bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Metformin compared with hypocaloric diet on serum C‐reactive protein level and insulin resistance in obese and overweight women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Esfahanian Fatemeh , Zamani Mohammad Mahdi , Heshmat Ramin , Moini nia Fatemeh 
Published: December 2012

AbstractAimThe aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of Metformin compared with a hypocaloric diet on C‐reactive protein (CRP) level and markers of insulin resistance in obese and overweight women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).Material and MethodsForty women with body mass index ≥ 27 and PCOS were randomly allocated to receive either Metformin or hypocaloric diet and were assessed before and after a treatment period of 12 weeks. High‐sensitivity CRP (hs‐CRP) and markers of insulin resistance (IR), homeostasis model assessment‐IR, quantitative insulin‐sensitivity check index and fasting glucose to insulin ratio were evaluated in each patient.ResultsA total of 10 subjects did not complete the trial (three patients in the Metformin group and seven patients in the diet group) and a total of 30 subjects completed the trial (17 subjects in the Metformin group and 13 subjects in the diet group). Serum concentration of hs‐CRP significantly decreased in both the Metformin (5.29 ± 2.50 vs 3.81 ± 1.99, P = 0.008) and diet groups (6.08 ± 2.14 vs 4.27 ± 1.60, P = 0.004). There were no significant differences in mean hs‐CRP decrement between the two groups. Decrease in hs‐CRP levels was significantly correlated with waist circumference in the diet group (r = 0.8, P < 0.001). The effect of a hypocaloric diet with 5–10% weight reduction on markers of insulin resistance (homeostasis model assessment‐IR, fasting glucose to insulin ratio, quantitative insulin‐sensitivity check index) was better than Metformin therapy (P = 0.001).ConclusionsAlthough weight reduction has equal efficacy with Metformin in decreasing serum hs‐CRP levels, it was significantly more effective in improving insulin resistance in obese and overweight PCOS women.
Successful pregnancy outcome in a woman with untreated ectopia vesicae: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Mandal Apurba , Chaudhuri Snehamay , Manna Satyendu Sekhar , Jana Swapan Kumar , Biswas Titol , Das Souvik 
Published: December 2012

AbstractWe report the case of a pregnancy in a 25‐year‐old woman who was born with ectopia vesicae and split pelvis, but had not undergone any reconstructive or diversion surgery in childhood. Her antenatal period was uneventful and the infant was delivered by cesarean section at term due to breech presentation. The baby had no congenital anomalies. The postoperative period was uneventful and they were discharged from the hospital in a good general condition.
Grave outcome of granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor‐producing endometrial cancer: A case report and literature review
Authors: Yamamoto Kasumi , Mabuchi Seiji , Yamasaki Masato , Yoshimura Michiko , Murata Yuji 
Published: December 2012

AbstractGranulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF)‐producing nonhematopoietic malignancies have been reported in various organs, and most of them have been associated with poor clinical outcome. However, because of the rarity of reported cases, information regarding G‐CSF‐producing gynecological malignancies, especially uterine corpus cancer, is limited. We report a case of G‐CSF‐producing endometrial cancer, which exhibited a grave clinical outcome. Our case strongly indicates the aggressive nature of G‐CSF‐producing endometrial cancer.
Loop electrosurgical excision procedure as a life event that impacts on postmenopausal women
Authors: Giannella Luca , Mfuta Kabala , Lamantea Ruggiero , Boselli Fausto , Torrini Barbara , Prandi Sonia 
Published: December 2012

