bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Baseball
Authors: Paul Rodney J. , Weinbach Andrew P.
Published: September 2011

Due to the use of sports wagering market data as a laboratory to test the Efficient Markets Hypothesis, sports bettors have been assumed to behave as investors. With the rejection of the balanced book hypothesis and the persistent support of market efficiency, the notion of the sports bettor as investor should be in doubt. Using betting volume data from online sportsbooks, bettors are shown to substitute out of baseball betting into football betting when the season starts. The authors argue that these findings are consistent with consumer behavior, but inconsistent with the notion of bettors as investors.
The Wire Goes to College
Authors: Lageson Sarah , Green Kyle , Erensu Sinan
Published: September 2011

For five seasons, HBO's hit series The Wire delivered sharp social commentary on topics from poverty to failed institutions in urban America.  Now, professors in a range of fields are enlivening their classrooms by using the show as a platform from which to launch discussions on social problems, urban policy, and social science.
Voices of the Darfur Genocide
Authors: Hagan John
Published: September 2011

Social scientific research is uniquely poised to document the patterned and probabilistic evidence helpful in achieving legal accountability for mass atrocities—and offers a voice to those who would not otherwise be heard.
The Waning of American Apartheid?
Authors: Farley Reynolds
Published: September 2011

Racial residential segregation has a long and persistent history in the United States. Data from the most recent decade give hope that housing patterns and racial attitudes are moving—albeit slowly—toward integration.
Uncertain Knowledge
Authors: Fine Gary Alan , Difonzo Nicholas
Published: September 2011

Rumors are shaped and spread within communities, affected by who we find credible and what we find plausible. This article explores the power and value of shared knowledge.
Enduring Dilemmas of Female Celebrity
Authors: Sternheimer Karen
Published: September 2011

Today's tabloids, and their messages, are remarkably similar to the first glossies that appeared in Hollywood's "Golden Age." Even the first female film stars were caught between celebration and condemnation as they navigated traditional notions of femininity.
To Snitch or Not to Snitch
Authors: Kefalas Maria , Carr Patrick , Clampet-Lundquist Susan
Published: September 2011

Photographers document Philadelphia's "stop-snitching" code, a response to the realities of impoverished Philadelphia neighborhoods that includes the necessity of the drug economy.
Beyond Sectarianism in Iraq
Authors: Moaddel Mansoor , de Jong Julie , Dagher Munqith
Published: September 2011

During eight years of a U.S.-led occupation, Iraqi attitudes have shifted away from sectarianism and toward a national identity. Coupled with increased support for the separation of politics and religion, this shift may pave the road for a functioning national government.
They Tried to Make Her Go to Rehab
Authors: Tiger Rebecca
Published: September 2011

Contradictory views of addiction as both sickness and moral failing have resulted in a broken system in which famous substance users (like their everyday counterparts) are bounced between overcrowded jails, prisons, and rehab centers, all with little expectation of "success."
Lions, Tigers, and Bear Moms—Oh, My!
Authors: Friedman Hilary Levey
Published: September 2011

Pushy parenting is a central theme in Amy Chua's Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother, but Chinese mothers aren't the only caregivers well-schooled in the business of concerted cultivation.
Welfare-to-Work Doesn’t Really Work
Authors: Taylor Tiffany , Wilkes Kasey
Published: September 2011

Two analyses of welfare policy as it has played out for over a decade shows how welfare-to-work programs fail to meet the basic needs of their participants and their communities.
Falling Upward
Authors: Conley Dalton
Published: September 2011

Conley reflects on income inequality in the United States, and how our collective investment in the market likely ensures its perpetuation and growth.
Thrombin Injection for the Treatment of Mycotic Gluteal Aneurysm
Authors: Rubinstein Chen , Endean Eric D. , Minion David J. , Sorial Ehab E. , O’Keeffe Shane D. , Xenos Eleftherios S.
Published: September 2011

Gluteal aneurysms are rare entity, whose surgical or endovascular management is traditionally challenging. Infectious source being increasingly more common as the underlying etiology. We herein describe successful implementation of direct thrombin injection as another therapeutic option for these patients.
Posterior Nutcracker Syndrome
Authors: Skeik Nedaa , Gloviczki Peter , Macedo Thanila A.
Published: September 2011

Renal vein compression syndromes are rare causes of hematuria and can be divided into anterior and posterior nutcracker syndrome. When the left renal vein is compressed between the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery it causes anterior nutcracker syndrome. The posterior nutcracker syndrome is very rare and is considered when the left renal vein is compressed between the aorta and vertebral column. Symptoms of nutcracker syndromes may include intermittent left flank pain associated with hematuria, proteinuria, and sometimes with symptoms of pelvic congestion. Diagnosis is often difficult and plan for treatment is always challenging and requires careful evaluation of the patient’s history and workup findings. We present a rare case report of a posterior nutcracker syndrome diagnosed in a young lady with long-standing symptoms that required surgical intervention.
RO1 Funding for Mixed Methods Research
Authors: Arnault Denise Saint , Fetters Michael D.
Published: September 2011

