bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of diabetes knowledge in a cohort of Nigerian diabetics
Authors: Jasper Unyime Sunday , Ogundunmade Babatunde Gbolahan , Opara Macmillian Chinonso , Akinrolie Olayinka , Pyiki Edna Bawa , Umar Aishatu
Published: March 2014

Background

One of the consequences of the generational paradigm shift of lifestyle from the traditional African model to a more "western" standard is a replacement of communicable diseases by non-communicable or life style related diseases like diabetes. To address this trend, diabetes education along with continuous assessment of diabetes related knowledge has been advocated. Since most of the Nigerian studies assessing knowledge of diabetes were hospital-based, we decided to evaluate the diabetes related knowledge and its sociodemographic determinants in a general population of diabetics.

Methods

Diabetics (n = 184) attending the 2012 world diabetes day celebration in a Nigerian community were surveyed using a two part questionnaire. Section A elicited information on their demographics characteristics and participation in update courses, and exercise, while section B assessed knowledge of diabetes using the 14 item Michigan Diabetes Research and Training Centre's Brief Diabetes Knowledge Test.

Results

We found that Nigerian diabetics had poor knowledge of diabetes, with pervasive fallacies. Majority did not have knowledge of "diabetes diet", "fatty food", "free food", effect of unsweetened fruit juice on blood glucose, treatment of hypoglycaemia, and the average duration glycosylated haemoglobin (haemoglobin A1) test measures blood glucose. Attaining tertiary education, falling under the 51–60 years age group, frequent attendance at seminars/updates and satisfaction with education received, being employed by or formerly working for the government, and claiming an intermediate, or wealthy income status was associated with better knowledge of diabetes.

Conclusion

Nigerian diabetics' knowledge of diabetes was poor and related to age, level of education, satisfaction with education received, employment status and household wealth.
Suboptimal glycaemic and blood pressure control and screening for diabetic complications in adult ambulatory diabetic patients in Uganda: a retrospective study from a developing country
Authors: Kibirige Davis , Atuhe David , Sebunya Robert , Mwebaze Raymond
Published: March 2014

Background

Currently, Sub Saharan Africa is faced with a substantial burden from diabetes mellitus. In most of the African countries, screening for diabetes related complications and control of blood pressure and glycaemic levels is often suboptimal.

The study aimed at assessing the extent of optimal glycaemic and blood pressure control and the frequency of screening for diabetic complications in adult ambulatory Ugandan diabetic patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 250 medical records of adult diabetic patients attending the outpatient diabetic clinic at St. Raphael of St. Francis hospital Nsambya in Kampala, Uganda.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 51.6 ± 9.2 years with the majority being females (155, 62%). Using fasting blood glucose levels assessed in all the patients, optimal glycemic control of <7.2 mmol/l was noted in 42.8% of the patients. Glycated haemoglobin was performed at least once in the last year in 24 (9.6%) patients , of which 5 (20.8%) of these attained optimal control of <7%. Optimal blood pressure (BP) control defined as BP ≤140/80 mmHg was noted in 56% of the patients. Hypertension and diabetic neuropathy were the most screened for diabetic complications in 100% and 47.2% of the patients respectively and were also the most prevalent diabetic complications (76.4% and 31.2% respectively).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that glycemic and blood pressure control and screening for diabetic complications among the adult ambulatory diabetic patients in this urban diabetic clinic is suboptimal. This substantiates development and implementation local guidelines to improve diabetes care.
Linking rock physics and basin history — Filling gaps between wells in frontier basins
Authors: Dræge Anders , Duffaut Kenneth , Wiik Torgeir , Hokstad Ketil
Published: March 2014

A method has been developed to link present-day well or seismic measurements through rock-physics temperature and net-erosion variations caused by past tectonic events within a sedimentary basin. An ambiguous and intricate link among physical rock properties, temperature history, and burial history is demonstrated by modeling examples. Net-erosion estimates presuppose an estimate about temperature history and vice versa. Net erosion and temperature history normally cannot be estimated independently when using elastic rock properties, although net erosion in principle can be estimated independently of temperature for shallow unconsolidated sediments. For rocks that have been subjected to thermal diagenesis, either net erosion or paleotemperature must be known by consensus while estimating the other, or both must be estimated simultaneously. Well data demonstrate how rock physics is used to predict the maximum historical temperature and net erosion based on well-log velocities. From these parameters, sediment cooling can be derived. These estimates can be performed away from well positions, based on seismic velocities in shale. Temperature and erosion estimates are given for a 2D line, and large lateral variations are estimated. Normally, if well data are sparse, there will be a high uncertainty in net-erosion estimates. The new method reduces uncertainty in net-erosion and temperature estimates in areas away from well control. The method is used in an area with good estimations of uplift and erosion from wells and gives results consistent with observations.
VS predictors revisited
Authors: Dvorkin Jack , Mavko Gary
Published: March 2014

Various shear-velocity (VS) predictors differ from one another, and this difference affects a synthetic AVO gather produced at a well or for a synthetic earth model. The difference between gathers produced by using different predictors might be well within the noise level of field data and will not necessarily affect site-specific seismic-based hydrocarbon indicators.
Neuroblastoma mRNAs Predict Outcome in Children With Stage 4 Neuroblastoma: A European HR-NBL1/SIOPEN Study
Authors: Viprey Virginie F. , Gregory Walter M. , Corrias Maria V. , Tchirkov Andrei , Swerts Katrien , Vicha Ales , Dallorso Sandro , Brock Penelope , Luksch Roberto , Valteau-Couanet Dominique , Papadakis Vassilios , Laureys Genevieve , Pearson Andrew D. , Ladenstein Ruth , Burchill Susan A.
Published: March 2014

Purpose

To evaluate the hypothesis that detection of neuroblastoma mRNAs by reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RTqPCR) in peripheral blood (PB) and bone marrow aspirates (BM) from children with stage 4 neuroblastoma are clinically useful biomarkers of risk.

