bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low-dose aspirin-associated upper gastric and duodenal ulcers in Japanese patients with no previous history of peptic ulcers
Authors: Kawamura Naohiko , Ito Yoshitsugu , Sasaki Makoto , Iida Akihito , Mizuno Mari , Ogasawara Naotaka , Funaki Yasushi , Kasugai Kunio
Published: November 2013

Background

Long-term administration of low-dose aspirin (LDA) is associated with a greater risk of adverse events, including gastroduodenal ulcers. The purpose of this study was to identify the risk factors for and assess the role of medication use in the development of peptic ulcer disease in Japanese patients with no history of peptic ulcers.

Methods

Consecutive outpatients receiving LDA (75 mg/day) who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy between January and December 2010 were enrolled. Clinical parameters, peptic ulcer history, concomitant drugs, the presence ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection, reason for endoscopy, and endoscopic findings were analysed.

Results

Of 226 total patients, 14 (6.2%) were endoscopically diagnosed with peptic ulcer. Age, sex, current smoking status, current alcohol consumption, endoscopic gastric mucosal atrophy, and abdominal symptoms were not significantly associated with peptic ulcers. Diabetes mellitus was more frequent (42.9% vs. 16.5%;P = 0.024) in patients with peptic ulcers than in those without peptic ulcers. Using multiple logistic regression analysis, co-treatment with anticoagulants or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) was significantly associated with increased and decreased risk for peptic ulcer, respectively (odds ratio [OR], 5.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.19 − 28.99;P = 0.03 and OR, 0.13; 95% CI, 0.02 − 0.73;P = 0.02, respectively). Co-treatment with additional antiplatelet agents, H2-receptor antagonists, angiotensin II Type 1 receptor blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase inhibitor, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was not associated with peptic ulcer development.

Conclusion

The use of PPIs reduces the risk of developing gastric or duodenal ulcers in Japanese patients taking LDA without pre-existing gastroduodenal ulcers. However, this risk is significantly increased in both patients ingesting anticoagulants and patients with diabetes. These results may help identify patients who require intensive prophylaxis against aspirin-induced peptic ulcers.
Identification of three new Alu Yb subfamilies by source tracking of recently integrated Alu Yb elements
Authors: Ahmed Musaddeque , Li Wen , Liang Ping
Published: November 2013

Background

Alu elements are the most abundant mobile elements in the human genome, with over 1 million copies and constituting more than 10% of the genome. The majority of these Alu elements were inserted into the primate genome 35 to 60 million years ago, but certain subfamilies of Alu elements are relatively very new and suspected to be still evolving. We attempted to trace the source/master copies of all human-specific members of the Alu Yb lineage using a computational approach by clustering similar Yb elements and constructing an evolutionary relation among the members of a cluster.

Results

We discovered that one copy of Yb8 at 10p14 is the source of several active Yb8 copies, which retrotransposed to generate 712 copies or 54% of all human-specific Yb8 elements. We detected eight other Yb8 elements that had generated ten or more copies, potentially acting as 'stealth drivers’. One Yb8 element at 14q32.31 seemed to act as the source copy for all Yb9 elements tested, having producing 13 active Yb9 elements, and subsequently generated a total of 131 full-length copies. We identified and characterized three new subclasses of Yb elements: Yb8a1, Yb10 and Yb11. Their copy numbers in the reference genome are 75, 8 and 16. We analysed personal genome data from the 1000 Genome Project and detected an additional 6 Yb8a1, 3 Yb10 and 15 Yb11 copies outside the reference genome. Our analysis indicates that the Yb8a1 subfamily has a similar age to Yb9 (1.93 million years and 2.15 million years, respectively), while Yb10 and Yb11 evolved only 1.4 and 0.71 million years ago, suggesting a linear evolutionary path from Yb8a1 to Yb10 and then to Yb11. Our preliminary data indicate that members in Yb10 and Yb11 are mostly polymorphic, indicating their young age.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the Yb lineage is still evolving with new subfamilies being formed. Due to their very young age and the high rate of being polymorphic, insertions from these young subfamilies are very useful genetic markers for studying human population genetics and migration patterns, and the trend for mobile element insertions in the human genome.
MicroRNA-10b overexpression promotes non-small cell lung cancer cell proliferation and invasion
Authors: Liu Yi , Li Minghui , Zhang Guoqing , Pang Zuoliang
Published: November 2013

Background

miRNAs are a class of small non-coding RNA molecules that play an important role in the pathogenesis of human diseases through negative regulation of gene expression. Although miRNA-10b (miR-10b) has been implicated in other tumors, its role in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is still unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of miR-10b in NSCLC.

Methods

Expression of miR-10b was analyzed in NSCLC cell line A549 by qRT-PCR. Cell viability was evaluated using Cell Counting Kit (CCK)-8. Cell migration and invasion were evaluated by wound healing assay and transwell assays. Cell cycle and apoptosis analyses were performed. Western blotting was used to predicate the target of miR-10b.

Results

The A549 cell line transfected with the miR-10b exhibited significantly increased proliferation, migration, and invasion capacities when compared with the control cells (P < 0.05). Krüppel-like factor 4 (KLF4) may be indirectly targeted by miR-10b during the proliferation increasing of A549 cells.

