bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective role of vitamins A, C, and E against the genotoxic damage induced by aflatoxin B1 in cultured human lymphocytes
Authors: Alpsoy L , Agar G , Ikbal M
Published: May 2009

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamins A, C, and E against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on blood cultures in relation to induction of sister chromatid exchange (SCE). The results indicated genotoxic and mutagenic damage in cultured human lymphocytes exposed to AFB1. The results showed that 5 μM concentration of AFB1 increased SCE. When vitamins A, C, and E were added to AFB1, the frequency of SCE decreased. These results suggest that vitamins A, C, and E could effectively inhibit AFB1-induced SCE, which may partially responsible for its mutagenic effect of AFB1. Besides, the protective effect of vitamins A, C, and E against AFB1 was increased in a dose-dependent manner (i.e., as the doses increased, their protective effects also increased). There was a significant decrease in the SCE frequency in AFB1-treated group compared with the groups receiving AFB1 and also vitamins A, C, and E. The most effective concentration was 100 microM vitamin C, and the lowest effective concentration was 0.5 microM vitamin A. Vitamin C has the most effective concentration of 100 μM, and vitamin A has the lowest effective concentration of 0.5 μM. The order of the decreasing effect of the SCE frequency of vitamins was as follows: vitamin C > vitamin E > vitamin A.
Determination of DNA damage by alkaline halo and comet assay in patients under sevoflurane anesthesia
Authors: Kadioglu E , Sardas S , Erturk S , Ozatamer O , Karakaya AE
Published: May 2009

In this study, we report data on the possible genotoxic effect of inhalation anesthetic sevoflurane (SVF) by comparing two techniques, comet and alkaline halo assay, in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) of patients before, during, and after anesthesia and in controls. DNA single strand breaks were detected in PBL of malignant breast cancer diagnosed patients (stage II–III), who were undergoing mastectomy. Blood samples were taken before the induction of anesthesia, at 120 min of SVF anesthesia, and on the postoperative fifth day. The nuclear spreading factor (NSF) for each cell was assessed by alkaline halo assay, and the total comet score (TCS) was evaluated by comet assay. A statistically significant increase ( P < 0.0001) was observed in the mean NSF at 120 min of anesthesia (38.24 ± 14.14) as compared with samples before anesthesia (12.33 ± 6.14), and the mean NSF was significantly decreased after the postoperative fifth day (17.89 ± 9.44). Similar results were obtained by the comet assay with significant increase ( P < 0.0001) in DNA damage at 120 min of anesthesia (79.66 ± 15.28) as compared with samples before anesthesia (36.30 ± 11.39). The DNA damage was almost with the preoperative damage rates after the fifth day of anesthesia (43.40 ± 12.19). In conclusion, the study points out a reversible genotoxic effect of SVF and the similar DNA damage levels obtained by comet and alkaline halo assay indicate that although halo assay has a completely different principle, it can conveniently be utilized for the assessment of DNA single strand breakage in individual mammalian cells with its experimental advantages.
Gender and Fear of Terrorism in Turkey
Authors: Wilcox Pamela , Ozer M. Murat , Gunbeyi Murat , Gundogdu Tarkan
Published: May 2009

Fear of crime research has highlighted women's differential perceptions and emotions regarding particular offenses—sexual assault, most notably. However, the gendered nature of other crime-specific fears remains understudied. The authors used survey data from high school students in Turkey to examine (a) whether there are gender differences in fear of terrorism, (b) how correlates of terrorism—including media exposure, proterrorism associations, attitudes about terrorism, and demographic and contextual background characteristics—might mediate effects of gender, and (c) whether correlates of terrorism vary by gender. Findings indicated that women were more fearful of terrorism than men and that this difference persisted even after accounting for differences in the measured correlates of media exposure, proterrorism associations, attitudes about terrorism, and demographic and contextual variables. Furthermore, the effects of several of these correlates of fear were significantly different across gender.
Intelligent Structural State Retrieval Model Inspired from Human Memory
Authors: Wei Zheng  , WeiMin Chen
Published: May 2009

Long-term SHM systems need to control the scale of monitoring data storage and reduce the maintenance cost of sensor failures. Inspired by human memory, an intelligent structural state retrieval model is presented. First, the mental model of human memory is introduced and then the structural state recognition model and recall model are established. Methods of calculating familiarity values for recognition and similarity values for recall are discussed for the model. An experiment on strain monitoring was carried out to show the implementation process while demonstrating the effectiveness of the model. It is shown that the structural state recognition model can discard a large amount of redundant information and the structural state recall model can restore the missing data of failed sensors.
What Does Sustainability Mean to City Officials?
Authors: Zeemering Eric S.
Published: May 2009

Sustainability has become a popular concept influencing the work of community and economic development officials in city governments. However, the term sustainability lacks conceptual clarity, and a variety of programs could advance sustainability goals. Given this problem, this study asks, What does sustainability mean to city economic development officials? Q-methodology is used to identify which aspects of sustainability are most important to a sample of city officials in the San Francisco Bay Area. Three patterns of importance were identified, exhibiting emphases on urban design, traditional economic development, and civic engagement. Understanding the multiple meanings of sustainability for local government officials will be critical as city officials seek to advance this new priority for local governments and as scholars evaluate the implementation of urban sustainability programs.
T2 hypointensity in the deep gray matter of patients with benign multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ceccarelli A , Filippi M , Neema M , Arora A , Valsasina P , Rocca MA , Healy BC , Bakshi R
Published: May 2009

Background

Gray matter (GM) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2 hypointensity, a putative marker of iron deposition, commonly occurs in multiple sclerosis (MS). However, GM T2 hypointensity in benign MS (BMS) has not yet been characterized.

