bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Clinical Diagnosis of Stroke with Computed Tomographic Scan of the Brain
Authors: Islam Sirajee Shafiqul , Rahman Aminur , Alahi Md Manzur , Ali Md Ahmed , Kafiluddin Md , Kafiluddin Md , Amin Md Pervez , Ahmad Quamruddin , Elyas Dewan Md , Karim Md Ziaul , Wadud Mohammad Shaheen , Islam Md Rafiqul
Published: November 2013

Background and purpose: Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in both developed as well as developing countries. The clinical presentation of stroke depending on the site and extent of lesions. For the management purpose it is important to know whether we are dealing with a bleed or an infarct. Methodology: Computed Tomography (CT scan) is available most of the tertiary level hospitals in Bangladesh. This study was carried out to compare clinical diagnosis of stroke with Computed tomography (CT) scan findings in ascertaining the type of stroke (hemorrhagic or ischemic). Materials and methods: This cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in the Department of Neurology, Rajshahi Medical College Hospital during the period of January 2010 to December 2010. Total 200 stroke patients were selected by purposive sampling technique on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria as the study sample. . CT brain scan was done for all the patients. The clinical diagnosis was compared with the results of CT scan and performance test was done. Results: Clinically 67 patients were diagnosed as hemorrhagic stroke and 133 patients were diagnosed as ischemic stroke. Out of these 67 hemorrhagic patients CT scan revealed that 56 patients had intracerebral hemorrhage, 5 had infarct, 4 had subarachnoid hemorrhage and 2 had space occupying lesions in the brain. Out of these 133 ischemic patients CT scan revealed that 119 patients had infarction, 6 had intracerebral hemorrhage and 8 had space occupying lesions in the brain. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of clinical diagnosis of hemorrhagic stroke were 90.32%, 92.03%, 83.58%, 92.02% and 91.5% respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy of clinical diagnosis of ischemic stroke were 95.96%, 81.58%, 89.47%, 92.53% and 90.5% respectively. Conclusion: The diagnosis of stroke in clinically with high accuracy, but perform a CT scan will help to confirm and differentiate to type stroke. Thus CT scan should be done in all cases stroke to specify the diagnosis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjn.v28i2.17179 Bangladesh Journal of Neuroscience 2012; Vol. 28 (2): 96-101
Posterior Decompression with Fusion & Fixation by Pedicle Screw and Rod of Thoraco Lumbar Spine: A Study of 15 Cases
Authors: Nath Haradhan Deb , Barua Kanak Kanti , Rahman Zillur , Amin Md Rezaul , Das Malay Kumar , Kumar Ranjit
Published: November 2013

Background & Objectives: Thoraco-lumbar fracture is one of the common problems in spinal injury patients. Its early management can prevent complication after injury and can improve neurological function. The treatment plan of unstable fracture is controversial. Methods: The study was carried out at the department of neurosurgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University from June 2010 to July 2011 among the patients admitted with thoraco-lumbar spine fracture. Results: A total number of 15 patients with thoracolumbar spine fracture were included in the study. Among the 15 patients, 13(86.66%) were male. The highest number of patients were in age group of 1-20(40%) and 21-40(40%) years. The commonest cause of Thoraco-lumbar spine injuries were fall from height which was 8(53.33%) in number. The commonest site of injury was L1 fracture in 4(60%) patients. It was documented that bladder dysfunction and lower limb weakness were the commonest sign. It was evident that, 10(66.70%) and 4(26.66%) of the patients were partially and completely improved after surgery respectively and 3(10%) of patients had wound infection. Conclusion: Thoraco-lumbar spine fracture with incomplete injury, early surgery can improve many of the patients life. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjn.v28i2.17181 Bangladesh Journal of Neuroscience 2012; Vol. 28 (2): 102-107
Neuropathy in Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Alahi Md Munzur , Amin Md Pervez , Ali Md Ahmed , Kafiluddin Md , Ahmad Quamruddin
Published: November 2013

Peripheral neuropathy is common in chronic renal failure patients and its early detection and treatment reduces the sufferings of these patients. Studies of neuropathy in ESKD have demonstrated prevalence rates which vary from 60 to 100%. The striking pathologic features of peripheral neuropathy in patients of CRF are axonal degeneration in the most distal nerve trunks with secondary segmental demyelination. The most frequent clinical features are those of large-fiber involvement, with paresthesias, reduction in deep tendon reflexes, impaired vibration sense, weakness and muscle wasting. Patients of CRF may present with mononeuropathies or autonomic failure also. The exact cause of nerve involvement has not been identified but the middle molecule hypothesis is widely accepted. Dialysis in any form fails to improve the neuropathy but renal transplantation does improve the neurological complications. This review details the various features of neuropathy in patients of chronic renal failure. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjn.v28i2.17183 Bangladesh Journal of Neuroscience 2012; Vol. 28 (2): 116-127
Arsenic Intoxication Presenting as Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Ahmed Sharif Uddin , Rana Md Masud , Islam Md Rafiqul , Rahman Hasan Zahidur , Bhuiyan Moniruzzaman , Bhowmic Nirmalendu Bikash
Published: November 2013