Conclusion

In this study, we found that miR-10b is a tumor enhancer in NSCLC. Thus, miR-10b may represent a potential therapeutic target for NSCLC intervention.
“Breaking news” from spermatids
Authors: Gouraud Anne , Brazeau Marc-André , Grégoire Marie-Chantal , Simard Olivier , Massonneau Julien , Arguin Mélina , Boissonneault Guylain
Published: November 2013

During the haploid phase of spermatogenesis, spermatids undergo a complex remodeling of the paternal genome involving the finely orchestrated replacement of histones by the highly-basic protamines. The associated striking change in DNA topology is characterized by a transient surge of both single- and double-stranded DNA breaks in the whole population of spermatids which are repaired before spermiation. These transient DNA breaks are now considered part of the normal differentiation program of these cells. Despite an increasing interest in the study of spermiogenesis in the last decade and the potential threat to the haploid genome, the origin of these DNA breaks still remains elusive. This review briefly outlines the current hypotheses regarding possible mechanisms that may lead to such transient DNA fragmentation including torsional stress, enzyme-induced breaks, apoptosis-like processes or oxidative stress. A better understanding of the origin of these DNA breaks will lead to further investigations on the genetic instability and mutagenic potential induced by the chromatin remodeling.
Study on the TOC concentration in raw water and HAAs in Tehran’s water treatment plant outlet
Authors: Ghoochani Mahboobeh , Rastkari Noushin , Nabizadeh Nodehi Ramin , Mahvi Amir Hossein , Nasseri Simin , Nazmara Shahrokh
Published: November 2013

A sampling has been undertaken to investigate the variation of haloacetic acids formation and nature organic matter through 81 samples were collected from three water treatment plant and three major rivers of Tehran Iran. Changes in the total organic matter (TOC), ultraviolet absorbance (UV254), specific ultraviolet absorbance (SUVA) were measured in raw water samples. Haloacetic acids concentrations were monitored using a new static headspace GC-ECD method without a manual pre-concentration in three water treatment plants. The average concentration of TOC and HAAs in three rivers and three water treatment plants in spring, summer and fall, were 4, 2.41 and 4.03 mg/L and 48.75, 43.79 and 51.07 μg/L respectively. Seasonal variation indicated that HAAs levels were much higher in spring and fall.
Analysis of 10 km swimming performance of elite male and female open-water swimmers
Authors: Vogt Pascale , Rüst Christoph Alexander , Rosemann Thomas , Lepers Romuald , Knechtle Beat
Published: November 2013

This study investigated trends in performance and sex difference in swimming speed of elite open-water swimmers at FINA 10 km competitions (i.e. World Cup races, European Championships, World Championships and Olympic Games). Swimming speed and sex difference in swimming speed of the fastest and the top ten women and men per event competing at 10 km open-water races between 2008 and 2012 were analysed using single and multi-level regression analyses. A total of 2,591 swimmers (i.e. 1,120 women and 1,471 men) finished 47 races. Swimming speed of the fastest women (1.35 ± 0.9 m/s) and men (1.45 ± 0.10 m/s) showed no changes across years. The mean sex difference in swimming speed for the fastest swimmers was 6.8 ± 2.5%. Swimming speed of the top ten female swimmers per event was 1.34 ± 0.09 m/s and remained stable across the years. The top ten male swimmers per event showed a significant decrease in swimming speed over time, even though swimming speed in the first race (i.e. January 2008, 1.40 ± 0.0 m/s) was slower than the swimming speed in the last race (i.e. October 2012, 1.50 ± 0.0 m/s) (P < 0.05). To summarize, swimming performances remained stable for the fastest elite open-water swimmers at 10 km FINA competitions between 2008 and 2012, while performances of the top ten men tended to decrease. The sex difference in swimming speed in elite ultra-swimmers (~7%) appeared smaller compared to other ultra-distance disciplines such as running. Further studies should examine how body shape and physiology of elite open-water ultra-distance swimmers influence performances.
Porphyromonas gingivalis oral infection exacerbates the development and severity of collagen-induced arthritis
Authors: Marchesan Julie Teresa , Gerow Elizabeth Ann , Schaff Riley , Taut Andrei Dan , Shin Seung-Yun , Sugai James , Brand David , Burberry Aaron , Jorns Julie , Lundy Steven Karl , Nuñez Gabriel , Fox David A , Giannobile William V
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Clinical studies suggest a direct influence of periodontal disease (PD) on serum inflammatory markers and disease assessment of patients with established rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the influence of PD on arthritis development remains unclear. This investigation was undertaken to determine the contribution of chronic PD to immune activation and development of joint inflammation using the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model.

Methods

DBA1/J mice orally infected with Porphyromonas gingivalis were administered with collagen II (CII) emulsified in complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) or incomplete Freund’s adjuvant (IFA) to induce arthritis. Arthritis development was assessed by visual scoring of paw swelling, caliper measurement of the paws, mRNA expression, paw micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) analysis, histology, and tartrate resistant acid phosphatase for osteoclast detection (TRAP)-positive immunohistochemistry. Serum and reactivated splenocytes were evaluated for cytokine expression.

