bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The prevalence of metabolic syndrome among low-income South Asian Americans
Authors: Khan Saira A , Jackson Robert T 
Published: July 2015

AbstractObjectiveThe purpose of the present paper is to examine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components using the harmonized definition in an interviewed sub-sample of diverse, low-income, adult South Asians (SA) of both sexes residing in Maryland. We also wanted to derive a BMI cut-off value that was highly correlated with the recommended waist circumference (WC) that we could apply to a larger sample of SA Americans for whom only BMI values were available from clinic files. We also examined differences in MetS prevalence among various Asian ethnic groups (defined by country of origin) and the clustering pattern of their MetS components.DesignClinical data extraction on subjects (n1002) and interviewees (n401) were used in a cross-sectional study of SA Americans.SettingTwo community health centres in Montgomery and Baltimore County, MD, USA.SubjectsSA adult males and females (n1403) aged 20–68 years.ResultsThe prevalence of MetS using harmonized WC cut-offs (90 cm in men and 80 cm in women) was 47 % in men and 54 % in women. Using a BMI of 23·0 kg/m2gave a similar prevalence of MetS for males (48 %) and females (47 %). Of the five MetS components, the prevalence pattern differed among the ethnic groups, particularly for SA Indians.ConclusionsThe prevalence of MetS in a diverse, low-income, SA American immigrant group using the harmonized definition was 51 %. Derived lowered BMI cut-off of 23·0 kg/m2should be used by clinicians in studies on SA when WC values are not available for detecting metabolic risk. SA Indians had a higher prevalence of abnormal TAG and blood glucose values compared with other SA, and therefore results for SA Indians should not be generalized to all SA ethnic groups.
Snacking between main meals is associated with a higher risk of metabolic syndrome in a Mediterranean cohort: the SUN Project (Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra)
Authors: Pimenta Adriano M , Bes-Rastrollo Maira , Gea Alfredo , Sayón-Orea Carmen , Zazpe Itziar , Lopez-Iracheta Roberto , Martinez-Gonzalez Miguel A 
Published: July 2015

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate the association of snacking between main meals with the risk of developing metabolic syndrome.DesignA dynamic prospective cohort study (the SUN Project; Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra). Snack consumption was evaluated using the question: ‘Do you have the habit of snacking between main meals?’ Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the updated harmonizing criteria. We estimated multivariable-adjusted relative risks (RR) of metabolic syndrome and their 95 % confidence intervals using Poisson regression models. An exploratory factor analysis was also used to identify patterns of snacking.SettingUniversity of Navarra, Spain.SubjectsThe study included 6851 university graduates, initially free of metabolic syndrome, and followed-up them for a median of 8·3 years.ResultsAmong our participants, 34·6 % reported usual snacking between main meals. The cumulative incidence of metabolic syndrome was 5·1 % (9·5 % among men and 2·8 % among women). Snacking between main meals was significantly associated with higher risk for developing metabolic syndrome after multivariable adjustment (RR=1·44; 95 %CI 1·18, 1·77). Higher adherence to an ‘unhealthy snacking pattern’ was also independently associated with increased incidence of metabolic syndrome (fourth quartile of adherence compared with non-snacking: RR=1·68; 95 % CI 1·23, 2·29; P for trend <0·001).ConclusionsOur findings suggest that avoidance of snacking between main meals can be included among the preventive approaches to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome development, especially when snacks contain foods of poor nutritional quality.
Accurate Nanoscale Crystallography in Real-Space Using Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Dycus J. Houston , Harris Joshua S. , Sang Xiahan , Fancher Chris M. , Findlay Scott D. , Oni Adedapo A. , Chan Tsung-ta E. , Koch Carl C. , Jones Jacob L. , Allen Leslie J. , Irving Douglas L. , LeBeau James M. 
Published: July 2015

