bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Zygosity Determination by Questionnaire and DNA Genotyping in Chinese Adolescent Twins
Authors: Chen Jie , Li Xinying , Chen Zhiyan , Yang Xiaodong , Zhang Jie , Duan Qing , Ge Xiaojia 
Published: April 2010

AbstractThe main aim of this study was to develop and optimize a questionnaire-based zygosity determination method in Chinese adolescent twins. Participants were 471 pairs of same-sex twins (345 monozygotic, 126 dizygotic) with a mean age of 14.56 years (SD = 2.62). A second sample was recruited for cross-validation, including 382 pairs of same-sex twins (261 monozygotic, 121 dizygotic) with a mean age of 12.53 years (SD = 2.22). The questionnaire consisted of 12 questions dealing with co-twin similarity or frequency of confusion. Two means were put forward to improve the predictive accuracy of the questionnaire — adding parent-reports to the analysis, and using a 2-point rather than 3-point response format. DNA genotyping was performed on nine short tandem repeat loci, with an estimated zygosity classification accuracy very close to 100%. The validity of all questionnaires was assessed by being compared to the results of DNA analysis. Results of stepwise logistic regression analysis showed that the predictive accuracy of the 3-point self-reported questionnaire is 83.8%. Using parent-reports and 2-point scale led to 3.9% and 4.6% increase in predictive accuracy, respectively. When using the parent-reports and children's self-reports jointly, the predictive accuracy was enhanced to 90.6%. For the cross-validation, the equations and cut-offs derived from the first sample led to an acceptable accuracy (91.3%) in the second sample. In conclusion, the method we developed can be used in future studies among Chinese adolescent twins. Multiple-rater and 2-point response format were suggested for all twin studies for enhancing the predictive accuracy of questionnaires.
Population-Based Research: Breastfeeding Multiple Birth Infants / Twin Research Reviews and News: Perceived Aging in Twins; Separation of Conjoined Twins; School Placement Legislation / Twins in Education, Fashion and Humanitarian Events
Authors: Segal Nancy L. 
Published: April 2010

AbstractThe health benefits of breastfeeding are well known. However, less is known about the frequency and duration of breastfeeding in twins. A population-based study of maternal factors associated with the early cessation of breastfeeding in preterm and term twins is reviewed. This is followed by research reviews and news concerning aging in twins, conjoined twin separation and school legislation for multiple birth children. Twins and quadruplets who have distinguished themselves in the areas of education, fashion design and humanitarian efforts are highlighted.
Tumormarker beim Blasentumor: Aussichten für den klinischen Alltag / Tumor markers for bladder cancer: outlook for routine use
Authors: Ecke Thorsten H. 
Published: April 2010

Zusammenfassung
In diesem Artikel wird die aktuelle Rolle der Tumormarker beim Harnblasentumor in Diagnostik und Therapie vorgestellt. Die derzeit wichtigsten und interessantesten Tumormarker werden besonders hervorgehoben und ihr Einsatz für den klinischen Alltag diskutiert. Eine Medline-basierte Literaturrecherche wurde auf diesem Gebiet durchgeführt. Weitere Entwicklungen von Tumormarkern bei Rezidivtumoren und progressiven Krankheitsverläufen werden es in Zukunft möglich machen, Therapieoptionen für den einzelnen Patienten zu entwickeln. Molekulares Staging urologischer Tumoren kann Fälle selektieren, die von systemischen Therapien am besten profitieren. Es ist notwendig und wichtig, Grundlagenforschung und klinische Studien unter denselben Gesichtspunkten zu vereinen.
Oxidation Stability of Soy and Palm Based Biodiesels Evaluated by Pressure Differential Scanning Calorimetry
Authors: Artiaga Ramón , López-Beceiro Jorge , Tarrío-Saavedra Javier , Mier José L. , Naya Salvador , Gracia Carlos 
Published: April 2010