AbstractAimThe aim of this study was to compare the psychological impact of loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) in pre‐ and postmenopausal women.Material and MethodsThis was an observational comparative study including 231 pre‐ and 108 post‐menopausal women undergoing LEEP who were subjected to an interview inquiring specific psychological domains concerning the impact of this surgical procedure. The associations between women's answers and their hormonal status were tested by logistic regression analysis.ResultsMultivariate analysis showed that after LEEP, postmenopausal women were associated with answers that indicated significant psychological changes concerning the impact of cervix disease (Odds Ratio [OR] = 2.38, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.22–4.66), their body image (OR = 6.80, 95% CI 2.30–20.08), interpersonal relationship with their partner (OR = 8.32, 95% CI 1.77–38.99) and sexual health quality (OR = 2.25, 95% CI 1.15–4.39).ConclusionLimited to our sample, the psychological impact of LEEP seems to be greater in postmenopausal than in premenopausal women. We speculate that LEEP could cause failure of psychological domains already weakened by menopause.
A Bayesian Approach to Complex Clinical Diagnoses: A Case-Study in Child Abuse
Authors: Best Nicky , Ashby Deborah , Dunstan Frank , Foreman David , McIntosh Neil 
Published: December 2012

SummaryClinical diagnosis is often a complex task of decision making in the face of uncertainty. Diagnosis of child abuse is a particular example where misdiagnosis in either direction is very serious. We have developed a formal Bayesian methodology to quantify the intrinsic uncertainty in complex clinical diagnostic problems. The motivating case-study was the diagnosis of abuse in an infant presenting with an acute life threatening event and oronasal haemorrhage (nosebleed). Since no direct evidence was available on the probability of abuse given an acute life threatening event and nosebleed, we used Bayes theorem to formulate the diagnosis in terms of prior and inverse conditional probabilities and adapted systematic review methodology and Bayesian evidence synthesis to estimate these and to propagate the associated uncertainty. The estimated probability of abuse was far more uncertain than might be supposed from either expert advice or an informal reading of the literature, and estimates depended crucially on assumptions that were made about the conditional independence of multiple signs of abuse. This highlights the importance of having a formal statistical methodology such as this to assist clinicians in reaching a diagnosis. The process that we worked through is likely to have wider application to other problems of complex clinical diagnosis.
Analysing Interviewer Call Record Data by using a Multilevel Discrete Time Event History Modelling Approach
Authors: Durrant Gabriele B. , D’Arrigo Julia , Steele Fiona 
Published: December 2012

SummaryIn recent years, survey agencies have started to collect detailed call record data, including information on the timing and outcome of each interviewer call to a household. In interview-based household surveys, such information may be used to inform effective interviewer calling behaviours, which are critical in achieving co-operation and reducing the likelihood of refusal. However, call record data can be complex and it is not always clear how best to model such data. We present a general framework for the analysis of call record data by using multilevel event history modelling. A multilevel multinomial logistic regression approach is proposed in which the different possible outcomes at each call are modelled jointly, accounting for the clustering of calls within households and interviewers. Of particular interest are the influences of time varying characteristics on the outcome of a call. The analysis of interviewer call record data is illustrated by using paradata from several face-to-face household surveys with the aim of modelling non-response.
Summary of the recommendations of the EFNS/MDS‐ES review on therapeutic management of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Ferreira J. J. , Katzenschlager R. , Bloem B. R. , Bonuccelli U. , Burn D. , Deuschl G. , Dietrichs E. , Fabbrini G. , Friedman A. , Kanovsky P. , Kostic V. , Nieuwboer A. , Odin P. , Poewe W. , Rascol O. , Sampaio C. , Schüpbach M. , Tolosa E. , Trenkwalder C. , Schapira A. , Berardelli A. , Oertel W. H. 
Published: December 2012

ObjectiveTo summarize the 2010 EFNS/MDS‐ES evidence‐based treatment recommendations for the management of Parkinson's disease (PD). This summary includes the treatment recommendations for early and late PD.MethodsFor the 2010 publication, a literature search was undertaken for articles published up to September 2009. For this summary, an additional literature search was undertaken up to December 2010. Classification of scientific evidence and the rating of recommendations were made according to the EFNS guidance. In cases where there was insufficient scientific evidence, a consensus statement (‘good practice point’) is made.Results and ConclusionsFor each clinical indication, a list of therapeutic interventions is provided, including classification of evidence.
Simulation of Changes in Myocardial Tissue Properties During Left Ventricular Assistance With a Rotary Blood Pump
Authors: Martina Jerson R. , Bovendeerd Peter H.M. , de Jonge Nicolaas , de Mol Bas A.J.M. , Lahpor Jaap R. , Rutten Marcel C.M. 
Published: December 2012

