bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neurophysiological techniques to detect early small‐fiber dysfunction in transthyretin amyloid polyneuropathy
Authors: Conceição Isabel , Costa João , Castro José , de Carvalho Mamede 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACTIntroduction: Transthyretin familial amyloid polyneuropathy (TTR‐FAP) is characterized by early selective involvement of small nerve fibers. Initial clinical diagnosis is complicated by psychosocial factors. We evaluated diagnostic accuracy of sural sensory nerve action potentials, plantar sympathetic skin response (SSR), and cortical laser‐evoked potentials (LEP) to dorsal foot stimulation in the early diagnosis of TTR‐FAP.Methods: Sixty‐three subjects with TTR‐FAP (Val30Met) mutation were split into 2 groups (asymptomatic carriers and early‐symptomatic patients) and compared with 33 healthy controls. Results: The diagnostic accuracy of plantar SSR amplitude and LEP N2 latency was similar; all had very high specificity (94 to 97%) but low sensitivity (22 to 32%) in distinguishing controls from carriers and early‐symptomatic patients. No control had abnormal results on both tests. Conclusions: Plantar SSR and LEPs have similar diagnostic performance in detecting small‐fiber dysfunction in early TTR‐FAP; we propose that both tests should be used to investigate this population. Muscle Nerve 49: 181–186, 2014
THE 6‐minute walk test and other endpoints in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: Longitudinal natural history observations over 48 weeks from a multicenter study
Authors: Mcdonald Craig M. , Henricson Erik K. , Abresch R. Ted , Florence Julaine M. , Eagle Michelle , Gappmaier Eduard , Glanzman Allan M. ,   PTC124‐GD‐007‐DMD Study Group, Spiegel Robert , Barth Jay , Elfring Gary , Reha Allen , Peltz Stuart 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACTIntroduction: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) subjects ≥5 years with nonsense mutations were followed for 48 weeks in a multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of ataluren. Placebo arm data (N = 57) provided insight into the natural history of the 6‐minute walk test (6MWT) and other endpoints. Methods: Evaluations performed every 6 weeks included the 6‐minute walk distance (6MWD), timed function tests (TFTs), and quantitative strength using hand‐held myometry. Results: Baseline age (≥7 years), 6MWD, and selected TFT performance are strong predictors of decline in ambulation (Δ6MWD) and time to 10% worsening in 6MWD. A baseline 6MWD of <350 meters was associated with greater functional decline, and loss of ambulation was only seen in those with baseline 6MWD <325 meters. Only 1 of 42 (2.3%) subjects able to stand from supine lost ambulation. Conclusion: Findings confirm the clinical meaningfulness of the 6MWD as the most accepted primary clinical endpoint in ambulatory DMD trials. Muscle Nerve 48: 343–356, 2013
Electrodeposition of ternary CuxSnySz thin films for photovoltaic applications
Authors: Di Benedetto Francesco , Bencistà Ilaria , Caporali Stefano , Cinotti Serena , De Luca Antonio , Lavacchi Alessandro , Vizza Francesco , Muniz Miranda Maurizio , Foresti Maria Luisa , Innocenti Massimo 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACTWe exploited alternated electrodeposition of Cu, Sn and S to obtain CuxSnySz thin films. These materials are kesterite‐type chalcogenides that have attracted a relevant interest from worldwide researchers as low cost and high conversion efficiency solar cell devices. Films were grown on silver substrate, controlling the growth of the electrodeposited structures at the nanometric level. The obtained films were characterized by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, voltammetric stripping and atomic force microscopy. Experimental bandgap energies resulted linearly modulated by changes of chemical composition and thickness. On the basis of these results, we candidate electrodeposition as a room temperature method to obtain thin films for solar cell technology with low energy investment and negligible environmental impact. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiple‐flow exhaled nitric oxide, allergy, and asthma in a population of older children
Authors: Linn William S. , Rappaport Edward B. , Eckel Sandrah P. , Berhane Kiros T. , Zhang Yue , Salam Muhammad T. , Bastain Tracy M. , Gilliland Frank D. 
Published: May 2013

