bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pilot Study on the Impact of Biogas as a Fuel Source on Respiratory Health of Women on Rural Kenyan Smallholder Dairy Farms
Authors: Dohoo Carolyn , Guernsey Judith Read , Critchley Kimberley , VanLeeuwen John
Published: August 2012

Biomass burning in indoor environments has been highlighted as a major cause of respiratory morbidity for women and children in low-income countries. Inexpensive technological innovations which reduce such exposures are needed. This study evaluated the impact of low tech compost digesters, which generate biogas for cooking, versus traditional fuel sources on the respiratory health of nonsmoking Kenyan farmwomen. Women from 31 farms with biogas digesters were compared to age-matched women from 31 biomass-reliant farms, in June 2010. Only 43% of the biogas group reported any breathing problems, compared to 71% in the referent group (P=0.03). Referent women self-reported higher rates of shortness of breath (52% versus 30%), difficulty breathing (42% versus 23%), and chest pain while breathing (35% versus 17%) during the last 6 months (P=0.09to 0.12) compared to biogas women. Biogas women demonstrated slightly better spirometry results but differences were not statistically significant, likely due to limited latency between biogas digester installation and spirometry testing. Most biogas women reported improved personal respiratory health (87%) and improved children’s health (72%) since biogas digester installation. These findings suggest that using biogas in cookhouses improves respiratory symptoms but long-term impacts on lung function are unclear.
Current Challenges in Development of Differentially Expressed and Prognostic Prostate Cancer Biomarkers
Authors: Lucas Steven M. , Heath Elisabeth I.
Published: August 2012

Introduction. Predicting the aggressiveness of prostate cancer at biopsy is invaluable in making treatment decisions. In this paper we review the differential expression of genes and microRNAs identified through microarray analysis as potentially useful markers for prostate cancer prognosis and discuss some of the challenges associated with their development.Methods. A review of the literature was conducted through Medline. Articles were identified through searches of the following terms: “prostate cancer AND differential expression”, “prostate cancer prognosis”, and “prostate cancer AND microRNAs”.Results. Though numerous differentially expressed genes and microRNAs were identified as possible prognostic markers, the significance of several of these genes is either debated due to conflicting results or is not validated in other study populations. A few of the articles constructed predictive nomograms using a panel of biomarkers which require further validation. Challenges to the development of useful markers include different methodology, cancer heterogeneity, and sampling error. These can be overcome by categorizing prognostic factors into particular gene pathways or by supplementing biopsy information with blood or urine-based biomarkers.Conclusion. Though biomarkers based on differential expression offer the potential to improve decision making concerning prostate cancer, further validation of their utility and accuracy at the biopsy level is needed.
Retroperitoneal Fibrosis: A Rare Cause of Acute Renal Failure
Authors: Ezimora Amaka , Faulkner Marquetta L. , Adebiyi Oluwafisayo , Ogungbemile Abimbola , Marianna Salas-Vega , Nzerue Chike
Published: August 2012

Introduction. Retroperitoneal fibrosis is a rare cause of acute renal failure (ARF) with only a handful of cases reported in literature. We report a case of a 40-year-old male with an incidental finding of retroperitoneal fibrosis.Case Presentation. Patient is a 40-year-old African American male with no significant past medical history who presented with a four-month history of low back pain and associated nausea with vomiting. Physical examination was significant for elevated blood pressure at 169/107 mmhg and bilateral pedal edema. Significant admission laboratory include blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 108 mg/dL, serum creatinine (Cr) of 23 mg/dL, bicarbonate of 19 mg/dL, and potassium of 6.2 mmL/L. Renal ultrasound showed bilateral hydronephrosis. Post-void residual urine volume was normal. Abdominopelvic CT scan showed retroperitoneal fibrosis confirmed with fine-needle biopsy. He was treated with a combination of bilateral ureteral stent placement, hemodialysis, and steroid therapy. Four months after hospital discharge, his BUN and Cr levels Improved to 18 mg/dL and 1.25 mg/dL, respectively.Conclusion. Retroperitoneal fibrosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients with acute renal failure and obstructive uropathy. Abdominal CT scan is the examination of choice for diagnosis. Full resolution with treatment depends on the duration of obstruction.
Direct‐Write Drawing of Carbon Nanotube/Polymer Composite Microfibers
Authors: Berry Scott M. , Pabba Santosh , Cohn Robert W. , Keynton Robert S.
Published: August 2012

Carbon‐nanotube‐ (CNT‐) doped polymer solutions were drawn into arrays of microfibers using a novel direct‐write process. This process utilizes a micromanipulator‐controlled syringe loaded with solvated polymer mixed with CNTs to “write” networks of composite fibers with precisely positioned endpoints. The diameters of these composite fibers are correlated to the degree of capillary thinning that occurs prior to the solidification of the directly written CNT‐doped solution filament. The fibers had diameters ranging from 7 μm to over 100 μm and possessed conductivities as high as 0.1 Sm−1. Fiber diameter was found to increase with increasing polymer concentration and decreasing fiber length and can be controlled through modulation of these parameters. The presence of CNTs was found not to significantly affect fiber diameter, despite the CNTs significant effect on viscosity, which was previously reported to influence diameter. This discrepancy is likely related to the non‐Newtonian effects of CNT/polymer solutions, including an apparent shear thinning at increasing axial strain rates.
Ultrafine Magnetite Nanopowder: Synthesis, Characterization, and Preliminary Use as Filler of Polymethylmethacrylate Nanocomposites
Authors: Russo Pietro , Acierno Domenico , Palomba Mariano , Carotenuto Gianfranco , Rosa Roberto , Rizzuti Antonino , Leonelli Cristina
Published: August 2012

Magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles prepared by microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis have been characterized in terms of morphological and structural features. Electron micrographs collected in both scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM) modes and evaluations of X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) patterns have indicated the achievement of a monodispersed crystallite structure with particles having an average size around 15–20 nm. Structural investigations by Micro-Raman spectroscopy highlighted the obtainment of magnetite nanocrystals with a partial surface oxidation to maghemite (γ-Fe3O4). Preliminary attention has been also paid to the use of these magnetite nanoparticles as filler for a commercial polymethylmethacrylate resin. Hybrid formulations containing up to 3 wt% of nanoparticles were prepared by melt blending and characterized by calorimetric and thermogravimetric tests. For sake of comparison, same formulations containing commercial Fe3O4nanoparticles are also reported. Calorimetric characterization indicates an increase of both glass transition temperature and thermal stability of the nanocomposite systems when loaded with the synthesized magnetite nanoparticles rather then loaded with the same amount of commercial Fe3O4. This first observation represents just one aspect of the promising potentiality offered by the novel magnetic nanoparticles when mixed with PMMA.
Perceptions of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners and How a Pulmonary Function Printout Influenced Practice
Authors: Gresko Susan , Dowdell Elizabeth Burgess
Published: August 2012

The rate of asthma in the pediatric population has risen over the last two decades and is now considered to be the most common serious chronic disease in children and adolescents as well as a serious public health concern. In one suburban, Pennsylvania nurse-managed clinic, a group of pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs), noted an increase in the number of children with asthma and purchased a pulmonary function machine (Spirometer). The purpose of this paper is to discuss how the integration of a pulmonary function measurement printout influenced a small group of PNPs visit satisfaction, their delivery of nursing care, and the response of the families. As the incidence of asthma increases in the pediatric population, nurse practitioners and other healthcare professionals can take a leading role in patient teaching and provision of care by augmenting their practice with new technology combined with continued education for the client and family.
Morphological Variation ofSordellina punctata(Peters, 1880) with Notes on the Phylogenetic Position of the Genus within the Family Dipsadidae (Serpentes)
Authors: Miranda Bruno Henrique V. , Fernandes Daniel Silva
Published: August 2012

Sordellina punctata(Peters, 1880) is a poorly known species from Brazil that, until recently, had an uncertain phylogenetic position. Sixty-one specimens ofSordellina punctatawere examined, representing different localities encompassing the known geographic distribution of this taxon. Eight skulls and five hemipenes were prepared and described in detail and data on scale variation and color pattern as well as morphometric data were analyzed. The skull bones described, as well as the hemipenis ofS. punctata, were compared to available data in the literature referred to members of the tribe Echinanterini and related taxa.Sordellina punctatapresents an average snout-vent length of 31.5 cm for males and 40.2 for females and has an average of 149 ventral scales in males and 157 in females. The data presented here reinforce the necessity of a greater amount of osteological descriptive studies, especially of members of the tribe Echinanterini, in order to evaluate the recently proposed hypothesis of relationship ofS. punctataand these taxa.
Power Transformer Differential Protection Based on Neural Network Principal Component Analysis, Harmonic Restraint and Park's Plots
Authors: Tripathy Manoj
Published: August 2012

This paper describes a new approach for power transformer differential protection which is based on the wave-shape recognition technique. An algorithm based on neural network principal component analysis (NNPCA) with back-propagation learning is proposed for digital differential protection of power transformer. The principal component analysis is used to preprocess the data from power system in order to eliminate redundant information and enhance hidden pattern of differential current to discriminate between internal faults from inrush and overexcitation conditions. This algorithm has been developed by considering optimal number of neurons in hidden layer and optimal number of neurons at output layer. The proposed algorithm makes use of ratio of voltage to frequency and amplitude of differential current for transformer operating condition detection. This paper presents a comparative study of power transformer differential protection algorithms based on harmonic restraint method, NNPCA, feed forward back propagation neural network (FFBPNN), space vector analysis of the differential signal, and their time characteristic shapes in Park’s plane. The algorithms are compared as to their speed of response, computational burden, and the capability to distinguish between a magnetizing inrush and power transformer internal fault. The mathematical basis for each algorithm is briefly described. All the algorithms are evaluated using simulation performed with PSCAD/EMTDC and MATLAB.
Complete Assignment ofH1andC13NMR Spectra of 1,2,4-Trisubstituted Pyrroles
Authors: Anselmi Elsa , Abarbri Mohamed , Duchêne Alain , Lamandé-Langle Sandrine , Thibonnet Jérôme
Published: August 2012

