bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Association of polymorphisms in the AGT gene(M235T, T174M) with ischemic stroke in the Chinese population
Authors: Gao Tao , Huang Lina , Fu Qizhi , Bai Yongjie 
Published: May 2015

Objective: The angiotensinogen (AGT) gene polymorphisms has been shown to be involved in the development of ischemic stroke. However, the published studies have yielded inconsistent results. We performed a meta-analysis to assess the correlation. Methods: Published literature from PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI and Wanfang Data was searched. The association was assessed by odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Publication bias was also calculated. Results: Eight studies (1636 cases and 1433 controls) on M235T polymorphism and four studies (726 cases and 495 controls) on T174M polymorphism were included in the meta-analysis. The results showed that M235T polymorphism was significantly associated with risk of ischemic stroke risk (TT vs. MM: OR=2.60, 95% CI=1.77–3.83; MT vs. MM: OR=1.37, 95% CI=1.01–1.86; TT+MT vs. MM: OR=0.43, 95% CI=0.35–0.54; MM+MT vs. TT: OR=1.74, 95% CI=1.31–2.32). There was also significant association between T174M polymorphism and ischemic stroke risk (MM vs. TT: OR=3.66, 95% CI=1.89–7.08; TT+MT vs. MM: OR=0.28, 95% CI=0.14–0.54). Further sensitivity analysis confirmed the significant association between AGT gene polymorphisms and risk of ischemic stroke. No evidence indicated publication bias. Conclusions: The meta-analysis indicated the significant association of AGT gene polymorphisms (M235T, T174M) with risk of ischemic stroke in the Chinese population.
Efficacy of a unique straight, conformable, bare platinum coil in the treatment of cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Harada Kei , Kakumoto Kohsuke 
Published: May 2015

In embolization of a cavernous sinus (CS) by transvenous embolization (TVE) for a CS dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF), selection of embolization coils is difficult owing to the complex anatomical structure of the CS. Moreover, overpacking of the CS with embolization coils may cause permanent cranial nerve palsies. The ED coil-10 (EDC-10) infini is an extremely soft platinum coil without shape-memory that has excellent conformability with surrounding structures. The goal of this study was to evaluate use of the EDC-10 infini coil for embolization of a CS DAVF. Six patients with a CS DAVF were treated with TVE. Refluxing cerebral and ophthalmic veins were embolized with shape-memory type coils other than EDC-10 infini, and CSs were embolized with the EDC-10 infini coils. In five cases, CSs were loosely embolized with EDC-10 infini coils. In one case, reflux of the cerebral vein worsened from the CS during the procedure, and embolization of the CS tightly using three-dimensional shape-memory type coils other than EDC-10 infini. Overall, three to 19 (average 7.3) coils were used fozr each CS and the total coil volume was 33–284 (average 95.1) mm3 in each CS. Postoperative transient abducens palsy occurred in two cases, but both patients recovered completely. There was no case of recurrence. The EDC-10 infini coil showed excellent conformability with the complex inner structure of the CS and excellent safety without postoperative permanent cranial nerve palsy.
Prospective study of profile of hepatic osteodystrophy in patients with non‐choleastatic liver cirrhosis and impact of bisphosphonate supplementation
Authors: Bansal Rinkesh Kumar , Kumar Mandhir , Sachdeva Piyush Ranjan Munish , Kumar Ashish 
Published: May 2015