Mixed methods research has made significant inroads in the effort to examine complex health-related phenomena. However, little has been published on the funding of mixed methods research projects. This article addresses that gap by presenting an example of a National Institute of Mental Health–funded project using a mixed methods qualitative–quantitative triangulation design titled “The Mixed-Method Analysis of Japanese Depression.” The authors present the Cultural Determinants of Health Seeking model that framed the study, the specific aims, the quantitative and qualitative data sources informing the study, and overview of the mixing of the two methods. Finally, the authors examine reviewers’ comments and the authors’ insights related to writing mixed methods proposals for successfully achieving RO1-level funding.
Occupational Stress
Authors: Huang Chun-Jung , Acevedo Edmund O.
Published: September 2011

Occupational stress can affect physiological and psychological homeostasis. In addition, the occupational challenges associated with firefighting and law enforcement have been linked to increased mortality ratios for ischemic heart disease when compared with other population cohorts. Laboratory studies have shown that the exacerbation of stress hormones (eg, catecholamines) following dual challenge (physical and psychological stress) may affect immune system responses, which may partially explain the link between cardiovascular disease and inflammation. Physical fitness has been shown to attenuate both cardiovascular and inflammatory cytokine responses following physical and/or psychological stress; however, criteria for safe and effective occupation-specific fitness levels have not been established. In addition, firefighters and police officers have high overweight and obesity rates, which also contribute significantly to the development of cardiovascular disease. Future investigation on the possible interaction (additive or synergistic) of obesity and psychological stress on the development of cardiovascular diseases in these professions is warranted, and a criterion for fitness level should be established for safe and effective participation in occupation-related activities.
Herbal Supplements for Stress
Authors: Lenz Thomas L.
Published: September 2011

Many herbal products are currently being marketed to the public as having a positive effect on stress reduction. Little research has been conducted on these products that provide health care professionals with the information they need to advise their patients on safety and effectiveness. This brief review looks at the available data on some of the most popular herbal supplements that are marketed as stress reducers. Many of these herbal products can cause a sedative effect. Therefore, health care professionals must caution their patients who concomitantly take a prescribed medication that causes central nervous system depression as well as those who drink alcohol with a herbal stress reducer due to a potential added sedative effect.
Quantitative risk assessment through hybrid causal logic approach
Authors: Wang Y-F , Xie M , Habibullah M S , Ng K-M
Published: September 2011

In this paper, a hybrid causal logic (HCL) model is improved by mapping a fuzzy fault tree (FFT) into a Bayesian network (BN). The first step is to substitute an FFT for the traditional FT. The FFT is based on the Takagi–Sugeno model and the translation rules needed to convert the FFT into a BN are derived. The proposed model is demonstrated in a study of a fire hazard on an offshore oil production facility. It is clearly shown that the FFT can be directly converted into a BN and that the parameters of the FFT can be estimated more accurately using the basic inference techniques of a BN. The improved HCL approach is able to both accurately determine how failures cause an undesired problem using FFT and also model non-deterministic cause–effect relationships among system elements using the BN.
Neomacrolides in the treatment of patients with severe asthma and/or bronchiectasis: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Coeman Mathieu , van Durme Yannick , Bauters Fre , Deschepper Ellen , Demedts Ingel , Smeets Peter , Joos Guy , Brusselle Guy
Published: September 2011

Rationale: Previous studies have demonstrated that long-term low-dose macrolides are efficacious in cystic fibrosis (CF) and diffuse panbronchiolitis, two chronic neutrophilic airway diseases.

Aims: The aims of this study were to evaluate the efficacy and safety of low-dose neomacrolides as add-on therapy in patients with severe asthma and/or bronchiectasis and to identify predictors for therapeutic response.

Methods: In a retrospective observational cohort study, we examined 131 adult, non-CF patients with severe asthma and/or bronchiectasis, receiving low-dose neomacrolides as add-on treatment. Pulmonary function tests and symptom scores were assessed at baseline and after 3 to 8 weeks of therapy.

Results: After 3–8 weeks of treatment with low-dose neomacrolides, 108 patients were available for evaluation. In asthma patients ( n = 47), pulmonary function tests and symptom scores improved significantly. Responders (≥7% forced expiratory volume in one second predicted [FEV1%] improvement) were older (55 vs. 47 years; p = 0.042) and had a longer duration of asthma (29 vs. 9 years; p = 0.052). In patients with bronchiectasis only ( n = 61), symptom scores improved significantly. Responders (≥60% symptom score improvement) were older (61 vs. 53 years; p = 0.004), more frequently male (53% vs. 27%; p = 0.043), and there was a nonsignificant trend towards higher high-resolution CT (HRCT) score for bronchiectasis in responders (6.4 vs. 4.6; p = 0.053). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, age and male gender were independent predictors for improvement in this group.

Conclusion: The results of this retrospective study suggest that neomacrolides may be useful as an add-on therapy in patients with severe asthma and/or bronchiectasis. Older age may predict good response in patients with severe asthma, whereas older age, male gender and a higher HRCT score for bronchiectasis may predict therapeutic response in patients with bronchiectasis only. Prospective controlled trials of neomacrolides in patients with severe asthma are needed to confirm these observations.
Management of sexual dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Bronner Gila , Vodušek David B.
Published: September 2011