1,2,4-Trisubstituted pyrroles were synthesized with an original one-pot domino allylic amination/palladium-catalysed Sonogashira cross-coupling and heterocyclisation process.1H and13C NMR spectra were assigned for twelve new compounds containing different substituents in positions 1 and 2, and a carboxylic acid or ester group in position 4. Each assignment was based on the combination of one, and two-dimensional experiments (APT, COSY, HMBC).
A New Method for Synthesis of Poly(2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene oxide) and Poly(2,6‐diphenyl‐1,4‐phenyl oxide)
Authors: Al Andis Naser M.
Published: August 2012

The polymerization of two monomers 2,6‐dimethylphenol and 2,6‐diphenylphenol was carried out by an oxidative route in the presence of Cu(I) as a catalyst and amine complex as a solvent assisted by microwave heating. The synthesized polymers were characterized by NMR spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and gel permeation chromatography (GPC). It was observed that this process of polymerization gives high yield (98 wt%) of poly(2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene oxide) (PPO) and poly(2,6‐diphenyl‐1,4‐phenylene oxide) (PPPO) with a molar mass of 1180 (), 1400 () and 28000 (), 46500 () gm/mol, respectively. A negligible amount of diphenoquinone was also observed and its dispersity was rather moderate, 1.17 and 1.68, respectively.
CD24 Is an Effector of HIF-1–Driven Primary Tumor Growth and Metastasis
Authors: Thomas Shibu , Harding Michael A. , Smith Steven C. , Overdevest Jonathan B. , Nitz Matthew D. , Frierson Henry F. , Tomlins Scott A. , Kristiansen Glen , Theodorescu Dan
Published: August 2012

Hypoxia drives malignant progression in part by promoting accumulation of the oncogenic transcription factor hypoxia inducible factor–1α (HIF-1α) in tumor cells. Tumor aggressiveness also relates to elevation of the cancer stem cell–associated membrane protein CD24, which has been causally implicated in tumor formation and metastasis in experimental models. Here, we link these two elements by showing that hypoxia induces CD24 expression through a functional hypoxia responsive element in the CD24 promoter. HIF-1α overexpression induced CD24 mRNA and protein under normoxic conditions, with this effect traced to a recruitment of endogenous HIF-1α to the CD24 promoter. Short hairpin RNA–mediated attenuation of HIF-1α or CD24 expression reduced cancer cell survival in vitro and in vivo at the levels of primary and metastatic tumor growth. CD24 overexpression in HIF-1α–depleted cancer cells rescued this decrease, whereas HIF-1α overexpression in CD24-depleted cells did not. Analysis of clinical tumor specimens revealed a correlation between HIF-1α and CD24 levels and an association of their coexpression to decreased patient survival. Our results establish a mechanistic linkage between 2 critically important molecules in cancer, identifying CD24 as a critical HIF-1α transcriptional target and biologic effector, strengthening the rationale to target CD24 for cancer therapy. Cancer Res; 72(21); 5600–12. ©2012 AACR.
Multilevel Whole-Genome Analysis Reveals Candidate Biomarkers in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Girgis Andrew H. , Iakovlev Vladimir V. , Beheshti Ben , Bayani Jane , Squire Jeremy A. , Bui Anna , Mankaruos Marina , Youssef Youssef , Khalil Bishoy , Khella Heba , Pasic Maria , Yousef George M.
Published: August 2012

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common neoplasm of the kidney. We conducted an integrated analysis of copy number, gene expression (mRNA and miRNA), protein expression, and methylation changes in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). We used a stepwise approach to identify the most significant copy number aberrations (CNA) and identified regions of peak and broad copy number gain and loss, including peak gains (3q21, 5q32, 5q34-q35, 7p11, 7q21, 8q24, 11q13, and 12q14) and deletions (1p36, 2q34-q37, 3p25, 4q33-q35, 6q23-q27, and 9p21). These regions harbor novel tumor-related genes and miRNAs not previously reported in renal carcinoma. Integration of genome-wide expression data and gene set enrichment analysis revealed 75 gene sets significantly altered in tumors with CNAs compared with tumors without aberration. We also identified genes located in peak CNAs with concordant methylation changes (hypomethylated in copy number gains such as STC2 and CCND1 and hypermethylated in deletions such as CLCNKB, VHL, and CDKN2A/2B). For other genes, such as CA9, expression represents the net outcome of opposing forces (deletion and hypomethylation) that also significantly influences patient survival. We also validated the prognostic value of miRNA let-7i in RCCs. miR-138, located in chromosome 3p deletion, was also found to have suppressive effects on tumor proliferation and migration abilities. Our findings provide a significant advance in the delineation of the ccRCC genome by better defining the impact of CNAs in conjunction with methylation changes on the expression of cancer-related genes, miRNAs, and proteins and their influence on patient survival. Cancer Res; 72(20); 5273–84. ©2012 AACR.
Natural Product Triptolide Mediates Cancer Cell Death by Triggering CDK7-Dependent Degradation of RNA Polymerase II
Authors: Manzo Stefano Giustino , Zhou Zhao-Li , Wang Ying-Qing , Marinello Jessica , He Jin-Xue , Li Yuan-Chao , Ding Jian , Capranico Giovanni , Miao Ze-Hong
Published: August 2012