Background and objectivesPatients with liver cirrhosis are more prone to develop reduced bone mineral density (BMD), i.e. hepatic osteodystrophy (HOD). There are few data on the prevalence of HOD in the Indian population and its treatment. We aimed to determine the prevalence of HOD, factors associated with it and the impact of bisphosphonates on BMD in patients with liver cirrhosis.Patients and methodsConsecutive patients with liver cirrhosis admitted at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, between August 2012 and July 2013 were enrolled. Patients with chronic kidney disease, hyperparathyroidism and those on steroids were excluded. BMD was measured by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) at the lumbar spine and femoral neck. Osteopenia and osteoporosis were defined according to WHO criteria. Ibandronic acid 150 mg per day orally for six months was given to patients with osteoporosis and DEXA scan repeated.ResultsA total of 215 patients (males 179, 83%) with a mean age of 50.9 ± 11 years were enrolled in this study. Prevalence of HOD was found to be 66% (142/215). On multivariate analysis BMI, TLC, total serum bilirubin and transient elastography values were found to be independently associated with HOD. All the patients with osteoporosis (n  = 47) were treated with ibandronic acid as per protocol. Treated patients had significant improvement in DEXA scans after six months as compared to baseline.ConclusionsHOD was seen in two‐thirds of patients with liver cirrhosis. Higher liver stiffness as determined by transient elastography is significantly associated with HOD. Severity scores of liver disease (CTP and MELD) and etiology of liver cirrhosis did not determine HOD. Ibandronic acid is a safe drug that showed significant improvement in BMD in patients with liver disease along with osteoporosis.
Correlation of esophageal clearance and dysphagia symptom assessment after treatment for achalasia
Authors: Krieger‐Grübel Claudia , Tutuian Radu , Borovicka Jan 
Published: May 2015

BackgroundEarly relapse after treatment of achalasia occurs in 10–32 % of patients. The best method to follow up these patients is not known. Symptoms often do not correlate with esophageal clearance: some patients are oligosymptomatic despite persistent esophageal stasis/dilatation.AimThe aim was to compare two methods of measurement of esophageal clearance (impedance manometry with barium swallow) in achalasia patients following treatment. Symptom assessment (Eckardt score/detailed dysphagia questions) was correlated with objective measurements of esophageal stasis (barium swallow and impedance manometry) in achalasia patients following treatment.MethodsPost‐treatment patients were followed up after median 38.4 months (median range 1–144 months). Symptoms were quantified using the Eckardt score and detailed dysphagia questions. Timed barium swallow quantified distal esophageal retention 0.5, 1, 3, and 5 minutes after oral contrast and impedance manometry assessed total and segmental esophageal clearance during water/viscous swallows and free drinking (200 mL).ResultsThirty‐two patients (7 women, age 48.3; range 20–74) completed all investigations. Bolus retention in the distal esophagus assessed by impedance correlated well with barium swallow. There were no differences in impedance and timed barium swallow parameters between patients with Eckardt score 0–2 points or ≥3 points. Nine (28%) patients had an Eckardt score ≥3 points and 21 (66%) had ≥1 point in the detailed dysphagia questions. Patients without any dysphagia history had lower barium column height and width at 3 and 5 minutes compared to those with ≥1 positive answer in the detailed dysphagia questions. Correlation between the Eckardt score and detailed dysphagia questions was moderately good (r  = 0.546; p  = 0.001).ConclusionA detailed history of esophageal dysphagia rather than the Eckardt score is more sensitive to detect oligosymptomatic patients with disturbed esophageal clearance. Impedance manometry correlates well with the timed‐barium swallow examination and represents an alternative objective assessment as it avoids radiation exposure.
Addressing barriers to physical activity among women: A feasibility study using social networking-enabled technology
Authors: Arigo Danielle , Schumacher Leah M , Pinkasavage Emilie , Butryn Meghan L 
Published: May 2015

Objective Automated physical activity (PA) monitoring technology and associated social networks have potential to address barriers to PA, but have rarely been tested for PA promotion. This technology may be especially beneficial for women, who experience particular barriers to health-based social networking. The present study tested the feasibility and acceptability of pairing women as PA partners via technology-connected social networking. Social comparison (i.e. tendency to make self-evaluations relative to others) was examined as a mechanism of interest. Method Overweight women ( n = 12, Mage = 46, MBMI = 32.60 kg/m2) used a PA sensor (daily wear = 93%) and communicated with an assigned partner (introduced via technology-connected social networking) for four weeks. Partners did not know one another prior to study enrollment. Results PA meaningfully increased during the program, and was highest among participants who endorsed stronger (vs. weaker) tendencies toward social comparisons ( r = 0.64). Participants identified several benefits of partner communication; however, some partners had difficulty initiating communication, and direct comparisons with partners were seen as unhelpful in this context. Most participants found the PA sensor beneficial, showed high compliance with daily wear recommendations, and reported an intent to continue using the PA sensor. Participants endorsed satisfaction with the program's approach and confidence in maintaining PA gains. Conclusions These findings support the use of automated PA sensors and facilitated partner communication via social networking to promote PA among women. Insights from participant feedback identify specific avenues for program improvement; specifically, with respect to the potential difficulties of negative social comparisons.
Resting state brain activity in patients with migraine: a magnetoencephalography study
Authors: Liu Hongxing , Ge Huaiting , Xiang Jing , Miao Ailiang , Tang Lu , Wu Ting , Chen Qiqi , Yang Lu , Wang Xiaoshan 
Published: May 2015

