bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Músculo adutor do polegar e força de preensão palmar: potenciais métodos de avaliação nutricional em pacientes ambulatoriais com acidente vascular encefálico
Authors: Oliveira Débora Rocha , Frangella Vera Silvia
Published: September 2015

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar e comparar a efetividade de diferentes métodos utilizados para avaliação nutricional de pacientes ambulatoriais hemiplégicos que sofreram acidente vascular encefálico. Métodos: Estudo transversal realizado com pacientes adultos e idosos, de ambos os gêneros, atendidos em um centro de reabilitação. As variáveis analisadas foram medidas antropométricas, bioimpedância, força de preensão palmar e espessura do músculo adutor do polegar. Utilizou-se o teste do χ2 de Pearson para verificar a associação entre as variáveis analisadas com nível de significância α = 5%. Resultados: Ao avaliar a associação entre os indicadores de massa muscular, observou-se que a força de preensão palmar em ambos os gêneros foi positivamente correlacionada com a circunferência muscular do braço (p = 0,0196) e massa magra (p = 0,0002). Já a massa gordurosa mensurada pelo método de bioimpedância apresentou relação inversa significante com a preensão palmar (r = −0,3879). A espessura do músculo adutor do polegar apresentou associação significante com massa magra (p = 0,0052) e preensão palmar (p = 0,0024). Conclusão: Neste estudo, a força de preensão palmar e espessura do músculo adutor do polegar foram bem correlacionadas com as mensurações determinadas pela antropometria e pela bioimpedância. Os resultados apontam a aplicabilidade da dinamometria e da espessura do músculo adutor do polegar na prática clínica como métodos de avaliação nutricional para essa população, especialmente idosos, pois detectam alterações funcionais não captadas por outros parâmetros em curto prazo, sendo importantes para identificação precoce do risco nutricional.
An outbreak of norovirus infection in a long-term care facility in Brazil
Authors: Menezes Fernando Gatti de , Correa Vanessa Maria da Silva de Poli , Franco Fábio Gazelato de Mello , Ribeiro Miriam Ikeda , Cardoso Maria Fátima dos Santos , Morillo Simone Guadagnucci , Carmona Rita de Cássia Compagnoli , Timenetsky Maria do Carmo Sampaio Tavares , Correa Luci , Pasternak Jacyr
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe a norovirus outbreak in a Brazilian long-term care facility from July 8 to 29, 2005. Methods: In the first 48 to 72 hours after onset of symptoms in inpatients and employees, the main infection control strategies were staff education, emphasis on hand washing, implementing contact precautions up to 48-72 hours after resolution of symptoms, complete cleaning of the rooms and exclusion of symptomatic employees from work until 48-72 hours after resolution of their symptoms. Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the norovirus infections were described based on chart review. Results: The incidence among inpatients and employees was 41.3% and 16.25%, respectively. The main symptom was diarrhea, affecting 100% of inpatients and employees. Forty-four percent of specimens were positive by RIDASCREEN® Norovirus analyses, and identified as norovirus genogroup GII. Seventy percent of inpatients were women and their age range was 51-98 years. Inpatients had in average two comorbid conditions – 87.3% with cardiovascular or chronic pulmonary condition and 47.6% with dementia. There was not relapse or death. Conclusions: The early infection-control measures associated to surveillance are required to keep long-term care facilities free of noroviruses and to protect those who are most vulnerable.
Administration of BAY 41-2272 prevents bladder dysfunction in nitric-oxide deficient rats
Authors: D'Ancona Carlos Arturo Levi , Mónica Fabíola Zakia Taufic , Reges Ricardo , Cohen David , Silva Fabio Henrique da , Nucci Gilberto De , Antunes Edson
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the protective effects of BAY 41-2272, a soluble guanylate cyclase activator, on changes in cystometric parameters in rats deficient in nitric oxide (NO). Methods: Rats were divided into the following groups: (a) control; (b) DMSO; (c) L-NAME; (d) BAY 41-2272 alone; (e) L-NAME + BAY 41-2272. The NO synthase blocker L-NAME (20 mg/rat/day) was given in drinking water concomitantly or not with BAY 41-2272 (10 mg/kg/day, given by gavage). Results: Chronic L-NAME treatment markedly increased the mean arterial blood pressure, and co-treatment with BAY 41-2272 nearly reversed L-NAME-induced rise on mean arterial blood pressure. Non-void contractions were significantly increased in L-NAME group (0.90 ± 0.1 number/minute) compared with either DMSO or control group (0.49 ± 0.1 number/minute), which were prevented by co-treatment with BAY 41-2272 (0.56 ± 025 number/minute; p < 0.05). The threshold and peak pressure increased by 70 and 44%, respectively, after chronic L-NAME treatment, while co-treatment with BAY 41-2272 largely attenuated both effects (27 and 22% increase, respectively). The frequency of micturition cycles decreased by about of 50% in L-NAME-treated rats compared with control animals, and co-treatment with BAY 41-2272 normalized this parameter. Conclusions: Our data show that long-term oral administration of BAY 41-2272 counteracts the bladder dysfunction seen in NO-deficient rats, indicating that restoration of the NO-cGMP pathway by this compound may be of beneficial value to treat bladder symptoms.
Congenital malformations in newborns of alcoholic mothers
Authors: Mesquita Maria dos Anjos , Segre Conceição Aparecida de Mattos
