bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clinical considerations on Buruli ulcer employing two molecular tests for the detection of Mycobacterium ulcerans in 100 skin biopsies
Authors: Leigheb Giorgio , Zavattaro Elisa , Molicotti Paola , Cannas Sara , Zanetti Stephania , Clemente Claudio , Johnson Roch C. , Sopoh Ghislain E. , Dossou Ange D. , Colombo Enrico 
Published: December 2013

AbstractObjectivesBuruli ulcer (BU) is an infected cutaneous lesion, the etiological agent of which is Mycobacterium ulcerans. Diagnosis is confirmed by the identification of acid‐fast bacilli and culture. In clinically suspicious forms with negative bacteriological or Ziehl–Neelsen (ZN) findings, molecular tests are used. This study compared the concordance of nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (targeting IS2404) and PCR (targeting IS2606) in different clinical situations.MethodsA total of 57 samples were sourced from 39 BU patients. Control samples (n = 43) were obtained from non‐BU ulcers in 38 patients. Samples were divided into two pieces and submitted to, respectively, histological examination and ZN staining, and PCR. Subsamples submitted to PCR were divided and submitted to nested PCR IS2404 and PCR IS2606, respectively.ResultsOf the 57 BU biopsies, positive results were obtained by nested PCR in 18 (31.6%) and by IS2606 PCR in 37 (64.9%) cases. Sequencing of the positive samples confirmed the specificity of amplicons in all nested PCR samples and in 26 of 37 (70.2%) samples positive to IS2606. Hence, nested PCR was more specific (100% vs. 93%) and less sensitive (32% vs. 46%) than IS2606 PCR. In the BU samples, nested PCR was negative in 15 instances, and IS2606 PCR was negative in 11 instances in which ZN histology had been positive (false negatives). Both PCRs were positive in six ZN‐negative smears.ConclusionsWe considered 57 samples from 39 BU patients in various clinical stages and at different times after the beginning of therapy. These provided positive results in 18 cases with IS2404 nested PCR and in 37 cases with PCR IS2606; only 26 of the latter remained positive subsequent to sequencing. Hence, even if IS2404 PCR is considered more specific, in subjects who appear to fail to respond to therapy, it is advisable to also carry out IS2606 PCR. A possible interpretation of the discordance between the two techniques due to unavoidable technical errors as well as to different sensitivity of the two tests at M. ulcerans DNA low concentration (i.e. in recent infection and in well‐treated cases) is discussed.
Association between IL16 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to alopecia areata in the Korean population
Authors: Lew Bark‐Lynn , Chung Joo‐Ho , Sim Woo‐Young 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackgroundAlopecia areata (AA) is a chronic disease that presents as non‐scarring hair loss. It is thought to be an organ‐specific autoimmune disease characterized by T cell infiltrates and cytokine production around anagen‐stage hair follicles. Interleukin‐16 (IL‐16) is a T cell‐specific chemoattractant known to be associated with autoimmune disease.ObjectivesThis study was conducted to determine whether variation in the IL16 gene contributes to risk for AA in the Korean population.MethodsA total of 270 control subjects and 229 AA patients were enrolled. Genomic DNA was prepared from peripheral blood. Four single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs17875486 [promoter], rs17875491 [promoter], rs11073001 [exon], rs1803275 [exon]) of the IL16 gene were selected. Genotypes were determined by direct sequencing. Sequence data were analyzed. Multiple logistic regression models were calculated.ResultsA significant difference emerged between the AA group and the control group for one SNP (rs17875491) of IL16. A further significant difference was found between patients with and without a family history of AA for a second SNP (rs11073001).ConclusionsThe present study found significant differences pertaining to two SNPs of the IL16 gene between, respectively, AA patients and controls (rs17875491) and AA patients with and without a family history of AA (rs11073001). Thus, IL16 polymorphisms may play a role in the pathophysiology of AA or in the expression of AA phenotypes. Further studies are required to elucidate the role of IL‐16 in the pathogenesis and clinical manifestation of AA.
Demographic, clinical, and radiologic signs and treatment responses of lipoid proteinosis patients: a 10‐case series from Şanlıurfa
Authors: Dertlioğlu Selma B. , Çalık Mustafa , Çiçek Demet 
Published: December 2013