Abstract

Background
Recent advances in migraine research have shown that the cerebral cortex serves a primary role in the pathogenesis of migraine. Since aberrant brain activity in migraine can be noninvasively detected with magnetoencephalography (MEG), The object of this study was to investigate the resting state cortical activity differences between migraineurs and controls and its related clinical characteristics.

Methods
Twenty-two subjects with an acute migraine and twenty-two age- and gender-matched controls were studied using MEG. MEG recordings were recorded 120 seconds during the headache attack. Analyze MEG signals from low (1–4 Hz) to high (200–1000 Hz)-frequency ranges.

Results
In comparison with the controls, brain activity in migraine subjects was significantly different from that of the controls both in two frequency ranges (55–90 Hz, p < 0.001) and (90–200 Hz, p < 0.004). But the power value showed no significantly differences between control and migraines in all frequency ranges (p > 0.05). All the clinical characteristics had no significant correlation with aberrant brain activity.

Conclusions
The results demonstrated that migraine subjects in resting state had significantly aberrant ictal brain activity that can be measured with neuromagnetic imaging techniques. The findings may facilitate the development of new therapeutic strategies in migraine treatment via alterations in cortical excitability with TMS and other medications in the future.
Physical inactivity is associated with narrower lumbar intervertebral discs, high fat content of paraspinal muscles and low back pain and disability
Authors: Teichtahl Andrew J , Urquhart Donna M , Wang Yuanyuan , Wluka Anita E , O’Sullivan Richard , Jones Graeme , Cicuttini Flavia M 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
Introduction
Although physical inactivity has been associated with numerous chronic musculoskeletal complaints, few studies have examined its associations with spinal structures. Moreover, previously reported associations between physical activity and low back pain are conflicting. This study examined the associations between physical inactivity and intervertebral disc height, paraspinal fat content and low back pain and disability.

Methods
Seventy-two community-based volunteers not selected for low back pain underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of their lumbosacral spine (L1 to S1) between 2011 and 2012. Physical activity was assessed between 2005 and 2008 by questionnaire, while low back pain and disability were assessed by the Chronic Pain Grade Scale at the time of MRI. Intervertebral disc height and cross-sectional area and fat content of multifidus and erector spinae were assessed from MRI.

Results
Lower physical activity levels were associated with a more narrow average intervertebral disc height (β −0.63 mm, 95% confidence interval (CI) −1.17 mm to −0.08 mm, P = 0.026) after adjusting for age, gender and body mass index (BMI). There were no significant associations between physical activity levels and the cross-sectional area of multifidus or erector spinae. Lower levels of physical activity were associated with an increased risk of high fat content in multifidus (odds ratio (OR) 2.7, 95% CI 1.1 to 6.7, P = 0.04) and high-intensity pain/disability (OR = 5.0, 95% CI 1.5 to 16.4, P = 0.008) after adjustment for age, gender and BMI.