Methods

RTqPCR for paired-like homeobox 2b (PHOX2B), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), and doublecortin (DCX) mRNA in PB and BM of children enrolled onto the High-Risk Neuroblastoma Trial-1 of the European Society of Pediatric Oncology Neuroblastoma Group (HR-NBL1/SIOPEN) was performed at diagnosis and after induction therapy.

Results

High levels of TH, PHOX2B, or DCX mRNA in PB or BM at diagnosis strongly predicted for worse event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) in a cohort of 290 children. After induction therapy, high levels of these mRNAs predicted worse EFS and OS in BM but not in PB. Combinations of mRNAs in BM did not add to the predictive power of any single mRNA. However, in the original (n = 182) and validation (n = 137) PB cohorts, high TH (log10TH > 0.8) or high PHOX2B (log10PHOX2B > 0.28) identify 19% of children as ultrahigh risk, with 5-year EFS and OS rates of 0%; OS rate was 25% (95% CI, 16% to 36%) and EFS rate was 38% (95% CI, 28% to 49%) in the remaining children. The magnitude of reduction in mRNA level between diagnosis and postinduction therapy in BM or PB was not of additional predictive value.

Conclusion

High levels of TH and PHOX2B mRNA in PB at diagnosis objectively identify children with ultrahigh-risk disease who may benefit from novel treatment approaches. The level of TH, PHOX2B, and DCX mRNA in BM and/or PB at diagnosis might contribute to an algorithm to improve stratification of children for treatment.
To Treat or Not to Treat, That Is the Question: The Role of Bone-Targeted Therapy in Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Authors: Higano Celestia S.
Published: March 2014

The Oncology Grand Rounds series is designed to place original reports published in the Journal into clinical context. A case presentation is followed by a description of diagnostic and management challenges, a review of the relevant literature, and a summary of the authors' suggested management approaches. The goal of this series is to help readers better understand how to apply the results of key studies, including those published in Journal of Clinical Oncology, to patients seen in their own clinical practice.

A 62-year-old construction site manager experienced 6 weeks of back pain that was not responsive to over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. He visited his wife's primary care physician for evaluation. He denied neurologic symptoms or worsening of pain while lying down. He smoked (30 pack-years, quit 4 years ago), and drinks 3 beers each evening and more on weekends (up to a six-pack). He has had two lower extremity fractures from falls at construction sites. At the time of the physical examination, he was 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighed 194 pounds. He was alert, oriented, and in mild distress. He had no percussion tenderness of his spine, and a neurologic examination was negative. A digital rectal examination revealed an enlarged prostate with an area of induration of the left, normal rectal tone, and guaiac-negative stool. Laboratory studies included normal blood counts, electrolytes, and renal and liver function tests (including lactic acid dehydrogenase and total protein). The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was 114 ng/mL; he had no prior PSA test. A bone scan showed diffuse bony involvement including the T7 vertebral body and left pedicle, ribs, pelvis, and calvarium. Magnetic resonance imaging of his spine confirmed bone metastases but showed no evidence of extension into the epidural space or spinal cord compromise. A prostate biopsy revealed Gleason 4+4 adenocarcinoma of the prostate. Androgen deprivation therapy with leuprolide acetate was initiated, and the addition of a bone-targeted agent was considered.
Wnt-regulated dynamics of positional information in zebrafish somitogenesis
Authors: Bajard Lola , Morelli Luis G. , Ares Saúl , Pécréaux Jacques , Jülicher Frank , Oates Andrew C.
Published: March 2014

How signaling gradients supply positional information in a field of moving cells is an unsolved question in patterning and morphogenesis. Here, we ask how a Wnt signaling gradient regulates the dynamics of a wavefront of cellular change in a flow of cells during somitogenesis. Using time-controlled perturbations of Wnt signaling in the zebrafish embryo, we changed segment length without altering the rate of somite formation or embryonic elongation. This result implies specific Wnt regulation of the wavefront velocity. The observed Wnt signaling gradient dynamics and timing of downstream events support a model for wavefront regulation in which cell flow plays a dominant role in transporting positional information.
Quantitative cell polarity imaging defines leader-to-follower transitions during collective migration and the key role of microtubule-dependent adherens junction formation
Authors: Revenu Céline , Streichan Sebastian , Donà Erika , Lecaudey Virginie , Hufnagel Lars , Gilmour Darren
Published: March 2014