Chronic Arsenic Toxicity may have varied clinical presentations ranging from non-cancerous manifestations to malignancy of skin and different internal organs. Chronic arsenic exposure results in dermatologic manifestations prior to overt clinical neuropathy. Arsenic neuropathy causes painful paresthesias and, with higher level or continued exposure, length-dependent weakness. We are reporting two cases of chronic arsenic poisoning who presented initially as peripheral sensory motor neuropathy and skin manifestations. Arsenic poisoning was suspected because many of the other family members also developed similar symptoms simultaneously. The hair samples of these patients contained markedly elevated levels of arsenic. Also the water samples from their household and the neighboring households were found to have alarming levels of inorganic arsenic. Provision of arsenic free drinking water halt further deterioration of symptoms and there was significant improvement of their dermatological & neurological conditions. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjn.v28i2.17184 Bangladesh Journal of Neuroscience 2012; Vol. 28 (2): 128-131
The retrospective chart review: important methodological considerations
Authors: Vassar Matt , Matthew Holzmann
Published: November 2013

In this paper, we review and discuss ten common methodological mistakes found in retrospective chart reviews. The retrospective chart review is a widely applicable research methodology that can be used by healthcare disciplines as a means to direct subsequent prospective investigations. In many cases in this review, we have also provided suggestions or accessible resources that researchers can apply as a “best practices” guide when planning, conducting, or reviewing this investigative method.
Iterative Development and Reliability of the OMERACT Hand Osteoarthritis MRI Scoring System
Authors: Haugen Ida K. , Østergaard Mikkel , Eshed Iris , McQueen Fiona M. , Bird Paul , Gandjbakhch Frederique , Foltz Violaine , Genant Harry , Peterfy Charles , Lillegraven Siri , Haavardsholm Espen A. , Bøyesen Pernille , Conaghan Philip G.
Published: December 2013

Objective.

To develop and test the interreader reliability of the OMERACT Hand Osteoarthritis Magnetic Resonance Scoring System (HOAMRIS) for assessment of structural and inflammatory hand OA features in the interphalangeal joints.

Methods.

The HOAMRIS was developed through an iterative process. Selection of features and their scaling was agreed upon through consensus by members of the OMERACT Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Task Force, using the Oslo Hand Osteoarthritis (OA) MRI Score system as a template. Two reliability exercises were performed, in which 6 and 4 readers participated, respectively. After the first exercise, an atlas was developed and used in the second exercise to facilitate reading. In each exercise, readers independently scored 8 MRI scans from the Oslo Hand OA cohort (coronal/axial short-tau inversion recovery and coronal/axial/sagittal T1-weighted fat-suppressed pre-/post-Gadolinium images). Interreader reliability was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), percentage exact and close agreement (PEA/PCA).

Results.

The preliminary OMERACT HOAMRIS included assessment of synovitis, erosive damage, cysts, osteophytes, cartilage space loss, malalignment, and bone marrow lesions (BML), of which all were scored on a 0–3 scale for normal, mild, moderate, and severe (increments of 0.5 for synovitis, erosive damage, and BML). In the first exercise, most features showed good to very good ICC values (0.64–0.94), except synovitis (0.34). In the second exercise using the atlas, the ICC values were > 0.74 for all MRI features, and the PEA/PCA values were higher than in the first exercise.

Conclusion.

A preliminary HOAMRIS with good to very good interreader reliability was developed. Longitudinal studies are needed to assess its sensitivity to change.
Evidence-Based Prevention of Pressure Ulcers in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Cooper Karen L.
Published: December 2013

The development of stage III or IV pressure ulcers is currently considered a never event. Critical care patients are at high risk for development of pressure ulcers because of the increased use of devices, hemodynamic instability, and the use of vasoactive medications. This article addresses risk factors, risk scales such as the Norden, Braden, Waterlow, and Jackson-Cubbin scales used to determine the risk of pressure ulcers in critical care patients, and prevention of device-related pressure ulcers in patients in the critical care unit.
Immunotherapy with TCR-Redirected T Cells: Comparison of TCR-Transduced and TCR-Engineered Hematopoietic Stem Cell–Derived T Cells
Authors: Stärck Lilian , Popp Katja , Pircher Hanspeter , Uckert Wolfgang
Published: November 2013

Redirecting Ag specificity by transfer of TCR genes into PBLs is an attractive method to generate large numbers of cytotoxic T cells for immunotherapy of cancer and viral diseases. However, transferred TCR chains can pair with endogenous TCR chains, resulting in the formation of mispaired TCR dimers and decreased or unspecific reactivity. TCR gene transfer into hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) is an alternative to create T cells with desired Ag specificity, because in this case expression of endogenous TCR chains is then less likely owing to allelic exclusion. We generated TCR-transduced T cells from peripheral T cells using the lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus–specific P14 TCR. After transfer of the P14 TCR genes into HSCs and subsequent reconstitution of irradiated mice, TCR-engineered HSC-derived T cells were produced. We then compared the Ag-specific T cell populations with P14 TCR-transgenic T cells for their therapeutic efficiency in three in vivo models. In this study, we demonstrate that TCR-transduced T cells and TCR-engineered HSC-derived T cells are comparable in controlling lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infection in mice and suppress growth of B16 tumor cells expressing the cognate Ag in a comparable manner.
MyD88 Signaling Regulates Both Host Defense and Immunopathogenesis during Pneumocystis Infection
Authors: Bello-Irizarry Sheila N. , Wang Jing , Johnston Carl J. , Gigliotti Francis , Wright Terry W.
Published: November 2013

