bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Common fixed point theorem for a hybrid pair of mappings in Hausdorff fuzzy metric spaces
Authors: Abbas M , Ali Basit , Amini-Harandi A 
Published: December 2012

Abstract
In this paper, we prove a coupled fixed point theorem for a multivalued fuzzy contraction mapping in complete Hausdorff fuzzy metric spaces. As an application of the first theorem, a coupled coincidence and coupled common fixed point theorem has been proved for a hybrid pair of multivalued and single-valued mappings. It is worth mentioning that to find coupled coincidence points, we do not employ the condition of continuity of any mapping involved therein. Also, coupled coincidence points are obtained without exploiting any type of commutativity condition. Our results extend, improve, and unify some well-known results in the literature.

MSC:47H10, 47H04, 47H07.
Real-time numerical forecast of global epidemic spreading: case study of 2009 A/H1N1pdm
Authors: Tizzoni Michele , Bajardi Paolo , Poletto Chiara , Ramasco José J , Balcan Duygu , Gonçalves Bruno , Perra Nicola , Colizza Vittoria , Vespignani Alessandro 
Published: December 2012

Abstract

Background
Mathematical and computational models for infectious diseases are increasingly used to support public-health decisions; however, their reliability is currently under debate. Real-time forecasts of epidemic spread using data-driven models have been hindered by the technical challenges posed by parameter estimation and validation. Data gathered for the 2009 H1N1 influenza crisis represent an unprecedented opportunity to validate real-time model predictions and define the main success criteria for different approaches.

Methods
We used the Global Epidemic and Mobility Model to generate stochastic simulations of epidemic spread worldwide, yielding (among other measures) the incidence and seeding events at a daily resolution for 3,362 subpopulations in 220 countries. Using a Monte Carlo Maximum Likelihood analysis, the model provided an estimate of the seasonal transmission potential during the early phase of the H1N1 pandemic and generated ensemble forecasts for the activity peaks in the northern hemisphere in the fall/winter wave. These results were validated against the real-life surveillance data collected in 48 countries, and their robustness assessed by focusing on 1) the peak timing of the pandemic; 2) the level of spatial resolution allowed by the model; and 3) the clinical attack rate and the effectiveness of the vaccine. In addition, we studied the effect of data incompleteness on the prediction reliability.

Results
Real-time predictions of the peak timing are found to be in good agreement with the empirical data, showing strong robustness to data that may not be accessible in real time (such as pre-exposure immunity and adherence to vaccination campaigns), but that affect the predictions for the attack rates. The timing and spatial unfolding of the pandemic are critically sensitive to the level of mobility data integrated into the model.

Conclusions
Our results show that large-scale models can be used to provide valuable real-time forecasts of influenza spreading, but they require high-performance computing. The quality of the forecast depends on the level of data integration, thus stressing the need for high-quality data in population-based models, and of progressive updates of validated available empirical knowledge to inform these models.
GM-CSF increases LPS-induced production of proinflammatory mediators via upregulation of TLR4 and CD14 in murine microglia
Authors: Parajuli Bijay , Sonobe Yoshifumi , Kawanokuchi Jun , Doi Yukiko , Noda Mariko , Takeuchi Hideyuki , Mizuno Tetsuya , Suzumura Akio 
Published: December 2012