Results

Mice induced for PD and/or arthritis developed periodontal disease, shown by decreased alveolar bone and alteration of mRNA expression in gingival tissues and submandibular lymph nodes compared to vehicle. P. gingivalis oral infection increased paw swelling and osteoclast numbers in mice immunized with CFA/CII. Arthritis incidence and severity were increased by P. gingivalis in mice that received IFA/CII immunizations. Increased synovitis, bone erosions, and osteoclast numbers in the paws were observed following IFA/CII immunizations in mice infected with P gingivalis. Furthermore, cytokine analysis showed a trend toward increased serum Th17/Th1 ratios when P. gingivalis infection was present in mice receiving either CFA/CII or IFA/CII immunizations. Significant cytokine increases induced by P. gingivalis oral infection were mostly associated to Th17-related cytokines of reactivated splenic cells, including IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-22 in the CFA/CII group and IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, transforming growth factor-β, IL-6 and IL-23 in the IFA/CII group.

Conclusions

Chronic P. gingivalis oral infection prior to arthritis induction increases the immune system activation favoring Th17 cell responses, and ultimately accelerating arthritis development. These results suggest that chronic oral infection may influence RA development mainly through activation of Th17-related pathways.
The Adverse Health Consequences of the Use of Multiple Performance-Enhancing Substances—A Deadly Cocktail
Authors: Perera Nimalie J. , Steinbeck Katherine S. , Shackel Nicholas
Published: November 2013

Context:

The harmful consequences of abuse of performance-enhancing substances (PESs), stimulants, and masking agents among athletes, recreational weight lifters, and physical trainers are common. However, the adverse health outcomes with severe unexpected and dramatic consequences are unrecognized or under-reported at the expense of short-term glory or body-image effects, especially in elite sports.

Objective:

We report the case of a recreational weight lifter/physical trainer to help summarize the adverse health consequences and outcomes of polypharmacy among athletes and growing subsets in our population engaged in physical/fitness training. We show that in addition to the risk inherent to “stacking” of PESs, the users are predisposed to harmful consequences, including risk of exposure to toxic contaminants.

Design and Setting:

A previously healthy man with chronic use of multiple PESs, stimulants, and masking agents presented to a tertiary-care hospital with jaundice and mild hepatitis with rapid progression into liver and multisystem organ failure. This is followed by a brief overview of the specific toxicity (arsenic) and PESs that contributed to the poor outcome in this case.

Conclusion:

Surreptitiously or self-administered cocktails of potential PESs including anabolic agents, emerging classes of GH-releasing peptides, androgen precursors, stimulants, and masking agents could lead to adverse consequences including early mortality, multisystem pathology, unmask/accelerate malignancy, and expose or predispose users to extreme danger from contaminants. This cautionary case reinforces the need to increase awareness and highlights the challenges that testing agencies, regulators, and clinicians face in the fast-developing licit/illicit trade of these products.
Degradation Properties and pH-responsive Guest-release of Cyclophanes Having Four Ester Side Chains with Terminal Choline Residues
Authors: Hayashida Osamu , Sato Daisuke
Published: November 2013

Water-soluble cationic cyclophane 1 having four ester side chains with terminal choline residues was synthesized as a pH-responsive degradable host. Alkaline hydrolysis of the ester bonds of 1 gave the corresponding tetraanionic cyclophane 2, which exhibited guest-binding affinities that led to release of the entrapped anionic guest molecules into the bulk aqueous phase.
Synthesis of Rh(I) Complexes Bearing N-p-Toluenesulfonyl-substituted N-Heterocyclic Carbenes
Authors: Sato Tetsuo , Yoshioka Daisuke , Hirose Yoichi , Oi Shuichi
Published: November 2013

We have synthesized Rh(I) complexes bearing a 1,2,4-triazol-3-ylidene or imidazol-2-ylidene substituted N-p-toluenesulfonyl (N-Ts) group. Structural characterizations of the Rh(I) complexes revealed that, because of its mesomeric and inductive electron-withdrawing effects, the N-Ts substituent increased π-accepting ability and decreased σ-donating ability of carbenes compared to N-mesityl substituents.
Layer-by-layer Nanoarchitectonics: Invention, Innovation, and Evolution
Authors: Ariga Katsuhiko , Yamauchi Yusuke , Rydzek Gaulthier , Ji Qingmin , Yonamine Yusuke , Wu Kevin C-W , Hill Jonathan P
Published: November 2013

Materials fabrication with nanoscale structural precision based on bottom-up-type self-assembly has become more important in various current disciplines in chemistry including materials chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, colloid and surface chemistry, and supramolecular chemistry. Although the design of new materials based on nanoscale self-assembly is anticipated as a key concept, preparing complete three-dimensional structures at nanoscale precision remains a difficult target using current technologies. Rather, dimension-reduced approaches such as layering of two-dimensional nanostructures into precisely controlled lamellar nanomaterials are currently achievable. In particular, layer-by-layer (LbL) assembly is known as a highly versatile method for fabrication of controlled layered structures from various kinds of component materials using very simple, inexpensive, and rapid procedures. Therefore, fabrication of multilayer films through the LbL deposition process has attracted growing interest from various research communities. The high versatility and flexibility of LbL assembly is continuously creating new concepts, new materials, new procedures, and new applications. In this highlight review, we focus on nanoarchitectonics by LbL assembly. After an initial introduction on the invention and a brief history of the LbL assembly technique, innovations and the evolution of the technique are described based mainly on recent examples, which are categorized into two sections: (i) developments in methodology (technical, material, and phenomenological aspects with expansion of concept) and (ii) progress in applications (physical, chemical/biochemical, and biomedical applications).
The net return from animal activity in agro-ecosystems: trading off benefits from ecosystem services against costs from crop damage
Authors: Luck Gary W
Published: November 2013

