bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aquaporin-1 Expression in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Overlying Retinal Drusen
Authors: Tran Thuy Linh , Bek Toke , la Cour Morten , Prause Jan Ulrik , Hamann Steffen , Heegaard Steffen
Published: February 2016

Purpose: In the outer retina, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) results in reduced hydraulic conductivity in Bruch's membrane, possibly leading to altered water transport in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. We hypothesize that RPE cells may express aquaporin-1 (AQP1) to compensate for these changes. Therefore, we wanted to investigate the expression of AQP1 in RPE cells of human eyes with age-related maculopathy (ARM) and AMD, and eyes with tumour-associated drusen. Methods: Nine human eyes with ARM, 6 eyes with AMD and 9 eyes with choroidal malignant melanoma were examined for immunoreactivity to AQP1. AQP1 labelling in the RPE cells was evaluated for each drusen and grouped according to size and AQP1 labelling. AQP1 labelling in the RPE outside drusen was also evaluated. Results: AQP1 labelling was observed in the apical membrane of the RPE cells situated above drusen in all three groups. There was a significant association between AQP1 labelling and drusen size (p < 0.001), and AQP1 labelling was more frequently observed in large drusen. Conclusion: AQP1 was expressed in RPE cells covering drusen but not in RPE cells outside drusen. We suggest that AQP1 expression is upregulated in the cell membranes of RPE cells above drusen in order to alleviate the increased need for fluid transport across the growing drusen.
Irisin is Associated with Urotensin II and Protein Energy Wasting in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: He Wan-Yu , Wu Fei , Pang Xin-Xin , Chen Guan-Jong , A La-Ta , He Lian , Wang Song , Tang Chao-Shu , Zhang Ai-Hua
Published: February 2016

Aims/Introduction: Irisin is a newly identified myokine which can promote energy expenditure. Urotensin II (UII) is identified as the most potent mammalian vasoconstrictor to date. Previous studies showed that UII can aggravate insulin resistance while irisin alleviate insulin resistance. Through this study, it is our aim to elucidate if UII can induce insulin resistance and also have an association with the irisin level in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Materials and Methods: One hundred and twenty-eight patients on maintenance hemodialysis treatment and forty healthy subjects were enrolled in this study. Blood irisin concentrations and UII concentrations were measured by ELISA and RIA respectively. The body composition was analyzed by bioelectrical impedance. Results: The serum irisin levels and UII levels were both significantly lower in HD patients in comparison to that of the healthy subjects. The serum irisin levels were lower in HD patients with protein energy wasting than those of the patients without protein energy wasting. The independent determinants of circulating Ln (irisin) (the natural logarithm of irisin) were UII lean body mass and patients with protein energy wasting. Conclusions: Our results are the first to provide the clinical evidence of the association among irisin, UII, and protein energy wasting. Our results hint that UII and protein energy wasting might inhibit the release or synthesis of irisin from skeletal muscles in HD patients.
Limitations of N-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in the Diagnosis of Heart Disease among Cancer Patients Who Present with Cardiac or Pulmonary Symptoms
Authors: Wieshammer Siegfried , Dreyhaupt Jens , Müller Dirk , Momm Felix , Jakob Andreas
Published: February 2016

Objectives: Recognizing heart disease is relevant to oncologists because cancer patients are at an increased risk of cardiac mortality due to shared risk factors and the adverse effects of cancer therapy. This study assessed the extent to which the measurement of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) aids in the diagnosis of heart disease in addition to a history of coronary artery disease and the presence of atrial fibrillation (composite test). The NT- proBNP cutoff value was 100 pg/ml. Methods: A series of 583 consecutive cancer patients (68.4 ± 11.0 years) who were referred because of cardiac or pulmonary symptoms prospectively underwent a diagnostic work-up. Heart disease was diagnosed if at least one of the following conditions was present: (a) history of coronary artery disease, (b) atrial fibrillation, (c) impaired left ventricular systolic function, (d) significant valvular disease, (e) pulmonary hypertension, or (f) left ventricular hypertrophy. Results: Except for (a), all 6 conditions were associated with NT-proBNP >100 pg/ml. The sensitivity/specificity values of the composite test were 0.92/0.50 for any heart disease. Several extracardiac covariates were associated with NT-proBNP >100 pg/ml, which contributed to the low test specificity. Conclusions: The low specificity of NT-proBNP limits its value for the diagnosis of heart disease in cancer patients.
Assessment of Cervicovaginal Cancer Antigen 125 Levels: A Preliminary Study for Endometrial Cancer Screening
Authors: Calis Pinar , Yuce Kunter , Basaran Derman , Salman Coskun
Published: February 2016

Aim: We primarily aimed to compare the levels of serum and cervicovaginal cancer antigen 125 (CA 125) in women with and without endometrial carcinoma in order to reveal whether cervicovaginal CA 125 could be used as a non-invasive method. Methods: A preliminary case-control study was designed. The study group consisted of patients who were operated for endometrial adenocarcinoma or endometrial intraepithelial neoplasia. The control group consisted of patients who underwent surgery for benign gynecological diseases. Serum and cervicovaginal secretions were immediately collected before surgery to compare levels of CA 125. Results: The mean cervicovaginal CA 125 levels in patients with endometrial cancer and controls were 1,598.1 ± 1,691.1 versus 947.0 ± 1,282.7 U/ml, respectively (p = 0.016). Whereas area under receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.62 for serum CA 125, it was 0.68 for cervicovaginal CA 125. The optimal threshold of CA 125 in cervicovaginal secretion was calculated to be 575 U/ml, which detected endometrial precancer or cancer with sensitivity of 78% and specificity of 57%. The positive and negative predictive values for this threshold were 38.7 and 88.2%, respectively. Conclusion: In conclusion, detection of CA 125 in cervicovaginal secretion has a potential role for the non-invasive screening of endometrial precancers and cancers.
Sudden death, aortic rupture in horses, literature review, case studies reported and risk factors
Authors: Briceño Abelardo Morales , Mendez Aniceto , Brewer Kimberly , Hughes Charlie , Tobin Thomas
Published: February 2016