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the presence of fetal alcohol syndrome, other alcohol-related congenital defects, and/or neurodevelopment disorders in newborns of mothers who consumed alcohol during gestation. Methods: In a public maternity in the city of São Paulo, 1,964 puerperal women were interviewed and 654 had consumed alcohol at some point during gestation. The newborns were clinically and laboratorially examined in order to identify the occurrence of fetal alcohol syndrome, congenital defects or neurodevelopment disorders related to alcohol. Results: Three children were found with fetal alcohol syndrome (1.5/1,000 live births), 6 with congenital defects related to alcohol (3.0/1,000 live births), and 67 with developmental disorders related to alcohol (34.1/1,000 live births). The congenital malformations found in these children were thin or absent corpus callosum, brain cyst, asymmetry of the cerebral ventricles, meningomyelocele, cleft lip, anteverted nose, low-set ears, megaureter, hydronephrosis, polydactyly, congenital clubfoot, aphalangia of the toes, cryptorchidism, and hypospadia. conclusion: Newborns of mothers who consumed alcohol may have congenital malformations of various organs and systems, and early diagnosis is fundamental for a probable and occasional more effective resolution and progress.
Pancreas transplantation: an overview
Authors: David Andre Ibrahim , Ferraz-Neto Ben-Hur , Levino Fernando , Meirelles Junior Roberto Ferreira , Silva Filho Álvaro Pacheco e
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACT Pancreas transplantation is the only treatment able to reestablish normal glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels in insulin-dependent diabetic patients without the use of exogenous insulin. The evolution of pancreas transplantation in treatment of diabetes was determined by advances in the fields of surgical technique, organ preservation and immunosuppressants. The main complication leading to graft loss is technical failure followed by acute or chronic rejection. Technical failure means graft loss within the first three months following transplantation due to vascular thrombosis (50%), pancreatitis (20%), infection (18%), fistula (6.5%) and bleeding (2.4%). Immunological complications still affect 30% of patients, and rejection is the cause of graft loss in 10% of cases. Chronic rejection is the most common late complication. Cardiovascular diseases are the most common causes of late mortality in pancreas transplantation, so it remains the most effective treatment for type 1 diabetes patients. There is a significant improvement in quality of life and in patient's survival rates. The development of islet transplantation could eliminate or minimize surgical complications and immunosuppression.
Apoptosis and in vivo models to study the molecules related to this phenomenon
Authors: Luchs Adriana , Pantaleão Claudia
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACT Apoptosis or programmed cell death is a physiological process, essential for eliminating cells in excess or that are no longer necessary to the organism, acting on tissue homeostasis, although the phenomenon is also involved in pathological conditions. Apoptosis promotes activation of biochemical pathways inside cells called caspase pathway, of the proteins responsible for the cleavage of several cell substrates, leading to cell death. Antiapoptotic members of the Bcl-2 family (B cell CLL/lymphoma 2), that belong to the intrinsic route of the activation of caspases, such as Bcl-xL (extra-large B-cell lymphoma) and Bcl-w (Bcl-2-like 2), act predominantly to prevent that pro-apoptotic members, such as Bax (Bcl-2-associated X protein) and Bak (Bcl-2 relative bak) lead to cell death. Antiapoptotic molecules are considered potentially oncogenic. Murine models are known to be valuable systems for the experimental analysis of oncogenes in vivo, and for the identification of pharmacological targets for cancer and to assess antitumor therapies. Given the importance of tumorigenesis studies on the immune responses to cancer and the possibility of investigating the participation of antiapoptotic molecules in tumor progression in vivo, the development of new models may be platforms for studies on tumorigenesis, immune antitumor responses, investigation of the ectopic expression of antiapoptotic molecules and immunotherapies for tumors.
Patients' anxiety before cardiac catheterization
Authors: Buzatto Leandro Loureiro , Zanei Suely Sueko Viski
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify researches related to anxiety and strategies to reduce it in patients who are in the pre-cardiac catheterization period. Methods: A bibliographic research was carried out in the on line databases of PubMed, MedLine, CINAHL, LILACS and SciELO, from 1997 to 2009 in MedLine and from 1999 to 2009 in the others databases. The boolean expressions “and” and “or” has been used with the descriptors in Portuguese and in English. The inclusion of discerning was related about the presence, level and workable of the anxiety from the period of pre-cardiac catheterization. Results: Coping most of 17 researches selected were in American scientific publications, with experimental-descriptive studies. The possibilities of intercurrence and/or complications during and post-procedure, diagnostic, possibility of bad prognostic, being alone during the waiting, the first time submission the procedure, lost information and/or orientation and long time waiting could cause anxiety in pre-cardiac catheterization. Maintenance of escort and family alongside the patient, information adapted to the patient understanding level, overcoming traumas and difficulties with a multiprofessional approach, pharmacologic and non pharmacologic therapies were strategies to reduce the anxiety. Conclusions: The nurses are responsible to provide a humanized assistance to offer a fast recuperation, minimize traumas of the hospitalization and the procedure. The knowledge of the causes and the strategies are fundamental to reduce the level of anxiety in pre-catheterization cardiac.
Predicting Ovarian Activity in Women Affected by Early Breast Cancer: A Meta-Analysis-Based Nomogram
Authors: Barnabei Agnese , Strigari Lidia , Marchetti Paolo , Sini Valentina , De Vecchis Liana , Corsello Salvatore Maria , Torino Francesco
Published: September 2015

Background.