Nonmotor symptoms, among them sexual dysfunction, are common and underrecognized in patients with Parkinson disease; they play a major role in the deterioration of quality of life of patients and their partners. Loss of desire and dissatisfaction with their sexual life is encountered in both genders. Hypersexuality (HS), erectile dysfunction and problems with ejaculation are found in male patients, and loss of lubrication and involuntary urination during sex are found in female patients. Tremor, hypomimia, muscle rigidity, bradykinesia, ‘clumsiness’ in fine motor control, dyskinesias, hypersalivation and sweating may interfere with sexual function. Optimal dopaminergic treatment should facilitate sexual encounters of the couple. Appropriate counselling diminishes some of the problems (reluctance to engage in sex, problems with ejaculation, lubrication and urinary incontinence). Treatment of erectile dysfunction with sildenafil and apomorphine is evidence based. HS or compulsive sexual behaviour are side effects of dopaminergic therapy, particularly by dopaminergic agonists, and should be treated primarily by diminishing their dose. Neurologists should actively investigate sexual dysfunction in their Parkinsonian patients and offer treatment, optimally within a multidisciplinary team, where a dedicated professional would deal with sexual counselling.
Natural toxins implicated in the development of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Salama Mohamed , Arias-Carrión Oscar
Published: September 2011

Experimental models of Parkinson’s disease (PD) are of great importance for improving the design of future clinical trials. Various neurotoxic models are available, including 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), paraquat and rotenone. However, no model is considered perfect; each has its own limitations. Based on epidemiological data, a new trend of using environmental toxins in PD modeling seems attractive and has dominated public discussions of the disease etiology. A search for new environmental toxin-based models would improve our knowledge of the pathology of the condition. Here, we discuss some toxins of natural origin (e.g. cycad-derived toxins, epoxomicin, Nocardia asteroides bacteria, Streptomyces venezuelae bacteria, annonacin and DOPAL) that possibly represent a contributory environmental component to PD.
The role of sodium hyaluronate and sodium chondroitin sulphate in the management of bladder disease
Authors: Damiano Rocco , Cicione Antonio
Published: September 2011

Bladder epithelium is not only a simple defence against infections, but it is also a specialized tissue regulating complex bladder functions and playing an active role in the pathogenesis of many bladder diseases. There is strong evidence that different chronic inflammatory bladder diseases, such as recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI), chemical or radiation cystitis and painful bladder syndrome/interstitial cystitis (PBS/IC), can be pathophysiologically linked in the first step of the disease to the loss of the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) mucous layer independently of the original cause of the inflammatory process. The aim of this article is to review the current evidence on the clinic applications of GAGs in urology, with particular emphasis on the therapeutic use of hyaluronic acid (HA) and chondroitin sulphate (CS). A comprehensive electronic literature search was conducted in May 2011 using the Medline database. Three studies supported the decrease of the rate of recurrent UTIs by restoring the GAG layer, showing a significant reduction of UTI rates and a prolonged median time to recurrence after HA intravesical instillations in women with recurrent UTI. We provide higher level evidence by reporting a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the use of intravesical HA and CS in women with recurrent UTIs. A significant reduction of 77% in the UTI rate per patient per year versus placebo was observed at the end of the study. Nine studies were published between 2002 and 2011 on the use of HA and CS to treat PBS/IC. Three of them evaluated the use of GAGs bladder instillation to prolong the effects of bladder hydrodistension. In the other six studies the efficacy of HA bladder instillations to reduce symptoms score was assessed. Preliminary studies support data on the role of HA–CS in detrusor overactivity, nonbacterial cystitis and urological malignancies. Few data are available regarding the mode of action of HA–CS or its effectiveness in the management of bladder diseases. The major issue in interpreting the available evidence regarding HA–CS is that most of the reported studies are nonrandomized and without a control arm. HA–CS may be considered for further studies, including randomized, controlled trials with adequate power.
Travel Planning
Authors: Toh Rex S. , DeKay Charles F. , Raven Peter
Published: September 2011

A survey of 249 leisure travelers at four hotels in Seattle, Washington, finds overwhelming use of the internet for searching and booking hotel rooms, although a noticeable percentage still make telephone calls to book rooms. Eight of ten respondents used the web for a hotel room search. Of this group, 67 percent continued online to make their booking (on either the hotel’s page or a third-party site), 26 percent made telephone calls, and the remainder used travel agents or walked in to book rooms. Earlier research indicates that the personal contacts (notably by phone) are aimed at negotiating a price lower than that found online. For those booking electronically, hotel websites were used most commonly by this group of respondents (37 percent), following by third-party sites (30 percent) and opaque auction sites (25 percent). In contrast to studies from the early 1990s, this study found that women have surpassed men in information search activities. Also, those who purchased hotel rooms online trended toward being younger, having higher incomes, and purchasing more room-nights than those who used traditional distribution channels. Although the study findings cannot be generalized because of the sampling procedure, it is clear that a substantial number of travelers use the internet for search only, and then book another way (usually by phone). Women conduct much more research regarding potential hotels and rates than do men. Hotels’ own websites remain the first choice for booking rooms, but opaque auction sites are almost as popular as regular third-party sites. For this sample, Priceline and other similar sites accounted for 25 percent of all bookings. Finally, even those travelers who did not use the internet for any purpose in connection with their hotel stay still had a relatively favorable opinion of the concept of online booking.
Depression, Anxiety, and Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescents and Young Adults With Allergies and Asthma
Authors: Molzon Elizabeth S. , Hullmann Stephanie E. , Eddington Angelica R. , Mullins Larry L.
Published: September 2011

