bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of child self-reports and parent proxy-reports on quality of life of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Marques Juliana CB , Oliveira Jorge A , Goulardins Juliana B , Nascimento Roseane O , Lima Allana MV , Casella Erasmo B 
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Background
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiological condition that affects 3%–7% of the pediatric population and significantly compromises the quality of life (QoL) of these individuals. The aim of the current study was to compare child self-reports and parent proxy reports on the QoL of children with ADHD.

Methods
Forty-five children with ADHD, combined type, aged 8–12 years without comorbidities, were compared with 43 typically developing children. PedsQL™ 4.0 (Pediatric QoL Inventory™) Generic Core Scales (physical, emotional, social, and school functioning) were completed by families and children self-reporting their health-related QoL.

Results
Children with ADHD reported themselves significantly lowered their PedsQL™ scores on all dimensions in comparison to typically developing children. Statistically significant differences were observed in social functioning (p = 0.010), school functioning (p <0.001), psychosocial health (p <0.001), and total score (p = 0.002). The physical functioning and emotional functioning dimensions did not differ significantly between groups, with p = 0.841 and p = 0.070, respectively. Parents of children with ADHD also reported lower PedsQL™ scores, with statistically significant differences in all dimensions. The relationship between child self-reports and parent proxy reports indicated that there is greater agreement among children with ADHD, except for the school functioning.

Conclusions
This suggests that children with the disorder and their parents have a perception of the functional limitations the disorder brings. It is therefore important to undertake studies to verify the QoL in children with ADHD that aim to provide and measure the scope of the well-being of these children.
Surgical approach for the treatment of aortoesophageal fistula combined with dual aortic aneurysms: a case report
Authors: Xu Rihao , Wang Tiance , Li Dan , Zhu Zhicheng , Zhang Shudong , Xuan Chengluan , Yan Wen , Liu Kexiang 
Published: November 2013

Abstract
Aortoesophageal fistula is a rare disease with a high mortality rate. The disease is with high mortality due to aneurysm rupture, and thus successfully managed cases are rarely reported. Here, we report a case of aortoesophageal fistula caused by a huge descending aneurysm and another smaller aneurysm found in the aortic arch. Such case was relatively rare in the cardiovascular field. Due to the limited experience, it was difficult to determine the proper therapeutic strategy. For this case, for the dual aneurysm, we surgically inserted an aortic endovascular stent-graft to exclusive the aneurysm and simultaneously repair the other aortic arch aneurysm. The patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged after 1 month antibiotics therapy for the palliative treatment of the esophageal fistula. She survived for 8 months at home before dying of massive hematemesis. Here, we present the operative method and our therapeutic experience for this extremely rare case.
Potential role of gastrointestinal microbiota composition in prostate cancer risk
Authors: Amirian E Susan , Petrosino Joseph F , Ajami Nadim J , Liu Yanhong , Mims Martha P , Scheurer Michael E 
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Background
Among men in the U.S., prostate cancer is the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death. Despite its prevalence, there are few established risk factors for prostate cancer. Some studies have found that intake of certain foods/nutrients may be associated with prostate cancer risk, but few have accounted for how intake and metabolic factors may interact to influence bioavailable nutrient levels and subsequent disease risk.

Presentation of the hypothesis
The composition of the gastrointestinal (GI) microbiome may influence metabolism of dietary compounds and nutrients (e.g., plant phenols, calcium, choline) that may be relevant to prostate cancer risk. We, therefore, propose the hypothesis that GI microbiota may have a markedly different composition among individuals with higher prostate cancer risk. These individuals could have microbial profiles that are conducive to intestinal inflammation and/or are less favorable for the metabolism and uptake of chemopreventive agents.

Testing the hypothesis
Because very little preliminary data exist on this potential association, a case–control study may provide valuable information on this topic. Such a study could evaluate whether the GI microbial profile is markedly different between three groups of individuals: healthy men, those with latent prostate cancer, and those with invasive prostate cancer. Any findings could then be validated in a larger study, designed to collect a series of specimens over time.