Objective

To determine the presence of deep GM T2 hypointensity in BMS, compare it to secondary progressive (SP) MS and assess its association with clinical and diffusion tensor (DT) MRI measures.

Methods

Thirty-five cognitively unimpaired BMS, 26 SPMS patients, and 25 healthy controls were analyzed for normalized T2-intensity in the basal ganglia and thalamus, global T2 hyperintense lesion volume, global atrophy, and white matter and GM DT metrics.

Results

BMS and SPMS patients showed deep GM T2 hypointensity compared with controls. T2 hypointensity was similar in both MS subgroups and moderately correlated ( r = −0.45 to 0.42) with DT MRI metrics. GM T2 hypointensity in BMS showed a weak to moderate correlation ( r = −0.44 to −0.35) with disability.

Conclusions

GM in BMS is not spared from structural change including iron deposition. However, while T2 hypointensity is related to global tissue disruption reflected in DT MRI, the expression of benign versus non-benign MS is likely related to other factors.
Repeated Maximal Volitional Effort Contractions in Human Spinal Cord Injury: Initial Torque Increases and Reduced Fatigue
Authors: Hornby T. George , Lewek Michael D. , Thompson Christopher K. , Heitz Robert
Published: May 2009

Background. Substantial data indicate greater muscle fatigue in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) compared with healthy control subjects when tested by using electrical stimulation protocols. Few studies have investigated the extent of volitional fatigue in motor incomplete SCI. Methods. Repeated, maximal volitional effort (MVE) isometric contractions of the knee extensors (KE) were performed in 14 subjects with a motor incomplete SCI and in 10 intact subjects. Subjects performed 20 repeated, intermittent MVEs (5 seconds contraction/5 seconds rest) with KE torques and thigh electromyographic (EMG) activity recorded. Results. Peak KE torques declined to 64% of baseline MVEs with repeated efforts in control subjects. Conversely, subjects with SCI increased peak torques during the first 5 contractions by 15%, with little evidence of fatigue after 20 repeated efforts. Increases in peak KE torques and the rate of torque increase during the first 5 contractions were attributed primarily to increases in quadriceps EMG activity, but not to decreased knee flexor co-activation. The observed initial increases in peak torque were dependent on the subject’s volitional activation and were consistent on the same or different days, indicating little contribution of learning or accommodation to the testing conditions. Sustained MVEs did not elicit substantial increases in peak KE torques as compared to repeated intermittent efforts. Conclusions. These data revealed a marked divergence from expected results of increased fatigability in subjects with SCI, and may be a result of complex interactions between mechanisms underlying spastic motor activity and changes in intrinsic motoneuron properties.
A 1-Piece Shape-Metal Nitinol Intramedullary Internal Fixation Device for Arthrodesis of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint in Neuropathic Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Roukis Thomas S.
Published: May 2009

A common complication associated with diabetes is the development of a rigid structural lesser toe contracture, which, when combined with peripheral sensory neuropathy, can lead to ulceration, infection, and amputation. Surgical correction of lesser toe contractures in persons with diabetes has been advocated to decrease the potential for ulceration and amputation. Lesser toe proximal interphalangeal joint arthrodesis employing myriad joint preparation and fixation methods is commonly performed to correct a rigid structural toe contracture. The author performed a retrospective, observational, cohort study involving 10 patients (30 toes) with diabetes, dense peripheral neuropathy, and rigid structural toe contracture treated with a 1-piece shape-memory Nitinol intramedullary internal fixation device for arthrodesis of the proximal interphalangeal joint. Successful fusion was achieved in 28 of 30 toes (93%), with a stable nonunion achieved in the remainder. Complications that arose occurred early in the author's experience with this implant and consisted of secondary contracture of the distal interphalangeal joint (23%), displaced fixation (13%), and malunion (7%). No patient developed ulceration, and no additional surgery has been required to date. When properly performed, the use of this implant for arthrodesis of the proximal interphalangeal joint in neuropathic patients with diabetes appears safe and reliable.
Milk, Dairy Fat, and Body Weight in Pediatrics: Time for Reappraisal
Authors: Slyper Arnold , Huang Wei-Min
Published: May 2009