The current study sought to compare rates of depressive symptoms, anxious symptoms, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with allergies, asthma, and healthy controls. Participants were undergraduate students aged 18 to 29 years with self-reported allergies (N = 79), asthma (N = 79), and with no history of a chronic illness (N = 79). Participants completed the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, and the SF-36 Health Survey Questionnaire as self-report measures of depressive symptoms, anxious symptoms, and HRQOL, respectively. A series of ANCOVAs (analysis of covariance; allergies vs asthma vs healthy controls) was conducted to examine differences between the groups. The results of the current examination suggest that AYAs with allergies are indeed at risk for experiencing higher rates of depressive and anxious symptoms and poorer HRQOL than healthy AYAs. Furthermore, they are experiencing psychosocial concerns on par with or worse than those of AYAs with asthma. Allergies, often perceived as a relatively benign illness, have commonly been overlooked in discussions of psychosocial concerns related to chronic illnesses. The results of the current study suggest that young adults with allergies are also an important population to examine.
What Is the Evidence That Environmental Remediation Programs Are Effective in Urban Children With Allergic Asthma? An Integrated Review
Authors: Townsend Kristen J. , George Maureen
Published: September 2011

Children with allergic asthma living in urban areas are exposed to heavy loads of allergens that adversely affect their health. The purpose of this inquiry was to determine if environmental remediation programs for urban exposures are effective. Research articles relevant to this topic were obtained by conducting a literature search of the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PubMed Plus, and Google Scholar databases. Search terms included combinations of asthma, environmental remediation, environmental triggers, environmental interventions, urban, and allergies. Out of 27 articles retrieved, 14 meeting inclusion and exclusion criteria were retained. When considered together, it appears that multiple-trigger environmental remediation programs are more effective than single- trigger programs in reducing asthma morbidity. To produce the best outcome, these programs should be tailored to a child’s specific sensitization and exposure. Asthma educators play a role in allergen remediation programs, beginning with educating their patients about environmental triggers and referring them, as needed, to more intensive remediation programs and resources.
Nasal continuous positive airway pressure: influence on digital volume pulse in obstructive sleep apnoea patients
Authors: Scholze Alexandra , Lamwers Stephanie , Tepel Martin , Sanner Bernd M.
Published: September 2011

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is linked to increased cardiovascular risk. This risk can be reduced by nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) treatment. As OSA is associated with an increase of several vasoconstrictive factors, we investigated whether nCPAP influences the digital volume pulse wave.

We performed digital photoplethysmography during sleep at night in 94 consecutive patients who underwent polysomnography and 29 patients treated with nCPAP. Digital volume pulse waves were obtained independently of an investigator and were quantified using an algorithm for continuous automated analysis.

In patients with OSA and an apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI) of >10 events·h−1, a significant vasoconstriction was observed during the night (p<0.0001 by Friedman’s test). A significant positive correlation existed between vasoconstriction and AHI (Spearman correlation, r=0.27; p<0.01; n=94) and the arousal index (Spearman correlation, r=0.21; p<0.05; n=94). After 6 months of nCPAP treatment, the AHI was significantly reduced from 27±3 events·h−1to 4±2 events·h−1(each n=29; p<0.001) and vasoconstriction during the night was significantly reduced from 10±3% to 3±1% (p<0.01).

We show changes in the reflective index during the night consistent with vasoconstriction in patients with OSA, which are significantly reduced after 6 months of nCPAP treatment.
Assessing the Liverpool Respiratory Symptom Questionnaire in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Trinick R. , Southern K.W. , McNamara P.S.
Published: September 2011

Monitoring respiratory status in cystic fibrosis (CF) is challenging, particularly in young children. We aimed to test whether the Liverpool Respiratory Symptom Questionnaire (LRSQ) could distinguish well, pre-school and older children with and without CF, whether it could distinguish well and unwell children with CF and, finally, whether LRSQ scores in older children with CF correlated with established measures of disease severity.

20 stable pre-school children with CF had significantly higher total LRSQ scores than 51 pre-school controls, and higher scores in two out of eight domains. Similarly, 21 stable 6- to 12-yr-old children with CF had higher total scores than 97 6- to 12-yr-old controls, and higher scores in seven out of eight domains.

In older children with CF, LRSQ scores correlated negatively with Shwachman score and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (r= -0.58, p<0.001, n=31; and r= -0.46, p<0.010, n=34, respectively). Within the CF group, patients who culturedPseudomonas aeruginosa, who used more “back-up” antibiotics or whose school attendance was lower also had higher LRSQ scores.

The LRSQ differentiates well children from those with CF in both pre-school and the 6- to 12-yr-old age group, even at a point of stability. It also differentiates stable from unwell children with CF, and scores correlate with other measures of respiratory disease, highlighting its potential as a clinical monitoring tool in paediatric CF.
Chronic infection and inflammation affect exercise capacity in cystic fibrosis
Authors: van de Weert-van Leeuwen P.B. , Slieker M.G. , Hulzebos H.J. , Kruitwagen C.L.J.J. , van der Ent C.K. , Arets H.G.M.
Published: September 2011

Pulmonary function and nutritional status are important determinants of exercise capacity in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Studies investigating the effects of determinants, such as genotype or infection and inflammation, are scarce and have never been analysed in a multivariate longitudinal model.

A prospective longitudinal cohort study was performed to evaluate whether genotype, chronic inflammation and infection were associated with changes in exercise capacity. Furthermore, we investigated whether exercise capacity can predict clinical outcome.