Implications of the hypothesis
Given the plethora of information emerging from the Human Microbiome Project, this is an opportune time to explore associations between the microbiome and complex human diseases. Identification of profiles that alter the host’s risk for disease may clarify inconsistencies in the literature on dietary factors and cancer risk, and could provide valuable targets for novel cancer prevention strategies.
Encephalitozoon intestinalis infection increases host cell mutation frequency
Authors: Leonard Cory Ann , Schell Maria , Schoborg Robert Vincent , Hayman James Russell 
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Background
Microsporidia are obligate intracellular opportunistic fungi that cause significant pathology in immunocompromised hosts. However, 11 percent of immunocompetent individuals in the general population are microsporidia-seropositive, indicating that severe immune suppression may not be a prerequisite for infection. Encephalitozoon intestinalis is transmitted in contaminated water and initially infects gastro-intestinal enterocytes, leading to diarrheal disease. This organism can also disseminate to many other organs. A recent report suggests that microsporidia can establish persistent infections, which anti-fungal treatment does not eradicate. Like other intracellular pathogens, microsporidia infection stresses the host cell and infected individuals have elevated hydrogen peroxide and free radical levels.

Findings
As oxidative stress can lead to DNA damage, we hypothesized that E. intestinalis- infection would increase host cell nuclear mutation rate. Embryo fibroblasts from Big BlueTM transgenic mice were E. intestinalis-infected and host nuclear mutation frequency was determined by selection of temperature-sensitive c-II gene mutant λ phage. The host mutation frequency in E. intestinalis-infected cultures was 2.5-fold higher than that observed in either mock-infected cells or cells infected with UV-inactivated E. intestinalis spores.

Conclusions
These data provide the first evidence that microsporidia infection can directly increase host cellular mutation frequency. Additionally, some event in the microsporidia developmental cycle between host cell attachment and parasitophorous vacuole formation is required for the observed effect. As there is considerable evidence linking infection with other intracellular pathogens and cancer, future studies to dissect the mechanism by which E. intestinalis infection increases host mutation frequency are warranted.
Increased abundance of Sutterella spp. and Ruminococcus torques in feces of children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Wang Lv , Christophersen Claus T , Sorich Michael J , Gerber Jacobus P , Angley Manya T , Conlon Michael A 
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Background
A recent report indicated that numbers of Sutterella spp. are elevated in gastrointestinal biopsies taken from children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We have recently reported changes in the numbers of some bacteria within the stool of ASD children, and now examine whether numbers of Sutterella spp. and some other mucosa-associated bacteria linked with gastrointestinal disease (Ruminococcus gnavus and Ruminococcus torques) are also altered in the stool of these children.

Findings
We show that numbers of Sutterella spp. are elevated in feces of ASD children relative to controls, and that numbers of R. torques are higher in the children with ASD with a reported functional gastrointestinal disorder than those without such a disorder.

Conclusions
We show further evidence of changes in the gut microbiota of children with ASD and confirm that the abundance of Sutterella spp. is altered in stool.
Platelets of mice heterozygous for neurobeachin, a candidate gene for autism spectrum disorder, display protein changes related to aberrant protein kinase A activity
Authors: Nuytens Kim , Tuand Krizia , Di Michele Michela , Boonen Kurt , Waelkens Etienne , Freson Kathleen , Creemers John WM 
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Background

Neurobeachin (NBEA) has been identified as a candidate gene for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in several unrelated patients with alterations in the NBEA gene. The exact function of NBEA, a multidomain scaffolding protein, is currently unknown. It contains an A-kinase anchoring protein (AKAP) domain which binds the regulatory subunit of protein kinase A (PKA) thereby confining its activity to specific subcellular regions. NBEA has been implicated in post-Golgi membrane trafficking and in regulated secretion. The mechanism of regulated secretion is largely conserved between neurons and platelets, and the morphology of platelet dense granules was found to be abnormal in several ASD patients, including one with NBEA haploinsufficiency. Platelet dense granules are secreted upon vascular injury when platelets are exposed to for instance collagen. Dense granules contain serotonin, ATP and ADP, which are necessary for platelet plug formation and vascular contraction.