The assessment of ovarian reserve in premenopausal women requiring anticancer gonadotoxic therapy can help clinicians address some challenging issues, including the probability of future pregnancies after the end of treatment. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and age can reliably estimate ovarian reserve. A limited number of studies have evaluated AMH and age as predictors of residual ovarian reserve following cytotoxic chemotherapy in breast cancer patients.

Materials and Methods.

To conduct a meta-analysis of published data on this topic, we searched the medical literature using the key MeSH terms “amenorrhea/chemically induced,” “ovarian reserve,” “anti-Mullerian hormone/blood,” and “breast neoplasms/drug therapy.” Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statements guided the search strategy. U.K. National Health Service guidelines were used in abstracting data and assessing data quality and validity. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC/AUC) analysis was used to evaluate the predictive utility of baseline AMH and age model.

Results.

The meta-analysis of data pooled from the selected studies showed that both age and serum AMH are reliable predictors of post-treatment ovarian activity in breast cancer patients. Importantly, ROC/AUC analysis indicated AMH was a more reliable predictor of post-treatment ovarian activity in patients aged younger than 40 years (0.753; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.602–0.904) compared with those older than 40 years (0.678; 95% CI: 0.491–0.866). We generated a nomogram describing the correlations among age, pretreatment AMH serum levels, and ovarian activity at 1 year from the end of chemotherapy.

Conclusion.

After the ongoing validation process, the proposed nomogram may help clinicians discern premenopausal women requiring cytotoxic chemotherapy who should be considered high priority for fertility preservation counseling and procedures.

Implications for Practice:

In general, a nomogram helps clinicians better visualize a specific risk for a single patient. In premenopausal women affected by early breast cancer who need adjuvant cytotoxic regimens, the proposed nomogram—based on the assessment of pretreatment age and anti-Müllerian hormone serum levels—can assess the personal probability of maintaining ovarian activity at 1 year from the end of chemotherapy. The ongoing validation process is also evaluating other key factors contributing to post-treatment ovarian activity (i.e., type of cytotoxic regimen) and will confirm the nomogram's reliability and clinical utility.
OMWS: A Web Service Interface for Ecological Niche Modelling
Authors: Giovanni Renato De , Torres Erik , Amaral Rafael Burlamaqui , Blanquer Ignacio , Rebello Vinod , Canhos Vanderlei Perez
Published: September 2015

Ecological niche modelling (ENM) experiments often involve a high number of tasks to be performed. Such tasks may consume a significant amount of computing resources and take a long time to complete, especially when using personal computers. OMWS is a Web service interface that allows more powerful computing back-ends to be remotely exploited by other applications to carry out ENM tasks. Its latest version includes a new operation that can be used to specify complex workflows in a single request, adding the possibility of using workflow management systems on parallel computing back-end. In this paper we describe the OMWS protocol and compare its most recent version with the previous one by running the same ENM experiment using two functionally equivalent clients, each designed for one of the OMWS interface versions. Different back-end configurations were used to investigate how the performance scales for each protocol version when more processing power is made available. Results show that the new version outperforms (in a factor of 2) the previous one when more computing resources are used.
The use of patch testing for the diagnosis of contact dermatitis: an Albanian experience
Authors: Fida Monika , Topi Geriolda , Qirko Etleva , Kellici Suela , Shehu Erjona , Dervishi Orjana , Vasili Ermira
Published: September 2015

Introduction: The daily increase of using chemical, aromatic and cosmetic products has been associated with significant increase in frequency of skin diseases such as eczemas and contact dermatitis (CD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of patch testing (PT) for the diagnosis of CD and provide current data on the frequency of sensitization to various contact allergens among patients with CD in the Albanian population.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed all consecutive patients clinically suspected for CD during the period February 2010 – February 2011, in the outpatient setting. PT was done using Baseline European Series consisting of 31 allergens. Risk factors (age, gender, occupation and place of residence) and sensitization to various contact allergens were evaluated.  Results: In total, 193 patients clinically suspected for CD were included in the study and underwent PT. The highest prevalence of CD was found in the age-group of 31-40 years (32.6%), with a statistically significant difference between other age-groups (X2 = 141.2, p<0.01). Positive PT results with at least one allergen were seen in 144 (74.6 %) patients suspected for CD. The two most common allergens were nickel and potassium dichromate. Construction worker and hairdresser were the most affected professions. Females had a chance of 1.8 times higher for having a positive patch test result compare to males (OR = 1.8; 95% CI 0.91 – 3.39).Conclusion: Determination of allergens that cause contact dermatitis is a necessity not only to confirm the correct diagnosis, but also for the qualitative treatment and prevention of the disease. Patch testing, even though an old method, still remain a valuable and non-invasive approach to determine the causes of contact dermatitis.
Lacrimal gland tumors and their influence on tear production
Authors: Brovkina Alevtina Fedorovna , Steshenko Olga Nikolayevna , Nechesnyuk Svetlana Yuryevna
Published: September 2015

Tear production was measured pre treatment and at different intervals post treatment for different lacrimal gland tumors. The differences in tear production was correlated with the histopathology of the tumor and the treatment whether it was excisional or combined treatment
Features of ophthalmic inflammatory diseases results of a federal study
Authors: Lebedev Oleg Ivanovich , Surov Aleksandr Vladimirovich , Akentyeva Yevgeniya Vitalyevna
Published: September 2015