Animals provide benefits to agriculture through the provision of ecosystem services, but also inflict costs such as damaging crops. These benefits and costs are mostly examined independently, rather than comparing the trade-offs of animal activity in the same system and quantifying the net return from beneficial minus detrimental activities. Here, I examine the net return associated with the activity of seed-eating birds in almond orchards by quantifying the economic costs and benefits of bird consumption of almonds. Pre-harvest, the consumption of harvestable almonds by birds cost growers AUD$57.50 ha-1 when averaged across the entire plantation. Post-harvest, the same bird species provide an ecosystem service by removing mummified nuts from trees that growers otherwise need to remove to reduce threats from fungal infection or insect pest infestations. The value of this ecosystem service ranged from AUD$82.50 ha-1–$332.50 ha-1 based on the replacement costs of mechanical or manual removal of mummified nuts, respectively. Hence, bird consumption of almonds yielded a positive net return of AUD$25–$275 ha-1 averaged across the entire plantation. However, bird activity varied spatially resulting in positive net returns occurring primarily at the edges of crops where activity was higher, compared to negative net returns in crop interiors. Moreover, partial mummy nut removal by birds meant that bird activity may only reduce costs to growers rather than replace these costs completely. Similar cost-benefit trade-offs exist across nature, and quantifying net returns can better inform land management decisions such as when to control pests or promote ecosystem service provision.
Accumulation of oocytes and/or embryos by vitrification: a new strategy for managing poor responder patients undergoing pre implantation diagnosis
Authors: Chatziparasidou Alexia , Nijs Martine , Moisidou Martha , Chara Oraiopoulou , Ioakeimidou Christina , Pappas Christos , Christoforidis Nicos
Published: November 2013

Background: Low (or poor) responder patients are women who require large doses of stimulation medications and produce less than an optimal number of oocytes during IVF cycles. Low responder patients produce few oocytes and embryos, which significantly reduces their chances for success in a preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) cycle. Accumulation of vitrified oocytes or embryos before the actual PGD cycle is a possible strategy that might increase patient’s chances for a healthy pregnancy.

Aim of the study: This retrospective study evaluates the efficacy of a PGD program in low responder patients after repeated ovarian stimulation cycles with cumulative vitrification of oocytes and embryos.

Methods: Over a period of 30 months, 13 patients entering the PGD program were identified as poor responders after their first ovarian stimulation. These patients started a PGD cycle for one of the following indications: history of recurrent implantation failure (n=1), cystic fibrosis (n=1), X-linked microtubular myopathy (n=1), recurrent miscarriages (n=5), Duchene muscular dystrophy (n=1), chromosomal translocation (n=1) and high sperm aneuploidy (n=1).  After multiple ovarian hormonal stimulations patients had either all mature oocytes (Group A; 3 patients) or all of their day 2 embryos vitrified (group B; 10 patients). Mean total number of oocyte collections per patient was 2.3 (range: 2 - 5 cycles).

Results: In the actual PGD cycle, all vitrified oocytes from group A patients were warmed and underwent intra cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) followed by culture up to day 3. For group B patients all vitrified day 2 embryos were warmed and cultured overnight. On day 3 of culture, all embryos from Group A and B had blastomere biopsy followed by genetic analysis. In group A, 20 embryos were found suitable for biopsy and genetic analysis; at least one healthy embryo was available for transfer for each patient.  For group B, 72 embryos in total were available for biopsy and PGD.  All patients, except one, had at least one healthy day 5 embryo for transfer (mean number of 2.1 embryos per transfer). Nine patients had a clinical pregnancy; 7 patients delivered a healthy baby.

Conclusion: Low responder patients entering a PGD program might increase their chances for a healthy pregnancy by repeat ovarian stimulation in combination with cumulative oocyte or embryo vitrification.
A Word about the Constitutional Terminology
Authors: Чиркин Вениамин , CHirkin Vyeniamin
Published: November 2013

The article discusses the many inaccuracies and mistakes, even established in the world and the Russian constitutional terminology. Sometimes some of the language is so firmly established that we don’t even notice some constitutional imperfections. In preparing the draft constitutions should take into account the new realities of our time.
Constitutional Legal Relations: Impact on Legal System
Authors: Mironov Dmitriy
Published: November 2013

In science of law mark out role of the constitutionalism, of the constitutional values, court’s constitutionalism in assure of development legal system. The solution of the task is bound up with role of the constitutional relations. This article focuses on some aspects of the problem.
Realization of Constitutional Principles of Family Law in the Russian Legislation
Authors: Шелютто Марина , SHyelyutto Marina
Published: November 2013

