bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent advances in physiological lipoprotein metabolism
Authors: Ramasamy Indra
Published: August 2013

Research into lipoprotein metabolism has developed because understanding lipoprotein metabolism has important clinical indications. Lipoproteins are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Recent advances include the identification of factors in the synthesis and secretion of triglyceride rich lipoproteins, chylomicrons (CM) and very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). These included the identification of microsomal transfer protein, the cotranslational targeting of apoproteinB (apoB) for degradation regulated by the availability of lipids, and the characterization of transport vesicles transporting primordial apoB containing particles to the Golgi. The lipase maturation factor 1, glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored high density lipoprotein binding protein 1 and an angiopoietin-like protein play a role in lipoprotein lipase (LPL)-mediated hydrolysis of secreted CMs and VLDL so that the right amount of fatty acid is delivered to the right tissue at the right time. Expression of the low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor is regulated at both transcriptional and post-transcriptional level. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) has a pivotal role in the degradation of LDL receptor. Plasma remnant lipoproteins bind to specific receptors in the liver, the LDL receptor, VLDL receptor and LDL receptor-like proteins prior to removal from the plasma. Reverse cholesterol transport occurs when lipid free apoAI recruits cholesterol and phospholipid to assemble high density lipoprotein (HDL) particles. The discovery of ABC transporters (ABCA1 and ABCG1) and scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) provided further information on the biogenesis of HDL. In humans HDL-cholesterol can be returned to the liver either by direct uptake by SR-BI or through cholesteryl ester transfer protein exchange of cholesteryl ester for triglycerides in apoB lipoproteins, followed by hepatic uptake of apoB containing particles. Cholesterol content in cells is regulated by several transcription factors, including the liver X receptor and sterol regulatory element binding protein. This review summarizes recent advances in knowledge of the molecular mechanisms regulating lipoprotein metabolism.
The mineralocorticoid receptor: a new player controlling energy homeostasis
Authors: Kuhn Emmanuelle , Lombès Marc
Published: August 2013

Numerous studies have demonstrated the interaction that exists between adipocyte differentiation, energy balance and factors involved in fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, such as the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. More specifically, a potential impact of aldosterone on the function of several organs implicated in the control of energy homeostasis, such as adipose tissue, liver, skeletal muscle or pancreas, has been recently described. In addition, the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR, NR3C2), a transcription factor, was shown to play a crucial role on white and brown adipocyte differentiation and function, mediating the effects of both mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid hormones on adipose tissues. Transgenic mouse models as well as pharmacological inactivation of MR signaling provided compelling evidence that MR is an important control point for energy homeostasis. Herein, we review recent findings on the involvement of aldosterone but also of MR on energy metabolism and discuss the therapeutic potential of manipulating MR signaling for the management of metabolic disorders in humans.
Semiparametric Regression Analysis of Clustered Interval-Censored Failure Time Data with Informative Cluster Size
Authors: Zhang Xinyan , Sun Jianguo
Published: August 2013

Clustered interval-censored failure time data are commonly encountered in many medical settings. In such situations, one issue that often arises in practice is that the cluster size is related to the risk for the outcome of interest. It is well-known that ignoring the informativeness of the cluster size can result in biased parameter estimates. In this article, we consider regression analysis of clustered interval-censored data with informative cluster size with the focus on semiparametric methods. For the problem, two approaches are presented and investigated. One is a within-cluster resampling procedure and the other is a weighted estimating equation approach. Unlike previously published methods, the new approaches take into account cluster sizes and heterogeneous correlation structures without imposing strong parametric assumptions. A simulation experiment is carried out to evaluate the performance of the proposed approaches and indicates that they perform well for practical situations. The approaches are applied to a lymphatic filariasis study that motivated this study.
Financial Crisis – The Liability of Banking Institutions
Authors: Loser Peter
Published: August 2013

This article outlines what roles the banks have played in the subprime crisis and whether liability for damages sustained may be incurred. Apart from the conventional responsibility of banks towards their clients within the framework of wealth management or advisory services, the particular issue of possible liability for the creation and placement of investment products on the market is explored. Many questions which remain unanswered or are barely discussed are raised in the article. Independently of prospectus liability arising under specific legislative provision, is there a general tortious responsibility for providing incorrect information in connection with the issuing of securities? Is strict liability for the creation of dangerous products a realistic alternative – or supplement – to liability based on fault? Can individuals or institutions who were only indirectly involved as secondary victims claim compensation? In addition to the grounds of liability, other delicate legal questions are addressed, particularly relating to causation. For instance, it may not be clear whether an error in information or rather general market euphoria was the decisive factor in the investment decision. If, moreover, one wanted to extend liability to a large number of persons involved, the causal contributions of the individual banks may barely be determinable and could well be minimal. This leads to the question of whether procedural law is capable of dealing with such cases of loss.
The Liability of Credit Rating Agencies in a Comparative Perspective
Authors: Scarso Alessandro
Published: August 2013

