bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Palliative care services for those with chronic lung disease
Authors: Partridge MR , Khatri A , Sutton L , Welham S , Ahmedzai SH
Published: January 2009

Excellent palliative care is available for patients with advanced lung cancer. Whether the same services are available for those with nonmalignant respiratory disease is less clear. A questionnaire was sent to 210 named respiratory physicians, each representing a major hospital in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. A total of 107 replies were received; the response rate was 51.0%. Respondents cared for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asbestosis, and diffuse parenchymal lung disease but only a third had responsibility for cystic fibrosis. Physicians were supported by a mean of 3.4 respiratory nurse specialists per department and 73.8% had a specialist lung cancer nurse. In only 16 cases (20.3%) did that nurse extend care to those with nonmalignant disease. Only a minority reported easy access to hospice in-patient care or day care. About 21.5% of the respondents had formal policies in place for care of patients with chronic respiratory disease nearing the end of life, but 87.9% of respondents had no formal process for initiating end of life discussions with those with terminal respiratory illness. Patients with advanced nonmalignant respiratory disease have less universal access to specialist palliative care services than do those with malignant lung disease, and in the majority of hospitals there is no formalized approach to end of life care issues with patients with chronic lung disease.
A General Biosocial Paradigm of Antisocial Behavior
Authors: Vaughn Michael G. , Beaver Kevin M. , DeLisi Matt
Published: January 2009

Using the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health), the current study delineates and tests a general biosocial liability theoretical model of antisocial behavior. Along with measures of genetic polymorphisms, neurocognitive skills, self-control, and environmental pathogens, a recursive path-modeling strategy was used to empirically examine the relations between these biosocial measures and forms of antisocial behavior in a subsample of 1,136 adolescent males. Results supported the main predictions of the biosocial liability model, finding significant path coefficients across key constructs. Findings are discussed in light of current theories of antisocial behavior, future studies, and implications for prevention and intervention.
Opportunity, Involvement, and Student Exposure to School Violence
Authors: Peguero Anthony A.
Published: January 2009

Exposure to violence, beyond more obvious physical injuries, has long-term emotional and psychological consequences for youth. It should thus come as no surprise that much research has focused on the correlates of youth exposure to violence and victimization. Less attention, however, has been paid to research examining the relationship between school involvement (i.e., extracurricular activities), opportunity, and youth exposure to school violence and victimization. Analyses that draw from the restricted-use Educational Longitudinal Study of 2002 and that use logistic regression analyses suggest some important results. Most notably, involvement in classroom-related extracurricular activities is linked to an increase in victimization, whereas interscholastic sports involvement is related to a decrease in victimization for youth who participate. Besides discussing the findings of this study, this article also underscores the importance of understanding youth exposure to school violence in greater depth.
Staged Introduction of Antiretroviral Therapy Into a Family with Multiple HIV-Infected Members
Authors: Fielder Jon F. , Kwatampora Lily
Published: January 2009

Children and families bear a significant burden of human immunodeficiency virus disease globally, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Care of severely affected families can be adversely impacted by high medication burdens and overwhelmed caregivers, who themselves may be human immunodeficiency virus infected. Family-centered care involving joint clinic days, treatment preparation, adherence counseling, and community-based follow-up may improve the care of family units. We describe the successful treatment of a single family composed of 6 infected members living in a rural African setting.
Cofactors for Low Serum Albumin Levels Among HIV-Infected Individuals in Southern India
Authors: Sundaram M. , Srinivas C.N. , Shankar E.M. , Balakrishnan P. , Solomon S. , Kumarasamy N.
Published: January 2009

Background and aims. Malnutrition and low serum albumin among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals are cofactors for HIV disease progression. The present study aimed to identify the proportion of HIV-infected individuals with low serum albumin and the possible cofactors among highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) experienced and HAART naïve individuals. Methods. A total of 835 HIV-infected individuals (HAART-experienced, HAART-naïve) were included in the study. Results. Of the 835 individuals, 44.6% had normal (4.2-5.2 g/dL) and 55.4% had abnormal (<4.2 g/dL) albumin levels. The abnormal group had significantly lower body mass index (BMI) compared with the normal group (P = .02). Among those with abnormal albumin, 388 (84%) were HAART experienced compared with 239 (64%) with normal albumin (P < .001). Among the abnormal group, 259 (55.9%) had CD4 count <200 cells/mL as compared with 124 (33.3%) in the normal group (P < .001). Conclusions. CD4 count and lower were the major cofactors for low serum albumin among HIV-infected individuals. Therefore, serum albumin would be a useful biochemical test for HIV disease in resource-limited settings.
Olmesartan improves left ventricular function in pressure-overload hypertrophied rat heart by blocking angiotensin II receptor with synergic effects of upregulation of angiotensin converting enzyme 2
Authors: Kaiqiang Ji  , Minakawa Masahito , Fukui Kozo , Suzuki Yasuyuki , Fukuda Ikuo
Published: January 2009

