutic efficacy and the potential criteria for evaluation of treatment efficacy beyond parasitological cure. Etiological treatment should now be mandatory for all adult chronic Chagas disease patients.
ComparativeIn VitroActivities of SMT19969, a New Antimicrobial Agent, against 162 Strains from 35 Less Frequently Recovered Intestinal Clostridium Species: Implications for Clostridium difficile Recurrence
Authors: Goldstein Ellie J. C. , Citron Diane M. , Tyrrell Kerin L.
Published: November 2013

We determined the comparative activity of SMT19969 (SMT) against 162 strains representing 35 well-characterizedClostridiumspecies in clusters I to XIX and 13Clostridiumspecies that had no 16S rRNA match. SMT MICs ranged from 0.06 to >512 μg/ml and were not species related. SMT might have less impact on normal gut microbiota than otherClostridium difficileinfection (CDI) antimicrobials.
‘I call it the blame and shame disease’: a qualitative study about perceptions of social stigma surrounding type 2 diabetes
Authors: Browne Jessica L , Ventura Adriana , Mosely Kylie , Speight Jane
Published: November 2013

Objectives

While health-related stigma has been the subject of considerable research in other conditions (obesity and HIV/AIDS), it has not received substantial attention in diabetes. The aim of the current study was to explore the social experiences of Australian adults living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), with a particular focus on the perception and experience of diabetes-related stigma.

Design

A qualitative study using semistructured interviews, which were audio recorded, transcribed and subject to thematic analysis.

Setting

This study was conducted in non-clinical settings in metropolitan and regional areas in the Australian state of Victoria. Participants were recruited primarily through the state consumer organisation representing people with diabetes.

Participants

All adults aged ≥18 years with T2DM living in Victoria were eligible to take part. Twenty-five adults with T2DM participated (12 women; median age 61 years; median diabetes duration 5 years).

Results

A total of 21 (84%) participants indicated that they believed T2DM was stigmatised, or reported evidence of stigmatisation. Specific themes about the experience of stigma were feeling blamed by others for causing their own condition, being subject to negative stereotyping, being discriminated against or having restricted opportunities in life. Other themes focused on sources of stigma, which included the media, healthcare professionals, friends, family and colleagues. Themes relating to the consequences of this stigma were also evident, including participants’ unwillingness to disclose their condition to others and psychological distress. Participants believed that people with type 1 diabetes do not experience similar stigmatisation.

Conclusions

Our study found evidence of people with T2DM experiencing and perceiving diabetes-related social stigma. Further research is needed to explore ways to measure and minimise diabetes-related stigma at the individual and societal levels, and also to explore perceptions and experiences of stigma in people with type 1 diabetes.
Vitamin D status and TB treatment outcomes in adult patients in Tanzania: a cohort study
Authors: Mehta Saurabh , Mugusi Ferdinand M , Bosch Ronald J , Aboud Said , Urassa Willy , Villamor Eduardo , Fawzi Wafaie W
Published: November 2013

Objectives

Vitamin D is an immunomodulator and can alter response to tuberculosis (TB) treatment, though randomised trials have been inconclusive to date. We present one of the first comprehensive analysis of the associations between vitamin D status and TB treatment, T-cell counts and nutritional outcomes by HIV status.

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

Outpatient clinics in Tanzania.

Participants

25-hydroxyvitamin D levels were assessed in a cohort of 677 patients with TB (344 HIV infected) initiating anti-TB treatment at enrolment in a multivitamin supplementation (excluding vitamin D) trial (Clinicaltrials.gov identifier:NCT00197704).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Information on treatment outcomes such as failure and relapse, HIV disease progression, T-cell counts and anthropometry was collected routinely, with a median follow-up of 52 and 30 months for HIV-uninfected and HIV-infected patients, respectively. Cox and binomial regression, and generalised estimating equations were used to assess the association of vitamin D status with these outcomes.