As mortes súbitas de cavalos em várias provas equestres têm sido atribuídas a doenças respiratórias e cardiovasculares agudas e crônicas. O objetivo deste estudo foi efetuar uma revisão de literatura da ruptura da aorta em cavalos analisando estudos de caso e estabelecendo os possíveis fatores de risco. Na revisão da literatura no período de 28 anos (1986-2014) foram localizados 137 casos de ruptura da aorta em cavalos com aproximadamente cinco cavalos morrendo por essa causa por ano. Histologicamente, são observadas alterações macroscópicas discretas degenerativas na camada íntima da aorta. A avaliação histológica na porção inicial da aorta do coração evidencia alterações degenerativas com perda de continuidade e distribuição das fibras elásticas. Fatores de risco para a ruptura da aorta dos cavalos são: ruptura espontânea associada com hipertensão, lesão vascular pré-existente (aneurisma), cardiomiopatia dilatada ou hipertrófica, níveis de cobre no endotélio, fatores genéticos, tais como a consanguinidade na criação, toxicologia e aspectos farmacológicos. A ruptura aórtica mostra semelhança com hemorragia pulmonar induzida pelo exercício. Em conclusão, alterações degenerativas discretas das fibras elásticas da íntima da aorta parecem predispor a ruptura da parede da aorta, no momento da pressão máxima de sangue durante o exercício determinando o consequente colapso e morte do cavalo atleta.
Detection, quantification and genetic variability of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae from apparently healthy and pneumonic swine
Authors: Pulgarón Yaima Burgher , Marques Lucas Miranda , Campos Angélica Cristine de Almeida , Rodriguez Joan Peña , Márquez Odaylin Plasencia , Ortiz Arianna Duque , Rivero Evelyn Lobo , Timenetsky Jorge
Published: February 2016

As diferenças moleculares entre as estirpes de Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae presentes em pulmões de suínos com pneumonia tem sido estudadas. Porém, estudos comparativos relativos as estirpes presentes nos suínos aparentemente saudáveis não foram levados a cabo. O objetivo do estudo foi a detecção, quantificação e analise molecular de M. hyopneumoniae nos pulmões suínos com e sem lesões pneumônicas. Para a detecção de M. hyopneumoniae usaramse o PCR Multiplo (YAMAGUTI, 2008), o PCR a Tempo Real (STRAIT et al., 2008) e a amplificação de múltiplo VNTR (VRANCKX et al., 2011). A caracterização molecular das estirpes foi realizada mediante a análise do número de copias de VNTR em P97R1, P146R3, H2R1 e H4. O M. hyopneumoniae foi detectado em amostras de suínos saudáveis e pneumônicos e a quantidade de M. hyopneumoniae nas amostras positivas variou com o tipo de ensaio. O maior número de amostras positivas foi identificado pela amplificação de múltiplas VNTR combinado com a eletroforese de capilares. Usando o PCR a Tempo Real, 4.9*104 copias de genoma/mL de M. hyopneumoniae foram detectadas em pulmões aparentemente saudáveis. Uma quantidade média de 3.9*106 copias de genoma/mL de M. hyopneumoniae foi detectada em pulmões pneumônicos. A análise do número de copias de VNTR demonstrou uma elevada variabilidade.
Adição de óleos de copaíba (Copaifera langisdorffii) e sucupira (Pterodon emarginatus) na alimentação de poedeiras: estabilidade lipídica de gema de ovos armazenados em diferentes temperaturas
Authors: Oliveira Geovana Rocha de , Racanicci Aline Mondini Calil , Tanure Candice Bergmann Garcia Silva , Lima Cristiane Bovi de , Souza Thais Chiozzini de , Migotto Dannielle Leonardi , Vieira Afrânio Márcio Corrêa , Stringhini José Henrique
Published: February 2016

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a atividade antioxidante da adição de óleos de copaíba (CP) e sucupira (SC) na alimentação de poedeiras sobre a oxidação lipídica de ovos in natura armazenados em temperatura ambiente (TA) por 30 dias e sob refrigeração (R) a 4ºC por 60 dias, e de gemas cozidas mantidas sob R por 30 dias. As poedeiras foram alimentadas com ração isoproteica (15% PB) e isoenergética (2900 kcal kg-1) à base de milho e farelo de soja, com inclusão de óleo de Copaifera langsdorffii (CP) nas proporções de 0,03; 0,06 e 0,09% ou de Pterodon emarginatus (SC) nas proporções de 0,03 e 0,06%, mais um controle negativo (CN). Foram coletados 667 ovos às 37 semanas de idade e distribuídos aleatoriamente nas diferentes condições de armazenamento (TA ou R). A oxidação dos lipídios de ovos in natura foi quantificada em quadruplicata e das gemas cozidas em duplicata, utilizando-se “pool” de 3 gemas/tratamento para as análises de TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances). Os dados foram avaliados adotando um modelo misto e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey em 5% de nível de significância e o período de armazenamento foi considerado como um fator longitudinal, variando de cinco tempos no experimento com gemas cozidas, e nos ovos in natura sob R e em TA (0 a 30 dias), até nove tempos sob R (0 a 60 dias). Foi observado que a adição de óleo de CP e SC não reduziu os valores de TBARS em ovos in natura armazenados em TA e sob R em relação ao CN. No armazenamento de gemas cozidas, a inclusão CP (0,03 e 0,06%) protegeu os lipídios até os 21 dias, mas apresentou efeito pró-oxidante quando suplementado a 0,09%. Concluiu-se que a inclusão de até 0,06% de óleorresina de CP nas rações de poedeiras pode proteger os lipídios da gema cozida contra a oxidação durante o armazenamento refrigerado por até 21 dias. 
c-Kit immunoexpression patterns differ in melanotic and amelanotic canine oral melanomas
Authors: Teixeira Tarso Felipe , Gentile Luciana Boffoni , Roman Marco Antonio Leon , Gioso Marco Antonio , Dagli Maria Lucia Zaidan
Published: February 2016

