bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurodevelopment after Fetal Growth Restriction
Authors: Baschat Ahmet A.
Published: September 2013

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) can emerge as a complication of placental dysfunction and increases the risk for neurodevelopmental delay. Marked elevations of umbilical artery (UA) Doppler resistance that set the stage for cardiovascular and biophysical deterioration with subsequent preterm birth characterize early-onset FGR. Minimal, or absent UA Doppler abnormalities and isolated cerebral Doppler changes with subtle deterioration and a high risk for unanticipated term stillbirth are characteristic for late-onset FGR. Nutritional deficiency manifested in lagging head growth is the most powerful predictor of developmental delay in all forms of FGR. Extremes of blood flow resistance and cardiovascular deterioration, prematurity and intracranial hemorrhage increase the risks for psychomotor delay and cerebral palsy. In late-onset FGR, regional cerebral vascular redistribution correlates with abnormal behavioral domains. Irrespective of the phenotype of FGR, prenatal tests that provide precise and independent stratification of risks for adverse neurodevelopment have yet to be determined.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Intrauterine Growth Restriction: Cardiovascular Disorders
Authors: Demicheva Elena , Crispi Fatima
Published: September 2013

In the modern world, cardiovascular disorders are the leading cause of mortality in developed countries, which in most cases undergo a long subclinical phase that can last decades before the first clinical symptoms appear. Aside from the well-known risk factors related to lifestyle and genetics, there is growing evidence that in a proportion of cases, the predisposition to cardiovascular disease lies in prenatal life. Moreover, numerous historical cohort studies and animal models have shown a clear association between low birth weight and increased cardiovascular mortality in adulthood, including increased risk of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia and coagulation disorders in children and adults. Besides premature birth, low birth weight in the majority of the cases is caused by intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), which affects up to 10% of all births. Several clinical and experimental studies showed that IUGR fetuses present signs of cardiac dysfunction in utero that persist postnatally and may condition higher cardiovascular risk later in life. The present review discusses the importance of the long-term cardiovascular follow-up of the patients who suffered early or late IUGR in utero, particularly with regard to the long-term epidemiological studies in adults, prospective studies in children and the possible mechanisms that trigger IUGR and cardiovascular programming. Considering the high prevalence of IUGR and the progressing availability of intervention strategies, it is of the highest clinical relevance to detect cardiovascular risks as early as possible, to introduce timely preventive interventions and to adapt the lifestyle, in order to improve the long-term cardiovascular health outcome of IUGR cases.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Patients 3 Years after Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Haemorrhage
Authors: Visser-Meily J.M.A. , Rinkel G.J.E. , Vergouwen M.D.I. , Passier P.E.C.A. , van Zandvoort M.J.E. , Post M.W.M.
Published: September 2013

Background: Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) from a ruptured intracranial aneurysm accounts for approximately 5% of all strokes. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common in the early phase after recovery from aneurysmal SAH. The aim of our study was to examine the prevalence of PTSD 3 years after SAH, its predictors, and relationship with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in patients living independently in the community. Methods: From a prospectively collected cohort of 143 patients with aneurysmal SAH who visited our outpatient clinic 3 months after SAH, 94 patients (65.7%) completed a mailed questionnaire 3 years after SAH. We assessed PTSD with the Impact of Event Scale and HRQoL with the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale (SS-QoL). The χ2 and t tests were used to investigate if patients who returned the questionnaires were different from those who did not reply. Non-parametric tests (χ2 and Mann-Whitney tests) were used to test for differences between patients with and without PTSD. Relative risks and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Results: No relevant differences in demographic (age, sex, education) or SAH characteristics (clinical condition on admission, complication, location of aneurysm, Glasgow Outcome Scale score at 3 months) were seen between participants and drop-outs. In 24 patients (26%), Impact of Event Scale scores indicated PTSD. Passive coping style (relative risk, 5.7; 95% confidence interval, 2.1-15.3), but none of the demographic or SAH-related factors, predicted PTSD. The mean SS-QoL total score was 4.2 (SD 1.1), indicative of a relatively satisfactory HRQoL. PTSD was associated with lower HRQoL (p < 0.001), a mean SS-QoL score of 4.4 (SD 1.0) without PTSD, and a mean SS-QoL score of 3.5 (SD 1.1) with PTSD. Conclusions: Even 3 years after SAH, 1 out of 4 patients had PTSD, which was associated with reduced HRQoL. Passive coping style was the most important predictor. There is a need to organize SAH care with more attention to and treatment of PTSD. Strategies shown to reduce PTSD in other conditions should be tested for effectiveness in SAH patients.
Prefibrillar Tau Oligomers in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Mufson Elliott J. , Ward Sarah , Binder Lester
Published: September 2013