Triptolide is a bioactive ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine that exhibits diverse biologic properties, including anticancer properties. Among its many putative targets, this compound has been reported to bind to XPB, the largest subunit of general transcription factor TFIIH, and to cause degradation of the largest subunit Rpb1 of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII). In this study, we clarify multiple important questions concerning the significance and basis for triptolide action at this core target. Triptolide decreased Rpb1 levels in cancer cells in a manner that was correlated tightly with its cytotoxic activity. Compound exposure blocked RNAPII at promoters and decreased chromatin-bound RNAPII, both upstream and within all genes that were examined, also leading to Ser-5 hyperphosphorylation and increased ubiqutination within the Rbp1 carboxy-terminal domain. Notably, cotreatment with inhibitors of the proteasome or the cyclin-dependent kinase CDK7 inhibitors abolished the ability of triptolide to ablate Rpb1. Together, our results show that triptolide triggers a CDK7-mediated degradation of RNAPII that may offer an explanation to many of its therapeutic properties, including its robust and promising anticancer properties. Cancer Res; 72(20); 5363–73. ©2012 AACR.
A Pilot Study of Low-Cost, High-Resolution Microendoscopy as a Tool for Identifying Women with Cervical Precancer
Authors: Pierce Mark C. , Guan YaoYao , Quinn Mary Kate , Zhang Xun , Zhang Wen-Hua , Qiao You-Lin , Castle Philip , Richards-Kortum Rebecca
Published: August 2012

Cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of death among women in developing countries. Without resources to support Pap smear cytology and colposcopy, cost-effective approaches which enable single-visit “see-and-treat” protocols offer the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality due to this preventable disease. We carried out a pilot clinical study in Shanxi province, China, to evaluate a low-cost, high-resolution microendoscope (HRME) imaging system which enables evaluation of epithelial cell morphology in vivo. HRME images were obtained at discrete sites on the cervix in 174 women, in addition to visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and colposcopic examination. Of 69 sites appearing abnormal on colposcopy, only 12 showed high-grade disease (CIN2+) on pathology. Quantification of the nuclear-to-cytoplasm ratio by HRME enabled an ad hoc threshold to be defined, which correctly classified all 12 sites as abnormal, whilst classifying 38 of the remaining 57 pathology normal sites as normal. All patients with biopsy confirmed high-grade disease also tested positive for high-risk human papilloma virus (HPV) DNA and were classified as abnormal by HRME. Among the remaining patients who tested positive for HPV but were either normal by colposcopy or showed <CIN2 on pathology, only 6 of 32 (18.8%) were classified as abnormal by HRME.

Visual examination techniques for cervical cancer screening may overestimate the prevalence of precancerous lesions, leading to unnecessary treatment, expense, and patient stress. The results of this study suggest that evaluation of suspicious lesions by HRME may assist in ruling out immediate cryotherapy, thus increasing the efficiency of current see-and-treat programs. Cancer Prev Res; 5(11); 1273–9. ©2012 AACR.
Success and Failure of Virus-Specific T Cell Responses in Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Neumann-Haefelin Christoph , Thimme Robert
Published: August 2012

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is only cleared in a minority of infected individuals, the majority of patients develop chronic infection. Chronic HCV infection potentially leads to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis and finally hepatocellular carcinoma. The host immune response is an important determinant in the outcome of HCV infection. Innate as well as adaptive cellular and humoral immune responses mediate important antiviral actions; however, virus-specific T cell responses appear to be most critical. Indeed, strong and multispecific CD4+ as well as CD8+ T cell responses are required for viral clearance. Interestingly, individuals who express certain HLA alleles (which are important for antigen presentation to CD4+ and CD8+ T cells) have a higher chance to clear the virus. The mechanisms of protection by HLA class I alleles such as HLA-B27 have been characterized recently. In most individuals, however, the HCV-specific immune response fails to clear the virus. Several mechanisms underlying this HCV-specific T cell failure have been identified. These include viral factors such as viral escape mutations and immunological factors such as the expression of inhibitory receptors, which lead to CD8+ T cell dysfunction. An in-depth understanding of the determinants of success or failure of the HCV-specific T cell response is critical for the development of prophylactic as well as therapeutic vaccination regimes against HCV. Here, we will discuss the virological and immunological determinants of HCV clearance and persistence.
Reduced Blood Alcohol Concentration in Suicide Victims in Response to a New National Alcohol Policy in Slovenia
Authors: Zupanc Tomaž , Agius Mark , Videtič Paska Alja , Pregelj Peter
Published: August 2012

Background: Addiction is a major social and health problem. Studies on suicide and alcohol at the individual and aggregated level have confirmed a link between alcohol and suicide. Aim: To assess the impact of the new national alcohol policy in Slovenia on the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in BAC-positive suicide victims before, during and after the implementation of the new national alcohol policy in 2003. Method: Blood samples were collected by forensic pathologists during medicolegal autopsies of suicide victims in order to establish their BAC levels at the time of death. BAC was measured using two routine independent headspace gas chromatography methods (HSS-GC-FID) and expressed in grams per kilogram. Results: During the period before the implementation of the act which limited the availability of alcohol in Slovenia, the BACs of BAC-positive suicide victims were higher than those tested in the period after the implementation of the act. Conclusion: Despite certain limitations, this study demonstrates that legislation measures restricting alcohol availability may be an effective measure of BAC reduction in BAC-positive suicide victims.
The Impact of Rotigotine on Cardiovascular Autonomic Function in Early Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Rocchi Camilla , Pierantozzi Mariangela , Pisani Valerio , Marfia Girolama Alessandra , Di Giorgio Alessandra , Stanzione Paolo , Bernardi Giorgio , Stefani Alessandro
Published: August 2012