504 exercise tests of 149 adolescents with CF were evaluated. Maximal oxygen uptake corrected for body mass % predicted declined 20% during adolescence, and was associated with immunoglobulin (Ig)G levels and chronicPseudomonas aeruginosainfection. A lower exercise capacity was associated with a higher mortality, steeper decline in pulmonary function and greater increase in IgG levels.

Since a decline in exercise capacity during adolescence was negatively associated with IgG levels and chronicP. aeruginosainfection, these data emphasise the importance of prevention and treatment of chronic inflammation and infections in patients with CF. Furthermore, a lower exercise capacity was associated with a higher mortality rate, steeper decline in pulmonary function and higher increase in IgG levels with increasing age in adolescents with CF. This stresses the value of regular exercise testing for assessing prognosis in adolescents with CF.
Expression of muscarinic receptors by human macrophages
Authors: Koarai A. , Traves S.L. , Fenwick P.S. , Brown S.M. , Chana K.K. , Russell R.E.K. , Nicholson A.G. , Barnes P.J. , Donnelly L.E.
Published: September 2011

Macrophages increase in number and are highly activated in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Muscarinic receptor antagonists inhibit acetylcholine-stimulated release of neutrophilic chemoattractants, suggesting that acetylcholine may regulate macrophage responses. Therefore, expression and function of components of the non-neuronal cholinergic system in monocyte-macrophage cells was investigated.

RNA was isolated from monocytes, monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs), lung and alveolar macrophages from nonsmokers, smokers and COPD patients, and expression of the high-affinity choline transporter, choline acetyltransferase, vesicular acetylcholine transporter and muscarinic receptors (M1–M5) ascertained using real-time PCR. M2and M3receptor expression was confirmed using immunocytochemistry. Release of interleukin (IL)-8, IL-6 and leukotriene (LT)B4were measured by ELISA or EIA.

All monocyte-macrophage cells expressed mRNA for components of the non-neuronal cholinergic system. Lung macrophages expressed significantly more M1mRNA compared with monocytes, and both lung macrophages and alveolar macrophages expressed the highest levels of M3mRNA. Expression of M2and M3protein was confirmed in MDMs and lung macrophages. Carbachol stimulated release of LTB4from lung macrophages (buffer 222.3±75.1versuscarbachol 1,118±622.4 pg·mL−1; n=15, p<0.05) but not IL-6 or IL-8. LTB4release was attenuated by the M3antagonist, 1,1-dimethyl-4-diphenylacetoxypiperidinium iodide (4-DAMP; half maximal effective concentration 5.2±2.2 nM; n=9).

Stimulation of macrophage M3receptors promotes release of LTB4, suggesting that anti-muscarinic agents may be anti-inflammatory.
Intermittent recruitment with high-frequency oscillation/tracheal gas insufflation in acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Mentzelopoulos S.D. , Malachias S. , Zintzaras E. , Kokkoris S. , Zakynthinos E. , Makris D. , Magira E. , Markaki V. , Roussos C. , Zakynthinos S.G.
Published: September 2011

In acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), recruitment sessions of high-frequency oscillation (HFO) and tracheal gas insufflation (TGI) with short-lasting recruitment manoeuvres (RMs) may improve oxygenation and enable reduction of subsequent conventional mechanical ventilation (CMV) pressures. We determined the effect of adding HFO-TGI sessions to lung-protective CMV on early/severe ARDS outcome.

We conducted a prospective clinical trial, subdivided into a first single-centre period and a second two-centre period. We enrolled 125 (first period, n=54) patients with arterial oxygen tension (Pa,O2)/inspiratory oxygen fraction (FI,O2) of <150 mmHg for >12 consecutive hours at an end-expiratory pressure of ≥8 cmH2O. Patients were randomly assigned to an HFO-TGI group (receiving HFO-TGI sessions with RMs, interspersed with lung-protective CMV; n=61) or CMV group (receiving lung-protective CMV and RMs; n=64). The primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge.

Pre-enrolment ventilation duration was variable. During days 1–10 post-randomisation,Pa,O2/FI,O2, oxygenation index, plateau pressure and respiratory compliance were improved in the HFO-TGI groupversusthe CMV group (p<0.001 for group×time). Within days 1–60, the HFO-TGI group had more ventilator-free daysversusthe CMV group (median (interquartile range) 31.0 (0.0–42.0)versus0.0 (0.0–23.0) days; p<0.001), and more days without respiratory, circulatory, renal, coagulation and liver failure (p≤0.003). Survival to hospital discharge was higher in the HFO-TGI groupversusthe CMV group (38 (62.3%) out of 61versus23 (35.9%) out of 64 subjects; p=0.004).

Intermittent recruitment with HFO-TGI and RMs may improve survival in early/severe ARDS.
Respiratory health and endotoxin: associations and modification byCD14/-260 genotype
Authors: Bakolis I. , Doekes G. , Heinrich J. , Zock J.P. , Heederik D. , Kogevinas M. , Guerra S. , Norbäck D. , Ramasamy A. , Nevalainen A. , Svanes C. , Chen C.M. , Verlato G. , Olivieri M. , Castro-Giner F. , Jarvis D.
Published: September 2011

Exposure to endotoxin has been associated with increased respiratory symptoms and decrements in lung function in occupational settings but little is known about the health effects of domestic exposure in adults. Here, we describe the association of respiratory disease, immunoglobulin (Ig)E sensitisation, bronchial reactivity and lung function with mattress endotoxin levels in adults, and determine whether these associations are modified by polymorphisms inCD14.