The objective of this study was to review the pediatric literature on the relationship between dairy, milk fat, and body weight to ascertain whether it supports current recommendations to limit dairy fat in children and adolescents. With only a few exceptions, pediatric crosssectional and prospective studies from across the globe have demonstrated significant negative associations between dairy or milk intake and body mass index or body fat. Four studies have looked specifically at the fat content of milk, and none have implicated whole or 2% milk as being more weight inducing than lower fat milk. The pediatric literature on dairy provides no support to the notion that skim milk is more protective against excessive weight gain than whole milk and in fact raises the possibility that the very opposite may be the case. Hypotheses are suggested to explain this.
AID constrains germinal center size by rendering B cells susceptible to apoptosis
Authors: Zaheen Ahmad , Boulianne Bryant , Parsa Jahan-Yar , Ramachandran Shaliny , Gommerman Jennifer L. , Martin Alberto
Published: May 2009

The germinal center (GC) is a transient lymphoid tissue microenvironment that fosters T cell–dependent humoral immunity. Within the GC, the B cell–specific enzyme, activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID), mutates the immunoglobulin locus, thereby altering binding affinity for antigen. In the absence of AID, larger GC structures are observed in both humans and mice, but the reason for this phenomenon is unclear. Because significant apoptosis occurs within the GC niche to cull cells that have acquired nonproductive mutations, we have examined whether a defect in apoptosis could account for the larger GC structures in the absence of AID. In this report, we reveal significantly reduced death of B cells in AID−/− mice as well as in B cells derived from AID−/− bone marrow in mixed bone marrow chimeric mice. Furthermore, AID-expressing B cells show decreased proliferation and survival compared with AID−/− B cells, indicating an AID-mediated effect on cellular viability. The GC is an etiologic site for B-cell autoimmunity and lymphomagenesis, both of which have been linked to aberrant AID activity. We report a link between AID-induced DNA damage and B-cell apoptosis that has implications for the development of B-cell disorders.
Pathogenesis of lung cancer signalling pathways: roadmap for therapies
Authors: Brambilla E. , Gazdar A.
Published: May 2009

Lung cancer is the major cancer killer worldwide, and 5-yr survival is extremely poor (≤15%), accentuating the need for more effective therapeutic strategies.

Significant advances in lung cancer biology may lead to customised therapy based on targeting specific genes and pathways. The main signalling pathways that could provide roadmaps for therapy include the following: growth promoting pathways (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor/Ras/PhosphatidylInositol 3-Kinase), growth inhibitory pathways (p53/Rb/P14ARF, STK11), apoptotic pathways (Bcl-2/Bax/Fas/FasL), DNA repair and immortalisation genes.

Epigenetic changes in lung cancer contribute strongly to cell transformation by modifying chromatin structures and the specific expression of genes; these include DNA methylation, histone and chromatin protein modification, and micro-RNA, all of which are responsible for the silencing of tumour suppressor genes while enhancing expression of oncogenes.

The genetic and epigenetic pathways involved in lung tumorigenesis differ between smokers and nonsmokers, and are tools for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, clinical follow-up and targeted therapies.
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis caused by occupational exposure to phytase
Authors: van Heemst R. C. , Sander I. , Rooyackers J. , de Jong L. , Djamin R. S. , Aerts J. G. , Belderbos H. N. A.
Published: May 2009

A 43-yr-old male presented with a 6-month history of episodes of coughing, shortness of breath and fever. He suffered from dyspnoea on minor exertion. The patient worked in a cattle feed factory and noticed that he had more complaints after his working hours. His symptoms could be ascribed to hypersensitivity pneumonitis due to contact with phytase, an enzyme added to cattle feed to strengthen bone and diminish phosphorus excretion.

The diagnosis was supported by bibasal lung crackles on physical examination, restrictive ventilatory defect (with decreased diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide), typical radiographical findings, lymphocytosis in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and a positive exposure test performed at the workplace. Blood examination showed high immunoglobulin G levels to phytase.

After treatment and cessation of phytase contact the patient became symptom free and lung function normalised. Phytase should be considered as a cause of occupational hypersensitivity pneumonitis in the animal feed industry.
Increased incidence of respiratory symptoms among female woodworkers exposed to dry wood
Authors: Jacobsen G. , Schlünssen V. , Schaumburg I. , Sigsgaard T.
Published: May 2009

The aim of the present study was to investigate the occurrence of new respiratory symptoms in relation to wood dust exposure in a 6-yr follow-up study.

A total of 1,377 woodworkers (1,137 males; 240 females) and 297 reference workers (137 males; 160 females) participated. Data on respiratory symptoms, employment and smoking habits were collected. Wood dust exposure was assessed from baseline dust measurements, and cumulative wood dust exposure was assessed by study-specific job exposure matrices and exposure time.