Abstract
The oxidation stabilizing effect of a substituted phenol on soy and palm based biodiesels was investigated according to the ASTM E2009 standard. Pressure differential scanning calorimetry (PDSC) measurements were used to evaluate the influence of oxygen pressure. A relationship was derived to describe the correlation between oxidation onset temperature and oxygen pressure. Additional standard differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis tests were performed in order to evaluate other thermal effects of the additive. The different behavior of both fuels was explained on the basis of their different physical and chemical properties. PDSC results were compared with the values obtained by the Rancimat method and the crystallization temperature observed by standard DSC was compared with the cold filter plugging point obtained according to the EN 116 standard.
The Diversity of Nutritional Status in Cancer: New Insights
Authors: Ramos Chaves Mariana , Boléo-Tomé Carolina , Monteiro-Grillo Isabel , Camilo Maria , Ravasco Paula 
Published: April 2010

Abstract

Learning Objectives
After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Explain how malnutrition (deficit or excess) is used as a decisive factor in treatment of cancer patients.Describe the interactions and influences of overweight/obesity on tumor metabolism and of individualized tumor metabolism on tumor burden and undernutrition.Use the association of sarcopenic obesity to predict and manage poorer performance status and decreased survival in cancer patients.
CME This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com

Objective.
Nutritional status in cancer has been mostly biased toward undernutrition, an issue now in dispute. We aimed to characterize nutrition status, to analyze associations between nutritional and clinical/cancer-related variables, and to quantify the relative weights of nutritional and cancer-related features.

Methods.
The cross-sectional study included 450 nonselected cancer patients (ages 18–95 years) at referral for radiotherapy. Nutritional status assessment included recent weight changes, body mass index (BMI) categorized by World Health Organization's age/sex criteria, and Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA; validated/specific for oncology).

Results.
BMI identified 63% as ≥25 kg/m2 (43% overweight, 20% obese) and 4% as undernourished. PG-SGA identified 29% as undernourished and 71% as well nourished. Crossing both methods, among the 319 (71%) well-nourished patients according to PG-SGA, 75% were overweight/obese and only 25% were well nourished according to BMI. Concordance between BMI and PG-SGA was evaluated and consistency was confirmed. More aggressive/advanced stage cancers were more prevalent in deficient and excessive nutritional status: in 83% (n = 235/282) of overweight/obese patients by BMI and in 85% (n = 111/131) of undernourished patients by PG-SGA. Results required adjustment for diagnoses: greater histological aggressiveness was found in overweight/obese prostate and breast cancer; undernutrition was associated with aggressive lung, colorectal, head-neck, stomach, and esophageal cancers (p &lt; .005). Estimates of effect size revealed that overweight/obesity was associated with advanced stage (24%), aggressive breast (10%), and prostate (9%) cancers, whereas undernutrition was associated with more aggressive lung (6%), colorectal (6%), and head-neck (6%) cancers; in both instances, age and longer disease duration were of significance.

Conclusion.
Undernutrition and overweight/obesity have distinct implications and bear a negative prognosis in cancer. This study provides novel data on the prevalence of overweight/obesity and undernutrition in cancer patients and their potential role in cancer histological behavior.
Mycorrhizal fungi reduce nutrient loss from model grassland ecosystems
Authors: van der Heijden Marcel G. A. 
Published: April 2010