A retrospective study of 3346 clinical records of patients with the diagnosis “Uveitis” (ICD-10 codes - H 20, H 22, H 30) hospitalized in the “Clinical ophthalmologic hospital named after V. P. Vykhodtsev” in Omsk from 2005 to 2012 was performed. The prevalence of uveitis decreased by a factor of 3.2 in comparison with the prevalence measured from 1995-2004 data. We also found a statistically significant decrease in the incidence of the recurrent forms of uveitis Compared to the time frame of 1995-2004, the immunoblot (West-ernblot) test was use more frequently. A comparative analysis of laboratory diagnostic methods was carried out. An increase in application frequency of a method for etiology verification - immunoblot (Westernblot) - is noted. A comparison between the prevalence of iridocyclitis and that of chorioretinitis in various age groups was studied. The results showedthat iridocyclitis is more common in young working age population.
Approach to cataract surgery in patients with irregular astigmatism due to pronounced corneal pathology
Authors: Rakhmanov Vyacheslav Vladimirovich , Khripun Kirill Vladimirovich , Astakhov Sergey Yuryevich , Ramazanova Ajshat Magomedovna
Published: September 2015

In the article, the results of cataract surgery results in a patient with irregular astigmatism due to corneal comorbidity are presented. The authors demonstrate the efficacy and the safety of the method of residual astigmatism correction with the implantation of an additional pseudophakic IOL Sulcoflex (Rayner, Great Britain).
Características Agronômicas de seis Cultivares de Bananeiras tipo Prata
Authors: Silva Tânia Santos , Donato Sérgio Luiz Rodrigues , Rodrigues Filho Vagner Alves , Padilha Júnior Milton Celso , Silva Yago Cândido Pereira da
Published: September 2015

A despeito da ampla aceitação comercial da 'Prata-Anã' é necessário o aumento do portfólio de cultivares tipo Prata para os agricultores. Objetivou-se avaliar características agronômicas de bananeiras Prata em dois ciclos de produção. Utilizou-se delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, com seis tratamentos, ‘Prata-Anã’, ‘Maravilha’, ‘BRS Platina', 'BRS Fhia-18', 'Fhia-18' e 'JV42-135', cinco repetições e quatro plantas úteis por parcela. A ‘Maravilha’ é a mais produtiva, com maior massa das pencas, maior massa, comprimento e diâmetro do fruto; 'JV42-135' apresenta maior porte, menos pencas e frutos; 'BRS Fhia-18' é menos vigorosa; ‘BRS Platina’ assemelha-se mais à genitora, ‘Prata-Anã’.
Keadilan Jender dan Sanksi atas Istri dalam Hukum Formal Keluarga Islam
Authors: Septiani Rina
Published: September 2015

The objective of this research is to prove that regulations on the imposition of sanctions from gender based justice perspective has yet to bring justice. In addition, regulations concerning sanction charge are still accommodating pro- visions set forth in fiqh laws. In practice, judges have toiled on women protec- tion; however, as long as the regulations remain unchanged, justice for women cant be truly upheld. This issue has actually sparred discrepancies among scholars. This research focuses on the exploration of some issues, such as in what do- mestic issues women of Islamic family will be liable for sanctions and how such sanctions will be analyzed from gender based justice perspective. This research found out that there is equality in Islamic law. It can be seen from the sanctions charged to women in the case of nushuz, divorce, and khuluk even though, in reality, there are some decisions made by Religious Court, which do not reflect justice values especially for women if it is reviewed from gender perspective in Indonesia. This research is a qualitative study corroborated with descriptive analysis based on textual reviews. Methods adopted for this re- search is that of normative legal research.Kata Kunci: Kekerasan, Nushuz, kesetaraan, keadilan, jender
Laboratory Evaluation of Sorptive Filtration Media Mixtures for Targeted Pollutant Removals from Simulated Stormwater
Authors: Prabhukumar Giridhar , Bhupal Gurmanpreet Singh , Pagilla Krishna R.
Published: September 2015

Urban stormwater pollutants including nutrients, trace metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), total suspended solids (TSS) and indicator microorganisms (E. coli) were the target pollutants in this study. Their simultaneous removal from synthetic stormwater using different sorptive media was investigated through laboratory‐scale column experiments. The media considered for testing were calcite (C), sand (S), zeolite (Z) and iron filings (Fe0). These media are easily/commercially available, environmentally benign, long lasting (non‐biodegradable), highly permeable and effective in removing multiple target pollutants. Based on individual media testing, three different mixed media compositions were selected (1) C‐Z‐S, (2) C‐S‐Fe0 and (3) C‐Z‐S‐Fe0, for simultaneous removal of target pollutants using column experiments. The mixed media composition, C‐Z‐S‐Fe0 showed significantly better simultaneous removal of all the target pollutants as compared to the other two compositions. These compositions can be tailored to meet site‐specific stormwater pollutant removal in a passive in‐ground sorptive media filter.
Characterization of Stormwater Runoff from a Light Rail Transit Area
Authors: Sajjad Raja Umer , Kim Kyoung Jin , Memon Sheeraz , Sukhbaatar Chinzorig , Paule Ma. Cristina , Lee Bum‐Yeon , Lee Chang‐Hee
Published: September 2015