The directed migration of cell collectives drives the formation of complex organ systems. A characteristic feature of many migrating collectives is a ‘tissue-scale’ polarity, whereby ‘leader’ cells at the edge of the tissue guide trailing ‘followers’ that become assembled into polarised epithelial tissues en route. Here, we combine quantitative imaging and perturbation approaches to investigate epithelial cell state transitions during collective migration and organogenesis, using the zebrafish lateral line primordium as an in vivo model. A readout of three-dimensional cell polarity, based on centrosomal-nucleus axes, allows the transition from migrating leaders to assembled followers to be quantitatively resolved for the first time in vivo. Using live reporters and a novel fluorescent protein timer approach, we investigate changes in cell-cell adhesion underlying this transition by monitoring cadherin receptor localisation and stability. This reveals that while cadherin 2 is expressed across the entire tissue, functional apical junctions are first assembled in the transition zone and become progressively more stable across the leader-follower axis of the tissue. Perturbation experiments demonstrate that the formation of these apical adherens junctions requires dynamic microtubules. However, once stabilised, adherens junction maintenance is microtubule independent. Combined, these data identify a mechanism for regulating leader-to-follower transitions within migrating collectives, based on the relocation and stabilisation of cadherins, and reveal a key role for dynamic microtubules in this process.
Fertilization-induced K63-linked ubiquitylation mediates clearance of maternal membrane proteins
Authors: Sato Miyuki , Konuma Ryosuke , Sato Katsuya , Tomura Kotone , Sato Ken
Published: March 2014

In Caenorhabditis elegans, fertilization triggers endocytosis and rapid turnover of maternal surface membrane proteins in lysosomes, although the precise mechanism of this inducible endocytosis is unknown. We found that high levels of K63-linked ubiquitin chains transiently accumulated on endosomes upon fertilization. Endocytosis and the endosomal accumulation of ubiquitin were both regulated downstream of the anaphase-promoting complex, which drives the oocyte’s meiotic cell cycle after fertilization. The clearance of maternal membrane proteins and the accumulation of K63-linked ubiquitin on endosomes depended on UBC-13 and UEV-1, which function as an E2 complex that specifically mediates chain elongation of K63-linked polyubiquitin. CAV-1-GFP, an endocytic cargo protein, was modified with K63-linked polyubiquitin in a UBC-13/UEV-1-dependent manner. In ubc-13 or uev-1 mutants, CAV-1-GFP and other membrane proteins were internalized from the plasma membrane normally after fertilization. However, they were not efficiently targeted to the multivesicular body (MVB) pathway but recycled to the cell surface. Our results suggest that UBC-13-dependent K63-linked ubiquitylation is required for proper MVB sorting rather than for internalization. These results also demonstrate a developmentally controlled function of K63-linked ubiquitylation.
Dendritic Tetrathiafulvalene Pentamers Linked by Methylenedithio Spacers
Authors: Kimura Haruka , Konishi Katsuya , Muraoka Shun-ya , Shirahata Takashi , Misaki Yohji
Published: March 2014

Dendritic tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) derivatives linked by methylenedithio groups 3 were synthesized. Cyclic voltammetry and spectroelectrochemistry analyses revealed the presence of considerable mutual interaction among multiple TTF units in the oxidation states.
Experience in Performing Analytical Calculations Using Algebraic Model of Constructive Logic in Medicine and Biology
Authors: Хромушин  , Khromushin Oleg , Хромушин  , Khromushin Viktor , Китанина  , Kitanina K. , Даильнев  , Dailnev V. , Ластовецкий  , Lastovetskiy A.
Published: March 2014

This paper describes the experience of analytical calculations in medicine and biology using the mathematical apparatus of algebraic model of constructive logic, created with Russia in 1983. Basically it is a model intuitionism calculus, displaying the inductive part of the thinking - formulation of a relatively small set of summary of the information arrays of large dimension. The initial data to build the model is a table. Each row in this table is treated as a case in which the values of the factors are listed in the form of any numeric value, and the result of their exposure. The resulting model is represented by a set of the resulting components as factors indicating the detection limits, combined mark conjunction (pointing to the joint effect). Each resulting component characterized by the capacity, which is the essence of the number of rows in the table that meet the specified limits of the determining factors in their joint action defined by algebraic model of constructive logic. Optimality is demonstrated by a comparison with a dead-end disjunctive form, as not allowing further simplification in the synthesis of combinational logical schema. The algorithm has the potential partial avoidance of the impact of hidden variables that are slowly evolve over time.

The stages of the analysis, including the building of the expert system, are demonstrated and also the ways of further improvement of the algorithm are specified. An algebraic model of constructive logic of their capabilities is not inferior to neural network algorithms for analytical capabilities, convenient in use and doesn´t require the training phase. An algebraic model of constructive logic is fundamentally different from many well-known algorithms including neural network algorithms. Its use along with other allows to reach greater confidence in the assessment of the results.
Ophthalmological Diagnostic Complex Based on a Slit Lamp and Multi-Waves Laser
Authors: Соболев  , Sobolev Yu. , Иванов  , Ivanov A. , Астахов  , Astakhov Yu. , Пантелеев  , Panteleev L. , Акопов  , Akopov E.
Published: March 2014