Melanomas são as mais frequentes neoplasias malignas da cavidade bucal de cães. Sabe-se que a proliferação de células e expressão de conexina diferem em melanomas melanóticos e amelanóticos da cavidade bucal de cães. Este estudo analisou a expressão da proteína c-Kit em melanomas melanóticos e amelanóticos da cavidade bucal canina. Um total de 34 melanomas bucais caninos (19 melanóticos e 15 amelanóticos) foram coletados. Os melanomas amelanóticos apresentaram evolução mais rápida e maior incidência de metástase. Foi constatado um número significativamente maior de células positivas para c-Kit em neoplasias amelanóticas. Além disso, a intensidade de imunomarcação de c-Kit foi predominantemente mais forte em melanomas amelanóticos. Estes resultados confirmam um papel potencial para c-Kit em melanomas orais caninos, com diferenças claras em padrões de expressão entre os dois tipos histológicos de tumor, melanóticos e amelanóticos. Este trabalho destaca a importância de um estudo detalhado das mutações c-Kit em melanomas orais caninos para ser possível a melhor compreensão dos mecanismos moleculares envolvidos no desenvolvimento da doença.
Reproductive toxicity of Samanea tubulosa on rats
Authors: Araújo Maria Rafaella Luz de , Nunes Karlla De Freitas , Costa Larissa Vieira , Figueiredo Benta Natânia Silva , Mariano-Souza Domenica Palomaris , Ramos Adriano Tony , Moro Sandro Estevan , Paiva Joseilson Alves de , Spinosa Helenice De Souza , Maruo Viviane Mayumi
Published: February 2016

Samanea tubulosa é uma planta utilizada na fitoterapia e na alimentação animal. Entretanto, a ingestão de vagens de S. tubulosa tem sido associada à ocorrência de abortos em bovinos. Assim, o objetivo do trabalho foi investigar os efeitos da dieta contendo 5% de vagens de S. tubulosa em ratos machos e fêmeas Wistar. A dieta foi administrada para ratos machos (n = 10) por 60 dias antes do acasalamento. Ratos fêmeas (n = 10) receberam o tratamento por 30 dias, durante a coabitação e do dia gestacional (GD) 0 ao GD 20. As fêmeas tratadas foram acasaladas com ratos não tratados. Em machos, o consumo da planta causou diminuição no consumo de ração e redução de 20% no índice de fertilidade. A prole de machos tratados apresentou menor ganho de peso e comprimento cabeça cauda. Fêmeas tratadas com a planta apresentaram aumento do consumo de ração e água e do peso corporal. Ainda, foram observadas diminuição na fertilidade, fecundidade e no índice de gestação e aumento do peso da placenta e no número médio de corpos lúteos. Desse modo, em decorrência aos possíveis efeitos tóxicos sistêmicos e reprodutivos, o consumo prolongado de S. tubulosa não é recomendado para fins fitoterápicos ou alimentar.
Glycosphingolipids on Human Myeloid Cells Stabilize E-Selectin–Dependent Rolling in the Multistep Leukocyte Adhesion Cascade
Authors: Mondal Nandini , Stolfa Gino , Antonopoulos Aristotelis , Zhu Yuqi , Wang Shuen-Shiuan , Buffone Alexander , Atilla-Gokcumen G. Ekin , Haslam Stuart M. , Dell Anne , Neelamegham Sriram
Published: February 2016

Objective—

Recent studies suggest that the E-selectin ligands expressed on human leukocytes may differ from those in other species, particularly mice. To elaborate on this, we evaluated the impact of glycosphingolipids expressed on human myeloid cells in regulating E-selectin-mediated cell adhesion.

Approach and Results—

A series of modified human cell lines and primary neutrophils were created by targeting UDP-Glucose Ceramide Glucosyltransferase using either lentivirus-delivered shRNA or CRISPR-Cas9-based genome editing. Enzymology and mass spectrometry confirm that the modified cells had reduced or abolished glucosylceramide biosynthesis. Glycomics profiling showed that UDP-Glucose Ceramide Glucosyltransferase disruption also increased prevalence of bisecting N-glycans and reduced overall sialoglycan expression on leukocyte N- and O-glycans. Microfluidics-based flow chamber studies demonstrated that both the UDP-Glucose Ceramide Glucosyltransferase knockouts and knockdowns display ≈60% reduction in leukocyte rolling and firm adhesion on E-selectin bearing stimulated endothelial cells, without altering cell adhesion to P-selectin. Consistent with the concept that the glycosphingolipids support slow rolling and the transition to firm arrest, inhibiting UDP-Glucose Ceramide Glucosyltransferase activity resulted in frequent leukocyte detachment events, skipping motion, and reduced diapedesis across the endothelium. Cells bearing truncated O- and N-glycans also sustained cell rolling on E-selectin, although their ability to be recruited from free fluid flow was diminished.