The article deals with the liability of Credit Rating Agencies (CRAs) for inaccurate ratings towards issuers, clients and any other third party in a comparative perspective. The author focuses on the remedies granted, in particular, to clients of banks who have suffered a loss due to the CRA’s faulty rating, highlighting the substantive differences existing in the jurisdictions considered. It pleads for the introduction of a ‘cap’ to CRA’s liability, as a means to reconcile the statement of liability of CRAs whilst preventing the ‘opening the floodgates’ to compensation which would result in a crushing liability on CRAs.
The Liability of Financial Supervisory AuthoritiesI am grateful to Robert Dijkstra for his helpful comments on an earlier draft. The usual caveat applies.
Authors: Nolan Donal
Published: August 2013

In the wake of the global financial crisis, this article considers the tort liability of financial supervisory authorities to depositors and other investors following the failure of a bank or other financial institution. The analysis is comparative, with the primary focus being on the member states of the European Union. Consideration is given to the five liability categories or standards which are employed by EU member states in such cases. These are (1) a public law illegality standard; (2) a standard of ordinary fault/negligence; (3) a standard of gross fault/negligence; (4) a requirement of bad faith; and (5) complete immunity from liability. It is also shown that on the application of general tort principles claims by depositors against financial supervisors face a range of obstacles, including difficulties in establishing fault and causation, and conceptual difficulties based on the nature of the damage (the pure economic loss issue), liability for omissions and for the deliberate acts of third parties, liability for the exercise of judicial or ‘quasi-judicial’ functions, and the ‘protective purpose of the norm’ principle. Finally, consideration is given to alternative means of redress which may be available to depositors in such cases.
Balancing Acts: How to Cope with Major Catastrophes, particularly the Financial Crisis
Authors: Spier Jaap
Published: August 2013

We are on the eve of the materialisation of a series of major global risks. They pose unprecedented challenges, also for lawyers. If society at large does not change course radically, many people will be adversely affected. Traditionally, lawyers focus on ex post remedies. While that may be unavoidable in relation to the run-of-the-mill cases, it is not the most promising approach in relation to the colossal damage that will be caused by the looming global crises if we stick to business as usual. This contribution advocates a shift of paradigm. I doubt whether damages is a serious option. Instead, we should focus on preventive remedies.
Erratum to
More characteristic subgroups, Lie rings, and isomorphism tests for p-groups
[J. Group Theory (2013), DOI 10.1515/jgt-2013-0026]
Authors: Wilson James B.
Published: August 2013

Erratum to http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/jgt-2013-0026.
Oxidative Stress and Pteridines in Pediatric Asthma: Relationship to Exhaled Nitric Oxide
Authors: Takeda Taisuke , Hamazaki Takashi , Wakahara Ryohei , Fujioka Hiroki , Niihira Shizuhiro , Shintaku Haruo
Published: August 2013

Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a useful marker of airway inflammation in asthmatics. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) requires tetrahydrobiopterin as a cofactor and produces superoxide during NO generation. Therefore, we investigated the relationship of FeNO to pteridine biosynthesis and oxidative stress in pediatric asthma patients. We recruited 67 asthmatic children for FeNO measurement and examined neopterin, biopterin, and Diacron-reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) as an oxidative stress marker in both summer and winter. Although d-ROMs levels did not show significant correlation with FeNO levels in summer, d-ROMs and FeNO were positively correlated in winter (p <0.05). Both neopterin and biopterin levels in the blood tended to be lower in patients who showed higher FeNO. Multivariate analysis revealed that increased IgE levels correlated with increased FeNO (p <0.01) and decreased neopterin (p <0.05) levels. This data supports a mechanism by which decreased levels of pteridines promote reactive oxygen species production upon NO generation, resulting in airway injury in asthmatic patients. Correlation with IgE level indicates that Th2-mediated allergic inflammation is involved in this process.
Effect of N-acetyl cysteine, Neopterin and Dexamethasone on the Viability of Titanium dioxide Nanoparticles Exposed Cell Lines
Authors: Engin Ayse Basak , Engin Evren Doruk , Karahalil Bensu
Published: August 2013