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of extracellular amyloid-β peptide and intracellular tau. Here, we review data suggesting that prefibrillar tau oligomers mediate cognitive decline early in the disease. Objective: It was our aim to study the presence of tau-positive pretangle neurons and correlate findings with cognitive test scores. Methods: Pretangle antibodies (TOC1 and pS422) were applied to tissue containing cholinergic basal forebrain neurons from people who died with a premortem clinical diagnosis of no cognitive impairment, mild cognitive impairment and AD. Results: Data lend support to the concept that tau oligomers are the toxic form of tau, that non-fibillar tau relates to cognitive dysfunction and that the earliest pretangle pathology occurs in neuritic processes. Conclusions: Clinicopathological findings highlight the importance of studying tau modifications in neuronal soma and neuritic processes, which may be the earliest pathological lesions that correlate with cognitive status.
Karyotype-Phenotype Correlation in Partial Trisomies of the Short Arm of Chromosome 6: A Family Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Castiglione A. , Guaran V. , Astolfi L. , Orioli E. , Zeri G. , Gemmati D. , Bovo R. , Montaldi A. , Alghisi A. , Martini A.
Published: September 2013

The first child (proband) of nonconsanguineous Caucasian parents underwent genetic investigation because she was affected with congenital choanal atresia, heart defects and kidney hyposplasia with mild transient renal insufficiency. The direct DNA sequencing after PCR of the CHD7 gene, which is thought to be responsible for approximately 60-70% of the cases of CHARGE syndrome/association, found no mutations. The cytogenetic analysis (standard GTG banding karyotype) revealed the presence of extrachromosomal material on 10q. The chromosome analysis was completed with array CGH (30 kb resolution), MLPA and FISH, which allowed the identification of three 6p regions (6p.25.3p23 × 3): 2 of these regions are normally located on chromosome 6, and the third region is translocated to the long arm of chromosome 10. The same chromosomal rearrangement was subsequently found in the father, who was affected with congenital ptosis and progressive hearing loss, and in the proband's sister, the second child, who presented at birth with choanal atresia and congenital heart defects. The mutated karyotypes, which were directly inherited, are thought to be responsible for a variable phenotype, including craniofacial dysmorphisms, choanal atresia, congenital ptosis, sensorineural hearing loss, heart defects, developmental delay, and renal dysfunction. Nevertheless, to achieve a complete audiological assessment of the father, he underwent further investigation that revealed an increased level of the coagulation factor XIII (300% increased activity), fluctuating levels of fibrin D-dimer degradation products (from 296 to 1,587 ng/ml) and a homoplasmic mitochondrial DNA mutation: T961G in the MTRNR1 (12S rRNA) gene. He was made a candidate for cochlear implantation. Preoperative high-resolution computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the temporal bone revealed the presence of an Arnold-Chiari malformation type I. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the second report on partial 6p trisomy that involves the 10q terminal region. Furthermore, we report the first case of documented Arnold-Chiari malformation type I and increased factor XIII activity associated with 6p trisomy. We present a comprehensive report of the familial cases and an exhaustive literature review.
Pharmacological Treatment of Dementia: A Scoping Review of Systematic Reviews
Authors: van de Glind Esther M.M. , van Enst Wynanda A. , van Munster Barbara C. , Olde Rikkert Marcel G.M. , Scheltens Philip , Scholten Rob J.P.M. , Hooft Lotty
Published: September 2013

Background: Until now, multiple reviews on the pharmacological treatment of dementia have been published. Methods: We performed a scoping review to summarize research findings and to identify gaps in the existing literature. We searched the literature and assessed the risk of bias of the included reviews. A team of clinical experts assessed the fields in which more research is necessary. Fifty-five reviews with a low risk of bias were included, most of them concerning the treatment of cognitive decline (n = 16) and behavioral symptoms (n = 10) in Alzheimer's disease (AD). For cognitive impairment, cholinesterase inhibitors (n = 13) and memantine (n = 7) were described most frequently. Little information was found about the treatment of depression in dementia. Conclusions: For many current treatments, there is sufficient evidence. New research should focus on the symptomatic treatment of the earliest and most salient complaints in AD as well as on disease-modifying interventions acting at the level of the amyloid cascade.
Time Is Brain: Starting Therapeutic Hypothermia within Three Hours after Birth Improves Motor Outcome in Asphyxiated Newborns
Authors: Thoresen Marianne , Tooley James , Liu Xun , Jary Sally , Fleming Peter , Luyt Karen , Jain Anoopam , Cairns Pamela , Harding David , Sabir Hemmen
Published: September 2013

Objective: Therapeutic hypothermia (HT) is the standard treatment for newborns after perinatal asphyxia. Preclinical studies report that HT is more effective when started early. Methods: Eighty cooled newborns were analyzed and grouped according to when cooling was started after birth: early (≤180 min) or late (>181 min). For survivors we analyzed whether starting cooling early was associated with a better psychomotor or mental developmental index (PDI or MDI, Bayley Scales of Infant Development II) than late cooling. Results: Forty-three newborns started cooling early and 37 started late. There was no significant difference in the severity markers of perinatal asphyxia between the groups; however, nonsurvivors (n = 15) suffered more severe asphyxia and had significantly lower centiles for weight (BWC; p = 0.009). Of the 65 infants that survived, 35 were cooled early and 30 were cooled late. There was no difference in time to start cooling between those who survived and those who did not. For survivors, median PDI (IQR) was significantly higher when cooled early [90 (77-99)] compared to being cooled later [78 (70-90); p = 0.033]. There was no increase in cardiovascular adverse effects in those cooled early. There was no significant difference in MDI between early and late cooling [93 (77-103) vs. 89 (76-106), p = 0.594]. Conclusion: Starting cooling before 3 h of age in surviving asphyxiated newborns is safe and significantly improves motor outcome. Cooling should be initiated as soon as possible after birth in eligible infants.
Irisinemia: A Novel Concept to Coin in Clinical Medicine?
Authors: Sanchis-Gomar Fabian , Perez-Quilis Carme
Published: September 2013