Dysautonomia can occur in early stages of Parkinson’s disease (PD) influencing tolerance to dopaminergic therapies. Rotigotine, a non-ergot dopamine agonist, has recently been developed as an effective alternative antiparkinsonian drug, but its influence on the autonomic nervous system was not investigated. Twenty subjects out of 34 consecutive de novo PD patients were submitted to full assessment of cardiovascular autonomic function before and after reaching a stable rotigotine regimen [6 mg/24 h (n = 3) or 8 mg/24 h (n = 17)]. Patients reached significant clinical improvement (–27% on the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale part III) and did not show significant differences in cardiovascular tests compared to baseline data. However, an unexpected trend towards increasing systolic blood pressure after head-up tilt test was detected. Our study demonstrates that rotigotine does not influence cardiovascular autonomic responses in early de novo PD patients. Consequently, it may represent a well-tolerated and efficacious therapeutic option in newly diagnosed PD subjects.
Affective Decision-Making Is Predictive of Three-Month Relapse in Polysubstance-Dependent Alcoholics
Authors: De Wilde Bieke , Verdejo-García Antonio , Sabbe Bernard , Hulstijn Wouter , Dom Geert
Published: August 2012

Background/Aims: Common and long-lasting deficits in decision-making in polysubstance-dependent alcoholics (PSA) reflect neurobiological alterations that define the chronic nature of addiction. These deficits affect goal-directed behavior and might be critical risk factors predicting relapse in PSA. Methods: The Delay Discounting Task (DDT) and the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) assessed the delay-discounting and decision-making skills among 37 abstinent PSA. Results: The findings indicated that IGT but not DDT performances were associated with 3-month abstinence, irrespective of the influence of personality traits and coexistent medications. Conclusion: The results show that the IGT, which assesses processes that are important in the latter stages of addiction, is ecologically more valid compared to the DDT, which assesses processes important in the early stages. They underline the importance of using neurocognitive measures to identify high relapse risk patients and emphasize the relevance of promoting new treatments.
Gender and Rapid Alterations of Hemispheric Dominance during Planning
Authors: Schuepbach Daniel , Skotchko Tatjana , Duschek Stefan , Theodoridou Anastasia , Grimm Simone , Boeker Heinz , Seifritz Erich
Published: August 2012

Background: Mental planning and carrying out a plan provoke specific cerebral hemodynamic responses. Gender aspects of hemispheric laterality using rapid cerebral hemodynamics have not been reported. Method: Here, we applied functional transcranial Doppler sonography to examine lateralization of cerebral hemodynamics of the middle cerebral arteries of 28 subjects (14 women and 14 men) performing a standard planning task. There were easy and difficult problems, and mental planning without motor activity was separated from movement execution. Results: Difficult mental planning elicited lateralization to the right hemisphere after 2 or more seconds, a feature that was not observed during movement execution. In females, there was a dominance to the left hemisphere during movement execution. Optimized problem solving yielded an increased laterality change to the right during mental planning. Conclusions: Gender-related hemispheric dominance appears to be condition-dependent, and change of laterality to the right may play a role in optimized performance. Results are of relevance when considering laterality from a perspective of performance enhancement of higher cognitive functions, and also of psychiatric disorders with cognitive dysfunctions and abnormal lateralization patterns such as schizophrenia.
Motivation for Change and Barriers to Treatment among Young Cannabis Users
Authors: Fernández-Artamendi S. , Fernández-Hermida J.R. , García-Fernández G. , Secades-Villa R. , García-Rodríguez O.
Published: August 2012

Background/Aims: Despite cannabis use among adolescents has shown to be related to psychosocial and mental health problems, the demand from adolescents for professional help is very low, and determinants of motivation for change among nonclinical populations remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to assess motivation for change among young cannabis users and to identify determinants of intention to change and self-change, as well as perceived barriers to seeking professional help. Methods: 261 cannabis users aged 16–21 participated in a computerized survey in Spain. Results: Data from this cross-sectional study indicated that few users intend to stop taking the drug. Determining factors of intention to change were the following: having more drug-related problems, paranoid symptomatology and greater concern about the consequences of use. Self-change was facilitated by lower use of cannabis, and could be hindered by tobacco smoking and cannabis dependence. Lack of awareness of the problems and the desire to solve one’s problems alone constitute the main barriers to seeking professional help. Conclusions: Adolescent cannabis users show low motivation for change though experiencing more problems associated with its use emerges as a determinant of increased motivation. Several barriers impede this motivation from turning into treatment demand.
Association Analysis of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms of USP24 and USP40 with Parkinson’s Disease in the Han Chinese Population
Authors: Zhao Bi , Song Wei , Chen Yong Ping , Huang Rui , Chen Ke , Cao Bei , Yang Yuan , Shang Hui-Fang
Published: August 2012