The geometric mean (geometricsd) dust level decreased during the study period from 0.94 (2.1) to 0.60 (1.6) mg·m−3. Adjusted analysis revealed positive associations for cumulative incidence proportion of chronic bronchitis and daily coughing for female woodworkersversusfemale reference workers. The cumulative incidence proportion of daily coughing and chronic bronchitis were found to be associated with baseline wood dust exposure in a dose-dependent manner. The odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for daily coughing (with reference to the lowest exposure quartile) was 1.6 (0.6–4.3), 3.2 (0.9–6.8) and 3.8 (1.5–9.7), respectively, in the second and third lowest and the highest quartile. The figures for chronic bronchitis were, accordingly, 2.3 (0.4–14.5), 3.0 (0.5–18.7) and 6.0 (1.2–28.8).

In conclusion, female woodworkers in this low exposure cohort showed an increased incidence of coughing and bronchitis, whereas no relations to wood dust exposure were seen for male woodworkers.
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging for the assessment of the heart and pulmonary circulation in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: McLure L. E. R. , Peacock A. J.
Published: May 2009

Pulmonary hypertension is a disease of the pulmonary arteries resulting in a progressive increase in pulmonary vascular resistance, ultimately leading to right ventricular failure and death. The functional capacity of the right ventricle is a major prognostic determinant. Our understanding of right ventricle performance in pulmonary hypertension has been hindered by the lack of techniques that give a reliable picture of right ventricle morphology and function. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging enables a unique combination of morphological and functional assessment of the right ventricle and pulmonary circulation. In this review article, we introduce the technique of CMR imaging, review its use in imaging of the heart and pulmonary circulation and discuss its current and future application to the management of patients with pulmonary hypertension.

There have been recent major advances in our understanding of the mechanism of disease development, in the diagnostic process, and in the treatment of pulmonary hypertension. Therapeutic advances in the management have reinforced the requirement for noninvasive, accurate and reproducible methods of assessment to act as “end-points” to measure the effects of treatment. We anticipate CMR imaging will increasingly be utilised as the primary modality for combined anatomic and functional assessments that enable more complete and efficient evaluation of pulmonary hypertension patients.
Metabolic aspects of obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome
Authors: Bonsignore M. R. , Eckel J.
Published: May 2009

Insulin resistance is often associated with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) and could contribute to cardiovascular risk in OSAS. Sleep loss and intermittent hypoxia could contribute to the pathogenesis of the metabolic alterations associated with obesity, a common feature of OSAS. The biology of the adipocyte is being increasingly studied, and it has been found that hypoxia negatively affects adipocyte function.

In November 2007, the European Respiratory Society and two EU COST Actions (Cardiovascular risk in OSAS (B26) and Adipose tissue and the metabolic syndrome (BM0602)), held a Research Seminar in Düsseldorf, Germany, to discuss the following: 1) the effects of hypoxia on glucose metabolism and adipocyte function; 2) the role of inflammatory activation in OSAS and obesity; 3) the alarming rates of obesity and OSAS in children; 4) the harmful effects of the metabolic syndrome in OSAS; 5) the effects of OSAS treatment on metabolic variables; and 6) the relationship between daytime sleepiness and hormonal and inflammatory responses. Insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, the role of the endocannabinoid system and novel pharmacological approaches to treat insulin resistance were also discussed.

As obesity and hypoxia could be the basic links between OSAS and adipocyte dysfunction, further research is needed to translate these new data into clinical practice.
Acute exacerbation of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis as the initial presentation of the disease
Authors: Sakamoto K. , Taniguchi H. , Kondoh Y. , Ono K. , Hasegawa Y. , Kitaichi M.
Published: May 2009

The clinical course of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is generally marked by a decline in pulmonary function over time, although recently there is increasing recognition that fatal deterioration from acute exacerbation can occur at any stage.

The patient described in the present case study was a 65-yr-old male who presented with exertional dyspnoea and fever of 2 weeks' duration. He had no history of chronic lung disease or physiological or radiological hallmarks of pre-existing disease. He underwent surgical lung biopsy and the histological examination showed a background pattern of usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) with a pattern of focal acute diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) in the area where normal lung architecture was preserved.

It is notable that the pathological diagnosis of this rapidly progressive interstitial pneumonia was DAD on UIP, which is typically seen in acute exacerbations of IPF. Unusual findings on high-resolution computed tomography scan were also noted.

We presume that in this case acute exacerbation developed in the very early course of IPF. Given the possibility that similar cases may have arisen among patients diagnosed with acute interstitial pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome, the histopathology of rapidly progressive interstitial pneumonia may need to be revisited.
Detection and validation of single feature polymorphisms using RNA expression data from a rice genome array
Authors: Kim Sung-Hyun , Bhat Prasanna R , Cui Xinping , Walia Harkamal , Xu Jin , Wanamaker Steve , Ismail Abdelbagi M , Wilson Clyde , Close Timothy J
Published: May 2009

Background

A large number of genetic variations have been identified in rice. Such variations must in many cases control phenotypic differences in abiotic stress tolerance and other traits. A single feature polymorphism (SFP) is an oligonucleotide array-based polymorphism which can be used for identification of SNPs or insertion/deletions (INDELs) for high throughput genotyping and high density mapping. Here we applied SFP markers to a lingering question about the source of salt tolerance in a particular rice recombinant inbred line (RIL) derived from a salt tolerant and salt sensitive parent.