It is not clear how the blocking effect of angiotensin II receptors by olmesartan affects the functional recovery of pressure-overload hypertrophied heart. Hypertrophied heart was created by abdominal aortic banding above the celiac artery in Wistar rats at the age of eight weeks. Hypertrophied heart was excised and studied at 10 and 16 weeks after the operation (HT groups). For the last four weeks before the experiment, olmesartan (0.2 mg/kg per day) was administered subcutaneously by osmotic minipumps (Olm groups). Left ventricular function was measured by Langendorff perfusion. The levels of mRNA for angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), ACE2 and extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERKs) in myocardium were analyzed by RT-PCR. Left ventricular systolic (+d P/dtmax, left ventricular systolic pressure) and diastolic functions (-d P/dtmax, tau) were impaired in HT groups, while in Olm groups they were significantly improved. The left ventricle to body weight (LV/BW) ratio increased significantly in HT groups, but in Olm groups the LV/BW ratio decreased significantly in comparison with HT groups. The ACE2 mRNA level was significantly higher in Olm groups as compared with HT groups. Plasma angiotensin II and the ERK mRNA level in HT groups increased significantly, but decreased in Olm groups in comparison with HT groups significantly. Olmesartan improved left ventricular function and hypertrophy through the increase of the ACE2 mRNA and decrease of both angiotensin II and ERK mRNA in pressure-overload rat heart.
Aldosterone and progression of kidney disease
Authors: Cortinovis Monica , Perico Norberto , Cattaneo Dario , Remuzzi Giuseppe
Published: January 2009

Experimental evidence indicates that aldosterone, besides its mineralcorticoid properties, directly contributes to accelerate renal damage through promotion of cell growth, fibrosis and inflammation. As a consequence, attenuation of growth-promoting and fibroproliferative effects of aldosterone might contribute to slow progression of chronic renal injury. Preliminary clinical observations have documented that aldosterone blockers added to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor- and/or angiotensin receptor blocker-based regimens exerted significant antiproteinuric effects in patients with diabetic and nondiabetic nephropathies. Further studies in larger cohorts are now required to definitively address the safety and efficacy of aldosterone antagonism in patients with chronic kidney diseases.
Outcomes From an Oral Feeding Protocol Implemented in the NICU
Authors: Drenckpohl Douglas , Dudas Rebecca , Justice Suzanne , McConnell Connie , Macwan Kamlesh S.
Published: January 2009

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of 2 different oral feeding protocols. The old protocol advanced oral feedings based on established feeding times, whereas the new evidenced-based protocol advanced oral feedings using infant cues. This retrospective study, conducted by reviewing the charts of premature infants born less than or at 34 weeks' gestation, documented the differences between the 2 oral feeding protocols. The medical records were reviewed for 200 premature infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at Children's Hospital of Illinois, Peoria, Illinois. The main outcome variables this study compared were when infants started oral feedings, time to achieve 50% and 100% feedings orally, weight at time of oral feeding, day of life, and postmenstrual age. The percentage of feedings when oral stimulation was ordered, frequency of feeding therapy consultations, length of stay, weight at the time of discharge, and postmenstrual age at the time of discharge were also compared. Infants participating in the new feeding protocol began oral feedings at an earlier postmenstrual age as compared to infants using the old feeding protocol. Participants enrolled in this new protocol did not experience adverse events. They were also able to progress to full oral feedings while maintaining adequate weight, had less need for feeding therapy consultations, and length of stay was not prolonged.
A Comparative Study of Parental Behaviors and Children's Eating Habits
Authors: Bowne Mary
Published: January 2009

Childhood obesity poses a serious threat to the health of our nation. Specifically, the preschool years (3-5 years of age) have been identified as a crucial time to study the determinants of childhood nutrition and obesity. This study investigated the body mass index (BMI) of children ages 3 to 5 years, as well as parenting behaviors and parenting styles and how they possibly influenced children's eating habits and overall BMIs. Results indicated there was a significant difference between parenting styles and children's eating habits, with authoritative parents labeling their children's eating habits as either very good or good and permissive parents labeling their children's eating habits as fair. In addition, results indicated a significant difference between parents' educational levels and personal BMIs. As parents' educational level increased, their BMI levels decreased.
Relationship Between Parents' and Children's Weight Perceptions Results of a Survey
Authors: Huang Jeannie S. , Donohue Michael , Becerra Karen , Ronghui Xu
Published: January 2009

Self-recognition of overweight status is often the initial step toward successful weight management. Among children, parental recognition of overweight status in their child may also be necessary for weight management success given the role of parents in engaging their child in weight-related behaviors. This study explored parental influence on their child's weight self-perception and their child's desire to lose weight. In total, 718 children and their parents were surveyed concerning children's personal weight status. The effect of parental weight perceptions on their child's weight self-perception and their child's desire to lose weight (among children ≥ 85th body mass index percentile for age and sex) was evaluated using generalized estimating equation (GEE) modeling. In GEE regression analyses, children's perceptions of their own weight (correct vs incorrect) were significantly associated with their parents' ability to correctly recognize their child's weight status. Among overweight and obese children, desire to lose weight was strongly associated with parental ability to correctly recognize their child's weight status. Children's self-perceptions of weight and overweight and obese children's desire to lose weight are strongly associated with parental perceptions of their child's weight. Our data indicate that interventions promoting healthy weight perceptions for pediatric weight management should target not only children but also their parents.
Validity and Reliability of Photographic Diet Diaries for Assessing Dietary Intake Among Young Children
Authors: Small Leigh , Sidora-Arcoleo Kimberly , Vaughan Linda , Creed-Capsel Jessica , Chung Kuo-Yi , Stevens Carol
Published: January 2009