Abstract“Extended” (multiple‐flow) measurements of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) potentially can distinguish proximal and distal airway inflammation, but have not been evaluated previously in large populations. We performed extended NO testing within a longitudinal study of a school‐based population, to relate bronchial flux (J'awNO) and peripheral NO concentration (CalvNO) estimates with respiratory health status determined from questionnaires. We measured FeNO at 30, 50, 100, and 300 ml/sec in 1,640 subjects aged 12–15 from eight communities, then estimated J'awNO and CalvNO from linear and nonlinear regressions of NO output versus flow. J'awNO, as well as FeNO at all flows, showed influences of asthma, allergy, Asian or African ancestry, age, and height (positive), and of weight (negative), generally corroborating past findings. By contrast, CalvNO results were inconsistent across different extended NO regression models, and appeared more sensitive to small measurement artifacts. Conclusions: Extended NO testing is feasible in field surveys of young populations. In interpreting results, size, age, and ethnicity require attention, as well as instrumental and environmental artifacts. J'awNO and conventional FeNO provide similar information, probably reflecting proximal airway inflammation. CalvNO may give additional information relevant to peripheral airway, alveolar, or systemic pathology. However, it needs additional research, including testing of populations with independently verifiable peripheral or systemic pathology, to optimize measurement technique and interpretation. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:885–896. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dynamic modeling as a multidiscipline collaborative journey
Authors: Bradley Morrison J. , Rudolph Jenny W. , Carroll John S. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractMotivated by a medical diagnosis problem that generates a wide range of problem‐solving behaviors, three social scientists with different domains of expertise and different perspectives collaborated using a system dynamics modeling approach to do theory building in the social sciences. The collaboration led to a model of dynamic problem solving grounded in a unique dataset of 39 anesthesia residents confronting a simulated patient with a breathing problem, drawing upon and linking together theories of sensemaking and decision making. In this paper, we describe the collaborative journey, show glimpses of several models that we produced along the way, and reflect on some lessons that we learned about linking models, theory and data, about model‐based collaboration, and about communication. Copyright © 2013 System Dynamics Society
Very Small Embryonic-Like Stem Cells from the Murine Bone Marrow Differentiate into Epithelial Cells of the Lung
Authors: Kassmer Susannah H. , Jin Huiyan , Zhang Ping-Xia , Bruscia Emanuela M. , Heydari Kartoosh , Lee Joo-Hyeon , Kim Carla F. , Krause Diane S. 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
The view that adult stem cells are lineage restricted has been challenged by numerous reports of bone marrow (BM)-derived cells giving rise to epithelial cells. Previously, we demonstrated that nonhematopoietic BM cells are the primary source of BM-derived lung epithelial cells. Here, we tested the hypothesis that very small embryonic like cells (VSELs) are responsible for this engraftment. We directly compared the level of BM-derived epithelial cells after transplantation of VSELs, hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells, or other nonhematopoietic cells. VSELs clearly had the highest rate of forming epithelial cells in the lung. By transplanting VSELs from donor mice expressing H2B-GFP under a type 2 pneumocyte-specific promoter, we demonstrate that this engraftment occurs by differentiation and not fusion. This is the first report of VSELs differentiating into an endodermal lineage in vivo, thereby potentially crossing germ layer lineages. Our data suggest that Oct4+ VSELs in the adult BM exhibit broad differentiation potential. STEM Cells 2013;31:2759–2766
Three‐dimensional fetal echocardiography for prediction of postnatal surgical approach in double outlet right ventricle: a pilot study
Authors: Zidere V. , Pushparajah K. , Allan L. D. , Simpson J. M. 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACTObjectivesTo examine the feasibility of reconstructing three‐dimensional (3D) echocardiographic views in fetuses with double outlet right ventricle, which might enhance prognostication with respect to the postnatal surgical approach.MethodsThis was a retrospective blinded observational study. Our database was reviewed from January 2007 to June 2011 to identify fetuses with usual atrial arrangement, concordant atrioventricular connections, double outlet right ventricle and relatively balanced left and right ventricular size. Six fetuses, in which there was an intention to treat, were included.ResultsIn all six cases, we identified important features, including location of the ventricular septal defect and its relation to the atrioventricular valves and great arteries. The postnatal surgical approach was predicted accurately in each case.ConclusionIn this group of fetuses with double outlet right ventricle, detailed evaluation by 3D fetal echocardiography enhanced visualization of the anatomy, leading to accurate prediction of the type of surgical repair. Prospective validation in a large cohort of fetuses is warranted. Copyright © 2013 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Pharmacological treatments prescribed to people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in primary health care
Authors: Murray Macey L. , Hsia Yingfen , Glaser Karen , Simonoff Emily , Murphy Declan G. M. , Asherson Philip J. , Eklund Hanna , Wong Ian C. K. 
Published: May 2013