Results

Mean 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations at enrolment were 69.8 (±21.5) nmol/L (27.9 (±8.6) ng/mL). Vitamin D insufficiency (<75 nmol/L) was associated with a 66% higher risk of relapse (95% CI 4% to 164%; 133% higher risk in HIV-uninfected patients). Each unit higher 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels at baseline were associated with a decrease of 3 (p=0.004) CD8 and 3 (p=0.01) CD3 T-cells/µL during follow-up in patients with HIV infection. Vitamin D insufficiency was also associated with a greater decrease of body mass index (BMI; –0.21 kg/m2; 95% CI −0.39 to −0.02), during the first 8 months of follow-up. No association was observed for vitamin D status with mortality or HIV disease progression.

Conclusions

Adequate vitamin D status is associated with a lower risk of relapse and with improved nutritional indicators such as BMI in patients with TB, with or without HIV infection. Further research is needed to determine the optimal dose of vitamin D and effectiveness of daily vitamin D supplementation among patients with TB.
The interactive effects of housing and neighbourhood quality on psychological well-being
Authors: Jones-Rounds McKenzie L , Evans Gary W , Braubach Matthias
Published: November 2013

Background

Many individuals are subject to the physically and mentally detrimental effects of living in substandard housing and inadequate neighbourhoods. We propose that better physical neighbourhood quality can partially offset some of the negative effects of poor housing quality on psychological well-being.

Methods

Interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data in a cross-sectional study of housing quality, the state of the surrounding environment, and individual health and well-being for 5605 European adults from the Large Analysis and Review of European housing and health Status conducted by WHO in eight European cities. Multilevel random coefficient modelling was used to statistically analyse the main and interactive effects of housing quality and neighbourhood quality on psychological well-being. Socioeconomic status, employment status, gender and marital status were included as statistical controls.

Results and conclusions

Substandard housing quality and poor neighbourhood quality each contribute to lower psychological well-being. Furthermore better neighbourhood quality buffers against the negative effects of poor housing quality on psychological well-being. These results fill a gap in research concerning the ability of neighbourhood quality to amplify or attenuate housing quality impacts on well-being.
Use of administrative medical databases in population-based research
Authors: Gavrielov-Yusim Natalie , Friger Michael
Published: November 2013

Administrative medical databases are massive repositories of data collected in healthcare for various purposes. Such databases are maintained in hospitals, health maintenance organisations and health insurance organisations. Administrative databases may contain medical claims for reimbursement, records of health services, medical procedures, prescriptions, and diagnoses information. It is clear that such systems may provide a valuable variety of clinical and demographic information as well as an on-going process of data collection. In general, information gathering in these databases does not initially presume and is not planned for research purposes. Nonetheless, administrative databases may be used as a robust research tool. In this article, we address the subject of public health research that employs administrative data. We discuss the biases and the limitations of such research, as well as other important epidemiological and biostatistical key points specific to administrative database studies.
Suicide rates among working-age adults in South Korea before and after the 2008 economic crisis
Authors: Chan Chee Hon , Caine Eric D , You Sungeun , Fu King Wa , Chang Shu Sen , Yip Paul Siu Fai
Published: November 2013

Background

Multiple studies have shown that macroeconomic factors are associated with changes in suicide rates. We investigated how changes in economic conditions associated with the recent economic crisis in South Korea influenced suicide rates among working-age adults.

Methods

Time-series analyses were performed to examine the temporal associations of national unemployment rates and sex-employment-specific suicide rates in South Korea from 2003 to 2011, with particular attention to the increases of suicides that occurred during the recessionary period that began in 2008. We also compared the relative risk of suicide among different occupations.

Results

National unemployment rates were positively associated with suicide rates among employed and unemployed men and women, with a 2-month to 3 month lagged period. Significant increases of suicide rates among working-age adults during the recession were detected in most of the subgroups stratified by age, sex and employment status. Forty-three per cent of the increase of suicides was derived from the employed population. Compared with workers in elementary occupations, the relative risk of suicide for mangers increased by threefold during the recessionary period. Among those who were employed, half of the increases in suicides occurred among clerks and workers involved in sales and services.