Titanium is extensively used for a wide range of implanted medical devices due to its advantageous combination of physico-chemical and biological properties. Nano-size titanium dioxide (TiO2) is also used in a variety of consumer products. Such widespread use and its potential entry through various routes of the body suggest that TiO2 could pose an exposure risk to humans. Nano-size particles (NP) enter systemic circulation, accumulate and damage tissues that are especially sensitive to oxidative stress. We hypothesized that TiO2 NPs can exert diverse cytotoxic effects on various human cell type especially neural cell lines. In order to test our hypothesis, putative cytotoxic effects of oxidative stress due to TiO2 NPs exposure on IM9, U937 and SHSY5Y (human neuroblastoma cells) were investigated in N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), neopterin and dexamethasone pre-treated cell cultures. IM9, U937 and SHSY5Y cells were exposed to ten different concentrations of 25 and 10 nm diameter TiO2 NPs in three different time periods before and after treatment with NAC, neopterin and dexamethasone. To determine toxicity levels of NPs, cell viability was estimated by MTT test. Concentration of cells was assessed by counting trypan blue stained cells with a heamo-cytometer. Toxicity of 25nm TiO2 particles was significantly increased (p<0.05) by adding fetal bovine serum (FBS) in SHYS5Y and U937 cell lines culture medium. Concentrationdependent toxicity of 10 nm TiO2 NP was weakly increased by adding FBS to SHYS5Y, IM9 and U937 cell culture media. NAC pre-treatment provided significant protection for only SHYS5Y cell exposed to 25 nm and 10 nm of TiO2 NPs after a 24-hour incubation period. Neopterin pre-treated SHYS5Y cells displayed significant increases in viability after 24-hour exposure to 10 nm and 25 nm TiO2 NPs. While exposure of dexamethasone pre-treated U937 cells to 25 nm of TiO2 NPs induced a significant increase in cell survival at only 100 mg/ml particle concentration, increase in viability of SHYS5Y cells were observed at all concentrations against 10 nm particle challenge. Our study demonstrated that exposure of SHYS5Y to TiO2 NPs for 24 hours regularly induced reduction of cell viability. We also found similar dose-related effects of TiO2 NPs in reducing cell survival in IM9 cells. This study clearly indicated that FBS is an effective dispersing agent for TiO2 NPs and increased TiO2 toxicity in all cell lines. NAC and neopterin significantly protected the SHYS5Y cell against the putative cytotoxic effects of TiO2 NPs.
Nutritional Factors, Homocysteine and C677T Polymorphism of the Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Gene in Algerian Subjects with Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Houcher Zahira , Houcher Bakhouche , Touabti Abderrezak , Begag Samia , Egin Yonca , Akar Nejat
Published: August 2013

The C677T variant of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), a key enzyme in the remethylation of homocysteine (HCY) to methionine, is a frequent genetic cause of moderate hyperhomocysteinemia (HHCY) among individuals with cardiovascular disease (CVD), and particularly when combined with other factors such as hyperlipidaemia. However, in Algeria the influence of nutrient-gene interactions is not known. The aim of the present study was to explore the influence of age and gender, together with folate status, on the association between the C677T MTHFR polymorphism and plasma total HCY (tHCY) concentrations. This research was carried out as a prospective study on 98 patients hospitalized in the Cardiology Section, University of Sétif, Algeria. Mean age of participants was 57 y (range 20-96 y).The genetic analysis of the MTHFR C677T polymorphism was performed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) performed on Light Cycler in borosilicate capillaries with MTHFR 677CT polymorphism detection kit. The concentrations of tHCY, folic acid vitamin B12 levels were determined using a competitive immunoassay on the IMMULITE 1000 Analyzers. Plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, creatinine and urea concentrations were measured by colorimetric methods. Assays were conducted according to the manufacturers' instructions. Plasma tHCY was significantly higher in the patients with CVD, and HHCY was associated with the presence of mildly elevated serum urea and creatinine (p <0.05). MTHFR gene mutation does not seem to be associated with elevation of plasma tHCY in the studied patients and this lack of correlation could be influenced by the higher folate concentrations in our study. CVD patients with 677CT/TT genotypes had a higher concentration of total cholesterol than those with 677CC genotype (p <0.05). Although, the presence of 677T variant together with hypofolatemia (<15.4 ng/ml) had a more detrimental effect on the level of total cholesterol (p <0.05). Folatemia and vitamin B12 were much higher in 677CC genotype compared to 677CT/TT genotype in CVD subjects without hyperlipidemia (p <0.05). However in patients with hyperlipidemia these values became lower also with 677CC genotype. In conclusion, hyperlipidemia affects the levels of plasma folate and vitamin B12 concentrations independent of mutated MTHFR genotype. The effect of 677T variant on total cholesterol, folate and vitamin B12 concentrations may relate to possible adverse effects of elevated tHCY on lipid profiles and on plasma folate and vitamin B12.
Prognostic Significance of Serum Neopterin in Patients with Esophageal Carcinoma
Authors: Cincibuch Jan , Cwiertka Karel , Procházková-Študentová Hana , Zezulová Michaela , Neoral Cestmír , Kalábová Hana , Krcmová Lenka , Malírová Eva , Solichová Dagmar , Melichar Bohuslav
Published: August 2013

Increased concentrations of neopterin have been described in patients with tumors of different primary locations, but reports on neopterin in patients with carcinoma of the esophagus are still very limited. We have studied serum neopterin in 45 patients with histologically verified carcinoma of the esophagus. Serum neopterin was determined with radioimmunoassay. Neopterin concentrations above median (6.5 nmol/L) were associated with inferior prognosis in patients with early esophageal carcinoma. In multivariate analysis, tumor stage and serum neopterin were predictors of survival in patients without distant metastases. In conclusion, serum neopterin is an independent prognostic factor in patients with esophageal carcinoma.
Folic Acid Effect on Arginase Activity in Human Colostrum and Mature Milk
Authors: Bjelakovic Ljiljana , Kocic Gordana , Stojanovic Ivana , Jevtovic-Stoimenov Tatjana , Najman Stevo , Sokolovic Dusan , Stojanovic Svetlana , Kocic Gordana
Published: August 2013

Folic acid, or folates are available from a large variety of sources, such as green leafy vegetables (spinach, beans) and liver. The importance of folates is based on their requirement as coenzymes in the transfer and utilization of one-carbon units in a variety of biosynthetic reactions. Folate is an essential cofactor for the de novo biosynthesis of purine nucleotides and thymine, thus influencing RNA and DNA synthesis. Therefore, during periods of rapid cell regeneration and growth, such as pregnancy and infancy, increased amounts of folate are required.