The article attends to the legislative decisions, which are not consistent with constitutional principles of family law — gender equality, equal parental responsibility for maintenance and upbringing of their child, proportionality in restriction on family rights, protection of matrimonial property.
Geoscience of Climate and Energy 13. The Environmental Hydrogeology of the Oil Sands, Lower Athabasca Area, Alberta
Authors: Miall Andrew D.
Published: November 2013

Shallow fresh groundwater and deep saline groundwater are used together with surface water in the extraction of bitumen from the Athabasca Oil Sands both in the surface mining and in situ operations. However, increasing efficiencies in processing technologies have reduced water use substantially and currently at least 75% of the water used in most operations is recycled water. Much concern has been expressed regarding contamination of surface waters by seepage from tailings ponds, but hydrogeological studies indicate that this is not happening; that seepage capture design is effective. Oil sands mining and in situ project licensing and operation regulations include Environmental Impact Assessments that mandate considerable hydrogeological measurement and monitoring work. However, little of this is independently evaluated for accuracy or synthesized and interpreted for the public. Recent changes in Alberta environmental regulation, including the establishment of the Alberta Environmental Monitoring Management Board (in October 2012) are expected to bring new transparency to environmental management of Oil Sands operations.SOMMAIREOn utilise conjointement des eaux douce de faibles profondeur, des eaux souterraines salines profondes avec des eaux de surface dans l'extraction du bitume des sables bitumineux de l'Athabasca, tant dans le procédé d’extraction in situ qu’en surface.  Par ailleurs, l’accroissement de l'efficacité des technologies de traitement a considérablement réduit la consommation d'eau et, à l’heure actuelle, au moins 75% de l'eau utilisée dans la majorité des opérations est de l'eau recyclée.  Beaucoup d’inquiétude a été exprimée concernant la contamination des eaux de surface par la percolation des eaux des bassins de décantation des résidus, mais des études hydrogéologiques indiquent que ce n'est pas le cas, et que le concept de capture des infiltrations est efficace.  L’octroi de permis d’exploitation ainsi que les procédés d’exploitation des sables bitumineux, par extraction en surface ou in situ, comportent des évaluations d’impact sur les milieux de vie, est assorti de mandats élaborés de mesures hydrologiques et de suivi.  Cela dit, peu de ces mesures sont évaluées de manière indépendante quant à leur exactitude, leur mise en forme et leur interprétation pour le grand public.  Les changements récents dans la réglementation environnementale en Alberta, y compris la mise en place du Alberta Environmental Monitoring Management Board (en Octobre 2012) devraient aboutir à une nouvelle transparence de la gestion environnementale de l'exploitation des sables bitumineux.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.12789/geocanj.2013.40.016
Carbonic Anhydrase IX Expression is Associated with Favorable Prognostic Factors in Small Intestinal Carcinoma
Authors: Gu Mi Jin , Kwon Kye Won
Published: November 2013

Tumor hypoxia is associated with more aggressive behavior and resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Carbonic anhydrase IX (CA9) level increases under hypoxia and is related to poor prognostic factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of CA9 and to identify its prognostic significance in small intestinal carcinomas (SICs). CA9 expression was observed in 36% (63/175) of SICs. CA9 expression showed significant correlation with well- and moderately differentiated tumors compared with poorly differentiated tumors ( p=0.039), tumors with no lymph node metastasis ( p=0.005), and lower stage carcinomas ( p=0.009). CA9 expression showed an inverse correlation with perineural invasion ( p=0.021) and lymphatic invasion ( p=0.022). No significant correlation was observed between CA9 expression and gross type, histological type, pathological tumor (pT) classification, vascular invasion, pancreas invasion, and retroperitoneal seeding. SICs with CA9 overexpression showed better overall survival compared with those with no or weak CA9 expression ( p=0.048). In the multivariate analysis, poorly differentiated SICs ( p<0.001) and SICs with lymph node metastasis ( p=0.002) were independent poor prognostic factors. CA9 expression in SICs is more frequently associated with good prognostic markers and better overall survival; however, it is not an independent prognostic factor.
Vanilloid Receptor-1 (TRPV1) Expression and Function in the Vasculature of the Rat
Authors: Tóth Attila , Czikora Ágnes , Pásztor Enikő T. , Dienes Beatrix , Bai Péter , Csernoch László , Rutkai Ibolya , Csató Viktória , Mányiné Ivetta S. , Pórszász Róbert , Édes István , Papp Zoltán , Boczán Judit
Published: November 2013

Transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels are emerging in vascular biology. In particular, the expression of the capsaicin receptor (TRPV1) was reported in vascular smooth muscle cells. This study characterized the arteriolar TRPV1 function and expression in the rat. TRPV1 mRNA was expressed in various vascular beds. Six commercially available antibodies were tested for TRPV1 specificity. Two of them were specific (immunostaining was abolished by blocking peptides) for neuronal TRPV1 and one recognized vascular TRPV1. TRPV1 was expressed in blood vessels in the skeletal muscle, mesenteric and skin tissues, as well as in the aorta and carotid arteries. TRPV1 expression was found to be regulated at the level of individual blood vessels, where some vessels expressed, while others did not express TRPV1 in the same tissue sections. Capsaicin (a TRPV1 agonist) evoked constrictions in skeletal muscle arteries and in the carotid artery, but had no effect on the femoral and mesenteric arteries or the aorta. In blood vessels, TRPV1 expression was detected in most of the large arteries, but there were striking differences at level of the small arteries. TRPV1 activity was suppressed in some isolated arteries. This tightly regulated expression and function suggests a physiological role for vascular TRPV1.
The Spillover Effects of Prototype Brand Transgressions on Country Image and Related Brands
Authors: Magnusson Peter , Krishnan Vijaykumar , Westjohn Stanford A. , Zdravkovic Srdan
Published: November 2013