Nutrient loss from ecosystems is among the top environmental threats to ecosystems worldwide, leading to reduced plant productivity in nutrient‐poor ecosystems and eutrophication of surface water near nutrient‐rich ecosystems. Hence, it is of pivotal importance to understand which factors influence nutrient loss. Here it is demonstrated that arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, widespread soil fungi that form mutualistic relationships with the majority of land plants, reduce nutrient loss from grassland microcosms during rain‐induced leaching events.Grassland microcosms with AM fungi lost 60% less phosphorus and 7.5% less ammonium compared to control microcosms without AM fungi. Similar results were obtained for microcosms planted with each of three different grass species. In contrast, nitrate leaching was not affected by AM fungi but depended on the amount of nutrients supplied to the microcosms. Moreover, fertilization of the microcosms reduced the abundance of AM fungi and their ability to reduce phosphorus leaching losses. Extrapolation of these results suggests that the disruption of the mycorrhizal symbiosis is one of the reasons for enhanced phosphorus loss from fertilized ecosystems.The microcosms contained a sandy soil, a soil type vulnerable to leaching losses. The reduction of phosphorus leaching by AM fungi may, therefore, represent an upper limit. Advantages and limitations of the experimental setup for assessing the impact of AM fungi on nutrient cycling are discussed.The results indicate that AM fungi contribute to ecosystem sustainability by promoting a closed phosphorus cycle and reducing phosphorus leaching losses.
Gingival Enlargement in Children Administered Cyclosporine After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Lin Yng‐Tzer , Yang Fang‐Tai 
Published: April 2010

Background: Cyclosporine, a potent immunosuppressant agent, has significantly reduced the morbidity and mortality rates associated with solid‐organ transplantations. The major side effect of this drug in the oral cavity is gingival enlargement. Cyclosporine‐induced gingival enlargement was reported by different transplant centers as varying from 7% to 80%. Many factors related to cyclosporine‐induced gingival overgrowth have been investigated. However, controversies still exist. This study investigates the effects of cyclosporine on the gingival tissues of liver‐transplant pediatric patients, determines the prevalence and severity of gingival overgrowth, and analyzes the relationship between gingival enlargement and possible risk factors.Methods: Twenty‐five children aged <4 years old (15 males and 10 females) with end‐stage liver disease, and awaiting liver transplantation were selected for this study. During the pretransplant period, baseline data were collected including serum level of cyclosporine and gingival enlargement, plaque, and gingival bleeding indices. After liver transplantation, all subjects received <5 mg/kg cyclosporine as an immunosuppressant agent. The children had the same data collected immediately and 3, 6, and 12 months after liver transplantation.Results: The results show that the cyclosporine‐induced gingival enlargement of these children is not statistically associated with their age, gender, gingival inflammation, or serum level of cyclosporine (P >0.05). The gingival enlargement was found to be significantly related to the plaque index at each time period until 12 months after liver transplantation (P <0.05). An increased tendency of gingival enlargement was found in the immediate post‐transplant examination and at 3 months after liver transplantation.Conclusions: Children administered cyclosporine after liver transplantation show that gingival enlargement is statistically more related to the plaque index than other factors such as age, gender, gingival inflammation, or the serum level of cyclosporine, which suggests that plaque control plays an important role in eliminating gingival enlargement in children who have undergone liver transplantation.
Estimating Adolescent Risk for Hearing Loss Based on Data From a Large School-Based Survey
Authors: Vogel Ineke , Verschuure Hans , van der Ploeg Catharina P. B. , Brug Johannes , Raat Hein 
Published: April 2010

Objectives. We estimated whether and to what extent a group of adolescents were at risk of developing permanent hearing loss as a result of voluntary exposure to high-volume music, and we assessed whether such exposure was associated with hearing-related symptoms. Methods. In 2007, 1512 adolescents (aged 12–19 years) in Dutch secondary schools completed questionnaires about their music-listening behavior and whether they experienced hearing-related symptoms after listening to high-volume music. We used their self-reported data in conjunction with published average sound levels of music players, discotheques, and pop concerts to estimate their noise exposure, and we compared that exposure to our own “loosened” (i.e., less strict) version of current European safety standards for occupational noise exposure. Results. About half of the adolescents exceeded safety standards for occupational noise exposure. About one third of the respondents exceeded safety standards solely as a result of listening to MP3 players. Hearing symptoms that occurred after using an MP3 player or going to a discotheque were associated with exposure to high-volume music. Conclusions. Adolescents often exceeded current occupational safety standards for noise exposure, highlighting the need for specific safety standards for leisure-time noise exposure.
Heat–Health Warning Systems: A Comparison of the Predictive Capacity of Different Approaches to Identifying Dangerously Hot Days
Authors: Hajat Shakoor , Sheridan Scott C. , Allen Michael J. , Pascal Mathilde , Laaidi Karine , Yagouti Abderrahmane , Bickis Ugis , Tobias Aurelio , Bourque Denis , Armstrong Ben G. , Kosatsky Tom 
Published: April 2010