AbstractHere, we report reproducible and accurate measurement of crystallographic parameters using scanning transmission electron microscopy. This is made possible by removing drift and residual scan distortion. We demonstrate real-space lattice parameter measurements with <0.1% error for complex-layered chalcogenides Bi2Te3, Bi2Se3, and a Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 nanostructured alloy. Pairing the technique with atomic resolution spectroscopy, we connect local structure with chemistry and bonding. Combining these results with density functional theory, we show that the incorporation of Se into Bi2Te3 causes charge redistribution that anomalously increases the van der Waals gap between building blocks of the layered structure. The results show that atomic resolution imaging with electrons can accurately and robustly quantify crystallography at the nanoscale.
Intensive symptom control of opioid-refractory dyspnea in congestive heart failure: Role of milrinone in the palliative care unit
Authors: Silvestre Julio , Montoya Maria , Bruera Eduardo , Elsayem Ahmed 
Published: July 2015

AbstractObjective:We describe an exemplary case of congestive heart failure (CHF) symptoms controlled with milrinone. We also analyze the benefits and risks of milrinone administration in an unmonitored setting.Method:We describe the case of a patient with refractory leukemia and end-stage CHF who developed severe dyspnea after discontinuation of milrinone. At that point, despite starting opioids, she had been severely dyspneic and anxious, requiring admission to the palliative care unit (PCU) for symptom control. After negotiation with hospital administrators, milrinone was administered in an unmonitored setting such as the PCU. A multidisciplinary team approach was also provided.Results:Milrinone produced a dramatic improvement in the patient's symptom scores and performance status. The patient was eventually discharged to home hospice on a milrinone infusion with excellent symptom control.Significance of Results:This case suggests that milrinone may be of benefit for short-term inpatient administration for dyspnea management, even in unmonitored settings and consequently during hospice in do-not-resuscitate (DNR) patients. This strategy may reduce costs and readmissions to the hospital related to end-stage CHF.
Development and psychometric evaluation of patient needs assessment in palliative care (PNAP) instrument
Authors: Buzgova Radka , Kozakova Radka , Sikorova Lucie , Zelenikova Renata , Jarosova Darja 
Published: July 2015

AbstractObjective:Although assessment of palliative patients' needs is a key issue in palliative care, a suitable instrument for identification of such needs is not available in Central European countries. Our objectives were to produce an adequate tool for identifying the importance and satisfaction of palliative patients' needs and to verify its psychometric properties.Method:The patient needs assessment in palliative care (PNAP) instrument was constructed based on a literature review and qualitative research (focus groups,n= 5). The psychometric properties of the questionnaire were verified by a cross-sectional study. The convergent validity of the questionnaire was determined by confirmatory factor analysis. Furthermore, internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and construct validity were also tested. The qualitative research group comprised 30 participants (27 experts in palliative care, 1 patient, and 2 family members). Psychometric properties were evaluated in a group of 349 hospital inpatients terminally ill with chronic disease or cancer and receiving palliative care.Results:Based on the qualitative data analysis, a questionnaire was constructed that contained 42 items grouped into 5 domains. When testing the psychometric properties of the questionnaire, a new model containing 40 items in 7 domains was produced. Cronbach's α for the entire PNAP questionnaire was 0.89 on the importance scale and 0.80 on the satisfaction scale. Test–retest reliability was higher than 0.7 for all domains in both scales.Significance of Results:The results of tests on the psychometric properties of the PNAP questionnaire showed at least satisfactory validity and reliability, and it can be employed to assess the needs of palliative care patients in Central European countries.
Enhancing student communication during end-of-life care: A pilot study
Authors: Bloomfield Jacqueline G. , O'Neill Bernadette , Gillett Karen 
Published: July 2015

AbstractBackground:Quality end-of-life care requires effective communication skills, yet medical and nursing students report limited opportunities to develop these skills, and that they lack confidence and the related competence.Objectives:Our purpose was to design, implement, and evaluate an educational intervention employing simulated patient actors to enhance students' abilities to communicate with dying patients and their families.Methods:A study employing a mixed-methods design was conducted with prequalification nursing and medical students recruited from a London university. The first phase involved focus groups with students, which informed the development of an educational intervention involving simulated patient actors. Questionnaires measuring students' perceptions of confidence and competence levels when communicating with dying patients and their families were administered before and after the intervention.Results:The themes from focus groups related to responding to grief and anger, difficulties dealing with emotions, knowing the “right thing” to say, and a lack of experience. A significant increase (p< 0.5) in competence and confidence from baseline levels followed participation in the simulated scenarios.Significance of Results:Simulation was found to be an effective means of preparing students to communicate with dying patients and their families. The opportunity to develop communication skills was valued. Integration of educational interventions employing simulated patient actors into nursing and medical curricula may assist in improving the care provided to patients at the end of life.
Experiencing Effects of Cocaine and Speed with Self-Regulation Therapy
Authors: Amigó Salvador , Ferrández Claudia 
Published: July 2015

