bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Pre‐pregnancy body mass index, weight change during pregnancy, and risk of intellectual disability in children
Authors: Mann JR , McDermott SW , Hardin J , Pan C , Zhang Z 
Published: November 2012

ObjectiveThis study investigated pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and weight change in pregnancy as potential risk factors for intellectual disability (ID) in children.DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingSouth Carolina, USA.PopulationA total of 78 675 mother–child pairs, insured by the South Carolina Medicaid programme, born in the period 2004–2007.MethodsWe analysed South Carolina Medicaid data, linked to data from both the South Carolina Department of Education (DOE) and the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN). Maternal pre‐pregnancy BMI and weight change during pregnancy were obtained from birth certificates. ID cases were identified from the three sources listed above. We used generalised estimating equation logistic regression models to model the odds of ID in children.Main outcome measuresIdentified as having ID in special education, DDSN, or Medicaid billing records.ResultsThe risk of ID was greater in children of women with pre‐pregnancy obesity, and the risk was greatest in children born to women with morbid obesity (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.30–1.77 for ID of any severity; OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.23–2.45 for severe ID). Gestational weight change (gain or loss) was not significantly associated with odds of ID.ConclusionsPre‐pregnancy obesity may be a modifiable risk factor for ID in children, although further study is needed to evaluate whether the association meets criteria for causation.
Pleomorphic adenoma presenting with a mediastinal mass
Authors: Lee Young Kyung , Kim Yee Hyung , Kim Gou Young , Youn Hyo Chul 
Published: November 2012

AbstractPleomorphic adenoma is the most common type of salivary gland tumor. Although it rarely affects the trachea and bronchus, it usually grows in the airway and presents as an endobronchial mass. We recently experienced a case of pleomorphic adenoma originating in the bronchus and growing outward into the mediastinum. We present this case with review of the computed tomography (CT) scan of the patient's chest, the endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and the histopathology report.
Programmable, miniature video‐loggers for deployment on wild birds and other wildlife
Authors: Rutz Christian , Troscianko Jolyon 
Published: November 2012

Summary

Animal‐borne miniature video cameras hold the potential to revolutionise field ornithological research, with their ability to collect detailed behavioural data from a bird's eye view, in places and contexts where conventional observation techniques would fail.
Here, we describe the development of a new generation of solid‐state video‐loggers that are cheap, light‐weight, programmable and easy to use and that overcome many problems associated with earlier transmission‐based technologies.
Our loggers weigh c. 12·3–13·6 g fully packaged for deployment and record up to 94 min of video footage, at 640 × 480 pixels and 19·7 frames per second, on a 4‐GB micro‐SD card. Loggers are fitted with a custom‐designed, microprocessor‐controlled timer that enables flexible duty‐cycling, switching the unit on and off following a preprogrammed schedule. Packaged loggers contain a miniature very high frequency (VHF) radio‐tag (battery life c. 5–9 weeks) for positional tracking of the bird before, during and after scheduled video shoots, and to enable logger recovery for data download.
To make our loggers suitable for deployment on wild birds, we developed novel techniques: (i) for the light‐weight packaging of electronics (thin sheets produced from thermoplastic) and (ii) for the attachment of units to, and their controlled release from, subjects (UV‐sensitive, rapidly degrading rubber tubing). Loggers can be manufactured at comparatively low cost (components are c. 94 GBP, plus c. 145 GBP for the VHF radio‐tag) and are easily refurbished after recovery, making the technology suitable for large‐scale deployments and projects on modest research budgets.
A study in 2009/2010, with logger deployments on 19 wild New Caledonian crows Corvus moneduloides, demonstrated that our new technology is field‐worthy and that it can generate rich data sets on the foraging behaviour, habitat use and social interactions of an elusive bird species.
The young field of wildlife video‐tracking is maturing quickly, and in only a few years, technology has advanced sufficiently to enable cost‐effective, hypothesis‐driven field studies of terrestrial birds, mammals and reptiles. Large‐scale deployment of video‐loggers can generate data sets of unprecedented information content, promising major quantitative insights in basic and applied ecology.
Familial mediterranean fever – an increasingly important childhood disease in Sweden
Authors: Wekell P , Friman V , Balci‐Peynircioglu B , Yilmaz E , Fasth A , Berg S 
Published: November 2012