Objectives. We compared the ability of several heat–health warning systems to predict days of heat-associated mortality using common data sets. Methods. Heat–health warning systems initiate emergency public health interventions once forecasts have identified weather conditions to breach predetermined trigger levels. We examined 4 commonly used trigger-setting approaches: (1) synoptic classification, (2) epidemiologic assessment of the temperature–mortality relationship, (3) temperature–humidity index, and (4) physiologic classification. We applied each approach in Chicago, Illinois; London, United Kingdom; Madrid, Spain; and Montreal, Canada, to identify days expected to be associated with the highest heat-related mortality. Results. We found little agreement across the approaches in which days were identified as most dangerous. In general, days identified by temperature–mortality assessment were associated with the highest excess mortality. Conclusions. Triggering of alert days and ultimately the initiation of emergency responses by a heat–health warning system varies significantly across approaches adopted to establish triggers.
Individual and Network Interventions With Injection Drug Users in 5 Ukraine Cities
Authors: Booth Robert E. , Lehman Wayne E. K. , Latkin Carl A. , Dvoryak Sergey , Brewster John T. , Royer Mark S. , Sinitsyna Larisa 
Published: April 2010

Objectives. We evaluated the effects of an individual intervention versus a network intervention on HIV-related injection and sexual risk behaviors among street-recruited opiate injection drug users in 5 Ukraine cities. Methods. Between 2004 and 2006, 722 opiate injection drug users were recruited to participate in interventions that were either individually based or based on a social network model in which peer educators intervened with their network members. Audio computer-assisted self-interview techniques were used to interview participants at baseline and follow-up. Results. Multiple logistic analyses controlling for baseline injection and sexual risks revealed that both peer educators and network members in the network intervention reduced injection-related risk behaviors significantly more than did those in the individually based intervention and that peer educators increased condom use significantly more than did those in the individual intervention. Individual intervention participants, however, showed significantly greater improvements than did network members with respect to reductions in sexual risk behaviors. Conclusions. Social network interventions may be more effective than individually based interventions in changing injection risk behaviors among both peer educators and network members. The effectiveness of network interventions in changing sexual risk behaviors is less clear, probably owing to network composition and inhibitions regarding discussing sexual risk behaviors.
Percentage of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Attributable to Overweight and Obesity
Authors: Kim Shin Y. , England Lucinda , Wilson Hoyt G. , Bish Connie , Satten Glen A. , Dietz Patricia 
Published: April 2010

Objectives. We calculated the percentage of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) attributable to overweight and obesity. Methods. We analyzed 2004 through 2006 data from 7 states using the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System linked to revised 2003 birth certificate information. We used logistic regression to estimate the magnitude of the association between prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and GDM and calculated the percentage of GDM attributable to overweight and obesity. Results. GDM prevalence rates by BMI category were as follows: underweight (13–18.4 kg/m2), 0.7%; normal weight (18.5–24.9 kg/m2), 2.3%; overweight (25–29.9 kg/m2), 4.8%; obese (30–34.9 kg/m2), 5.5%; and extremely obese (35–64.9 kg/m2), 11.5%. Percentages of GDM attributable to overweight, obesity, and extreme obesity were 15.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 8.6, 22.2), 9.7% (95% CI = 5.2, 14.3), and 21.1% (CI = 15.2, 26.9), respectively. The overall population-attributable fraction was 46.2% (95% CI = 36.1, 56.3). Conclusions. If all overweight and obese women (BMI of 25 kg/m2 or above) had a GDM risk equal to that of normal-weight women, nearly half of GDM cases could be prevented. Public health efforts to reduce prepregnancy BMI by promoting physical activity and healthy eating among women of reproductive age should be intensified.
Socioeconomic Gradients in Sexually Transmitted Diseases: A Geographic Information System–Based Analysis of Poverty, Race/Ethnicity, and Gonorrhea Rates in California, 2004–2006
Authors: Springer Yuri P. , Samuel Michael C. , Bolan Gail 
Published: April 2010