Background: The ubiquitin-proteasomal pathway has been found to be involved in the etiology of Parkinson’s disease (PD). Numerous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in both USP24 and USP40 genes have been linked to increased risks of late-onset PD, but the association has not been confirmed in the residents of mainland China, especially the Han population. Methods: We included 378 unrelated Han Chinese PD patients from south west China and 274 unrelated Han Chinese healthy controls from the same region. Multiple SNPs, including rs13312, rs1165226, rs487230, and rs287235 of USP24 and rs1048603 of USP40, were genotyped using Sequenom iPLEX Assay technology. Results: No significant differences in the genotype frequencies and minor allele frequency of all SNPs were observed between the PD and control groups, between the early-onset PD and control groups, between the late-onset PD and control groups, and between the early-onset PD and late-onset PD groups. Conclusion: The present study is the first to report a lack of association between SNPs of USP24 and USP40 and PD in Han Chinese patients. Other association studies with larger numbers of participants are necessary to confirm the present findings.
Orphan Kidney Diseases
Authors: Soliman Neveen A.
Published: August 2012

Rare kidney diseases are a unique subset of renal disorders that are often termed ‘orphan’ as a result of a multitude of reasons: the small number of patients with the consequent lack of well-defined natural history and course of many of these diseases, limited awareness among the medical community, and finally the significant cost of developing novel therapeutics which makes many of these diseases unattractive targets for the pharmaceutical industry. Nevertheless, in the last decade the study and clinical management of rare kidney disease patients has been the focus of many investigative efforts. In recent years we have witnessed an enormous expansion in our knowledge of the genetic nature of a number of rare kidney diseases. Moreover, the investigation of the role of genetic disruption aiming at elucidating the pathogenesis of different and complex renal diseases has helped not only in understanding the disease states, but has also given us fundamental insights into a number of kidney developmental and physiological functions. This article will give an overview of orphan renal diseases with particular emphasis on monogenic kidney diseases. It will also focus on the classification of these diseases while highlighting a prominent example in each category.
Impact of Rapamycin on Peritoneal Fibrosis and Transport Function
Authors: Xu T. , Xie J.Y. , Wang W.M. , Ren H. , Chen N.
Published: August 2012

Objectives: To observe the impact of rapamycin on peritoneal fibrosis and peritoneal transport function in a rat model of peritoneal fibrosis. Methods: A total of 40 male SD rats were randomly divided into five groups, with 8 rats in each group. Group N was the normal control. In group NS, the rats were injected daily with 20 ml of saline intraperitoneally. In groups GLU, L-RAPA and H-RAPA, rats were injected daily with 20 ml of 4.25% peritoneal dialysis solution intraperitoneally, together with 150 µg of lipopolysaccharide on days 1, 3, 5 and 7. Rapamycin was administered to groups L-RAPA (250 µg/day) and H-RAPA (500 µg/day) intragastrically. On days 21 and 35, 4 rats from each group were selected to evaluate their peritoneal transport function (ultrafiltration volume, D2/D₀ ratio). The parietal peritoneal membrane from the rats was used for pathological study. Light microscopy (HE staining and VG staining) was used to assess the morphological changes. The expression levels of Col I, α-SMA, TGF-β1, Reca and Ki67 in the parietal peritoneal membrane were observed by immunohistochemistry. Results: The ultrafiltration volume and D2/D₀ ratio decreased in group GLU compared with group N on day 21 (p < 0.05) and further decreased on day 35 (p < 0.01), whereas such a significant change was not observed in group L-RAPA or H-RAPA. Furthermore, severe loss of the peritoneal mesothelial cells, exposure of the collagen matrix under the mesothelial cells, and infiltration of fibroblasts and various inflammatory cells were detected in group GLU on days 21 and 35. The thickness of the submesothelial compact zone significantly increased in group GLU compared with group N (p < 0.01). However, in groups L-RAPA and H-RAPA, the morphological changes were clearly alleviated, and the submesothelial compact zone was thinner than in group GLU (p < 0.01). The expression levels of Col I, α-SMA, TGF-β1, Ki67 and Reca in the peritoneal membrane were significantly increased in group GLU compared with group N on days 21 and 35 (p < 0.01), whereas these changes were significantly attenuated in groups L-RAPA and H-RAPA compared with group GLU (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Rapamycin had an obvious effect in inhibiting peritoneal fibrosis and improving peritoneal membrane transport function.
Seeing and Liking Cigarette Advertisements: Is There a ‘Mere Exposure’ Effect?
Authors: Morgenstern Matthis , Isensee Barbara , Hanewinkel Reiner
Published: August 2012

Aims: We aimed to explain the association between exposure to a cigarette advertisement and favorable attitudes towards the advertisement. Methods: We used data from an observational cross-sectional study with a sample of 3,415 German schoolchildren aged 10–17 years. Cigarette advertising exposure was assessed with an image of a Marlboro ad, asking for contact frequency (number of times seen the ad) and brand name. Liking of the ad was measured with two items (alpha = 0.78). Results: We found a positive linear association between exposure to the Marlboro ad and liking it. This association remained significant (standardized β = 0.09; p < 0.001) even after statistical control for smoking status, smoking of friends and parents, attitudes towards smoking in general, cigarette advertising receptivity (having a favorite cigarette ad), exposure to other advertisings, age, sex, socioeconomic status, rebelliousness and sensation seeking, self-reported school performance, and study region. Conclusions: The association between exposure to an advertisement and liking it was robust and could not be fully explained without referring to either unmeasured confounding or implicit advertising effects (e.g. mere exposure). Implicit effects have implications for prevention strategies as it may be very difficult to counteract unconscious advertising effects.
Effect of Umbilical Cord Bleeding following Mid-Pregnancy Cordocentesis on Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Tongsong Theera , Khumpho Raveewan , Wanapirak Chanane , Piyamongkol Wirawit , Sirichotiyakul Supatra
Published: August 2012