Conclusions

Changes in macroeconomic conditions are tied to population-level suicide risks for employed and unemployed persons. However, these associations vary depending on sex, employment status and occupational roles. In advance of future economic crises, it is important to develop prevention initiatives intended to reach the diverse populations potentially exposed to the adverse effects of sudden economic disruptions.
Age of first drinking and adult alcohol problems: systematic review of prospective cohort studies
Authors: Maimaris Will , McCambridge Jim
Published: November 2013

Background

Alcohol policies around the world seek to delay the initiation of drinking. This is partly based on the influential idea that earlier initiation is likely to cause adult alcohol problems. This study synthesises robust evidence for this proposition.

Methods

Systematic review of prospective cohort studies in which adolescent measurement of age of first drink in general population studies was separated by at least 3 years from adult alcohol outcomes. EMBASE, Medline, PsychINFO and Social Policy and Practice were searched for eligible studies, alongside standard non-database data collection activities. Data were extracted on included study methods and findings. Risk of bias and confounding was assessed for individual studies and a narrative synthesis of findings was performed.

Results

The main finding was the meagre evidence base available. Only five studies were eligible for inclusion in this review. The existence of effects of age of first drink on adult drinking and related problems were supported, but not at all strongly, in some included studies, and not in others. Rigorous control for confounding markedly attenuates or eliminates any observed effects.

Conclusions

There is no strong evidence that starting drinking earlier leads to adult alcohol problems and more research is needed to address this important question. Policy makers should, therefore, reconsider the justification for delaying initiation as a strategy to address levels of adult alcohol problems in the general population, while also addressing the serious acute harms produced by early drinking.
Modelling Pinus pinea forest management to attain natural regeneration under present and future climatic scenarios
Authors: Manso Rubén , Pukkala Timo , Pardos Marta , Miina Jari , Calama Rafael
Published: November 2013

Natural regeneration-based silviculture has been increasingly regarded as a reliable option in sustainable forest management. However, successful natural regeneration is not always easy to achieve. Recently, new concerns have arisen because of changing future climate. To date, regeneration models have proved helpful in decision-making concerning natural regeneration. The implementation of such models into optimization routines is a promising approach in providing forest managers with accurate tools for forest planning. In the present study, we present a stochastic multistage regeneration model for Pinus pinea L. managed woodlands in Central Spain, where regeneration has been historically unsuccessful. The model is able to quantify recruitment under different silviculture alternatives and varying climatic scenarios, with further application to optimize management scheduling. The regeneration process in the species showed high between-year variation, with all subprocesses (seed production, dispersal, germination, predation, and seedling survival) having the potential to become bottlenecks. However, model simulations demonstrate that current intensive management is responsible for regeneration failure in the long term. Specifically, stand densities at rotation age are too low to guarantee adequate dispersal, the optimal density of seed-producing trees being around 150 stems·ha−1. In addition, rotation length needs to be extended up to 120 years to benefit from the higher seed production of older trees. Stochastic optimization confirms these results. Regeneration does not appear to worsen under climate change conditions; the species exhibiting resilience worthy of broader consideration in Mediterranean silviculture.
Quantum teleportation via two-qubit Heisenberg XYZ chain
Authors: Zidan Nour
Published: November 2013

Quantum teleportation via the entanglement channel composed of a two-qubit Heisenberg XYZ chain with Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya interaction in the presence of both inhomogeneous external magnetic field and intrinsic decoherence has been investigated. It is shown that the initial state of the channel plays an important role in the fully entangled fraction and the average fidelity of teleportation. It is found that when the initial system is in the entangled state |Ψ⟩ = m2|01⟩ + n2|10⟩ the corresponding average fidelity is always larger than 2/3.
Skull allometry and sexual dimorphism in the ontogeny of the southern elephant seal (Miroungaleonina)
Authors: Tarnawski B.A. , Cassini G.H. , Flores D.A.
Published: November 2013