Obtaining valid, reliable dietary intake data for young children is challenging. The objective of this study was to assess the validity, reliability, and acceptability of the addition of photography to traditional written diet diaries for recording young children's dietary intake. Twenty-two parents of preschoolers enrolled to complete a 2-day photographic diet diary for their child. Diaries were coded by a trained nursing student for food weight, calories, and macronutrients. A random sample of diaries was evaluated by an independent nutritionist to determine interrater reliability. Convergent validity was tested by comparing visual estimates and actual values of photos of 24 researcher-created meals/snacks. Acceptability was assessed through participants' feedback, completion rates for the project, project costs, and quality of the data obtained. Reliability was assessed by computing intraclass correlations between caloric and macronutrient data from 2 independent diary evaluators. Convergent validity was assessed by calculating intraclass correlations between visually estimated photo diary evaluations and actual premeasured researcher-created meals/snacks. Medium to large correlations between the 2 independent evaluators (.51-.63) were found for caloric and macronutrient values, with the exception of protein (r = –.21). Strong correlations (food served, r = .69-.96; food consumed, r = .66-.83) were obtained between visual estimates and actual values of calories and macronutrients for the premeasured foods. Preliminary results indicate the addition of photographs to a traditional diet diary may enhance the validity and reliability of prospective dietary intake recording. Parents and children indicated the activity was fun, and quality data resulted, indicating that this method is acceptable.
Inhibition of aurora kinases for tailored risk-adapted treatment of multiple myeloma
Authors: Hose Dirk , Rème Thierry , Meissner Tobias , Moreaux Jérôme , Seckinger Anja , Lewis Joe , Benes Vladimir , Benner Axel , Hundemer Michael , Hielscher Thomas , Shaughnessy John D. , Barlogie Bart , Neben Kai , Krämer Alwin , Hillengass Jens , Bertsch Uta , Jauch Anna , De Vos John , Rossi Jean-François , Möhler Thomas , Blake Jonathon , Zimmermann Jürgen , Klein Bernard , Goldschmidt Hartmut
Published: January 2009

Genetic instability and cellular proliferation have been associated with aurora kinase expression in several cancer entities, including multiple myeloma. Therefore, the expression of aurora-A, -B, and -C was determined by Affymetrix DNA microarrays in 784 samples including 2 independent sets of 233 and 345 CD138-purified myeloma cells from previously untreated patients. Chromosomal aberrations were assessed by comprehensive interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization and proliferation of primary myeloma cells by propidium iodine staining. We found aurora-A and -B to be expressed at varying frequencies in primary myeloma cells of different patient cohorts, but aurora-C in testis cell samples only. Myeloma cell samples with detectable versus absent aurora-A expression show a significantly higher proliferation rate, but neither a higher absolute number of chromosomal aberrations (aneuploidy), nor of subclonal aberrations (chromosomal instability). The clinical aurora kinase inhibitor VX680 induced apoptosis in 20 of 20 myeloma cell lines and 5 of 5 primary myeloma cell samples. Presence of aurora-A expression delineates significantly inferior event-free and overall survival in 2 independent cohorts of patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy, independent from conventional prognostic factors. Using gene expression profiling, aurora kinase inhibitors as a promising therapeutic option in myeloma can be tailoredly given to patients expressing aurora-A, who in turn have an adverse prognosis.
Infection and genotype remodel the entire soybean transcriptome
Authors: Zhou Lecong , Mideros Santiago X , Bao Lei , Hanlon Regina , Arredondo Felipe D , Tripathy Sucheta , Krampis Konstantinos , Jerauld Adam , Evans Clive , St Martin Steven K , Maroof MA Saghai , Hoeschele Ina , Dorrance Anne E , Tyler Brett M
Published: January 2009

Background

High throughput methods, such as high density oligonucleotide microarray measurements of mRNA levels, are popular and critical to genome scale analysis and systems biology. However understanding the results of these analyses and in particular understanding the very wide range of levels of transcriptional changes observed is still a significant challenge. Many researchers still use an arbitrary cut off such as two-fold in order to identify changes that may be biologically significant. We have used a very large-scale microarray experiment involving 72 biological replicates to analyze the response of soybean plants to infection by the pathogenPhytophthora sojaeand to analyze transcriptional modulation as a result of genotypic variation.

Results

With the unprecedented level of statistical sensitivity provided by the high degree of replication, we show unambiguously that almost the entire plant genome (97 to 99% of all detectable genes) undergoes transcriptional modulation in response to infection and genetic variation. The majority of the transcriptional differences are less than two-fold in magnitude. We show that low amplitude modulation of gene expression (less than two-fold changes) is highly statistically significant and consistent across biological replicates, even for modulations of less than 20%. Our results are consistent through two different normalization methods and two different statistical analysis procedures.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that the entire plant genome undergoes transcriptional modulation in response to infection and genetic variation. The pervasive low-magnitude remodeling of the transcriptome may be an integral component of physiological adaptation in soybean, and in all eukaryotes.
Clinical significance of altered nm23-H1, EGFR, RB and p53 expression in bilharzial bladder cancer
Authors: Khaled Hussein M , Bahnassy Abeer A , Raafat Amira A , Zekri Abdel-Rahman N , Madboul Maha S , Mokhtar Nadia M
Published: January 2009

Background

Clinical characterization of bladder carcinomas is still inadequate using the standard clinico-pathological prognostic markers. We assessed the correlation between nm23-H1, Rb, EGFR and p53 in relation to the clinical outcome of patients with muscle invasive bilharzial bladder cancer (MI-BBC).