AbstractThis study demonstrates the efficacy of Self-Regulation Therapy (SRT) to induce effects of cocaine and speed in a single session. SRT is a suggestion procedure of sensorial recall exercises (salivation, feeling of weight, tension, etc.) that increases the capacity to reproduce all sensation types and those that drugs produce. The Self-Regulation Scale (SRS) measures this capacity. Four groups participated, formed according to drug use: Group 1 (uses no illegal drugs); Group 2 (experimentally uses cannabis only); Group 3 (moderate drug users); Group 4 (regular drug users, especially stimulants). All four groups participated in an SRT session to induce relaxation. No differences in the SRS were found. Group 4 also participated in a session that reproduced effects of drugs with SRT, when Euphoria and the Effects of drugs score (high and rush) substantially increased in relation to the base-line (MD = –5.83; p < .001; and MD = -3; p < .001, respectively) and in relation to the relaxation session (MD = –4.06; p < .001; and MD = -1.96; p < .05, respectively). A profile predicting SRT efficacy was also obtained to induce the effects of cocaine and speed: low Conscientiousness and high Openness and SRS scores. Finally, the potential use of this procedure to treat addictions, and strategy development towards more controlled, responsible drug use, are discussed.
Spanish and Chilean Standardizations of the Personality Assessment Inventory: the Influence of Sex
Authors: Ortiz-Tallo Margarita , Cardenal Violeta , Ferragut Marta , Santamaría Pablo 
Published: July 2015

AbstractThere is growing interest in the adaptation of psychological questionnaires in different countries, due to the need for cross-cultural research using the same tests adapted to diverse populations. This paper presents the standardization of the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI; Morey, 1991, 2007) in Spain and Chile (both Spanish-speaking countries). The Spanish sample was made up of 940 people (461 men and 479 women), and the Chilean sample of 569 people (231 men and 338 women). Results revealed that the Chilean means were higher than those of the Spanish sample at confidence level 99.9%, although the associated effect sizes were generally small to moderate (partial eta-square between 0.008 and 0.187). Sex differences in the variables evaluated were commented on, and the importance of cross-cultural research and the influence of sex on personality and psychopathology variables were discussed.
Pyridoxamine is a substrate of the energy-coupling factor transporter HmpT
Authors: Wang Tingliang , de Jesus Armando Jerome , Shi Yigong , Yin Hang 
Published: July 2015

AbstractEnergy-coupling factor (ECF) transporters belong to a novel family of proteins that forms a subset within the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter family. These proteins are responsible for the uptake of micronutrients in bacteria. ECF transporters are composed of four proteins: the A- and A′-components, the T-component and the S-component. One of the ECF transporters, named HmpT, was crystallized in theapoform with all four components. It is currently unknown whether HmpT serves as a transporter for hydroxymethyl pyrimidine or the different forms of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine, pyridoxal or pyridoxamine). Using a combination of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and mass spectrometry, we have identified pyridoxamine to be the preferred substrate of HmpT. Mass spectra show that the mass of the substrate from the HmpT–substrate complex matches that of pyridoxamine. MD simulations likewise indicate that pyridoxamine interacts most strongly with most of the conserved residues of the S-component (Glu 41, His 84 and Gln 43) compared with the other vitamin B6 forms. Furthermore, the simulations have implied that loops 1 and 5 of the S-component can participate in the gating action for HmpT.
Structures of the APC–ARM domain in complexes with discrete Amer1/WTX fragments reveal that it uses a consensus mode to recognize its binding partners
Authors: Zhang Zhenyi , Akyildiz Senem , Xiao Yafei , Gai Zhongchao , An Ying , Behrens Jürgen , Wu Geng 
Published: July 2015