Results

Expression data obtained by hybridizing RNA to an oligonucleotide array were analyzed using a statistical method called robustified projection pursuit (RPP). By applying the RPP method, a total of 1208 SFP probes were detected between two presumed parental genotypes (Pokkali and IR29) of a RIL population segregating for salt tolerance. We focused on the Saltol region, a major salt tolerance QTL. Analysis of FL478, a salt tolerant RIL, revealed a small (< 1 Mb) region carrying alleles from the presumed salt tolerant parent, flanked by alleles matching the salt sensitive parent IR29. Sequencing of putative SFP-containing amplicons from this region and other positions in the genome yielded a validation rate more than 95%.

Conclusion

Recombinant inbred line FL478 contains a small (< 1 Mb) segment from the salt tolerant parent in the Saltol region. The Affymetrix rice genome array provides a satisfactory platform for high resolution mapping in rice using RNA hybridization and the RPP method of SFP analysis.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to assess the efficacy of topiramate in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Mello Marcelo Feijó , Yeh Mary Sau Ling , Neto Jair Barbosa , Braga Luciana Lorens , Fiks Jose Paulo , Mendes Daniela Deise , Moriyama Tais S , Valente Nina Leão Marques , Costa Mariana Caddrobi Pupo , Mattos Patricia , Bressan Rodrigo Affonseca , Andreoli Sergio Baxter , Mari Jair Jesus
Published: May 2009

Background

Topiramate might be effective in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) because of its antikindling effect and its action in both inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters. Open-label studies and few controlled trials have suggested that this anticonvulsant may have therapeutic potential in PTSD. This 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial will compare the efficacy of topiramate with placebo and study the tolerability of topiramate in the treatment of PTSD.

Methods and design

Seventy-two adult outpatients with DSM-IV-diagnosed PTSD will be recruited from the violence program of Federal University of São Paulo Hospital (UNIFESP). After informed consent, screening, and a one week period of wash out, subjects will be randomized to either placebo or topiramate for 12 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint will be the change in the Clinician-administered PTSD scale (CAPS) total score from baseline to the final visit at 12 weeks.

Discussion

The development of treatments for PTSD is challenging due to the complexity of the symptoms and psychiatric comorbidities. The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the mainstream treatment for PTSD, but many patients do not have a satisfactory response to antidepressants. Although there are limited clinical studies available to assess the efficacy of topiramate for PTSD, the findings of prior trials suggest this anticonvulsant may be promising in the management of these patients.

Trial Registration

NCT 00725920
Evolution of the M gene of the influenza A virus in different host species: large-scale sequence analysis
Authors: Furuse Yuki , Suzuki Akira , Kamigaki Taro , Oshitani Hitoshi
Published: May 2009

Background

Influenza A virus infects not only humans, but also other species including avian and swine. If a novel influenza A subtype acquires the ability to spread between humans efficiently, it could cause the next pandemic. Therefore it is necessary to understand the evolutionary processes of influenza A viruses in various hosts in order to gain better knowledge about the emergence of pandemic virus. The virus has segmented RNA genome and 7th segment, M gene, encodes 2 proteins. M1 is a matrix protein and M2 is a membrane protein. The M gene may be involved in determining host tropism. Besides, novel vaccines targeting M1 or M2 protein to confer cross subtype protection have been under development. We conducted the present study to investigate the evolution of the M gene by analyzing its sequence in different species.

Results

Phylogenetic tree revealed host-specific lineages and evolution rates were different among species. Selective pressure on M2 was stronger than that on M1. Selective pressure on M1 for human influenza was stronger than that for avian influenza, as well as M2. Site-by-site analyses identified one site (amino acid position 219) in M1 as positively selected in human. Positions 115 and 121 in M1, at which consensus amino acids were different between human and avian, were under negative selection in both hosts. As to M2, 10 sites were under positive selection in human. Seven sites locate in extracellular domain. That might be due to host's immune pressure. One site (position 27) positively selected in transmembrane domain is known to be associated with drug resistance. And, two sites (positions 57 and 89) locate in cytoplasmic domain. The sites are involved in several functions.

Conclusion

The M gene of influenza A virus has evolved independently, under different selective pressure on M1 and M2 among different hosts. We found potentially important sites that may be related to host tropism and immune responses. These sites may be important for evolutional process in different hosts and host adaptation.
VITA-D: Cholecalciferol substitution in vitamin D deficient kidney transplant recipients: A randomized, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the post-transplant outcome
Authors: Thiem Ursula , Heinze Georg , Segel Rudolf , Perkmann Thomas , Kainberger Franz , Mühlbacher Ferdinand , Hörl Walter , Borchhardt Kyra
Published: May 2009

Background

Vitamin D does not only regulate calcium homeostasis but also plays an important role as an immune modulator. It influences the immune system through the induction of immune shifts and regulatory cells resulting in immunologic tolerance. As such, vitamin D is thought to exert beneficial effects within the transplant setting, especially in kidney transplant recipients, considering the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in kidney transplant recipients.