Methods

nm23-H1, Rb, EGFR and p53 expression was assessed in 59 MI-BBC patients using immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription (RT-PCR) and was correlated to the standard clinico-pathological prognostic factors, patient's outcome and the overall survival (OS) rate.

Results

Overexpression of EGFR and p53 proteins was detected in 66.1% and 35.6%; respectively. Loss of nm23-H1and Rb proteins was detected in 42.4% and 57.6%; respectively. Increased EGFR and loss of nm23-H1 RNA were detected in 61.5% and 36.5%; respectively. There was a statistically significant correlation between p53 and EGFR overexpression (p < 0.0001), nm23 loss (protein and RNA), lymph node status (p < 0.0001); between the incidence of local recurrence and EGFR RNA overexpression (p= 0.003) as well as between the incidence of metastasis and altered Rb expression (p = 0.026), p53 overexpression (p < 0.0001) and mutation (p = 0.04). Advanced disease stage correlated significantly with increased EGFR (protein and RNA) (p = 0.003 & 0.01), reduced nm23-H1 RNA (p = 0.02), altered Rb (p = 0.023), and p53 overexpression (p = 0.004). OS rates correlated significantly, in univariate analysis, with p53 overexpression (p = 0.011), increased EGFR (protein and RNA, p = 0.034&0.031), nm23-H1 RNA loss (p = 0.021) and aberrations of ≥ 2 genes. However, multivariate analysis showed that only high EGFR overexpression, metastatic recurrence, high tumor grade and the combination of ≥ 2 affected markers were independent prognostic factors.

Conclusion

nm23-H1, EGFR and p53 could be used as prognostic biomarkers in MI-BBC patients. In addition to the standard pathological prognostic factors, a combination of these markers (≥ 2) has synergistic effects in stratifying patients into variable risk groups. The higher is the number of altered biomarkers, the higher will be the risk of disease progression and death.
A glycosylated recombinant human granulocyte colony stimulating factor produced in a novel protein production system (AVI-014) in healthy subjects: a first-in human, single dose, controlled study
Authors: Varki Roslyn , Pequignot Ed , Leavitt Mark C , Ferber Andres , Kraft Walter K
Published: January 2009

Background

AVI-014 is an egg white-derived, recombinant, human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF). This healthy volunteer study is the first human investigation of AVI-014.

Methods

24 male and female subjects received a single subcutaneous injection of AVI-014 at 4 or 8 mcg/kg. 16 control subjects received 4 or 8 mcg/kg of filgrastim (Neupogen, Amgen) in a partially blinded, parallel fashion.

Results

The Geometric Mean Ratio (GMR) (90% CI) of 4 mcg/kg AVI-014/filgrastim AUC(0–72 hr) was 1.00 (0.76, 1.31) and Cmax was 0.86 (0.66, 1.13). At the 8 mcg/kg dose, the AUC(0–72) GMR was 0.89 (0.69, 1.14) and Cmax was 0.76 (0.58, 0.98). A priori pharmacokinetic bioequivalence was defined as the 90% CI of the GMR bounded by 0.8–1.25. Both the white blood cell and absolute neutrophil count area under the % increase curve AUC(0–9 days) and Cmax (maximal % increase from baseline)GMR at 4 and 8 mcg/kg fell within the 0.5–2.0 a priori bound set for pharmacodynamic bioequivalence. The CD 34+ % increase curve AUC(0–9 days) and Cmax GMR for both doses was ~1, but 90% confidence intervals were large due to inherent variance, and this measure did not meet pharmacodynamic bioequivalence. AVI-014 demonstrated a side effect profile similar to that of filgrastim.

Conclusion

AVI-014 has safety, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic properties comparable to filgrastim at an equal dose in healthy volunteers. These findings support further investigation in AVI-014.
Use of folding modulators to improve heterologous protein production in Escherichia coli
Authors: Kolaj Olga , Spada Stefania , Robin Sylvain , Wall J Gerard
Published: January 2009

Despite the fundamental importance ofE. coliin the manufacture of a wide range of biotechnological and biomedical products, extensive process and/or target optimisation is routinely required in order to achieve functional yields in excess of low mg/l levels. Molecular chaperones and folding catalysts appear to present a panacea for problems of heterologous protein folding in the organism, due largely to their broad substrate range compared with,e.g., protein-specific mutagenesis approaches. Painstaking investigation of chaperone overproduction has, however, met with mixed – and largely unpredictable – results to date. The past 5 years have nevertheless seen an explosion in interest in exploiting the native folding modulators ofE. coli, and particularly cocktails thereof, driven largely by the availability of plasmid systems that facilitate simultaneous, non-rational screening of multiple chaperones during recombinant protein expression. As interest in usingE. colito produce recombinant membrane proteins and even glycoproteins grows, approaches to reduce aggregation, delay host cell lysis and optimise expression of difficult-to-express recombinant proteins will become even more critical over the coming years. In this review, we critically evaluate the performance of molecular chaperones and folding catalysts native toE. coliin improving functional production of heterologous proteins in the bacterium and we discuss how they might best be exploited to provide increased amounts of correctly-folded, active protein for biochemical and biophysical studies.
Primary hepatic carcinoid tumor: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Lin Chih-Wen , Lai Chung-Hsu , Hsu Chia-Chang , Hsu Chao-Tien , Hsieh Pei-Min , Hung Kuo-Chen , Chen Yaw-Sen
Published: January 2009

Background

Primary hepatic carcinoid tumor (PHCT) is very rare and difficult to diagnose before biopsy or operation. We report a patient with a small PHCT and review cases in the literature.