Conclusions—

Glycosphingolipids likely contribute to human myeloid cell adhesion to E-selectin under fluid shear, particularly the transition of rolling cells to firm arrest.
Trends in Age of First-Ever Stroke Following Increased Incidence and Life Expectancy in a Low-Income Chinese Population
Authors: Wang Jinghua , Bai Lingling , Shi Min , Yang Li , An Zhongping , Li Bin , Zhao Wenjuan , Gu Hongfei , Zhan Changqing , Tu Jun , Ning Xianjia
Published: February 2016

Background and Purpose—

We investigated secular trends in the age of stroke onset and stroke incidence in a low-income population in rural China.

Methods—

The study population was recruited from a population-based stroke surveillance study conducted in a township in Tianjin, China, from 1992 to 2014. The trends in mean age and incidence of first-ever stroke were assessed by sex and stroke subtype. Risk factor surveys were conducted in the same population in both 1991 and 2011.

Results—

A total of 1053 patients experienced first-ever stroke from 1992 to 2014. The mean age of stroke onset in men significantly decreased by 0.28 years annually overall, by 0.56 years for intracerebral hemorrhage, and by 0.22 years for ischemic stroke (
P
<0.05). However, a similar trend was not observed in women. The age-standardized first-ever stroke incidence in the same population significantly increased across sex and stroke subtypes, increased by 6.3% overall, 5.5% for men, 7.9% for women, 4.6% for intracerebral hemorrhage, and 7.3% for ischemic stroke (
P
<0.05) during 1992 to 2014. Concurrently, the prevalence of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, current smoking, and alcohol consumption increased significantly in young and middle-aged adults from 1991 to 2011.

Conclusions—

The age of stroke onset tends to be younger among low-income population in China after the dramatic increased incidence of stroke during the gradual extension of life expectancy of population in China. These findings suggested that stroke burden will continue to increase in the long time, unless the risk factors in low-income populations are effectively controlled.
“To Improve upon Hints of Things”
Authors: Schilt Cornelis J. (Kees-Jan)
Published: February 2016

When Isaac Newton died in 1727 he left a rich legacy in terms of draft manuscripts, encompassing a variety of topics: natural philosophy, mathematics, alchemy, theology, and chronology, as well as papers relating to his career at the Mint. One thing that immediately strikes us is the textuality of Newton’s legacy: images are sparse. Regarding his scholarly endeavours we witness the same practice. Newton’s extensive drafts on theology and chronology do not contain a single illustration or map. Today we have all of Newton’s draft manuscripts as witnesses of his working methods, as well as access to a significant number of books from his own library. Drawing parallels between Newton’s reading practices and his natural philosophical and scholarly work, this paper seeks to understand Newton’s recondite writing and publishing politics.
Hieracium hypochoeroides subsp. cilentanum (Asteraceae), a new taxon from S Italy
Authors: Di Gristina Emilio , Gottschlich Günter , Raimondo Francesco Maria
Published: February 2016

A new hawkweed taxon from southern Italy, Hieracium hypochoeroides subsp. cilentanum, is described and illustrated. It is endemic to Monte Cervati (Parco Nazionale del Cilento e Vallo di Diano, S Campania). Information on its ecology and taxonomic relationships is provided.
Kingella kingae–Associated Pediatric Osteoarticular Infections
Authors: Al-Qwbani Mohammed , Jiang Nan , Yu Bin
Published: February 2016

This study aimed to summarize clinical experience with Kingella kingae–associated pediatric osteoarticular infections (OAIs). We reviewed 566 cases in the English literature from 2000 to June 2014. More than 80% of the patients were diagnosed between 4 months and 4 years of age, and the male to female ratio was 1.14:1. The most frequent preceding illness was upper respiratory tract infections (82%). The top 3 OAIs types were septic arthritis (73.1%), osteomyelitis (15.7%), and spondylodiscitis (5.4%), and the most affected sites of these types were knee (46%), calcaneus (20%), and L4/5 disc (70%). All cases where polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique was used were PCR positive, no reported cases of positive cultures for K kingae with negative PCR. The duration of antibiotics use ranged from 2 to 4 weeks. Beta-lactam antibiotics were the most frequently used intravenously and orally. The clinical efficacy was favorable.
The Eurotower Strikes Back
Authors: Genovese Federica , Schneider Gerald , Wassmann Pia
Published: February 2016

The 2008 global financial crisis came with fears—and, for some, hopes—that a new wave of public mobilization would emerge in industrialized countries. Especially throughout the European Union (EU), the epicenter of the crisis, large protests were expected. Yet, the energy with which social groups mobilized against the proposed austerity measures quickly fizzled. This article provides new evidence for why this was the case. In line with Neo-Keynesian theory, we argue that the interest rate adjustments and political announcements of the European Central Bank (ECB) limited the potential for mass unrest in the member states of the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) affected by the crisis. We provide evidence for our argument with yearly panel data and a new original data set of monthly political protests between 2001 and 2013. Our analyses support the hypothesis that the ECB was able to successfully assuage dissatisfaction with the limited reform options of the Eurozone member states in the wake of the Eurocrisis.
Effects of training with a passive hand orthosis and games at home in chronic stroke: a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Nijenhuis Sharon M , Prange-Lasonder Gerdienke B , Stienen Arno HA , Rietman Johan S , Buurke Jaap H
Published: February 2016

Objectives:

To compare user acceptance and arm and hand function changes after technology-supported training at home with conventional exercises in chronic stroke. Secondly, to investigate the relation between training duration and clinical changes.