AbstractAimTo characterize Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) in western Sweden, focusing on genotype, clinical picture, prevalence and age of onset as well as time to diagnosis.MethodsPatients with autoinflammatory diseases are continuously registered at the five main hospitals in Western Sweden. Case records of patients with FMF were analysed retrospectively. Population data on immigration was retrieved from Statistics Sweden.ResultsUntil 2008, 37 patients with FMF were identified. The prevalence among inhabitants of Turkish, Lebanese, Syrian and Iranian origin was 173, 124, 86 and 17/100 000, respectively. Median age at first symptoms was 4 years (range 3 month–37 years) and at diagnosis 10 years (range 2–44 years). Median time from first symptoms to diagnosis was 4 years (range <1 year–34 years). Among 32 patients screened for twelve common mutations, 75% were homozygotes or compound heterozygotes, 16% were heterozygotes and in 9% no mutation was found. In our cohort the frequencies of symptoms were fever 100%, peritonitis 92%, pleuritis 22% and arthritis 11%.ConclusionsThe majority of patients with FMF present during childhood. The prevalence among immigrants in western Sweden is in the same range as in their country of origin. Time to diagnosis needs to be shortened by means of increased awareness of the disease.
Physical and social functioning in adolescents with rheumatological conditions: a study of predictors
Authors: Gauntlett‐Gilbert Jeremy , Kavirayani Akhila , Clinch Jacqui 
Published: November 2012

AbstractAimThis study examines possible predictors of physical and social functioning in adolescents with rheumatological conditions. Condition‐related variables and psychosocial variables were studied, and their relative contribution as predictors was examined.MethodsThe study population was one hundred and twelve adolescents (11–18 years) attending secondary and tertiary paediatric rheumatology outpatient clinics in south‐west England. These adolescents completed validated self‐report accounts of disease history, pain and functioning (condition‐related variables) and the Bath Adolescent Pain Questionnaire (psychosocial variables). Correlation and regression analyses were used to establish influences on physical and social functioning, examining condition‐related variables and psychosocial variables as separate blocks.ResultsPhysical functioning was independently associated with age at onset, intensity of pain, presence of depression and pain‐specific anxiety. Social functioning was only associated with general anxiety. The presence of an inflammatory diagnosis had no bearing on optimal functioning in this study.ConclusionCondition‐related variables (age at onset, pain intensity) and psychosocial variables (depression, pain‐specific anxiety) were equally important for physical functioning, whereas psychosocial variables (general anxiety) were more influential for social functioning. Understanding the impact of disease and associated variables in the adolescent rheumatology population should optimize targeted multidisciplinary rehabilitation for the young person and their family.
Rodlet cells in epidermal explant cultures of Lepomis Macrochirus
Authors: DePasquale Joseph A. 
Published: November 2012

AbstractSunfish rodlet cells were examined in vitro using a novel tissue explant system. Outgrowth of epidermal cell layers from explanted fish scales enabled both live cell videomicroscopy and immunocytochemical analysis of rodlet cells within the cell layer. Cells stained with fluorescent phallotoxin and antibody to tubulin showed that F‐actin is a component of the fibrous capsule that envelopes the cell and a microtubule network extends from the basal to apical ends of the cell interior. The fibrous capsule is also enriched for phosphotyrosine suggesting a potential signal‐transducing capability is present in this structure. Videomicroscopy analysis of live explant cultures demonstrated that rodlet cells are immobile and that interior structures are highly dynamic. Rodlet sacs can undergo extension and retraction, while intracellular particles can move rapidly within these cells. Fish scale tissue explants provide a useful system for analyzing the molecular composition and dynamic behavior of rodlet cells.
Evaluation of seasonality in the diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia among adults in the United States, 1992–2008
Authors: Calip Gregory S. , McDougall Jean A. , Wheldon Mark C. , Li Christopher I. , De Roos Anneclaire J. 
Published: November 2012