Case presentation

A 48-year-old Chinese female with underlying hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection was found to have a low echoic hepatic nodule by abdominal ultrasound. Tumor markers were negative. Dynamic liver computed tomography scans showed enhancement of the nodule in the arterial phase and early washout in the portal phase. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was considered based on the image findings and underlying HBV infection. However, the tumor biopsy revealed a malignant neoplasm that originating from neuroendocrine cells. Pre-operative and intra-operative investigations for the possible other origin of carcinoid tumor were negative, so PHCT was confirmed.

Conclusion

A small and asymptomatic PHCT is extremely rare. PHCT should be one of the differential diagnoses in patients with small hepatic tumor, even in regions with high prevalence of HBV infection and HCC. Pre-operative biopsy is necessary to avoid misdiagnosis even when HCC is highly suspected clinically.
The retinoic acid binding protein CRABP2 is increased in murine models of degenerative joint disease
Authors: Welch Ian D , Cowan Matthew F , Beier Frank , Underhill Tully M
Published: January 2009

Introduction

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a debilitating disease with poorly defined aetiology. Multiple signals are involved in directing the formation of cartilage during development and the vitamin A derivatives, the retinoids, figure prominently in embryonic cartilage formation. In the present study, we examined the expression of a retinoid-regulated gene in murine models of OA.

Methods

Mild and moderate forms of an OA-like degenerative disease were created in the mouse stifle joint by meniscotibial transection (MTX) and partial meniscectomy (PMX), respectively. Joint histopathology was scored using an Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) system and gene expression (Col1a1, Col10a1, Sox9 and Crabp2) in individual joints was determined using TaqMan quantitative PCR on RNA from microdissected articular knee cartilage.

Results

For MTX, there was a significant increase in the joint score at 10 weeks (n = 4, p < 0.001) in comparison to sham surgeries. PMX surgery was slightly more severe and produced significant changes in joint score at six (n = 4, p < 0.01), eight (n = 4, p < 0.001) and 10 (n = 4, p < 0.001) weeks. The expression of Col1a1 was increased in both surgical models at two, four and six weeks post-surgery. In contrast, Col10a1 and Sox9 for the most part showed no significant difference in expression from two to six weeks post-surgery. Crabp2 expression is induced upon activation of the retinoid signalling pathway. At two weeks after surgery in the MTX and PMX animals, Crabp2 expression was increased about 18-fold and about 10-fold over the sham control, respectively. By 10 weeks, Crabp2 expression was increased about three-fold (n = 7, not significant) in the MTX animals and about five-fold (n = 7, p < 0.05) in the PMX animals in comparison to the contralateral control joint.

Conclusions

Together, these findings suggest that the retinoid signalling pathway is activated early in the osteoarthritic process and is sustained during the course of the disease.
Long-Term Results for Children With High-Risk Neuroblastoma Treated on a Randomized Trial of Myeloablative Therapy Followed by 13-cis-Retinoic Acid: A Children's Oncology Group Study
Authors: Matthay Katherine K. , Reynolds C. Patrick , Seeger Robert C. , Shimada Hiroyuki , Adkins E. Stanton , Haas-Kogan Daphne , Gerbing Robert B. , London Wendy B. , Villablanca Judith G.
Published: January 2009

Purpose

We assessed the long-term outcome of patients enrolled on CCG-3891, a high-risk neuroblastoma study in which patients were randomly assigned to undergo autologous purged bone marrow transplantation (ABMT) or to receive chemotherapy, and subsequent treatment with 13-cis-retinoic acid (cis-RA).

Patients and Methods

Patients received the same induction chemotherapy, with random assignment (N = 379) to consolidation with myeloablative chemotherapy, total-body irradiation, and ABMT versus three cycles of intensive chemotherapy. Patients who completed consolidation without disease progression were randomly assigned to receive no further therapy or cis-RA for 6 months.

Results

The event-free survival (EFS) for patients randomly assigned to ABMT was significantly higher than those randomly assigned to chemotherapy; the 5-year EFS (mean ± SE) was 30% ± 4% versus 19% ± 3%, respectively (P = .04). The 5-year EFS (42% ± 5% v 31% ± 5%) from the time of second random assignment was higher for cis-RA than for no further therapy, though it was not significant. The 5-year overall survival (OS) from the second random assignment of patients who underwent both random assignments and who were assigned to ABMT/cis-RA was 59% ± 8%; for ABMT/no cis-RA, it was 41% ± 7%; for continuing chemotherapy/cis-RA, it was 38% ± 7%; and for chemotherapy/no cis-RA, it was 36% ± 7%.