The southern elephant seal (Mirounga leonina (L., 1758)) is one of the most dimorphic mammals, but sexual dimorphism in its skull ontogeny is poorly known. We study ontogeny of sexual dimorphism by the allometric relationships between 21 measurements and its geometric mean. Based on 66 specimens (36 females, 30 males), the bivariate and multivariate analyses indicated that both approaches were congruent in most variables. We detected that sexual dimorphism was reached mostly by sexual shape differences in the ontogenetic trajectories of males and females. Twenty-four percent of variables were associated with intercept differences (pup size proportions), while 57% of variables were associated with slope intersexual differences (relative growth rates). Contrarily, sexual dimorphism was also achieved by size differences in adult stages (19% of variables), as males exhibited an extension of their common ontogenetic trajectories. Secondary growth spurt in males was detected for few variables. Our comparison with analogous data collected from southern sea lions (Otaria byronia (de Blainville, 1820)) indicated that in both species, sexual dimorphism was mostly associated with an enhanced ability to defend territories, which was linked to the polygynic behavior. However, discrepancies between both ontogenetic patterns of dimorphism were associated with interspecific differences in their life cycles.
CUTTING OUT POLYGONS WITH A CIRCULAR SAW
Authors: DUMITRESCU ADRIAN , HASAN MASUD
Published: November 2013

Given a simple (cuttable) polygon Q drawn on a piece of planar material R, we cut Q out of R by a (small) circular saw with a total number of cuts no more than twice the optimal. This improves the previous approximation ratio of 2.5 obtained by Demaine et al in 2001.
APPLICATION OF p-ADIC ANALYSIS TO TIME SERIES
Authors: KHRENNIKOV A. YU. , KOZYREV S. V. , OLESCHKO K. , JARAMILLO A. G. , de JESÚS CORREA LÓPEZ M.
Published: November 2013

Time series defined by a p-adic pseudo-differential equation is investigated using the expansion of the time series over p-adic wavelets. Quadratic correlation function is computed. This correlation function shows a degree-like behavior and is locally constant for some time periods. It is natural to apply this kind of models for the investigation of avalanche processes and punctuated equilibrium as well as fractal-like analysis of time series generated by measurement of pressure in oil wells.
A NEW 1D MODEL FOR SUPERSONIC EJECTOR PERFORMANCE EVALUATION AT CRITICAL AND SUB-CRITICAL OPERATIONAL MODES
Authors: MAGHSOODI A. , AHMADIKIA H. , DADVAR M.
Published: November 2013

A new 1D model is proposed to predict ejector performance at critical and sub-critical operational modes, while most previous 1D models have predicted ejector performance only at critical mode. Constant pressure mixing is assumed to occur inside the constant area section of the ejector at both operational modes. Experimental data from different ejector geometries and various operation conditions reported earlier are used to verify the effectiveness of the new model. The model has a good performance in predicting the mass flow rates and the entrainment ratio, a useful tool for predicting ejector performance within larger refrigeration cycle models.
A record of Eocene (Stronsay Group) sedimentation in BGS borehole 99/3, offshore NW Britain: Implications for early post-break-up development of the Faroe–Shetland Basin
Authors: Stoker M. S. , Leslie A. B. , Smith K.
Published: November 2013