Objectives: To compare the adverse pregnancy outcomes among the three groups of umbilical cord bleeding following cordocentesis; a group of no bleeding (group 1), transient bleeding (group 2), and persistent bleeding (>60 s: group 3). Methods: Consecutive cases of cordocentesis were prospectively recorded and followed up. The inclusion criteria for analysis consisted of (1) singleton pregnancies; (2) gestational age of 18–22 weeks; (3) no fetal anomalies; (4) no previous invasive procedures; (5) performed by experienced operators, and (6) known pregnancy outcomes. The main outcomes were rates of fetal loss, low birth weight and preterm birth. Results: Of 2,174 procedures, 1,614 were in group 1, 509 were in group 2, and 51 were in group 3. The mean birth weight and gestational age at delivery were significantly lower in group 3 than those in groups 1 and 2. The fetal loss rate was significantly higher in group 3. Rates of low birth weight and preterm birth were significantly higher in group 3 whereas the rates in group 2 had a tendency to be higher than those in group 1. Conclusion: This study suggests that cord bleeding during cordocentesis carries a higher risk of fetal loss, low birth weight and preterm birth.
An Acquired Defect Associated with Abnormal Signaling of the Platelet Collagen Receptor Glycoprotein VI
Authors: Qiao Jianlin , Arthur Jane F. , Collecutt Margaret , Shen Yang , Mu Fi-Tjen , Berndt Michael C. , Davis Amanda K. , Andrews Robert K. , Gardiner Elizabeth E.
Published: August 2012

Introduction: Ligands acting at the platelet collagen receptor, glycoprotein (GP)VI, induce intracellular FcRγ/Syk-dependent signaling pathways and Syk-dependent or Syk-independent generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Additional signaling-dependent or signaling-independent pathways lead to metalloproteinase-mediated shedding of GPVI. Aim: Analysis of platelet GPVI expression and signaling in a patient with a collagen-selective defect associated with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) uniquely demonstrates divergent pathways leading to ROS generation and Syk phosphorylation in human platelets. Methods: Surface expression of GPVI and ligand-induced ROS generation was quantitated by flow cytometry. GPVI shedding and Syk phosphorylation were analyzed by Western blot. Results: Despite platelet count/size and GPVI surface expression within normal ranges, platelet-rich plasma showed no aggregation in response to collagen or GPVI-selective agonist collagen-related peptide, but aggregated in response to other agonists, consistent with dysfunctional GPVI signaling. We observed rapid GPVI-dependent Syk-independent ROS generation and disulfide-dependent GPVI homodimerization, but not Syk-dependent ROS or ligand-induced shedding. Temporal analysis showed a gradual decline in platelet count and the appearance of ligand-induced phosphorylation of an ∼40-kDa Syk fragment. Conclusions: These studies show that GPVI ligation in platelets induces intracellular ROS production independent of either Syk activation or divergent pathways leading to platelet aggregation or ectodomain shedding.
Analysis of the Absence of the Detrusor Muscle in Initial Transurethral Resected Specimens and the Presence of Residual Tumor Tissue
Authors: Huang Jiefu , Fu Jinggao , Zhan Hailun , Xie Keji , Liu Bolong , Yang Fei , Lu Yangbo , Zhou Xiangfu
Published: August 2012

Objective: To investigate the relationship between surgeon’s experience, tumor characteristics, absent detrusor muscle (DM) tissue in resected specimens, and residual tumor after an initial transurethral resection. Patients and Methods: We conducted an analysis of 216 patients from two centers over a 3-year period. Patients with primary bladder tumors that were judged to have been completely resected were recruited. The data included tumor characteristics, surgeon category, and DM status. Logistic regression multivariate analyses were conducted. Results: Large tumors, lateral/dome/anterior wall tumors, and surgery performed by junior surgeons were independently associated with absent DM. Large tumors, dome/anterior wall tumors, T1 and absent DM were independently associated with residual disease. The absence and presence of the DM were associated with residual tumor rates of 51.8 and 20.9%, respectively (OR 15.537). Resection by senior surgeons was associated with the presence of DM and clean resection (OR 0.274 and 0.141, respectively). Conclusions: Absent DM and residual tumor were more likely to occur in cases involving large tumors that were located in the lateral/dome/anterior wall, especially when the surgery was performed by a junior surgeon. Absent DM appears to be a surrogate marker for residual disease.
The Effect of Varying Concentrations of Fluoridated Milk on Enamel Remineralisation in vitro
Authors: Malinowski M. , Duggal M.S. , Strafford S.M. , Toumba K.J.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this in vitro single blind study was to investigate the dose response of fluoride in milk on enamel demineralisation and remineralisation under pH cycling using transverse microradiography (TMR). Enamel slabs (n = 11) with caries-like lesions were exposed to milk containing 6 different fluoride concentrations (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 5.0 and 10.0 ppm F). On each of the 14 days of the cycling period the lesions were exposed to five 2-minute periods of cariogenic challenge (1.5 mM CaCl2, 0.9 mM KH2PO4 and 50 mM acetic acid at pH 5.0) and two 5-min periods in milk plus 10 min in a milk/saliva (1:3) slurry. The slabs were stored at 37°C in artificial saliva throughout the cycling period and demineralisation and remineralisation was assessed by TMR using dedicated image software. Remineralisation (ΔZ) was observed in all fluoride groups in contrast to demineralisation in the non-fluoride control. Remineralisation was significant (p < 0.05) for all concentrations above 1.0 ppm F. The results showed that fluoride concentration in milk exhibited a clear dose dependency and that the presence of fluoride even at low concentrations promoted remineralisation in this pH-cycling model.
Ageing and Oxytocin: A Call for Extending Human Oxytocin Research to Ageing Populations – A Mini-Review
Authors: Huffmeijer Renske , van IJzendoorn Marinus H. , Bakermans-Kranenburg Marian J.
Published: August 2012