Endotoxin levels in mattress dust from a population-based sample of 972 adults were measured. Associations were examined using generalised linear mixed models, adjusting for individual and household confounders. Effect modification of these associations byCD14/-260 (rs2569190) was assessed.

Mattress endotoxin levels varied from 0.1 to 402.6 EU·mg−1. Although there was no overall association of lung function with endotoxin exposure, there was evidence that the association of forced expiratory volume in 1 s and forced vital capacity with endotoxin was modified byCD14/-260 genotype (p-value for interaction 0.005 and 0.013, respectively). There was no evidence that symptoms, IgE sensitisation or bronchial reactivity were associated with mattress endotoxin levels.

In this large epidemiological study of adults, there was no evidence that mattress endotoxin level was associated with respiratory symptoms or IgE sensitisation but the association of lung function with endotoxin levels may be modified byCD14genotype.
Pulmonary infections in HIV-infected patients: an update in the 21st century
Authors: Benito N. , Moreno A. , Miro J.M. , Torres A.
Published: September 2011

From the first descriptions of HIV/AIDS, the lung has been the site most frequently affected by the disease. Most patients develop a pulmonary complication during the history of HIV infection, mainly of infectious aetiology.

Important changes in the epidemiology of HIV-related pulmonary infections have occurred. Overall, prescription ofPneumocystis jiroveciiprophylaxis and the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) are the main causes.

Currently, the most frequent diagnosis in developed countries is bacterial pneumonia, especially pneumococcal pneumonia, the second most frequent cause isPneumocystispneumonia and the third is tuberculosis. However, in Africa, tuberculosis could be the most common pulmonary complication of HIV.

Pulmonary infections remain one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in these patients, and the first cause of hospital admission in the HAART era. Achieving an aetiological diagnosis of pulmonary infection in these patients is important due to its prognostic consequences.
Efficient activation of T cells by human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (HMDCs) pulsed with Coxiella burnetii outer membrane protein Com1 but not by HspB-pulsed HMDCs
Authors: Wang Ying , Xiong Xiaolu , Wu Deping , Wang Xile , Wen Bohai
Published: September 2011

Background

Coxiella burnetii is an obligate intracellular bacterium and the etiologic agent of Q fever; both coxiella outer membrane protein 1 (Com1) and heat shock protein B (HspB) are its major immunodominant antigens. It is not clear whether Com1 and HspB have the ability to mount immune responses against C. burnetii infection.

Results

The recombinant proteins Com1 and HspB were applied to pulse human monocyte-derived dendritic cells (HMDCs), and the pulsed HMDCs were used to stimulate isogenic T cells. Com1-pulsed HMDCs expressed substantially higher levels of surface molecules (CD83, CD40, CD80, CD86, CD54, and CD58) and a higher level of interleukin-12 than HspB-pulsed HMDCs. Moreover, Com1-pulsed HMDCs induced high-level proliferation and activation of CD4+ and CD8+ cells, which expressed high levels of T-cell activation marker CD69 and inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ and TNF-α. In contrast, HspB-pulsed HMDCs were unable to induce efficient T-cell proliferation and activation.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that Com1-pulsed HMDCs are able to induce efficient T-cell proliferation and drive T cells toward Th1 and Tc1 polarization; however, HspB-pulsed HMDCs are unable to do so. Unlike HspB, Com1 is a protective antigen, which was demonstrated by the adoptive transfer of Com1-pulsed bone marrow dendritic cells into naive BALB/c mice.
Transcriptomic analysis of the zebrafish inner ear points to growth hormone mediated regeneration following acoustic trauma
Authors: Schuck Julie B , Sun Huifang , Penberthy W Todd , Cooper Nigel GF , Li Xiaohong , Smith Michael E
Published: September 2011

Background

Unlike mammals, teleost fishes are capable of regenerating sensory inner ear hair cells that have been lost following acoustic or ototoxic trauma. Previous work indicated that immediately following sound exposure, zebrafish saccules exhibit significant hair cell loss that recovers to pre-treatment levels within 14 days. Following acoustic trauma in the zebrafish inner ear, we used microarray analysis to identify genes involved in inner ear repair following acoustic exposure. Additionally, we investigated the effect of growth hormone (GH) on cell proliferation in control zebrafish utricles and saccules, since GH was significantly up-regulated following acoustic trauma.

Results

Microarray analysis, validated with the aid of quantitative real-time PCR, revealed several genes that were highly regulated during the process of regeneration in the zebrafish inner ear. Genes that had fold changes of ≥ 1.4 andP-values ≤ 0.05 were considered significantly regulated and were used for subsequent analysis. Categories of biological function that were significantly regulated included cancer, cellular growth and proliferation, and inflammation. Of particular significance, a greater than 64-fold increase in growth hormone (gh1) transcripts occurred, peaking at 2 days post-sound exposure (dpse) and decreasing to approximately 5.5-fold by 4 dpse. Pathway Analysis software was used to reveal networks of regulated genes and showed how GH affected these networks. Subsequent experiments showed that intraperitoneal injection of salmon growth hormone significantly increased cell proliferation in the zebrafish inner ear. Many other gene transcripts were also differentially regulated, including heavy and light chain myosin transcripts, both of which were down-regulated following sound exposure, and major histocompatability class I and II genes, several of which were significantly regulated on 2 dpse.