SummaryRecent studies have suggested seasonal variation in the diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), and the aetiological role seasonal factors may play in this group of haematological neoplasms remains unclear. We evaluated potential seasonality of AML diagnosis among adults. Cases included were ascertained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 13 registries from 1992–2008. Chi‐square analysis for heterogeneity and multiple Poisson regression using parametric harmonic modelling and bootstrap testing were used to detect possible monthly variation. Months of peak diagnoses were December and January, although some variation was present by sex and age. Heterogeneity across months was statistically significant (P < 0·001). In stratified analyses, monthly variation was detected only among males (P = 0·009) and in cases aged 65 years and older (P = 0·031). Poisson regression found no seasonal effect among all cases when fit to the sinusoidal model (P = 0·110). However, similar variation among males (P = 0·009) and cases aged 65 years and older (P = 0·018) was present. There is growing evidence of seasonality in AML diagnosis, particularly among older persons and men. Investigation of specific seasonal risk factors would be informative in explaining the aetiology behind the observed variation.
Transcellular tunnel dynamics: Control of cellular dewetting by actomyosin contractility and I‐BAR proteins
Authors: Lemichez Emmanuel , Gonzalez‐Rodriguez David , Bassereau Patricia , Brochard‐Wyart Françoise 
Published: November 2012

AbstractDewetting is the spontaneous withdrawal of a liquid film from a non‐wettable surface by nucleation and growth of dry patches. Two recent reports now propose that the principles of dewetting explain the physical phenomena underpinning the opening of transendothelial cell macroaperture (TEM) tunnels, referred to as cellular dewetting. This was discovered by studying a group of bacterial toxins endowed with the property of corrupting actomyosin cytoskeleton contractility. For both liquid and cellular dewetting, the growth of holes is governed by a competition between surface forces and line tension. We also discuss how the dynamics of TEM opening and closure represent remarkable systems to investigate actin cytoskeleton regulation by sensors of plasma membrane curvature and investigate the impact on membrane tension and the role of TEM in vascular dysfunctions.
Citrus fruit and fabacea secondary metabolites potently and selectively block TRPM3
Authors: Straub I , Mohr F , Stab J , Konrad M , Philipp SE , Oberwinkler J , Schaefer M 
Published: November 2012

Background and PurposeThe melastatin‐related transient receptor potential TRPM3 is a calcium‐permeable nonselective cation channel that can be activated by the neurosteroid pregnenolone sulphate (PregS) and heat. TRPM3‐deficient mice show an impaired perception of noxious heat. Hence, drugs inhibiting TRPM3 possibly get in focus of analgesic therapy.Experimental ApproachFluorometric methods were used to identify novel TRPM3‐blocking compounds and to characterize their potency and selectivity to block TRPM3 but not other sensory TRP channels. Biophysical properties of the block were assessed using electrophysiological methods. Single cell calcium measurements confirmed the block of endogenously expressed TRPM3 channels in rat and mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurones.Key ResultsBy screening a compound library, we identified three natural compounds as potent blockers of TRPM3. Naringenin and hesperetin belong to the citrus fruit flavanones, and ononetin is a deoxybenzoin. Eriodictyol, a metabolite of naringenin and hesperetin, was still biologically active as a TRPM3 blocker. The compounds exhibited a marked specificity for recombinant TRPM3 and blocked PregS‐induced [Ca2+]i signals in freshly isolated DRG neurones.Conclusion and ImplicationsThe data indicate that citrus fruit flavonoids are potent and selective blockers of TRPM3. Their potencies ranged from upper nanomolar to lower micromolar concentrations. Since physiological functions of TRPM3 channels are still poorly defined, the development and validation of potent and selective blockers is expected to contribute to clarifying the role of TRPM3 in vivo. Considering the involvement of TRPM3 in nociception, TRPM3 blockers may represent a novel concept for analgesic treatment.
Estimating animal population density using passive acoustics
Authors: Marques Tiago A. , Thomas Len , Martin Stephen W. , Mellinger David K. , Ward Jessica A. , Moretti David J. , Harris Danielle , Tyack Peter L. 
Published: November 2012