The immune response protects against Pneumocystis infection but is also a key component of Pneumocystis pneumonia (PcP)–related immunopathogenesis. Signaling through myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) is critical for activation of immune pathways downstream of TLRs and IL-1R. To determine whether MyD88 regulates normal host defense against Pneumocystis, nonimmunosuppressed wild-type (WT) and MyD88-deficient mice were infected. MyD88−/− mice had higher early Pneumocystis burdens than did WT mice but mounted an effective adaptive immune response and cleared Pneumocystis similarly to WT. However, MyD88−/− mice displayed a more intense and prolonged pulmonary immune response than did WT mice. To determine the role of MyD88 in the development of PcP-related immunopathogenesis, WT and MyD88−/− mice were rendered susceptible to PcP by depletion of CD4+ T cells. At 4 wk postinfection, CD4-depleted WT and MyD88−/− mice harbored similar organism burdens, but MyD88−/− mice were protected from the PcP-related respiratory impairment observed in WT mice. Improved pulmonary physiology in MyD88−/− mice correlated with lower lung CCL2 levels and reduced cell recruitment. However, by 5 wk postinfection, the overall health of MyD88−/− mice began to deteriorate rapidly relative to WT, with accelerated weight loss, impaired lung function, and exacerbated alveolar inflammation. This physiological decline of MyD88−/− mice was associated with increased TNF-α and IFN-γ in the lung, and by the inability to control Pneumocystis burden. Thus, MyD88 is not required for resistance to Pneumocystis infection, but limits the adaptive immune response in immunocompetent mice. In the setting of active PcP, MyD88 signaling contributes to both immunopathogenesis and control of fungal burden.
Two Separate Defects Affecting True Naive or Virtual Memory T Cell Precursors Combine To Reduce Naive T Cell Responses with Aging
Authors: Renkema Kristin R. , Li Gang , Wu Angela , Smithey Megan J. , Nikolich-Žugich Janko
Published: November 2013

Naive T cell responses are eroded with aging. We and others have recently shown that unimmunized old mice lose ≥70% of Ag-specific CD8 T cell precursors and that many of the remaining precursors acquire a virtual (central) memory (VM; CD44hiCD62Lhi) phenotype. In this study, we demonstrate that unimmunized TCR transgenic (TCRTg) mice also undergo massive VM conversion with age, exhibiting rapid effector function upon both TCR and cytokine triggering. Age-related VM conversion in TCRTg mice directly depended on replacement of the original TCRTg specificity by endogenous TCRα rearrangements, indicating that TCR signals must be critical in VM conversion. Importantly, we found that VM conversion had adverse functional effects in both old wild-type and old TCRTg mice; that is, old VM, but not old true naive, T cells exhibited blunted TCR-mediated, but not IL-15–mediated, proliferation. This selective proliferative senescence correlated with increased apoptosis in old VM cells in response to peptide, but decreased apoptosis in response to homeostatic cytokines IL-7 and IL-15. Our results identify TCR as the key factor in differential maintenance and function of Ag-specific precursors in unimmunized mice with aging, and they demonstrate that two separate age-related defects—drastic reduction in true naive T cell precursors and impaired proliferative capacity of their VM cousins—combine to reduce naive T cell responses with aging.
CD8+ T Cell–Independent Tumor Regression Induced by Fc-OX40L and Therapeutic Vaccination in a Mouse Model of Glioma
Authors: Murphy Katherine A. , Erickson Jami R. , Johnson Charles S. , Seiler Charles E. , Bedi Jessica , Hu Peisheng , Pluhar G. Elizabeth , Epstein Alan L. , Ohlfest John R.
Published: November 2013

Despite the growing number of preclinical and clinical trials focused on immunotherapy for the treatment of malignant gliomas, the prognosis for this disease remains grim. Although some promising advances have been made, the immune response stimulated as a result of immunotherapeutic protocols has been inefficient at complete tumor elimination, primarily due to our lack of understanding of the necessary effector functions of the immune system. We previously demonstrated that a tumor lysate vaccine/Fc-OX40L therapy is capable of inducing enhanced survival and tumor elimination in the GL261 mouse glioma model. The following experiments were performed to determine the mechanism(s) of action of this therapy that elicits a potent antitumor immune response. The evidence subsequently outlined indicates a CD8+ T cell–independent and CD4+ T cell–, NK cell–, and B cell–dependent means of prolonged survival. CD8+ T cell–independent tumor clearance is surprising considering the current focus of many cancer immunotherapy protocols. These results provide evidence for CD8+ T cell–independent means of antitumor response and should lead to additional examination of the potential manipulation of this mechanism for future treatment strategies.
Neutralization of Plasmodium falciparum Merozoites by Antibodies against PfRH5
Authors: Douglas Alexander D. , Williams Andrew R. , Knuepfer Ellen , Illingworth Joseph J. , Furze Julie M. , Crosnier Cécile , Choudhary Prateek , Bustamante Leyla Y. , Zakutansky Sara E. , Awuah Dennis K. , Alanine Daniel G. W. , Theron Michel , Worth Andrew , Shimkets Richard , Rayner Julian C. , Holder Anthony A. , Wright Gavin J. , Draper Simon J.
Published: November 2013