Skeletal muscle can express and release substances such as cytokines or other peptides capable of modulating metabolic processes. These cytokines, named ‘myokines', function as hormones either locally within the muscle or by targeting distant organs. A novel peptidic myokine named ‘irisin' has been recently identified. It has been noted that circulating irisin levels are lower in type 2 diabetes (T2D) compared with nondiabetic controls as well as in patients with chronic kidney disease. In addition, a negative correlation between the hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and circulating levels of irisin has been also observed. Thus, the blood concentration of irisin may reflect the metabolic status of patients suffering from metabolism disorders. In addition to glycemia or HbA1c, ‘irisinemia' may also become a new promising concept employed to monitor metabolic disorders such as T2D or obesity, representing a novel and useful tool in the management of metabolic diseases in the near future.
Niflumic Acid Reduces Histamine-Induced Interleukin-6 and -8 Expression in Human Conjunctival Epithelial Cells
Authors: Lim Sung A. , Hwang Kyu Yeon , Chung So-Hyang
Published: September 2013

Background/Aims: Histamine remains the main mediator of allergic conjunctivitis and induces interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 production in human conjunctival epithelial cells (HCEC). The purpose of the present study was to determine whether histamine induced IL-6 and IL-8 expression in HCEC, and to describe the relationship between human calcium-activated chloride channel (hCLCA) 1 activity and IL-6 and IL-8 expression. Methods: HCEC were isolated from human conjunctiva and cultured at an air-liquid interface. IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA expression was examined by real-time PCR, and IL-6 and IL-8 secretion was measured by ELISA after stimulation of HCEC with histamine. Results: Histamine upregulated IL-6 and IL-8 expression and IL-6 and IL-8 secretion in a dose-dependent manner in HCEC. Niflumic acid (NFA), an hCLCA blocker, reduced histamine-induced IL-6 and IL-8 expression. Conclusion: Histamine-induced IL-6 and IL-8 production could be attenuated by NFA, an hCLCA blocker.
Current Clinical Indications for Plerixafor
Authors: Fruehauf Stefan
Published: September 2013

Autologous and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation are considered the standard of care for many malignancies including lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and some leukemias. In many cases, mobilized peripheral blood has become the preferred source for HSCs. Plerixafor, an inhibitor of the interaction between CX chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) and stromal derived factor-1 alpha (SDF-1), has been evaluated in clinical trials and approved by the FDA and EMA. This agent has very modest toxicity and appears to be quite potent at HSC mobilization. Current clinical indications for the use of plerixafor are the subject of this review.
Die Flourishing Scale (FS) von Diener et al. liegt jetzt in einer autorisierten deutschen Fassung (FS-D) vor: Einsatz bei einer Mind-Body-medizinischen Fragestellung
Authors: Esch Tobias , Jose Gerald , Gimpel Christine , von Scheidt Christel , Michalsen Andreas
Published: September 2013

Hintergrund: Die Flourishing Scale (FS) von Ed Diener et al. wurde im Rahmen einer Interventionsstudie ins Deutsche übersetzt und erstmals im deutschsprachigen Raum getestet und validiert. Methoden: Die FS ist ein kurzes 8-Item-Messinstrument. Die Items wurden aus verschiedenen Bereichen, die ein subjektives psychologisches Wohlbefinden beschreiben, zusammengesetzt. Ergebnisse: Die deutsche Version der Flourishing Scale (FS-D) erwies sich als stabiles, reliables und valides Messinstrument für das psychologische «Aufblühen» (Flourishing) bei Patienten einer Mind-Body-medizinischen Tagesklinik. Wesentliche Parameter des Original-Fragebogens konnten verifiziert werden. Schlussfolgerung: Zusätzlich werden Zusammenhänge zwischen Flourishing, Achtsamkeit, Kohärenzgefühl und gesundheitsbezogener Lebensqualität (sowie Mind-Body-Medizin) dargestellt.
Dementia: Treating Patients and Caregivers with Complementary and Alternative Medicine - Results of a Clinical Expert Conference Using the World Café Method
Authors: Teut Michael , Bloedt Susanne , Baur Roland , Betsch Frederik , Elies Michael , Fruehwald Maria , Fuesgen Ingo , Kerckhoff Annette , Krüger Eckard , Schimpf Dorothee , Schnabel Katharina , Walach Harald , Warme Britta , Warning Albercht , Wilkens Johannes , Witt Claudia M.
Published: September 2013