The monitoring of stormwater runoff from Light Rail Transit (LRT) facilities is insufficient in many regions around the world. In this study, runoff quality and quantity were monitored during operational and non‐operational LRT phases during 2010‐2013. The event mean concentration (EMC) of pollutants showed little statistical variability during both phases. The antecedent dry day (ADD) showed a strong to moderate positive correlation with most pollutant EMCs during the non‐operational phase. The existence and magnitude of the first flush from LRT runoff was found to be similar to those from other transportation land uses. The comparison of LRT runoff data with an adjacent road bridge site showed that the pollutant EMC and unit load were 2 to 9 times higher from the road bridge. It was suggested that LRT automated operation and the elevated track makes this transportation mode a viable option for the management of non‐point source pollution.
On the fractal heat transfer problems with local fractional calculus
Authors: Zhao Duan , Yang Xiao-Jun , Srivastava H.M.
Published: September 2015

This article investigates several fractal heat transfer problems from the
local fractional calculus viewpoint. At low and high excess temperatures,
the linear and nonlinear heat-transfer equations are presented. The
non-homogeneous linear and nonlinear oscillator equations in fractal heat
transfer are discussed. The results are adopted to present the behaviors of
the heat transfer in fractal media.
Regulation of De Novo Adipocyte Differentiation Through Cross Talk Between Adipocytes and Preadipocytes
Authors: Challa Tenagne D. , Straub Leon G. , Balaz Miroslav , Kiehlmann Elke , Donze Olivier , Rudofsky Gottfried , Ukropec Jozef , Ukropcova Barbara , Wolfrum Christian
Published: September 2015

There are many known adipokines differentially secreted from the different adipose depots; however, their paracrine and autocrine effects on de novo adipocyte formation are not fully understood. By developing a coculture method of preadipocytes with primary subcutaneous and visceral adipocytes or tissue explants, we could show that the total secretome inhibited preadipocyte differentiation. Using a proteomics approach with fractionated secretome samples, we were able to identify a spectrum of factors that either positively or negatively affected adipocyte formation. Among the secreted factors, Slc27a1, Vim, Cp, and Ecm1 promoted adipocyte differentiation, whereas Got2, Cpq, interleukin-1 receptor-like 1/ST2-IL-33, Sparc, and Lgals3bp decreased adipocyte differentiation. In human subcutaneous adipocytes of lean subjects, obese subjects, and obese subjects with type 2 diabetes, Vim and Slc27a1 expression was negatively correlated with adipocyte size and BMI and positively correlated with insulin sensitivity, while Sparc and Got2 showed the opposite trend. Furthermore, we demonstrate that Slc27a1 was increased upon weight loss in morbidly obese patients, while Sparc expression was reduced. Taken together, our findings identify adipokines that regulate adipocyte differentiation through positive or negative paracrine and autocrine feedback loop mechanisms, which could potentially affect whole-body energy metabolism.
Antiaging Gene Klotho Attenuates Pancreatic β-Cell Apoptosis in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Lin Yi , Sun Zhongjie
Published: September 2015

Apoptosis is the major cause of death of insulin-producing β-cells in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Klotho is a recently discovered antiaging gene. We found that the Klotho gene is expressed in pancreatic β-cells. Interestingly, halplodeficiency of Klotho (KL+/−) exacerbated streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes (a model of T1DM), including hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance, diminished islet insulin storage, and increased apoptotic β-cells. Conversely, in vivo β-cell–specific expression of mouse Klotho gene (mKL) attenuated β-cell apoptosis and prevented STZ-induced diabetes. mKL promoted cell adhesion to collagen IV, increased FAK and Akt phosphorylation, and inhibited caspase 3 cleavage in cultured MIN6 β-cells. mKL abolished STZ- and TNFα-induced inhibition of FAK and Akt phosphorylation, caspase 3 cleavage, and β-cell apoptosis. These promoting effects of Klotho can be abolished by blocking integrin β1. Therefore, these cell-based studies indicated that Klotho protected β-cells by inhibiting β-cell apoptosis through activation of the integrin β1-FAK/Akt pathway, leading to inhibition of caspase 3 cleavage. In an autoimmune T1DM model (NOD), we showed that in vivo β-cell–specific expression of mKL improved glucose tolerance, attenuated β-cell apoptosis, enhanced insulin storage in β-cells, and increased plasma insulin levels. The beneficial effect of Klotho gene delivery is likely due to attenuation of T-cell infiltration in pancreatic islets in NOD mice. Overall, our results demonstrate for the first time that Klotho protected β-cells in T1DM via attenuating apoptosis.
The Use of Glyburide Compared With Other Sulfonylureas and the Risk of Cancer in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Tuccori Marco , Wu Jennifer W. , Yin Hui , Majdan Agnieszka , Azoulay Laurent
Published: September 2015

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the use of glyburide is associated with an increased risk of cancer compared with the use of other second-generation sulfonylureas among patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The U.K. Clinical Practice Research Datalink was used to conduct a cohort study among 52,600 patients newly prescribed glyburide or other second-generation sulfonylureas between 1 January 1988 and 31 July 2013. A time-dependent Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs of any cancer associated with the use of glyburide compared with the use of second-generation sulfonylureas. Secondary analyses were conducted to determine whether the association varied with cumulative duration of use and cumulative dose (expressed as defined daily dose [DDD]).

RESULTS

During 280,288 person-years of follow-up, 4,105 patients were given a new diagnosis of cancer (incidence rate 14.6 per 1,000 person-years). Overall, when compared with the use of other second-generation sulfonylureas, the use of glyburide was associated with a nonsignificant increased risk of any cancer (HR 1.09 [95% CI 0.98–1.22]). In secondary analyses, duration- and dose-response relationships were observed, with longer cumulative durations and cumulative doses associated with an increased risk of any cancer (>36 months: HR 1.21 [95% CI: 1.03–1.42]; >1,096 DDDs: HR 1.27 [95% CI 1.06–1.51]).