Interest in oxytocin has increased rapidly over the last decades. Consequently, quite a number of studies have addressed the influence of oxytocin on social stress, perception, cognition, and decision making in healthy adults as well as in clinical samples characterized by some form of social disturbance. Surprisingly little research on oxytocin has focused on ageing populations. This is particularly striking in two areas of study: the role of oxytocin in grandparents’ behavior toward and bonding with their grandchildren and the effects of oxytocin on the neurocognitive processing of socioemotional stimuli. The current mini-review offers an overview of the literature on the involvement of oxytocin in parental behavior and neurocognitive functioning, and discusses the relevance of these findings to ageing individuals. As the literature shows that oxytocin is profoundly involved in parenting and in bonding throughout life, it is highly likely that oxytocin plays a role in grandparenting and bonding between grandparents and grandchildren as well. However, results obtained with younger adults may not be directly applicable to older individuals in yet another type of relationship. The possibility that age-related changes occur in the oxytocin system (which is at present unclear) must be taken into account. In addition, ageing impairs neurocognitive processes that are profoundly affected by oxytocin (including some aspects of memory and emotion recognition) and is associated with alterations in both structure and function of the amygdala, which is prominently involved in mediating effects of oxytocin. Research investigating the ageing oxytonergic system and studies focusing on the involvement of oxytocin in socioemotional neurocognitive processes and social behavior in elderly individuals, including grandparents, are therefore urgently needed.
Supplementary Ultrafiltration May Improve Inflammation and Cardiac Dysfunction in Patients with High Interdialytic Weight Gain
Authors: Yilmaz Rahmi , Arici Mustafa , Yildirim Tolga , Sahiner Levent , Aytemir Kudret , Altun Bulent , Erdem Yunus , Turgan Cetin
Published: August 2012

Background/Aims: We tested the hypothesis that adding an ultrafiltration session per week may improve brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and left ventricular function in hypervolemic hemodialysis patients. Methods: Twenty-six patients (18 male, 8 female; mean age 57.2 ± 12.7 years) who had high BNP and CRP levels and interdialytic weight gain (IDWG) were recruited for the study. Patients were randomly allocated to one of two groups, namely the supplementary ultrafiltration (sUF) group (n = 13), who had additional ultrafiltrations for 8 weeks, and the regular hemodialysis (rHD) group (n = 13), who continued regular dialysis treatments. Results: There were significant decreases in mean CRP and BNP levels and mean arterial blood pressure and significant improvements in left ventricular function in the sUF group, with no changes in the rHD group. Higher IDWG was observed in the rHD group compared to the sUF group after 8 weeks. Conclusion: sUF may be effective in reducing inflammatory burden and improving cardiac function.
Elder Abuse and Psychological Well-Being: A Systematic Review and Implications for Research and Policy - A Mini Review
Authors: Dong XinQi , Chen RuiJia , Chang E-Shien , Simon Melissa
Published: August 2012

Elder abuse and psychological distress are both important geriatric syndromes and are independently associated with premature morbidity and mortality. Despite recent advances, there has been little systematic exploration of the association between elder abuse and psychological distress. This systematic review synthesizes the qualitative and quantitative studies on the relationship between elder abuse and psychological distress, namely psychological distress as a risk factor and/or a consequence of elder abuse. Moreover, through this review, future research directions for elder abuse and psychological distress and their implications for practice and policy to improve the health and aging of vulnerable populations are also highlighted.
A Rare Case of Ventricular Diverticulum in a Child with Occipital Encephalocele
Authors: Garg Kanwaljeet , Mahapatra Ashok K.
Published: August 2012

Ventricular diverticula are dilatations of the ventricular system caused by stretching and protrusion of the ventricular wall as a result of severe chronic obstructive hydrocephalus. We report a case of lateral ventricular diverticulum arising from the occipital horn in a patient with occipital encephalocele. To the best of our knowledge, this is a first case of ventricular diverticulum in a patient with occipital encephalocele.