Methods/Design

The VITA-D study, a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study with two parallel groups including a total of 200 kidney transplant recipients, is designed to investigate the immunomodulatory and renoprotective effects of cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) within the transplant setting. Kidney transplant recipients found to have vitamin D deficiency defined as 25-hydroxyvitamin D3< 50 nmol per liter will be randomly assigned to receive either oral cholecalciferol therapy or placebo and will be followed for one year. Cholecalciferol will be administered at a dose of 6800 International Units daily over a time period of one year.

The objective is to evaluate the influence of vitamin D3substitution in vitamin D deficient kidney transplant recipients on the post-transplant outcome. As a primary endpoint glomerular filtration rate calculated with the MDRD formula (modification of diet in renal disease) one year after kidney transplantation will be evaluated. Incidence of acute rejection episodes, and the number and severity of infections (analyzed by means of C-reactive protein) within the first year after transplantation will be monitored as well. As a secondary endpoint the influence of vitamin D3on bone mineral density within the first year post-transplant will be assessed. Three DXA analyses will be performed, one within the first four weeks post-transplant, one five months and one twelve months after kidney transplantation.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00752401
Programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) suppresses metastastic potential of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Zhang Shuhong , Li Jianfeng , Jiang Ying , Xu Yijun , Qin Chengyong
Published: May 2009

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a lethal malignancy with high rate of metastasis and poor prognosis. There are no effective managements to block metastasis of HCC. Programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) is found to be a tumor transformation suppressor. Among investigations on effects of PDCD4, little is about the metastatic potentials of HCC cells. This study was to investigate the role of PDCD4 on metastatic potential of human HCC cells.

Methods

We examined the expression of PDCD4 in three HCC cell lines with different metastatic potentials, MHCC-97H (high metastatic potential), MHCC-97L (low metastatic potential) and Hep3B (no metastatic potential). A plasmid encoding PDCD4 gene was constructed and then transfected into HCC cells with the lowest PDCD4 expression level. Effects of PDCD4 on cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, gene expression of metastasis tumor antigen 1 (MTA1) and in vitro migration and invasion capacity were assessed after transfection.

Results

Our results showed that the expression level of PDCD4 was inversely correlated to the metastatic potential of HCC cells. After transfection with the PDCD4 gene, HCC cell proliferation rate was significantly decreased, cell apoptosis rate was significantly increased, the expression of MTA1 gene, HCC cell migration and Matrigel invasion were also remarkably inhibited.

Conclusion

PDCD4 expression is inversely correlated to the metastatic potential of HCC cells. PDCD4 can effectively suppress the metastatic potential of HCC cells.
The Cell Cycle Ontology: an application ontology for the representation and integrated analysis of the cell cycle process
Authors: Antezana Erick , Egaña Mikel , Blondé Ward , Illarramendi Aitzol , Bilbao Iñaki , De Baets Bernard , Stevens Robert , Mironov Vladimir , Kuiper Martin
Published: May 2009

The Cell Cycle Ontology (http://www.CellCycleOntology.org) is an application ontology that automatically captures and integrates detailed knowledge on the cell cycle process. Cell Cycle Ontology is enabled by semantic web technologies, and is accessible via the web for browsing, visualizing, advanced querying, and computational reasoning. Cell Cycle Ontology facilitates a detailed analysis of cell cycle-related molecular network components. Through querying and automated reasoning, it may provide new hypotheses to help steer a systems biology approach to biological network building.
Antidepressant-induced jitteriness/anxiety syndrome: systematic
review
Authors: Sinclair Lindsey I. , Christmas David M. , Hood Sean D. , Potokar John P. , Robertson Andrea , Isaac Andrew , Srivastava Shrikant , Nutt David J. , Davies Simon J. C.
Published: May 2009

Background

Early worsening of anxiety, agitation and irritability are thought to be
common among people commencing antidepressants, especially for anxiety
disorders. This phenomenon, which may be termed jitteriness/anxiety
syndrome, is cited as an explanation for early treatment failure and
caution in using selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
However, we believe that it is inconsistently defined and that robust
evidence to support the phenomenon is lacking.

Aims

To review systematically all evidence relating to jitteriness/ anxiety
syndrome to identify: constituent symptoms; medications implicated;
disorders in which it was reported; incidence; time course; management
strategies; relationship of this syndrome to therapeutic response;
distinction between syndrome and akathisia; relationship between syndrome
and suicide; and genetic predispositions.

Method

A systematic search identified articles and these were included in the
review if they addressed one of the above aspects of jitteriness/anxiety
syndrome.