CONCLUSIONS

In this population-based cohort study, longer cumulative durations and higher cumulative doses of glyburide were associated with an increased risk of cancer.
Excavations at Site C North, Kalambo Falls, Zambia: New Insights into the Mode 2/3 Transition in South-Central Africa
Authors: Barham Lawrence , Tooth Stephen , Duller Geoff A.T. , Plater Andrew J. , Turner Simon
Published: September 2015

We report on the results of small-scale excavations at the archaeological site of Kalambo Falls, northern Zambia. The site has long been known for its stratified succession of Stone Age horizons, in particular those representing the late Acheulean (Mode 2) and early Middle Stone Age (Mode 3). Previous efforts to date these horizons have provided, at best, minimum radiometric ages. The absence of a firm chronology for the site has limited its potential contribution to our understanding of the process of technological change in the Middle Pleistocene of south-central Africa. The aim of the excavations was to collect samples for luminescence dating that bracketed archaeological horizons, and to establish the sedimentary and palaeoenvironmental contexts of the deposits. Four sedimentary packages were identified with the oldest containing Mode 2 and Mode 3 horizons. In this paper we consider the implications of the luminescence ages for the archaeological record at Kalambo Falls, and place them in a regional context. The reworking and preservation of the archaeological horizons is interpreted as the result of successive phases of meander migration and aggradation. Limited pollen evidence suggests a persistent floodplain palaeoenvironment with intermittent swamp forest and adjacent valley woodland, while mineral magnetic susceptibility data support an interpretation of river flow variability without any significant change in sediment provenance. The dynamics of the fluvial system cannot as yet be linked directly with regional climate change. The age range of ~500–300 ka for the oldest sedimentary package places the Mode 2/3 succession firmly in the Middle Pleistocene, and contributes to an expanding African record of technological innovation before the evolution of Homo sapiens.
Milk not Meat: The Role of Milk amongst the Khoe Peoples of Southern Africa
Authors: Lombard Marlize , Parsons Isabelle
Published: September 2015

Historical sources emphasise the different uses of livestock in southern African Khoe societies. Here we review the role of milk gained from livestock amongst the Khoe, as recorded over the last few centuries, and demonstrate that it was of greater subsistence value than the meat of livestock. In addition, we highlight the recorded technological, social and ritual importance of milk amongst the Khoe. Finally, attention is drawn to recent genetic research that suggests the dependence of southern African Later Stone Age herders on milk.
Inadequate Homocysteine Metabolism: A Theory of Depression
Authors: Farah Andrew
Published: September 2015

Over the past 100 years, theories regarding the etiology of major depression have appeared as the proverbial blind man’s interpretation of the elephant. It is now possible to discuss depression in terms of neuroendocrine dysregulation, differences in neuroanatomy, inflammatory response, a gene-environment interaction, or in purely psychological terms—and without any contradiction in the evidence. Indeed, a disorder as complex and variable as depression is expected to have multiple risk factors and etiologic influences. Yet, all roads eventually lead to a functional shortage of monoamines, and the monoamine hypothesis remains the basis of treatment for millions of patients. Elevated homocysteine (HCY) has long been recognized as a risk factor for major depressive disorder (MDD), and many neurologic and psychiatric conditions; however, a full understanding of HCY metabolism and monoamine synthesis indicates that perhaps HCY elevation in the central nervous system is the driving force behind MDD. The HCY theory argues that a genetically based inability to optimally metabolize HCY leads to inadequate supplies of monoamines, particularly in the presence of psychosocial stress, and results in the clinical syndrome of MDD.

[
Psychiatr Ann
. 2015;45(9):469–472.]
Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease Involves a Cysteinyl Leukotriene–Driven IL-33–Mediated Mast Cell Activation Pathway
Authors: Liu Tao , Kanaoka Yoshihide , Barrett Nora A. , Feng Chunli , Garofalo Denise , Lai Juying , Buchheit Kathleen , Bhattacharya Neil , Laidlaw Tanya M. , Katz Howard R. , Boyce Joshua A.
Published: September 2015

Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD), a severe eosinophilic inflammatory disorder of the airways, involves overproduction of cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLTs), activation of airway mast cells (MCs), and bronchoconstriction in response to nonselective cyclooxygenase inhibitors that deplete homeostatic PGE2. The mechanistic basis for MC activation in this disorder is unknown. We now demonstrate that patients with AERD have markedly increased epithelial expression of the alarmin-like cytokine IL-33 in nasal polyps, as compared with polyps from aspirin-tolerant control subjects. The murine model of AERD, generated by dust mite priming of mice lacking microsomal PGE2 synthase (ptges−/− mice), shows a similar upregulation of IL-33 protein in the airway epithelium, along with marked eosinophilic bronchovascular inflammation. Deletion of leukotriene C4 synthase, the terminal enzyme needed to generate cysLTs, eliminates the increased IL-33 content of the ptges−/− lungs and sharply reduces pulmonary eosinophilia and basal secretion of MC products. Challenges of dust mite–primed ptges−/− mice with lysine aspirin induce IL-33–dependent MC activation and bronchoconstriction. Thus, IL-33 is a component of a cysLT-driven innate type 2 immune response that drives pathogenic MC activation and contributes substantially to AERD pathogenesis.
Endotoxemia Induces IκBβ/NF-κB–Dependent Endothelin-1 Expression in Hepatic Macrophages
Authors: McKenna Sarah , Gossling Megan , Bugarini Alejandro , Hill Elizabeth , Anderson Aimee L. , Rancourt Raymond C. , Balasubramaniyan Natarajan , El Kasmi Karim C. , Wright Clyde J.
Published: September 2015