There is intense interest in induction and characterization of strain-transcending neutralizing Ab against antigenically variable human pathogens. We have recently identified the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum reticulocyte-binding protein homolog 5 (PfRH5) as a target of broadly neutralizing Abs, but there is little information regarding the functional mechanism(s) of Ab-mediated neutralization. In this study, we report that vaccine-induced polyclonal anti-PfRH5 Abs inhibit the tight attachment of merozoites to erythrocytes and are capable of blocking the interaction of PfRH5 with its receptor basigin. Furthermore, by developing anti-PfRH5 mAbs, we provide evidence of the following: 1) the ability to block the PfRH5–basigin interaction in vitro is predictive of functional activity, but absence of blockade does not predict absence of functional activity; 2) neutralizing mAbs bind spatially related epitopes on the folded protein, involving at least two defined regions of the PfRH5 primary sequence; 3) a brief exposure window of PfRH5 is likely to necessitate rapid binding of Ab to neutralize parasites; and 4) intact bivalent IgG contributes to but is not necessary for parasite neutralization. These data provide important insight into the mechanisms of broadly neutralizing anti-malaria Abs and further encourage anti-PfRH5–based malaria prevention efforts.
TGF-β Promotes Immune Responses in the Presence of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Xu Chunliang , Yu Pengfei , Han Xiaoyan , Du Liming , Gan Jianhe , Wang Ying , Shi Yufang
Published: November 2013

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess potent immunosuppression capacity and could exert strong therapeutic effects in many diseases, especially inflammatory disorders, in animal models and clinical settings. Although inflammatory cytokines are critical in inducing the immune modulatory properties of MSCs, detailed molecular mechanisms are yet to be fully understood. TGF-β is a well-known anti-inflammatory cytokine and exists in various inflammatory processes; therefore, we investigated whether it could synergize with MSCs in suppressing immune responses. To our surprise, we found that TGF-β actually reversed the immunosuppressive effect of MSCs on anti-CD3 activated splenocytes. Using TGF-β unresponsive MSCs, we demonstrated that the TGF-β directly acted on MSCs. Furthermore, we showed that the effect of TGF-β is exerted through inhibiting inflammatory cytokines induced inducible NO synthase (iNOS) expression in a SMAD3-dependent manner. Interestingly, we found that TGF-β produced by MSCs could act in an autocrine manner to reduce inflammatory cytokine-induced inducible NO synthase expression by MSCs themselves. Therefore, our study revealed a previously unrecognized property of TGF-β in promoting immune responses in the presence of MSCs.
Helicobacter pylori Cytotoxin-Associated Gene A Impairs Human Dendritic Cell Maturation and Function through IL-10–Mediated Activation of STAT3
Authors: Kaebisch Romy , Mejías-Luque Raquel , Prinz Christian , Gerhard Markus
Published: November 2013

Helicobacter pylori infection induces chronic gastric inflammation that can progress to cancer. In this process, the virulence factor cytotoxin-associated gene A (CagA) plays a central role by directly altering epithelial cell signaling and inducing a strong Th1 immune response, which contributes to carcinogenesis. It is still barely understood how the bacterium evades clearance despite this solid immune response and persists lifelong. Dendritic cells (DCs) play a major role in determining the adaptive immune response toward H. pylori, and high levels of regulatory T cells have been detected infiltrating the gastric mucosa of H. pylori–infected patients, which contribute to bacterial persistence. Although murine studies indicate that H. pylori induces tolerization of DCs and impairs DC maturation, the virulence determinants involved are still controversial. Moreover, the signaling cascades engaged in human DC tolerization upon H. pylori infection remain unknown. In the current study, we analyzed the effect of H. pylori infection on human DC maturation and function, focusing on the virulence factors implicated and signaling pathways involved. Our results reveal that CagA is crucial for DC tolerization by modulating IL-10 secretion and, in turn, STAT3 phosphorylation, favoring a regulatory T cell immune response. Our findings help to unravel the paradox why CagA-positive strains, although eliciting a stronger inflammatory response, have overcome evolutionary pressure and persisted in their human host.
Human Dendritic Cells Derived From Embryonic Stem Cells Stably Modified With CD1d Efficiently Stimulate Antitumor Invariant Natural Killer T Cell Response
Authors: Zeng Jieming , Wang Shu
Published: November 2013

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are a unique lymphocyte subpopulation that mediates antitumor activities upon activation. A current strategy to harness iNKT cells for cancer treatment is endogenous iNKT cell activation using patient-derived dendritic cells (DCs). However, the limited number and functional defects of patient DCs are still the major challenges for this therapeutic approach. In this study, we investigated whether human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) with an ectopically expressed CD1d gene could be exploited to address this issue. Using a lentivector carrying an optimized expression cassette, we generated stably modified hESC lines that consistently overexpressed CD1d. These modified hESC lines were able to differentiate into DCs as efficiently as the parental line. Most importantly, more than 50% of such derived DCs were CD1d+. These CD1d-overexpressing DCs were more efficient in inducing iNKT cell response than those without modification, and their ability was comparable to that of DCs generated from monocytes of healthy donors. The iNKT cells expanded by the CD1d-overexpressing DCs were functional, as demonstrated by their ability to lyse iNKT cell-sensitive glioma cells. Therefore, hESCs stably modified with the CD1d gene may serve as a convenient, unlimited, and competent DC source for iNKT cell-based cancer immunotherapy.
Generation of Functional Insulin-Producing Cells From Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells Through 804G Cell-Derived Extracellular Matrix and Protein Transduction of Transcription Factors
Authors: Kaitsuka Taku , Noguchi Hirofumi , Shiraki Nobuaki , Kubo Takuya , Wei Fan-Yan , Hakim Farzana , Kume Shoen , Tomizawa Kazuhito
Published: November 2013