AbstractWe considered a mathematical model to investigate changes in geometric and hemodynamic indices of left ventricular function in response to changes in myofiber contractility and myocardial tissue stiffness during rotary blood pump support. Left ventricular assistance with a rotary blood pump was simulated based on a previously published biventricular model of the assisted heart and circulation. The ventricles in this model were based on the one‐fiber model that relates ventricular function to myofiber contractility and myocardial tissue stiffness. The simulations showed that indices of ventricular geometry, left ventricular shortening fraction, and ejection fraction had the same response to variations in myofiber contractility and myocardial tissue stiffness. Hemodynamic measures showed an inverse relation compared with geometric measures. Particularly, pulse pressure and arterial dP/dtmax increased when myofiber contractility increased, whereas increasing myocardial tissue stiffness decreased these measures. Similarly, the lowest pump speed at which the aortic valve remained closed increased when myofiber contractility increased and decreased when myocardial tissue stiffness increased. Therefore, simultaneous monitoring of hemodynamic parameters and ventricular geometry indirectly reflects the status of the myocardial tissue. The appropriateness of this strategy will be evaluated in the future, based on in vivo studies.
Axonal regulation of Schwann cell ensheathment and myelination
Authors: Salzer James L. 
Published: December 2012

AbstractAxons in the vertebrate peripheral nervous system are intimately associated with Schwann cells. Axons regulate the Schwann cell phenotype, determining whether they myelinate individual axons or ensheathe multiple, small axons in Remak bundles. Our current understanding of the axonal signals that drive Schwann cells towards these distinct morphological and phenotypic fates is briefly reviewed here. Elucidation of these signals, and the intracellular pathways they regulate, may lead to new, rational therapies for the treatment of inherited and acquired neuropathies.
Lessons from Jack Griffin and the “pathogenesis of peripheral nerve disease”
Authors: Trapp Bruce D. 
Published: December 2012

AbstractThis contribution reviews aspects of the 10 years I spent with Dr. Jack Griffin in the Department of Neurology at Johns Hopkins University. It highlights how Jack influenced my research career and changed my focus from a myelin centric basic science researcher to one that had an appreciation of the interdependence of axon and myelin forming cells as it related to the pathogenesis of human demyelinating diseases.
Skin biopsy in painful and immune‐mediated neuropathies
Authors: Lauria Giuseppe , Lombardi Raffaella 
Published: December 2012

AbstractStarting from the original studies of the 19th century, this review covers some of the advances achieved over the last 15 years since skin biopsy has become a diagnostic tool for neurologists. In a relatively short period of time, focused works demonstrated the correlation between the loss of intraepidermal nerve fibers (IENF) and symptoms and signs of small fiber neuropathy (SFN), and provided standardized protocols for nerve morphometry as well as normative reference values to be used in clinical practice. This contributed to the definition of the diagnostic criteria for SFN that is now recognized as a distinct nosologic entity. The relationship between IENF degeneration and neuropathic pain led to the recent discovery that SFN can be caused by mutations in sodium channels, providing evidence for a new diagnostic approach to the etiology of the disease in patients. The presence of myelinated nerve fibers in the dermis prompted studies focused on demyelinating neuropathies of genetic and immune‐mediated origin. Specific changes in dermal myelinated nerves have been described suggesting a potential role for skin biopsy also in these fields. Finally, studies on the sequence of events occurring after nerve degeneration in experimental models and patients with chronic neuropathies allowed to understand better the ability of skin nerves to regenerate and the reasons for its failure, providing important hints for the use of skin biopsy as an outcome measure in clinical practice and neuroprotective trials.
Axonal transport disruption in peripheral nerve disease
Authors: Lloyd Thomas E. 
Published: December 2012