Abstract

Rationale
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) affect 1 % of children, having significant impact on health and social outcomes. Psychotropic medication use by individuals with ASD in the USA increased over time, and polypharmacy occurred in >50 % of those prescribed. In the UK, no psychotropic drugs are approved in ASDs, and little is known about patterns of pharmacological treatment in the ASD population and associated co-morbidities.

Methods
We used The Health Improvement Network, a nationally representative primary care database, to assess the prevalence of ASD diagnoses, psychotropic drug prescribing and neuropsychiatric co-morbidities of 0–24 year olds between 1992 and 2008.

Results
ASD prevalence increased 65-fold from 0.01 % (1992) to 0.50 % (2008). Psychotropic drugs were prescribed to 29 % (1,619/5,651) of the ASD cohort; the most prescribed drugs were sleep medication (9.7 % of prescribed patients), psychostimulants (7.9 %) and antipsychotics (7.3 %). More patients were given psychostimulants and sleep medications over time from 1.5–6.3 % and 2.2–5.9 % respectively. Thirty-seven per cent of the cohort had ≥1 record of a neuropsychiatric co-morbidity, the most common being developmental difficulties and learning disabilities (12.6 %), behavioural, conduct and personality disorders (11.1 %) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (7.5 %).

Conclusions
British physicians are more conservative in prescribing practice than American colleagues. However, use of psychostimulants and antipsychotics is much higher in those with ASD than in the general population. Polypharmacy was seen in 34 % of prescribed patients in 2008. Additional studies examining use, efficacy, and long-term safety of antipsychotics and psychostimulants in autistic individuals are warranted.
Climate change impacts population dynamics and distribution shift of moose (Alces alces) in Heilongjiang Province of China
Authors: Dou Hongliang , Jiang Guangshun , Stott Philip , Piao Renzhu 
Published: May 2013

AbstractThe earth is experiencing obvious climate warming, which may impact population dynamics and the distribution of moose (Alces alces). In this study, we examined the effects of density dependence, temperature, snow depth, and the vegetation (NDVI) on the population dynamics of moose in Heilongjiang Province of China using historical data. Our results demonstrated that moose distribution had continued to contract from the 1980s to the 1990s; moose densities and late spring temperatures in the 1980s were negatively correlated to the rate of increase of the moose population; low and high snow depths in the 1990s showed positive and negative effects, respectively, on the rate of population increase; and the effect of NDVI in the 1980s was similar to the effect of snow depth. Therefore, we confirmed that moose population dynamics is influenced both by intrinsic density‐dependent and extrinsic habitat factors, especially late spring temperatures. In addition, an increase in late spring temperatures may shift the southern limit of the distribution of the moose northwards, or may isolate the southernmost portion of the moose population because the rate of warming is higher to the north of a present latitudinal constriction in range than it is at the latitude of the southernmost moose.
The role of gut microbiota in the gut-brain axis: current challenges and perspectives
Authors: Chen Xiao , D’Souza Roshan , Hong Seong-Tshool 
Published: May 2013