Background: In Germany the number of inhabitants with dementia is expected to increase from 1.2 million at present to 2.3 million in 2050. Our aim was to investigate which treatments complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) experts consider to be of therapeutic use in developing treatment strategies and hypotheses for further clinical studies. Methods: In a participatory group workshop the ‘World Café' method was used. As questions we asked: 1) ‘Based on your clinical experience, which CAM therapies are effective in the treatment of patients with dementia? 2) Based on your clinical experience, which CAM therapies are effective in the treatment of lay and professional caregivers of patients with dementia?, and 3) How should a CAM treatment program look like?' Further Delphi rounds were used to reach consensus and summarize the results. Results: The 2-day workshop took place in January 2012 in Berlin. A total of 17 experts participated. The most important subject in the treatment was the need to understand patients' biographies in order to individualize the therapy. Therapy itself consists of the therapeutic relationship, nonmedical therapies such as sports, massage, music and arts therapy as well as medical treatment such as herbal or homeopathic medicines. With regard to caregivers the most important aim is to prevent or reduce psychological distress, e.g., by mind-body programs. Instead of single treatments, more general elements such as understanding the patients' biographies, therapeutic relationships, individualizing, networking, and self-care emerged as main results. Discussion: An integrative treatment program should connect outpatient and inpatient care as well as all experts. CAM training courses should be offered to doctors, nurses, and caregivers. Future clinical studies should focus on complex intervention programs integrating these key elements.
Management of Hyperphosphataemia in Chronic Kidney Disease: Summary of National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) Guideline
Authors: Dasgupta Indranil , Shroff Rukshana , Bennett-Jones David , McVeigh Gary ,   for the NICE Hyperphosphataemia Guideline Development Group
Published: September 2013

Bone disease and ectopic calcification are the two main consequences of hyperphosphataemia of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Observational studies have demonstrated that hyperphosphataemia in CKD is associated with increased mortality. Furthermore, the use of phosphate binders in dialysis patients is associated with significantly lower mortality. The UK Renal Registry data show significant underachievement of phosphate targets in dialysis patients. It is believed to be due to wide variation in how management interventions are used. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has developed a guideline on the management of hyperphosphataemia in CKD. This is based on the evidence currently available using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. This review outlines the recommendations including research recommendations and discusses methodology, rationale and challenges faced in developing this guideline and the health economic model used to assess the cost-effectiveness of different phosphate binders.
Prognostic Factors and Long-Term Outcome of Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: Ki-67 Index Shows a Greater Impact on Survival than Disease Stage. The Large Experience of the Spanish National Tumor Registry (RGETNE)
Authors: Martin-Perez Elena , Capdevila Jaume , Castellano Daniel , Jimenez-Fonseca Paula , Salazar Ramon , Beguiristain-Gomez Adolfo , Alonso-Orduña Vicente , Martinez del Prado Purificacion , Villabona-Artero Carles , Diaz-Perez Jose A. , Monleon Antonio , Marazuela Monica , Pachon Vanessa , Sastre-Valera Javier , Sevilla Isabel , Castaño Angel , Garcia-Carbonero Rocio
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PNENs) are uncommon neoplasms with a wide spectrum of clinical behavior. The objective of this study was to assess in a large cohort of patients the relative impact of prognostic factors on survival. Methods: From June 2001 through October 2010, 1,271 patients were prospectively registered online (www.getne.org) at the Spanish National Cancer Registry for Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (RGETNE) by participating centers. Clinical and histopathological features were assessed as potential prognostic factors by uni- and multivariate analyses. Results: Of 483 PNENs, 171 (35%) were functional (F) and 312 (65%) non-functional (NF). NF-PNENs were associated with a higher incidence of histological features denoting more aggressive disease, such as poor tumor differentiation, Ki-67 >20%, or vascular invasion (NF- vs. F-PNENs, respectively, p < 0.05). Nevertheless, functionality was not a significant predictor of survival (p = 0.19). Stage at diagnosis, Ki-67 index, tumor differentiation and surgical resection of the primary tumor were all significant prognostic factors in univariate analysis. However, Ki-67 (>20 vs. ≤2%) (hazard ratio (HR) 2.21, p = 0.01) and surgical resection (yes vs. no) (HR 0.92, p = 0.001) were the only independent predictors of survival in multivariate analysis. Among patients who underwent surgery, high Ki-67 index (HR 10.37, p = 0.02) and poor differentiation (HR 8.16, p = 0.03) were the only independent predictors of clinical outcome. Conclusion: Ki-67 index and tumor differentiation are key prognostic factors influencing survival of patients with PNENs and, in contrast to what it is observed for other solid malignancies, they seem to have a greater impact on survival than the extent of disease. This should be borne in mind by physicians in order to appropriately tailor therapeutic strategies and surveillance of these patients.
Cost and Resource Utilization Associated With Use of Computed Tomography to Evaluate Chest Pain in the Emergency Department
Authors: Hulten Edward , Goehler Alexander , Bittencourt Marcio Sommer , Bamberg Fabian , Schlett Christopher L. , Truong Quynh A. , Nichols John , Nasir Khurram , Rogers Ian S. , Gazelle Scott G. , Nagurney John T. , Hoffmann Udo , Blankstein Ron
Published: September 2013

Background—

Coronary computed tomographic angiography (cCTA) allows rapid, noninvasive exclusion of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). However, concern exists whether implementation of cCTA in the assessment of patients presenting to the emergency department with acute chest pain will lead to increased downstream testing and costs compared with alternative strategies. Our aim was to compare observed actual costs of usual care (UC) with projected costs of a strategy including early cCTA in the evaluation of patients with acute chest pain in the Rule Out Myocardial Infarction Using Computer Assisted Tomography I (ROMICAT I) study.