AbstractMany neurodegenerative diseases and neuropathies have been proposed to be caused by a disruption of axonal transport. However, the mechanisms whereby impaired transport causes disease remain unclear. Proposed mechanisms include impairment in delivery of organelles such as mitochondria, defective retrograde neurotrophic signaling, and disruption of the synaptic vesicle cycle within the synaptic terminal. Simple model organisms such as the fruitfly, Drosophila melanogaster, allow live imaging of axonal transport to be combined with high‐throughput genetic screens and are providing insights into the pathophysiology of peripheral nerve diseases.
Lessons from the Snowy Slope: Vision and Politics in American Social Insurance
Authors: McGovern Kate 
Published: December 2012

AbstractThe enactment of social insurance, a fundamental departure from means‐tested welfare programs, was born out of the crisis of the Great Depression. Policy options to strengthen Social Security are mathematically simple, but ideologically contentious. Arguments against the program, remarkably consistent since its inception, have been gaining traction in the current political climate. As the debate proceeds, it is useful to examine the history of opposition and review the case for universal social insurance.
The Development of Second Language Writing Complexity in Groups and Individuals: A Longitudinal Learner Corpus Study
Authors: VYATKINA NINA 
Published: December 2012

ABSTRACTThis study explores the development of multiple dimensions of linguistic complexity in the writing of beginning learners of German both as a group and as individuals. The data come from an annotated, longitudinal learner corpus. The development of lexicogrammatical complexity is explored at 2 intersections: (a) between cross‐sectional trendlines and the individual development paths of 2 focal learners and (b) between different complexity variables. The study contributes to the empirical body of linguistic complexity research by close tracking of beginning learners over 4 semesters of collegiate study of German as a second language (L2). For this purpose, data for multiple variables were collected at dense time intervals using multiple waves, and correlation analysis between various datasets was performed. The results confirm some general developmental trends established in previous research. However, the study also found significant variability between individual and cross‐sectional data. Furthermore, differences found for more specific complexity measures between this study's results and previous research are explained in terms of differences in instructional approaches. In addition, the study contributes to the discussion of methods and metrics appropriate for tracking the development of complexity in foreign language writing. The study concludes with implications for L2 pedagogy and further research, including applications of computational methods.
Molecular mechanism(s) of endocrine‐disrupting chemicals and their potent oestrogenicity in diverse cells and tissues that express oestrogen receptors
Authors: Lee Hye‐Rim , Jeung Eui‐Bae , Cho Myung‐Haing , Kim Tae‐Hee , Leung Peter C. K. , Choi Kyung‐Chul 
Published: December 2012

AbstractEndocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are natural or synthetic compounds present in the environment which can interfere with hormone synthesis and normal physiological functions of male and female reproductive organs. Most EDCs tend to bind to steroid hormone receptors including the oestrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and androgen receptor (AR). As EDCs disrupt the actions of endogenous hormones, they may induce abnormal reproduction, stimulation of cancer growth, dysfunction of neuronal and immune system. Although EDCs represent a significant public health concern, there are no standard methods to determine effect of EDCs on human beings. The mechanisms underlying adverse actions of EDC exposure are not clearly understood. In this review, we highlighted the toxicology of EDCs and its effect on human health, including reproductive development in males and females as shown in in vitro and in vivo models. In addition, this review brings attention to the toxicity of EDCs via interaction of genomic and non‐genomic signalling pathways through hormone receptors.
Multidisciplinary evaluation of a critical care enteral feeding algorithm
Authors: REEVES Anneli , WHITE Hayden , SOSNOWSKI Kellie , LEVERITT Michael , DESBROW Ben , JONES Mark 
Published: December 2012