AbstractBrain and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract are intimately connected to form a bidirectional neurohumoral communication system. The communication between gut and brain, knows as the gut-brain axis, is so well established that the functional status of gut is always related to the condition of brain. The researches on the gut-brain axis were traditionally focused on the psychological status affecting the function of the GI tract. However, recent evidences showed that gut microbiota communicates with the brain via the gut-brain axis to modulate brain development and behavioral phenotypes. These recent findings on the new role of gut microbiota in the gut-brain axis implicate that gut microbiota could associate with brain functions as well as neurological diseases via the gut-brain axis. To elucidate the role of gut microbiota in the gut-brain axis, precise identification of the composition of microbes constituting gut microbiota is an essential step. However, identification of microbes constituting gut microbiota has been the main technological challenge currently due to massive amount of intestinal microbes and the difficulties in culture of gut microbes. Current methods for identification of microbes constituting gut microbiota are dependent on omics analysis methods by using advanced high tech equipment. Here, we review the association of gut microbiota with the gut-brain axis, including the pros and cons of the current high throughput methods for identification of microbes constituting gut microbiota to elucidate the role of gut microbiota in the gut-brain axis.
Computational Identification of Active Enhancers in Model Organisms
Authors: Wang Chengqi , Zhang Michael Q. , Zhang Zhihua 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
As a class of cis-regulatory elements, enhancers were first identified as the genomic regions that are able to markedly increase the transcription of genes nearly 30 years ago. Enhancers can regulate gene expression in a cell-type specific and developmental stage specific manner. Although experimental technologies have been developed to identify enhancers genome-wide, the design principle of the regulatory elements and the way they rewire the transcriptional regulatory network tempo-spatially are far from clear. At present, developing predictive methods for enhancers, particularly for the cell-type specific activity of enhancers, is central to computational biology. In this review, we survey the current computational approaches for active enhancer prediction and discuss future directions.
Radical hysterectomy and vaginectomy with sigmoid vaginoplasty for stage I vaginal carcinoma
Authors: Yin Duo , Wang Ning , Zhang Shulan , Huo Naichen , Xiao Qian , Ling Ouyang , Lu Yanming , Wei Heng 
Published: May 2013

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate the therapeutic value of radical hysterectomy and vaginectomy with sigmoid vaginoplasty among patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stage I vaginal carcinoma.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted of 5 women (age range, 45–55 years) with stage I vaginal carcinoma who underwent surgery at Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China, between January 4, 2009, and December 30, 2011. All participants had lesions in the upper third of the vagina and wished to retain sexual function. Patients underwent radical hysterectomy and vaginectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy, followed by sigmoid vaginoplasty for vaginal reconstruction.ResultsThe mean operative time was 248.0 ± 39.6 minutes and the mean intraoperative blood loss was 335.0 ± 76.6 mL. All patients recovered well after surgery and no delayed complications or recurrence were experienced during a mean follow‐up of 22.8 ± 9.98 months. None of the patients developed vaginal stenosis and all were satisfied with their postoperative sexuality. The mean Female Sexual Function Index was 28.0 ± 1.92.ConclusionRadical hysterectomy and vaginectomy with sigmoid vaginoplasty was a reasonable option for patients with stage I vaginal carcinoma who wished to retain sexual function after surgery.
Rethinking the Prostitution Debates: Transcending Structural Stigma in Systemic Responses to Sex Work
Authors: Bruckert Chris , Hannem Stacey 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
As legal authorities consider the constitutionality of the laws surrounding prostitution in Canada, we have the opportunity to rethink some of the fundamental assumptions that have been made about sex work and the socio-legal responses to it. In this article we draw on the concept of structural stigma to analyze the stigmatic assumptions inherent in the Canadian laws and briefly describe their effect—the civic exclusion of sex workers. We then consider the ways in which these same assumptions of risk and immorality are reproduced in end-demand (partial criminalization), legalized (regulatory) models, and decriminalization. While the decriminalization of sex work is the response that relies on the least stigmatic assumptions, even the celebrated New Zealand model is not absent of moralization and “othering” discourse. Further reflection is required to conceptualize a policy approach that transcends stigmatic assumptions so as to respect the human and civil rights of sex workers.
Trafficking or Pimping? An Analysis of Canada’s Human Trafficking Legislation and its Implications
Authors: Roots Katrin 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
In 2005, Canada implemented its first-ever domestic human trafficking legislation under sections 279.01 through 279.04 of the Criminal Code of Canada. The first conviction under this legislation came about three years after its implementation, with a total of only five convictions having been obtained as of January of 2011. This article examines the legislation and the legislative definition of human trafficking in Canada, arguing that the vagueness of this legislation, the breadth of the legislative definition, and its similarity to other provisions within the Criminal Code make it difficult to distinguish human trafficking from other criminal offences, particularly procurement, or in lay language—pimping, which is governed under section 212 of the Code. Analyzing cases identified as human trafficking by Canadian police and legal authorities, this article demonstrates the problematic effects of Canada’s human trafficking legislation. The article points out the challenges arising from identifying non-trafficking cases as human trafficking, including undermining the severity of human trafficking and impeding efforts to combat it.
Ophthalmosaurian (Ichthyosauria) records from the Aalenian–Bajocian of Patagonia (Argentina): an overview
Authors: FERNÁNDEZ MARTA S. , TALEVI MARIANELLA 
Published: May 2013