The paper presents the ophthalmological diagnostic complex based on slit lamp, equipped with equipment for laser pa-nretinal photocoagulation. Pre-existing principle of construction of the ophthalmologic lasers involves a cascade of work of waves of different length, while in the new version of the device the ability to use two waves simultaneously and implementation of adjustment of the intensity of each wavelength. Pattern-scanning laser ophthalmo-coagulator works at two wavelengths 532 nm and 810 nm. Use of multi-waves laser source expands the range of possible applications in the treatment of retinal diseases. Medical-diagnostic complex is intended for stereoscopic observation, investigation of the anterior segment of the eyeball, lens, retina in medical, medical-preventive and research medical institutions and private clinics. This device allows to effectively conduct operations as pattern retinal laser photo-coagulation and laser trabeculoplasty green laser, and transpupilar thermotherapy of choroidal neovascularization, transcleral retinal photocoagulation and ciliary body by means of infrared (IR) laser. In the multi-colored photocoagulator, the technologies of "automatic positioning of the field of coagulation"(PASCAL) are used. The paper discusses the technical features of the instrument and its development prospects.
Material Factor in the Formation of Motivation for the Useful Work of Health Workers
Authors: Донцов  , Dontsov V.
Published: March 2014

In this article the technique of creation of the mechanism of the differentiated compensation as effective factor is given in formation of positive motivation for the useful work of employees of health institutions, as the factor promoting mutual interest of various categories of employees in each other and in receiving a medical product of joint work. Approaches to expression are found in uniform numerical system of essentially various indicators of the final result of medical production: volume, qualities, timeliness, outcome. This allowed to reduce all of the four main characteristics of one polymer indicator of the final result of the activity of a doctor. As a result it became possible to establish a differentiated salary strictly adequate to the final result of work of a doctor, including scope of work, quality and timeliness of medical care, the outcome of the disease. Interrelations of various categories of medical workers and a share of their participation in uniform production are established. This allowed to determine in exact proportions the salary sizes in relation to the size of a salary of a doctor. The share importance of various factors on indicators of the final result of medical production is shown. The created mechanism of the differentiated compensation in modern social and economic conditions stirs up activity of each employee possessing different functions.
Shock-Wave Therapy in the Treatment of the Patients with Chronic Prostatitis and Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: Неделько  , Nedelko D. , Лазарев  , Lazarev I.
Published: March 2014

Despite numerous methods of treatment, the therapeutic efficiency of erectile dysfunction in the patients with chronic prostatitis is 45-56%, due to the fact that pharmacological preparations in a greater percentage of cases don´t penetrate into the prostate gland and cause side effects. Therefore, some researchers suggest the use of physiotherapy. Currently, highly effective method of treatment of erectile dysfunction in the patients with chronic prostatitis is a shock-wave therapy, the main clinical effects which are analgesic effect, activating microcirculation and neo-angiogenesis, stimulation of metabolic processes, reducing the severity of fibro-sclerotic changes, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. The authors aim of the study is pathogenetically justify the use of the shock-wave therapy of erectile dysfunction in patients with chronic prostatitis with the positions of system-structural analysis. The study involved 40 patients with chronic prostatitis with erectile dysfunction. On the basis of these studies the authors have shown that the shock- wave therapy is the pathogenetic therapy of chronic prostatitis, as has a direct effect on the prostate gland and vasodilator effect, reduces edema, leukocyte infiltration.
Crystal structure of oxonium o-toluidinium sulfate at 100K, (C7H10N)(H3O)SO4
Authors: Hassen Chaouki Ben , Boujelbene Mohamed , Khitouni Mohamed , SuÃ±ol Joan Josep , Mhiri Tahar
Published: March 2014

A simple oxonium o-toluidinium sulfate, (C7H10N)(H3O)SO4 , crystallized from water at ambient temperature was found to be monoclinic (space group P21/c) at 100K. In the crystal, the H3O+ ions and the SO42- anions are linked by O-Hâ€¦O hydrogen bonds, generating infinite layers lying parallel to the bc plane at x = 1/2. These layers are interconnected by the organic cations, which establish N-Hâ€¦O hydrogen bonds with the SO42- anions. Weak Ï€-Ï€ stacking interactions between the benzene rings of neighboring molecules further to stabilize the structure [centroid- centroid distance = 3.648 Ã…].
Identification of Chromosomally Integrated Human Herpesvirus 6 by Droplet Digital PCR
Authors: Sedlak Ruth Hall , Cook Linda , Huang Meei-Li , Magaret Amalia , Zerr Danielle M , Boeckh Michael , Jerome Keith R
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) latently infects a majority of adults. In about 1% of the population HHV-6 exists in a chromosomally integrated form (ciHHV-6) that resides in every somatic and germ cell and can be transmitted through the germ line. Patients with ciHHV-6 have been misdiagnosed and unnecessarily treated for active HHV-6 infection, sometimes with important side effects, based on results from quantitative molecular HHV-6 tests.

METHODS

A droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) assay was developed to identify ciHHV-6 in cellular patient samples by precisely determining the ratio of HHV-6 to cellular DNA. We validated the assay on confirmed ciHHV-6 patient samples and a cell line derived from a ciHHV-6 patient, and we analyzed hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients suspected of having ciHHV-6. We additionally evaluated whether the assay could be applied to stored plasma samples from a study of clinical correlates of HHV-6.