Folate has the roles in the prevention of neural tube defects, an important cause of infant mortality and disability. The periconceptional folic acid intake reduces the risk of neural tube defects.

Arginase, as part of the urea cycle, detoxifies human body from ammonia. Its activity is important in the production of ornithine, subsequently leading to the production of polyamines (spermine and spermidine), glutamate or proline, and nitric oxide. Arginase is normally present in mother's milk.

In the present study, the effect of folic acid supplementation during pregnancy on the dynamics of arginase activity and malondialdehyde concentration in human colostrum and mature milk was studied.

The obtained results suggest that in breastfeeding mothers' colostrum and mature human milk samples, supplemented with folic acid during pregnancy (400mg/daily periconceptionaly), the arginase activity increases compared with the enzyme activity in milk samples taken from mothers who did not take folic acid. At the same time, the supplementation with folic acid causes malondialdehyde decrease in colostrum and mature milk.
Influence of Retinopathy on Plasma Concentrations of total Homocysteine and other Biochemical Parameters in Algerian Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Amrane Mounira , Houcher Zahira , Begag Samia , Houcher Bakhouche , Benlatreche Cherifa , Touabti Abderrezak , Laouamri Slimane , Malek Rachid
Published: August 2013

Homocysteine (HCY) has been identified as a risk factor for vascular disease in the general population. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) itself rather than hyperhomocysteinemia is the leading cause of blindness among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Our study was conducted with 60 healthy control subjects and 178 subjects with T2DM. They were enrolled in the Diabetes Prevention Program from September 2007 to December 2008. Of the 178 patients, 121 cases (68%) had DR Mean plasma total HCY (tHCY) levels were found to be higher in T2DM patients compared to controls (p <0.001), and were also higher than that of the DR group (p <0.001). Plasma folic acid levels were lower in the DR group compared with T2DM without DR and the control group (p <0.001), but there were no significant differences between the latter and the controls. Moderate hyperhomocysteinemia was significantly associated with lower vitamin B12 and folic acid concentrations and older age. Concentrations of serum total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG) were significantly raised (p <0.001) whereas the level of HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) was decreased (p <0.001) in diabetic subjects as compared to controls. Logistic regression analysis showed that DR after adjustment was significantly associated with the following factors: cholesterol, HDL-C and TG. The analysis in DR patients after controlling for cholesterol and TG was independent of plasma tHCY concentrations (OR = 28.5 and OR = 11.9; respectively). In conclusion, results suggest a possible association between moderate hyperhomocysteinemia, traditional risk factors and folic acid deficiency could be an independent risk factor for DR.
Microstructures and surface performance of laser melting deposited composites on a Ti alloy
Authors: Li Peng
Published: August 2013

This work is based on the dry sliding wear and cyclic oxidation of composites deposited on a TA1 substrate using laser melting deposition (LMD) technique, the parameters of which are such as to provide almost crack-free composites with minimum dilution and very low porosity. To our knowledge, it is the first time that Stellite SF12-Al-FeSi-B4C mixed powders are deposited as hard composites by LMD technique. Scanning electron microscopy results indicate that such composites with metallurgical joint to a TA1 substrate were formed. It is noted that many nanocrystalline/amorphous phases are also produced, which improve the surface performance of such composites. Compared with the TA1 substrate, improvement of cyclic oxidation and wear resistance are obtained for such composites.
Time variation in an optimal asymmetric preference monetary policy model
Authors: Cassou Steven P. , Vázquez Jesús
Published: August 2013

This paper considers a time varying parameter extension of the Ruge-Murcia’s (Ruge-Murcia, F. J. 2003. “Does the Barro-Gordon Model Explain the Behavior of us Inflation? A Reexamination of the Empirical Evidence.”
Rethinking Anti-Immigrant Racism
Authors: Kurashige Lon
Published: August 2013

Others have discussed the history of anti-Japanese attitudes, activism, and legislation in California. This article analyzes Los Angeles voting returns for and against Proposition 1, the 1920 extension of California’s alien land law that prevented Japanese from owning or leasing land. The study looks at who opposed this anti-Japanese initiative and finds that voters’ motives reflected not only race but social class, occupational status, and political party affiliation. The findings are relevant to present-day conflicts over calls for excluding newcomers from mainstream rights and protections.
Cesarean delivery on maternal request: survey among obstetricians/gynecologists in south-east Hungary
Authors: Dweik Diána , Szimjanovszki Irma , Mészáros Gyula , Pál Attila
Published: August 2013