AbstractObjectivesLipoid proteinosis (LP) is a rare autosomal recessive genodermatosis characterized by mucocutaneous lesions and hoarseness that develop in early childhood. This paper presents the clinical and radiologic characteristics and treatment responses of 10 LP patients from five different families.MethodsTen LP patients followed in our university clinic in Şanlıurfa, Turkey, were evaluated. Clinical features, as well as histopathologic and radiologic findings, were analyzed. Diagnoses were established based on clinical features, with histopathologic confirmation in nine cases. The patients were started on acitretin at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg/day for six months.ResultsTypical cutaneous signs of LP and hoarseness of the voice were observed in all patients. No side effects associated with the drug were found during treatment. At the end of the sixth month, the cutaneous papules and plaques were diminished in seven patients. Hoarseness receded in seven patients (particularly in three), vesiculobullous lesions were reduced in three patients, and the frequency of oral ulcers decreased in three patients. In a patient with palmoplantar hyperkeratosis, lesions were found to disappear completely.ConclusionsWe believe acitretin is quite effective and reliable in the treatment of cutaneous lesions and hoarseness in patients with LP.
Smoking and inflammation: evidence for a synergistic role in chronic disease
Authors: Johannsen Annsofi , Susin Cristiano , Gustafsson Anders 
Published: December 2013

AbstractTobacco smoking is the most important preventable risk factor for periodontitis; however, the underlying biological mechanisms responsible for the detrimental effects of smoking on periodontal health remain largely unclear. It is also well established that smoking has a negative impact on several inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and inflammatory bowel disease. The aim of this paper was to review smoking‐related changes in local and systemic host responses with a focus on cellular and molecular effects that could explain a hyperinflammatory response leading to periodontal destruction. Biological mechanisms that may be common to periodontal disease and other chronic inflammatory diseases were also explored, together with gene–smoking interactions. An epidemiologic perspective on the burden of smoking on periodontal health and the potential for smoking cessation is also presented. Tobacco smoking seems to induce changes ranging from decreased leukocyte chemotaxis to decreased production of immunoglobulins. Smoking also seems to cause a stronger inflammatory reaction with an increased release of potentially tissue‐destructive substances (e.g. reactive oxygen species, collagenase, serine proteases and proinflammatory cytokines). These findings support a hypothesis that periodontitis is a hyperinflammatory condition rather than a hypo‐inflammatory condition.
Smells like cooperation? Unpleasant body odor and people's perceptions and helping behaviors
Authors: Camps Jeroen , Stouten Jeroen , Tuteleers Chloé , van Son Kirsten 
Published: December 2013

AbstractScents are omnipresent in our daily world and they are of great importance as represented by the use of perfumes or fragrances in the work environment. Even though it has been argued that bad scents invoke negative judgments, we argued and demonstrated that a bad body odor elicits feelings of pity in others (Experiment 1) and increases prosocial behavior (Experiment 2). Further, we showed that only if a person is not held accountable for his own body odor this elevated other's prosocial behavior (Experiment 3). These findings provide a novel perspective on the way human body odor affects our perceptions and consequent behaviors.
Predictors of Postpartum Sexual Activity and Function in a Diverse Population of Women
Authors: Yee Lynn M. , Kaimal Anjali J. , Nakagawa Sanae , Houston Kathryn , Kuppermann Miriam 
Published: December 2013