RESULTS

The ddPCR assay accurately identified ciHHV-6 in cellular samples (buffy coat, peripheral blood mononuclear cells), giving a ratio very close to 1 HHV-6/cell [mean (SD), 1.02 (0.03)] in fluorescence in situ hybridization–confirmed sample). In stored plasma samples, the assay performance was set by design to have 100% sensitivity, which resulted in 82% specificity for ciHHV-6.

CONCLUSIONS

The possibility of ciHHV-6 is often overlooked in patients with detectable HHV-6 viral loads by quantitative PCR. Our ddPCR test provides rapid and accurate laboratory identification of ciHHV-6 from easily obtained cellular samples. In addition, the assay provides excellent sensitivity and specificity using stored plasma samples, facilitating retrospective analysis of the clinical significance of ciHHV-6.
Use of Observed Within-Person Variation of Cardiac Troponin in Emergency Department Patients for Determination of Biological Variation and Percentage and Absolute Reference Change Values
Authors: Simpson Aaron J , Potter Julia M , Koerbin Gus , Oakman Carmen , Cullen Louise , Wilkes Garry J , Scanlan Samuel L , Parsonage William , Hickman Peter E
Published: March 2014

BACKGROUND

Many patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) for assessment of possible acute coronary syndrome (ACS) have low cardiac troponin concentrations that change very little on repeat blood draw. It is unclear if a lack of change in cardiac troponin concentration can be used to identify acutely presenting patients at low risk of ACS.

METHODS

We used the hs-cTnI assay from Abbott Diagnostics, which can detect cTnI in the blood of nearly all people. We identified a population of ED patients being assessed for ACS with repeat cTnI measurement who ultimately were proven to have no acute cardiac disease at the time of presentation. We used data from the repeat sampling to calculate total within-person CV (CVT) and, knowing the assay analytical CV (CVA), we could calculate within-person biological variation (CVi), reference change values (RCVs), and absolute RCV delta cTnI concentrations.

RESULTS

We had data sets on 283 patients. Men and women had similar CVi values of approximately 14%, which was similar at all concentrations <40 ng/L. The biological variation was not dependent on the time interval between sample collections (t = 1.5–17 h). The absolute delta critical reference change value was similar no matter what the initial cTnI concentration was. More than 90% of subjects had a critical reference change value <5 ng/L, and 97% had values of <10 ng/L.

CONCLUSIONS

With this hs-cTnI assay, delta cTnI seems to be a useful tool for rapidly identifying ED patients at low risk for possible ACS.
Analysis of the gene coding for steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1, NR5A1) in a cohort of 50 Egyptian patients with 46,XY disorders of sex development
Authors: Tantawy Sally , Mazen Inas , Soliman Hala , Anwar Ghada , Atef Abeer , El-Gammal Mona , El-Kotoury Ahmed , Mekkawy Mona , Torky Ahmad , Rudolf Agnes , Schrumpf Pamela , Grüters Annette , Krude Heiko , Dumargne Marie-Charlotte , Astudillo Rebekka , Bashamboo Anu , Biebermann Heike , Köhler Birgit
Published: March 2014

Objective

Steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1, NR5A1) is a key transcriptional regulator of genes involved in the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. Recently, SF1 mutations were found to be a frequent cause of 46,XY disorders of sex development (DSD) in humans. We investigate the frequency of NR5A1 mutations in an Egyptian cohort of XY DSD.

Design

Clinical assessment, endocrine evaluation and genetic analysis of 50 Egyptian XY DSD patients (without adrenal insufficiency) with a wide phenotypic spectrum.

Methods

Molecular analysis of NR5A1 gene by direct sequencing followed by in vitro functional analysis of the two novel missense mutations detected.

Results

Three novel heterozygous mutations of the coding region in patients with hypospadias were detected. p.Glu121AlafsX25 results in severely truncated protein, p.Arg62Cys lies in DNA-binding zinc finger, whereas p.Ala154Thr lies in the hinge region of SF1 protein. Transactivation assays using reporter constructs carrying promoters of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), CYP11A1 and TESCO core enhancer of Sox9 showed that p.Ala154Thr and p.Arg62Cys mutations result in aberrant biological activity of NR5A1. A total of 17 patients (34%) harboured the p.Gly146Ala polymorphism.

Conclusion

We identified two novel NR5A1 mutations showing impaired function in 23 Egyptian XY DSD patients with hypospadias (8.5%). This is the first study searching for NR5A1 mutations in oriental patients from the Middle East and Arab region with XY DSD and no adrenal insufficiency, revealing a frequency similar to that in European patients (6.5–15%). We recommend screening of NR5A1 in patients with hypospadias and gonadal dysgenesis. Yearly follow-ups of gonadal function and early cryoconservation of sperms should be performed in XY DSD patients with NR5A1 mutations given the risk of future fertility problems due to early gonadal failure.
Genome Sequence of Saccharomyces carlsbergensis, the World’s First Pure Culture Lager Yeast
Authors: Walther Andrea , Hesselbart Ana , Wendland Jürgen
Published: March 2014