Conclusions

Transcripts for GH, MHC Class I and II genes, and heavy- and light-chain myosins, as well as many others genes, were differentially regulated in the zebrafish inner ear following overexposure to sound. GH injection increased cell proliferation in the inner ear of non-sound-exposed zebrafish, suggesting that GH could play an important role in sensory hair cell regeneration in the teleost ear.
Phase II study of weekly paclitaxel and capecitabine in patients with metastatic or recurrent esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yun Tak , Han Ji-Youn , Lee Jin Soo , Choi Hyun Lee , Kim Hyae Young , Nam Byung-Ho , Kim Heung Tae
Published: September 2011

Background

This phase II study assessed the response rate and toxicity profile of weekly paclitaxel and capecitabine in patients with metastatic or recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus (SCCE)

Methods

Patients with histologically confirmed SCCE were treated with paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 intravenously on days 1 and 8 plus capecitabine 900 mg/m2 orally twice a day on days 1-14. Treatment cycles were repeated every 3 weeks until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

Results

Between 2006 and 2009, 32 patients were enrolled. Twelve patients were chemotherapy-naïve. Twenty patients had received prior chemotherapy including platinum-based regimens. Patients received a median of 5 cycles of treatment (range, 1-12). The response rate was 75% (95%CI; 50.5~99.5%) in the first-line and 45% (95%CI; 26.9~73.1%) in the second-line. With a median follow-up of 20.7 months, median progression-free survival was 5.2 months (95% CI, 4.0 to 6.4) for all patients and median overall survival (OS) was 11.7 months (95% CI, 5.5 to 18.0) for all patients. The median OS was 14.3 months (95% CI, 10.6 to 18.0) for patients receiving therapy as 1st line and 8.4 months (95% CI, 6.6 to 10.1) for those receiving as 2nd-line therapy. Grade 3/4 neutropenia was observed in 53.3% of the patients, which was the most common cause of dose reduction. G3 non-hematologic toxicity included stomatitis (9.4%), asthenia (6.3%), and hand-foot skin reaction (3.1%).

Conclusions

Weekly paclitaxel and capecitabine is a highly active and well-tolerated regimen in patients with metastatic or recurrent SCCE in the first-line as well as second-line setting.
Nanopatterning on silicon surface using atomic force microscopy with diamond-like carbon (DLC)-coated Si probe
Authors: Jiang Xiaohong , Wu Guoyun , Zhou Jingfang , Wang Shujie , Tseng Ampere A , Du Zuliang
Published: September 2011

Atomic force microscope (AFM) equipped with diamond-like carbon (DLC)-coated Si probe has been used for scratch nanolithography on Si surfaces. The effect of scratch direction, applied tip force, scratch speed, and number of scratches on the size of the scratched geometry has been investigated. The size of the groove differs with scratch direction, which increases with the applied tip force and number of scratches but decreases slightly with scratch speed. Complex nanostructures of arrays of parallel lines and square arrays are further fabricated uniformly and precisely on Si substrates at relatively high scratch speed. DLC-coated Si probe has the potential to be an alternative in AFM-based scratch nanofabrication on hard surfaces.
Conversion of deoxynivalenol to 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol in barley-derived fuel ethanol co-products with yeast expressing trichothecene 3-O-acetyltransferases
Authors: Khatibi Piyum A , Montanti Justin , Nghiem Nhuan P , Hicks Kevin B , Berger Greg , Brooks Wynse S , Griffey Carl A , Schmale David G
Published: September 2011

Background

The trichothecene mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) may be concentrated in distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS; a co-product of fuel ethanol fermentation) when grain containing DON is used to produce fuel ethanol. Even low levels of DON (≤ 5 ppm) in DDGS sold as feed pose a significant threat to the health of monogastric animals. New and improved strategies to reduce DON in DDGS need to be developed and implemented to address this problem. Enzymes known as trichothecene 3-O- acetyltransferases convert DON to 3-acetyldeoxynivalenol (3ADON), and may reduce its toxicity in plants and animals.

Results

Two Fusarium trichothecene 3-O- acetyltransferases (FgTRI101 and FfTRI201) were cloned and expressed in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) during a series of small-scale ethanol fermentations using barley (Hordeum vulgare). DON was concentrated 1.6 to 8.2 times in DDGS compared with the starting ground grain. During the fermentation process, FgTRI101 converted 9.2% to 55.3% of the DON to 3ADON, resulting in DDGS with reductions in DON and increases in 3ADON in the Virginia winter barley cultivars Eve, Thoroughbred and Price, and the experimental line VA06H-25. Analysis of barley mashes prepared from the barley line VA04B-125 showed that yeast expressing FfTRI201 were more effective at acetylating DON than those expressing FgTRI101; DON conversion for FfTRI201 ranged from 26.1% to 28.3%, whereas DON conversion for FgTRI101 ranged from 18.3% to 21.8% in VA04B-125 mashes. Ethanol yields were highest with the industrial yeast strain Ethanol Red®, which also consumed galactose when present in the mash.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the potential of using yeast expressing a trichothecene 3-O-acetyltransferase to modify DON during commercial fuel ethanol fermentation.
Evaluation of prognostic and predictive value of microtubule associated protein tau in two independent cohorts
Authors: Baquero Maria T , Lostritto Karen , Gustavson Mark D , Bassi Kimberly A , Appia Franck , Camp Robert L , Molinaro Annette M , Harris Lyndsay N , Rimm David L
Published: September 2011

Introduction

Microtubule associated proteins (MAPs) endogenously regulate microtubule stabilization and have been reported as prognostic and predictive markers for taxane response. The microtubule stabilizer, MAP-tau, has shown conflicting results. We quantitatively assessed MAP-tau expression in two independent breast cancer cohorts to determine prognostic and predictive value of this biomarker.