Introduction: increased frequency of maternal request for cesarean delivery may be a contributing factor to the rising cesarean section rate in Hungary, although there is no formal indication that would allow Hungarian obstetricians to perform this procedure legally. Thus, it is difficult to estimate the role of maternal request in the rising cesarean rate. Aim: The aim of the authors was to assess the attitudes of obstetricians toward this procedure. Method: In early 2010 anonymous questionnaires were distributed to each of the 137 obstetricians working in the maternity wards of counties Bács-Kiskun, Békés and Csongrád, with a response rate of 74.5% (n = 102). Results: More than half of the respondents refused the possibility of a legalized indication for this procedure in Hungary; however, in case it was legalized, 81 (79.4%) obstetricians would feel ready to perform it. Conclusions: The resistance of more than half of the obstetricians to an explicit indication for the procedure is in conflict with the theoretical willingness of the majority of them to perform it. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 1303–1311.
Hashimoto encephalopathy
Authors: Pocsay Gábor , Gazdag Andrea , Engelhardt József , Szaniszló István , Szolnoki Zoltán , Forczek Gabriella , Mikló László
Published: August 2013

The authors present a case report and review the literature on Hashimoto encephalopathy. The onset of the disease may be marked by focal and then progressively generalized seizures or other neurological symptoms, but a cognitive decline or various psychiatric symptoms may also emerge. High levels of anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies and/or anti-thyroglobulin antibodies are present in the serum. Corticosteroid treatment usually results in an improvement of symptoms. The syndrome is frequently overlooked and, therefore, the authors strongly recommend testing serum thyroid autoantibodies in cases with encephalopathy of unknown origin independently on the presence of thyroid disease in the patient or family history. The importance of long-term immunosuppressive treatment should also be stressed. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 1312–1316.
Comparison between the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the American College of Sports Medicine/American Heart Association criteria to classify the physical activity profile in adults
Authors: Moraes Suzana Alves de , Suzuki Cláudio Shigueki , Freitas Isabel Cristina Martins de
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: the study aims to evaluate the reproducibility between the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the American College of Sports Medicine/American Heart Association criteria to classify the physical activity profile in an adult population living in Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil. METHODS: population-based cross-sectional study, including 930 adults of both genders. The reliability was evaluated by Kappa statistics, estimated according to socio-demographic strata. RESULTS: the kappa estimates showed good agreement between the two criteria in all strata. However, higher prevalence of "actives" was found by using the American College of Sports Medicine/American Heart Association. CONCLUSIONS: although the estimates have indicated good agreement, the findings suggest caution in choosing the criteria to classify physical activity profile mainly when "walking" is the main modality of physical activity.
Validation of the process criteria for assessment of a hospital nursing service
Authors: Feldman Liliane Bauer , Cunha Isabel Cristina Kowal Olm , D'Innocenzo Maria
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: to validate an instrument containing process criteria for assessment of a hospital nursing service based on the National Accreditation Organization program. METHOD: a descriptive, quantitative methodological study performed in stages. An instrument constructed with 69 process criteria was assessed by 49 nurses from accredited hospitals in 2009, according to a Likert scale, and validated by 16 judges through Delphi rounds in 2010. RESULT: the original instrument assessed by nurses with 69 process criteria was judged by the degree of importance, and changed to 39 criteria. In the first Delphi round, the 39 criteria reached consensus among the 19 judges, with a medium reliability by Cronbach's alpha. In the second round, 40 converging criteria were validated by 16 judges, with high reliability. The criteria addressed management, costs, teaching, education, indicators, protocols, human resources, communication, among others. CONCLUSION: the 40 process criteria formed a validated instrument to assess the hospital nursing service which, when measured, can better direct interventions by nurses in reaching and strengthening outcomes.
Prevalence of frailty syndrome in old people in a hospital institution
Authors: Oliveira Daniela Ramos , Bettinelli Luiz Antonio , Pasqualotti Adriano , Corso Débora , Brock Felipe , Erdmann Alacoque Lorenzini
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: to measure the prevalence of frailty syndrome in elderly inpatients in a hospital institution. METHODS: cross-sectional study using a sample of 99 subjects aged 65 or older, hospitalized in the month of November/2010 in São Vicente de Paulo Hospital in Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul state (RS). Data were collected regarding the phenotype of the frailty, along with social and demographic, clinical and anthropometric information. RESULTS: the mean age was 74.5±6.8 years and 50 (50.5%) were women. 4% were classified as non-frail, 49 (49.5%) as pre-frail and 46 (46.5%) as frail. No statistically significant factors were identified that were associated with frailty. CONCLUSIONS: as was expected, the prevalence in this population was found to be high compared to other studies that focused on the community. It is believed that early detection and interdisciplinary intervention can prevent the progression of the condition and reduce the incidence of complications and hospitalization.
Vulnerability to Sexually Transmitted Infections in women who sell sex on the route of prostitution and sex tourism in Central Brazil
Authors: Matos Marcos André de , Caetano Karlla Antonieta Amorim , França Divânia Dias da Silva , Pinheiro Raquel Silva , Moraes Luciene Carneiro de , Teles Sheila Araujo
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: to investigate knowledge on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), STD-related risk behaviors, and signs/symptoms of STDs among female sex workers (FSWs). METHODS: a cross-sectional study was conducted with a probabilistic sample comprising 395 women recruited using a respondent-driven sampling method between 2009 and 2010. The data were collected during face-to-face interviews. RESULTS: most of the participants were young adults, had a low educational level, and had poor knowledge on the transmission paths of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Over one-third of the participants were not able to describe the signs/symptoms of STDs. The prevalence rates of vaginal discharge and wounds/ulcers were 49.0% and 8.6%, respectively, but 41.7% of the women had not sought treatment. CONCLUSION: the results indicate the need for public health policies focusing on the control and prevention of STDs in this population, especially for the FSWs who are active in an important prostitution and sex tourism route in central Brazil.
Factors associated to the imposition of types of violence against women informed in sentry services
Authors: Vieira Luiza Jane Eyre de Souza , Ferreira Renata Carneiro , Moreira Gracyelle Alves Remigio , Gondim Ana Paula Soares , Araujo Maria Alix Leite , Silva Raimunda Magalhães da
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE: to identify the prevalence and the factors associated to the imposition of the different types of violence against women informed in sentry services. METHOD: transversal study accomplished through 939 notification forms of cases of violence against women, referring to the three years from 2006 to 2008 in Fortaleza, Ceará. Univariate and multiple analyses by logistic regression were realized. RESULT: the results showed a positive association between the imposition of types of violence against women with a schooling varying from illiterate to basic education and the aggression which had occurred other times. CONCLUSION: this knowledge contributes to the delineation of specific actions that aim at facing this problem, as well as generates subsidies for adequate attendance proposals and guidance for the victims who call on health services.
Knowledge of users of low-dose oral combined contraceptives about the method
Authors: Américo Camila Félix , Nogueira Paula Sacha Frota , Vieira Rebeca Pinho Romero , Bezerra Cleide Gomes , Moura Escolástica Rejane Ferreira , Lopes Marcos Venícios de Oliveira
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVES: to identify the knowledge of users of combined oral contraceptive about correct use, side effects and complications; to verify the correlation between knowledge about the method with age, education, family income and time of use. METHOD: cross-sectional study performed in Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil, from March to July 2010, with 294 women. Data were collected through interviews. RESULTS: 75% had substantial knowledge about the proper use and side effects and no knowledge about complications. The higher the educational level and family income, the higher the women's knowledge about the correct use of the method. Positive correlation suggests that women who used the method for longer knew more about its side effects. CONCLUSION: there are knowledge gaps about the method, which are influenced by socioeconomic variables and use time.
Medical Relief Mission to the Dominican Republic: “We Don’t Need a Lactation Consultant . . . or Do We?”
Authors: Tapia Vicki
Published: August 2013