Conclusion

Myeloablative therapy and autologous hematopoietic cell rescue result in significantly better 5-year EFS than nonmyeloablative chemotherapy; neither myeloablative therapy with autologous hematopoietic cell rescue nor cis-RA given after consolidation therapy significantly improved OS.
Overall Genomic Pattern Is a Predictor of Outcome in Neuroblastoma
Authors: Janoueix-Lerosey Isabelle , Schleiermacher Gudrun , Michels Evi , Mosseri Véronique , Ribeiro Agnès , Lequin Delphine , Vermeulen Joëlle , Couturier Jérôme , Peuchmaur Michel , Valent Alexander , Plantaz Dominique , Rubie Hervé , Valteau-Couanet Dominique , Thomas Caroline , Combaret Valérie , Rousseau Raphaël , Eggert Angelika , Michon Jean , Speleman Frank , Delattre Olivier
Published: January 2009

Purpose

For a comprehensive overview of the genetic alterations of neuroblastoma, their association and clinical significance, we conducted a whole-genome DNA copy number analysis.

Patients and Methods

A series of 493 neuroblastoma (NB) samples was investigated by array-based comparative genomic hybridization in two consecutive steps (224, then 269 patients).

Results

Genomic analysis identified several types of profiles. Tumors presenting exclusively whole-chromosome copy number variations were associated with excellent survival. No disease-related death was observed in this group. In contrast, tumors with any type of segmental chromosome alterations characterized patients with a high risk of relapse. Patients with both numerical and segmental abnormalities clearly shared the higher risk of relapse of segmental-only patients. In a multivariate analysis, taking into account the genomic profile, but also previously described individual genetic and clinical markers with prognostic significance, the presence of segmental alterations with (HR, 7.3; 95% CI, 3.7 to 14.5; P < .001) or without MYCN amplification (HR, 4.5; 95% CI, 2.4 to 8.4; P < .001) was the strongest predictor of relapse; the other significant variables were age older than 18 months (HR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.2 to 2.8; P = .004) and stage 4 (HR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.2 to 2.7; P = .005). Finally, within tumors showing segmental alterations, stage 4, age, MYCN amplification, 1p and 11q deletions, and 1q gain were independent predictors of decreased overall survival.

Conclusion

The analysis of the overall genomic pattern, which probably unravels particular genomic instability mechanisms rather than the analysis of individual markers, is essential to predict relapse in NB patients. It adds critical prognostic information to conventional markers and should be included in future treatment stratification.
Effect of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery on the Sex Steroids and Quality of Life in Obese Men
Authors: Hammoud Ahmad , Gibson Mark , Hunt Steven C. , Adams Ted D. , Carrell Douglass T. , Kolotkin Ronette L. , Meikle A. Wayne
Published: January 2009

Context: The effect of bariatric surgery on the reproductive function of obese men is not entirely elucidated.

Objective: The aim of the study was to define the effect of Roux-En-Y gastric bypass surgery on the reproductive hormones and sexual function in obese men.

Design and Setting: The cohort was followed for 2 yr at a clinical research center.

Patients: Sixty-four severely obese men (22 who had gastric bypass surgery and 42 controls) participated in the study.

Intervention(s): Anthropometrics [weight, body mass index (BMI), and percentage body fat] and reproductive hormones were measured. The sexual quality of life was assessed using the Impact of Weight on the Quality Of Life-Lite questionnaire.

Main Outcome Measure(s): Reproductive hormones and sexual quality of life were measured.

Results: The mean age was 48.9 ± 1.2 yr. At baseline, mean weight was 333.0 ± 7.1 lb, BMI was 46.2 ± 0.9 kg/m2, and total testosterone was 339.9 ± 21.32 ng/dl. BMI correlated positively with estradiol and negatively with total and free testosterone. Indices of dissatisfaction with sexual quality of life correlated positively with measures of obesity. Difficult sexual performance and low sexual desire correlated negatively with free and total testosterone (r = −0.273, P = 0.038; and r = −0.267, P = 0.042, respectively). After 2 yr, the gastric bypass surgery group had a significant decrease in BMI (−16.6 ± 1.2 vs. −0.46 ± 0.51 kg/m2) and estradiol (−8.1 ± 2.4 vs. 1.6 ± 1.4 pg/ml) and had an increase in total testosterone (310.8 ± 47.6 vs. 14.2 ± 15.3 ng/dl) and free testosterone (45.2 ± 5.1 vs. −0.4 ± 3.0 pg/ml). Sexual quality of life was improved after gastric bypass surgery.

Conclusion: Hormonal alterations and diminished sexual quality of life among obese men are related to degree of obesity, and both are improved after gastric bypass surgery.
Two-Dimensional Correlation Analysis of near Infrared Spectral Intensity Variations of Ground Wheat
Authors: Liu Yongliang , Delwiche Stephen R. , Graybosch Robert A.
Published: January 2009