AbstractThe tumor suppressor APC employs its conserved armadillo repeat (ARM) domain to recognize many of its binding partners, including Amer1/WTX, which is mutated in Wilms' tumor and bone overgrowth syndrome. The APC–Amer1 complex has important roles in regulating Wnt signaling and cell adhesion. Three sites A1, A2, and A3 of Amer1 have been reported to mediate its interaction with APC-ARM. In this study, crystal structures of APC–ARM in complexes with Amer1-A1, -A2, and -A4, which is newly identified in this work, were determined. Combined with our GST pull-down, yeast two-hybrid, and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) assay results using mutants of APC and Amer1 interface residues, our structures demonstrate that Amer1-A1, -A2, and -A4, as well as other APC-binding proteins such as Asef and Sam68, all employ a common recognition pattern to associate with APC–ARM. In contrast, Amer1-A3 binds to the C-terminal side of APC–ARM through a bipartite interaction mode. Composite mutations on either APC or Amer1 disrupting all four interfaces abrogated their association in cultured cells and impaired the membrane recruitment of APC by Amer1. Our study thus comprehensively elucidated the recognition mechanism between APC and Amer1, and revealed a consensus recognition sequence employed by various APC–ARM binding partners.
Self-organizing human cardiac microchambers mediated by geometric confinement
Authors: Ma Zhen , Wang Jason , Loskill Peter , Huebsch Nathaniel , Koo Sangmo , Svedlund Felicia L. , Marks Natalie C. , Hua Ethan W. , Grigoropoulos Costas P. , Conklin Bruce R. , Healy Kevin E. 
Published: July 2015

AbstractTissue morphogenesis and organ formation are the consequences of biochemical and biophysical cues that lead to cellular spatial patterning in development. To model such events in vitro, we use PEG-patterned substrates to geometrically confine human pluripotent stem cell colonies and spatially present mechanical stress. Modulation of the WNT/β-catenin pathway promotes spatial patterning via geometric confinement of the cell condensation process during epithelial–mesenchymal transition, forcing cells at the perimeter to express an OCT4+ annulus, which is coincident with a region of higher cell density and E-cadherin expression. The biochemical and biophysical cues synergistically induce self-organizing lineage specification and creation of a beating human cardiac microchamber confined by the pattern geometry. These highly defined human cardiac microchambers can be used to study aspects of embryonic spatial patterning, early cardiac development and drug-induced developmental toxicity.
A highly selective biosynthetic pathway to non-natural C50 carotenoids assembled from moderately selective enzymes
Authors: Furubayashi Maiko , Ikezumi Mayu , Takaichi Shinichi , Maoka Takashi , Hemmi Hisashi , Ogawa Takuya , Saito Kyoichi , Tobias Alexander V , Umeno Daisuke 
Published: July 2015

AbstractSynthetic biology aspires to construct natural and non-natural pathways to useful compounds. However, pathways that rely on multiple promiscuous enzymes may branch, which might preclude selective production of the target compound. Here, we describe the assembly of a six-enzyme pathway in Escherichia coli for the synthesis of C50-astaxanthin, a non-natural purple carotenoid. We show that by judicious matching of engineered size-selectivity variants of the first two enzymes in the pathway, farnesyl diphosphate synthase (FDS) and carotenoid synthase (CrtM), branching and the production of non-target compounds can be suppressed, enriching the proportion of C50 backbones produced. We then further extend the C50 pathway using evolved or wild-type downstream enzymes. Despite not containing any substrate- or product-specific enzymes, the resulting pathway detectably produces only C50 carotenoids, including ∼90% C50-astaxanthin. Using this approach, highly selective pathways can be engineered without developing absolutely specific enzymes.
Observations of discrete harmonics emerging from equatorial noise
Authors: Balikhin Michael A. , Shprits Yuri Y. , Walker Simon N. , Chen Lunjin , Cornilleau-Wehrlin Nicole , Dandouras Iannis , Santolik Ondrej , Carr Christopher , Yearby Keith H. , Weiss Benjamin 
Published: July 2015