The author shares her experiences and observations as part of a medical relief brigade serving in five different bateys (villages) near Monte Cristi in the Dominican Republic in November 2012. She reports many of the common barriers to breastfeeding, along with her reflections
on affecting change in this developing island country. She describes her efforts to promote exclusive breastfeeding, focusing on education.
The Role of Resin Cement on Bond Strength of Glass-fiber Posts Luted Into Root Canals: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of In Vitro Studies
Authors: Sarkis-Onofre R , Skupien JA , Cenci MS , Moraes RR , Pereira-Cenci T
Published: August 2013

Because there are several ways to cement glass-fiber posts (GFPs) into root canals, there is no consensus on the best strategy to achieve high bond strengths. A systematic review was conducted to determine if there is difference in bond strength to dentin between regular and self-adhesive resin cements and to verify the influence of several variables on the retention of GFPs. This report followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. In vitro studies that investigated the bond strength of GFPs luted with self-adhesive and regular resin cements were selected. Searches were carried out in the PubMed and Scopus databases. No publication year or language limit was used, and the last search was done in October 2012. A global comparison was performed between self-adhesive and regular resin cements. Two subgroup analyses were performed: 1) Self-adhesive × Regular resin cement + Etch-and-rinse adhesive and 2) Self-adhesive × Regular resin cement + Self-etch adhesive. The analyses were carried out using fixed-effect and random-effects models. The results showed heterogeneity in all comparisons, and higher bond strength to dentin was identified for self-adhesive cements. Although the articles included in this meta-analysis showed high heterogeneity and high risk of bias, the in vitro literature seems to suggest that use of self-adhesive resin cement could improve the retention of GFPs into root canals.
Antibacterial Potential of the Methanol Stem Bark Extract of Stachytarpheta Indica
Authors: Akuodor Christian Godwin , Udia Monday Pius , Udenze Charles Emeka , Ogbonna John Onyemaechi
Published: August 2013