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to identify predictors of postpartum sexual activity and functioning in a diverse population of women using the Sexual Health Outcomes in Women Questionnaire (SHOW‐Q).MethodsThis was a prospective study of 160 postpartum women assessing relationships between demographic factors, mode of birth, depression, breastfeeding, and sexual activity and function. Questionnaires were administered over the telephone 8 to 10 weeks postpartum and in person 6 to 8 months postpartum. Primary outcomes were sexual activity at 8 to 10 weeks postpartum and global and subscale SHOW‐Q scores at 6 to 8 months postpartum; the primary predictor was mode of birth. Associations were assessed using multiple linear and logistic regression analyses.ResultsSeventy‐five percent of this population (n = 140 at 8‐10 weeks, n = 129 at 6‐8 months) gave birth vaginally, and 60.7% resumed sexual activity by 8 to 10 weeks postpartum. Only multiparity was associated with increased odds of having resumed sexual activity by 8 to 10 weeks postpartum (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.44; P = .03), whereas older age was associated with decreased odds (aOR, 0.92; P = .02) of having resumed sexual activity. Women who were depressed (effect estimate, −13.3; P = .01), older (−1.1, P = .01), or exclusively breastfeeding (−16.5, P < .001) had significantly poorer sexual satisfaction, whereas multiparous women reported better sexual satisfaction (11.1, P = .03). A significant relationship between mode of birth and SHOW‐Q scores did not emerge, although we did observe a trend toward lower SHOW‐Q scores among women who underwent cesarean compared with those giving birth vaginally.DiscussionMultiparity and younger age predict early resumption of sexual activity, whereas depression and breastfeeding are associated with poorer postpartum sexual functioning. The relationship between mode of birth and resumed sexual activity or postpartum sexual function remains uncertain.
Extragonadal sclerosing stromal tumor: A rare case report
Authors: Mokhtari Maral , Akbarzadeh‐Jahromi Mojgan , Sari‐Aslani Fatemeh , Hamedi Bahareh , Bagheri Mandana , Torfehnezhad Parnia 
Published: December 2013

AbstractSclerosing stromal tumor is a rare, benign, sex cord stromal tumor of the ovary. We report a case of extragonadal sclerosing stromal tumor in a 45‐year‐old woman who presented with menstrual irregularity and vague pelvic pain. Imaging studies showed a well‐defined mass between the posterior wall of the bladder and uterus, suspected of being a pedunculated leiomyoma. The histopathological and immunohistochemical study was consistent with sclerosing stromal tumor. No ovarian tissue was found on representative sectioning. This is the first case of sclerosing stromal tumor in an extragonadal location.
Genetic diagnosis and genetic counseling for androgen‐insensitivity syndrome: A report of three cases
Authors: Yamaguchi Masatoshi , Sameshima Hiroshi , Ikenoue Tyuyomu 
Published: December 2013

AbstractAimIn order to verify androgen‐insensitivity syndrome (AIS) for three individuals and their mothers, genetic diagnosis was performed after genetic counseling.MethodsPolymerase chain reaction analysis was used for each exon of the androgen receptor (AR Xq11‐q12) gene. The amplified DNA fragments were detected by gel electrophoresis. The DNA fragments were sequenced and their sequences were compared with those in a database (The Androgen Receptor Gene Mutations Database World Wide Web Server).ResultsA missense mutation was identified in exon 7 in case 1, deletions of exons 1 and 2 were identified in case 2, and a nonsense mutation was identified in the triplet repeat region of exon 1 in case 3. The mothers of the patients were also verified to be carriers of the mutations.ConclusionGenetic diagnosis is a very useful method for diagnosing AIS. However, genetic counseling, including emotional support for the mother, is an essential component of genetic diagnosis.
Resveratrol suppresses inflammatory responses in endometrial stromal cells derived from endometriosis: A possible role of the sirtuin 1 pathway
Authors: Taguchi Ayumi , Wada‐Hiraike Osamu , Kawana Kei , Koga Kaori , Yamashita Aki , Shirane Akira , Urata Yoko , Kozuma Shiro , Osuga Yutaka , Fujii Tomoyuki 
Published: December 2013

AbstractAimEndometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) plays a role in regulation of inflammation. The role of SIRT1 in endometriosis remains unknown. We here addressed the anti‐inflammatory effects of SIRT1 on endometriosis.MethodsThe expression of SIRT1 in human ovarian endometriomas and eutopic endometria were examined using immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR). Endometriotic stromal cells (ESC) obtained from endometriomas were exposed to either resveratrol or sirtinol, an activator or inhibitor of sirtuins, respectively, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α‐induced interleukin (IL)‐8 release from the ESC was assessed at mRNA and protein levels.ResultsBoth immunochemistry and RT–PCR demonstrated that SIRT1 was expressed in ESC and normal endometrial stromal cells. Resveratrol suppressed TNF‐α‐induced IL‐8 release from the ESC in a dose‐dependent manner while sirtinol increased IL‐8 release.ConclusionThese opposing effects of SIRT1‐related agents suggest that IL‐8 release from the ESC is modulated through the SIRT1 pathway. Resveratrol may have the potential to ameliorate local inflammation in endometriomas.
Assessment of sublingual misoprostol as first‐line treatment for primary post‐partum hemorrhage: Results of a multicenter trial
Authors: Okonofua Friday Ebhodaghe , Ogu Rosemary Nkemdilim , Akuse James Terkura , Ujah Innocent Achaya Otobo , Galadanci Hadiza Shehu , Fabamwo Adetokunbo Olusegun 
Published: December 2013