ABSTRACTReliable estimation of the size or density of wild animal populations is very important for effective wildlife management, conservation and ecology. Currently, the most widely used methods for obtaining such estimates involve either sighting animals from transect lines or some form of capture‐recapture on marked or uniquely identifiable individuals. However, many species are difficult to sight, and cannot be easily marked or recaptured. Some of these species produce readily identifiable sounds, providing an opportunity to use passive acoustic data to estimate animal density. In addition, even for species for which other visually based methods are feasible, passive acoustic methods offer the potential for greater detection ranges in some environments (e.g. underwater or in dense forest), and hence potentially better precision. Automated data collection means that surveys can take place at times and in places where it would be too expensive or dangerous to send human observers.Here, we present an overview of animal density estimation using passive acoustic data, a relatively new and fast‐developing field. We review the types of data and methodological approaches currently available to researchers and we provide a framework for acoustics‐based density estimation, illustrated with examples from real‐world case studies. We mention moving sensor platforms (e.g. towed acoustics), but then focus on methods involving sensors at fixed locations, particularly hydrophones to survey marine mammals, as acoustic‐based density estimation research to date has been concentrated in this area. Primary among these are methods based on distance sampling and spatially explicit capture‐recapture. The methods are also applicable to other aquatic and terrestrial sound‐producing taxa.We conclude that, despite being in its infancy, density estimation based on passive acoustic data likely will become an important method for surveying a number of diverse taxa, such as sea mammals, fish, birds, amphibians, and insects, especially in situations where inferences are required over long periods of time. There is considerable work ahead, with several potentially fruitful research areas, including the development of (i) hardware and software for data acquisition, (ii) efficient, calibrated, automated detection and classification systems, and (iii) statistical approaches optimized for this application. Further, survey design will need to be developed, and research is needed on the acoustic behaviour of target species. Fundamental research on vocalization rates and group sizes, and the relation between these and other factors such as season or behaviour state, is critical. Evaluation of the methods under known density scenarios will be important for empirically validating the approaches presented here.
Factors associated with serum thyroglobulin levels in a population living in Belarus
Authors: Cahoon Elizabeth K. , Rozhko Alexander , Hatch Maureen , Polyanskaya Olga , Ostroumova Evgenia , Tang Min , Nadirov Eldar , Yauseyenka Vasilina , Savasteeva Irina , McConnell Robert J. , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Brenner Alina V. 
Published: November 2012

SummaryObjectiveSerum thyroglobulin (Tg) has been associated with a number of thyroid disorders and has been proposed as an indicator of iodine deficiency in a population. However, few studies have addressed the epidemiology of Tg in a population‐based setting or in the context of exposure to radioactive iodine‐131 (I‐131). Our objective was to evaluate baseline levels of Tg in relation to sociodemographic characteristics, iodine status and thyroid function for individuals exposed to I‐131.DesignA population‐based cohort assembled in Belarus following the Chornobyl accident provided demographic factors, clinical data and physiological measurements.ParticipantsOur analytical sample included 10 344 subjects of whom 7890 had no thyroid disease and 2454 had evidence of structural or functional thyroid abnormality.MeasurementsStandardized assays were used to measure serum Tg, urinary iodine, TSH and antibodies to Tg and thyroid peroxidase. Ultrasound was used to assess the presence of nodules and estimate thyroid volume.ResultsIn the fully adjusted model, percent change in Tg was significantly increased among females, smokers and subjects of older age and Tg increased with decreasing urinary iodine concentration, increasing serum TSH and increasing thyroid volume (P‐values for trend <0·0001), and presence of thyroid nodules (P < 0·05). We found a complex interaction between region of residence, rural/urban living, presence/absence of thyroid abnormalities and serum Tg (P < 0·0001).ConclusionsIn residents of Belarus, serum Tg is significantly related to presence of thyroid abnormalities as well as indicators of thyroid function and iodine deficiency and, therefore, could be used to characterize the iodine status and thyroid function of individuals in the context of epidemiological study.
What is the best approach to tailoring hydrocortisone dose to meet patient needs in 2012?
Authors: Debono Miguel , Ross Richard J. 
Published: November 2012