Conclusions
Physical inactivity is associated with narrower intervertebral discs, high fat content of the multifidus and high-intensity low back pain and disability in a dose-dependent manner among community-based adults. Longitudinal studies will help to determine the cause and effect nature of these associations.
Inclusion complexes of trihexyphenidyl with natural and modified cyclodextrins
Authors: Maeda Hideko , Tanaka Risa , Nakayama Hirokazu 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The solubility of trihexyphenidyl (Thp) was improved by its combination with β-cyclodextrin (β−CD) and modified β-CDs. The solubility of Thp was found to be increased in the presence of β-CD, hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD), methyl-β-cyclodextrin (Me-β-CD) and sulfobutylether-β-cyclodextrin (SBE-β-CD). In particular, the solubility of Thp in conjunction with SBE-β-CD was increased by a factor of 11. The formation constant (K

c
) for the Thp/SBE-β-CD inclusion complex was determined to be 2300 L/mol based on fluorometry data. The structure of the Thp/SBE-β-CD complex in aqueous solution was examined by 1H-1H rotating frame nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (ROESY) NMR, and the phenyl moiety of the Thp was found to coordinate with the secondary hydroxyl face of the SBE-β-CD. A solid Thp/SBE-β-CD inclusion complex was prepared by freeze-drying.
Ocular cysticercosis with vitreous hemorrhage: a rare complication of a common disease
Authors: Jain Rajendra Singh , Kumar Sunil , Bhana Indu , Agarwal Rakesh 
Published: May 2015

Abstract

Introduction
Cysticercosis, a helminthic infestation caused by Taenia solium, can produce central nervous system, muscles, visceral, subcutaneous tissues and skin manifestations. Ophthalmological involvement can affect eyelids, conjunctiva, anterior chamber, uvea, vitreous, retina, extraocular muscles and optic nerve. Simultaneous co-occurrence of intracranial and intraocular cysticercosis is a common presentation in clinical practice.

Case description
We report a case of young girl who was diagnosed with multiple intracranial neurocysticercosis lesions and was on antiepileptic drugs, following which she presented with progressive painless vision loss from both the eyes. Indirect ophthalmoscopic examination showed evidence of subretinal cysts, retinal hemorrhage and retinal detachment in both the eyes. Surprisingly, bilateral vitreous hemorrhage was also detected. Ocular B-scan ultrasonography, orbital MRI and computed tomography revealed retinal detachment with vitreous hemorrhage in both the eyes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain showed multiple intraparenchymal small cystic lesions in bilateral cerebral and cerebellar hemispheres, basal ganglia, thalami and brainstem.

Conclusions
Vitreous and retinal detachment are well known complications of intraocular cysticercosis, however, vitreous hemorrhage as preoperative feature has never been reported before, although vitreous hemorrhage as postoperative complication is common.
Enhanced production of fructose ester by biocatalyzed continuous flow process
Authors: Sutili Felipe K , Ruela Halliny S , Nogueira Daniel De O , Leal Ivana CR , Miranda Leandro SM , De Souza Rodrigo OMA 
Published: May 2015

Abstract

Background
Fatty acid sugar esters are non-toxic, odorless, non-irritanting surfactants. They can be synthesized by renewable resources and are completely biodegradable in aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Their application has been expanded in innumerous areas including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, detergents and food industry. Lipase-catalyzed esterification have been investigated as a potential substitute to the traditional chemical, demanding milder reaction conditions, allowing better reaction control and providing higher-quality products. So, the lipase catalyzed sugar ester synthesis becomes an interesting strategy for producing biodegradable, non- ionic surfactants. The main disadvantage of this protocol is the poor solubility of substrates and long reaction time required for performed the esterification reaction with moderated to good yields.

Results
Here in, we report the enzymatic esterification of steric hindered fructose derivative with free fatty acids derived from palm oil refining process (RePO) under continuous flow conditions at concentrations up to 0.5 M, increasing the productivity up to 100 mg. min −1.g immob. enzyme −1.