Lager yeast beer production was revolutionized by the introduction of pure culture strains. The first established lager yeast strain is known as the bottom fermenting Saccharomyces carlsbergensis, which was originally termed Unterhefe No. 1 by Emil Chr. Hansen and has been used in production in since 1883. S. carlsbergensis belongs to group I/Saaz-type lager yeast strains and is better adapted to cold growth conditions than group II/Frohberg-type lager yeasts, e.g., the Weihenstephan strain WS34/70. Here, we sequenced S. carlsbergensis using next generation sequencing technologies. Lager yeasts are descendants from hybrids formed between a S. cerevisiae parent and a parent similar to S. eubayanus. Accordingly, the S. carlsbergensis 19.5-Mb genome is substantially larger than the 12-Mb S. cerevisiae genome. Based on the sequence scaffolds, synteny to the S. cerevisae genome, and by using directed polymerase chain reaction for gap closure, we generated a chromosomal map of S. carlsbergensis consisting of 29 unique chromosomes. We present evidence for genome and chromosome evolution within S. carlsbergensis via chromosome loss and loss of heterozygosity specifically of parts derived from the S. cerevisiae parent. Based on our sequence data and via fluorescence-activated cell-sorting analysis, we determined the ploidy of S. carlsbergensis. This inferred that this strain is basically triploid with a diploid S. eubayanus and haploid S. cerevisiae genome content. In contrast the Weihenstephan strain, which we resequenced, is essentially tetraploid composed of two diploid S. cerevisiae and S. eubayanus genomes. Based on conserved translocations between the parental genomes in S. carlsbergensis and the Weihenstephan strain we propose a joint evolutionary ancestry for lager yeast strains.
Health Assessment of Self‐employed Hairdressers in France
Authors: Deschamps Frederic , Langrand Jerome , Lesage Francois‐Xavier
Published: March 2014

Health Assessment of Self‐employed Hairdressers in France: Frederic DESCHAMPS, et al. Occupational Disease Department University Hospital of Reims, France—

Objective

Hairdressers have a high incidence of occupational diseases, owing to excessive wet work and exposure to chemical substances. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of occupational diseases in a population of self‐employed hairdressers, matched for age and sex with a control group of wage‐earning hairdressers.

Method

A health questionnaire was administered to both groups by an occupational health practitioner.

Results

Irritative skin diseases were reported by 1.5% of the self‐employed hairdressers versus 9.1% of the wage earners. Conversely, the rates of respiratory diseases and cumulative musculoskeletal injuries were much higher among self‐employed hairdressers.

Conclusions

This study shows that the overall health of self‐employed hairdressers is lower than that of their wage‐earning counterparts. This can be attributed to several aspects of work exposure, organization, including longer working hours, fewer protective measures and the absence of preventive medicine in the workplace.
Formation of the Nitrative DNA Lesion 8‐Nitroguanine is Associated with Asbestos Contents in Human Lung Tissues: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hiraku Yusuke , Sakai Kiyoshi , Shibata Eiji , Kamijima Michihiro , Hisanaga Naomi , Ma Ning , Kawanishi Shosuke , Murata Mariko
Published: March 2014

Formation of the Nitrative DNA Lesion 8‐Nitroguanine is Associated with Asbestos Contents in Human Lung Tissues: A Pilot Study: Yusuke HIRAKU, et al. Department of Environmental and Molecular Medicine, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine—

Objectives

Asbestos causes lung cancer and malignant mesothelioma, and chronic inflammation is considered to participate in carcinogenesis. However, biomarkers to evaluate its carcinogenic risk have not been established. Reactive oxygen/nitrogen species are generated in biological systems under inflammatory conditions and may contribute to carcinogenesis by causing DNA damage. In this study, we examined the relationship between the formation of 8nitroguanine (8‐nitroG), a mutagenic DNA lesion formed during inflammation, and asbestos contents in human lung tissues.

Methods

We obtained non‐tumor lung tissues from patients with (n=15) and without mesothelioma (n=21). The expression of 8‐nitroG and related molecules was examined by immunohistochemistry, and their staining intensities were semiquantitatively evaluated. Asbestos contents in lung tissues were analyzed by analytical transmission electron microscopy.

Results

In subjects without mesothelioma, staining intensities of 8‐nitroG and apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APE1) were significantly correlated with total asbestos and amphibole contents (p<0.05), but not with chrysotile content. In mesothelioma patients, their staining intensities were not correlated with asbestos contents. The double immunofluorescence technique revealed that APE1 was expressed in 8‐nitroGpositive cells, suggesting that abasic sites were formed possibly due to the removal of 8‐nitroG. The staining intensities of 8‐oxo‐7,8‐dihydro‐2’‐deoxyguanosine, an oxidative DNA lesion, and its repair enzyme 8‐oxoguanine DNA‐glycosylase were correlated with age (p<0.05), but not with asbestos contents in subjects without mesothelioma.

Conclusions

This is the first study to demonstrate that 8‐nitroG formation is associated with asbestos contents in human lung tissues. This finding raises a possibility that 8‐nitroG serves as a biomarker that can be used to evaluate asbestos exposure and carcinogenic risk.
Economic Evaluation of the Routine Childhood Immunization Program in the United States, 2009
Authors: Zhou Fangjun , Shefer Abigail , Wenger Jay , Messonnier Mark , Wang Li Yan , Lopez Adriana , Moore Matthew , Murphy Trudy V. , Cortese Margaret , Rodewald Lance
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVES:

To evaluate the economic impact of the 2009 routine US childhood immunization schedule, including diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and acellular pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate, inactivated poliovirus, measles/mumps/rubella, hepatitis B, varicella, 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate, hepatitis A, and rotavirus vaccines; influenza vaccine was not included.