Objective: There is increasing need for potent antimicrobial agents to tackle the problem of diseases in man. In view of this, the activities of methanol stem bark extract of Stachytarpheta indica was evaluated against some disease causing microorganisms. Method: The activity of the extract against S. aureus, P.aeruginosa, E. coli, S. typhi and Shigella spp was determined using agar diffusion technique. Results: The methanol stem bark extract demonstrated significant activity against the test organisms. The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) of the stem bark extract ranged from 12-60 μg/ml. Conclusion: Further isolation of active compound responsible for the antibacterial activity could be the potential sources of new antibacterial agents. Asian Journal of Medical Science, Volume-4 (2013), Pages 5-10 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v4i4.8248
The Effect of TMPTMA Addition on Electron-beam Irradiated LDPE, EVA and Blend Properties
Authors: Sabet M. , Savory R. M. , Hassan A. , Ratnam C. T.
Published: August 2013

In this work low density polyethylene (LDPE) and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) were blended in the presence of trimethylol propane trimethylacrylate (TMPTMA) (0 to 6 phr). The resultant blends were irradiated with a 3 MeV electron-beam resulting in dosages of 0 to 240 kGy using a rhodotron accelerator system. The effect of radiation exposure on the LDPE/EVA/TMPTMA blend properties were investigated with respect to gel content, tensile strength and elongation up to breakage of the blends. The findings indicate that increasing EVA and TMPTMA content yield tighter network structures through enhanced blend crosslinking, which is a direct consequence of irradiation. For pure EVA significant tensile strength improvements are evident as irradiation increases up to 210 kGy. Irradiated blends exhibit improved tensile strength and elongation at breakage with respect to pure LDPE and EVA. Volume resistivity (VR) and dielectric constant (DC) of the blends were also studied as a function of EVA content, TMPTMA content and radiation dosage. Increasing EVA and TMPTMA content enhances DC and VR values, whereas, increasing irradiation dosage only effects VR values of the blends. The maximum VR value attained in this work corresponds to a radiation dosage of 170 kGy and a blend comprising of 30 wt% of EVA.
Flammability and Thermal Characterization of Aluminum Hydroxide Filled with LDPE
Authors: Sabet M. , Hassan A. , Ratnam C. T.
Published: August 2013

Aluminum hydroxide (ATH), a non-toxic and environmentally friendly flame retardant, was characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The effect of ATH content on flammability properties of LDPE was also determined using limiting oxygen index (LOI) and smoke density test. The thermal characterization studies showed that the effective temperature range for ATH as a flame retardant is 200 to 350°C. In water release test, it was determined that the release of the water by ATH degradation in ATH increased with increasing temperature. The LOI test showed that the flame retardancy of LDPE increased with increasing ATH content and decreasing ATH particle size. The smoke density test proved that addition of ATH reduced effectively the smoke density of a burning LDPE. It was studied in this paper the effect of ATH particle size on thermal, flammability and viscosity of ATH filled with LDPE.
Cadmium Modifies the Cell Cycle and Apoptotic Profiles of Human Breast Cancer Cells Treated with 5-Fluorouracil
Authors: Asara Yolande , Marchal Juan , Carrasco Esther , Boulaiz Houria , Solinas Giuliana , Bandiera Pasquale , Garcia Maria , Farace Cristiano , Montella Andrea , Madeddu Roberto
Published: August 2013

Industrialisation, the proximity of factories to cities, and human work activities have led to a disproportionate use of substances containing heavy metals, such as cadmium (Cd), which may have deleterious effects on human health. Carcinogenic effects of Cd and its relationship with breast cancer, among other tumours, have been reported. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a fluoropyrimidine anticancer drug used to treat solid tumours of the colon, breast, stomach, liver, and pancreas. The purpose of this work was to study the effects of Cd on cell cycle, apoptosis, and gene and protein expression in MCF-7 breast cancer cells treated with 5-FU. Cd altered the cell cycle profile, and its effects were greater when used either alone or in combination with 5-FU compared with 5-FU alone. Cd significantly suppressed apoptosis of MCF-7 cells pre-treated with 5-FU. Regarding gene and protein expression, bcl2 expression was mainly upregulated by all treatments involving Cd. The expression of caspase 8 and caspase 9 was decreased by most of the treatments and at all times evaluated. C-myc expression was increased by all treatments involving Cd, especially 5-FU plus Cd at the half time of treatment. Cd plus 5-FU decreased cyclin D1 and increased cyclin A1 expression. In conclusion, our results indicate that exposure to Cd blocks the anticancer effects of 5-FU in MCF-7 cells. These results could have important clinical implications in patients treated with 5-FU-based therapies and who are exposed to high levels of Cd.
On Functional Module Detection in Metabolic Networks
Authors: Koch Ina , Ackermann Jörg
Published: August 2013