Methods

MAP-tau expression was evaluated in the retrospective Yale University breast cancer cohort (n = 651) using tissue microarrays and also in the TAX 307 cohort, a clinical trial randomized for TAC versus FAC chemotherapy (n = 140), using conventional whole tissue sections. Expression was measured using the AQUA method for quantitative immunofluorescence. Scores were correlated with clinicopathologic variables, survival, and response to therapy.

Results

Assessment of the Yale cohort using Cox univariate analysis indicated an improved overall survival (OS) in tumors with a positive correlation between high MAP-tau expression and overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.691, 95% CI = 0.489-0.974; P = 0.004). Kaplan Meier analysis showed 10-year survival for 65% of patients with high MAP-tau expression compared to 52% with low expression (P = .006). In TAX 307, high expression was associated with significantly longer median time to tumor progression (TTP) regardless of treatment arm (33.0 versus 23.4 months, P = 0.010) with mean TTP of 31.2 months. Response rates did not differ by MAP-tau expression (P = 0.518) or by treatment arm (P = 0.584).

Conclusions

Quantitative measurement of MAP-tau expression has prognostic value in both cohorts, with high expression associated with longer TTP and OS. Differences by treatment arm or response rate in low versus high MAP-tau groups were not observed, indicating that MAP-tau is not associated with response to taxanes and is not a useful predictive marker for taxane-based chemotherapy.
Lentivirus-mediated expression of cDNA and shRNA slows degeneration in retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Tosi Joaquin , Sancho-Pelluz Javier , Davis Richard J , Hsu Chun Wei , Wolpert Kyle V , Sengillo Jesse D , Lin Chyuan-Sheng , Tsang Stephen H
Published: September 2011

Mutations in Pde6b lead to high levels of signaling molecules cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and Ca2+, which ultimately result in photoreceptor cell death in certain forms of retinitis pigmentosa (RP). The level of cGMP, which is controlled by opposing activities of guanylate cyclase (GUCY) and photoreceptor phosphodiesterase-6 (PDE6), regulates the opening of cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channels [CNG] and thereby controls Ca2+ influx into the outer segments. Using a lentiviral gene therapy approach, we have previously shown that degeneration can be temporarily slowed either by introducing wild-type PDE6 β or knocking down expression of GUCY2E and CNGA1 in photoreceptors of Pde6b H620Q, a mouse model for RP. Rescue was transient with either approach. Therefore, we tested a novel combination therapy using bipartite lentiviral vectors designed to both introduce wild-type PDE6 β expression and knockdown GUCY2E or CNGA1. Immunoblot analysis shows simultaneous increases in PDE6 β and decreases in GUCY2E or CNGA1 in retinas transduced by the vectors, indicating successful transduction. In Pde6b H620Q mutants, we observe rescue of photoreceptor function and an increase in photoreceptor rows as compared with untreated controls. However, no evidence of prolonged rescue beyond the limit of the previously tested single therapy was observed.
Immune restoration Klebsiella lymphadenitis
Authors: Gohar A
Published: September 2011

A subset of HIV-infected patients who receive antiretroviral therapy (ART) develop immune restoration syndrome. A case of immune restoration Klebsiella lymphadenitis is described. Fine needle aspiration cytology remains a useful investigative tool in the post-ART era, particularly in the diagnosis of persistent generalized lymphadenopathy, infection and malignancy of the lymph nodes.
Voluntary counselling and testing sites as a source of sentinel information on HIV prevalence in a concentrated epidemic: a pilot project from Indonesia
Authors: Guy R , Mustikawati D E , Wijaksono D B , Nugraihini N , Priohutomo S , Silitonga N , Kaldor J M
Published: September 2011

A new system for monitoring HIV voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) outcomes was established in 2007 at seven VCT clinics in Jakarta and Bali, Indonesia. Counsellors collected demographic and risk information from VCT clients. Logistic regression was used to determine factors associated with HIV infection. In 15 months, HIV prevalence in 5569 new clients without HIV symptoms was 63.3% in injecting drug users (IDUs) ( n = 783), 7.7% in female sex workers ( n = 1437), 31.6% among transgender people ( n = 395), 9.3% in men who have sex with men ( n = 268), 13.5% in clients of sex workers ( n = 643), 21.1% in people with high-risk partners ( n = 569) and 3.2% in other VCT clients ( n = 822). Among IDUs, being older, tested though outreach, tested due to being ‘at risk’ and having injected for one or more years were independently associated with HIV infection. This network confirmed high HIV prevalence among IDUs and transgender people. HIV prevalence estimates were consistent with serosurveys.