METHODS:

Decision analysis was conducted using population-based vaccination coverage, published vaccine efficacies, historical data on disease incidence before vaccination, and disease incidence reported during 2005 to 2009. Costs were estimated using the direct cost and societal (direct and indirect costs) perspectives. Program costs included vaccine, administration, vaccine-associated adverse events, and parent travel and work time lost. All costs were inflated to 2009 dollars, and all costs and benefits in the future were discounted at a 3% annual rate. A hypothetical 2009 US birth cohort of 4 261 494 infants over their lifetime was followed up from birth through death. Net present value (net savings) and benefit-cost ratios of routine childhood immunization were calculated.

RESULTS:

Analyses showed that routine childhood immunization among members of the 2009 US birth cohort will prevent ∼42 000 early deaths and 20 million cases of disease, with net savings of $13.5 billion in direct costs and $68.8 billion in total societal costs, respectively. The direct and societal benefit-cost ratios for routine childhood vaccination with these 9 vaccines were 3.0 and 10.1.

CONCLUSIONS:

From both direct cost and societal perspectives, vaccinating children as recommended with these vaccines results in substantial cost savings.
Australian Bat Lyssavirus in a Child: The First Reported Case
Authors: Francis Joshua R. , Nourse Clare , Vaska Vikram L. , Calvert Sophie , Northill Judith A. , McCall Brad , Mattke Adrian C.
Published: March 2014

Human infection with Australian Bat Lyssavirus is extremely rare and has not previously been reported in a child. We describe a fatal case of Australian Bat Lyssavirus in an 8-year-old child, and review the literature pertaining to the diagnosis and management of lyssavirus infection with consideration of its applicability to this emerging strain.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Participation and Child Food Security
Authors: Mabli James , Worthington Julie
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE:

This article investigates the association between Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation and child food security by using data from the largest national survey of the food security of SNAP participants to date.

METHODS:

The analysis used a survey of nearly 3000 households with children and a quasi-experimental research design that consisted of 2 sets of comparisons. Using a cross-sectional sample, we compared information collected from SNAP households within days of program entry with information collected from a contemporaneous sample of SNAP households that had participated for ∼6 months. Next, by using a longitudinal sample, we compared baseline information collected from new-entrant SNAP households with information from those same households 6 months later. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to estimate associations between SNAP and child food security.

RESULTS:

SNAP participation was associated with an approximately one-third decrease in the odds of children being food insecure in both samples. In the cross-sectional analysis only, SNAP was also associated with a decrease in the odds of children experiencing severe food insecurity (designated very low food security). Findings were qualitatively robust to different empirical specifications.

CONCLUSIONS:

After controlling for other possible confounders, we found children in households that had participated in SNAP for 6 months experienced improvements in food security. On the basis of these findings, we conclude SNAP serves a vital role in improving the health and well-being of low-income children by increasing food security. Future research is needed to determine whether specific groups of children experience differential improvements in food security.
The Evaluation of the Reliability of Periotest for Implant Stability Measurements: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Bilhan Hakan , Cilingir Altug , Bural Canan , Bilmenoglu Caglar , Sakar Olcay , Geckili Onur
Published: March 2014

Periotest (Medizintechnik Gulden, Modautal, Germany) is a widely accepted implant stability measurement method, although the reliability is not well known. The aim of this in vitro study was to investigate the reliability of the Periotest in implant stability measurements. Thirty implants were placed in 3 cow ribs. The stability of each implant was measured by insertion torque, resonance frequency analyses, and Periotest and then compared. The Periotest values (PTVs) were measured by 4 different examiners. The measurements were repeated twice in both the buccal and mesial directions, for each implant at 2-hour intervals and the intra- and interobserver reliability of Periotest was measured. Results showed that the intraobserver reliability of the Periotest was excellent for the buccal PTVs but fair to poor for the mesial PTVs. The interobserver reliability of the Periotest was excellent for the buccal PTVs but poor for the mesial PTVs. No significance was found between the PTVs and IT values (P = .803) and PTVs and ISQ values, whereas a 47.1% significant correlation was detected between the IT values and ISQ values (P = .009). The present study indicates that only Periotest measurements from buccal result in excellent intra- and interobserver reliability for the quantification of the implant stability.
Broad‐scale geographic variation in the organization of rocky intertidal communities in the Gulf of Maine
Authors: Bryson Elizabeth S. , Trussell Geoffrey C. , Ewanchuk Patrick J.
Published: March 2014

A major challenge facing ecology is to better understand how large‐scale processes modify local‐scale processes to shape the organization of ecological communities. Although the results of ecological experiments are repeatable on local scales, different results often emerge across broad scales, which can hinder the development of general predictions that apply across the geographical range of a community. Numerous studies in the southern Gulf of Maine have shaped our understanding of community organization and dynamics on New England rocky intertidal shores, where consumers strongly control recovery from disturbance on sheltered shores, and high invertebrate recruitment and competition for space dictate recovery on wave‐exposed shores. It is unclear, however, whether the effects of consumers and recruitment variation on resulting community organization in this region apply more broadly to rocky intertidal habitats throughout the Gulf.