Design:

A randomised controlled trial.

Setting:

Training at home, evaluation at research institute.

Subjects:

Twenty chronic stroke patients with severely to mildly impaired arm and hand function.

Interventions:

Participants were randomly assigned to six weeks (30 minutes per day, six days a week) of self-administered home-based arm and hand training using either a passive dynamic wrist and hand orthosis combined with computerised gaming exercises (experimental group) or prescribed conventional exercises from an exercise book (control group).

Main measures:

Main outcome measures are the training duration for user acceptance and the Action Research Arm Test for arm and hand function. Secondary outcomes are the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory, Fugl-Meyer assessment, Motor Activity Log, Stroke Impact Scale and grip strength.

Results:

The control group reported a higher training duration (189 versus 118 minutes per week, P = 0.025). Perceived motivation was positive and equal between groups ( P = 0.935). No differences in clinical outcomes over training between groups were found (P ⩾ 0.165). Changes in Box and Block Test correlated positively with training duration ( P = 0.001).

Conclusions:

Both interventions were accepted. An additional benefit of technology-supported arm and hand training over conventional arm and hand exercises at home was not demonstrated. Training duration in itself is a major contributor to arm and hand function improvements.
Play-based interventions improve physical function for people with adult-acquired brain injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Saywell Nicola , Taylor Nick , Rodgers Emma , Skinner Luke , Boocock Mark
Published: February 2016

Objective:

To undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effectiveness of play-based interventions compared to traditional therapy in rehabilitation of adults with adult-acquired brain injury.

Data sources:

The search was performed using Medline; Cinahl Plus; Health Source (Nursing/Academic Edition); Psychology and behavioural sciences collection; Biomedical reference collection (basic).

Review methods:

Studies included were randomised controlled trials that investigated the effect of play-based interventions on physical function of adults with adult acquired brain injury. Two independent reviewers identified eligible studies and assessed methodological quality using a modified Downs and Black. Meta-analysis compared standardised differences in means, to determine effect sizes for grouped functional outcome measures. The GRADE scoring system was used to determine the level of clinical evidence.

Results:

Thirty studies met the inclusion criteria, 13 were considered high quality and 17 moderate quality. Studies predominantly involved post-stroke participants, with only three studies including participants with traumatic brain injury. When compared to traditional therapy, dose-matched studies of play-based interventions showed a significant effect on independence (Effect size (ES) = 0.6) and physical performance (ES = 0.43), as measured using the Fugl –Meyer. For non-dose matched studies, play-based interventions showed a significant improvement for balance (ES = 0.76) compared with traditional therapy. In all studies that measured participant enjoyment, play-based therapy was rated as more enjoyable than traditional therapy.

Conclusion:

Play-based interventions for people with adult acquired brain injury are more effective in improving balance and independence, which may be due to them being more enjoyable than traditional therapy.
Presence of subpleural pulmonary interstitial emphysema as an indication of single or multiple alveolar ruptures on CT in patients with spontaneous pneumomediastinum
Authors: Kim Hye Rin , Yoo Seung Min , Lee Hwa Yeon , Han Jin Hee , Frazier Aletta A , White Charles S
Published: February 2016

Background

There are no previous reports regarding the computed tomography (CT) findings of subpleural pulmonary interstitial emphysema (PIE) in patients with spontaneous pneumomediastinum.

Purpose

To evaluate CT findings of subpleural PIE that may indicate a direct site of terminal alveolar rupture.

Material and Methods

We retrospectively evaluated chest CT and the medical records of 34 patients with spontaneous pneumomediastinum. Subpleural PIE was defined as the presence of an interstitial air collection in the subpleural portion of the lungs excluding the bronchovascular bundle.

Results

Subpleural PIE on CT was identified in six of 34 patients (17.6%) with spontaneous pneumomediastinum. In four of these (66.7%), subpleural PIE was present in multiple lobes suggesting multiple simultaneous ruptures of terminal alveoli. The shape of subpleural PIE was elongated linear (4/6), branching and linear (1/6), and elliptical (1/6).

Conclusion

The presence of subpleural PIE on CT suggests an origin of pneumomediastinal air from alveolar rupture.
A Comparative Review of Animal Models of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Infection
Authors: Baseler L. , de Wit E. , Feldmann H.
Published: February 2016

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) was initially isolated from a Saudi Arabian man with fatal pneumonia. Since the original case in 2012, MERS-CoV infections have been reported in >1500 humans, and the case fatality rate is currently 35%. This lineage C betacoronavirus has been reported to cause a wide range of disease severity in humans, ranging from asymptomatic to progressive fatal pneumonia that may be accompanied by renal or multiorgan failure. Although the clinical presentation of human MERS-CoV infection has been documented, many facets of this emerging disease are still unknown and could be studied with animal models. Several animal models of MERS-CoV have been developed, including New Zealand white rabbits, transduced or transgenic mice that express human dipeptidyl peptidase 4, rhesus macaques, and common marmosets. This review provides an overview of the current state of knowledge on human MERS-CoV infections, the probable origin of MERS-CoV, and the available animal models of MERS-CoV infection. Evaluation of the benefits and limitations of these models will aid in appropriate model selection for studying viral pathogenesis and transmission, as well as for testing vaccines and antivirals against MERS-CoV.
Age-Related Changes in Skeletal Muscle of Cattle
Authors: Costagliola A. , Wojcik S. , Pagano T. B. , De Biase D. , Russo V. , Iovane V. , Grieco E. , Papparella S. , Paciello O.
Published: February 2016

Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, is a multifactorial condition that represents a major healthcare concern for the elderly population. Although its morphologic features have been extensively studied in humans, animal models, and domestic and wild animals, only a few reports about spontaneous sarcopenia exist in other long-lived animals. In this work, muscle samples from 60 healthy Podolica-breed old cows (aged 15–23 years) were examined and compared with muscle samples from 10 young cows (3–6 years old). Frozen sections were studied through standard histologic and histoenzymatic procedures, as well as by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and Western blot analysis. The most prominent age-related myopathic features seen in the studied material included angular fiber atrophy (90% of cases), mitochondrial alterations (ragged red fibers, 70%; COX-negative fibers, 60%), presence of vacuolated fibers (75%), lymphocytic (predominantly CD8+) inflammation (40%), and type II selective fiber atrophy (40%). Immunohistochemistry revealed increased expression of major histocompatibility complex I in 36 cases (60%) and sarcoplasmic accumulations of β-amyloid precursor protein–positive material in 18 cases (30%). In aged cows, muscle atrophy was associated with accumulation of myostatin. Western blot analysis indicated increased amount of both proteins—myostatin and β-amyloid precursor protein—in muscles of aged animals compared with controls. These findings confirm the presence of age-related morphologic changes in cows similar to human sarcopenia and underline the possible role of amyloid deposition and subsequent inflammation in muscle senescence.
Products as Affective Modifiers of Identities
Authors: Shank Daniel B. , Lulham Rohan
Published: February 2016

Are salesclerks seen as better, more powerful, or more active when they drive Mustangs? What about entrepreneurs? What about driving a mid-sized car? Intuitively, we have ideas about these, but much of the research on the affective nature of products is on purchasing, desires, and self-fulfillment. Drawing on symbolic interactionism, we argue that people’s association with products has some basis in the impression management of their identity. For this to occur, there must be some cultural consensus about the way that products modify identities. Drawing on affect control theory’s (ACT) methodology and equations, we measure the goodness, powerfulness, and activeness of several products, identities, and the associated product-modified identities to explore how products function as affective modifiers of identities. We find consistent effects across several types of technology products, whereby products pull the modified identity in the direction of the products’ affective qualities. Support is established for the ACT equations that predict how traits modify identities as also having utility for predicting how products modify identities. This suggests that the opening questions can be answered empirically by measuring cultural-specific sentiments of the identity and the product and by developing equations to predict the identity modification process.
A contact zone: The turtle commons of the Western Caribbean
Authors: Crawford Sharika D , Márquez-Pérez Ana Isabel
Published: February 2016

Turtle fishing has a long history in the Caribbean. Early Caribbean accounts from New World sailors and adventurers noted an abundance of the marine reptile, which quickly became desired for its delicious meat and beautiful shell. Nowhere was the presence of sea turtle more pronounced than in the adjacent banks, cays and reefs of the Western Caribbean, where Europeans also noted the abilities developed by the indigenous peoples of the region to capture them. By the mid-eighteenth century, English-speaking inhabitants from the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Nicaragua and the Colombian islands of San Andrés and Old Providence took to the sea in search of green and hawksbill turtles. In doing so, they created a robust maritime commerce and distinctive seafaring culture, which continues to exist in these communities. In this article, we argue that the turtle trade facilitated the creation and recreation of a dynamic contact zone of ongoing transnational and cross-cultural encounters among indigenous, European and Afro-Caribbean inhabitants.
‘In apparent disagreement with all law of nations in the world’: Negotiating neutrality for shipping and trade during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars
Authors: Marzagalli Silvia , Müller Leos
Published: February 2016

This Forum deals with maritime trade and shipping conducted by three neutral maritime states in the French Revolutionary Wars: Sweden, Denmark and the United States. The five contributions, based on specific cases of neutral shipping, illustrate the complementarity of neutral and belligerent trade and shipping, and so the significance of neutrality for the continuity of commerce in wartime. The introduction discusses eighteenth-century concepts of neutrality, as neutrals and belligerents understood it. Moreover, it provides a background narrative of the French Revolutionary Wars from the perspective of these three neutral states.
Hypophosphatemia, Hypomagnesemia, and Hypokalemia in Pediatric Patients Before and During Exclusive Individualized Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Hortencio Taís Daiene Russo , Nogueira Roberto José Negrao , de Lima Marson Fernando Augusto , Ribeiro Antonio Fernando
Published: February 2016