Generalised two-dimensional (2D) correlation analysis was applied to characterise the NIR spectral intensity fluctuations among many spectra of ground wheat with multi-variable variations. Prior to 2D analysis, the spectra having neighbouring protein reference values were averaged and then the new spectral set was subjected to principal component analysis for cluster classification. This was repeated for sodium dodecyl sulphate sedimentation (SDSS) volume. Synchronous and asynchronous 2D correlation spectra enhanced spectral resolution and provided information about protein content- and SDSS index-dependent intensity changes not readily accessible from one-dimensional NIR spectra of wheat. The results revealed remarkable differences between the protein content- and SDSS index-induced NIR spectral response. Of interest were several unique protein bands around 1980 nm, 2040 nm, 2200 nm, 2260 nm and 2350 nm in high protein and SDSS wheat. At least one of these bands could be associated with gluten protein (a complex formed primarily from gliadin and glutenin) that influences the end-use quality of wheat flour.
Partial Least Square Regression with Variable-Bagged Model Ensemble
Authors: Pi Fuwei , Shinzawa Hideyuki , Wang Jiahua , Han Donghai , Ozaki Yukihiro
Published: January 2009

A new bagging strategy, called variable-bagging, for partial least square (PLS) modelling is proposed. Variable-bagging is to bootstrap a set of spectral variables for each modelling process. Namely, Variable-bagged PLS (VBPLS) can be viewed as an ensemble of multiple PLS models built with bootstrapped molecular structure features of the analytes, for example, wavenumber. It can condense information from spectral variables broadly distributed in the wavenumber dimension and truncate the contribution of non-informative variables such as interference or simple noise. Thus, it potentially has an advantage to yield superior regression performance to conventional PLS which is based on a single model. The performance of VBPLS is demonstrated for the determination of Brix values with a set of NIR spectra collected from apples. The comparisons with other PLS techniques reveal that VBPLS yields superior regression performance, in terms of both prediction error and robustness, to conventional PLS, even with the optimal number of latent variables. Namely, VBPLS models can describe more reasonable relationships between the NIR spectra and corresponding Brix values.
Predicting Methanol and Glycerol Concentrations in Microbial Treated Wastewater Discharged from a Biodiesel Fuel Production Process Using near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Kawai Shingo , Kohda Jiro , Nakano Yasuhisa , Yano Takuo
Published: January 2009

Microbiological treatment of wastewater discharged from purification processes of biodiesel fuel (BDF) produced from waste edible oil with alkaline catalyst was carried out in a 3L jar-fermentor. Wastewater treatment was started by the addition of the seed culture of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa HCU-1 to the medium prepared from oil-removed wastewater. Methanol and glycerol concentrations in the wastewater were predicted simultaneously using near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. The wastewater containing the microorganism cells in a 1 mm light path length cuvette was placed in an NIR spectrophotometer and the absorbance at wavelengths between 400 nm and 2500 nm was measured at 2 nm intervals. Simple or multiple linear regression analysis was used to obtain calibration equations relating to the NIR spectral data and the content of a calibration sample set ( n=66) obtained by the conventional methods. The wavelengths at 2264 nm, and 2274 nm and 2256 nm were selected to make calibration equations for methanol and glycerol, respectively. Prediction of methanol and glycerol contents ( n=45) was successfully carried out using NIR spectroscopy with r2=0.996 and SEP=0.637 gL−1 and r2=0.996 and SEP=0.31 gL−1 respectively.
Systematic Review of Early Intensive Behavioral Interventions for Children With Autism
Authors: Howlin Patricia , Magiati Iliana , Charman Tony
Published: January 2009

Recent reviews highlight limitations in the evidence base for early interventions for children with autism. We conducted a systematic review of controlled studies of early intensive behavioral interventions (EIBI) for young children with autism. Eleven studies met inclusion criteria (including two randomized controlled trials). At group level, EIBI resulted in improved outcomes (primarily measured by IQ) compared to comparison groups. At an individual level, however, there was considerable variability in outcome, with some evidence that initial IQ (but not age) was related to progress. This review provides evidence for the effectiveness of EIBI for some, but not all, preschool children with autism.
Gender Differences in Psychiatric Diagnoses Among Inpatients With And Without Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Lunsky Yona , Bradley Elspeth A. , Gracey Carolyn D. , Durbin Janet , Koegl Chris
Published: January 2009

There are few published studies on the relationship between gender and psychiatric disorders in individuals with intellectual disabilities. Adults (N = 1,971) with and without intellectual disabilities who received inpatient services for psychiatric diagnosis and clinical issues were examined. Among individuals with intellectual disabilities, women were more likely to have a diagnosis of mood disorder and sexual abuse history; men were more likely to have a substance abuse diagnosis, legal issues, and past destructive behavior. Gender difference patterns found for individuals with intellectual disabilities were similar to those of persons without intellectual disabilities, with the exception of eating disorder and psychotic disorder diagnoses. Gender issues should receive greater attention in intellectual disabilities inpatient care.
Building the Case for Brief Psychointerventions in the Treatment of Specific Phobias in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Flatt Natalie , King Neville
Published: January 2009

Specific phobias are one of the most prevalent childhood anxiety disorders. Research suggests that phobias in children, such as animal or situational phobias, lead to significant impairments in peer relations, social and academic competence. Hence it is imperative to treat phobias within children and adolescents early to avoid more serious, engrained symptoms later in the lifespan. This review focuses on traditional exposure-based cognitive–behavioural therapies, and the more recent one-session exposure therapy for phobia treatment (Ost, 1987), a procedure that has only begun to be administered to children. Further, controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of 1-session exposure therapy with phobic children are urgently required. We also address challenges for researchers using psycho-education to control nonspecific treatment effects.
Cognitive Behavioural Treatment of Perfectionism: A Single Case Experimental Design Series
Authors: Egan Sarah J. , Hine Paula
Published: January 2009