Country-of-origin research has primarily held the view that country-level beliefs influence product-level beliefs. In this study, the authors investigate whether the relationship may also move in the opposite direction. Grounded in prototype theory and schema change theory, this study examines shifts in consumer attitudes toward a country as a result of a brand transgression. The authors confirm the conceptual framework using experimental methods. The results offer evidence of a relationship in which product-level beliefs affect country-level beliefs, a finding that contrasts with the majority of country-of-origin research. The effects of brand transgressions are moderated by the degree of prototypicality of the transgressing brand and the level of development of the transgressing brand's home country.
Hormesis and vitagenes in aging and longevity: mitochondrial control and hormonal regulation
Authors: Cornelius Carolin , Graziano Antonio , Calabrese Edward J. , Calabrese Vittorio
Published: November 2013

Average life span has increased because of medical and environmental factors, but maximal life span remains unchanged. Understanding the mechanisms of aging will help to reduce age-related morbidity and facilitate healthy aging. Unlike female menopause, which is accompanied by an abrupt and permanent cessation of ovarian function (both folliculogenesis and estradiol production), male aging does not result in either cessation of testosterone production or infertility. Although the circulating serum testosterone concentration does decline with aging, in most men this decrease is small, resulting in levels that are generally within the normal range. Age-related hypogonadism has been referred to as andropause or late-onset hypogonadism (LOH), with LOH considered to be the most suitable term for this condition. Hormone therapy (HT) trials have caused both apprehension and confusion about the overall risks and benefits associated with HT treatment. During aging, a gradual decline in the potency of the heat shock response occurs, and this may prevent the repair of protein damage. Thus, the interest in developing pharmacological agents capable of inducing stress responses is growing within the broad frame of hormesis, which underlie strategies for optimal patient treatment of numerous diseases. Vitagenes encode for heat shock proteins, thioredoxin, and sirtuin protein systems. Nutritional antioxidants have recently been demonstrated to be neuroprotective through the activation of hormetic pathways, including vitagenes. Here, we focus on possible signaling mechanisms involved in the activation of vitagenes resulting in enhanced defense against bioenergetic defects leading to degeneration and cell death with consequent impact on longevity processes.
Cerebroplacental Doppler ratio and placental histopathological features in pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction
Authors: Spinillo Arsenio , Gardella Barbara , Bariselli Silvia , Alfei Alessandro , Silini Enrico Maria , Bello Barbara Dal
Published: November 2013

Objective: To correlate placental pathologic lesions, as defined by the Society for Pediatric Pathology, to the severity of the ratio of the pulsatility Doppler index (PI) of the fetal middle cerebral artery to that of the umbilical artery (cerebroplacental ratio, CPR).

Study design: A cohort-study of 176 singleton pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction (FGR).

Results: The mean values of gestational age, birth weight and CPR of the entire cohort were 33.9±3.6 weeks, 1552±561 g, and 1.33±0.68, respectively. In ordered logistic regression analysis, after adjustment for potential confounders, muscularised arteries (Odds Ratio [OR]=3.14; 95% confidence intervals [CI]=1.58–6.28, P=0.001), mural hypertrophy (OR=2.35; 95% CI=1.26–4.4, P=0.008), immature intermediate trophoblast (OR=2.0; 95% CI=1.07–3.71, P=0.03) and maternal vascular underperfusion (OR=2.32; 95% CI=1.25–4.23, P=0.007) were the only parameters associated with severity of CPR.

Conclusions: The correlation between placental histological findings indicating maternal underperfusion and placental occlusion suggest that forced centralization of fetal circulation in FGR could be at least partially attributable to the hemodynamic consequences of increased placental vascular resistance.
Impact of sex on perinatal mortality and morbidity in twins
Authors: Steen Emma Elsmén , Källén Karin , Maršál Karel , Norman Mikael , Hellström-Westas Lena
Published: November 2013

Objective: Twin studies offer opportunities to investigate mechanisms underlying sex-associated differences in perinatal outcomes. The objective of the study was to investigate sex-related differences in perinatal complications.

Study design: A cohort of 16,045 twin pregnancies – 32,090 twins – was explored for obstetric complications, perinatal and infant mortality, and neonatal morbidities.

Results: Twin pregnancies with a female fetus had an increased risk for preeclampsia, but otherwise there were no pregnancy complications associated with fetal sex. After birth, female-female twins had lower early neonatal and infant mortality, and lower risk for respiratory morbidities than male-male twins at all gestational ages. In unlike-sexed twin pairs, very preterm males had higher respiratory morbidity than females and, females were at higher risk for being growth restricted.