Conclusions
The immobilized commercial enzyme from Rhizomucor miehei generated the best performance between the catalysts tested.
Theoretical and Computational Study of a Complex System Consisting of Transition Metal Element(s): How to Understand and Predict Its Geometry, Bonding Nature, Molecular Property, and Reaction Behavior
Authors: Sakaki Shigeyoshi 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
Complex chemical systems consisting of transition metal element(s) are important and attractive research targets in both experimental chemistry and theoretical chemistry. Transition-metal complexes with carbon dioxide are discussed as one example, in which the coordination geometry, bonding nature, and reactivity are understood well and predicted with the HOMO and the number of d electrons. The spin-multiplicity of inverse sandwich-type dinuclear transition-metal complexes, which have been synthesized recently as a new type of compound, is discussed as another example based on CASPT2 calculations, in which the clear relationship between the spin multiplicity of its ground state and the number of d electrons is presented. Theoretical understanding of various organometallic reactions has been an important endeavor over the last two decades. Insertion reactions of olefin and carbon dioxide into M–H and M–alkyl bonds and σ-bond activation reactions are discussed with orbital interaction diagrams based on perturbation theory. In particular, detailed discussion of the characteristic features of a new type of oxidative addition to an M–L moiety (L = neutral ligand such as alkene and alkyne) and heterolytic σ-bond activation by an M–X moiety (X = anionic ligand). It is still a central challenge to elucidate the reaction mechanisms of catalytic reactions by transition metal complexes. The reaction mechanisms and electronic processes of Ru-catalyzed hydrogenation of carbon dioxide, Pt-, Rh-, and Zr-catalyzed hydrosilylations of alkene, Ir-catalyzed borylation of benzene, and the Hiyama cross-coupling reaction are analyzed based on computational results. We wish to present how to understand the mechanism based on the number of d electrons and the energy of d orbitals in discussion. Also, the importance of solvation and crystalline effects in the theoretical study of transition-metal complexes is discussed based on our recent theoretical studies of mixed-valence complex and a single crystal of a Pt(II) complex.
Photoperiodic and circadian bifurcation theories of depression and mania
Authors: Kripke Daniel F. , Elliott Jeffrey A. , Welsh David K. , Youngstedt Shawn D. 
Published: May 2015

Seasonal effects on mood have been observed throughout much of human history. Seasonal changes in animals and plants are largely mediated through the changing photoperiod (i.e., the photophase or duration of daylight). We review that in mammals, daylight specifically regulates SCN (suprachiasmatic nucleus) circadian organization and its control of melatonin secretion. The timing of melatonin secretion interacts with gene transcription in the pituitary pars tuberalis to modulate production of TSH (thyrotropin), hypothalamic T3 (triiodothyronine), and tuberalin peptides which modulate pituitary production of regulatory gonadotropins and other hormones. Pituitary hormones largely mediate seasonal physiologic and behavioral variations. As a result of long winter nights or inadequate illumination, we propose that delayed morning offset of nocturnal melatonin secretion, suppressing pars tuberalis function, could be the main cause for winter depression and even cause depressions at other times of year. Irregularities of circadian sleep timing and thyroid homeostasis contribute to depression. Bright light and sleep restriction are antidepressant and conversely, sometimes trigger mania. We propose that internal desynchronization or bifurcation of SCN circadian rhythms may underlie rapid-cycling manic-depressive disorders and perhaps most mania. Much further research will be needed to add substance to these theories.
History of infrageneric classification, typification of supraspecific names and outstanding transfers in Curcuma (Zingiberaceae)
Authors: Leong-Škorničková Jana , Šída Otakar , Záveská Eliška , Marhold Karol 
Published: May 2015

AbstractIn this paper we provide a thorough overview of past attempts at infrageneric classification of the genus Curcuma (Zingiberaceae). As the recent results of phylogenetic analysis of the genus confirmed that previous infrageneric classifications are not tenable, we provide a revised circumscription of Curcuma with an outline of new infrageneric classification into three subgenera, C. subg. Curcuma, C. subg. Ecomatae and C. subg. Hitcheniopsis including lists of species to be included in each subgenus. Three previously recognized genera, Laosanthus, Smithatris and Stahlianthus, are sunk to Curcuma and two species previously recognized in the genus Hitchenia, H. caulina and H. glauca, are transferred/re–recognized to Curcuma. The previously proposed transfers of the monospecific genus Paracautleya, Hedychium scaposum (Kaempferia scaposa, Monolophus scaposus) and Kaempferia candida, to Curcuma are also confirmed. All connected nomenclatural innovations, corrections and outstanding typifications, inclusive those of infrageneric names, are effected in this paper. A list of excluded names originally described as members of Curcuma, but now accepted as members of other genera is also included.