Methods
To further investigate possible roles for NBEA in secretion or dense granule morphology, platelets from Nbea+/- mice were analyzed morphometrically, functionally and biochemically. A differential proteomics and peptidomics screen was performed between Nbea+/- and Nbea+/+ mice, in which altered Talin-1 cleavage was further investigated and validated in brain samples. Finally, the phosphorylation pattern of PKA substrates was analyzed.

Results
Platelet dense granules of Nbea+/- mice had a reduced surface area and abnormal dense-core halo, but normal serotonin-content. Nbea haploinsufficiency did not affect platelet aggregation and ATP secretion after collagen stimulation, although the platelet shape change was more pronounced. Furthermore, peptidomics revealed that Nbea+/- platelets contain significantly reduced levels of several actin-interacting peptides. Decreased levels were detected of the actin-binding head and rod domain of Talin-1, which are cleavage products of Calpain-2. This is most likely due to increased PKA-mediated phosphorylation of Calpain-2, which renders the enzyme less active. Analysis of other PKA substrates revealed both increased and reduced phosphorylation.

Conclusion
Our results show the pleiotropic effects of alterations in PKA activity due to Nbea haploinsufficiency, highlighting the important function of the AKAP domain in Nbea in regulating and confining PKA activity. Furthermore, these results suggest a role for Nbea in remodeling the actin cytoskeleton of platelets.
Self-assembled β-Sheet Peptide Nanofibers for Efficient Antigen Delivery
Authors: Waku Tomonori , Kitagawa Yuichi , Kawabata Kazufumi , Nishigaki Saki , Kunugi Shigeru , Tanaka Naoki 
Published: November 2013

Abstract
Highly antigen-loaded nanofibers were successfully prepared by the self-assembly of β-sheet forming peptides conjugated with antigenic peptides and cell penetrating peptides (CPP). The nanofibers with lengths of 240 ± 100 nm were taken up more efficiently by murine macrophage-like cells than monomeric CPP-modified antigenic peptides. This self-assembly approach may provide a facile method for creating nanoparticle-based vaccines without complicated multistep procedures.
Synthesis, Structural Analysis, and Reaction of 3-Aza-5-[7]orthocyclophyne
Authors: Igawa Kazunobu , Kawabata Takeshi , Ni Runyan , Tomooka Katsuhiko 
Published: November 2013

Abstract
A newly synthesized 3-aza-5-[7]orthocyclophyne shows labile planar chirality at ambient temperature. Its halogenation reaction efficiently affords well-functionalized 3-aza-[7]orthocyclophenes with stable planar chirality.
Who Seeks Abortions at or After 20 Weeks?
Authors: Foster Diana Greene , Kimport Katrina 
Published: November 2013

ContextRecent years have seen the introduction of state bills seeking to ban abortions after 20 weeks, but little empirical data exist on who is affected when such bans become law.MethodsAs part of a larger study, 272 women who received an abortion at or after 20 weeks’ gestation and 169 who received first‐trimester abortions at 16 facilities across the country in 2008–2010 were interviewed one week after the procedure. Mixed effect logistic regression analyses were used to determine the characteristics associated with later abortion (i.e., at 20 weeks or later). Causes of delay in obtaining abortion were assessed in open‐ and closed‐ended questions; profiles of women who received later abortions were identified through factor analysis.ResultsWomen aged 20–24 were more likely than those aged 25–34 to have a later abortion (odds ratio, 2.7), and women who discovered their pregnancy before eight weeks’ gestation were less likely than others to do so (0.1). Later abortion recipients experienced logistical delays (e.g., difficulty finding a provider and raising funds for the procedure and travel costs), which compounded other delays in receiving care. Most women seeking later abortion fit at least one of five profiles: They were raising children alone, were depressed or using illicit substances, were in conflict with a male partner or experiencing domestic violence, had trouble deciding and then had access problems, or were young and nulliparous.ConclusionBans on abortion after 20 weeks will disproportionately affect young women and women with limited financial resources.
Reference values of nuchal translucency thickness in a Brazilian population sample: experience from a single center
Authors: Júnior Edward Araujo , Pires Claudio Rodrigues , Martins Wellington P. , Nardozza Luciano Marcondes Machado , Filho Sebastião Marques Zanforlin 
Published: November 2013

Abstract

Objective: To determine the reference values of nuchal translucency (NT) thickness at 11–14 weeks of gestation in a sample of the Brazilian population.

Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was carried out with singleton gestations and fetuses with a crown-rump length (CRL) of 45–84 mm. NT thickness was performed according to the guidelines of the Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF), London, UK. To evaluate the correlation between NT thickness and gestational age (GA), polynomial equations were calculated, with determination coefficient (R2) adjustments, as proposed by Altman-Chitty.

Results: A total of 1420 pregnancies were assessed. The mean of the gestational age was 12.69±0.78 weeks. The mean maternal age was 28.78±6.81 years. The mean NT thickness (mm) for the CRL intervals of 45├50; 50├55; 55├60; 60├65; 65├70; 70├75; 75├80; 80├85 was 1.30±0.74; 1.34±0.60; 1.48±0.48; 1.56±0.68; 1.71±0.67; 1.78±0.69; 1.67±0.43; 1.67±0.58; respectively. The following second-order equation best represented the correlation between NT thickness and GA: NT=–1.2570+0.0765×GA–0.0005×GA2 (R2=0.05).

Conclusion: The reference values for NT thickness were determined for a sample of the Brazilian population. Further studies are required to evaluate the real need for including these values in first-trimester screening for chromosomal defects in Brazil.
New data on the distribution and natural history of the lesser grison (Galictis cuja), hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus chinga), and culpeo (Lycalopex culpaeus) in northwestern Argentina
Authors: Tellaeche Cintia G. , Reppucci Juan I. , Vidal Estela M. Luengos , Lucherini Mauro 
Published: November 2013

AbstractWe present a total of 190 new distribution records of three little-known mammalian carnivores (
A Perspective on Micro-Evo-Devo: Progress and Potential
Authors: Nunes Maria D S , Arif Saad , Schlötterer Christian , McGregor Alistair P 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThe term “micro-evo-devo” refers to the combined study of the genetic and developmental bases of natural variation in populations and the evolutionary forces that have shaped this variation. It thus represents a synthesis of the fields of evolutionary developmental biology and population genetics. As has been pointed out by several others, this synthesis can provide insights into the evolution of organismal form and function that have not been possible within these individual disciplines separately. Despite a number of important successes in micro-evo-devo, however, it appears that evo devo and population genetics remain largely separate spheres of research, limiting their ability to address evolutionary questions. This also risks pushing contemporary evo devo to the fringes of evolutionary biology because it does not describe the causative molecular changes underlying evolution or the evolutionary forces involved. Here we reemphasize the theoretical and practical importance of micro-evo-devo as a strategy for understanding phenotypic evolution, review the key recent insights that it has provided, and present a perspective on both the potential and the remaining challenges of this exciting interdisciplinary field.
The Effect of 3D Visual Simulator on Children’s Visual Acuity - A Pilot Study Comparing Two Different Modalities
Authors: Ide Takeshi , Ishikawa Mariko , Tsubota Kazuo , Miyao Masaru 
Published: November 2013