AbstractA number of modes of oscillations of particles and fields can exist in space plasmas. Since the early 1970s, space missions have observed noise-like plasma waves near the geomagnetic equator known as ‘equatorial noise’. Several theories were suggested, but clear observational evidence supported by realistic modelling has not been provided. Here we report on observations by the Cluster mission that clearly show the highly structured and periodic pattern of these waves. Very narrow-banded emissions at frequencies corresponding to exact multiples of the proton gyrofrequency (frequency of gyration around the field line) from the 17th up to the 30th harmonic are observed, indicating that these waves are generated by the proton distributions. Simultaneously with these coherent periodic structures in waves, the Cluster spacecraft observes ‘ring’ distributions of protons in velocity space that provide the free energy for the waves. Calculated wave growth based on ion distributions shows a very similar pattern to the observations.
Anhedonia in the psychosis risk syndrome: associations with social impairment and basal orbitofrontal cortical activity
Authors: Cressman Victoria L , Schobel Scott A , Steinfeld Sara , Ben-David Shelly , Thompson Judy L , Small Scott A , Moore Holly , Corcoran Cheryl M 
Published: July 2015

Abstract
Background/Objectives:
Anhedonia is associated with poor social function in schizophrenia. Here, we examined this association in individuals at clinical high risk (CHR) for schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders, taking into account social anxiety. We then explored correlations between anhedonia and basal metabolic activity in selected forebrain regions implicated in reward processing.

Methods:
In 62 CHR individuals and 37 healthy controls, we measured social adjustment (Social Adjustment Self-Report Scale), social and physical anhedonia (Chapman Revised Anhedonia Scales), and social anxiety (Social Anxiety Scale for Adolescents) in cross-section. In a subgroup of 25 CHR individuals for whom high-spatial-resolution basal-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data were available, we also assessed correlations of these socio-affective constructs with basal cerebral blood volume in orbitofrontal cortex and related regions involved in reward processing.

Results:
Relative to controls, CHR individuals reported social impairment, greater social and physical anhedonia, and more social anxiety, exhibiting impairments comparable to schizophrenia. Regression analyses showed that anhedonia predicted social impairment and correlated negatively with basal cerebral blood volume within the orbitofrontal cortex (all P’s<0.05).

Conclusions:
Anhedonia and social anxiety are prominent in CHR individuals. Trait-like anhedonia may be a core phenotype related to orbitofrontal cortical function that, independent of symptoms, predicts social impairment. These data provide a rationale for interventions that target anhedonia and related activity in orbitofrontal cortical circuits in CHR individuals.
Mitochondrial oxidative stress promotes atrial fibrillation
Authors: Xie Wenjun , Santulli Gaetano , Reiken Steven R. , Yuan Qi , Osborne Brent W. , Chen Bi-Xing , Marks Andrew R. 
Published: July 2015

AbstractOxidative stress has been suggested to play a role in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). Indeed, the prevalence of AF increases with age as does oxidative stress. However, the mechanisms linking redox state to AF are not well understood. In this study we identify a link between oxidative stress and aberrant intracellular Ca2+ release via the type 2 ryanodine receptor (RyR2) that promotes AF. We show that RyR2 are oxidized in the atria of patients with chronic AF compared with individuals in sinus rhythm. To dissect the molecular mechanism linking RyR2 oxidation to AF we used two murine models harboring RyR2 mutations that cause intracellular Ca2+ leak. Mice with intracellular Ca2+ leak exhibited increased atrial RyR2 oxidation, mitochondrial dysfunction, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and AF susceptibility. Both genetic inhibition of mitochondrial ROS production and pharmacological treatment of RyR2 leakage prevented AF. Collectively, our results indicate that alterations of RyR2 and mitochondrial ROS generation form a vicious cycle in the development of AF. Targeting this previously unrecognized mechanism could be useful in developing effective interventions to prevent and treat AF.