Methods and Results—

We compared cost and hospital length of stay of UC observed among 368 patients enrolled in the ROMICAT I study with projected costs of management based on cCTA. Costs of UC were determined by an electronic cost accounting system. Notably, UC was not influenced by cCTA results because patients and caregivers were blinded to the cCTA results. Costs after early implementation of cCTA were estimated assuming changes in management based on cCTA findings of the presence and severity of CAD. Sensitivity analysis was used to test the influence of key variables on both outcomes and costs. We determined that in comparison with UC, cCTA-guided triage, whereby patients with no CAD are discharged, could reduce total hospital costs by 23% (
P
<0.001). However, when the prevalence of obstructive CAD increases, index hospitalization cost increases such that when the prevalence of ≥50% stenosis is >28% to 33%, the use of cCTA becomes more costly than UC.

Conclusions—

cCTA may be a cost-saving tool in acute chest pain populations that have a prevalence of potentially obstructive CAD <30%. However, increased cost would be anticipated in populations with higher prevalence of disease.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00990262.
Serum Alkaline Phosphatase and Phosphate in Cerebral Atherosclerosis and Functional Outcomes After Cerebral Infarction
Authors: Kim Jinkwon , Song Tae-Jin , Song Dongbeom , Lee Hye Sun , Nam Chung Mo , Nam Hyo Suk , Kim Young Dae , Heo Ji Hoe
Published: September 2013

Background and Purpose—

Higher serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and phosphate levels are associated with atherosclerotic disease and an increased risk of cardiovascular events. However, the association of ALP/phosphate with cerebral atherosclerosis and prognosis in patients with acute stroke is not well known.

Methods—

In 1034 patients with first-ever acute cerebral infarction, levels of ALP and phosphate were compared with (1) cerebral atherosclerosis and (2) poor long-term functional outcomes as defined by the modified Rankin Scale >2 at 3 months after stroke onset.

Results—

ALP levels were not associated with cerebral atherosclerosis. However, higher levels of ALP were associated with a poor functional outcome (adjusted odds ratio per 1 SD, 1.25; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–1.50). Phosphate was associated with neither cerebral atherosclerosis nor functional outcome.

Conclusions—

A higher level of ALP was not associated with cerebral atherosclerosis but was an independent prognostic factor for long-term functional outcome after acute cerebral infarction.
Amphipod assemblages from an artificial reef: a long-term analysis
Authors: Targusi M. , Lattanzi L. , Nicoletti L.
Published: September 2013

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the long-term development of a hard bottom amphipod assemblage over a period of 12 years. Amphipod data were collected in the artificial reef of Fregene, situated in the central Tyrrhenian Sea (Italy). Amphipod samplings were carried out by scuba diving in two different periods: 1991-1992 (1st period) and 2001-2003 (2nd period). The amphipod assemblage’s structure and species composition changed over the years, as the species collected on the reef in the second period differed from those collected in the first. In addition, within the same timeframe the assemblage shows an increase in both abundance and diversity, as a result of the reef’s increase in spatial heterogeneity.
Effects of sediment management on the amphipod community off the Latium coasts (Tyrrhenian Sea) and preliminary DNA barcoding data on Ampelisca (Amphipoda)
Authors: Marusso V. , Trabucco B. , Nonnis O. , Maggi C. , Cecchetti S. , Nascetti G. , Angeletti D. , Cimmaruta R.
Published: September 2013

Macroinvertebrates are commonly used as environmental indicators in monitoring programs. Among crustaceans, amphipod communities play a relevant role in describing changes of sea bottom features, being therefore well appreciated as indicators. In this study the effects of sediment management off the Tyrrhenian coasts of Latium (Central Italy) have been assessed, using amphipod assemblages to monitor changes occurred in soft bottom areas before and after the perturbation. Results showed a variation in number of both individuals and species, with Ampelisca brevicornis (Costa, 1853), A. diadema (Costa, 1853), A. typica (Bate, 1856) and A. tenuicornis Liljeborg, 1855 as the most abundant species before sediment management, and Autonoe spiniventris Della Valle, 1893, Urothoe pulchella (Costa, 1853) and Medicorophium runcicorne Della Valle, 1893 as the most abundant ones after the perturbation. Amphipod assemblage appeared modified after sediment management showing an increase of species linked to sandy substrates. It is known that amphipod species have different degrees of sensitivity to environmental impacts but deeper studies concerning single species are problematic, also because of the limitation of a correct taxonomic classification of specimens based on morphological characters. With the aim to set up a tool for a quick and reliable assignment of the abundant genus Ampelisca, we have carried out a preliminary survey of a 658 bp (base pair) fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene, showing that some possible mis-assignments can occur based only on morphological characters.
Paola Masino: From classic to modern fantastic
Authors: Garbin Barbara
Published: September 2013