Perfectionism can maintain depression, anxiety and eating disorders, yet few studies have evaluated treatments for perfectionism. This study examined the effectiveness of individual cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) in treating perfectionism in four adults with a diagnosis of either an anxiety disorder or depression. The study used an A-B single case experimental design series with follow-up, and a 3-week pre- and postbaseline phase. Treatment involved 8 sessions and a 2-week follow-up session. Visual inspection of data revealed downward trends in overall perfectionism and clinically significant decreases in perfectionism for two participants. No clinically significant reductions were observed in depressive or anxious symptomatology. CBT for perfectionism warrants further investigation.
Role of Ionotropic Glutamate Receptors in Long-Term Potentiation in Rat Hippocampal CA1 Oriens-Lacunosum Moleculare Interneurons
Authors: Oren Iris , Nissen Wiebke , Kullmann Dimitri M. , Somogyi Peter , Lamsa Karri P.
Published: January 2009

Some interneurons of the hippocampus exhibit NMDA receptor-independent long-term potentiation (LTP) that is induced by presynaptic glutamate release when the postsynaptic membrane potential is hyperpolarized. This “anti-Hebbian” form of LTP is prevented by postsynaptic depolarization or by blocking AMPA and kainate receptors. Although both AMPA and kainate receptors are expressed in hippocampal interneurons, their relative roles in anti-Hebbian LTP are not known. Because interneuron diversity potentially conceals simple rules underlying different forms of plasticity, we focus on glutamatergic synapses onto a subset of interneurons with dendrites in stratum oriens and a main ascending axon that projects to stratum lacunosum moleculare, the oriens-lacunosum moleculare (O-LM) cells. We show that anti-Hebbian LTP in O-LM interneurons has consistent induction and expression properties, and is prevented by selective inhibition of AMPA receptors. The majority of the ionotropic glutamatergic synaptic current in these cells is mediated by inwardly rectifying Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors. Although GluR5-containing kainate receptors contribute to synaptic currents at high stimulus frequency, they are not required for LTP induction. Glutamatergic synapses on O-LM cells thus behave in a homogeneous manner and exhibit LTP dependent on Ca2+-permeable AMPA receptors.
Inhibition of Monoamine Oxidases Desensitizes 5-HT1AAutoreceptors and Allows Nicotine to Induce a Neurochemical and Behavioral Sensitization
Authors: Lanteri Christophe , Hernández Vallejo Sandra Jimena , Salomon Lucas , Doucet Emilie Lucie , Godeheu Gérard , Torrens Yvette , Houades Vanessa , Tassin Jean-Pol
Published: January 2009

Although nicotine is generally considered to be the main compound responsible for addictive properties of tobacco, experimental data indicate that nicotine does not exhibit all the characteristics of other substances of abuse. We recently showed that a pretreatment with mixed irreversible monoamine oxidases inhibitors (MAOIs), such as tranylcypromine, triggers a locomotor response to nicotine in mice and allows maintenance of behavioral sensitization to nicotine in rats. Moreover, we showed by microdialysis in mice that behavioral sensitization induced by compounds belonging to main groups of drugs of abuse, such as amphetamine, cocaine, morphine, or alcohol, was underlain by sensitization of noradrenergic and serotonergic neurons. Here, this neurochemical sensitization was tested after nicotine, tranylcypromine, or a mixture of both compounds. Data indicate that, whereas neither repeated nicotine nor repeated tranylcypromine alone has any effect by itself, a repeated treatment with a mixture of nicotine and tranylcypromine induces both behavioral sensitization and sensitization of noradrenergic and serotonergic neurons. The development of neurochemical and behavioral sensitizations is blocked by prazosin and SR46349B [(1Z,2E)-1-(2-fluoro-phenyl)-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-prop-2-en-one-O-(2-dimethylamino-ethyl)-oxime hemifumarate], two antagonists of α1b-adrenergic and 5-HT2Areceptors, respectively, but not by SCH23390 [R(+)-7-chloro-8-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-phenyl-2,3,4,5-tetrahydro-1H-3-benzazepine hydrochloride], a D1receptor antagonist. Finally, we found that pretreatments with WAY 100635 [N-[2-[4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]ethyl]-N-(2-pyridinyl)cyclo-hexane carboxamide trihydrochloride], a 5-HT1Areceptor antagonist, can also induce a behavioral and neurochemical sensitization to repeated nicotine. Complementary experiments with 8-OHDPAT (8-hydroxy-dipropylamino-tetralin), a 5-HT1Areceptor agonist, and analysis of 5-HT1Areceptors expression in the dorsal raphe nucleus after a tranylcypromine injection indicate that MAOIs contained in tobacco desensitize 5-HT1Aautoreceptors to trigger the strong addictive properties of tobacco.
Appetitive and Aversive Taste Conditioning in a Computer Game Influences Real-World Decision Making and Subsequent Activation in Insular Cortex
Authors: McCabe Jonathan A. , Tobler Phillipe N. , Schultz Wolfram , Dickinson Anthony , Lupson Victoria , Fletcher Paul C.
Published: January 2009

At the request of the authors, this manuscript has been retracted.