Embryonic stem (ES) and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells have potential applications to regenerative medicine for diabetes; however, a useful and safe way to generate pancreatic β cells has not been developed. In this study, we tried to establish an effective method of differentiation through the protein transduction of three transcription factors (Pdx1, NeuroD, and MafA) important to pancreatic β cell development. The method poses no risk of unexpected genetic modifications in target cells. Transduction of the three proteins induced the differentiation of mouse ES and mouse iPS cells into insulin-producing cells. Furthermore, a laminin-5-rich extracellular matrix efficiently induced differentiation under feeder-free conditions. Cell differentiation was confirmed with the expression of the insulin 1 gene in addition to marker genes in pancreatic β cells, the differentiated cells secreted glucose-responsive C-peptide, and their transplantation restored normoglycemia in diabetic mice. Moreover, Pdx1 protein transduction had facilitative effects on differentiation into pancreatic endocrine progenitors from human iPS cells. These results suggest the direct delivery of recombinant proteins and treatment with laminin-5-rich extracellular matrix to be useful for the generation of insulin-producing cells.
Más allá de la genética: Factores ambientales y cáncer
Authors: Guillem Porta Vicente , Juan Fita María José
Published: November 2013

El cáncer es uno de los problemas sanitarios más importantes de los países occidentales, dada su alta incidencia y elevada mortalidad. Constituye la segunda causa de muerte después de las enfermedades cardiovasculares, y la primera causa en la población menor de 70 años. En este artículo nos ocuparemos de los factores externos capaces de inducir el desarrollo de un cáncer: agentes químicos, físicos y biológicos
Cáncer hereditario: Importancia y necesidad de su detección
Authors: Osorio Cabrero Ana
Published: November 2013

A pesar de que tan solo el 1% de los casos de cáncer se pueden  considerar de tipo hereditario, en la actualidad se han descrito más de 200 síndromes caracterizados por la agregación familiar de distintos tipos de tumores. La identificación a lo largo del siglo XX de muchos de los genes responsables de estos síndromes ha permitido un gran avance en el manejo de estas familias, a la hora de identificar o descartar los individuos a riesgo y establecer unas medidas preventivas específicas. Sin embargo, existe todavía un alto porcentaje de los casos hereditarios en los que la causa de la susceptibilidad es desconocida, siendo la búsqueda de nuevos genes mediante las nuevas tecnologías una de las prioridades en investigación.
El adolescente con cáncer: Un desafío para el sistema sanitario
Authors: Gallo Vallejo José Luis
Published: November 2013

El diagnóstico de cáncer en el adolescente supone un auténtico mazazo. En este artículo, se describen los tipos de cáncer más prevalentes en estas edades, los elementos de control del cáncer, los efectos sobre el paciente adolescente y los desafíos que suponen para el sistema sanitario su  asistencia integral. Las fundaciones existentes juegan un papel fundamental, procurando que el adolescente con cáncer nunca pierda el espíritu de lucha.
El cáncer de mama hoy: Avances en la epidemiología del cáncer de mama femenino
Authors: Pollán Marina
Published: November 2013

El cáncer de mama es un problema de salud en la población femenina en todo el mundo. Es tan frecuente que para todos nosotros tiene el rostro de familiares, amigas o conocidas. En este artículo comentamos la situación de esta enfermedad en el mundo y en nuestro país, así como los principales factores de riesgo.
Entre l’estigma i la frivolitat: El Dia Mundial del Càncer en la premsa espanyola
Authors: Sapiña Lucía , Domínguez Martí
Published: November 2013

El càncer és un tema d’interès destacat per a la ciutadania. Els mitjans de comunicació, en tant que reflex i alhora conformadors de valors socials, transmeten una visió de la malaltia que no sempre és la més acurada i clarificadora. En aquest article s’analitza la repercussió mediàtica durant la darrera dècada del Dia Mundial del Càncer als quatre diaris d’informació general amb major difusió a Espanya. L’objectiu és estudiar de quina manera es fa ús de l’efemèride per a oferir informació relativa a la malaltia i si el tractament informatiu és precís i rigorós o cau en l’estereotip i el sensacionalisme.
Mirando de frente al espejo: Jo Spence y Hannah Wilke
Authors: Martínez Oliva Jesús , Pujante González Domingo
Published: November 2013

El cáncer ha sido durante mucho tiempo una enfermedad tabú cercada por la ocultación y el silenciamiento a nivel social y por la consecuente exclusión del marco de la representación visual y artística. Este texto pretende poner de relieve el papel pionero de dos artistas mujeres -Hannah Wilke y Jo Spence- que en la década de los ochenta rompieron con el miedo y el pudor a representar esta enfermedad e introdujeron en su obra sus experiencias, vividas en primera persona, del cáncer. El autorretrato fotográfico, desde diversas estrategias que van de la fototerapia a la labor deconstructiva de estereotipos y tabúes o la militancia crítica, sirve a estas autoras para enfrentarse personalmente a esta patología e intentar desentrañar las metáforas y estigmas que la rodean social y culturalmente.
La memòria oceànica del clima: El sistema circulatori d'un planeta viu
Authors: Pelegrí Josep Lluís , Duró Alícia
Published: November 2013