Synopsis

A punctuated Eocene succession has been recovered in British Geological Survey borehole 99/3 from the Faroe–Shetland Basin. The borehole was drilled close to the crest of the Judd Anticline and penetrated 110.5 m into the post-break-up Stronsay Group. The borehole proved 23.8 m of Ypresian–earliest Lutetian paralic to shallow-marine deposits, unconformably overlain by 43.85 m of mid-Lutetian lower shoreface to shallow-marine shelf deposits, in turn unconformably overlain by 42.85 m of late Bartonian–Priabonian mass-flow (slope apron) and basinal deposits. At the borehole site, the Ypresian–earliest Lutetian sediments were subaerially exposed in early Lutetian times; these deposits were subsequently transgressed by the mid-Lutetian shelf – itself eroded in the late Lutetian with reworked material transported northwards and re-deposited in the Mid-Eocene basin-floor fan complex in Quadrants 213 and 214. The eroded mid-Lutetian shelf was subsequently downlapped and buried beneath prograding late Bartonian–Priabonian slope apron-to-basinal sediments as the borehole site subsided. Integrating the borehole data with the regional seismic-stratigraphy indicates three major intervals of regression – early/mid-Lutetian, late Lutetian and late Bartonian – which, it is suggested, coincide predominantly with tectonic activity, particularly compressional deformation, possibly linking the early post-break-up development of the Faroe–Shetland Basin to the evolution of the adjacent Norwegian Basin.
Topical Promethazine Side Effects: Our Experience and Review of the Literature
Authors: Cantisani C. , Ricci S. , Grieco T. , Paolino G. , Faina V. , Silvestri E. , Calvieri S.
Published: November 2013

Promethazine hydrochloride is a first-generation H1 receptor antagonist, antihistamine, and antiemetic medication that can also have strong sedative effects. The apparent ability of topical H1r/2r antagonists to target epidermal H1/2r was translated into increased efficacy in the treatment of inflammatory dermatoses, likely due to decreased inflammation and enhanced barrier function.
Association of Genetic Variants ofBMP4with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Clinical Traits in a Chinese Han Population
Authors: Tang Shanshan , Zhang Rong , Yu Weihui , Jiang Feng , Wang Jie , Chen Miao , Peng Danfeng , Yan Jing , Bao Yuqian , Jia Weiping
Published: November 2013

BMP4is one of the transforming growth factor-βsuperfamily, which can participate in adipogenesis. Gene encodingBMP4is acknowledged as a convincing candidate that may contribute to both glucose and lipid metabolism. In this paper, we aimed to test the impacts ofBMP4variants on type 2 diabetes in a large sample of Chinese population. We genotyped 10 tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms within theBMP4region in 6822 participants and acquired detailed clinical investigations and biochemistry measurements. We found thatBMP4rs8014363 showed nominal association towards type 2 diabetes, with the T allele conferring a high risk of type 2 diabetes (OR=1.108, 95%CI 0.999–1.229,P=0.051for allele;OR=1.110, 95%CI 1.000–1.231,P=0.050for genotype), but it was no longer statistically significant after adjusting for multiple testing (empiricalP=0.3689for allele based on 10,000 permutations). Moreover, we observed a significant association of rs8014363 with triglyceride level and a trend towards association with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol after adjusting for age, gender, and BMI (P=0.035and 0.068, resp.). Our data suggested that the genetic variants ofBMP4may not play a dominant role in glucose metabolism in Chinese Han population, but a minor effect cannot be ignored.
Implementation of a Low-Cost Mobile Devices to Support Medical Diagnosis
Authors: García Sánchez Carlos , Botella Juan Guillermo , Ayuso Márquez Fermín , González Rodríguez Diego , Prieto-Matías Manuel , Tirado Fernández Francisco
Published: November 2013

Medical imaging has become an absolutely essential diagnostic tool for clinical practices; at present, pathologies can be detected with an earliness never before known. Its use has not only been relegated to the field of radiology but also, increasingly, to computer-based imaging processes prior to surgery. Motion analysis, in particular, plays an important role in analyzing activities or behaviors of live objects in medicine. This short paper presents several low-cost hardware implementation approaches for the new generation of tablets and/or smartphones for estimating motion compensation and segmentation in medical images. These systems have been optimized for breast cancer diagnosis using magnetic resonance imaging technology with several advantages over traditional X-ray mammography, for example, obtaining patient information during a short period. This paper also addresses the challenge of offering a medical tool that runs on widespread portable devices, both on tablets and/or smartphones to aid in patient diagnostics.