AbstractBackgroundMicroglia are resident macrophage-like cells in the central nervous system (CNS) and cause innate immune responses via the LPS receptors, Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 and CD14, in a variety of neuroinflammatory disorders including bacterial infection, Alzheimer’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) activates microglia and induces inflammatory responses via binding to GM-CSF receptor complex composed of two different subunit GM-CSF receptor α (GM-CSFRα) and common β chain (βc). GM-CSF has been shown to be associated with neuroinflammatory responses in multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s disease. However, the mechanisms how GM-CSF promotes neuroinflammation still remain unclear.MethodsMicroglia were stimulated with 20 ng/ml GM-CSF and the levels of TLR4 and CD14 expression were evaluated by RT-PCR and flowcytometry. LPS binding was analyzed by flowcytometry. GM-CSF receptor complex was analyzed by immunocytechemistry. The levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in culture supernatant of GM-CSF-stimulated microglia and NF-κB nuclear translocation were determined by ELISA. Production of nitric oxide (NO) was measured by the Griess method. The levels of p-ERK1/2, ERK1/2, p-p38 and p38 were assessed by Western blotting. Statistically significant differences between experimental groups were determined by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey test for multiple comparisons.ResultsGM-CSF receptor complex was expressed in microglia. GM-CSF enhanced TLR4 and CD14 expressions in microglia and subsequent LPS-binding to the cell surface. In addition, GM-CSF priming increased LPS-induced NF-κB nuclear translocation and production of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and NO by microglia. GM-CSF upregulated the levels of p-ERK1/2 and p-p38, suggesting that induction of TLR4 and CD14 expression by GM-CSF was mediated through ERK1/2 and p38, respectively.ConclusionsThese results suggest that GM-CSF upregulates TLR4 and CD14 expression in microglia through ERK1/2 and p38, respectively, and thus promotes the LPS receptor-mediated inflammation in the CNS.
Validation of reference genes for quantitative real-time PCR studies in the dentate gyrus after experimental febrile seizures
Authors: Swijsen Ann , Nelissen Katherine , Janssen Daniel , Rigo Jean-Michel , Hoogland Govert 
Published: December 2012

AbstractBackgroundQuantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) is a commonly used technique to quantify gene expression levels. Validated normalization is essential to obtain reliable qPCR data. In that context, normalizing to multiple reference genes has become the most popular method. However, expression of reference genes may vary per tissue type, developmental stage and in response to experimental treatment. It is therefore imperative to determine stable reference genes for a specific sample set and experimental model. The present study was designed to validate potential reference genes in hippocampal tissue from rats that had experienced early-life febrile seizures (FS). To this end, we applied an established model in which FS were evoked by exposing 10-day old rat pups to heated air. One week later, we determined the expression stability of seven frequently used reference genes in the hippocampal dentate gyrus.ResultsGene expression stability of18S rRNA,ActB,GusB,Arbp,Tbp,CycAandRpl13Awas tested using geNorm and Normfinder software. The ranking order of reference genes proposed by geNorm was not identical to that suggested by Normfinder. However, both algorithms indicatedCycA,Rpl13AandTbpas the most stable genes, whereas18S rRNAandActBwere found to be the least stably expressed genes.ConclusionsOur data demonstrate that the geometric averaging of at leastCycA,Rpl13AandTbpallows reliable interpretation of gene expression data in this experimental set-up. The results also show thatActBand18S rRNAare not suited as reference genes in this model.
Genome sequencing and analysis of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi strain CR0063 representing a carrier individual during an outbreak of typhoid fever in Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Baddam Ramani , Kumar Narender , Shaik Sabiha , Suma Tiruvayipati , Ngoi Soo Tein , Thong Kwai-Lin , Ahmed Niyaz 
Published: December 2012

Abstract

Salmonella Typhi is a human restricted pathogen with a significant number of individuals as asymptomatic carriers of the bacterium. Salmonella infection can be effectively controlled if a reliable method for identification of these carriers is developed. In this context, the availability of whole genomes of carrier strains through high- throughput sequencing and further downstream analysis by comparative genomics approaches is very promising. Herein we describe the genome sequence of a Salmonella Typhi isolate representing an asymptomatic carrier individual during a prolonged outbreak of typhoid fever in Kelantan, Malaysia. Putative genomic coordinates relevant in pathogenesis and persistence of this carrier strain are identified and discussed.
Suboptimal cardiovascular risk factor identification and management in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a cohort analysis
Authors: Desai Shailey S , Myles James D , Kaplan Mariana J 
Published: December 2012

Abstract

Introduction

Accelerated cardiovascular (CV) disease significantly contributes to increased mortality in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, with a risk comparable to the one observed in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Part of this enhanced risk in RA is attributed to traditional cardiovascular risk factors (CRFs). The aims of this study were to determine how often traditional CRFs are identified and managed by (a) rheumatologists, compared with primary care physicians (PCPs) in RA patients; and (b) PCPs among patients with RA, DM, and the general population (GP).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study compared age/gender/ethnicity-matched patients from three groups: RA, DM, and GP (without RA or DM); n = 251 patients per group. Electronic patient records were reviewed during a continuous 12-month period between June 2007 and April 2011 to assess whether CRFs were identified and managed.