A principis del segle XVI Leonardo da Vinci comparava els corrents oceànics amb el fl ux de sang d’un cos humà. Actualment disposem d’informació sufi cient per a explorar la idea que la Terra té un sistema circulatori responsable de capturar, transformar i distribuir l’energia solar. El paper dels oceans com a reguladors del clima és extraordinari, realment condicionen el present i el futur del planeta.
La evolución en los tribunales: aplicaciones forenses de las filogenias moleculares
Authors: González-Candelas Fernando
Published: November 2013

En las dos últimas décadas se ha generalizado el uso de pruebas genéticas en los tribunales, permitiendo la identificación de criminales a partir de restos biológicos, la determinación de paternidades o la identificación de cadáveres. Menos conocidas son las periciales basadas en el uso de filogenias moleculares. En ellas se estudia la ancestralidad común de organismos, normalmente virus o bacterias, para establecer su asociación a una fuente de infección. Desde el caso del dentista de Florida, que infectó con el VIH a varios de sus pacientes, hasta el más próximo del anestesista Juan Maeso, que transmitió el VHC a cerca de 300 pacientes, la teoría evolutiva tiene un papel esencial en estas pruebas. En este artículo se explican las bases de esta aplicación de la teoría evolutiva.
Genética de la conservación: la aplicación de los conceptos de la evolución a la conservación de la diversidad biológica
Authors: Caballero Rúa Armando
Published: November 2013

La comprensión de las fuerzas de cambio evolutivo que actúan sobre las poblaciones, en conjunción con las técnicas más modernas de análisis genético, lleva aplicándose en los últimos veinte años al servicio de la conservación de la biodiversidad. Esta nueva aplicación de la genética ha recibido el nombre de genética de la conservación.
Tras la pista del VIH: los estudios evolutivos y la comprensión del sida.
Authors: Pereira-Gómez Marianoel , Peris Joan Baptista , Sanjuán Verdeguer Rafael
Published: November 2013

El VIH o virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana tiene un gran impacto sanitario, social y económico; las terapias actuales permiten controlar la infección pero no se ha encontrado tratamiento curativo ni vacuna efectiva. Para conseguir estos objetivos, debe tenerse en cuenta la gran variabilidad genética y rápida evolución del VIH, asociadas, por ejemplo, a la aparición de variantes de resistencia a fármacos o de cambios antigénicos.
Nueva era en el combate contra el cáncer: Evolución y cáncer: progreso y tratamiento de tumores
Authors: Lluch Hernández Ana , Pérez-Fidalgo José Alejandro , Martín Martorell Paloma
Published: November 2013

La oncohematología ha asistido en las últimas décadas a importantes avances en el tratamiento y supervivencia. La toxicidad derivada de la quimioterapia clásica y la necesidad de mejorar la eficacia y tolerancia a los tratamientos ha hecho que se desencadene una avalancha de actividad investigadora cuyos frutos son constantes. Gran parte de este esfuerzo se ha enfocado hacia el desarrollo de «terapias diana» dirigidas a determinadas alteraciones funcionales, claves para la supervivencia de la célula tumoral. Con ello se pretende obtener una mayor eficacia del tratamiento, y que el paciente pague un menor coste en toxicidad. Avances en otras disciplinas de la oncología como la epidemiología, la cirugía y la radioterapia dirigida han contribuido asimismo a hacer de la oncología un área en constante avance. En definitiva, se comienza a vislumbrar un futuro lleno de esperanza para el paciente con cáncer y, al mismo tiempo, apasionante para el médico y el investigador.
El pòlip de Trembley: L'"animal-planta" que va sacsejar la biologia del segle XVIII
Authors: Bernat Pasqual
Published: November 2013

Els experiments d’Abraham Trembley amb l’hidra d’aigua dolça no només van sorprendre els seus contemporanis per la seva espectacularitat, sinó que els seus resultats també van causar un enorme trasbals en la comunitat científica del seu temps. Idees com la «cadena del ser», el mecanisme de generació dels éssers vius o la mateixa naturalesa de l’ànima van ser fortament sacsejades.
Un ecosistema enfermo: la lucha contra la resistencia a antibióticos desde una perspectiva global
Authors: Baquero Fernando , Turrientes Maria Carmen
Published: November 2013

La producción antropogénica de antibióticos ha provocado una enfermedad de los ecosistemas microbianos de dimensión planetaria, cuya repercusión más inmediata para el hombre es la intratabilidad de las infecciones. La comprensión del fenómeno y las posibilidades de intervención requieren nuevos métodos conceptuales, analíticos y tecnológicos.
Characterization of GABA Receptors
Authors: Enna S.J. , McCarson Kenneth E.
Published: December 2013