Objectives. We quantified the relationship between gonorrheal infection rates in California and a measure of poverty status and investigated how this relationship and the spatial dispersion of cases varied among the 4 dominant racial/ethnic groups in the state. Methods. We geocoded gonorrhea cases reported in California between 2004 and 2006, and estimated the poverty status of each case by using the percentage of residents living below poverty in the census tract of residence. We calculated infection rates for African American, Asian, Hispanic, and White cases in each of 4 poverty strata. We mapped cases to visualize the patterns of spatial dispersion associated with each race/ethnicity–poverty combination. Results. There was a strong positive relationship between poverty and infection, but racial/ethnic disparities in infection, driven by a disproportionate level of gonorrhea among African Americans, eclipsed this differential. The degree of spatial aggregation varied substantially among groups and was especially pronounced for African Americans with gonorrhea in the highest poverty category. Conclusions. Prevention efforts should target low-income neighborhood “hot spots” to reach the largest numbers of cases, particularly among African Americans.
Testing for Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Association Between Childhood Socioeconomic Position and Adult Adiposity
Authors: Trotter LaTonya J. , Bowen Deborah J. , Beresford Shirley A. A. 
Published: April 2010

Objectives. We tested the association between 2 measures of childhood socioeconomic position (SEP) and adult body mass index (BMI), stratified by race and ethnicity. Methods. We used regression analyses to examine associations between adult BMI and 2 measures of childhood SEP (maternal education and whether the head of the child's household was working class), adjusted for a robust set of adult SEP measures, in a sample of 2068 adults from Los Angeles County, California. Results. Maternal educational attainment was associated with a lower median adult BMI among Whites (8% decrease for high school diploma and 9% decrease for a college degree, compared with no high school diploma). A maternal high school diploma was associated with a 6% decrease in median adult BMI among Hispanics and an 11% decrease among Blacks. Our measure of childhood working-class status was not correlated with adult BMI. Conclusions. Our results suggest that childhood SEP is independently associated with adult BMI. However, our results also suggest that the effect may depend on which measures of SEP are used and that some aspects of childhood SEP may matter more for adult BMI than others.
Clinic Versus Over-the-Counter Access to Oral Contraception: Choices Women Make Along the US–Mexico Border
Authors: Potter Joseph E. , White Kari , Hopkins Kristine , Amastae Jon , Grossman Daniel 
Published: April 2010

Objectives. As part of the Border Contraceptive Access Study, we interviewed oral contraceptive (OC) users living in El Paso, Texas, to assess motivations for patronizing a US clinic or a Mexican pharmacy with over-the-counter (OTC) pills and to determine which women were likely to use the OTC option. Methods. We surveyed 532 clinic users and 514 pharmacy users about background characteristics, motivations for choosing their OC source, and satisfaction with this source. Results. Older women and women born and educated in Mexico were more likely to patronize pharmacies. Cost of pills was the main motivation for choosing their source for 40% of pharmacy users and 23% of clinic users. The main advantage cited by 49% of clinic users was availability of other health services. Bypassing the requirement to obtain a doctor's prescription was most important for 27% of pharmacy users. Both groups were very satisfied with their pill source. Conclusions. Women of different ages, parities, and educational levels would likely take advantage of an OTC option were OCs available at low cost. Improving clinic provision of OCs should be considered.