Results

In RA patients, PCPs managed obesity, BP, and lipids significantly more often than did rheumatologists. PCPs managed obesity, BP, and lipids significantly more often in diabetic patients than in the other two groups, and more often in the GP than in RA patients. In patients with elevated BMI, PCPs managed weight in 68% of the DM group, 46% of the GP, and 31% of the RA group (P < 0.0001 for all groups; P = 0.006 between RA and GP groups).

Conclusions

Rheumatologists identify and manage CRFs less frequently than PCPs. PCPs manage CRFs less frequently in RA patients, compared to the GP and DM. Given the increased CV risk associated with RA, physicians need to more aggressively manage CRFs in these patients.
Structural brain changes associated with tardive dyskinesia in schizophrenia
Authors: Sarró Salvador , Pomarol-Clotet Edith , Canales-Rodríguez Erick J. , Salvador Raymond , Gomar Jesús J. , Ortiz-Gil Jordi , Landín-Romero Ramón , Vila-Rodríguez Fidel , Blanch Josep , McKenna Peter J. 
Published: December 2012

BackgroundThe pathological basis of tardive dyskinesia is unknown. Although its clinical features implicate the basal ganglia, imaging studies have not found clear evidence that it is associated with volume changes in these or other brain structures.AimsTo determine, using voxel-based structural imaging, whether there are regions of grey matter volume change in people with schizophrenia who also have tardive dyskinesia compared with those without tardive dyskinesia.MethodA total of 81 people with chronic schizophrenia, 32 with tardive dyskinesia and 49 without, were examined using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and whole-brain, optimised voxel-based morphometry. A comparison group of 61 healthy controls was also examined.ResultsCompared with those without tardive dyskinesia, patients with tardive dyskinesia showed a pattern of volume reductions in predominantly subcortical regions, including the basal ganglia and the thalamus. Within the basal ganglia, volume reductions were seen in the caudate nucleus, to a lesser extent in the putamen, and only marginally in the globus pallidus. The patients with tardive dyskinesia, but not those without, showed significant volume reductions in the basal ganglia compared with the healthy controls but both groups had smaller volumes than controls in other affected areas.ConclusionsThe pathological process or processes that underlie the development of tardive dyskinesia are not just neurochemical in nature, but affect brain structure.
Anorexigenic postprandial responses of PYY and GLP1 to slow ice cream consumption: preservation in obese adolescents, but not in obese adults
Authors: Rigamonti A E , Agosti F , Compri E , Giunta M , Marazzi N , Muller E E , Cella S G , Sartorio A 
Published: December 2012

ObjectiveEating slowly increases the postprandial responses of some anorexigenic gut hormones in healthy lean subjects. As the rate of food intake is positively associated with obesity, the aim of the study was to determine whether eating the same meal at different rates evokes different postprandial anorexigenic responses in obese adolescent and adult subjects.Design and methodsEighteen obese adolescents and adults were enrolled. A test meal was consumed on two different sessions by each subject, meal duration taking either 5 min (fast feeding) or 30 min (slow feeding). Circulating levels of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1), peptide YY (PYY), glucose, insulin, and triglycerides were measured over 210 min. Visual analog scales were used to evaluate the subjective feelings of hunger and satiety.ResultsFast feeding did not stimulate GLP1 release in obese adolescent and adults, whereas slow feeding increased circulating levels of GLP1 only in obese adolescents. Plasma PYY concentrations increased both in obese adolescents and in adults, irrespective of the eating rate, but slow feeding was more effective in stimulating PYY release in obese adolescents than in adults. Simultaneously, slow feeding evoked a higher satiety only in obese adolescents compared with fast feeding but not in obese adults. In obese adolescents, slow feeding decreased hunger (only at 210 min). Irrespective of the eating rate, postprandial responses of insulin and triglycerides were higher in obese adults than in obese adolescents. Conclusion: Slow feeding leads to higher concentrations of anorexigenic gut peptides and favors satiety in obese adolescents, but this physiological control of food intake is lost in obese adults.
BMP4 Polymorphism is Associated with Nonsyndromic Oral Cleft in a Brazilian Population
Authors: Antunes Leonardo Santos , Küchler Erika Calvano , Tannure Patricia Nivoloni , Costa Marcelo Castro , Gouvêa Cresus Vinicius Depes , Olej Beni , Granjeiro Jose Mauro 
Published: December 2012