Purpose :To evaluate the efficacy of two non-surgical interventions of vision improvement in children.Methods :A prospective, randomized, pilot study to compare fogging method and the use of head mounted 3D display. Subjects were children, between 5 to 15 years old, with normal best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and up to -3D myopia. Subjects played a video game as near point work, and received one of the two methods of treatments. Measurements of uncorrected far visual acuity (UCVA), refraction with autorefractometer, and subjective accommodative amplitude were taken 3 times, at the baseline, after the near work, and after the treatment.Results :Both methods applied after near work, improved UCVA. Head mounted 3D display group showed significant improvement in UCVA and resulted in better UCVA than baseline. Fogging group showed improvement in subjective accommodative amplitude. While 3D display group did not show change in the refraction, fogging group’s myopic refraction showed significant increase indicating the eyes showed myopic change of eyes after near work and treatment.Discussion :Despite our lack of clear knowledge in the mechanisms, both methods improved UCVA after the treatments. The improvement in UCVA was not correlated to measured refraction values.Conclusion :UCVA after near work can be improved by repeating near and distant accommodation by fogging and 3D image viewing, although at the different degrees. Further investigation on mechanisms of improvements and their clinical significance are warranted.
Effect of bracket type on halitosis, periodontal status, and microbial colonization
Authors: Nalçacı Ruhi , Özat Yener , Çokakoğlu Serpil , Türkkahraman Hakan , Önal Süleyman , Kaya Selçuk 
Published: November 2013

ABSTRACT

Objective:
To determine the effect of bracket type on halitosis, periodontal status, and microbial colonization.

Materials and Methods:
Forty-six patients scheduled for fixed orthodontic treatment (age 11–16 years) were selected from the orthodontic department of Suleyman Demirel University. Patients were divided into two groups with random distribution of brackets; 23 patients were treated with self-ligating brackets (group SLBs), the others with conventional brackets (group CBs). Halitosis measurements and periodontal and microbial records were obtained before the placement of brackets (T0), 1 week later (T1), and 5 weeks after bonding (T2). Periodontal parameters, including plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), and bleeding on probing index (BOP), were obtained from all the bonded teeth. Halitosis measurements were performed at the same time. Microbial samples were obtained from the buccal surfaces of all the bonded teeth. Data were analyzed by using a repeated-measurement analysis of variance test for the comparison of parameters between groups and times.

Results:
Periodontal parameters and halitosis results were higher in the CBs group than in the SLBs group (P &lt; .05). In the SLBs group, halitosis and BOP values revealed no pronounced changes between T1 and T2 (P &gt; .05). Intra- and intergroup comparisons showed that there were no statistically significant differences for microbial colonization between all the time intervals (P &gt; .05).

Conclusion:
Bracket type has an effect on halitosis and periodontal status. Therefore, self-ligating brackets may be advised in order to prevent patients from developing halitosis and to increase the likelihood of good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment.
Olfaction and gustation abilities after a total laryngectomy
Authors: Mumovic Gordana , Hocevar-Boltezar Irena 
Published: November 2013

Abstract
Background. A laryngectomy affects many of a patient’s functions. Besides speech and respiratory-tract problems, olfaction and gustation problems can also have an influence on the quality of life. The aim of this study was to find out how often various nasal problems and decreased gustation appear after a laryngectomy.
Patients and methods. One hundred and five laryngectomized patients (9 women, 96 men, aged 45-88 years), treated in two tertiary centers, were included in the study. They completed a questionnaire about various nasal problems, olfactory and gustatory capabilities, possible allergies and irritants in their environment, and the impact of the nasal and gustation problems on their quality of life.
Results. Olfaction was impaired in 51.4%, and was even not possible in 30.5%, of patients. Decreased gustation abilities were reported in 26.7%, and dysgeusia in 11.4%, of patients. Almost 21% of patients were bothered by an impaired gustatory ability and 50.5% of patients were affected by their loss of olfaction. Frequent nasal discharge was reported in 20%, frequent sneezing in 58.1%, and nasal itching in 33.3% of the laryngectomized patients. There were no correlations between the age and the olfaction and gustation abilities and between the allergy and the nasal symptoms, whereas the correlation between olfaction and gustation appeared significant (p=0.025).
Conclusions. Various nasal and gustatory problems were reported in more than 80% of laryngectomized patients. The olfaction and gustation abilities are connected and have a substantial impact on the quality of life. Like in the case of speech, the rehabilitation of olfaction is also necessary in all laryngectomized patients and must take place soon after the completion of the treatment.