Recent studies aimed at rediscovering and redefining Italian fantastico novecentesco have unjustly ignored the work of Paola Masino. In this article, I demonstrate how Masino draws upon the tropes of fantastic literature in two of her novels to investigate female selfhood and the conflict with imposed definitions of womanhood. Masino’s treatment of the topic, however, changes radically in the few years (1931–1938) which separate the two works. From a more traditional fantastic in her first novel Monte Ignoso – rich in conventional fantastic topoi such as ghosts, animated paintings, and dramatic deaths – Masino switches to a more ironic and psychological fantastic in her last work Nascita e morte della massaia. The difference not only marks a shift in personal style but is also a testament to the transition between the 19th century Romantic fantastic and the ‘modern’ 20th-century fantastic or fantastico novecentesco that will mostly develop in the post-war decades.
Superficial Necrolytic Dermatitis in a Dog With an Insulin-Producing Pancreatic Islet Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Isidoro-Ayza M. , Lloret A. , Bardagí M. , Ferrer L. , Martínez J.
Published: September 2013

A 10-year-old dog presented with convulsive crisis and symmetrical hyperkeratotic cutaneous lesions affecting the abdomen, inguinal area, eyelids, muzzles, both pinnae, and all the paw pads. Hypoglycemia and hyperinsulinemia were the main biochemical findings. A mass 2 cm in diameter was detected within the left pancreatic lobe by ultrasonography. It was surgically removed and histologically and immunohistochemically diagnosed as an insulin-producing pancreatic islet cell carcinoma. The animal was eventually euthanized due to lack of clinical improvement. At necropsy, metastatic nodules were observed in the pancreatic lymph nodes and liver. Histopathological findings of cutaneous lesions were highly suggestive of superficial necrolytic dermatitis and were interpreted as a paraneoplastic syndrome derived from the islet cell carcinoma. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of superficial necrolytic dermatitis associated with an insulin-producing pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma in dogs.
The Impact of the REACH II Intervention on Caregivers’ Perceived Health
Authors: Basu Rashmita , Hochhalter Angie K. , Stevens Alan B.
Published: September 2013

The primary goal of the current study was to examine the impact of a caregiving support program on caregivers’ perceived health at 6 months following baseline assessment in the Resources for Enhancing Alzheimer’s Caregiver Health II (REACH II) intervention. A composite measure of perceived health was established and incorporated self-rated health, change in self-rated health, and improvement in physical health. A total of 494 participants receiving the REACH II intervention or an education-only intervention were included in this study. Mixed effect linear regression analysis was performed to examine the effect of the intervention and the factors that mediate this relationship. Findings suggest that the enhanced supportive intervention led to significant improvement in caregivers’ overall perceived health at 6 months. This effect remains significant after controlling for positive satisfaction with caregiving. Improving caregivers’ stress and burden while fostering positive rewards and appraisals may provide indirect health benefits and maintain overall health in dementia caregivers.
Professionalization of Family Business and Performance Effect
Authors: Lien Yung-Chih , Li Shaomin
Published: September 2013

This study seeks to understand the governance of post–initial public offering (IPO) family firms and its impact on performance. Using an analysis of a balanced panel data set of 205 publicly listed firms in Taiwan spanning 10 years (2,050 firm-years), we found that extensive family control has a negative impact on the post-IPO performance and that nonfamily block shareholders may divest their stockholdings in these firms to protect their investments. To sustain equity support from their block shareholders, post-IPO family firms should combine the use of family control with professional management in their corporate governance structure.
Internationalization
Authors: de Haan Haijing (Helen)
Published: September 2013

The concept of internationalization has been seen as a buzz word and container concept. The meaning of internationalization includes everything that relates to international, meanwhile internationalization is losing its meaning. This study takes a practical approach to searching for some clarification of this concept. During the period 2009-2011, 73 key actors in the field of internationalization at 16 Dutch higher education institutions (HEIs) were interviewed. Among the 14 elements identified by this study as constituting the concept of internationalization, many may be commonly known. However, the value of this study is that it ranks their significance and provides a sound base for further comparative studies in other countries. Moreover, this study compares and contrasts the differing interpretations of what the pursuit of internationalization means in research universities and universities of applied sciences and concludes that internationalization is pursued differently in the two sectors and clarifies the cause of these differences. These sectoral differences are important but have so far been rarely acknowledged in the internationalization literature. Finally, knowledge about practitioners’ perceptions of internationalization is not widely available in the education literature on internationalization. This study provides this knowledge based on the Dutch situation and argues that the current trend of theoretical development and general conceptualization in this field needs to recognize the actual practices, if our aim is to produce meaningful and feasible models/guidelines/frameworks that are recognizable by the practitioners.
Bizarre Stromal Cells in the Esophagus
Authors: Piana Simonetta , Valli Riccardo , Sacchero Roberto Igino
Published: September 2013