Objective To evaluate the association of the polymorphisms in the TGFB3 gene (rs2268626) and the BMP4 gene (rs17563) with nonsyndromic oral clefts. Design A hospital-based case-control study was conducted with nonsyndromic oral clefts cases and unaffected controls. Cleft type and tooth agenesis data were collected by clinical examination and confirmed through medical records. Risk factors were obtained through a questionnaire. Genotyping of the selected polymorphisms for TGFB3 and BMP4 were carried out by real-time polymerase chain reaction using the Taqman assay method from a genomic DNA isolated from buccal epithelial cells of all individuals. Setting The case group was ascertained through a public reference hospital of oral cleft rehabilitation in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The noncleft group consisted of unrelated subjects, with no history of oral cleft in the family, recruited at the Dental Clinic at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Participants A total of 833 unrelated individuals (450 control individuals and 383 cases with nonsyndromic oral clefts) Results No significant association in relation to genotype or allele distributions for TGFB3 polymorphism was found between oral cleft subgroups and the control group. For BMP4, there were significant differences in the genotype frequencies between the oral cleft and control groups ( P = .0007). Regarding cleft type, there were statistically significant differences between the cleft lip and control groups ( P = .00009). Conclusion Our findings provide preliminary evidence suggesting that the risk of nonsyndromic oral clefts may be influenced by variation in the BMP4 gene.
Intrapregnancy Non‐Surgical Periodontal Treatment and Pregnancy Outcome: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Pirie Martina , Linden Gerard , Irwin Christopher 
Published: December 2012

Background: The purpose of the present study is to investigate the potential link between maternal periodontitis and pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth (<37 weeks) and low birth weight (<2,500 g).Methods: Ninety nine pregnant females with mild/moderate periodontitis were randomly allocated to a control (n = 50) or test (n = 49) group. Test group participants received intrapregnancy non‐surgical periodontal treatment, whereas this was deferred until after delivery for controls. Demographic and baseline clinical data were obtained for all participants at initial assessment pretreatment. Clinical data were rerecorded for test participants at review 8 weeks after treatment. Birth outcomes were completed at delivery by midwives who also collected cord blood samples when possible; the latter were analyzed to determine the presence/levels of cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐8. All data were analyzed on an intention‐to‐treat basis using appropriate statistical tests.Results: Random allocation of participants resulted in well‐balanced control and test groups. All test group participants and all but one control participant gave birth to a live infant. No significant differences were detected between control and test groups with regard to birth outcome measures of birth weight and gestational age or in relation to cytokine prevalence/levels.Conclusion: Intrapregnancy non‐surgical periodontal treatment, completed at 20 to 24 weeks, did not reduce the risk of preterm, low‐birth‐weight delivery in this population.
Seasonal Influenza Morbidity Estimates Obtained From Telephone Surveys, 2007
Authors: Kamimoto Laurie , Euler Gary L. , Lu Peng-Jun , Reingold Arthur , Hadler James , Gershman Ken , Farley Monica , Terebuh Pauline , Ryan Patricia , Lynfield Ruth , Albanese Bernadette , Thomas Ann , Craig Allen S. , Schaffner William , Finelli Lyn , Bresee Joseph , Singleton James A. 
Published: December 2012