Results

Of 245 articles identified, 107 articles were included for review. No
validated rating scales for jitteriness/anxiety syndrome were identified.
There was no robust evidence that the incidence differed between SSRIs
and tricyclic antidepressants, or that there was a higher incidence in
anxiety disorders. Published incidence rates varied widely from 4 to 65%
of people commencing antidepressant treatment. Common treatment
strategies for this syndrome included a slower titration of
antidepressant and the addition of benzodiazepines. Conclusive evidence
for the efficacy of these strategies is lacking. There was conflicting
and inconclusive evidence as to whether the emergence of this syndrome
had a predictive value on the response to treatment. It appears to be a
separate syndrome from akathisia, but evidence for this assertion was
limited. The effect of jitteriness/anxiety syndrome on suicide rates has
not been evaluated. Three studies examined genetic variations and
side-effects from treatment, but none was specifically designed to assess
jitteriness/anxiety syndrome.

Conclusions

Jitteriness/anxiety syndrome remains poorly characterised. Despite this,
clinicians' perception of this syndrome influences prescribing and it is
cited to support postulated mechanisms of drug action. We recommend
systematised evaluation of side-effects at earlier time points in
antidepressant trials to further elucidate this clinically important
syndrome.
The independent effect of added mass on the stability of the sagittal plane leg kinematics during steady-state human walking
Authors: Arellano Christopher J. , O'Connor Daniel P. , Layne Charles , Kurz Max J.
Published: May 2009

This study investigated the independent effect of added mass on the stability of the leg kinematics during human walking. We reasoned that adding mass would influence the body's inertial state and thus challenge the ability of the leg to redirect and accelerate the total mass of the body while walking. We hypothesized that walking with added mass would reduce the stability of the leg kinematics. Lower extremity sagittal plane joint kinematics were recorded for 23 subjects as they walked on a treadmill at their preferred speed with and without added mass. The total mass of each subject was manipulated with combinations of simulated reduced gravity and added load. The stability of the leg kinematics was evaluated by computing the eigenvalues of the Poincaré map (i.e. Floquet analysis) that defined the position and velocity of the right hip, knee and ankle at heel-contact and mid-swing. Significant differences in stability were found between the various added mass conditions (P=0.040) and instant in the gait cycle(P=0.001). Post-hoc analysis revealed that walking with 30%added mass compromised the stability of the leg kinematics compared with walking without additional mass (P=0.031). In addition, greater instability was detected at the instance of heel-contact compared with mid-swing (P=0.001). Our results reveal that walking with added mass gives rise to greater disturbances in the leg kinematics, and may be related to the redirection and acceleration of the body throughout the gait cycle. Walking with added mass reduces the stability of the leg kinematics and possibly the overall balance of the walking pattern.
Identification of a novel sodium-dependent fructose transport activity in the hepatopancreas of the Atlantic lobsterHomarus americanus
Authors: Sterling Kenneth M. , Cheeseman Christopher I. , Ahearn Gregory A.
Published: May 2009

[3H]Fructose and [3H]glucose transport were determined in brush-border membrane vesicles (BBMV), basolateral membrane vesicles (BLMV) and isolated cells (E, R, F, B) of H. americanus(Atlantic lobster) hepatopancreas. Glucose transport in BBMV was equilibrative in the absence of sodium and concentrative in the presence of sodium. Sodium-dependent glucose transport by BBMV was not inhibited by a tenfold molar excess of fructose. Glucose transport by BLMV was equilibrative and sodium independent. Fructose uptake by BBMV and BLMV was equilibrative in the absence of sodium and concentrative in the presence of sodium. This enhancement was not affected by a tenfold molar excess of glucose in the presence of sodium. E-, F- and B-cells showed sodium-dependent uptake of fructose, while R-cells did not. Sodium-dependent fructose uptake by E-cells was not inhibited by a tenfold molar excess of glucose or mannose. Western blot analysis of BBMV, BLMV and E-, R-, F- and B-cells using rabbit polyclonal antibodies directed against epitopes of mammalian GLUT2, GLUT5, SGLT1 and SGLT4 indicated the presence of cross-reacting lobster proteins. Sequence alignment of the mammalian proteins with translated, lobster expressed sequence tags also indicated significant identity between species. Comparison of fructose and glucose uptake in the absence and presence of sodium by BBMV,BLMV and isolated cells indicated the presence of a distinct sodium-dependent transport activity for each sugar in the Atlantic lobster.
Is testosterone immunosuppressive in a condition-dependent manner? An experimental test in blue tits
Authors: Roberts Mark , Peters Anne
Published: May 2009

In this experiment we manipulated testosterone (T) and condition in juvenile male blue tits (Cyanistes caeruleus) during the moult, to test whether T's supposed immunosuppressive qualities are condition-dependent. To achieve this, we used T and control implants in combination with a dietary manipulation. We measured responses to both phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) and humoral immune challenges during the period of the treatments (moult) and also in the following breeding season (spring). During moult, males fed the enhanced diet were in better condition but there was no difference in humoral response between the dietary groups. T males produced a greater humoral antibody response than control (C) males. In the spring, males that had been previously treated with high T again exhibited higher antibody responses than C males. High T levels during moult were associated with a low PHA response but only in males with low body mass: heavier males that had high T exhibited the highest PHA responses. In the spring, the pattern of PHA responses was reversed; responses were highest in males that had low body mass but also had high T levels, and the lowest responses were by males that had both high T and were relatively heavy. Our results suggest that the effects of T on immunity can be either immunoenhancing or immunosuppressive, depending upon the condition of the individual, its life history stage, as well as on the immune challenge employed.
Set Oriented Construction of Globally Optimal ControllersMengenorientierte Konstruktion global optimaler Regler
Authors: Grüne Lars , Junge Oliver
Published: May 2009