Background:Hypophosphatemia, hypomagnesemia, and hypokalemia occur in patients receiving parenteral nutrition (PN), mainly when the body's stores are depleted due to fasting or inflammation. Although these disorders are potentially fatal, few studies have reported the incidence in the pediatric population.Methods:This study evaluated, in a historical cohort of pediatric patients, the prevalence of hypophosphatemia, hypokalemia, and hypomagnesaemia until 48 hours before initiation of PN infusion (P1) and from days 1–4 (P2) and days 5–7 (P3) of PN infusion and investigated if malnutrition, calories, and protein infusion were correlated to these disorders.Results:Malnutrition was present in 32.8% (n = 119) of the subjects; 66.4% of the patients were in the pediatric intensive care unit. Survival rate was 86.6%. P1 had the highest prevalence of mineral disorders, with 54 events (58.1%; P2, n = 35, 37.6%; P3, n = 4, 4.3%). Hypokalemia events were related to malnutrition (odds ratio, 2.79; 95% confidence interval, 1.09–7.14;P= .045). In the first 7 days, infused calories were below the amount recommended by current guidelines in up to 84.9% of patients, and protein infused was adequate in up to 75.7%. Protein infused above the recommendation in the first 4 days was related to hypomagnesaemia (odds ratio, 5.66; 95% confidence interval, 1.24–25.79;P= .033).Conclusion:Hypophosphatemia, hypokalemia, and hypomagnesemia were frequent in hospitalized pediatric patients before and during the first 4 days of PN infusion. Patients with malnutrition had more chances of having hypokalemia, and those who received high protein infusion had an increased chance of developing hypomagnesemia.
Refeeding Low Weight Hospitalized Adolescents With Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: O'Connor Graeme , Nicholls Dasha , Hudson Lee , Singhal Atul
Published: February 2016

Background:Refeeding patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) is associated with high morbidity and mortality. A lack of evidence from interventional studies has hindered refeeding practice and led to worldwide disparities in management recommendations. In the first randomized controlled trial in this area, we tested the hypothesis that refeeding adolescents with AN with a higher energy intake than what many guidelines recommend improved anthropometric outcomes without adversely affecting cardiac and biochemical markers associated with refeeding.Materials and Methods:Participants aged 10–16 years with a body mass index (BMI) <78% of the median (mBMI) for age and sex were recruited from 6 UK hospitals and randomly allocated to start refeeding at 1200 kcal/d (n = 18, intervention) or 500 kcal/d (n = 18, control).Results:Compared with controls, adolescents randomized to high energy intake had greater weight gain (mean difference between groups after 10 days of refeeding, –1.2% mBMI; 95% confidence interval, –2.4% to 0.0%;P= .05), but randomized groups did not differ statistically in QTc interval and other outcomes. The nadir in postrefeeding phosphate concentration was significantly related to percentage mBMI at the start of refeeding (baseline;P= .04) and baseline white blood cell count (P= .005) but not to baseline energy intake (P= .08).Conclusions:Refeeding adolescents with AN with a higher energy intake was associated with greater weight gain but without an increase in complications associated with refeeding when compared with a more cautious refeeding protocol—thus challenging current refeeding recommendations.
Cardiopulmonary Bypass Without Heparin
Authors: Rehfeldt Kent H. , Barbara David W.
Published: February 2016

Due to familiarity, short half-life, ease of monitoring, and the availability of a reversal agent, heparin remains the anticoagulant of choice for cardiac operations requiring cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). However, occasionally patients require CPB but should not receive heparin, most often because of acute or subacute heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). In these cases, if it is not feasible to wait for the disappearance of HIT antibodies, an alternative anticoagulant must be selected. A number of non-heparin anticoagulant options have been explored. However, current recommendations suggest the use of a direct thrombin inhibitor such as bivalirudin. This review describes the use of heparin alternatives for the conduct of CPB with a focus on the direct thrombin inhibitors.
Perspectives on ‘Choice and Challenge’ in primary schools
Authors: Bragg Sara
Published: February 2016

This article discusses ‘Choice and Challenge’ as a tool for school improvement and as a ‘practicable pedagogy’ that attempts to embody the principles of ‘learning without limits’, rejecting ability grouping and labelling. As considered here, ‘Choice and Challenge’ emerges specifically from practice at the Wroxham School, led by Alison Peacock, which is the subject of the books Creating Learning Without Limits and Assessment for Learning Without Limits. The approach involves teachers providing children with a range of option set at different levels of ‘challenge’ and allowing them to work through the activities themselves, in dialogue with teachers and peers. It aims to motivate children in more enabling ways than grades and ranking, facilitating children’s own reflection on and awareness of themselves as learners in a collaborative and non-competitive environment. It can be seen as inducing change by giving educators a ‘hook’ that delivers positive classroom experiences and thereby encourages openness to the broader philosophy and values on which it rests. The small-scale research project reported on here investigated the implementation of the approach in six primary schools around England. It aims to illuminate some of the issues encountered in doing so, thus stimulating reflection by those wishing to adopt similar approaches to improve schools and enhance social justice.
Id-1, Id-2, and Id-3 co-expression correlates with prognosis in stage I and II lung adenocarcinoma patients treated with surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Antonângelo Leila , Tuma Taila , Fabro Alexandre , Acencio Milena , Terra Ricardo , Parra Edwin , Vargas Francisco , Takagaki Teresa , Capelozzi Vera
Published: February 2016