Elevated serum concentrations of the vasoactive protein endothelin-1 (ET-1) occur in the setting of systemic inflammatory response syndrome and contribute to distal organ hypoperfusion and pulmonary hypertension. Thus, understanding the cellular source and transcriptional regulation of systemic inflammatory stress-induced ET-1 expression may reveal therapeutic targets. Using a murine model of LPS-induced septic shock, we demonstrate that the hepatic macrophage is the primary source of elevated circulating ET-1, rather than the endothelium as previously proposed. Using pharmacologic inhibitors, ET-1 promoter luciferase assays, and by silencing and overexpressing NF-κB inhibitory protein IκB expression, we demonstrate that LPS-induced ET-1 expression occurs via an NF-κB–dependent pathway. Finally, the specific role of the cRel/p65 inhibitory protein IκBβ was evaluated. Although cytoplasmic IκBβ inhibits activity of cRel-containing NF-κB dimers, nuclear IκBβ stabilizes NF-κB/DNA binding and enhances gene expression. Using targeted pharmacologic therapies to specifically prevent IκBβ/NF-κB signaling, as well as mice genetically modified to overexpress IκBβ, we show that nuclear IκBβ is both necessary and sufficient to drive LPS-induced ET-1 expression. Together, these results mechanistically link the innate immune response mediated by IκBβ/NF-κB to ET-1 expression and potentially reveal therapeutic targets for patients with Gram-negative septic shock.
Biased Immunoglobulin Light Chain Gene Usage in the Shark
Authors: Iacoangeli Anna , Lui Anita , Naik Ushma , Ohta Yuko , Flajnik Martin , Hsu Ellen
Published: September 2015

This study of a large family of κ L chain clusters in nurse shark completes the characterization of its classical Ig gene content (two H chain isotypes, μ and ω, and four L chain isotypes, κ, λ, σ, and σ-2). The shark κ clusters are minigenes consisting of a simple VL-JL-CL array, where V to J recombination occurs over an ∼500-bp interval, and functional clusters are widely separated by at least 100 kb. Six out of ∼39 κ clusters are prerearranged in the germline (germline joined). Unlike the complex gene organization and multistep assembly process of Ig in mammals, each shark Ig rearrangement, somatic or in the germline, appears to be an independent event localized to the minigene. This study examined the expression of functional, nonproductive, and sterile transcripts of the κ clusters compared with the other three L chain isotypes. κ cluster usage was investigated in young sharks, and a skewed pattern of split gene expression was observed, one similar in functional and nonproductive rearrangements. These results show that the individual activation of the spatially distant κ clusters is nonrandom. Although both split and germline-joined κ genes are expressed, the latter are prominent in young animals and wane with age. We speculate that, in the shark, the differential activation of the multiple isotypes can be advantageously used in receptor editing.
Evaluation of two loop-mediated isothermal amplification methods for the detection of Salmonella Enteritidis and Listeria monocytogenes in artificially contaminated ready-to eat fresh products
Authors: Birmpa Angeliki , Kalogeropoulos Konstantinos , Kokkinos Petros , Vantarakis Apostolos
Published: September 2015

In the present study, the effectiveness of two loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assays was evaluated. Samples of romaine lettuce, strawberries, cherry tomatoes, green onions and sour berries were inoculated with known dilutions (100-108 CFU/g of product) of S. Enteritidis and L. monocytogenes. With LAMP, assay pathogens can be detected in less than 60 min. The limits of detection of S. Enteritidis and L. monocytogenes depended on the food sample tested and on the presence of enrichment step. After enrichment steps, all food samples were found positive even at low initial pathogen levels. The developed LAMP assays are expected to become a valuable, robust, innovative, powerful, cheap and fast monitoring tool, which can be extensively used for routine analysis, and screening of contaminated foods by the food industry and the Public Food Health Authorities.
Об оценках мощности некоторых классов регулярных языков
Authors: Alexandrov D E
Published: September 2015

Рассмотрен метод модификации регулярных выражений для решения проблемы "экспоненциального взрыва" числа состояний конечного автомата, распознающего множество регулярных языков, задаваемых объединением регулярных выражений вида $.{*}$R$_1.{*}$R$_2.{*}$, где R$_1$ и R$_2$ - произвольные регулярные выражения. Приведены оценки функций роста регулярных выражений из некоторого подкласса указанного класса выражений. Предложен способ оценки относительного роста числа слов регулярного языка, задаваемого парой регулярных выражений, при модификации этих выражений. Проанализирована практическая эффективность данного метода модификации выражений и предложенного способа оценки применительно к регулярным выражениям системы Snort.
Пример компакта несчетного характера, для которого пространства $\exp_n(X)\setminus X$ нормальны
Authors: Ivanov Aleksandr Vladimirovich
Published: September 2015

В предположении аксиомы Йенсена построен компакт $X$
несчетного характера, для которого пространство
$\exp_n(X)\setminus X$ нормально при каждом $n$.
Тем самым доказано, что теорема Архангельского-Комбарова
о счетности характера компакта, квадрат которого нормален
вне диагонали, не может быть "наивно" перенесена на
нормальные функторы конечной степени.
Библиография: 13 названий.
О конечных группах, факторизуемых обобщенно субнормальными подгруппами взаимно простых индексов
Authors: Semenchuk Vlalimir Nikolaevich , Veliasnitski Vasilii Fedorovich
Published: September 2015