Conclusion: Male-male twins have higher respiratory morbidity and neonatal mortality than female-female twins. In unliked-sexed twin pairs, the males seem to be protected by having a female co-twin.
No association between exposure to perfluorinated compounds and congenital cryptorchidism: a nested case–control study among 215 boys from Denmark and Finland
Authors: Vesterholm Jensen Dorte , Christensen Jeppe , Virtanen Helena E , Skakkebæk Niels E , Main Katharina M , Toppari Jorma , Veje Christine W , Andersson Anna-Maria , Nielsen Flemming , Grandjean Philippe , Jensen Tina Kold
Published: November 2013

Geographical differences in the occurrence of diseases in male reproductive organs, including malformation in reproductive tract, between Denmark and Finland have been reported. The reason for these differences is unknown, but differences in exposure to chemicals with endocrine-disrupting abilities have been suggested. Among these chemicals are perfluoro-alkylated substances (PFASs), a group of water- and grease-repellent chemicals used in outdoor clothes, cookware, food packaging, and textiles. In this study, we, therefore, investigated differences in PFAS exposure levels between Denmark and Finland and the association between cord blood PFAS levels and congenital cryptorchidism. Boys from a joint ongoing prospective birth cohort study were included. We analyzed PFAS levels in cord blood serum samples collected from 29 Danish boys with congenital cryptorchidism, 30 healthy Danish matched controls recruited from 1997 to 2001, 30 Finnish cases, and 78 Finnish healthy matched controls recruited from 1997 to 1999. Additionally, 48 Finnish cases recruited from 2000 to 2002 were included. Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) were detected in all the 215 Danish and Finnish cord blood samples with significantly higher levels being observed in the Danish samples (medians: PFOA, 2.6 ng/ml and PFOS, 9.1 ng/ml) than in the Finnish samples (medians: PFOA, 2.1 ng/ml and PFOS, 5.2 ng/ml). We found no associations between cord blood PFOA and PFOS levels and congenital cryptorchidism after adjustment for confounders. Our data indicate that women in Denmark and Finland are generally exposed to PFOA and PFOS but there are differences in exposure levels between countries. We found no statistically significant association between cord blood PFOA and PFOS levels and congenital cryptorchidism; however, our study was small and larger studies are warranted.
Age at Menarche and Age at First Sexual Intercourse: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Marino Jennifer L. , Skinner S. Rachel , Doherty Dorota A. , Rosenthal Susan L. , Cooper Robbins Spring C. , Cannon Jeffrey , Hickey Martha
Published: November 2013

OBJECTIVE:

Younger age at menarche (AAM) may put girls at risk for earlier first sexual intercourse (FSI). Young age at FSI has far-reaching negative outcomes. We describe the longitudinal relationship between AAM and FSI in a large prospective birth cohort.

METHODS:

AAM was collected from 554 girls from the Western Australia (Raine) Pregnancy Cohort Study, prospectively from age 10 or retrospectively at age 14. Age at FSI was collected at ages 17 and 20. Cox regression models describe likelihood of FSI by age and years since menarche for younger (<12 years) and older (≥14 years) AAM relative to average AAM (12–13 years).

RESULTS:

Girls with younger AAM and average AAM were equally likely to have FSI by age 16 (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 0.90 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.60–1.35]). FSI by age 16 was less likely among girls with older AAM than those with average AAM (aHR: 0.35 [95% CI: 0.17–0.72]). Girls with younger AAM had a longer median interval between menarche and FSI than girls with average AAM (5.0 years [interquartile range: 4.4–8.5 years] vs 3.7 years [interquartile range: 2.4–5.3 years]). Those with younger AAM were less likely to report FSI within 4 years of menarche than those with average AAM (0–2 years aHR: 0.04 [95% CI: 0.01–0.31]; 2–4 years aHR: 0.36 [95% CI: 0.23–0.55]). By age 20, 429 girls (77.4%) reported FSI.

CONCLUSIONS:

Younger AAM was not a risk factor for younger age at FSI in this cohort.
Sexual Risk Taking and Bullying Among Adolescents
Authors: Holt Melissa K. , Matjasko Jennifer L. , Espelage Dorothy , Reid Gerald , Koenig Brian
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND:

Psychological and educational correlates of bullying have been explored extensively. However, little information is available about the link between bullying and sexual risk-taking behaviors among adolescents, though for some youth it may be that sexual risk taking emerges in response to bullying involvement. Associations for both heterosexual youth and those who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or questioning (GLBTQ) should be considered, as should the influence of victimization exposures in other domains. Accordingly, associations among bullying, other victimization forms, and sexual risk-taking behaviors were examined among adolescents with particular consideration to sexual orientation.

METHODS:

A sample of 8687 high school students completed the Dane County Youth Survey, a countywide survey administered high school students from 24 schools. Participants were asked questions about their bullying involvement and sexual risk-taking behaviors (ie, engaging in casual sex and having sex while under the influence of alcohol or drugs).

RESULTS:

Results indicated that bullies and bully-victims were more likely to engage in casual sex and sex under the influence. In multivariate analyses, these findings held even after controlling for demographic characteristics and victimization exposures in other domains, but primarily for heterosexual youth.