Described in this unit are ligand‐binding assays for GABAA, GABAB, and the homomeric ρ GABAA (formerly GABAC) receptor recognition sites in brain tissue. Although GABA binding sites are present in peripheral organs, most research is directed toward examining these receptors in the CNS. These assays may also be used to determine the affinity of an unlabeled compound for the GABA binding sites. Excluded from the unit are ligand‐binding assays for other components of the GABAA receptor complex, such as the benzodiazepine or ion‐channel binding sites. Curr. Protoc. Pharmacol. 63:1.7.1‐1.7.20. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Expanding Mouse Ventricular Cardiomyocytes Through GSK‐3 Inhibition
Authors: Buikema Jan W. , Zwetsloot Peter‐Paul M. , Doevendans Pieter A. , Sluijter Joost P.G. , Domian Ibrahim J.
Published: December 2013

Controlled proliferation of cardiomyocytes remains a major limitation in cell biology and one of the main underlying hurdles for true modern regenerative medicine. Here, a technique is described for robust expansion of early fetal‐derived mouse ventricular cardiomyocytes on a platform usable for high‐throughput molecular screening, tissue engineering and, potentially, in vivo translational experiments. This method provides a small‐molecule approach to control proliferation or differentiation of early beating cardiomyocytes through modulation of the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. Moreover, isolation and expansion of fetal cardiomyocytes takes less than 3 weeks, yields a relatively pure (∼70%) functional myogenic population, and is highly reproducible. Curr. Protoc. Cell Biol. 61:23.9.1‐23.9.10. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Initial in situ measurements of perennial meltwater storage in the Greenland firn aquifer
Authors: Koenig Lora S. , Miège Clément , Forster Richard R. , Brucker Ludovic
Published: November 2013

A perennial storage of water in a firn aquifer was discovered in southeast Greenland in 2011. We present the first in situ measurements of the aquifer, including densities and temperatures. Water was present at depths between ~12 and 37 m and amounted to 18.7 ± 0.9 kg in the extracted core. The water filled the firn to capacity at ~35 m. Measurements show the aquifer temperature remained at the melting point, representing a large heat reservoir within the firn. Using model results of liquid water extent and aquifer surface depth from radar measurements, we extend our in situ measurements to the Greenland ice sheet. The estimated water volume is 140 ± 20 Gt, representing ~0.4 mm of sea level rise (SLR). It is unknown if the aquifer temporary buffers SLR or contributes to SLR through drainage and/or ice dynamics.
Discrete blasts in granular material yield two‐stage process of cavitation and granular fountaining
Authors: Andrews Robin G. , White James D. L. , Dürig Tobi , Zimanowski Bernd
Published: November 2013

A discrete blast within granular material, such as a single subterranean explosion within a debris‐filled diatreme structure, is typically considered to produce a single uprush of material. Our experiments demonstrate that apparent “debris jet deposits” can be formed by a two‐stage process of cavitation and subsequent granular fountaining. Bench‐scale experiments reported here demonstrate that for a range of overpressures and depths, individual, discrete, buried gas blasts open space and expel particles from the blast site in two largely decoupled stages. Expanding gas initially pierces material nearest the blast source to open a cavity above it; then a fountain of grains rises from the source into the cavity. This staged motion dynamically segregates source grains from host‐material grains, and the rates of cavity opening versus fountain rise show a power law decay relationship with initial pressure. Our experimental analysis has implications for maar‐diatreme systems, field‐scale detonation experiments, and underground nuclear testing.
SuperDARN assimilative mapping
Authors: Cousins E. D. P. , Matsuo Tomoko , Richmond A. D.
Published: November 2013

An assimilative mapping procedure is developed to optimally combine information from Super Dual Auroral Radar Network (SuperDARN) plasma drift observations and a background statistical convection model to derive global distributions of electrostatic potential. This procedure takes into account statistical properties of the background model errors, obtained through the empirical orthogonal function analysis technique described in a companion paper. The assimilative mapping procedure is evaluated quantitatively using cross‐validation and is found to reduce median prediction errors by up to 43% as compared to the existing linear regression‐based SuperDARN mapping procedure. Furthermore, the mapped results from the assimilative procedure show a greater dynamic range in convection strength than do those of the regression‐based procedure (i.e., the cross–polar cap potential is smaller for weak driving conditions and larger for strong driving conditions). The application of the assimilative procedure is demonstrated for a case study containing a geomagnetic storm. It is shown that, qualitatively, the results of the assimilative procedure appear more smooth and consistent across both data‐dense and data‐sparse regions than do those of the regression‐based procedure.
Sea surface transport in the Western Mediterranean Sea: A Lagrangian perspective
Authors: Sayol J.‐M. , Orfila A. , Simarro G. , López C. , Renault L. , Galán A. , Conti D.
Published: December 2013

We study the sea surface transport in the Western Mediterranean Sea from a Lagrangian point of view, in particular the Alboran and the North‐Western subbasins. The study is carried out through the analysis of 3 years of surface velocity model data through Finite Size Lyapunov Exponents, Residence Time, and virtual particle trajectories complementing the classical Eulerian approach. The spatiotemporal variability of the main transport processes is inferred from the Empirical Orthogonal Function modes of the Lyapunov Exponents, being the most relevant modes discussed and physically interpreted. Results indicate that some of the variability in the surface transport patterns in the Western Mediterranean can be explained by specific modes which provide an indication of connectivity among subbasins, like the inflow of Atlantic waters through the Ibiza Channel.
Elemental carbon measurements in European Arctic snow packs
Authors: Forsström S. , Isaksson E. , Skeie R. B. , Ström J. , Pedersen C. A. , Hudson S. R. , Berntsen T. K. , Lihavainen H. , Godtliebsen F. , Gerland S.
Published: November 2013