Recently, techniques for the design of optimal controllers have been developed which are based on a piecewise constant approximation of the value function of the underlying optimal control problem. They combine ideas from set oriented numerics with shortest path algorithms from graph theory. The approach is particularly well suited for problems with highly irregular value function, complicated state constraints and naturally handles hybrid systems. In this contribution, we give an overview of the approach and illustrate it by several numerical examples.
Exploring the Relationship between Faculty, Students, and the Social and Behavioral Ethics Review Committee through Action Research
Authors: Griebling Susan , Zayas Vilma Reyes , Borders Christy , Moore Elizabeth , Sokol Ashley , Brydon-Miller Mary , Gerlach Julie , Norman Claudia
Published: May 2009

Student researchers used action research both to study the relationship between university researchers and the ethics committee, and also to explore the ethics committee's approach to protocols involving action research and other qualitative methods. We review the existing literature on relationships between university faculty and their ethics committees and briefly discuss the basic tenets of action research. We then describe our research process and the specific recommendations that resulted from this work. Finally, we consider the ways in which action research can be used to better understand and address institutional problems through effective collaboration and dialogue.
Faculty Perspectives on Community-Based Research: “I See This Still as a Journey”
Authors: Kennedy Caitlin , Vogel Amanda , Goldberg-Freeman Clara , Kass Nancy , Farfel Mark
Published: May 2009

Academic faculty members are increasingly following community-based participatory research (CBPR) principles. We conducted qualitative, in-depth interviews with 22 Johns Hopkins faculty members who conduct community-based research to understand their experiences and perspectives. Respondents engaged the community in numerous ways, ranging from working with community advisory boards to hiring community members as project staff to collaborating with community members across all phases of research. Challenges included defining “community,” ensuring adequate community representation, sharing power with community partners, overcoming an institutional history of strained community-academic relationships, and working within existing academic incentive structures. Despite these challenges, respondents generally felt their experiences conducting research with community participation were positive and successful. Policy changes at funding and academic institutions and an emphasis on the similarities between CBPR and ethical principles could improve support for CBPR approaches.
Inclusion of Women, Minorities, and Children in Clinical Trials: Opinions of Research Ethics Board Administrators
Authors: Taylor Holly A.
Published: May 2009

In an attempt to encourage inclusion of women, minorities, and children in clinical trials, the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) requires investigators conducting NIH-sponsored research to adequately address NIH inclusion guidelines concerning recruitment of women, minorities, and children. A survey of U.S. Research Ethics Board (REB) administrators at institutions receiving NIH funding indicated awareness and implementation of the inclusion guidelines. According to the administrators, investigators and REBs address inclusion in more than half of the relevant protocols. About half of the REB administrators consider the guidelines partly responsible for increased attention to inclusion, but only about a quarter believe that there is greater inclusion as a result.
Generational Status and Academic Achiev Ement among Latino High School Students: Evaluating the Segmented Assimilation Theory
Authors: Kalogrides Demetra
Published: May 2009

In this study, the author evaluates some of the key assertions of the segmented assimilation theory by examining the generational pattern of achievement among Latino high school students. Segmented assimilation theory posits that the outcomes of immigrants will not necessarily improve monotonically across generations, especially in disadvantaged contexts, and that maintaining familial and ethnic ties can have a protective effect on immigrant students. The author tests these ideas by examining variation in the generational pattern of achievement in low-income schools among Latino high school students. The author finds that changes in achievement across generations generally follow a pattern of classical assimilation with small, though not statistically significant, improvements in achievement from the first to the second generation and from the second to the third generation in both poor and nonpoor schools. Contrary to hypotheses derived from segmented assimilation theory, the author finds no evidence of “downward assimilation” across generations among Latinos attending low-income schools.
Social Capital, Academic Achievement, and Postgraduation Plans at an Elite, Private University
Authors: Martin Nathan D.
Published: May 2009

Many studies have explored how social capital influences the academic experiences of secondary school students. A distinct literature has demonstrated the beneficial effects of social contacts on occupational attainment and the job search process. However, few studies have explored the effects of social capital at the postsecondary level. This study bridges this gap in the literature by examining the effects of campus social networks on college academic achievement and postgraduation education and occupation plans, using detailed panel data from an elite, private university. Results indicate that campus social networks have little effect on early college outcomes, although students with extensive networks are more likely to graduate with honors and continue on to graduate school. Students with extensive campus networks and extracurricular memberships are more likely to aspire to high-status professional occupations, especially as medical doctors, while family or personal networks are more important for aspiring lawyers.