AbstractAim:  Feeding algorithms have been demonstrated to improve nutrition delivery and influence primary outcomes in critical care units. Most feeding algorithms assist decision‐making related to initiation of enteral nutrition, use of prokinetics and the mode of delivery of feeding. The algorithm that is the subject of this evaluation enabled nursing staff to select type of feed and target feeding rate for enterally fed patients. The aims of this evaluation were to assess acceptance of the algorithm across disciplines, and to determine if energy and protein intakes achieved were comparable with data reported in an international multi‐centre observational study.Methods:  Semistructured interviews were conducted with eight nurses, three doctors and three dietitians, to gauge their attitudes towards usefulness of the algorithm. Data on energy and protein intakes was collected for 108 patients using nursing observation records of volume of feed delivered with deductions for discarded aspirates.Results:  Positive feedback on usability of the algorithm was given by all interview participants. Common themes from the interviews were that the algorithm ‘enabled feeding to start earlier’, ‘was simple to use’ and ‘ensured consistency of approach’. Greater than 80% of estimated nutritional targets were achieved, and enteral feeding commenced on average within 8 hours.Conclusions:  Evaluation of the new feeding algorithm indicated that it was well accepted by users, ensured a consistent approach to enteral feeding delivery and enabled feeding to start earlier within an intensive care unit.
Effect of Enzymatic Protein Deamidation on Protein Solubility and Flavor Binding Properties of Soymilk
Authors: Suppavorasatit Inthawoot , Lee Soo‐Yeun , Cadwallader Keith R. 
Published: December 2012

Abstract:  The effect of enzymatic deamidation by protein‐glutaminase (PG) on protein solubility and flavor binding potential of soymilk was studied. Treatment of soymilk with PG for 2 h (temperature of 44 °C and enzyme:substrate ratio (E/S) of 40 U/g protein) resulted in high degree of protein deamidation (66.4% DD) and relatively low degree of protein hydrolysis (4.25% DH). Deamidated (DSM) and control soymilks (CSM) did not differ with respect to aroma, but differed in taste characteristics by sensory evaluation. Protein solubility in DSM was enhanced at weakly acidic conditions (pH 5.0), but did not differ from non‐deamidated soymilk at pH values of 3.0 and 7.0. Odor detection thresholds for the flavor compounds vanillin and maltol were approximately 5 and 3 fold lower, respectively, in DSM than in CSM. Dose‐response curves (Fechner's law plots and n exponents from Stevens's power law) further demonstrated that DSM had a lower flavor binding potential than CSM. PG deamidation has the potential to reduce flavor binding problems encountered in high protein‐containing foods and beverages.Practical Application:  The findings of this study can help lead to the development of technology to produce protein‐containing foods with improved functional properties, especially protein solubility, and potentially decreased flavor fade problems associated with flavor‐protein interactions, especially with carbonyl containing flavor compounds.
The Use of Gamma Ray Spectrometry as an Aid for Uranium Exploration in Kab Amiri Area, Central Eastern Desert, Egypt
Authors: Aboelkhair Hatem , Gaafar Ibrahim 
Published: December 2012

AbstractHigh‐resolution gamma ray spectrometry was exploited to locate the potential radioactive targets at Kab Amiri granite pluton, Central Eastern Desert, Egypt. The Kab Amiri pluton forms a concentric granitic body of monzogranite to syenogranite composition intruded into mafic‐ultramific rocks. To identify and detect anomalous concentrations of natural radioactive elements in the study area, contour maps of equivalent uranium (eU ppm), equivalent thorium (eTh ppm), potassium (K%) and their geochemical ratios (eU/Th, eTh/K and eU‐eTh/3.5) as well as standard deviation map of uranium were constructed and interpreted. Qualitative and quantitative interpretations of the spectrometric survey data revealed the presence of seven radioactive anomalies in the south of the studied area. These anomalies could be related to the prevailing faulting directions NE and ENE fault trends. The southernmost anomalous zone is related to high episyenitization and uranium concentrations. It exhibits a sharp increase in the eU concentrations reaching 370 ppm resulting in a high eU/eTh ratio reaching 4.5 and characterized by oval shape trending in the NE direction. Constructing the contour map of the (eU‐eTh/3.5) was helpful in defining the trends of uranium migration and enabling the delineation of the limit between the negative contours (leaching) and positive contours (deposition).