Inhibitors of DNA binding/inhibitors of differentiation (Id) protein family have been shown to be involved in carcinogenesis. However, the roles of Id during lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) progression remain unclear. Eighty-eight ADC samples were evaluated for Id-1,2,3 level and angiogenesis (CD 34 and VEGF microvessel density) by immunohistochemistry and morphometry. The impact of these markers was tested on follow-up until death or recurrence. A significant difference between tumor and normal tissue was found for Id-1,2,3 expression ( P < 0.01). In addition, high levels of nuclear Id-1 were associated with higher angiogenesis in the tumor stroma ( P < 0.01). Equally significant was the association between patients in T1-stage and low cytoplasmic Id-2, as well as patients in stage-IIb and low Id-3. High cytoplasm Id-3 expression was also directly associated to lymph nodes metastasis ( P = 0.05). Patients at stages I to III, with low Id-1 and Id-3 cytoplasm histoscores showed significant long metastasis-free survival time than those with high Id-1 or Id-3 expression ( P = 0.04). Furthermore, high MVD-CD34 and MVD-VEGF expression were associated with short recurrence-free survival compared to low MVD-CD34 and MVD-VEGF expressions ( P = 0.04). Cox model analyses controlled for age, lymph node metastasis, and adjuvant treatments showed that nuclear Id-1, cytoplasmic Id-3, and MVD-CD34 were significantly associated with survival time. Median score for nuclear Id-1 and cytoplasmic Id-3 divided patients in two groups, being that those with increased Id-1 and Id-3 presented higher risk of death. Ids showed an independent prognostic value in patients with lung ADC, regardless of disease stage. Id-1 and Id-3 should be considered new target candidates in the development of personalized therapy in lung ADC.
Emotional Consequences of Finasteride: Fool’s Gold
Authors: Ganzer Christine Anne , Jacobs Alan Roy
Published: February 2016

Androgenetic alopecia, the gradual, progressive loss of hair frequently results in psychological despair, in part related to changes in self-image. Current androgenetic alopecia treatments are limited to hair transplantation and medications that inhibit dihydrotestosterone, a potent androgen associated with follicular micronization. Users of finasteride, which prevents dihydrotestosterone production, report serious physical and emotional adverse effects, collectively known as post-finasteride syndrome. Psychiatric illnesses and personality traits, specifically neuroticism influence emotional well-being. Limited research exists exploring the psychological corollaries of post-finasteride syndrome and preexisting Axis I and Axis II mental health conditions. The aim of this study was to explore how having a preexisting personal and/or familial history of a psychiatric diagnosis and certain personality traits may influence anxiety and depression among finasteride users. Participants in this online survey completed the Beck Depression Inventory, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Ten-Item Personality Inventory. An important finding in this study was that almost 57% ( n = 97) of men reported a psychiatric diagnosis and 28% ( n = 27) had a first-degree relative with a mental health disorder, of this group 17 only had a family history. Nearly 50% of the men surveyed reported clinically significant depression as evidenced by Beck Depression Inventory score and 34% experienced anxiety on the Beck Anxiety Inventory. There were no statistically significant trends in personality traits reported. Results provide evidence on the need to screen for psychiatric history and counseling patients about the potential psychological consequences of finasteride. Prescribing clinicians should carefully weigh the risk/benefit ratio with these patients.
Geographic variations of multiple sclerosis prevalence in France: The latitude gradient is not uniform depending on the socioeconomic status of the studied population
Authors: Ha-Vinh Philippe , Nauleau Stève , Clementz Marine , Régnard Pierre , Sauze Laurent , Clavaud Henri
Published: February 2016

Background

In France, two studies analysed multiple sclerosis prevalence nationwide: one was carried out in farmers, and the other one in employees. A south-north gradient of prevalence was found solely in farmers.

Objective

In order to better describe the latitude gradient in France, which is not uniform depending on the studied population, we assessed whether a gradient exists in another population than farmers and employees: independent workers. The same methods of case ascertainment have been used.

Methods

Altogether 4,165,903 persons insured by the French health insurance scheme for independent workers were included. We searched the database for (a) long term disease status ‘multiple sclerosis’, (b) domicile, (c) gender and (d) age.

Results

A total of 4182 cases of multiple sclerosis were registered giving a prevalence of 100.39/100,000. Adjustment by age and sex and spatial smoothing with a Bayesian analysis showed a gradual increase of prevalence from the southwest to the northeast of France. Standardised morbidity ratio was correlated with latitude and longitude ( p<0.0001; p = 0.0031; adjusted R2 = 0.3038).

Conclusion

A discrepancy of geographic distribution between farmers and independent workers on the one hand and employees on the other cannot be attributable to environment. Assuming that socioeconomic status by itself is not associated with multiple sclerosis risk, employees’ geographic mobility at adulthood for professional reasons could have interfered with the gradient effect.
Seqinspector: position-based navigation through the ChIP-seq data landscape to identify gene expression regulators
Authors: Piechota Marcin , Korostynski Michal , Ficek Joanna , Tomski Andrzej , Przewlocki Ryszard
Published: February 2016

Background

The regulation of gene expression in eukaryotic cells is a complex process that involves epigenetic modifications and the interaction of DNA with multiple transcription factors. This process can be studied with unprecedented sensitivity using a combination of chromatin immunoprecipitation and next-generation DNA sequencing (ChIP-seq). Available ChIP-seq data can be further utilized to interpret new gene expression profiling experiments.

Results

Here, we describe seqinspector, a tool that accepts any set of genomic coordinates from ChIP-seq or RNA-seq studies to identify shared transcriptional regulators. The presented web resource includes a large collection of publicly available ChIP-seq and RNA-seq experiments (>1300 tracks) performed on transcription factors, histone modifications, RNA polymerases, enhancers and insulators in humans and mice. Over-representation is calculated based on the coverage computed directly from indexed files storing ChIP-seq data (bigwig). Therefore, seqinspector is not limited to pre-computed sets of gene promoters.

Conclusion

The tool can be used to identify common gene expression regulators for sets of co-expressed transcripts (including miRNAs, lncRNAs or any novel unannotated RNAs) or for sets of ChIP-seq peaks to identify putative protein-protein interactions or transcriptional co-factors. The tool is available at http://seqinspector.cremag.org.