Objectives. We assessed telephone surveys as a novel surveillance method, comparing data obtained by telephone with existing national influenza surveillance systems, and evaluated the utility of telephone surveys. Methods. We used the 2007 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) and the 2007 National Immunization Survey–Adult (NIS–Adult) to estimate the incidence of influenza-like illness (ILI), medically attended ILI, provider-diagnosed influenza, influenza testing, and treatment of influenza with antiviral medications during the 2006–2007 influenza season. Results. With the January–May BRFSS, among persons aged 18 years and older, the cumulative incidence of seasonal ILI and provider-diagnosed influenza was 37.9 and 5.7 adults per 100 persons, respectively. Monthly medically attended ILI and provider-diagnosed influenza among adults were temporally associated with influenza activity, as documented by national surveillance. With the NIS–Adult survey data, estimated provider-diagnosed influenza, influenza testing, and antiviral treatment were 2.8%, 1.4%, and 0.6%, respectively. Conclusions. Our telephone interview–based estimates of influenza morbidity were consistent with those from national influenza surveillance systems. Telephone surveys may provide an alternative method by which population-based influenza morbidity information can be gathered.
Trends and Correlates of Child Passenger Restraint Use in 6 Northwest Tribes: The Native Children Always Ride Safe (Native CARS) Project
Authors: Lapidus Jodi A. , Smith Nicole Holdaway , Lutz Tam , Ebel Beth E. ,   for the Native CARS Study Group
Published: December 2012

Objectives. We compared proportions of children properly restrained in vehicles in 6 Northwest American Indian tribes in 2003 and 2009, and evaluated risks for improper restraint. Methods. During spring 2009 we conducted a vehicle observation survey in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho tribal communities. We estimated the proportions of children riding properly restrained and evaluated correlates of improper restraint via log-binomial regression models for clustered data. Results. We observed 1853 children aged 12 years and younger in 1207 vehicles; 49% rode properly restrained. More children aged 8 years and younger rode properly restrained in 2009 than 2003 (51% vs 29%; P < .001). Older booster seat–eligible children were least likely to ride properly restrained in 2009 (25%). American Indian children were more likely to ride improperly restrained than nonnative children in the same communities. Other risk factors included riding with an unrestrained or nonparent driver, riding where child passenger restraint laws were weaker than national guidelines, and taking a short trip. Conclusions. Although proper restraint has increased, it remains low. Tribe-initiated interventions to improve child passenger restraint use are under way.
Mental Health of African Americans and Caribbean Blacks in the United States: Results From the National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions
Authors: Gibbs Tresha A. , Okuda Mayumi , Oquendo Maria A. , Lawson William B. , Wang Shuai , Thomas Yonette Felicity , Blanco Carlos 
Published: December 2012

Objectives. Previous epidemiological studies have found lower mood, anxiety, and substance use disorder prevalence in Black Americans, in general, compared with White Americans. We estimated the prevalence and persistence of psychiatric disorders in African Americans, Caribbean Blacks, and non-Hispanic Whites. Methods. We drew data from wave 1 (2001–2002) of the National Epidemiological Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions, a nationally representative sample of US adults, which included 7529 African Americans, 469 Caribbean Blacks, and 24 502 non-Hispanic Whites. Results. Blacks had equal or lower prevalence than Whites of lifetime (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.6 for African Americans; 0.3 for Caribbean Blacks) and 12-month (AOR = 0.7 for African Americans; 0.4 for Caribbean Blacks) Axis I psychiatric disorders, but higher prevalence of several personality disorders. Among Blacks, Caribbean Blacks had higher prevalence of 12-month psychotic disorders and lower lifetime prevalence of major depressive disorder, alcohol dependence, and drug abuse than African Americans. There were no differences in persistence of disorders between Caribbean Blacks and African Americans. Conclusions. This study yielded new data on prevalence of mental disorders in these groups, which has important implications for clinical work with US Blacks.