AbstractAimThe study investigated the effectiveness of sublingual misoprostol when used as primary treatment of primary post‐partum hemorrhage (PPH) in a low‐income country.MethodsMaternity care providers in three Nigerian hospitals administrated 800 μm sublingual misoprostol to women experiencing PPH. The outcome variables were estimated blood loss and the need for additional uterotonic drugs after initial treatment with misoprostol. Entry criteria included women in term spontaneous labor, while exclusion criteria were women with operative delivery and those experiencing PPH not due to atonic uterus.ResultsOne hundred and thirty‐one women with PPH were treated over 6 months. Estimated blood loss ranged 500–2500 mL. Twenty women (15.3%) required additional uterotonic drugs to control continuing blood loss. There were no maternal deaths, while seven perinatal deaths were recorded.ConclusionWe conclude that although sublingual misoprostol is effective in reducing blood loss due to PPH, it does not effectively treat all forms of PPH. Additional uterotonics and other ancillary treatments would be required.
Hysteroscopy and suction evacuation of cesarean scar pregnancies: A case report and review
Authors: Fylstra Donald L. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractImplantation of a pregnancy into the scar of a prior cesarean is an uncommon type of ectopic pregnancy. The incidence of cesarean scar pregnancy is thought to be one in 1800–2216 pregnancies. The increase in the incidence of cesarean scar pregnancy is thought to be a consequence of the increasing rates of cesarean delivery. The natural history of cesarean scar pregnancy is unknown. However, if such a pregnancy is allowed to continue, uterine scar rupture with hemorrhage and possible hysterectomy seem likely. Two early diagnosed cesarean scar pregnancies were treated with hysteroscopy and suction curettage removal. One required intramuscular methotrexate to resolve a persistent cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy. It would seem reasonable that simple suction evacuation would frequently leave chorionic villi imbedded within the cesarean scar, as the pregnancy is not within the endometrial cavity.
Are there any differences in psychiatric symptoms and eating attitudes between pregnant women with hyperemesis gravidarum and healthy pregnant women?
Authors: Annagür Bilge Burçak , Kerimoğlu Özlem Seçilmiş , Gündüz Şule , Tazegül Aybike 
Published: December 2013

AbstractAimWe aimed to determine the relationship between eating attitudes and psychiatric symptoms in women with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) and to compare these women with healthy control subjects.MethodsThe study sample included 48 women with HG, and the control group had 44 pregnant women. The patients were selected from women with HG hospitalized in the obstetric inpatient clinic. All of the participants were in the first trimester of pregnancy. The participants' sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were recorded in the obstetric clinic. All of the participants completed a Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Eating Attitudes Test (EAT) and Body Image Scale (BIS).ResultsWomen with HG were more likely to have had a history of HG during their previous pregnancy (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the study and control groups regarding obstetric history. Women with HG were more influenced by food that induced nausea. There was no significant difference between the study and control groups for pre‐pregnancy nausea, food craving and the initial BMI (P > 0.05). Depression and anxiety scores were significantly higher in women with HG (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the study and control groups for body image score and eating attitude test scores (P > 0.05).ConclusionWe suggest that HG appears to be associated with depression and anxiety symptoms rather than deterioration of eating attitudes and body image. However, these results should be confirmed by prospective and clinical studies.
Predictor of mortality in patients with amniotic fluid embolism
Authors: Oi Hidekazu , Naruse Katsuhiko , Koike Natsuki , Tsunemi Taihei , Shigetomi Hiroshi , Kanayama Naohiro , Kobayashi Hiroshi 
Published: December 2013

AbstractAimThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the possibility of establishing predictors of mortality in women with amniotic fluid embolism.MethodsOur previous report identified eight factors associated with amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) fatality: dyspnea, cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, serum sialyl Tn greater than 47 U/mL, serum interleukin‐8 greater than 100 pg/mL, vaginal delivery, multiparity and term delivery. The ratio of the number of positive fatal factors to the number of possible fatal factors in the same case was calculated as the abundance ratio, which was used because information regarding all eight factors was not retrievable for all the patients at the time of registration. The patient group was divided into four quartiles based on this abundance ratio, and the mortality rate in each quartile was compared with the overall mortality rate among the 130 patients with AFE enrolled between 1992 and 2006. The validity of this approach was confirmed in another dataset from a cohort of 38 patients with AFE in 2007.ResultsA statistically significant positive correlation was observed between the abundance ratio and the mortality in each quartile (P < 0.01) for the patients with AFE enrolled between 1992 and 2006. This result was also found in the AFE patients enrolled in 2007 (P < 0.05). Thus, an increased in the abundance ratio of the eight fatal factors resulted in an increased case fatality rate.ConclusionThese data suggested that the abundance ratio of fatal factors may be a useful predictor of mortality and therefore may be expected to improve prognostic accuracy in the future.
Substance Use and Sexual Risk Behaviors Among American Indian and Alaska Native High School Students
Authors: de Ravello Lori , Everett Jones Sherry , Tulloch Scott , Taylor Melanie , Doshi Sonal 
Published: December 2013

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDWe describe the prevalence of behaviors that put American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) high school students at risk for teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and the relationships among race/ethnicity and these behaviors.METHODSWe analyzed merged 2007 and 2009 data from the national Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a biennial, self‐administered, school‐based survey of US students in grades 9‐12 (N = 27,912). Prevalence estimates and logistic regression, controlling for sex and grade, were used to examine the associations between race/ethnicity, and substance use, and sexual risk behaviors.RESULTSOf the 26 variables studied, the adjusted odds ratios (AOR) were higher among AI/AN than White students for 18 variables (ranging from 1.4 to 2.3), higher among AI/AN than Black students for 13 variables (ranging from 1.4 to 4.2), and higher among AI/AN than Hispanic students for 5 variables (ranging from 1.4 to 1.5). Odds were lower among AI/AN than Black students for many of the sexual risk‐related behaviors.CONCLUSIONSThe data suggest it is necessary to develop targeted, adolescent‐specific interventions aimed at reducing behaviors that put AI/AN high school students at risk for teen pregnancy, STI/HIV, and other health conditions.
Health and Academic Achievement: Cumulative Effects of Health Assets on Standardized Test Scores Among Urban Youth in the United States
Authors: Ickovics Jeannette R. , Carroll‐Scott Amy , Peters Susan M. , Schwartz Marlene , Gilstad‐Hayden Kathryn , McCaslin Catherine 
Published: December 2013

ABSTRACTBACKGROUNDThe Institute of Medicine (2012) concluded that we must “strengthen schools as the heart of health.” To intervene for better outcomes in both health and academic achievement, identifying factors that impact children is essential. Study objectives are to (1) document associations between health assets and academic achievement, and (2) examine cumulative effects of these assets on academic achievement.METHODSParticipants include 940 students (grades 5 and 6) from 12 schools randomly selected from an urban district. Data include physical assessments, fitness testing, surveys, and district records. Fourteen health indicators were gathered including physical health (eg, body mass index [BMI]), health behaviors (eg, meeting recommendations for fruit/vegetable consumption), family environment (eg, family meals), and psychological well‐being (eg, sleep quality). Data were collected 3‐6 months prior to standardized testing.RESULTSOn average, students reported 7.1 health assets out of 14. Those with more health assets were more likely to be at goal for standardized tests (reading/writing/mathematics), and students with the most health assets were 2.2 times more likely to achieve goal compared with students with the fewest health assets (both p < .001).CONCLUSIONSSchools that utilize nontraditional instructional strategies to improve student health may also improve academic achievement, closing equity gaps in both health and academic achievement.