Esophageal bizarre stromal cells (BSCs) represent an important diagnostic pitfall, since they can closely resemble a malignancy, thus leading to a significant overtreatment. We recently encountered a case in a healthy 38-year-old man, with a normal blood count, who underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy during the follow-up of a grade I esophagitis and hiatus hernia. The endoscopy revealed an ulcerated sessile polyp that, on histology, consisted of a proliferation of round atypical discohesive cells, with a variable amount of cytoplasm, large nuclei, and prominent eosinophilic nucleoli. They were intermingled with many granulocytes and plump vessels, in a background of granulation tissue. Immunohistochemical stains with pan-cytokeratin, S100, and CD31 were negative and Ki67 stained only very few nuclei. At variance with other anatomical sites and despite the putative fibroblastic or myofibroblastic origin, BSCs in esophagus can have a striking epithelioid appearance, mimicking a carcinoma or a melanoma. Awareness of BSCs can prevent serious misdiagnoses.
Facebook: A literature review
Authors: Caers Ralf , De Feyter Tim , De Couck Marijke , Stough Talia , Vigna Claudia , Du Bois Cind
Published: September 2013

This article provides a critical review of scientific, peer reviewed, articles on Facebook between 2006 and 2012. The review shows that while there are yet numerous articles on various aspects of the social network site, there are still many gaps to be filled. Also, due to the limited scope of many articles (in sample sizes as well as in the number of countries included in the studies) and frequent changes to Facebook’s design and features, it is not only necessary to revisit many of these articles but also to integrate their research findings. The review ends with a critical discussion and directions for future research.
Assessing vocabulary learning in early childhood
Authors: Hoffman Jessica L , Teale William H , Paciga Kathleen A
Published: September 2013

There is widespread agreement with in the field of early childhood education that vocabulary is important to literacy achievement and that reading aloud can support vocabulary growth. However, there are unexplored and significant problems with the ways we assess young children’s vocabulary learning from read-alouds. This paper critically reviews the forms of vocabulary assessment commonly used with young children, examining the benefits and drawbacks of each. This review found: (a) general vocabulary measures are not practical, meaningful measures for vocabulary learning of specific words from books read aloud, (b) researcher-developed measures for specific words from books read aloud that mimic normed general vocabulary measures include serious threats to validity and reliability, and (c) other forms of measurement, such as soliciting definitions from children, are difficult to score reliably. This critical review of existing vocabulary assessments of word learning from read-alouds concludes that researchers and practitioners should carefully consider their needs for assessment data so as to choose, design and balance the uses of assessments to meet their needs for meaningful, reliable data.
Genetic parameters for milk fatty acids in Danish Holstein cattle based on SNP markers using a Bayesian approach
Authors: Krag Kristian , Poulsen Nina A , Larsen Mette K , Larsen Lotte B , Janss Luc L , Buitenhuis Bart
Published: September 2013

Background

For several years, in human nutrition there has been a focus on the proportion of unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) and saturated fatty acids (SFA) found in bovine milk. The positive health-related properties of UFA versus SFA have increased the demand for food products with a higher proportion of UFA. To be able to change the UFA and SFA content of the milk by breeding it is important to know whether there is a genetic component underlying the individual FA in the milk. We have estimated the heritability for individual FA in the milk of Danish Holstein. For this purpose we used information of SNP markers instead of the traditional pedigree relationships.

Results

Estimates of heritability were moderate within the range of 0.10 for C18:1 trans-11 to 0.34 for C8:0 and C10:0, whereas the estimates for saturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids were 0.14 and 0.18, respectively. Posterior standard deviations were in the range from 0.07 to 0.17. The correlation estimates showed a general pattern of two groups, one group mainly consisting of saturated fatty acids and one group mainly consisting of unsaturated fatty acids. The phenotypic correlation ranged from −0.95 (saturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids) to 0.99 (unsaturated fatty acids and monounsaturated fatty acids) and the genomic correlation for fatty acids ranged from −0.29 to 0.91.

Conclusions

The heritability estimates obtained in this study are in general accordance with heritability estimates from studies using pedigree data and/or a genomic relationship matrix in the context of a REML approach. SFA and UFA expressed a strong negative phenotypic correlation and a weaker genetic correlation. This is in accordance with the theory that SFA is synthesized de novo, while UFA can be regulated independently from the regulation of SFA by the feeding regime.
Transcriptomic characterization of cold acclimation in larval zebrafish
Authors: Long Yong , Song Guili , Yan Junjun , He Xiaozhen , Li Qing , Cui Zongbin
Published: September 2013

Background

Temperature is one of key environmental parameters that affect the whole life of fishes and an increasing number of studies have been directed towards understanding the mechanisms of cold acclimation in fish. However, the adaptation of larvae to cold stress and the cold-specific transcriptional alterations in fish larvae remain largely unknown. In this study, we characterized the development of cold-tolerance in zebrafish larvae and investigated the transcriptional profiles under cold stress using RNA-seq.