Functional modules of metabolic networks are essential for understanding the metabolism of an organism as a whole. With the vast amount of experimental data and the construction of complex and large-scale, often genome-wide, models, the computer-aided identification of functional modules becomes more and more important. Since steady states play a key role in biology, many methods have been developed in that context, for example, elementary flux modes, extreme pathways, transition invariants and place invariants. Metabolic networks can be studied also from the point of view of graph theory, and algorithms for graph decomposition have been applied for the identification of functional modules. A prominent and currently intensively discussed field of methods in graph theory addresses the Q-modularity. In this paper, we recall known concepts of module detection based on the steady-state assumption, focusing on transition-invariants (elementary modes) and their computation as minimal solutions of systems of Diophantine equations. We present the Fourier-Motzkin algorithm in detail. Afterwards, we introduce the Q-modularity as an example for a useful non-steady-state method and its application to metabolic networks. To illustrate and discuss the concepts of invariants and Q-modularity, we apply a part of the central carbon metabolism in potato tubers (Solanum tuberosum) as running example. The intention of the paper is to give a compact presentation of known steady-state concepts from a graph-theoretical viewpoint in the context of network decomposition and reduction and to introduce the application of Q-modularity to metabolic Petri net models.
Involvement of Endogenous Retroviruses in Prion Diseases
Authors: Lee Yun-Jung , Jeong Byung-Hoon , Choi Eun-Kyung , Kim Yong-Sun
Published: August 2013

For millions of years, vertebrates have been continuously exposed to infection by retroviruses. Ancient retroviral infection of germline cells resulted in the formation and accumulation of inherited retrovirus sequences in host genomes. These inherited retroviruses are referred to as endogenous retroviruses (ERVs), and recent estimates have revealed that a significant portion of animal genomes is made up of ERVs. Although various host factors have suppressed ERV activation, both positive and negative functions have been reported for some ERVs in normal and abnormal physiological conditions, such as in disease states. Similar to other complex diseases, ERV activation has been observed in prion diseases, and this review will discuss the potential involvement of ERVs in prion diseases.
Electrochemical and Spectroelectrochemical Properties of a New Donor–Acceptor Polymer Containing 3,4-Dialkoxythiophene and 2,1,3-Benzothiadiazole Units
Authors: Calderon Erika , Dangate Milind , Manfredi Norberto , Abbotto Alessandro , Salamone Matteo , Ruffo Riccardo , Mari Claudio
Published: August 2013

A new heteroarylene-vinylene donor-acceptor low bandgap polymer, the poly(DEHT-V-BTD), containing vinylene-spaced efficient donor (dialkoxythiophene) and acceptor (benzothiadiazole) moieties, is presented. Electropolymerization has been carried out by several electrochemical techniques and the results are compared. In particular, the pulsed potentiostatic method was able to provide layers with sufficient amounts of material. Cyclic voltammetries showed reversible behavior towards both p- and n-doping. The HOMO, LUMO, and bandgap energies were estimated to be −5.3, −3.6 and 1.8 eV, respectively. In situ UV-Vis measurements have established that the presence of the vinylene group stabilizes the formation of polaronic charge carriers even at high doping levels.
Synthesis of Bimetallic Platinum Nanoparticles for Biosensors
Authors: Leteba Gerard , Lang Candace
Published: August 2013

The use of magnetic nanomaterials in biosensing applications is growing as a consequence of their remarkable properties; but controlling the composition and shape of metallic nanoalloys is problematic when more than one precursor is required for wet chemistry synthesis. We have developed a successful simultaneous reduction method for preparation of near-spherical platinum-based nanoalloys containing magnetic solutes. We avoided particular difficulties in preparing platinum nanoalloys containing Ni, Co and Fe by the identification of appropriate synthesis temperatures and chemistry. We used transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to show that our particles have a narrow size distribution, uniform size and morphology, and good crystallinity in the as-synthesized condition. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirms the coexistence of Pt with the magnetic solute in a face-centered cubic (FCC) solid solution.
Sensor Networks for Optimal Target Localization with Bearings-Only Measurements in Constrained Three-Dimensional Scenarios
Authors: Moreno-Salinas David , Pascoal Antonio , Aranda Joaquin
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we address the problem of determining the optimal geometric configuration of an acoustic sensor network that will maximize the angle-related information available for underwater target positioning. In the set-up adopted, a set of autonomous vehicles carries a network of acoustic units that measure the elevation and azimuth angles between a target and each of the receivers on board the vehicles. It is assumed that the angle measurements are corrupted by white Gaussian noise, the variance of which is distance-dependent. Using tools from estimation theory, the problem is converted into that of minimizing, by proper choice of the sensor positions, the trace of the inverse of the Fisher Information Matrix (also called the Cramer-Rao Bound matrix) to determine the sensor configuration that yields the minimum possible covariance of any unbiased target estimator. It is shown that the optimal configuration of the sensors depends explicitly on the intensity of the measurement noise, the constraints imposed on the sensor configuration, the target depth and the probabilistic distribution that defines the prior uncertainty in the target position. Simulation examples illustrate the key results derived.
Trust in Vaccines: Why It Takes More than Good Faith
Authors: Begg Norman
Published: August 2013

This Vaccines issue on “Confidence in Vaccines” provides sound evidence through multiple perspectives of life-saving impacts when vaccination programs are effectively implemented in a population. Yet there remain challenges to achieving this impact, including scientific, medical, manufacturing, policy-related and logistical issues. Additionally, socio-cultural, religious and political agendas can come into play, taking public health hostage and sometimes allowing the circulation of myths regarding vaccination. All of these challenges play a role in public confidence in vaccines and vaccination. What we trust, we embrace. What we do not trust, we do not embrace.