Black carbon (BC) and other light‐absorbing particles deposited on snow and ice are known to perturb the surface radiative balance. There are few published observations of the concentration of these particles in the snow in Scandinavia and the European Arctic. We measured BC concentrations in snow samples collected in this region from 2007 to 2009, and we present the results here. The data set includes 484 surface samples and 24 column samples (covering the accumulation season) from snow on land, glaciers, and sea ice. Concentrations up to 88 ng of carbon per gram of snow (ng/g) were found in Scandinavia, while lower values were observed at higher latitudes: 11–14 ng/g in Svalbard, 7–42 ng/g in the Fram Strait, and 9 ng/g in Barrow. Values compare well with other observations but are generally found to be a factor of 2–3 higher than modeled BC concentrations in snow in the chemical transport model Oslo CTM2. This model underestimation comes in spite of potentially significant undercatch in the observations. The spring melt period enhanced BC levels in surface snow at the four sites where the BC concentrations were monitored from March to May in 2008 and 2009. A data set of replicate samples is used to establish a concentration‐dependent estimate of the meter‐scale variability of BC concentration in snow, found to be around ±30% of the average concentration.
Convergence, Globalization, Technological Development, and Interdisciplinarity in a Fast‐Evolving World
Authors: Darling‐Wolf Fabienne
Published: December 2013

This introduction makes the case for the continuing need to pay close attention to methodological issues in media studies. Locating the field within a fast‐evolving global context, it outlines some of the questions of methodology media scholars must contend with, particularly as they relate to processes of convergence, globalization, and technological development. It argues that just as media are converging, media studies scholars must transcend methodological boundaries in order to continue to develop the kind of fluid interdisciplinary approaches that are best suited to explore the multimodal and heterogeneous nature of contemporary media. It concludes that, collectively, the essays included in this volume illustrate the innovative and dynamic nature of research methods in media studies and demonstrate their authors' commitment to critical and carefully contextualized work attuned to changing dynamics as well as to the researcher's own position and bearing on the process of inquiry.
Media Research Paradigms
Authors: Splichal Slavko , Dahlgren Peter
Published: December 2013

Media and communication research is often believed to represent one of the youngest research areas in the social sciences, but the first essays discussing the nature and social functions of newspapers were written long before the birth of the modern social sciences. The great variety in forms of communication is also reflected in the diversity of research approaches and methods. This chapter deals with these differences and diversities in a broader perspective to demonstrate that it is not methodology itself that determines the differences in approaches but, rather, differences in methodologies that reflect more substantial (theoretical, epistemological, ideological) differences. The chapter begins with a conceptual discussion about academic fields and paradigms. It then discusses the somewhat ambiguous intellectual history of the field and its loose organizing logics. It sketches the contours of the dominant paradigm and its two main challengers over the past decades – the interpretivist and the critical paradigms – and considers some key challenges and controversies that shaped the field's earlier years. Finally, it explores a possible new matrix for structuring research in the field.
Film Analysis
Authors: Walters James
Published: December 2013

Critical attention to the close analysis of film has grown steadily since the turn of the century, with a number of recently published titles making it their central focus for discussion. In turn, analysis itself has enjoyed a resurgence in contemporary film studies, resulting in a number of key titles that make precise scrutiny a defining critical approach. When reflecting on these trends, we are entitled to ask what is involved in the detailed analysis of film: what challenges and rewards are represented in this critical practice? With these questions in mind, this chapter explores processes of analysis through a series of examples from film studies. In building a picture of the various forms and approaches, the discussion seeks to evaluate the enduring centrality of detailed analysis in contemporary film studies.
Exploring Visual Aspects of Audience Membership
Authors: Novak David R. , Krijnen Tonny
Published: December 2013

Photovoice, a qualitative research methodology in which participants use photographs in combination with interviews, transcends the (false) binary between visual and verbal communication as images and words work in tandem to tell participants' stories (Novak,). While audiences' reception of media has been explored thoroughly, visual interpretations as a key aspect of reception are under‐researched. This neglect of visual aspects is striking, as audiences' reception often concerns media that are visual to a high degree (e.g., television, film, Internet). We use visual elements, specifically photographs and screenshots, to analyze audiences' interpretations ofTrue Blood. Our chapter offers new ways to discuss aesthetic elements of television and the construction of latent meanings that would otherwise not appear in interviews. This chapter is a modest methodological contribution to help analyze the reception of audiences. It moves toward the inclusion of a visual aspect, via photovoice, in media studies.
Digital Ethnography and Media Practices
Authors: Ardévol Elisenda , Gómez‐Cruz Edgar
Published: December 2013

This chapter deals with ethnographic methodologies used when studying digital media, social contexts, and cultural practices. The chapter starts with an introduction to ethnography and its challenges when going digital. It then provides an overview of the different approaches to digital ethnography depending on the object of study: (1) the ethnography of online communities, virtual worlds, and social media sites; (2) the connective ethnography proposal through online and offline field settings; and (3) the ethnography of everyday life and the issue of audiences and creative practices in digital media. Finally, we discuss methodological issues relating to how to conduct online ethnographic fieldwork, including participant observation, interviews, as well as digital tools for registering, analyzing, presenting data, and some ethical considerations.