Results

Pre-exposure of 96 hpf zebrafish larvae to cold stress (16°C) for 24 h significantly increased their survival rates under severe cold stress (12°C). RNA-seq generated 272 million raw reads from six sequencing libraries and about 92% of the processed reads were mapped to the reference genome of zebrafish. Differential expression analysis identified 1,431 up- and 399 down-regulated genes. Gene ontology enrichment analysis of cold-induced genes revealed that RNA splicing, ribosome biogenesis and protein catabolic process were the most highly overrepresented biological processes. Spliceosome, proteasome, eukaryotic ribosome biogenesis and RNA transport were the most highly enriched pathways for genes up-regulated by cold stress. Moreover, alternative splicing of 197 genes and promoter switching of 64 genes were found to be regulated by cold stress. A shorter isoform of stk16 that lacks 67 amino acids at the N-terminus was specifically generated by skipping the second exon in cold-treated larvae. Alternative promoter usage was detected for per3 gene under cold stress, which leading to a highly up-regulated transcript encoding a truncated protein lacking the C-terminal domains.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that zebrafish larvae possess the ability to build cold-tolerance under mild low temperature and transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulations are extensively involved in this acclimation process.
Effect of exercise training and dopamine agonists in patients with uremic restless legs syndrome: a six-month randomized, partially double-blind, placebo-controlled comparative study
Authors: Giannaki Christoforos D , Sakkas Giorgos K , Karatzaferi Christina , Hadjigeorgiou Georgios M , Lavdas Eleftherios , Kyriakides Theodoros , Koutedakis Yiannis , Stefanidis Ioannis
Published: September 2013

Background

Restless Legs Syndrome is very common in hemodialysis patients however there are no comparative studies assessing the effectiveness of a non-pharmacological treatment to a classical treatment on parameters related to syndromes’ severity and quality of life.

Methods

In this randomized, partially double blind, placebo controlled trial, thirty two hemodialysis patients with restless legs syndrome were randomly assigned into three groups: 1) the exercise training group (N = 16), 2) the dopamine agonists group (ropinirole 0.25 mg/d) (N = 8) and 3) the placebo group (N = 8). The intervention programs lasted 6 months. Restless Legs Syndrome severity was assessed using the international severity scale, physical performance by a battery of tests, muscle size and composition by computed tomography, body composition by Dual Energy X Ray Absorptiometry, while depression score, sleep quality, daily sleepiness and quality of life were assessed through questionnaires.

Results

Exercise training and dopamine agonists were effective in reducing syndrome’s symptoms by 46% (P = 0.009) and 54% (P = 0.001) respectively. Within group changes revealed that both approaches significantly improved quality of life (P < 0.05), however, only the dopamine agonists significantly improved sleep quality (P = 0.009). Within group changes showed a tendency for lean body mass improvements with dopamine agonists, this reached statistical significance only with the exercise training (P = 0.014), which also reduced fat infiltration in muscles (P = 0.044) and improved physical performance (P > 0.05) in various tests. Between group changes detect significant improvements with both exercise and dopamine agonists in depression score (P = 0.003), while only the dopamine agonist treatment was able to significantly improve sleep quality, compared to exercise and placebo (P = 0.016).

Conclusions

A 6-month exercise training regime was as effective as a 6-month low dosage dopamine agonist treatment in reducing restless legs syndrome symptoms and improving depression score in uremic patients. Further research is needed in order to show whether a combination treatment could be more beneficial for the amelioration of RLS.

Trial registration

NCT00942253
Taking stock of Myanmar’s progress toward the health-related Millennium Development Goals: current roadblocks, paths ahead
Authors: Saw Yu Mon , Win Khine Lae , Shiao Laura Wen-Shuan , Thandar Moe Moe , Amiya Rachel M , Shibanuma Akira , Tun Soe , Jimba Masamine
Published: September 2013

Myanmar is a developing country with considerable humanitarian needs, rendering its pursuit of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) an especially high priority. Yet progress to date remains under-examined on key fronts. Particularly within the three health-related MDGs (MDGs 4, 5, and 6), the limited data reported point to patchy levels of achievement. This study was undertaken to provide an overview and assessment of Myanmar’s progress toward the health-related MDGs, along with possible solutions for accelerating health-related development into 2015 and beyond. The review highlights off-track progress in the spheres of maternal and child health (MDGs 4 and 5). It also shows Myanmar’s achievements toward MDG 6 targets – in the areas of HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis. Such achievements are especially notable in that Myanmar has been receiving the lowest level of official development assistance among all of the least developed countries in Asia. However, to make similar progress in MDGs 4 and 5, Myanmar needs increased investment and commitment in health. Toward moving forward with the post-2015 development agenda, Myanmar’s government also needs to take the lead in calling for attention from the World Health Organization and its global development partners to address the stagnation in health-related development progress within the country. In particular, Myanmar’s government should invest greater efforts into health system strengthening to pave the road to universal health coverage.