Работа посвящена изучению конечных групп,
факторизуемых обобщенно субнормальными подгруппами
взаимно простых индексов.
Библиография: 8 названий.
Анализ зависимости конечнократных аппроксимаций равновесной матрицы плотности гармонического осциллятора и функции Вигнера от правила квантования
Authors: Borisov Leonid Andreevich , Orlov Yurii Nikolayevich
Published: September 2015

Для произвольной статистической смеси $\tau$-квантований получено явное выражение для главных частей равновесной матрицы плотности и соответствующей функции Вигнера гармонического осциллятора в приближении фейнмановских аппроксимаций с использованием теоремы Чернова. На примере гамильтониана осциллятора определена скорость сходимости аппроксимации средних значений операторов наблюдаемых при увеличении порядка аппроксимаций и в зависимости от правила квантования. Показано, что сходимость аппроксимаций среднего значения оператора энергии не является равномерной по параметру Гиббса.
Обобщенные кинетические уравнения для плотных газов и жидкостей в методе неравновесного статистического оператора Зубарева и статистике Реньи
Authors: Kostrobii Petr Petrovich , Viznovych Aleksandra Vasil'evna , Markiv Bogdan Bogdanovich , Tokarchuk Mikhail Vasil'evich
Published: September 2015

Для описания кинетических процессов в газах и жидкостях, далеких от равновесия, на основании метода неравновесного статистического оператора Зубарева и принципа максимума энтропии Реньи получены неравновесный статистический оператор и обобщенные кинетические уравнения для неравновесных одночастичной и двухчастичной функций распределения. Рассмотрено $q$-обобщение уравнения Лиувилля и методом неравновесного статистического оператора получено его общее решение.
Закон больших чисел Я. Бернулли и усиленный закон больших чисел
Authors: Chibisov Dmitrii Mikhailovich
Published: September 2015

Обсуждается взаимосвязь между законом больших чисел и усиленным законом больших чисел для сумм независимых случайных величин. Сопоставляется математическое содержание этих законов и их связь с задачами математической статистики.
Nitrogen and Potassium Topdressing in Maize Intercropped with Brachiaria Ruziziensis
Authors: Seidel Edleusa P. , Reis Willian , Bartzen Bruna , Knaul Joice , Cassiano Alisson D. , Fredrich Jonatan E.
Published: September 2015

Maize has been intercropped with different forage species, especially Brachiaria spp., for different purposes and at different times: after maize harvest, as a food source for cattle; and exclusively for the production of straw to maintain a no-tillage system, which is the main purpose of intercropping in western Paraná. The objective was to investigate the effects of different rates of nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) topdressing on grain yield and components of yield for maize intercropped with Brachiaria ruziziensis. The experiment was conducted in Paraná State, Brazil. The experiment used a completely randomized block factorial design (4 × 3) with four replications. Treatments for the first factor consisted of sowing maize intercropped with Brachiaria ruziziensis with four rates of N topdressing (0, 80, 100 and 120 kg ha−1) applied as urea. For the second factor were rates of K topdressing (0, 30 and 50 kg ha−1), applied in the form of potassium chloride. During at sowing fertilization was performed with of 30, 26 and 50 kg ha−1 of N, phosphorus and K, respectively. The following variables were evaluated: plant height, first ear height, stem diameter, number of tillers per plant, mass of 1,000 grains, grain yield. The results showed that application of N topdressing promoted increased grain yield of maize intercropped with Brachiaria ruziziensis until N rate of 85 kg ha−1. Isolated application of K did not influence the variables studied.
Investigating Integer Restrictions in Linear Programming
Authors: Edwards Thomas G. , Chelst Kenneth R. , Principato Angela M. , Wilhelm Thad L.
Published: September 2015

Restricting variables to integer values can lead to interesting classroom dialogues.
The Role of History in Debates Regarding the Boundaries of Medical Confidentiality and Privacy
Authors: Ferguson Angus H.
Published: September 2015

Medical confidentiality and privacy are often given a long pedigree as core issues in medical ethics that can be traced back to the Hippocratic Oath. However, it is only recently that focused historical work has begun to examine and analyse in greater detail how the boundaries of medical
confidentiality and privacy have evolved within a variety of cultural contexts during the modern period. Such research illustrates the ways in which this process has been shaped by a range of issues, individuals, interest groups and events; and been influenced as much by pragmatic concerns
as by theoretical arguments. This paper presents a case for the merits of promoting further historical work on these topics. It suggests that greater support for, and recognition of, historical research has a number of potential benefits. These include providing meaningful context to current
interdisciplinary discussions of the collection and use of patient information; improving knowledge and understanding of the foundations on which current policy and practice are built; and promoting public engagement and understanding of the evolution of medical confidentiality and privacy
as complex public interest issues.
An Overview of the Change Management Process and Examples of Software to Help Organizations Effectively Manage Change
Authors: Santos Noema “Amy” , Quilliam Will
Published: September 2015

Every organization undergoes change on a continual basis and must understand how to manage the change process. This article overviews change management and discusses software packages and other tools that can help organizations manage the inevitable changes which occur frequently. It also examines risks and control objectives associated with change. It concludes that organizations often overlook proper change management techniques and can benefit by the ideas discussed in this article.