CONCLUSIONS:

Bullies and bully-victims engaged in more sexual risk-taking behaviors, although patterns of association varied by sexual orientation. Bullying prevention programs and programs aimed at reducing unhealthy sexual practices should consider a broader stress and coping perspective and address the possible link between the stress of bullying involvement and maladaptive coping responses.
Resuscitation of Preterm Neonates With Limited Versus High Oxygen Strategy
Authors: Kapadia Vishal S. , Chalak Lina F. , Sparks John E. , Allen James R. , Savani Rashmin C. , Wyckoff Myra H.
Published: November 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To determine whether a limited oxygen strategy (LOX) versus a high oxygen strategy (HOX) during delivery room resuscitation decreases oxidative stress in preterm neonates.

METHODS:

A randomized trial of neonates of 24 to 34 weeks’ gestational age (GA) who received resuscitation was performed. LOX neonates received room air as the initial resuscitation gas, and fraction of inspired oxygen (Fio2) was adjusted by 10% every 30 seconds to achieve target preductal oxygen saturations (Spo2) as described by the 2010 Neonatal Resuscitation Program guidelines. HOX neonates received 100% O2 as initial resuscitation gas, and Fio2 was adjusted by 10% to keep preductal Spo2 at 85% to 94%. Total hydroperoxide (TH), biological antioxidant potential (BAP), and the oxidative balance ratio (BAP/TH) were analyzed in cord blood and the first hour of life. Secondary outcomes included delivery room interventions, respiratory support on NICU admission, and short-term morbidities.

RESULTS:

Forty-four LOX (GA: 30 ± 3 weeks; birth weight: 1678 ± 634 g) and 44 HOX (GA: 30 ± 3 weeks; birth weight: 1463 ± 606 g) neonates were included. LOX decreased integrated excess oxygen (∑Fio2 × time [min]) in the delivery room compared with HOX (401 ± 151 vs 662 ± 249; P < .01). At 1 hour of life, BAP/TH was 60% higher for LOX versus HOX neonates (13 [9–16] vs 8 [6–9]) µM/U.CARR, P < .01). LOX decreased ventilator days (3 [0–64] vs 8 [0–96]; P < .05) and reduced the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (7% vs 25%; P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

LOX is feasible and results in less oxygen exposure, lower oxidative stress, and decreased respiratory morbidities and thus is a reasonable alternative for resuscitation of preterm neonates in the delivery room.
A Collaborative System to Improve Compartment Syndrome Recognition
Authors: Schaffzin Joshua K. , Prichard Heather , Bisig Jennifer , Gainor Peggy , Wolfe Krista , Solan Lauren G. , Webster Laurie , McCarthy James J.
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is a rare but serious complication of extremity injury that can cause permanent damage or death. ACS development is variable and unpredictable, and delay in recognition or treatment of ACS can lead to significant morbidity. Our objective was to create a reliable system for recognition of patients at risk and monitoring for ACS that could withstand frequent provider turnover.

METHODS:

Using the Model for Improvement, we identified key drivers and failure modes for 2 processes: resident and nurse practitioner proper order entry and bedside nurse proper documentation of monitoring. Interventions were tested in frequent plan–do–study–act cycles. Effective interventions were used in combination to test for sustainability.

RESULTS:

Proper order entry increased from 23% at baseline to 90%. Proper documentation for patients with correct orders increased from 15% to 70%. Individual interventions, including pocket card distribution, electronic medical record order set, and direct discussion by team leaders, were associated with improvement among residents but were not sustained with team turnover. Incorporating all 4 individual interventions into the on-boarding process for residents produced consistent success. Nursing documentation improved with education and maintenance of proper order entry.

CONCLUSIONS:

We built a reliable, sustainable system to recognize and monitor patients at risk for ACS. Interventions designed to minimally disrupt existing workflows were individually associated with improvement. We achieved sustainability through staff turnover when we incorporated the interventions into routine orientation for new staff. Hospitals can use existing orders and protocols to sustain surveillance for ACS and other acute conditions.
Gun Violence Trends in Movies
Authors: Bushman Brad J. , Jamieson Patrick E. , Weitz Ilana , Romer Daniel
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND:

Many scientific studies have shown that the mere presence of guns can increase aggression, an effect dubbed the “weapons effect.” The current research examines a potential source of the weapons effect: guns depicted in top-selling films.

METHODS:

Trained coders identified the presence of violence in each 5-minute film segment for one-half of the top 30 films since 1950 and the presence of guns in violent segments since 1985, the first full year the PG-13 rating (age 13+) was used. PG-13–rated films are among the top-selling films and are especially attractive to youth.

RESULTS:

Results found that violence in films has more than doubled since 1950, and gun violence in PG-13–rated films has more than tripled since 1985. When the PG-13 rating was introduced, these films contained about as much gun violence as G (general audiences) and PG (parental guidance suggested for young children) films. Since 2009, PG-13–rated films have contained as much or more violence as R-rated films (age 17+) films.

CONCLUSIONS:

Even if youth do not use guns, these findings suggest that they are exposed to increasing gun violence in top-selling films. By including guns in violent scenes, film producers may be strengthening the weapons effect and providing youth with scripts for using guns. These findings are concerning because many scientific studies have shown that violent films can increase aggression. Violent films are also now easily accessible to youth (eg, on the Internet and cable). This research suggests that the presence of weapons in films might amplify the effects of violent films on aggression.