SummaryCortisol is an essential stress hormone and replacement with oral hydrocortisone is lifesaving in patients with adrenal insufficiency. Cortisol has a diurnal rhythm regulated by the central body clock and this rhythm is a metabolic signal for peripheral tissue clocks. Loss of cortisol rhythmicity is associated with fatigue, depression and insulin resistance. A general principle in endocrinology is to replace hormones to replicate physiological concentrations; however, the pharmacokinetics of oral immediate‐release hydrocortisone make it impossible to fully mimic the cortisol rhythm and patients still have an increased morbidity and mortality despite replacement. Traditionally, physicians have replaced hydrocortisone with a total daily dose based on the diurnal 24‐h cortisol production rate with hydrocortisone given twice or thrice daily, with the highest dose first thing in the morning. Monitoring treatment and dose titration has been much debated with some clinicians using cortisol day curves and others relying on clinical symptoms. The main challenge is that there is no established biomarker of cortisol activity. In addressing the clinical question, we have taken the view that an understanding of the cortisol circadian rhythm and hydrocortisone pharmacokinetics is essential when tailoring hydrocortisone dose. Using this approach, we have developed a thrice daily, weight‐related, dosing regimen and a pharmacokinetic and clinical method to monitor treatment. Our argument for replicating the cortisol circadian rhythm is based on the observation that disruption of the rhythm is associated with ill health, and the few studies that have compared different treatment regimens. Further studies are required to definitively test the benefits of replacing the cortisol circadian rhythm in patients with adrenal insufficiency.
Minimally Invasive Sinus Lift Implant Device: A Multicenter Safety and Efficacy Trial Preliminary Results
Authors: Better Hadar , Slavescu Dragos , Barbu Horia , Cochran David L. , Chaushu Gabi 
Published: November 2012

AbstractPurposeIn cases of advanced maxillary sinus atrophy of the bone (pneumatization), the sinus floor has to be augmented in order to obtain acceptable bone volume for implantation. The objective of the present study is to evaluate a new procedure and device, designed as a closed sinus lift using a dedicated dental implant that allows for Schneiderian membrane elevation and the placement of a flowable bone replacement graft.Materials and MethodsEighteen patients (8 males, 10 females) underwent 23 procedures. All procedures were completed successfully, with elevation of the sinus membrane and insertion of bone graft and the dental implant at the planned site. No membrane tears were noted. No intraoperative or postoperative adverse events were observed in any of the cases. There were no postprocedural emergency or distress calls.ResultsThe patients' average age was 52 (range 38–72). The mean residual alveolar ridge height was 5.5 mm (range 4.0–7.0). The average bone gain was 11.2 mm (range 9–13) after an average healing period of 8.7 months (range 6.7–13.1). All implants achieved clinical stability and prosthetic rehabilitation was uneventful.ConclusionsA closed sinus floor elevation procedure can be accomplished using a dedicated dental implant that allows for hydraulic elevation of the Schneiderian membrane and placement of a flowable bone replacement graft and dental implant placement all at the same time with minimal patient discomfort.