AbstractThe oldest ophthalmosaurian records worldwide have been recovered from the Aalenian–Bajocian boundary of the Neuquén Basin in Central-West Argentina (Mendoza and Neuquén provinces). Although scarce, they document a poorly known period in the evolutionary history of parvipelvian ichthyosaurs. In this contribution we present updated information on these fossils, including a phylogenetic analysis, and a redescription of ‘Stenopterygius grandis’ Cabrera, 1939. Patagonian ichthyosaur occurrences indicate that during the Bajocian the Neuquén Basin palaeogulf, on the southern margins of the Palaeopacific Ocean, was inhabited by at least three morphologically discrete taxa: the slenderStenopterygius cayi, robust ophthalmosaurianMollesaurus periallusand another indeterminate ichthyosaurian. Rib bone tissue structure indicates that rib cages of Bajocian ichthyosaurs included forms with dense rib microstructure (Mollesaurus) and forms with an ‘osteoporotic-like’ pattern (Stenopterygius cayi).
First occurrence of a phacopid trilobite faunule from the Upper Devonian of Saoura Valley, Algeria and biodiversity fluctuations
Authors: CRÔNIER CATHERINE , MALTI FATIMA ZOHARA , FRANÇOIS ANGELA , BENYOUCEF MADANI , BRICE DENISE 
Published: May 2013

AbstractPhacopid trilobites are relatively widespread in Devonian deposits of north Gondwana and some have been collected from several sections of the Saoura Valley in SW Algeria. New occurrences of phacopids assigned to Trimerocephalus, Dianops and Phacops sensu lato are described from this area and comparisons are made with closely allied species from Morocco and Europe. The trilobite assemblages of the ‘Argiles de Marhouma’ Formation are considered to be Frasnian–Famennian in age. These new occurrences have been integrated into an analysis of Upper Devonian phacopid biodiversity. Diversity fluctuations reflect environmental changes, bioevents and stratigraphic turnovers throughout the Upper Devonian. Peak diversity was attained after the post-Kellwasser event.
NGOs, elite capture and community-driven development: perspectives in rural Mozambique
Authors: Arnall Alex , Thomas David S.G. , Twyman Chasca , Liverman Diana 
Published: May 2013

ABSTRACTThis article examines the problems of elite capture in community-driven development (CDD). Drawing on two case studies of non-governmental organisation (NGO) intervention in rural Mozambique, the authors consider two important variables – (1) the diverse and complex contributions of local elites to CDD in different locations and (2) the roles that non-elites play in monitoring and controlling leader activities – to argue that donors should be cautious about automatically assuming the prevalence of malevolent patrimonialism and its ill-effects in their projects. This is because the ‘checks and balances’ on elite behaviour that exist within locally defined and historically rooted forms of community-based governance are likely to be more effective than those introduced by the external intervener.