We characterized variation in rocky intertidal community structure at 34 sites throughout the Gulf of Maine and experimentally examined the influence of consumers (present, absent) and wave energy (wave‐exposed, sheltered) on community recovery from disturbance in the northern and southern Gulf. Our results reinforced previous work in the southern Gulf, because consumers dictated the recovery of fucoid algae and mussels on sheltered shores, whereas high barnacle and mussel recruitment and competition for space shaped recovery on wave‐exposed shores. However, on sheltered shores in the northern Gulf, neither consumers nor barnacle and mussel recruitment impacted recovery, which was dominated by fucoid algae. Moreover, recovery on wave‐exposed shores in the northern Gulf was quite distinct from that observed in the southern Gulf; barnacle and mussel recruitment was negligible and fucoid algae dominated recovery, including the long‐term establishment of Ascophyllum nodosum, which is largely absent from wave‐exposed shores in the southern Gulf. Thus, distinct community types emerged in the northern and southern Gulf despite their sharing of many of the same species. These patterns likely emerged because of regional differences in coastal oceanography that modulate the recruitment of barnacles and mussels. Hence, increased attention to regional factors should provide key insight into how rocky‐shore communities are organized in the Gulf of Maine and elsewhere.
Agricultural practices indirectly influence plant productivity and ecosystem services through effects on soil biota
Authors: Köhl Luise , Oehl Fritz , van der Heijden Marcel G. A.
Published: March 2014

It is well established that agricultural practices alter the composition and diversity of soil microbial communities. However, the impact of changing soil microbial communities on the functioning of the agroecosystems is still poorly understood. Earlier work showed that soil tillage drastically altered microbial community composition. Here we tested, using an experimental grassland (Lolium, Trifolium, Plantago) as a model system, whether soil microbial communities from conventionally tilled (CT) and non‐tilled (NT) soils have different influences on plant productivity and nutrient acquisition. We specifically focus on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), as they are a group of beneficial soil fungi that can promote plant productivity and ecosystem functioning and are also strongly affected by tillage management.

Soil microbial communities from CT and NT soils varied greatly in their effects on the grassland communities. Communities from CT soil increased overall biomass production more than soil communities from NT soil. This effect was mainly due to a significant growth promotion of Trifolium by CT microorganisms. In contrast to CT soil inoculum, NT soil inoculum increased plant phosphorus concentration and total plant P content, demonstrating that the soil microbial communities from NT fields enhance P uptake. Differences in AM fungal community composition resulting, for instance, in twofold greater hyphal length in NT soil communities when compared to CT, are the most likely explanation for the different plant responses to CT and NT soil inocula.

A range of field studies have shown that plant P uptake increases when farmers change to conservation tillage or direct seeding. Our results indicate that this enhanced P uptake results from enhanced hyphal length and an altered AM fungal community. Our results further demonstrate that agricultural management practices indirectly influence ecosystem services and plant community structure through effects on soil biota.
What Happens When the Board of Nursing Comes Calling: Investigation and Disciplinary Actions
Authors: Smalls Harriett Twiggs
Published: March 2014

Each state has a Board of Nursing that governs the nurses that practice in that state. Each Board of Nursing has a process by which it investigates and hears cases against nurses accused of wrongdoing. This article gives a general overview of what steps are usually taken when the Board of Nursing suspects that a nurse’s actions may be in violation of the laws that govern nursing practice.
NICU Parent-to-Parent Partnerships: A Comprehensive Approach
Authors: Levick Judy , Quinn Marie , Vennema Carole
Published: March 2014

Parents of newborns in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) find themselves in a world of unknown medical terminology, advanced technology, and the realization that their dream of a healthy baby has been shattered. The unique partnership with trained parent-to-parent volunteers, who have had previous NICU experiences, enhances professional support and helps new NICU parents adjust to these unexpected challenges. This practice-based article describes the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital NICU Parent-to-Parent Partnership’s (PPP) 40-year commitment to the parent-to-parent philosophy and its comprehensive approach to delivering trained volunteer PPP services to NICU families. A historical review of the literature, including this hospital’s original research, current programming, recruiting, training, supervision, and survey feedback, is outlined.
Parental Quality of Life: Caring for an Infant or Toddler with a Tracheostomy at Home
Authors: Joseph Rachel A. , Goodfellow Linda M. , Simko Lynn M.
Published: March 2014

Purpose:To explore the relationships between stress, coping, duration of tracheostomy, and quality of life (QOL) of parental caregivers who care for a child with a tracheostomy at home.

Design:A cross-sectional correlational design was used to study parents who care for a child with a tracheostomy at home. Family Inventory of Life Events, Family Crisis Oriented Personal Evaluation Scale, and Psychological General Well-Being Index were used to measure stress, coping, and QOL, respectively. Data were collected using both online and paper-pencil format.

Main Outcome Variable:quality of life.

Results:Parents who care for their infants/toddlers with a tracheostomy at home were found to be in moderate distress. Mean age of the participants was 33 years (N = 71), and the average duration of the child’s tracheotomy was 18.22 (SD= 9.59) months. Multivariate analysis showed a significant inverse relationship between QOL and stress. QOL was significantly associated with coping,B= 19.91, β = .43,p<.001.